Is your skin oily and blemish prone? Are you looking for a treatment to address the excess oils within your skin, prevent breakouts and help even skin tone? SkinCeuticals has THE serum to calm your skin woes.

Say hello to the Blemish & Age Defense Serum. This special oil-free formulation includes a blend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids along with 2% Dioic Acid. This serum can help to control the over production of oils within the skin, reduce P acnes bacteria, decongest pores, help prevent and treat hyperpigmentation, and reduce fine lines & wrinkles. Wow! You can address multiple skin concerns with only one product!. This serum can be used both day and night for best results after you cleanse/tone your skin. With all of the benefits listed above, who wouldn’t want to use one product for multi-beneficial results? I already have mine and now it’s your turn to take control of your skin.

Say adios to fine lines and stubborn acne in one swoop! A leader in skincare technology, Jan Marini just launched Duality! A revolutionary skin care product that addresses both adult acne and anti-aging. This innovate product combines two of the most effective ingredients that have previously been incompatible; retinol and benzoyl peroxide. The product’s unique dispensing design has dual chambers, one containing an anti-aging complex with peptides, antioxidants, and retinol and the other with 10% benzoyl peroxide. The combination of high active ingredients delivers serious anti-aging and breakout banishing results without irritation. This one-two punch helps to smooth, soften, and make your skin blemish free!

Make sure to enter into our GIVEAWAY on our Facebook page!

Breakouts are not just a pesky problem for young adults. More and more women suffer from adult acne often caused by a hormonal imbalance. SkinCeuticals, a leader in the skincare industry has recently launched their BioMedic LHA product line to help combat breakouts while also addressing signs of aging.

SkinCeuticals LHA product line consists of LHA Solution, LHA Cleansing Gel, and LHA Serum. These products are formulated with a triple combination of exfoliating agents to efficiently remove excess residue and dead skin cells. LHA, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid decongests pores, smoothes irregularities, and brightens skin. By eliminating dead surface cells you are helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines and reduce breakouts.

What SkinCeuticals product can’t you live without? We’d love to hear you feedback!

Lets be honest, one of the greatest perks of my job is the abundance of products I get to try. I’m like a kid in a candy shop when something new comes our way. Not only do I want to try any new products because I’m obsessed, but also so I can better educate our customers about the products we carry.

Now, this type of situation comes with its goods and its bads. The good? A seemingly endless supply of products at my disposal, doing at-home facials when I feel up for it, having a variety of gifts readily available and getting to try something new whenever I’m bored.

The bad? Products go bad before you get a chance to use them and the biggest downer of all… a random breakout caused by a product. When I jump back and forth from different products or use too many at once, my skin will tell me it’s had enough and punishes me. I guess I can’t say it’s “random” because it’s obvious why it happened… the greedy got to me… too many products at once. Sigh….So what to do now? Here’s a guide to all you over-users and abusers that love products as much as I do…

Step One: Purge and Purify

Action: You need to remove all the impurities. Therefore things are most likely going to get worse before they can get any better.

Recommended Product: Tracie Martyn Amla Purifying Cleanser

Step Two: Keep in Balance

Action: Using a toner will help keep your skin in check.

Recommended Product: Yonka Lotion PS Toner

Step Three: Treat

Action: Eliminate impurities, calm irritated skin and balance out the pH.

Recommended Product: iS Clinical Hydra-Cool Serum

Step Four: Hydrate

Action: Prevent moisture loss and seal in benefits of treatment product.

Recommended Product: MD Formulations Moisture Defense Antioxidant Lotion

We want to know – What’s your go-to acne treatment product? Leave us a comment below and share your favorites!

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“Backne” or Back Acne can be a very embarrassing condition to deal with. Taking your shirt off at the pool or in the gym showers to reveal red bumps, pimples, pustules, zits, cratering and pigmentation spots can be the last thing that you want to do. Backne tends to be more common in men due to hormonal changes during puberty, but can also occur during adulthood. The skin on your back tends to be thicker and the sebaceous (oil) glands are larger. Sweating and oil secretion along with dead skin cells and free radicals (dirt) can all clog the pores.

Contrary to popular belief acne is not caused by eating too much chocolate or junk food.  Some acne can be hormonal, some can be caused by genetics and some can be environmental (influences under our control.)

Here are some suggestions on how to control environmental influences and minimize or eliminate those embarrassing break outs. Try to wear light weight cotton t-shirts when you work out or when it’s hot and you’re going to sweat. Shower immediately after you’re done working out or outdoors sweating. Use a salicylic body wash like Menscience Daily Body Wash.

This product will help to remove the sweat, dirt and oil. It contains salicylic and glycolic acids that assist in cleaning out the pores and removing dead skin cells. When you shampoo and condition your hair be sure to thoroughly rinse your back area with warm water instead of hot water. Hot water on your back can cause your pores to open up more and not rinsing thoroughly can cause those open pores to absorb some of the chemicals in the shampoo and conditioner, causing more breakouts. When you step out of the shower, use a freshly laundered dry towel. Doing so will help you avoid reintroducing any bacteria to your freshly cleaned skin. Avoid direct sunlight while your acne is inflamed or healing. UVA and UVB rays can damage your irritated skin and cause pigmentation scarring.

If you have severe redness, inflammation, and hard bumps associated with your backne; see a dermatologist. You could have what is known as cystic acne or cystic nodular acne.  These are conditions that will need professional medical help.

Next time you take your shirt off; let’s have them notice your sexy chest and abs, not your backne!

Visit SkinStore.com for more great acne treatments.

When we consult with our customers, those that are acne prone often inquire about Accutane. Have we heard of it? What does it do? How does it work? Although we don’t carry Accutane (it’s a prescription) we’re well-versed on the product.

Accutane is a prescription medication made for the treatment of severe acne, especially cystic under-the-skin, painful, scarring type of acne. Accutane uses a derivative of vitamin A (similar to that found in our bloodstream) in a very high dose. Most Accutane courses last for 4-6 months. While taking Accutane a patient may experience severe dryness of the lips, nasal passages, and skin. Side effects also include nose bleeds, thinning of the hair, increased sensitivity to sun, irritation of eyes, joint and muscle pains and in some rare cases blurred vision and depression. During Accutane treatment blood tests are necessary to monitor liver health. It is not safe to drink alcoholic beverages while on Accutane. The most serious side effect of Accutane is the possibility of serious birth defects, so women who are pregnant, nursing or trying to become pregnant should not use Accutane.

If you suffer from serious acne and topical products do not help, we recommend consulting with your dermatologist to see if Accutane may be right for you. If you choose to take Accutane make sure to supplement your diet with healthy essential fatty acids, use sunscreen on a daily basis, and keep your skin hydrated by drinking lots of water and using a nourishing moisturizer.

Accutane not for you? Visit SkinStore for a large assortment of acne treatment products.

If you have blemish prone or problematic skin, then you know that finding the best acne products suited towards your skin is key! There are many products available, ranging from over the counter to doctor prescribed medications. They can be oral or topical and use numerous different ingredients to achieve desired results. This is a run down of the key acne fighting ingredients used in the most popular prevention and treatment products available on the market to date. We will start off with the most commonly known ingredients; Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid.

Benzoyl Peroxide has been proven as one of the most effective over the counter antibacterial medications used to treat acne. It draws oxygen to the skin making it difficult for bacteria to thrive. It also can help to rid the follicle of excess dead skin cells. This in turn will decrease pore blockage or the clogging that can occur in your pores.

Salicylic Acid is another ingredient found in common acne treatment products. Its main function is to kill off bacteria and also help to clear out congested pores. The acid is a beta hydroxy acid and is also used in different exfoliating products as it assists to shed off dead skin and offers anti-inflammatory properties. Also look for products containing Willow Bark Extract which is the natural form of salicylic acid.

Zinc is used in different acne products due to its assistance with regulating the production of oils and helping in keeping the pores clear. It also has properties which assist to help fight the bacteria that causes acne.

Glycolic Acid is another well know ingredient used in skin care products, it penetrates deep beneath the damaged upper layers of the skin to release the bond which holds the dead skin to the surface. In short, this ingredient is used to exfoliate the skin, help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin tone.

Mandelic Acid is an ingredient becoming more popular to current acne treatment products. This ingredient uses a slower, more even penetration into the skin which can be gentler for people with delicate skin or sensitive skin conditions. Mandelic acid is a very powerful alpha hydroxy acid which smooths away dry skin and offers anti-inflammatory benefits, as well as antibacterial benefits. This ingredient is also used to reduce fine lines or wrinkles and can help lighten different pigmentation issues.

Sulfur has been used for a very long time in acne products. It’s been recorded that it has been used to treat different skin concerns such as dandruff, warts and even dermatitis. When applying this ingredient to the skin, it causes the skins surface to dry and peel. It will help reduce oil production, prevent pore blockage, and assist in healing properties.

Hopefully this key ingredient list will help aid you in your search for acne treatment products beneficial to you!

Find many acne treatment products at SkinStore.com.

From the ingenious minds of leading cosmetic and skincare specialists, Cover FX was born. Conceived with the intention of becoming the foundation authority, Lee Graff, the co-creator and President of Cover FX developed a makeup that effectively camouflages major skin imperfections with added therapeutic benefits.

Graff has been a corrective makeup specialist for over 20 years at a leading Canadian CosMedic Clinic, working exclusively with rosacea, acne, scars, and vitiligo patients. Cover FX was created to match a variety of skin tones, be tolerated by even the most sensitive skin, affordable to the everyday consumer, and have a beautiful naturally looking finish.

As the foundation authority, Cover FX is dedicated to achieving a flawless makeup application from beginning to end. If you’re new to the line, we suggest trying The Big Cover Up kit, their 3 step essentials to seamless foundation. The 7 piece kit includes Skin Prep FX Nourishing Foundation Primer and Anti-Aging Serum, Cover FX Total Coverage Cream Foundation (3 shades), Setting FX Translucent Setting Powder, Foundation Brush, and an instructional DVD.

Makeup experts agree that every foundation application should start with a great primer. Skin Prep FX Nourishing Foundation Primer and Anti-Aging Serum is a smoothing, hydrating foundation primer that reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and large pores. It is enriched with peptides, vitamins, and hyaluronic acid to help combat the signs of aging.

One of the biggest dilemmas we face with foundation is finding the perfect color. Whose skin really matches a pre-made color straight from the bottle? It’s either too light or too dark or the wrong tone. Or when you’ve finally found the perfect shade, it’s soon to be discontinued entirely. Cover FX addresses this issue, The Big Cover Up kit includes 3 coordinating shades to blend together for the perfect match.

Cover FX Total Coverage Cream Foundation is a 2-in-1 concealer and foundation. It provides full coverage for hard to conceal imperfections like sun damage, acne, and redness. The foundation is suitable for all skin types and imparts a natural dewy finish. It’s also non-comedogenic and has a zero skin irritancy score for skin sensitivity.

The finishing touch of the 3 step essentials is Cover FX Loose Mineral Setting Powder. To set your makeup, simply dust on a touch of translucent setting powder. This imparts a flawless finish with light defusing pigments. Your skin will appear smoother and more radiant. It also helps to prevent color and foundation transfer. A setting powder extends the wear of your makeup and locks makeup in place all day.

If you’ve struggled to find the perfect foundation for years to no avail, your search is over! Cover FX will give you the confidence of a beautiful even complexion.

Check out our Facebook Cover FX Giveaway for SkinStore Fans!

Giveaway valid 6/1/2010 – 6/15/2010. See details here.

As of 6/16/10 Giveaway has ended. Winners have been notified and announced. Thank you to all who participated.

Each of us at some point in our lifetime has had to deal with the trauma of acne and breakouts. They happen in the most conspicuous area, our face, and occur at the most convenient times, like just before a date or special photograph opportunity!

Most men experience acne at an earlier age, early to late teens, whereas most women begin to experience acne in their late teens to early twenties. There are infinite rumors about what causes breakouts, how to prevent them, and how to treat them, not to mention the unlimited amount of over the counter, department store and prescription treatment products. Ughhhhh! Where to begin?

Here are some myths and facts about acne and break outs:

• Oily skin is caused by eating junk food, chocolate and bad hygiene…. MYTH!

Oily skin can be the result of several factors such as environment, stress, hormones, and especially the products you do or do not use on your skin.

• Squeezing pimples or popping zits helps to clear out your clogged pore and promote healing… MYTH!

Squeezing your skin to force out any calcification (pimple) or pus (zit/pustule) can actually cause the material inside your pore to spread and cause more break outs!

• Placing a clean, warm, moist towel on your face prior to cleansing can help open your pores and promote deep cleansing and exfoliation… FACT!

Using a warm moist towel can not only be relaxing but can open your pores allowing you to remove more dead skin cells and clear out dirt and oil particles clogging your pores.

• After cleansing your skin, don’t apply any moisturizer.  You’re skin is already oily enough… MYTH!

This is one of the biggest misconceptions in complexion healing.  Cleansing our skin can remove dead skin cells, dirt and oil; however not using a moisturizer afterward can leave your skin dry and tight.  Your body reacts by releasing more oil from your sebaceous glands.  The result is more oily skin than you started out with, more clogged pores and more break outs!  A good moisturizer for oily or acneic skin rehydrates the skin without excess oil.

• Using products with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can help exfoliate dead skin cells and kill bacteria in clogged pores… FACT!

Benzoyl Peroxide can have a drying effect though so be sure to use your moisturizer.

• Sitting in the sun can kill the bacteria in your skin and promote a clearer complexion… MYTH!

Exposure to the sun and its UVA and UVB rays can actually cause your recently healed skin cells to damage and cause sun spots and acne scarring.

Now that you’re informed, put your good knowledge to use.  Remember anytime you start a new skin care regimen or new product line always follow manufacturer directions and give the products a few weeks before you judge the results!

Start treating your acne now.  Click here to discover a large assortment of acne treatments from SkinStore.

Below are some great products to add to your routine that are beneficial in treating acne.  They will remove dead skin cells and debris, kill acne causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.   (Remember, less is more with treatment products!) These are customer (and staff) favorites. Don’t believe us? Read the customer reviews. They speak for themselves!

Jan Marni Bioglycolic Bioclear – Choose the cream for normal to dry skin and the lotion for normal to oily.  Contains glycolic, salicylic and azelaic acids to resurface the skin, clear out pores, calm inflammation and even skin tone.  Salicylic acid also has anti-bacterial properties.

Peter Thomas Roth Sulfur Cooling Masque – This clay mask contains 10% pharmaceutical grade sulfur for it’s anti-bacterial effects and  zinc oxide for wound healing.  Eucalyptus provides helps calm inflammation and is also antiseptic.  Use once to twice a week to boost your acne regimen.

Belli Acne Clearing Facial Wash – It’s difficult to find an acne treatment when you are expecting.  This wash uses lactic acid, so it is safe for use during pregnancy, but it’s a great cleanser for everyone.

Stiefel PanOxyl Acne Spot Treatment 10% Benzoyl Peroxide – Kills acne bacteria.   It’s a very hydrating BP lotion that’s effective and doesn’t dry out your skin like other benzoyl peroxide treatments can.

Philosophy On A Clear Day Oil-Free Acne Spot Treatment – those who can not use benzoyl peroxide will appreciate this spot treatment, which uses sulfur and salicylic acid.

SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5 – fantastic for speeding up cell renewal and helps with acne as well as anti-aging.

Bonus product – ANSR Beam – This is a great LED device that has a blue light for killing acne bacteria. The red light accelerates healing and cell renewal. It’s also great for hyperpigmentation and wrinkles.

It’s best to use a combination of products to address all causes of acne.  For example one might use the Jan Marini Bioglycolic Lotion daily for exfoliation and calming inflammation, SkinCeuticals Retinol a couple nights a week for cell renewal and Philosophy On a Clear Day Oil-Free Acne Spot Treatment on the other nights or as needed to control bacteria.  It is best to start one new product at a time to minimize irritation.  As stated above, “Less is more” because using treatments too frequently or too many at the same time can cause drying and irritation.

Moisturizer and Sunscreen is also a must.  Proper hydration promotes healthy cell turnover and you will need sun protection as these products make your skin more vulnerable to UV rays.

Unfortunately, your acne can’t go away over night (no matter how hard you wish for it).  It is common for you to see new breakouts at first.  For more information on that, please see our blog on skin purging.  Be patient and you’ll start to see clearer, healthier skin.

Visit SkinStore.com for more great acne treatments.