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La Roche- Posay, the brand who’s name sake comes from the French village and treatment center in which they treat 7,500 dermatology patients a year, is on the fore front of bringing important sun protection technologies to the United States. Both Estheticians and dermatologist know the scrutiny that European and Australian countries have put on government regulations when labeling and developing sun protection products. Unfortunately in the US our FDA laws are outdated (from 1978, to be exact) and were developed when we had far less knowledge about both UVA and UVB radiation. SPF (Sun Protection factor) only signifies the amount of protection from UVB rays. These are the rays that cause sunburn and cancer. The US is unlike other countries in which we have no regulation system to know a product’s protection from UVA rays. UVA rays cause the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to premature aging and have also been linked to melanoma cancer. UVA rays are present whether it is sunny outside or not, in the same intensity from sun up, to sun down. This is why it is important within the States to purchase a sunscreen that says “broad spectrum”, meaning it has both UVA and UVB filters. With that said, unfortunately the US available UVA filters only cover a certain part of the wavelength spectrum, leaving skin unprotected from the short wavelength UVA rays, until now.Mexoryl or Ecamsule is currently the only organic FDA approved UVA filtering ingredient and has been formulated within La Roche- Posay's Anthelios SX and Anthelios 40. There are only a few sunscreens within the United States to use this important UVA filter. Mexoryl SX does not degrade significantly when exposed to sunlight; unlike the commonly used UVA sunscreen filter Avobenzone, which requires more chemical stabilizers to ensure the products effectiveness. Anthelios SX has won 12 beauty awards, is lightweight, perfect for everyday use as a morning moisturizer.Aside from great UVA technology, La Roche-Posay has mastered the technologies for creating mineral sunscreens that are lightweight and leave no white residue. This residue is what deters people from using sunscreen and protecting themselves. Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen Fluid is available in a regular and tinted formulation. It absorbs quickly, is non-comedogenic and dries to a matte finish.  These mineral sunscreens are formulated using CELL-OX Shield, which is a patented antioxidant formulation to combat free radical damaged caused by UV exposure. For us makeup lovers who also want a high sun protection level, The Anthelios 50 daily anti-aging primer is a great choice. This primer also contains the CELL-OX antioxidant protection. It can be worn just on its own, but it creates a smooth canvas for makeup application. It is suitable for all skin types and has a matte finish. Anthelios Anti-aging Primer contains micro-particles and silicone elastomers that reduce the appearance of fine lines, large pores, pigmentation and redness all while protecting the skin with an SPF of 50. Concerns over the effectiveness of sun protection products are of great concern to those of us in the Skin Care industry. Luckily, La Roche-Posay is pushing for high quality ingredients to be allowed in sunscreen formulations within the United States. These UV protectants products are soon to be used and desired by many people, for many sunny and not so sunny days to come.Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal MoniqueChantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

We all know the importance of proper sun protection and it will remain a constant subject within my posts and videos for askderm.com. What I am continually impressed by is the advances within sunscreen technologies. Micro particlization has allowed for improvements in absorption and the feel of sun products, MDSolarSciences is no exception. I was first introduced to the three Mineral Cremes; 30, 50 and tinted. Immediately I fell in love. The texture of these physical sunscreens is dreamy! All three containing Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide, physical sun blockers that are far less likely to irritate sensitive skin, unlike some ingredients in chemical sun screens. They have a mousse like texture that is comparable to many BB creams. Yet they immediately absorb, there is no sticky feel and they are matte. My other favorite sun protection product offered is the Quick Dry Body Spray, SPF 40. There are many sunscreen sprays that claim to be quick drying, yet they still leave a greasy feel after the propellant has evaporated. I quickly set out to convert sunscreen non-believers and those who may just not have been previously exposed to a product with this great of a texture. From a general contractor, to a zookeeper, I have forced people to try this sunscreen. Everyone agrees the texture is fantastic!  MDSolarSciences is not only concerned with the health of your skin, but also the health of our environment. MDSolarSciences has worked to eliminate chemicals within their sunscreen brand to not contribute to the destruction of coral reefs. They consulted with the Environmental Working Group (EWG) so that they can scientifically be as safe as possible. I would order this sunscreen by the case!  Anyone in my personal life, who receives MDSolarSciences sunscreen from me this summer, should consider it a sign of love! Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal Monique Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, her work has included upscale clientele, a private investigator undercover and independent film work. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips! 

Want the inside scoop? Chantal, askderm's in-house esthetician, shares her top beauty tips and skincare expertise for Summer 2015. “If you find that your creamier makeup products are slipping and not staying in place try setting them with powder! Most people know to do this in regards to their foundation, but eyeliner smudging and lid transfer can be prevented by lightly pressing a shadow over the area you placed the pencil liner.”  - Chantal " For clearer skin never go to bed without removing your makeup or without washing your face. Toxins, makeup, oil and dead skin cells will become trapped within your skin's follicles, this will lead to more acne blemishes and enlarged pores."  - Chantal "Apply essential oils to your wrists, neck, temples and inhale deeply to enjoy the most benefits."  - Chantal "Unlike chemical sunscreens, physical sunscreens sit on top of the surface of the skin and begin to give you sun protection immediately. Chemical sunscreens take about 15 to 20 minutes to absorb and start working properly."  - Chantal "Full body exfoliation promotes the growth of new healthy cells and also has the benefit of increasing circulation that may temporarily leave you feeling invigorated. If you choose a salt scrub you have the added mineral benefits as well as the fact that salt has anti-microbial properties and can help with blemish causing bacteria." - Chantal "Eating seasonal produce is a must. For spring, my go-to veggie is Asparagus! It is loaded with antioxidants and minerals. Asparagus is a prebiotic, meaning it helps feed the "good" gut bacteria and it is a diuretic, helping to rid you of that sluggish bloated feeling." - Chantal "Spring cleaning is not just for your home, it applies to your skincare products as well! If you are not regularly washing your makeup brushes, now is the time to start! Product shelf life upon opening varies, so toss your mascara if it is over three month old and replace your sunscreen annually. Pressed powder products can last two years plus. If any product you own has changed color, texture or odor, it is time to ditch it for a new one." - Chantal "Full and thick eyebrows convey youth and vitality. The growing popularity of eyebrows not only being thick, but straight and angular; bordering on the edge of masculinity, has to do with the notion that women are feeling stronger and confident, both socially and within the workplace." - Chantal   Blog Written by askderm's in-house Esthetician  Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 9 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers.

Innovative Skincare® has several products for making playing in the sun safe and more comfortable. Here are some featured products you will not want to leave out of your Beach Bag this season! Extra protection with the inclusion Vitamin C - Vitamin C (l-ascorbic acid) based products work really well for this time of year because they add additional UV protection along with the benefits of brightening, lightening, and tightening.  iS CLINICAL has several options.  My favorites are iS CLINICAL’s Pro-Heal Serum Advance + because of its level of antioxidants, and Super Serum Advance + because of its inclusion of growth factors. Sunscreen – One option is our iS Eclipse SPF 50+ sunscreen.  It uses all-physical sunscreens, so there are no chemicals to worry about.  This sheer sunscreen product has a beautiful matte finish that is perfect for under make-up. Penetrating Hydration – iS CLINICAL’s Hydra-Cool Serum is the perfect post-sun treatment.  When the skin is sunburned it is also dehydrated. This low-weight serum calms, soothes, and cools irritated skin and also helps reduce the redness of a sunburn.  It also delivers a high level of antioxidants to the skin to protect against future damage. CoolMint Revitalizing Masque - It doesn't get any better than this take-home professional treatment.  If your skin is dying of thirst and damage from the hot summer months, just apply this to your skin and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.  This masque is sure to juice up your skin with hydration while also delivering powerful antioxidants to fend off future damage.  This is great to use during a nice relaxing bath.

When it comes to sun damage it’s always easier to prevent than to fix. Frequent unprotected exposure to sunlight, whether you get a burn or not, can lead to premature aging and pigmentation as well as cancer. Luckily for us there are thousands of amazing options for sunblock and other skincare products that will keep you protected and beautiful no matter the season or occasion! ................   Vitamin C/AntioxidantsSun damage is an oxidative process. Vitamin C and other antioxidants don’t block the rays but it slows the damage process to the collagen and aids in the repair process. Vitamin C not only helps against free radicals but it also stimulates collagen production and can help brighten the tone of your skin with continual use. Here are some of the Vitamin C products that I’m totally in love with right now: Replenix by Topix CF Purifying Foaming Antioxidant Cleanser Sun protection is a must have but a top complaint of sunscreen is that it is heavy and has a tendency to make people break out. This cleanser is amazing at purifying those pores plus giving you the added benefit of another antioxidant powerhouse, Green Tea. This cleanser also has CoQ10, Cucumber and Chamomile Extracts which are also great anti inflammatory and anti aging ingredients. Murad Advanced Active Radiance Serum The new formula of this serum delivers 50x the free radical neutralizing power of the previous formula. It not only protects your skin from harmful environmental effects all day long but it also improves skin firmness by up to 63% in just 15 minutes! If that wasn’t enough this serum is also powered by a new Vitamin C technology that helps to improve skin brightness, clarity and radiance.   Murad Essential-C Eye Cream SPF 15 The delicate eye tissue needs a gentle sunblock. Eyes and lips age faster than the rest of your skin but you can protect those precious peepers with this incredible vitamin c powered eye sunscreen cream. This eye cream also immediately stimulates collagen production and helps to reduce fine lines/wrinkles and reduce dark circles to help renew that delicate area.  ................   How to Choose the Right SunblockAs we mentioned before people shy away from sunblock often because it doesn’t agree with their skin. However the problem isn’t sun protection in general, it may be that you’re choosing the wrong formula for your skin! Here is a guide based on skin type that can help you stay protected and beautiful.  Acne Prone/Oily Glytone Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 40 This oil free, fragrance free and mineral based sunscreen lotion is just what you need if you have sensitive oily or acne prone skin. This non-comedogenic formula has vitamin C to help keep skin firm and elastic, hydrated and soft, without oiliness. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid to help your skin hold on to the natural moisture that it has without clogging your pores the way a lot of sunscreen/moisturizers do.    Normal/Combination La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid You’ve probably heard of this well known sunscreen already but for good reason! Featured in Oprah Magazine, this sunscreen offers a soft matte finish and is never greasy so it works perfectly under makeup. It’s also boosted by antioxidants and is not only non-comedogenic but its also water resistant for longer-lasting protection. It also comes in a body version to give you all over protection for any situation. Sensitive DCL Antioxidant Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 If you have sensitive skin then sunscreen is often the last thing that you want to put on…but with this sunscreen you’re in luck! Formulated with non chemical sun-blocking agents, this quick drying mineral sunscreen offers a matte finish quick drying formula and is loaded with calming ingredients such as Chamomile and has skin loving ingredients such as Vitamin E and Argan Nut Oil to firm skin, improve elasticity and smooth out wrinkles.   All Skin Types NEOVA DNA Damage Control (Silc Sheer 2.0 Broad Spectrum SPF 40) This advanced sunscreen not only provides the benefits of antioxidants and powerful sun protection but it also has the added bonus of a skin-perfecting sheer tint that evens out skin tone. It can also help correct the signs of sun inflicted skin DNA damage over time and is oil free so it is safe for skin that is acne prone. ................   I am personally someone who struggles with problem skin so I must say discovering these products was a lifesaver…literally. Sun damage can be as minor as getting freckles, or it can be as severe as skin cancer. There are also a bunch of things in between such as premature sagging and wrinkles (one side of your face more severe than the other due to driving and one side of your face getting more rays than another) as well as hyper pigmentation and melasma for which the only for true reversal is laser treatments. So if you’re like me and DON’T want to spend thousands of dollars on getting an even skin tone I definitely recommend wearing sunscreen every day no matter what. Trust me...your skin will thank you.

BB and CC creams went from American obscurity to prime time commercial breaks and at every makeup counter in the department store. The first Beauty Balm was developed in Germany and quickly gained popularity in the Asian market. While those of us in the skincare and beauty industry have known about these products for years, the craze did not hit America until about 2011.  If you are in the search for a new product, just enjoy trying something new or are looking for a minimalist approach to your daily skin routine you may want to experiment with a BB or CC cream. They run the gamut when it comes to targeting specific concerns like acne, pigmentation, and maturing skin. Some are more lightweight in consistency and more reminiscent of a heavy tinted moisturizer, but much more often they have a whipped or mouse like constancy. Depending on your desired level of coverage you may like to use them alone or use as a primer, layered under your liquid or powdered foundation. While there are some differences between brands the most common similarities between these balms and creams are in the ingredients, so when reading labels you may see these key words: SPF, both physical sunscreens (titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide) and Chemical sunscreens (octinoxate) A silicone derivative, which works as a primer and pore smoother Light reflecting particles such as mica, to create a more radiant healthy skin glow Antioxidants like Vitamin C to brighten and lighten skin, and vitamin E, which aids in skin healing and free radical damage Moisture binders such as Hylaronic Acid Licorice which fights pigment discoloration, lightens skin, aids in inflammation and is effective in fighting bacteria Algae that thickens the product consistency and helps the skin retain moisture Some BB and CC users may enjoy the product alone, but keep in mind that if you have specific skin issues such as very dry, dehydrated skin you may still need to use a daily moisturizer. Apply your moisturizer before using your beauty balm. If you have chosen a beauty balm that specifically targets acne, chances are it does not contain an SPF, as the FDA does not allow sun protection ingredients and acne fighting ingredients, such as salicylic acid to be combined in a single product, so you will still need to wear a daily sunscreen. While some trends come and go in a single season, the Alphabetically squared trend seems to just be getting started and manufactures are sure to be moving their way down the alphabet when it comes to treating and protecting the skin.   Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal Monique Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

I was recently introduced to the idea of at home chemical peels and I had seemed wary with some of the different products that were being sold out there (I’m not going to test it out with something that could potentially burn me!) but I heard amazing reviews about Neostrata's at-home peel from several of my esthetician friends who have used it themselves and who recommend it for their clients to use in-between visits. Will the Neostrata Perfecting Peel leave your skin feeling amazing & radiant, read my full Neostrata Skin Active Perfecting Peel Review. Don’t you just love the feeling you get when you leave the spa or dermatologist’s office after getting a nice chemical peel? That bright radiance your skin is left with as you walk out the door. Ideally, if I had the time and money to hit the spa every two to three weeks for a chemical peel I’d absolutely would love to! But some people just aren’t able to manage it. The NeoStrata Skin Perfecting Peel fades the signs of aging including fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and discoloration after several uses while it improves even the most uneven of skin tones. Its Alpha hydroxy acids, citric acids and glycolic acids all help in the exfoliation of dead skin cells which results in your skin feeling softer and becoming much smoother looking. The Perfecting Peel promotes healthy cell renewal which will also help prevent premature aging. To neutralizer pad is packed with soothing extracts which works with your skin by preventing irritation, discomfort and redness from occurring. The NeoStrata Skin Active Perfecting Peel can be used in between professional chemical peels, but I suggest consulting with your dermatologist prior. The NeoStrata Skin Active Perfecting Peel was incredibly easy to use which made it even more amazing in my book but it also showed results after the first use! The Perfecting Peel is great for aging, oily, dry, combination and normal skin types and is dye free and fragrance free. After the first use, you will notice your skin is brighter and feel much smoother to the touch. My skin felt wonderful afterwards…It was very hard not to keep touching it to feel its softness! Your One Stop For A Perfect Chemical Peel At Home You finally don’t have to wait to find the time to get a professional chemical peel, you can easily do it yourself safely at home. To use this product properly make sure you read the directions which are simple and very easy to read. The Skin Active Perfecting Peel can be used weekly at home and incorporated into your beauty routine. In order to use the Perfecting Peel make sure you wash your face prior with a gentle, fragrance free cleanser, next you will use the ‘Step 1 Peel Pad’ all over your face (I suggest doing so in a gentle circular motion avoiding eyes and lips). Leave the peel on for ten minutes but make sure you monitor your skin’s response…(A slight tingle is to be expected but if burning or redness occur you can use the Neutralizing pad prior to the ten minutes to neutralize the reaction). Once the Perfecting Peel has been left on, use the ‘Step 2 Neutralizing Pad’ all over your face covering all areas that the peel pad had been applied (still avoiding eyes and lips). After doing so, you must rinse your face off with water to remove any impurities and residue. Make sure to apply a fragrance free moisturizer to hydrate your skin after use. Because your skin just had a chemical peel similar to that by a professional, you still need to apply sunscreen before going outdoors as it will leave your skin extra sensitive to the sun’s rays. Overall, this is an absolutely amazing peel that I will continue to use and recommend to friends, family and clients. It was definitely worth the investment and your skin will look and feel amazing and radiant afterwards!   Blog Written by askderm's Guest Esthetician  Stephanie Ivonne is a New Jersey licensed Esthetician.  Her fun-loving, outgoing personality will shine through her product selections & reviews to help you discover the hottest skincare and beauty products. When Stephanie is not scouring the internet for the next hot skincare product, she is a mother to two wonderful biological children, a dedicated foster mom and is devoted to her husband of 13 years.

Acne isn’t just for teenagers.  I remember getting a few breakouts as a preteen and teen but never anything really bad…I was fortunate.  Then through college and my twenties I’d have an occasional one or two here and there but it wasn’t until I was thirty that all hell broke loose.  I was at school for my Esthetician’s license and I swear, I went in at 29 with clear skin and when I graduated at 30 I had horrendous, cystic acne that took over half of my face. My hormones, lots of stress at work, school and home plus getting facials several times a day (to graduate, you needed to practice many different types on each other a certain amount of times through schooling) and it was all too much for my skin. It was extremely painful and it was absolutely mortifying for me as I was working at a spa and helping clients achieve great skin, when in reality, I didn’t look the part to be giving tips on beautiful skin. I didn’t go out much, I kept to myself and I’d hide my face as much as possible. I got really depressed and cried…a lot. When you’re in this industry skill is a big part (would you trust your neighbor to mix ingredients to give you a chemical peel?!) but in the world of aesthetics, “looks aren’t absolutely everything”, but do play a huge (ok, GINORMOUS!) part…it’s the Beauty Industry for goodness sake! It wasn’t until I had a visit with my Dermatologist and had to be put on a very strong medicine for a few months that I saw a difference. Now at 31, a year off the medication I will only get a couple here and there and treat them accordingly.  Different ages have different types of acne and there are different approaches to take. What Exactly Is Acne? According to the definition on Wikipedia: Acne Disease Acne vulgaris is a long-term skin disease that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and oil from the skin. Acne is characterized by areas of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and greasy skin, and may result in scarring. Or the definition in the dictionary: ac·ne the occurrence of inflamed or infected sebaceous glands in the skin; in particular, a condition characterized by red pimples on the face, prevalent chiefly among teenagers. Regardless where you find the definition, it’s a painful skin condition that affects all ages, races, sexes physically and emotionally. Not all treatment approaches are the same for everyone and it’s not a ‘one size fits all’ type of cure. Preteen “Tween” Acne Preteen “Tweens” are those that aren’t exactly small children anymore but aren’t yet teenagers. According to KidsHealth.org, 8 out of 10 preteens have some form of acne. This is a very common time to begin getting acne as their bodies are transforming and their hormones are beginning to change.   You usually will not see large or cystic pustules but their faces will tend to have mild, small, non-inflamed bumps on the nose and forehead with some blackheads appearing.  Because their hormones are starting to change, they tend to have overactive sebaceous (oil) glands beginning at this point.  The more oil that is created, the more clogged pores. Tips To Help Preteen Acne Avoid applying makeup with hands.  Although I’m ok with a lip gloss, I’ve always seen no need for preteens to wear makeup. But, if they want to disguise the look of acne with cover up, make sure they use a brush to avoid any further bacteria and oils from entering their pores. Don’t Let It Get Bad. Don’t wait for it become worse before taking steps to take care of it.  Start off early with proper cleansing and healthy skin habits before there is a problem. Wash your face twice a day.  Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers and opt for gentle formulas that won’t overly dry or irritate the skin. Use oil free products.  Using sunscreen and moisturizer is great for healthy skin, but use products that are oil free that will less likely clog the pores and cause breakouts. Stop touching your face! Yes, it’s there just calling for you to pop it…DON’T! The more you touch it, the more bacteria will get in there and it’ll take longer to heal.  The odds of you popping it properly and not causing scaring are very slim, so just wait it out. Teenage Acne Between school, SATs, college, afterschool activities and sports and jobs, most teenagers have a lot on their plates.  It doesn’t make it any easier that their hormones are raging at this point and their faces and bodies will tend to pay for all the stress.  According to the Academy of Dermatology, nearly 100% of teenagers will have that occasional breakout. Papules, pustules, white heads and cysts will start to appear much more now.  These breakouts will appear anywhere from their face, neck, chest, back and even their rear end.  From long hair and sports bras, I remember getting it on my back right where the sports bra would lay holding sweat and bacteria. Puberty is brutal and teens should take the proper steps to making it just a bit easier by caring for their skin.   Tips To Help Teenage Acne Noncomedogenic products are a must! Look for products that say ‘Noncomedogenic’ which are those that will not clog pores and will help with avoiding those annoying breakouts. Wash your face and body twice a day. Using a gentle face and body cleanser for acne is a great way to help with breakouts.  They will not dry your skin out like normal soaps but will provide you with the moisture your skin needs as it helps fight the acne. Guys, don’t touch after shaving. Those guys who are ‘lucky’ enough to have teen facial hair and need to shave must avoid touching their freshly smooth, shaved face as it is more prone to getting bacteria in the pores causing breakouts. Invest In A Cleansing Brush. A great way to make sure your body (especially your back) is cleansed properly and exfoliated helping reduce acne is by using a rotating cleansing brush.  These brushes will help greatly for those larger areas. Carry cleansing wipes everywhere.  These wipes are great to keep in your backpack or sports bag to use when needed. Whether it’s after school on the way to sports or after gym class, the wipes will keep your skin clean, fresh and help with bacteria that causes acne. Don’t go overboard.  Homecoming is next week and you want that extremely obvious pimple on your nose to go away, so you decide to scrub your face several times a day and put excess product on your face more than the directions asked for to ‘quicken’ the process.  This is such a bad idea.  If you scrub too much and put more product on than the instructions say, you’re more likely to worsen your skin.  Your skin will become overly dry causing your oil glands to try and compensate for the loss and work in overdrive causing even more clogged pores and acne…the idea doesn’t sound too appealing now, does it?! Adult Acne You’d think that as an adult you wouldn’t have to purchase any more products for acne since you’re far from being a teenager …think again. Between birth control, that time of the month, pregnancy and everything in between have a lot to do with your hormones.  This is why many women who have entered menopause don’t have to worry about that occasional breakout anymore.  Our skin is aging and unlike our skin in our teen years, it is much thinner and more sensitive to the products that we use on it.  This is why products that are geared towards adult skin will help you much more than the harsher products that work better on teenage skin problems.   Tips To Help Adult Acne Keep Hydrated. As adults, our skin is already losing collagen, moisture and elasticity, so help keep it supple and healthy by drinking the recommended amount of water daily. Don’t Over Exfoliate. Even with skin becoming much drier when we get older, over exfoliating will make your skin much worse.  Not only will your skin become irritated and more sensitive, it will most like cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil causing clogged pores. Keep Moisturized.  At this stage in life we need to keep our skin moisturized, not just to look and feel healthier but also in aging gracefully.  Even if you have adult acne, your skin will heal quicker if it is moisturized and hydrated. Stay Protected.  You don’t need to walk around all day in a thick cream, but you do need to make sure your skin stays protected from the sun’s harmful rays by applying a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen.  There are many lightweight sunscreens out there that not only feel light to touch but you don’t feel like your skin is being weighed down or clogged. Sun will actually cause more damage to acne despite the false idea that it will heal it by drying it out. Use Products Geared Towards Adults. Adult acne is so common that everywhere you look you will see products geared towards adults.  They are created with the moisture your aging skin needs but are not as harsh as those for those collagen rich, thicker skinned teens.  Adult products work for acne as well as the extra antiaging protection and are created specifically for your skin. There is no need to live with acne. It doesn’t matter how old you are or if you inherited your parents’ poor complexion, there is no need to live with acne.   Before it’s too late (something I did because I was so stubborn and hopeful that I could cure it myself!) seek treatment.  Purchase products that are right for your skincare needs and go see your Esthetician or Dermatologist to help find a treatment plan for your individual needs. If you wait until it’s too late, acne can hurt not only your self esteem but cause scarring to your skin. I never used to wear foundation but after waiting so long to seek treatment for acne, my face scarred a lot and some days the scars still bother me. There are different treatment options for acne scarring such as chemical peels and even laser treatments for those more severe cases but there is always something out there to help you. You’re not going through it alone although you may feel it, and the additional stress of worrying about it only triggers more breakouts.  This is something that takes time and needs patience. There is always a clear road after the storm.     Blog Written by askderm's Guest Esthetician  Stephanie Ivonne is a New Jersey licensed Esthetician.  Her fun-loving, outgoing personality will shine through her product selections & reviews to help you discover the hottest skincare and beauty products. When Stephanie is not scouring the internet for the next hot skincare product, she is a mother to two wonderful biological children, a dedicated foster mom and is devoted to her husband of 13 years.  

Acne isn’t just for teenagers.  I remember getting a few breakouts as a preteen and teen but never anything really bad…I was fortunate.  Then through college and my twenties I’d have an occasional one or two here and there but it wasn’t until I was thirty that all hell broke loose.  I was at school for my Esthetician’s license and I swear, I went in at 29 with clear skin and when I graduated at 30 I had horrendous, cystic acne that took over half of my face. My hormones, lots of stress at work, school and home plus getting facials several times a day (to graduate, you needed to practice many different types on each other a certain amount of times through schooling) and it was all too much for my skin. It was extremely painful and it was absolutely mortifying for me as I was working at a spa and helping clients achieve great skin, when in reality, I didn’t look the part to be giving tips on beautiful skin. I didn’t go out much, I kept to myself and I’d hide my face as much as possible. I got really depressed and cried…a lot. When you’re in this industry skill is a big part (would you trust your neighbor to mix ingredients to give you a chemical peel?!) but in the world of aesthetics, “looks aren’t absolutely everything”, but do play a huge (ok, GINORMOUS!) part…it’s the Beauty Industry for goodness sake! It wasn’t until I had a visit with my Dermatologist and had to be put on a very strong medicine for a few months that I saw a difference. Now at 31, a year off the medication I will only get a couple here and there and treat them accordingly.  Different ages have different types of acne and there are different approaches to take. What Exactly Is Acne? According to the definition on Wikipedia: Acne Disease Acne vulgaris is a long-term skin disease that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and oil from the skin. Acne is characterized by areas of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and greasy skin, and may result in scarring. Or the definition in the dictionary: ac·ne the occurrence of inflamed or infected sebaceous glands in the skin; in particular, a condition characterized by red pimples on the face, prevalent chiefly among teenagers. Regardless where you find the definition, it’s a painful skin condition that affects all ages, races, sexes physically and emotionally. Not all treatment approaches are the same for everyone and it’s not a ‘one size fits all’ type of cure. Preteen “Tween” Acne Preteen “Tweens” are those that aren’t exactly small children anymore but aren’t yet teenagers. According to KidsHealth.org, 8 out of 10 preteens have some form of acne. This is a very common time to begin getting acne as their bodies are transforming and their hormones are beginning to change.   You usually will not see large or cystic pustules but their faces will tend to have mild, small, non-inflamed bumps on the nose and forehead with some blackheads appearing.  Because their hormones are starting to change, they tend to have overactive sebaceous (oil) glands beginning at this point.  The more oil that is created, the more clogged pores. Tips To Help Preteen Acne Avoid applying makeup with hands.  Although I’m ok with a lip gloss, I’ve always seen no need for preteens to wear makeup. But, if they want to disguise the look of acne with cover up, make sure they use a brush to avoid any further bacteria and oils from entering their pores. Don’t Let It Get Bad. Don’t wait for it become worse before taking steps to take care of it.  Start off early with proper cleansing and healthy skin habits before there is a problem. Wash your face twice a day.  Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers and opt for gentle formulas that won’t overly dry or irritate the skin. Use oil free products.  Using sunscreen and moisturizer is great for healthy skin, but use products that are oil free that will less likely clog the pores and cause breakouts. Stop touching your face! Yes, it’s there just calling for you to pop it…DON’T! The more you touch it, the more bacteria will get in there and it’ll take longer to heal.  The odds of you popping it properly and not causing scaring are very slim, so just wait it out. Teenage Acne Between school, SATs, college, afterschool activities and sports and jobs, most teenagers have a lot on their plates.  It doesn’t make it any easier that their hormones are raging at this point and their faces and bodies will tend to pay for all the stress.  According to the Academy of Dermatology, nearly 100% of teenagers will have that occasional breakout. Papules, pustules, white heads and cysts will start to appear much more now.  These breakouts will appear anywhere from their face, neck, chest, back and even their rear end.  From long hair and sports bras, I remember getting it on my back right where the sports bra would lay holding sweat and bacteria. Puberty is brutal and teens should take the proper steps to making it just a bit easier by caring for their skin.   Tips To Help Teenage Acne Noncomedogenic products are a must! Look for products that say ‘Noncomedogenic’ which are those that will not clog pores and will help with avoiding those annoying breakouts. Wash your face and body twice a day. Using a gentle face and body cleanser for acne is a great way to help with breakouts.  They will not dry your skin out like normal soaps but will provide you with the moisture your skin needs as it helps fight the acne. Guys, don’t touch after shaving. Those guys who are ‘lucky’ enough to have teen facial hair and need to shave must avoid touching their freshly smooth, shaved face as it is more prone to getting bacteria in the pores causing breakouts. Invest In A Cleansing Brush. A great way to make sure your body (especially your back) is cleansed properly and exfoliated helping reduce acne is by using a rotating cleansing brush.  These brushes will help greatly for those larger areas. Carry cleansing wipes everywhere.  These wipes are great to keep in your backpack or sports bag to use when needed. Whether it’s after school on the way to sports or after gym class, the wipes will keep your skin clean, fresh and help with bacteria that causes acne. Don’t go overboard.  Homecoming is next week and you want that extremely obvious pimple on your nose to go away, so you decide to scrub your face several times a day and put excess product on your face more than the directions asked for to ‘quicken’ the process.  This is such a bad idea.  If you scrub too much and put more product on than the instructions say, you’re more likely to worsen your skin.  Your skin will become overly dry causing your oil glands to try and compensate for the loss and work in overdrive causing even more clogged pores and acne…the idea doesn’t sound too appealing now, does it?! Adult Acne You’d think that as an adult you wouldn’t have to purchase any more products for acne since you’re far from being a teenager …think again. Between birth control, that time of the month, pregnancy and everything in between have a lot to do with your hormones.  This is why many women who have entered menopause don’t have to worry about that occasional breakout anymore.  Our skin is aging and unlike our skin in our teen years, it is much thinner and more sensitive to the products that we use on it.  This is why products that are geared towards adult skin will help you much more than the harsher products that work better on teenage skin problems.   Tips To Help Adult Acne Keep Hydrated. As adults, our skin is already losing collagen, moisture and elasticity, so help keep it supple and healthy by drinking the recommended amount of water daily. Don’t Over Exfoliate. Even with skin becoming much drier when we get older, over exfoliating will make your skin much worse.  Not only will your skin become irritated and more sensitive, it will most like cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil causing clogged pores. Keep Moisturized.  At this stage in life we need to keep our skin moisturized, not just to look and feel healthier but also in aging gracefully.  Even if you have adult acne, your skin will heal quicker if it is moisturized and hydrated. Stay Protected.  You don’t need to walk around all day in a thick cream, but you do need to make sure your skin stays protected from the sun’s harmful rays by applying a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen.  There are many lightweight sunscreens out there that not only feel light to touch but you don’t feel like your skin is being weighed down or clogged. Sun will actually cause more damage to acne despite the false idea that it will heal it by drying it out. Use Products Geared Towards Adults. Adult acne is so common that everywhere you look you will see products geared towards adults.  They are created with the moisture your aging skin needs but are not as harsh as those for those collagen rich, thicker skinned teens.  Adult products work for acne as well as the extra antiaging protection and are created specifically for your skin. There is no need to live with acne. It doesn’t matter how old you are or if you inherited your parents’ poor complexion, there is no need to live with acne.   Before it’s too late (something I did because I was so stubborn and hopeful that I could cure it myself!) seek treatment.  Purchase products that are right for your skincare needs and go see your Esthetician or Dermatologist to help find a treatment plan for your individual needs. If you wait until it’s too late, acne can hurt not only your self esteem but cause scarring to your skin. I never used to wear foundation but after waiting so long to seek treatment for acne, my face scarred a lot and some days the scars still bother me. There are different treatment options for acne scarring such as chemical peels and even laser treatments for those more severe cases but there is always something out there to help you. You’re not going through it alone although you may feel it, and the additional stress of worrying about it only triggers more breakouts.  This is something that takes time and needs patience. There is always a clear road after the storm.     Blog Written by askderm's Guest Esthetician  Stephanie Ivonne is a New Jersey licensed Esthetician.  Her fun-loving, outgoing personality will shine through her product selections & reviews to help you discover the hottest skincare and beauty products. When Stephanie is not scouring the internet for the next hot skincare product, she is a mother to two wonderful biological children, a dedicated foster mom and is devoted to her husband of 13 years.  

Throughout the course of my career I have understood the importance of transparency. In sharing my experiences, I hope to dispel the shame or embarrassment we all feel when it comes to the health and beauty care of our bodies. There is not one body or skin issue that I would shy away from discussing with practically anyone. This may come from my years of performing Brazilian waxes and the trust built during that moment of vulnerability, or that I have been in the beauty industry long enough to know that all women have the same gripes and body concerns. All women are struggling or dealing with health or beauty issues that they believe no one else is facing. Unwanted hair is a very common issue. Recently I went through a series of laser hair removal treatments for hair on my chin. This unsightly hair appeared several years ago and has added at least 15 minutes to my daily routine. After a while I began to feel like this was something I was not going to accept anymore and began to do my research. What is Laser Hair Removal and How Does it Work? I am fairly sure everyone is now familiar with the term “laser hair removal” but may be unaware of exactly what it entails. Laser hair removal is a medical procedure in which a trained technician uses a machine, emitting an intense short burst of light that targets the hair deep within the follicle. The intense heat created by the laser light damages hair and prevents growth. Laser hair removal is done within a series of treatments, anywhere from three to six weeks apart (as determined by your technician), over the course of several months. Who is an Ideal Candidate for Laser Hair Treatment? While laser technology is continuously advancing, the laser is attracted to and is targeting pigment within the hair. This makes myself the ideal candidate, as I am so pale that my fair skin is practically see-through and I have very dark hair. You do not need to be as fair as me for laser hair removal to work; you just need the hair that is to be treated darker than the surrounding skin. Subsequently, if the hair you want removed is blonde, you will need to find a method other than laser. What Else to Consider Prior? If the hair you want removed is a new and unusual growth, especially on your face or neck, you need to first see your primary care physician to rule out other underlying health issues like hormone imbalances. How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal Avoid UV exposure whether from the sun or indoor tanning for four weeks prior and post treatment. A tan is the skin’s own immune system response in which cells darken in pigmentation to protect against further UV damage. Remember the laser is attracted to pigmentation! Because the laser works by targeting the pigment deep within the root of the hair, you need the unwanted hair to be present. That means you must stop all forms of epilation (removal of hair by the root, e.g.: waxing, tweezing and threading) weeks in advance. This also means you will have to shave the area for the entire treatment time. For me, this meant putting down the tweezers and having to shave my face. Honestly, shaving for the first several weeks had me physiologically devaluing myself. I had an overwhelming feeling of being less feminine, but this was something I just had to work through and reassure myself that it was temporary and that in the end, the results would be worth it. Avoid harsh skincare products before treatment. Keep your skincare regiment simple the night before and the morning of. My face wash of choice prior to a laser treatment is ACURE’s Sensitive Facial Cleanser. This non-foaming cleanser has Chamomile as the first ingredient. Its formulation is very calming and anti-inflammatory. Head to your appointment with a makeup free face. A simple SPF is the only product you should be wearing to your appointment. Derma E antioxidant Natural Sunscreen Oil-free Face Lotion is a perfect choice. This contains the physical sunscreen Zinc oxide, which is a known anti-inflammatory. What to Expect During Treatment: When you meet with your technician for the first time, they will have you fill out a comprehensive health evaluation sheet. At the beginning of each and every appointment your technician will ask if there have been any changes in your health, how you felt after your last treatment and whether or not you have been in the sun. You are only doing a disservice to yourself if you do not answer these questions honestly. Both you and your technician will wear protective eyewear during the laser treatment.       A very common question regarding laser hair removal is whether or not it hurts. The best way to describe the feeling is that of a very hot rubber band snapping against your skin. I found that this uncomfortable sensation dissipated, overtime as the treatments go on and there is less hair. After your treatment, expect mild redness or sensitivity. For me this only lasted about 20 minutes post treatment. Avoid heavy makeup, harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliants on the treatment area for 24 hours. My favorite go-to product immediately post treatment is Wilma Schumann Soothing & Balancing Toner. The refreshing mist calms irritated skin, is alcohol free and contains nourishing plant botanicals. The results from my laser series are amazing. My morning routine of plucking and searching for unwanted hairs is no more. My only complaint is that I did not have laser hair removal sooner!     Blog Written by askderm's in-house Esthetician  Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 9 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers.

     Wrinkles are one of the first signs of aging, and can be difficult to deal with. You may notice they start to form around your eyes, mouth, and neck, as initial signs are most likely to appear where the skin has a natural crease when smiling, laughing, or making everyday facial movements. Luckily, there are a wide array of products available at askderm.com to prevent and treat initial fine lines and wrinkles. Although we are all going to experience this unavoidable aspect of aging eventually, taking just a few minutes each day to give your skin the attention it deserves has proven to reduce and even ward off initial symptoms for a significant amount of time. Follow us @askderm on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter to be the first to know all of our exciting news!     The late 20’s are typically when the first wrinkle formations are found, and appear where sun exposure throughout your lifetime is highest like face, hands, chest, and forearms. The best preventative measure, as you may have guessed, is proper SPF application. Unprotected sun exposure allows free radicals to break down collagen and elastin. This slowly diminishes firmness and structure to invite the initial breakdowns of the skin. Up to 90% of the skin’s aging is due to sun exposure and inadequate protection. It’s important to note that not all sunscreens are created equal. Reapplying after sweating, swimming, and more than once per day is very necessary for long summer days when enjoying the outdoors. Even on cool, dark days, and those when your outdoor activities are limited, it is still imperative to keep your application to once per day. Opt for no less than a protection level of 30 SPF to keep yourself protected. FEATURED TOOLS NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device   Fillerina Dermo Replenishing Treatment This device uses microcurrents to topically tone the facial structure through FDA-cleared stimulation. With just five minutes of use per day, you'll noticed improved contour, tone, and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Featuring a two-phase treatment method with 6 different types of hyaluronic acids, and available in three strength levels. Plump up wrinkle depth to create volume and fullness, while applying high levels of nourishing ingredients like VItamin E, Meadowfoam Sea Oil and Shea Butter.   Both lifestyle choices and family history contribute to your skin’s condition. If you smoke, have light colored skin, and have a family history of early or significant wrinkles, your susceptibility of experiencing this condition earlier in life is greatly increased. For optimal results from your anti-wrinkle routine, choose products that contain antioxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids, and glycol acids. It’s no secret that as we age, our bodies slow down both inside and out. Your skin cells divide more slowly and the inner layer, known as the dermis, begins to thin. This results in lost elasticity and overall structure. There are four main types of wrinkles known as atrophic crinkling rhytids, permanent elastic creases, dynamic expression lines, and gravitational folds. Atrophic crinkling rhytids run parallel, are generally not very deep, and are not noticeable when your skin is stretched taught. They are likely to first appear on your face and are caused by a loss in collagen. You’ll first notice a slight sag to your skin. The biggest culprit is UV damage. Regular sun exposure will continue to make these wrinkles worse. The easiest way to effectively treat them is to avoid direct sun exposure when possible, and to maintain regular sunscreen application. Topical treatments can be very effective in minimizing the appearance. Use Retin-A to stimulate collagen production. Permanent elastic creases are found on your face, cheeks, upper lip, and the base of your neck. They are formed as a result of sun exposure and are especially prominent on those who smoke. The repeated facial movements as you inhale harmful cigarettes combined with the included chemicals kick this form of wrinkle into over drive. Dynamic expression lines are a result of repeated facial muscle movements that form a crease in the skin. These smile/frown lines will eventually be permanent unless powerful topical products, or cosmetic intervention is used. You’ll notice them around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Because this form of wrinkle is caused by facial movements such as squinting, and even laughing, there’s little you can do to inhibit the formation. Gravitational folds are the most severe form of wrinkle and occur late in life on very matured skin. As you may have guessed, gravity is the main culprit. These wrinkles are most apparent on thinner frames due to less fat content, and are most noticeable under the eyes, at the jaw line, and chin. Did you know? Wrinkles can be treated throughout every step of your skincare routine. From serums to lotions, and even cleansers, find the right products for you below. EYES - CROWS FEET, SAGGING SKIN, PREVENTATIVE & INITIAL SIGNS La Roche-Posay Active C Eyes Dermatological Anti-Wrinkle Treatment  Murad Intensive Wrinkle Reducer For Eyes La Roche-Posay Redermic C Eyes Anti-Wrinkle Firming Moisture Filler Fresh on the skin with no side effects, it slows visible signs of aging around the delicate eye area. Protect and enhance with a boost of Vitamin C. Reduce crows feet by up to 33% in just 4 weeks! Also improve overall firmness by up to 40% for a more youthful, and vibrant appearance. Target your loss of firmness with fragmented Hyaluronic Acid, pure Vitamin C, Mannose, and Neurosensine. Hydration visibly reduces wrinkles for a plumped and lifted texture.   FACE - FINE LINES TO DEEP DEPRESSIONS, AND EVEN SUN DAMAGE   Keyano Eterna Bella Anti Wrinkle Cream La Roche-Posay Redermic C Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizing Filler for Normal to Combination   Avene Retrinal Advanced Wrinkle Corrector The ultimate botox alternative! Reverses the effects of sun damage to erase lip lines, while firming and toning all treated areas for a more youthful appearance.  Immediately blurs uneven skin tone for a more even complexion, complete with a non-greasy and velvety texture. Suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. Intensely concentrated to visibly correct the most pronounced wrinkles and deep furrows for more radiant skin. Featuring a patented combination of powerful ingredients for maximum precision and efficiency.   Early treatment is key to long term prevention! Age gracefully by taking a few minutes each day to treat, protect, and hydrate your skin. If you have any questions regarding the right skincare products or tools for you, chat with an askderm product specialist below. Follow askderm on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter to be the first to know about giveaways, new product releases, and sales! Use #askderm when you share photos of our products, and showcase your amazing results! 

What is Microdermabrasion? Microdermabrasion is a mechanical exfoliation method in which aluminum oxide or Sodium bicarbonate crystals are sprayed over the skin from a wand that simultaneously suctions the skin and vacuums up the loose crystals. This exfoliation removes the topmost layer of the stratum corneum, encouraging new healthy cells to emerge. Microdermabrasion is for anyone looking to decrease the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, larger pores, hyperpigmentation or “sun spots”. Microdermabrasion can be integrated into your normal skincare regiment with a few modifications. With the removal of the dead cells from the stratum corneum, all other skincare products applied afterward work more effectively! What is the Difference Between an In-office Microdermabrasion Treatment and the PMD? The machines we (estheticians or dermatologists) use in an office setting cost thousands of dollars. The PMD device cost about the same as one in office microdermabrasion treatment. The other difference is that the PMD does not shoot out crystals from the wand but rather contains a spinning disc of aluminum oxide crystals. How to use the PMD? Your device will come with a helpful DVD explaining how to use, clean and maintain your device. Before using your device thoroughly cleanse your skin with a mild and non-exfoliating wash. Make sure the skin is completely dry prior to using your PMD. During a professional treatment we would use hospital-grade alcohol wipes to ensure complete surface dryness. At home I use a cotton round or cloth gauze with witch hazel. I divide my face in half when performing the wand passes. I start at my chin and work from the center of the face outward and up. Always start with the training disc until you get the hang of the device. Pull the skin taught with one hand, while using short strokes move the device across the skin away from the hand holding the skin taught. I work in shorter strokes (about an inch and a half to avoid suction marks). Do not let the devise sit idle on any part of your skin. Following a PMD treatment I rinse my face with cool water to remove any excess crystals and use rose water to calm my skin. The PMD brand does have their own skincare pre and post treatment products, but I did not receive those for the purpose of this review. My First Impression Firstly I was impressed and underestimated how strong the suction of the PMD was. This underestimation combined with passes that were to long led to tiny PMD hickeys and tiny scabs on the tops of my cheeks. Again this was due to operator mishandling and not the fault of the device. This is another reason to start with the recommended training disk and to keep the wand passes short! I performed my first treatment prior to bed. Upon waking up the next morning, the first thing I did, while still laying in bed, was run my hands down the sides of my face. Immediately I could feel that my skin was so much smoother and incredibly soft. My PMD Experience and Final Thoughts When introducing a new product or device into my routine I like to keep everything else the same. With no other additions there is a control; a baseline comparison, from which to be able to know for sure what the exact results are and what caused them. My personal PMD goal is to have less visible pores. The difference I want to achieve and the problem I am trying to rectify may be the one that takes the longest. Large pore size is genetic but overtime pores can be stretched due to the hardened plug inside. Unfortunately due to the change in the weather I had to amp up my acne/ oily skin treatment to get ahead of the beast. I added Professional Solutions Salicylic Acid Exfoliator to my regiment and use this every night of the week except the night that I use the PMD. The pores on my cheeks have been the first area where I noticed a change in appearance. I recently ran out of the house for an errand with only sunscreen on, upon looking at myself in the rear view mirror I felt a sense of relief, appose to the embarrassment I usually feel when looking at my nose sans foundation and concealer. My current favorite thing about the PMD is how much it helps to remove the flaking, dry skin on the sides of my nose and nostrils that is due to the intensity of the salicylic treatment. Without the PMD removing this excess skin, my foundation looks unsightly and uneven on my nose. Currently I love my combo of alternating the salicylic acid (chemical exfolant) with the PMD (mechanical exfolant) and will continue this combined treatment. Overall I am pleased with the PMD device. I will surely keep the PMD as a weekly part of my skincare routine and look forward to progressive results!     Blog Written by askderm's in-house Esthetician  Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 9 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers.