Skin Care Archives | Page 13 of 14

But I'm Sensitive To Sunscreen…

August 12, 2014

Sunscreen is perhaps one of the most, if not the most, important ingredient to guard against aging and more importantly, skin cancer. However, I find that it is the skincare product most people skimp on.

“I’m sensitive to sunscreen,” or “It stings my eyes after a while,” are common responses as to why sunscreen isn’t used on a daily basis-if at all. While I too have suffered that wrath of a sunscreen that has seeped into my eyes (oh the stinging sensation!), there are plenty of options out there that won’t work against you. Mineral sunscreens,in the form of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, may be your best bet. The reason? Whereas chemical sunscreens absorb the sun’s rays and release them as heat, mineral or physical sunscreens sit on skin and reflect UVA and UVB rays, meaning less irritation. Here’s a list of some physical sunscreens you may want to look into.

www.colorscience.com $52 and refills $25-$30

Colorscience Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen Brush SPF 30

Boasting the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Approval, this mineral sunscreen comes in a few select shades and finishes, making sunscreen reapplication easy. Also worth checking out from this brand: Mineral Eyescreen SPF 30.

www.coolasuncare.com $36

Coola Face SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint

Formulated with shea butter and evening primrose oil that help retain moisture and rosehip oil which is rich in antioxidant vitamin C. Remember that antioxidants like vitamin C and E work synergistically with sunscreen.

www.drugstore.com $14.95; Whole Foods

Jason Mineral Natural Sunscreen, SPF 30

This sunscreen is fragrance free-great news if you are sensitive/allergic to fragrances-and includes calming aloe vera, chamomile and green tea.

www.target.com $8.99

Alba Botanica Very Emollient Sunscreen Mineral Protection Fragrance Free Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Also fragrance free, this sunscreen provides antioxidant support from vitamin E and grapeseed oil and is gluten and paraben free.

www.target.com $23.99

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid, SPF 50 Face

An Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner, this paraben and fragrance free sunscreen has an ultra-light matte finish that won’t leave behind a white cast on your face. It features Cell-Ox Shield technology which is comprised of physical sun filters for improved protection and a powerful antioxidant complex to protect from free radicals.

Once you find a sunscreen that works for you, it’s vital to remember to reapply every two hours or so, especially when you’re outdoors.

Have a favorite mineral sunscreen you don’t see listed here? Feel free to share!

Hands of Time

July 29, 2014

“There are years that ask questions and years that answer.”

– Zora Neale Hurston, Their Eyes Were Watching God

This quote has stuck with me since my days as an undergrad English major, while taking a class in the Harlem Renaissance . Albeit this quote was not aesthetically intended, my mind was always revolving around this concept, particularly on how it can tie into skincare. How? Simple. Time will answer the question as to how well you took care of your skin.

Most of us spend so much time focusing on taking care of our face but forget about other telling signs: our hands, neck and décolleté, These overlooked areas are also prone to sun spots, fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration and redness. If you have inadvertently neglected these areas, here are some solutions to rectify these issues.

Sunscreen /Targeted Creams

Inarguably the least expensive and easiest to use is broad spectrum sunscreen. When we are driving, UV rays penetrate the glass causing damage to our hands and décolleté leading to pigmentation later on. Extending your sunscreen application to these areas (which we should already be doing anyway) will help.

Certain creams can also help with the appearance if sun damage is minimal. PCA Skin Perfecting Neck and Décolleté and Revison Skincare Nectifirm are examples of great products to look into.

Microdermabrasion/Chemical Peels

Exfoliation treatments such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels can provide improvements in the color, tone and texture of treated areas and typically don’t require much downtime.

Other Options

For skin that has extensive damage, a visit to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon would suit best where they could perform IPL treatments, lasers (Fraxel, Active FX or Thermage), Botox or surgery, depending on the results you are looking for.

Remember that prevention is always the best rule to adhere to and will save you time and money in the long run.

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow!

July 17, 2014

With different methods of (temporary) hair removal, it might be hard to decide which route to go. The two categories that comprise temporary hair removal are depilation and epilation. Which is the best way to go? Well, it boils down to your preference, results and, believe it or not, has more to do with your health than you think.

Depilation

Depilatory products remove hair at or near the level of the skin. For the most part, hair will usually grow back within a couple of days,but since everyone’s hair growth pattern is different, it may take about week. Shaving and chemical depilatories are examples of depilation.

Shaving

Shaving is still one of the most common used methods in hair removal in that it is cheaper and easier. Utilizing a sharp razor and shaving cream/lotion can result in less irritation, nicks and cuts.

Depilatories

Depilatories, something like Veet or Nair, are sometimes preferred by those who may be sensitive to razors or have resistant, coarse hair. They work by dissolving hair at the skin level using chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, thioglycolic acid or, calcium thioglycolate. A small patch test should be performed before a full application as chemical depilatories can result in skin irritations, rashes and allergies.

Epilation

Epilation is the process of removing hair from the follicle meaning you pull hair out from the root. Tweezing, waxing and sugaring fall into this section. It takes about three weeks or more for hair to grow back.

Tweezing

Tweezers are used to pull hair out by the root one at a time. Tweezers can be used on eyebrows or on remaining hairs after waxing. Although the process is slower, it can be an alternative for those sensitive to waxing hair on their face.

Threading

In threading, a piece of cotton thread is twisted and rolled along the surface of skin, entwining the hair in the thread and lifting it out of the follicle. Skin can get a little red and sore but unlike waxing, majpr irritation is avoided as the top layer of dead skin is not stripped off in the process.

Sugaring

Sugaring can be used on those individuals who have sensitive skin or who are sensitive to waxes. Sugar and lemon are mixed together and heated into a honey-type consistency, which is then molded into a ball and pressed onto the skin and quickly stripped away. Unlike waxing, it can be removed in the direction of the hair growth, which is less irritating than waxing and the sugar paste adheres only to the hair.

Waxing

Waxing is the most frequently used epilator as it takes hair longer to grow back, usually 4-6 weeks, and the skin feels smoother without the stubble. Depending on the service being done, either hard wax or soft wax will be used and the waxes are made primarily of resins and beeswax. It’s faster than tweezing or threading as larger areas can be covered and adds a minor exfoliation effect. However, if you have a low pain threshold, this may not be the best option for you.

Look Out For…

Perhaps the most important things to look for or consider aside from knowing a brief description of the processes themselves are the following:

Always make sure the location you visit is clean. Instruments used should be properly disinfected and stored away.

If you’re getting a waxing service, ask about their double-dipping policy. For hygienic and health purposes, a new waxing stick/spatula should be used each time the wax is applied to your body. Every. Single. Time. If that is not the case, run far away!

If you:

use Retin-A
take Accutane,
have had recent chemical peels, laser treatment or microdermabrasion
use products that contain AHAs or BHAs or retinol
have varicose veins
take high blood pressure medications
have any allergies
used tanning beds (not advisable)

please disclose this information in your consultation card and/ or inform the skin therapist. Certain medications can make you bruise easily and can pull your skin off! My skin has lifted before and trust me, it’s painful and takes a while to heal. Your safety is our priority!

Never discontinue your medications without consulting your physician first.

Infected skin- herpes simplex, acne, rashes or inflamed skin-or open lesions is a contraindication to any treatment. Wait until the breakout is clear.

Avoid sun exposure, exfoliation, excessive heat (hot tubs, suanas) for at least 24-48 hours after waxing.

I hope this information gives you some insight on what to expect when looking into hair removal services. Which method do you prefer and why?

Summer Leaving You Looking Like A Lobster?

July 15, 2014

Days spent at the beach or by the pool is one reason we love summer but sometimes this enjoyment renders one caveat: leaving us lobster hued. Sunburns can be painful and in some cases be accompanied by blisters. Note: If you have blisters and severe swelling, seek medical attention immediately.

But once your sunburn heals and the peeling has stopped, all is good right? Not really. Sunburns can double your chance of developing melanoma later in life but it may take several years for the damage to show up.

So what is a sunburn and how do we get relief?

Simply put, your skin turning red is an indication that your skin has been severely damaged due to extreme UV exposure causing blood vessels to dilate. The skin starts to lose moisture and hydration causing a feeling of tightness. Although our body can cope with minimal amounts of sun damage, the danger happens when our DNA becomes damaged and its repair process is compromised, which can lead to skin cancer.

Application

Application and reapplication of sunscreen is crucial. Ensure you are applying enough- a teaspoon for the face and one ounce shot-glass size for the body- and reapply about every two hours.

Hydration

Your body is overheated so it’s important to drink a lot of water.

Skim Milk Cold Compress

A cold compress or cloths soaked in skim milk can relieve pain-skim milk is the preferred choice because it does not have any fat content. The protein found in milk binds to the burned skin to soothe the pain.

OTC Remedies

Aspirin or ibuprofen can slow down the inflammatory reaction.

Application of a 1% hydrocortisone cream may help with sunburn pain and swelling.

Simple DIY Remedy

Plain cold yogurt can be used on sunburned areas. Leave on for 10-20 minutes, then rinse off.

Final Say

Until your skin heals, stay away from the sun, heat, friction and excessive exercise and do not pick at loose skin-it can scar! Avoid exfoliating and keep your skincare regimen simple. The key is to soothe and calm inflammation.

Disclaimer: The contents on this website, and any related links, are provided for general informational purposes and should NOT be considered medical advice. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Please consult a healthcare provider if you have any questions about a particular health condition.

My Current Favorite Exfoliators!

July 8, 2014

Exfoliating is a great and easy way to achieve a healthy complexion and to improve texture of skin. Here are some exfoliators that have found their way (and stayed!) in my skincare routine.

Sephora, $85; travel-size, $22

Kate Somerville Exfolikate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

One of my favorite products that I find myself repurchasing every so often, this exfoliant is truly intense. As soon as you apply it, you immediately feel a tingly sensation and can feel your blood circulating thanks to the cinnamon, acids and enzymes found in here. I definitely have a glow after using it and my complexion feels (and looks) super soft. I tend to pick up the travel sized version of this at Sephora since it’s more wallet friendly and the tube lasts a good 3-4 months.

*For sensitive skin, there is Kate Somerville Exfolikate Gentle Exfoliating Treatment

Ulta, $52

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

I was introduced to this product in esthetic school and while it took me a while to warm up to it, once I learned how to correctly use it, I love it. First of all, this product is a rice-based powder that requires water to activate. You dispense a little bit of product onto wet hands and rub them together to form what becomes a creamy paste. Once you create the paste, you massage it over your face, leave it on for about a minute or so, and then rinse off. What’s great about this gentle but effective scrub is that you can mix it in with your cleanser to get that ‘deep’ clean feel.

Note* Although the name says Daily Microfoliant, I would use this no more than 3x per day as it can be too drying. Also, don’t leave this in your shower as you can end up with a clumpy mess.

reneerouleau.com, $46.50

Renee Rouleau BHA Clarifying Serum, $46.50

A new favorite that has found its way into my skincare routine, this exfoliating serum is especially great if you have textural concerns. I tend to get little whiteheads all over my forehead and this blend of lactic, salicylic and glycolic acid has significantly reduced them-people have actually noticed the smoother complexion! I stopped using it for a few weeks only to have the whiteheads develop again, so I know this particular product is what is making a difference. Unlike the other exfoliants featured here, this one is unique in that you leave it on overnight.

PCA Skin Representative/Dermstore.com, $25

PCA Skin Gentle Scrub, $25

If you have normal to dry skin and want something that is fragrance free, this would be an apt choice. Round beads that are suspended in a creamy base of aloe vera leaf juice, glycolic acid and jojoba seed oil gently polish away dead skin cells. Bonus: The bottle is 7 oz.

What is your favorite exfoliator?

You Want Me To Use An Acid On My Face?

July 3, 2014

Back when I was taking my esthetics course, or beauty school as some may recognize it, we had a department open house in which people were welcome to stop by and learn about the services we provided. We conducted a complimentary skin analysis and invited them to come back and experience a facial that would suit their skin needs. I remember one lady who asked me what I recommended for her combination skin to which I suggested a moisturizer or serum that contained hyaluronic acid.

The look of sheer horror she expressed followed by, “You want me to use an acid on my face?” is something I won’t forget. I quickly explained that this ingredient was nothing like the battery acid found in a car or those in chemical peels but rather an excellent way to introduce hydration into the skin- she looked relieved. Nevertheless, perhaps you’ve heard about this ingredient and thought the same thing so here’s the scoop on what makes this ingredient so coveted.

Who: Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

What it is: A glycosaminoglycan (GAG)/humectant that attracts moisture to your skin cells. It increases the water content in the epidermis by drawing moisture from surrounding air.

Where it’s found: HA is a substance that is naturally found in our bodies. It cushions and lubricates our joints, eyes and connective tissues.

Look for hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate in skincare ingredients. Popular fillers like Juvederm, Restylane and Perlane utilize HA as well.

Why it’s important: As we age, our natural production of HA declines. HA serves an important role in cell protection, lubrication and maintenance of connective tissue. It also helps retain moisture in skin since it can hold 1000 times its weight in water. Think of it like a drink of water for your skin. When your skin is dehydrated or dry, our complexion can look aged and feel tight.

How it affects the skin: HA gives turgor and elasticity to the skin. Increased water in the skin is the easiest way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, by plumping up fine lines and wrinkles. This leads to a more youthful appearance, making it a great anti-aging treatment. Because it is not an oil, it is virtually ideal f for all skin types, including acne.

Hyaluronic acid doesn’t sound that bad now after all, right?

Camping Guide 101!

June 26, 2014

School is out, summer is here and if you’re like my family, camping trips may soon make their way into your schedule. The outdoors can provide beautiful imagery, new perspectives, fresh air but also has some not so nice perks. Bugs attacking you from every angle or inadvertently providing a feast for neighboring critters is something I can do without. So whether you’re out on the road in an RV or truck/car, here are some suggestions on what to pack and some tips I learned along the way.

What To Pack

Mini First Aid Kit

Always a great item to have. You can pick up a few at your local dollar store for, well a dollar. Can’t beat that!

SPF Products

You’ll definitely want to take your broad spectrum sunscreen (make sure the cap is sealed tight- I learned this the hard way!), an eye cream with SPF (if you have one), and lip balm with SPF. Sunburn looks good on no one.

Travel Sized Bottles

You can take your cleanser, toner, moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner and bodywash in tiny bottles so you don’t have to lug huge bottles around, and in case they accidentally get left behind, no major loss there.

Unscented Towelettes/Unscented Baby Wipes

In case you don’t have access to a sink to wash your face, you can use these. A trick I used: I spritzed toner into a towelette and used it to remove the sunscreen, dirt and oil that accumulated throughout the day. Plus, they come in handy to wipe down surfaces, sticky/dirty hands, etc.

Mini Antibacterial Soap

Another good product to have when soap might not be readily available.

Medications

Make certain to pack your medication if you take any; there are little tiny plastic containers you can purchase to store them in. You might want to also keep Benadryl on hand in case of allergies and aspirin or ibuprofen. Some camping sites have small stores that provide these items but they tend to hike up the prices a bit.

Bug Repellent

My ‘perfume’ for the trip and a total life saver! There are also ones you can hang outside your tent- sorry bugs, you’ll need to find your victims elsewhere.

Warm Clothes

Regardless if the weather is super hot during the day, keep at least a jacket, an extra pair of socks, and pants to keep warm in case the temperatures decide to drop at night.

Tips

Do be sure to pack away any edible items lest you want to attract unwanted strangers. Trust me, animals can and will find a way to open bags and boxes. Store items in coolers or plastic containers and make sure to secure them.

Activities like hiking or fishing mean long periods of time out in the sun, so make sure to take along your sunscreen to reapply and prevent sunburn. Hats and sunglasses are great to take along too.

Keep hydrated to help control your heart rate and blood pressure as well as regulate your body temperature.

Nothing beats coming back from a day-long activity and firing up the grill to cook a delicious meal. One caveat? If you did get sunburned, the heat generated from the grill can further aggravate an already irritated complexion. Keep some aloe vera gel (and maybe some ibuprofen) handy if this is the case.

Camping or any other outdoor activity is always an adventure from making smores to setting up tents. Enjoy it, stay sun protected and safe, and embrace the experience- you’ll be home in no time.

What do you pack for your outdoor excursions?

Father's Day Skincare Gift Ideas!

June 12, 2014

Men’s skincare is too often overlooked but can make a world of a difference-and a great Father’s Day present! So weather you’re still looking for gift options or you’re a guy who wants to step up his skin health, take a glance at some of the options below!

$52; sephora.com; getjackblack.com

Jack Black Core Collection

I’ve purchased and gifted this set several times and it always seems to be a crowd-pleaser. This trio includes a facial cleanser, shaving lotion and face moisturizer with broad spectrum SPF 20. It’s fragrance and alcohol free and perfect for men who want a simplified routine.

$38, ulta.com

Dermalogica Shave System

This shaving kit includes two shaving creams (Pre-Shave Guard and Soothing Shave Cream) which can be used alone or together to help soften the beard. Other items included in this kit are Daily Clean Scrub, an exfoliating cleanser which helps minimize ingrown hairs; Post-Shave Balm, which helps control oil and reduces redness that can occur after shaving; and Daily Defense Block SPF 15 is a matte sunscreen.

$22, dermstore.com/ PCA Skin Representative

PCA Skin Total Face Wash Face & Body Cleanser

A 2-in-1 product for men on the go! This gentle foaming cleanser is formulated with lactic acid to exfoliate, moisturize, and help prevent ingrown hairs and also doubles as a body wash in one easy step. Antioxidant vitamin E improves the barrier function of the skin; soothing aloe, allantoin, and bisabolol help to calm skin; and tea tree oil provides antiseptic properties.

$48, sephora.com; $56 ulta.com

Anthony Logistics For Men The Essential Traveler Kit

This kit features an array of products that are perfect for those who travel or for those who want to get a feel for the products. The Glycolic Facial Cleanser exfoliates and loosens dead skin cells to achieve a closer shave; the Shave Cream calms the skin and includes anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects; All Purpose Facial Moisturizer contains antioxidants vitamin C to brighten skin and vitamin E to help nourish skin; Invigorating Rush Hair + Body Wash incorporates Pro Vitamin B5 which promotes tissue healing in skin and helps to retain moisture ; Advanced Formula Lip Balm SPF 25 Mint and White Tea soothes, protects and conditions lips.

$20, sephora.com; theartofshaving.com

The Art Of Shaving Alum Block- Unscented

If you’re prone to nicks and cuts, this may be a product to check out. The alum block helps stop bleeding from minor cuts and delivers antiseptic properties.

Have you tried any of these products? What did you think of them?

I am always looking for and researching new lines so if you have a skincare line you use and love, do share!

What's Aging You?

June 3, 2014

69 year-old truck driver whose left side of the face was exposed to the sun for 28 years.

By at least our 30’s, if not sooner, many of us start reaching for products that can help delay the aging effect. While aging is a natural part of life, if you’re seeing signs of premature wrinkles, take a look at this fact. 85% of skin aging is caused by how you live (i.e. sun exposure, pollution, unhealthy lifestyle).

Aging can be classified into two types: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic aging reflects genetic background and the passage of time; in other words, elements that are beyond our control. Extrinsic aging (considered to be preventable) is brought about by environmental or external factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and UV exposure.

Do you know which factor is responsible for expediting the aging process?

If you guessed the sun, you are correct (and have been reading my posts)!

By now you know the danger of excessive and unprotected UV exposure (skin cancer), but it also leads to photo-aging– a term used to describe the characteristic changes of sun induced skin.

Extrinsic, left; Intrinsic , right.

The image above depicts photo-aged skin (left) and chronological aged skin (right). See the dramatic difference?

Let’s take a look at how structurally these two pictures differ.

Protected From UV Damage and Extrinsic Elements

When age is caused by intrinsic forces, the skin has a thinned, smooth, clear, almost transparent apperance. There is also fine wrinkling, inelastic, saggy skin, increased dryness, slight flakiness, loss of underlying fat resulting in hollow cheeks and eye socket and a slowing of collagen and elastin production

Exposed To UV Damage and Other Extrinsic Elements

Aging caused by this will culminate in a thickened epidermis resulting in rough, leathery skin, telangiectasia (dilated blood vessels), yellow, sallow coloration and age spots. There is an increased risk of skin cancer and a degradation of collagen and elastin.

As you can see, how you will age is contingent on several factors, most of which are preventable. Sunscreen is and will continue to be one of the most powerful products in your skin care arsenal. The best news, it’s also the most cost effective!

Can Fat Help Dry Skin?

May 27, 2014

The dreaded F-word: fat.

Although many think fat-free is the way to go, if you find that not even topical ingredients help your dry skin, take a look at your diet. While fats are given a negative connotation, they are a crucial component of good health as it helps your body retain heat, lubricates the skin and assists in absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.

Not All Fats Are Created Equal

So does this mean you can overly indulge in french fries? Wishful thinking, but no. Fried foods don’t make the cut. However, the benefits you’ll reap from the good fats just may outweigh this notion and allow for the occasional treat.

Enter essential fatty acids (EFAs). EFAs are acids the body can’t manufacture on its own and therefore need to be obtained through our diet. EFAs are necessary for brain and body development, metabolism, and hair and skin growth. At a cellular level, EFAs are important because cell membranes hold water in, and the stronger they are, the better your skin cells can retain that moisture. A deficiency in EFAs can result in dermatitis (eczema), reduced barrier function, scaly skin and increased moisture loss.

EFA Types: Omega-3 and Omega-6.

Linoleic acid is an omega-6 that is used to make important hormones and maintains the lipid barrier of the skin. Linoleic acid is found in oils made from safflower, grapeseed, sunflower, corn, soybean, borage and flaxseed but is also found in raw nuts, seeds and legumes. *It’s important to note that high amounts of omega-6 can promote inflammation, so low amounts are key. The typical American diet has an excess of omega-6.

Alpha-linolenic acid is an omega-3 that is a popular nutrient for healthy skin and reduces inflammation. The Mediterranean diet is high in omega-3. Sources of omega-3 rich foods include salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, trout, cod, fish oil, walnuts, flax, pumpkin seeds and algae.

Dry skin, for the most part can be reversed with topical and ingested supplementation. However, ALWAYS consult a medical professional and/or registered dietitian before implementing any changes in your diet to verify there are no contraindications with certain medical conditions or medications.

Do you notice a difference in your skin with certain foods you eat or don’t eat? Do share!