BOO! Happy All Hallows Eve! While your bunnies, ghosts, princesses and pirates are out trick-or-treating, treat yourself to a masque of your own, here are our favorite skin treats… no tricks involved:
Purifying masques
Oily and acne-prone skin types benefit from a weekly purifying masque. Purifying masques help to minimize the appearance of large pores while drawing out impurities and excess sebum. A purifying masque is typically clay based and contains anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
Exfoliating masques
Everyone should exfoliate! An exfoliating masque will remove dead skin cells from your skin. Exfoliating masques provide brightening, purifying and tightening benefits. After exfoliating, treatment products will penetrate deeper into the skin.
Brightening masques
Dull skin can benefit from a brightening masque. Brightening masques are infused with glow-getting antioxidant ingredients like berry extracts and vitamin C.
Soothing masques:
If you’ve over-exfoliated, or if you have sensitive skin, or if you’re looking to calm a sunburn then soothing masques are for you! A soothing masque will deposit cooling, calming and hydrating ingredients into the skin.
Dry skin loves a hydrating masque. Hydrating masques contain moisture-driving ingredients like sodium hyaluronate, essential oils, kernel oils and shea butter which soften the skin.
Tell us what your favorites masque is – we’d love to hear!
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Do you ever feel like there is not enough blotting paper in the world to combat your oily, shiny skin? Do you walk outside on a hot, summer day and feel your makeup immediately start sliding off of your face? Do you walk outside on a cold, winter day and still experience the same problem? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, let me introduce you to your new best friend…Vichy Normaderm PRO Mat!
My own battle with excess oil and shine has been ongoing for as long as I can remember. Always on the search, it seemed like I was constantly spending time and money trying to find something that worked for me, but to no avail. Now, I have FINALLY found that product…thank you Vichy for creating the perfect product for me!
This oil-free moisturizer is my multitasking miracle! It absorbs quickly, works fantastic as a foundation base, instantly mattifies and keeps me shine-free for hours. Another great feature about this product is that it also contains an SPF 15. UV rays are another cause of excess oil production. As if we needed another reason to wear our sunscreen.
I can already hear you asking “How does it work?” Vichy Normaderm PRO Mat contains microspheres that provide that beautiful, instantly matte finish while the Vitamin CG (a stable precursor to Vitamin C) slowly releases throughout the day to actually regulate your body’s own sebum production. So not only does PRO Mat work as an anti-shine quick fix, it also provides long-term benefits.
You want to have clean, clear, healthy skin like some of your favorite teen idols. While you may want to have that Kellan Lutz or Dianna Agron look, your hormones and skin are telling another story.
Here are some quick things to make clean, clear, healthy skin a reality:
Hormonal changes can cause an increase in sebum (oil production.)
Dead skin cells, sweat, oil, and dirt can clog your pores causing pimples, breakouts and zits.
Using an exfoliating cleanser, toner, spot treatment, and moisturizer twice a day can help clear up existing breakouts and reduce future breakouts.
Using cleansers, chemicals, spot treatments, or acne pads, without following up with a moisturizer can cause your skin to dry out and release more oil, causing more breakouts! Make sure to use a moisturizer.
Be sure to use a clean washcloth each time you wash your face. Avoid buffing sponges as they can over exfoliate skin and irritate healing skin. Avoid facial sponges as they can breed bacteria! If you use your hands to apply cleanser, be sure to wash your hands with anti bacterial soap before washing your face.
Inexpensive makeup foundations can have mineral oils and fillers in them that can cause your pores to clog. Try using a minimal amount of foundation (oil free) and consider switching to a mineral based powder foundation.
Avoid picking at skin that is healing. Doing so can cause cratering and permanent scarring. If you are going to be outdoors in the sun for more than 10 minutes a day, be sure you wear an oil free sunscreen with an SPF of at least 20 or more. Exposing unprotected healing skin to UVA/UVB rays can cause pigmentation spotting.
Here are some kits for acneic skin that won’t break the bank!
“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!
Judging product results can be very tricky. How do you know the product you purchased is working for you? How can you tell if the product is doing what it claims? How can you be sure you even purchased the correct product for the skin concern you have?
It is very important to start at the beginning and write down a list of what skin concerns you have. I would suggest a list of top ten or five concerns arranged from highest to least importance. Identify what concerns need the most attention to detail and start there.
Before you go any further be aware that you need to be using (at the bare minimum) a cleanser, toner and moisturizer (in that order). Using one product alone and not using any other skincare products will limit the effectiveness and results of that one product.
Many times customers with aged or acneic skin call in with concerns about their skin feeling dry, tight or peeling after having used a retinol based product. Upon further consultation I usually find that customers are using the correct product, but the retinol level may be too high. Some brands offer retinol in graduating levels. Unfortunately sometimes in haste we may choose the most potent level thinking it will give us the best or quickest results. In fact retinol products that have graduating levels are designed for you to use them at the lower level first. You can then graduate upwards once your skin has adjusted. You can stop increasing the potency level once you find a level that works for you. Also retinol based products do cause a certain level of drying and peeling.
Be sure to give the product time to work. Ordering a product to address your skin concerns and using it for a few days or a week or two may not be enough time. You may need to use the product(s) for 4-6 weeks before you see noticeable results. Set up a skincare regimen through your esthetician or dermatologist and stick to it.
Finally, set realistic goals and expectations. Thirty years of neglecting to use sunscreen and prolonged sun exposure throughout your early years will not be corrected with one jar of the latest skin care cream in one month! Have someone take a photograph of your face and neck area before you begin to treat that area. Take another photograph at the end of each week. At the end of that four to six week period then compare your first week and last week photos and judge the results.
As always if you are uncertain what products to use you can contact us and we would be happy to help design a skin care regimen for you!
You can also get your own personal consultation now at SkinStore with Product Advisor, developed by our estheticians!
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.
What is your skin like? My skin is a real trouble maker. It’s oily… everywhere, but it’s also dehydrated. It breaks out…..everywhere. And there is sun damage…..everywhere. Oh, and it doesn’t appreciate frequent use uses of aggressive products. I have tried this approach but it retaliates with redness and dry, irritated areas. I have to coerce it into behaving properly with a balancing/ juggling act that I have choreographed over the years. To top it off, I am trying to ward off signs of aging, so I have added a couple new products to my routine.
What is your main concern? All of the above.
What does your skincare regimen consist of? See below.
Treatment #1:SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum – This is like 3 serums in one. An anti-aging serum full of peptides and growth factors, an antioxidant serum to prevent and repair free radical damage, and a hydrating serum with sodium hyaluronate. I could go on and on.
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!
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.
Vitamin A is a powerful little thing. It’s necessary for healthy eye function; our retina simply can not do without vitamin A. When vitamin A is converted into retinoic acid it functions like a growth factor for our cells. Vitamin A is also commonly known as retinol in dermatological use. Vitamin A is converted into a few different byproducts, and is commonly produced as retinyl acetate or palmitate.
Vitamin A is naturally found in many foods. Liver, carrots, broccoli, sweet potato, pumpkin, eggs, milk, and many other foods are rich sources of vitamin A. Vitamin A, once absorbed by our body, is converted into the appropriate form and utilized by our bodily functions. Vitamin A plays a role in eye health, immune system health, gene transcription, antioxidant activity, and of course, skin health.
Vitamin A is very beneficial to the skin, so a diet rich in vitamin A abundant sources provides for healthy skin that’s firm, clear, radiant and resilient. Vitamin A, when applied topically (in retinol form) is very beneficial to the skin as well. Retinol is often used in the treatment of acne as it dramatically reduces the size and secretion of the sebaceous glands. It also helps to reduce inflammation and induces collagen production. As retinol induces collagen production it helps to firm and tone the skin, so aged skin will become more resistant to drooping and sagging. Retinol is an outstanding treatment for acne, enlarged or clogged pores, as well as prematurely aged skin. As retinol induces exfoliation and cell renewal it also assists in lightening hyperpigmentation or skin discoloration.
Here are some outstanding products that contain retinol and address acne and aging concerns:
BOO! Happy All Hallows Eve! While your bunnies, ghosts, princesses and pirates are out trick-or-treating, treat yourself to a masque of your own, here are our favorite skin treats… no tricks involved:
You want to have clean, clear, healthy skin like some of your favorite teen idols. While you may want to have that Kellan Lutz or Dianna Agron look, your hormones and skin are telling another story.
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.
What is your skin like? My skin is a real trouble maker. It’s oily… everywhere, but it’s also dehydrated. It breaks out…..everywhere. And there is sun damage…..everywhere. Oh, and it doesn’t appreciate frequent use uses of aggressive products. I have tried this approach but it retaliates with redness and dry, irritated areas. I have to coerce it into behaving properly with a balancing/ juggling act that I have choreographed over the years. To top it off, I am trying to ward off signs of aging, so I have added a couple new products to my routine.
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.
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!
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