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The Foreo Luna is changing the view of skin cleansing devices. It is more effective than hand cleansing alone because it delivers 8,000 pulses per minute. The sonic technology improves circulation and cellular turnover. The full sized versions have the added feature of an anti-aging low frequency mode. This delivers transdermal frequencies to stimulate collagen and elastin and helps relax the muscles that hold tension from repeated facial expressions.   The device itself is lightweight and only needs to be charged about twice a year. Because the Luna is made with non-porous silicone and cannot harbor bacteria, the Luna is hygienic and can be easily approved of and recommended by Estheticians.  It is gentle enough to use twice a day. My routine and recommendation for using the Luna has its applications in both my morning cleanse, bedtime cleanse and afterward in my nighttime treatment routine. Morning and night I use the Luna with a foaming cleanser. If you have very sensitive skin, I recommend using a cream cleanser. I concentrate on areas that need more exfoliation, like my nose and chin. When washing my neck and décolleté, I use the rippled wave, anti-aging side because there is less tugging on that delicate tissue. One cleanse is enough but if it is a day you are feeling like you need the benefits of a second cleanse, feel free but if your skin is more sensitive, use that same anti- aging side used for the neck. After cleansing, the Luna’s anti-aging mode is great for penetrating serum and treatment products. This device is not just for your face. My biggest area of concern when it comes to sun damage is my hands. They receive the most exposure, whether it is driving to the askderm office, or going to and from locations and clientele. So I use my Luna on the anti-aging mode to help penetrate high antioxidant oil into the backs of each hand to help fight free radical damage at night. If you are looking to streamline your skin care routine, the Foreo Luna may be a good option.  The device cleanses, exfoliates and addresses aging. Its’ cleanse is very effective. Many people find that they are too sensitized to the grit in facial scrubs. The Luna may help you limit yourself to one cleanser product rather than two as it does the exfoliating for you. When you have a deep and purifying cleanse then all your other products are more readily adsorbed into the skin and work better. So an initial investment may just save you money on treatments and products down the road. LUNA mini - $139 LUNA - $199 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!

In honor of THE BIG GAME this weekend, we are giving away 3 FOREO LUNA mini's! Who do you think is going to win? Simply, enter your vote by filling out the poll below. The Foreo Luna Mini Giveaway will be open until February 7th at 6 PM. All you need to do is fill out the Rafflecopter below! 3 Winners - Each Winner will Receive One FOREO LUNA mini. How to Enter: 1. Enter your Information and Register 2. Joining our Mailing List is Mandatory 3. Responding to The Big Game Poll on Who You Think is Going to Win this Sunday is Mandatory 4. For Additional Entries, Follow the Prompts Entries will be received until December 20th at midnight and all winners will be notified on December 21st by email. a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Foreo LUNA Mini is a travel-sized deep-cleansing facial cleansing device, made from soft rounded silicone, that has two speeds and provides up to 300 uses per full charge. The LUNA Mini is available in five bright colors and is suitable for all skin types.  In addition to the benefits of the LUNA Mini, the Foreo LUNA offers an anti-aging mode that uses low-frequency pulsations to reduce the visible signs of aging including fine lines and wrinkles. The LUNA has eight different speeds, provides up to 450 uses per full charge, and is available in three models depending on your skin type. The Foreo Luna Pro has a dual-motor to achieve clinical results at home. The LUNA Pro is suitable for all skin types since it adapts to your skin as it grows and changes. With their groundbreaking design and 8,000 T-Sonic pulsations per minute to refresh the look of the skin, the FOREO Luna deep cleans and stimulates blood flow for a beautiful, radiant looking appearance.  The FOREO Luna facial cleansing brushes are 100% waterproof, made from washable silicone and unlike the other facial cleansing brushes out there, there is no need to replace the brush head since The Luna is non-porous and resistant to bacter With The FOREO Luna targeting all skin types, the only decision you need to make about purchasing this amazing product is which FOREO Luna device is right for you?           FOREO Luna Mini The FOREO Luna Mini may be smaller than the other FOREO Lunas, but it is still just as powerful and works just as well regardless of its size.  The Mini is made for all skin types but is especially geared toward breakout suffers, teens, those with dull complexions and for travel use.  It comes with two speeds for a simple but effective cleansing experience and 300 uses per charge.  The FOREO Luna Mini comes in several bold colors including Cool Grey, Purple, Turquoise Blue, Petal Pink and Magenta.   FOREO Luna ‘The Luna’ The FOREO Luna or ‘The Luna’ is great for those with normal, sensitive, ultra-sensitive or combination skin.  The brushes vary according to your skin type and are sold as Pink: Sensitive to Normal Skin, Blue: Combination Skin, White: Ultra-Sensitive Skin.  There are 8 speeds including a low anti-aging mode to massage those signs of aging, while increasing elasticity and collagen production leaving your skin looking younger and much smoother. FOREO Luna Pro The FOREO Luna Pro is great for all your anti-aging needs.  This FOREO Luna was created for all those wrinkle prone areas working wonders for aging skin.  Lines and wrinkles become much smoother while nourishing your skin with oxygen and nutrients as it flushes away toxins.  There are 8 speeds with the dual T-Sonic motors as the first cleanses and the second motor is for anti-aging.  The FOREO Luna Pro comes in three subtle colors to choose from…Cream, Lavender and Mint.   The FOREO Luna is an amazing gadget that takes your cleansing routine to a whole new level.  With the variety of cleansing brushes to fit your individual skin care needs you can’t go wrong.  FOREO devices come with a 10 year quality guarantee as well as a 2 year warranty so you can feel secure with your purchase.  Once you try these amazing brushes and see the results for yourself, you’ll never go back to your old skincare routine!     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.

From the brand that brought you silicone sonic skincare cleansing, FOREO is now venturing into the market of oral care with the launch of ISSA. ISSA is revolutionizing the electric toothbrush that has seemingly remained unchanged since its initial release during the 1960s. ISSA’s sonic pulse technology creates 11,000 high-intensity pulsations per minute for effective cleaning, while its silicone bristles are gentle enough for the most sensitive mouths. The Silicone Difference Unlike conventional manual toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes, the ISSA brush head is completely comprised of silicone. Silicone is non-porous, meaning it is not a hospitable atmosphere for bacteria to grow and thrive. An ISSA toothbrush will host 10,000 times less bacteria than a regular toothbrush. The ISSA is both hygienic and hypoallergenic. The silicone bristles are extremely gentle, making this brush perfect for anyone who deals with gum sensitivity, brushing too roughly or has a receding gum line. Other Features and Benefits ISSA’s ergonomically designed brush is waterproof and can be easily used in the shower. It takes only an hour for the ISSA to fully charge, unlike most electric toothbrushes. A fully charged ISSA will provide 365 uses, meaning you only have to charge it once every six months. Because the charge lasts for such an extended time and the brush is extremely hygienic, the ISSA is perfect for travel. The brush heads between the ISSA and the ISSA mini are interchangeable, so if you prefer a smaller brush head, that option is available to you. The brush head only needs to be replaced once a year. ISSA helps you maintain a proper brushing routine by alerting you of when to switch to a new quadrant of your mouth. My Review My initial reason for being excited to try the ISSA definitely had to do with the fact that it is far more hygienic than a conventional toothbrush. Over the last several months, either myself, or my boyfriend have been sick and considering our toothbrushes are communal, I have been tossing out toothbrushes left and right. Cutting down on waste is extremely important to me and considering the ISSA is not a welcoming surface for bacteria to thrive, I am all about that! Also I travel quite frequently and when you are traveling, you are continuously packing away your toothbrush, which prevents it from airing out. Have you ever smelled your in-travel toothbrush?.....Don’t lie, you know you have and its gross! The ISSA caters to my germaphobic tendencies for sure. Secondly, I was impressed by how gentle the ISSA is. The day before I first used my ISSA, I ate a bowl of cereal, which completely cut up the roof of my mouth and had inflamed my lower gum line. When I brushed my teeth with my manual toothbrush, after that cereal oral assault, I experienced sensitivity and gum pain. The next time I brushed my teeth after that, and while my gum line was still inflamed, I used the ISSA. I experienced no pain what so ever! Overall I am impressed with the ISSA. I believe it is just as effective as a normal toothbrush, all while being far more hygienic. It will remain as part of my oral care routine. Try out the all-new FOREO Issa today.     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.

  BEAUTY BEYOND COSMETICS Every aspect of the skincare device has been rethought and redesigned. The LUNA™ & LUNA™ mini both use T-Sonic™ Technology to both cleanse the skin as well as apply skincare products. The devices are designed to penetrate the skin deeper, boost cell renewal and increase blood flow. This device is very exciting for us to launch and we are very interested in seeing how it sells against its "competition" <cough cough> Clarisonic <cough cough>. THE FOREO REVOLUTION T-Sonic™  Technology - Up to 8,000 pulsations per minute   Soft Silicone Brush Design - Nonabrasive silicone touch points Integrated Battery - Up to 450 uses from a single charge Fully Waterproof - For regular use in the bath or shower 2-Year Warranty - Unrivalled quality and assurance Exceptional Value - Requires no replacement brushes Adjustable Intensities - Comfortable and simple to use Hygienic & Body-Safe - Nonporous and resistant to bacteria      LUNA™THE REVOLUTIONARY NEW ANTI-AGING AND FACIAL-CLEANSING SYSTEM   The  LUNA™is categorized by SKIN TYPE: Pink - Sensitive/Normal Skin Blue - Combination Skin White - Ultra-Sensitive Skin   LUNA™mini THE WORLD'S FIRST T-SONIC™ FACIAL-CLEANSING BRUSH The LUNA™ mini is for ALL skin types but comes in 5 different colors: Cool Grey Magenta Purple Petal Pink Turquoise Blue   FOREO launched in 2013 after 10 years of research and development, offering intelligent solutions that cater to all aspects of skincare and well-being. With an initial launch of the LUNA™ anti-aging and facial-cleansing brush systems, FOREO is set to define itself on the basis of superior-quality products that bring outstanding benefits to people's lives.  Rave reviews already! “it’s perfect to use while you shower” UnfinishedMan.com January 11, 2013   “LUNA™ mini challenges the Clarisonic” Hello Cotton by Addicted to Beauty March 4, 2013   “the device is gentle yet effective on the skin” CNET Asia January 10, 2013   “a landmark sonic facial-cleansing device” TechFever.net January 11, 2013 Shop FOREO Now! Written by: Danielle Jones | Marketing Coordinator | askderm #SkinCareExpert #BBloggers #BeautyIsMyWorld #MakingYouFeelBeautiful #OneBlogAtATime #SocialMedia #SocialMarketing #Shopaskderm #topbrands #expertadvice #beautifulskin

Today there are several different cleansing devices to choose from. Honestly, choosing one is very subjective. Your skin type and lifestyle will dictate which device is more appropriate for you. While it is not realistic to think that everyone can own both, I am fortunate enough to own and use both daily. Both devices have their own unique purpose in my skin care regiment. The time of the day, my current skin concern, and my mood all determine which device I reach for. The Clarisonic There is a reason this is the top selling device. This deep cleansing tool has a cult like following. Dermatologists recommend it and some estheticians use it within their facial services. The Clarisonic is a go-to when you want the feeling of a really deep cleanse from bristles. $119 I use my Clarisonic Mia every night after I remove my makeup.Just like your vehicle needs regular maintenance to ensure it is in excellent running condition, so does the Clarisonic. The device must be washed thoroughly after each use and allowed to dry. Once a week the brush head should be soaked for 5 minutes in either alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, or better yet, ask your Esthetician to soak it in Barbicide while you are having your brows sculpted or receiving a facial.  Just like your toothbrush, the brush head on the Clarisonic must be disposed of and replaced every three months. Most people will only need the sensitive brush head, which is the brush included with purchase. If you or your teen are in any way lazy or lack in the hygiene department, the Clarisonic may not be right for you as you risk re-depositing bacteria on your skin if the Clarisonic is not properly maintained. Also, if you are a busy person and do not have the time to charge your Clarisonic twice a month, over night, you may find yourself in the position I recently did while on vacation. On the second day into my trip, my Clarisonic did not have a charge and I had to use my hands to cleanse for the remainder of my vacation. The FOREO LUNA While newer to the market, the FOREO Luna is soon to be as well known as the Clarisonic. It is low maintenance due to the fact it is made from non-porous silicone, meaning it cannot harbor and grow bacteria. There are no brush heads to replace. You can get up to 450 uses off one charge. The full size Luna’s and the Luna Mini are perfect for anyone on the go. The Luna Mini is perfect for teens and uses a USB to charge.  $139 Depending on how my skin feels, I use either my Luna Mini or the Luna Ultra-sensitive every morning. There is an added feature to all of the full sized Luna’s, that being the anti-aging low frequency mode. This low, sonic vibration relaxes residual muscle tension, lessening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin’s firmness.  I recommend the full sized Luna for anyone who is concerned about premature aging and sagging skin. $199.99 After my bedtime cleanse, I use my Ultra-Sensitive Luna in the anti-aging mode to help penetrate my night serums to my face, neck, décolleté and the backs of my hands.Whether you choose the FOREO Luna or The Clarisonic, you are receiving multiple benefits. Cleansing devices are more effective than hand washing alone at removing dirt, makeup and other impurities. You can choose any cream or gel based cleanser of your choice. The Clarisonic and the FOREO Luna both use sonic technology, unlike the drugstore brand cleansing brushes that simply rotate and rely on batteries you must frequently replace. Both devices are completely waterproof and the best part of all- because you received a more thorough cleanse, all your other products go on smoother, penetrate better and give you better results than ever before.  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! 

FOREO has made several changes to their original FOREO Luna devices - they recently released their 2nd generation LUNA devices. What makes these 2nd Generation devices different from the original LUNA devices? 36% thicker silicone for a plusher and softer body that feels wonderful to hold and use, and better diffuses T-Sonic™ and anti-aging pulsations for enhanced results 50% larger brush head covers more area for more efficient cleansing 26% longer touch-points are gentler on the skin and improve reach so no area is left un-cleansed FOREO LUNA PLAY The Luna Play, is Foreo's smallest device. The device is priced at $39 and comes fully charged and ready to use. It contains a non rechargeable battery for up to 100 uses. It is the perfect way to determine whether or not you like it enough to invest in a full size Luna device. It's a great way to test out the Foreo technology and get an idea of whether it is something you can imagine incorporating into your everyday skin routine. FOREO LUNA mini 2 vs LUNA mini The all new LUNA mini 2 comes with a 2nd generation brush head. 2nd Generation Brush Head: 36% thicker silicone for a plusher and softer body that feels wonderful to hold and use, and better diffuses T-Sonic™ and anti-aging pulsations for enhanced results 50% larger brush head covers more area for more efficient cleansing 26% longer touch-points are gentler on the skin and improve reach so no area is left un-cleansed FOREO LUNA 2 vs FOREO LUNA  The FOREO LUNA 2 device is available in four colors tailored to match specific skincare needs--normal, sensitive, combination, and oily.  The FOREO LUNA comes in Sensitive/Normal, Ultra Sensitive, & Combination. The 2nd generation devices no longer offer an Ultra Sensitive device but instead offer a device specifically targeted for normal skin and one for sensitive skin. While the overall size of the original LUNA and the LUNA 2 are the same, the surface area of the brush head has increased by 50%. The touch points are longer and softer in the LUNA 2. The larger brush head and longer touch points allows for deeper cleansing making the LUNA 2 more effective. Both devices utilize T-Sonic pulsations with 8,000 pulsations per minute however, the LUNA 2 has 2X the T-Sonic power over the original. The original LUNA has eight different speeds while the Luna 2 has twelve. The reverse anti-aging side has 10 rings on the LUNA 2 covers more surface space which allows for faster coverage of the entire face. FOREO LUNA Pro Incorporating 8 varying intensities, the LUNA™ Professional channels lower frequency pulsations directly onto wrinkle prone areas, diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving skin looking radiant, smoother and younger.  The 4-zone brush is suitable for all skin types. The LUNA PRO comes with 8 intensities. 2nd Generation Brush Heads: 2nd Generation Brush Head: 36% thicker silicone for a plusher and softer body that feels wonderful to hold and use, and better diffuses T-Sonic™ and anti-aging pulsations for enhanced results 50% larger brush head covers more area for more efficient cleansing 26% longer touch-points are gentler on the skin and improve reach so no area is left un-cleansed (click on the chart to view bigger).

askderm Pin It To Win It Contest! askderm invites everyone to share their secrets and inspire others to be beautiful -- and also gives you a chance to win an exciting Grand Prize.    Grand Prize One grand prize winner will receive a FOREO LUNA mini in Petal Pink ($139 value)! This brand new product was just launched this year and we JUST received it this week! We have a feeling this new beauty device will be flying off the shelves and will be the NEW IT product. So here is your chance to TRY IT for FREE! Who doesn't love being ahead of the trends -- or better yet -- helping start them!   How to Enter (You must have or create a Pinterest account to enter)     1.    Create a NEW Inspiration Board on your Pinterest account with the title "Beautiful Skin – Thanks AskDerm!".     2.    Then, browse our website (askderm) and start pinning your favorite products and images. Add comments to your pins about why you love that product and why you use it. We also welcome and encourage you to pin your own images/inspirational messages with our products!     3.    Pin a minimum of 10 product images from our website to qualify. Of course, if you are inspired to pin more, please do!     4.    After you’ve started, add your name and a link to your board in the comments of this blog post.  This will automatically enter you in the drawing to WIN! Contest will run from 5/22/2013 - 5/28/2013 - Good luck & Happy Pinning!

Congratulations Sarah! Thank you to all who participated in our very first Pinterest contest! We are happy to announce that Sarah will be receiving a top of the line brand NEW device that has just launched this year! The FOREO LUNA mini in Petal Pink!  This cleansing device will help deep clean and improve overall skin health revealing a glowing complexion! The mini is designed for ALL skin types and you use it with your daily cleanser 2x a day. If you are interested in our FOREO product line you can view it online by Clicking Here!

The school season is upon us. Time to put your best face forward and strive for success. These skincare products surely make the grade. FOREO Mini: Maintaining a routine is the key to success in the classroom and at home. The FOREO makes skincare more enjoyable and has effective results, meaning you are more likely to stick with it and incorporate face washing into your morning and evening routine. This device is more effective at removing oil, makeup and grime from your face than hand washing alone. Because the FOREO Mini only needs to be charged every six months or so, you will never find yourself with an uncharged device on the same morning you slept through your alarm! The bright color selection makes it fun to coordinate and personalize your Mini. ACURE Facial Cleansing Gel: Did the bill for this semester’s books leave you penniless? Not to worry, the pocket-book friendly price of this cleanser will have you singing its praise (in the shower of course!). How a company can produce a skincare line that not only works but is also eco-friendly, chock full of healthy ingredients AND is inexpensive warrants some sort of study! This product removes makeup and oil with ease, yet it will not over dry the skin. The Antioxidants work to combat breakouts while preventing premature aging. The FOREO Mini and this gel cleanser are the ultimate dream team! The scent is a slightly sweet citrus, reminiscent of lemonade stands from past childhood summers….Aaaaahhhhh… mybody myHelper Acne Spot Treatment: This convenient click pen acne treatment is perfect for a student on the go. It can be tossed into your practice bag and is perfect for combating acne caused by sweat and dirt that accumulates during sport activities. The concentrated benzoyl peroxide formula quickly kills acne bacteria and stimulates cellular turnover to heal blemishes, keeping your skin clear without the harsh irritation that some acne products create. Blinc Mascara: While a full face with heavy eye makeup may not be practical or appropriate for class, mascara worn on its own, creates an opened-eye look. Mascara makes you look bright eyed, healthy and well rested, even if you pulled an all-nighter studying for an exam. Blinc was the pioneer of non-flaking, tube-technology mascara. This product will not run or transfer onto your lower or upper lash line, making it perfect for someone active or who has little time between classes to touch-up. 21 Drops Focus: The essential oil blend is formulated to jump-start your brainpower, helping you to “focus” on the task at hand, while eliminating distractions. This aromatherapy product is all-natural and has its roots in a science and study that is centuries old. The vial is spill-proof, has an easy roller-ball applicator and is enclosed in a protective, rubbery silicone sleeve. Simply toss into your backpack or purse and apply as often as needed. Studying has now become so much easier!     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.

Technological advances in skincare have led to the rise of skincare devices and tools within the skincare market and their popularity grows annually. Whether you are a know-it-all tech junkie or are a newbie feeling overwhelmed by all the different gadgets and choices, here is a simple way to navigate through choosing which skincare device is right for you! FOREO mini: This is the perfect starter device and is suitable for all skin types. If you are trying to get a teen to take their skincare more seriously, this is a great way to get them interested in washing their face. This device is not only ideal for teens but anyone looking to get a deeper cleanse, with 8,000 pulsations per minute. There is little maintenance with this transdermal device, as the cleansing surface is silicon and cannot harbor bacteria. There are no brush heads to replace and the tool is completely waterproof. All FOREO tools hold a charge for what seems like forever! It only needs to be charged about every six months. The Mini’s compact size also makes it perfect for travel. PMD: The personal microderm is for anyone who is looking to change and refine the texture/tone of their skin. Like in-office microdermabrasion, this device combines the exfoliation of aluminum oxide crystals with the plumping effect of the wand’s suction. The PMD is ideal for anyone struggling with the size of their pores, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles around the mouth, forehead or between the brow. FOREO Luna: If you are looking to streamline your routine and beauty tools, this device offers both the benefits of a deep transdermal cleanse and the anti-aging benefits of low frequency. During your normal cleansing routine, use the deep cleaning pulse point side. After your cleanse, apply your favorite serum, essence or moisturizer, flip over the device and use the anti-aging mode to help your treatment products penetrate deeply. Just like the mini, the Luna rarely needs to be charged, is anti-microbial, has no brush heads to replace and is waterproof. NuFace Trinity: This is an FDA-cleared microcurrent tool, which helps to train the contours of the face. Helping to give a more youthful appearance by improving the apples of the cheeks and redefining the jaw line, while also reducing the appearance of fine lines. The firming effect of this tool is often associated with the term “Five minute face lift.” This skincare device has a red-light therapy attachment that can be used to stimulate collagen and elastin. The NuFace is for anyone looking to treat the most severe effects of aging without fillers, botox or plastic surgery. All of these skincare devices can be found at askderm.com!   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.

Holiday Gift Guide The Holiday season is one of the most joyful times of year for a lot of us, but figuring out which gifts to give each one of the special people in our lives can add a lot of pressure this time of year. Whether you’re looking to spoil someone special, stuff your stockings with flair or to pamper yourself, these are my most recent obsessions that will make the gift giving season stress free and totally beautiful from head to toe. Spa Queens NuFace Gold Trinity Collection: A good trip to the spa never hurt anyone and NuFace Gold Trinity Collection brings all the spa results and glamor right into your home! This kit includes the NuFace Trinity Device with Facial Trainer Attachment which uses microcurrent technology to improve and sculpt the contours of the whole face without the downtime and cost of a facelift. The kit also includes a complete skincare regimen that uses hyaluronic acid to keep the skin moisturized all day to prolong the results. The Fashionista SmoothSkin Bare: There is no better fashion accessory than smooth and hairless skin. This mini laser hair removal device is totally safe for any area of the body (yes including the face!) and will give you the lasting results that shaving doesn’t deliver. This device scans your skin tone and will only activate if its safe and has both glide and stamp treatment modes to make hair removal a total breeze. Its time to leave razor bumps and ingrown hairs behind us and give the gift of confidence to someone you love! The World Traveler Foreo Luna Mini 2: This multi-tasking silicone cleansing brush uses sonic pulsing to gently wisp away rough dead skin cells. It is totally travel friendly, easy to clean and leaves your skin feeling dewy cleansed and totally invigorated. Healthy cleansing and exfoliation is encouraged no matter the skin type or age and it comes in a variety of colors which makes it a great gift choice that your friend or loved one can take anywhere they go! Busy Bees Skin Up Misting System- Fico & Rosa + Fragrance Free Facial Moisturizers with Ultra Sonic Device: Whether you’re a busy mom or building your empire you can have all beauty results of a 2 hour beauty routine just in the push of a button! The Skin Up Misting System is an easy to use misting device that can be used any time and anywhere as a moisturizing base after washing your face or to refresh your makeup. It even comes with a convenient carrying case and USB cord to make throwing it in your bag and taking it with you completely care free!   Coworker Beautility BeautiScoop: We all have our favorite products that we swear by. Why not give your coworkers up to 25% more of their favorite beauty products? Beautility Beauty Scoop is a dual sided and flexible scoop that will help you get those last uses out of all of your favorite products that end up getting lost to the bottle. Everyone loves to save money and the BeautiScoop helps save up to $250 a year in beauty products. This essential beauty tool makes the perfect small gift or stocking stuffer for any coworker or loved one. FaceOff Original Cloth: Sometimes after a long day all we want to do is put on pajamas and hop into bed but taking off your makeup can take just as long as putting it on! The FaceOff cloth makes your nighttime routine even easier and is suitable for any skin type. Its even reusable which makes it eco-friendly as well. At $10.00 this super cloth is great for stuffing stockings or bringing cheer to coworkers this holiday season. CapriClear Spray: I am a huge natural beauty advocate and we all know how magical coconut oil can be on the hair and skin. CapriClear Spray is 100% fractionated coconut oil that you can take anywhere you go. It absorbs quickly and the spray will promise even coverage so your coworkers will never have to worry if they forget to moisturize at home before coming into work.   Beautiful You Fillerina Dermo Replenishing Treatment: Don’t forget to give yourself a gift this holiday season! This Beauty Choice Award winner will inject the bounce and moisture back into your skin without the needles. This treatment kit uses a combination of 6 types of hyaluronic acids to plump up parched winter skin and fills in wrinkles and depressions. It also comes with a nourishing film that uses skin loving ingredients such as Vitamin E, Meadowfoam Seed Oil and Shea Butter to leave your skin velvety soft. These treatments come in 3 different options depending on your skin type and wrinkle severity so you know you are getting the best results possible. Clearista Retexturizing Gel: With winter weather comes dry rough skin, pigmentation and bumps. Don’t let your skin keep you from going out to celebrate the holidays because this “O” Magazine featured gel will keep you party ready no matter what. Clearista aids your skin’s natural exfoliation process and can be used all over the face and body to give you your glow back and fits into any skincare routine so you don’t have to retire any of your favorite products.   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! 

I am not sure if in my professional career, I have ever been this excited about a skincare company, EVER! I have been a vegetarian for over half of my life. 90% of the groceries I bring into my home are organic. Lastly, I am a stickler about recycling- I even recycle the little paper tags off clothing I purchase! It makes me feel good when my work life can coincide with my personal morals that I practice at home. ACURE is a company with ethics. This natural and organic company has chosen a sustainable, eco-friendly and cruelty-free approach. Best of all, all of these good-for-the-people and good-for-the-earth products are completely affordable! Not one item is over 30 dollars.     ACURE is free from: Animal Testing Parabens Sulfates Phtalates Synthetic Fragrances Harmful Preservatives Artificial Color Gluten Sodium Chloride   Benefits to Choosing Organic Agriculture grown in this manor is free from toxic synthetic pesticides and other chemicals that could potentially enter our soil, water and our bodies. Aside from limiting your exposure to toxins, supporting organic practices may mean not contributing to the frightening bee population crisis. Choosing ACURE means supporting smaller family farms with strong personal connections to the land they are farming and love.   Other "Green" Benefits of ACURE -ACURE is a Green-e certified company with a neutral carbon footprint -100% of their office and manufacturing practices are produced using wind and solar power -All the products are 100% biodegradable and break down safely as to not pollute our water -The packaging is made from recycled materials and certified sustainable wood   If the “tree hugger” inside of you is not impressed, then maybe the science behind ACURE will entice you. There are two key ingredients in this line:   Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF): Chlorella is a single-cell algae rich in nucleic acids. CGF is clinically proven to protect collagen and elastin fibers, making it a key anti-aging ingredient. Clinical studies have shown that CGF increases collagen expression by 333% in a 1% concentration.   Curoxidant Blend: This blend is a combination of five organic fruits and herbs (Acai, pomegranate, black berry, rosehip and roobis) that are potent in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals.     My Favorites While I have not tried every single product within the line (Trust me, I will get there!), these are some of my favorites so far: Sensitive Facial Cleanser- Normally when I think about a fragrance free, mild cleanser, I think about something that is lack luster. This cleanser is anything but! It is so rich and creamy. I love this paired with a cleansing device like my FOREO Luna mini. I have oily skin but have issues using cleansers with salicylic acid, as they over sensitize my skin. This cleanser leaves your skin feeling clean yet hydrated with argan oil, probiotics and pumpkin seed oil.   Brightening Facial Scrub- Just like the cleanser changed my mind about fragrance free cream cleansers, this scrub has me changing my position on a physical exfoliant. I do not like scrubs, normally they are too gritty and they over-sensitize the skin. Nothing gives an esthetician an unpleasant twitch like an apricot scrub, ugh.  This scrub does not leave your skin feeling like you just put hundreds of tiny tears into its surface. It is loaded in sea kelp and contains French green clay. Because it contains clay, after I massage it into my skin I like to leave it on in the shower for five minutes. It acts as a mini-mask and pulls out impurities. I use this scrub two times a week so my face feels extra smooth and clean!   Oil Control Facial Moisturizer- This moisturizer has gotten me through this way-too-long winter. My oily skin easily becomes dehydrated, and while most moisturizers for my skin-type feel watery and pointless, this one is rich yet soaks in nicely. Lilac stem cells control oil production and help heal blemishes.   Cell Stimulating Facial Mask- This is a mask for everyone. It contains French green clay to draw out impurities, while adding moisture to the skin from Moroccan argan oil, CoQ10 and Sea buckthorn oil. Unlike other clay masks, this one does not require a lot of friction to remove. Add water to your fingertips and it actually begins to foam. Use circular motions as if you were washing your face prior to splashing with water. Eye Cream- This eye product performs better than some 200-dollar creams I have tried! You get a lot of product in this tube. Even better, you can use it around the entire eye area, unlike some eye creams, which are not recommended for the lid. This has definitely improved the crepiness underneath my eyes and my concealer is not settling into creases any longer.   A lot of people make comments about wanting to “Go green”, but then proclaim  “I don’t have the space or time for a compost bin”, as if that is their only way to not negatively contribute to environmental problems. There are FAR more ways to limit your carbon footprint. Something as easy as choosing a specific product line can help! That is a simple choice that can add up if you think about how many bottles of lotions and creams are sitting in your medicine cabinet. For me, the money I am saving because ACURE is so affordable, makes it easier for me to purchase and prepare that organic/ vegan kale and quinoa salad I love so much!   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! 

Need an idea for a gift? Need an excuse to treat yourself this Holiday Season? Well here is my list of the Top 10 BEST Gifts of 2013!1. FOREO T-Sonic Cleansing/Anti-Aging Device ($139-$299) 2. Clarisonic Sonic Cleansing Systems ($125-$204)3. meSmooth At Home Professional Laser Hair Removal System4. Osmosis Colour5. Nip+Fab Viper Venom Wrinkle Fix6. VB Beauty Infusor Tool Kit7. NIA 24 Healthy Skin Regimen Kit8. TURO Starter Kit9. Neostrata Skin Active Starter Kit10. Wilma Schumann Holiday KitThese products are great skincare gifts, because they are perfect for a wide range of skin types - all within different price points. They all promote healthy skin and will help treat and protect your skin against aging. So here is the breakdown on WHY I think these are the BEST gifts for 2013! 1. FOREO is a no brainer for me. I have been a fan since the moment we set eyes on this device at a beauty show in April. I personally LOVE mine and have several people completely hooked on this device! The range starts at $139 for the LUNA mini. This is great for ANYONE:  teenagers, men, travel, the gym & the beauty savvy guru on a budget. The LUNA ($199.99) is available in 3 colors that are targeted to your individual skin type, so this is a little more tricky for a present. They even have a LUNA for Men (also $199.99). The LUNA for Men is going to be the hottest new trend for men, not only does it promote healthy skin but it truly gives men the ultimate shave when you use this first! You will be surprised how much your guy will end up loving this fancy tool after they start using it! Then we have the all mighty and powerful LUNA Pro. The Pro is $299, but any skin type can use it & it has twin motors to really focus on both cleansing and anti-aging. Trust me. You will feel the difference immediately. This is currently a HOT item at askderm - mainly because we are lucky enough to be one of the only online retailers who sell the Pro! 2. Clarisonic is also no surprise to be on the list. It has and will continue to be one of the most popular gift giving items across the board! Teenagers, Woman, Men - basically everyone LOVES the Clarisonic! It has really turned into quite the big deal. We have devices ranging from $125 for the Mia all the way to the Aria that is $204. Don't forget if you gave someone a device last year - the Replacement Brush Heads are great stocking stuffers this year! We carry a large variety of Clarisonic accessories and devices so we have something for everyone! 3. meSmooth. I really can not tell you enough how exciting I am to be selling this product! It is truly one of the only at home professional laser hair removal systems on the market right now! I can personally tell you - this system ROCKS! I am only on week 5 of 7 treatments & I already am seeing actual results. How excited would someone you love be to receive this?! The WINTER is the PERFECT time to invest in this gadget! Why? Because - your all bundled up so no one notices your skin. How amazing would it be when spring and summer comes around to NOT have to shave! Not have to worry about your skin having stubble instead of being smooth? Oh and not have to pay THOUSANDS of dollars and make appointments and rush around during your "lunch break". Yup. Thats right. $395 for the device & $50 for replacement cartridges. 7 weeks to beautiful hair free skin! I wouldn't be so excited about this one if I didn't see the results myself. PLUS: you can absolutely share this! You can buy 1 device and each person get their own cartridge and viola instant savings! Ok. I could go on forever - but on to the next gift. 4. Osmosis Colour is our newest addition to our mineral makeup category. I have used everything from Jane Iredale, Bare Minerals, Colorescience, even products like ForeverMakeup. This is my new crush. I can't get enough. I am a simple lady when it comes to my makeup. I really like to look natural. I am also very busy with 2 toddlers. So simple, lightweight, natural, flawless coverage and long lasting is crucial to me. The Osmosis Colour is all of the above and more. Plus, this may sound really strange - but it smells AMAZING! I love how you can really build your coverage and by the end of the work day you still look how you did when you came in! This is starting to really expand too - perfect for Holiday Photos, Family Portraits, Senior Pictures coming up. It photographs flawlessly.  5. Nip+Fab Viper Venom Wrinkle Fix is on here for multiple reasons. Clearly its a hot new product. It is also flying off our shelves and is UNDER $20! Honestly I would suggest any Nip+Fab or Nip+Man product as a great stocking stuffer! It is an amazing line with a wide variety of products. I know I will be gifting it to my friends and family this year! 6. VB Beauty has a cool eye Sonic Infusor Tool that comes in a kit with a product. This neato device really helps correct and honestly relax the eye area! It works amazingly on puffy eyes (like I stated above - I have 2 toddlers & sometimes I wake up looking & feeling like a zombie so I grab for my VB Beauty Infusor tool to help get rid of those scary looking bags under my eyes). For $25 - on sale now for a limited time offer - you can NOT go wrong by getting this for your friends or family! 7. NIA 24 has a great kit called the Healthy Skin Regimen Kit. This is perfect for ALL skin types and for any age. The NIA 24 products are geared towards not only preventing and protecting but also correcting any signs of aging or damage done t your skin. So if you have any questions as to what type of skin or what skincare products your special person in your life would be using then I would highly suggest this. My personal FAV is the physical cleansing scrub. I can not live without this. It is life changing.8. TURO is all for the Man in your life. Or Men. I gave my guy the Starter Kit: Cleanse / Shave / Moisturize for his birthday this year and not only does he actually use it. He loves it. I may also sneak some of the body wash every once in a while because it just smells so good and your skin feels amazing! Men skincare is the biggest thing right now, even at the drugstore I have noticed Men's lines popping up all over. Keep your man looking slick with these products! He will thank you, even if he is hesitant to use it at first!9. Neostrata has a full range of very effective anti-aging products. They offer a Skin Active Comprehensive Antiaging Regimen that is a 4 piece kit that will offer great results and would be a great way to interdict anti-aging products to say, your mom or an aunt or co-worker! I am fast approaching the 30's so I do not necessarily need these items yet, but I have given them as gifts a few times and have received rave reviews of the product afterwards! 10. Last but not least is the Wilma Schumann Holiday Kit! This is a must have on this list! It comes in the cutest bag and is packed full of Wilma Schumann goodies! The Collagen Booster Pads will change your life, the O2 Oxygen Blu is great for all skin types and the Collagen 2000 & Liposome Eye Contour are perfect for anti-aging! This kit really does have it all and works for such a wide variety of skin types anyone would fall in love with it as a gift! So there is my list of whats hot this Holiday Season. Check the products out, if you have any questions or need more information just give a shout and we can help with your gift buying this Holiday Season! (Even if it is a present for yourself!) Stay beautiful.Dani. askderm bblogger.

Osmotics is a “SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN TECHNOLOGY” product line – its written right on the box! With cutting edge technology that is proven through double blind studies in major medical centers you are sure to see results! As they say, “serious skincare for serious results”. When you choose Osmotics you are purchasing not only an elegant product that has all the cosmetic bells and whistles, but it also has the purest, highest quality ingredients that will leave you feeling beautiful. A personal touch from the Founder, Francine Porter - “Less is more: Skin can easily be over treated (over cleansed, over moisturized, over exfoliated). Skin reacts most favorably to a simple regimen using a minimum number of products. Our system eliminates extremes and allows the skin to maintain a state of balance and health.   Only the Finest Ingredients in our Formulations: We use the highest quality and purest form of botanicals, antioxidants, vitamins and natural oils. We do not add artificial colors, fragrances, mineral oils or unnecessary additives. Anti-aging Cosmeceuticals/Cutting Edge Technology: Our anti-aging products incorporate the most advanced thinking and technology available. We utilize patented technologies from the biotech/medical field that have undergone independent clinical testing to provide you with clinically proven benefits. Results: We believe in the intelligence of our consumers. “Hope in a bottle” no longer applies. We do not promise miracles but we do promise RESULTS. Great skin can happen at any age, it is up to you.”   More about what “SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN TECHNOLOGY” actually means. “Each Osmotics Cosemeceutical product is developed in concert with our distinguished panel of scientific advisors – internationally renowned dermatologists and anti aging clinicians.” So basically, you can purchase Osmotics products with confidence and hope that you will create your own simplified anti-aging skincare regimen with results!   Four easy steps to remember for healthy and younger looking skin (this is truly for everyone – and a great rule of thumb for all skincare regimens):  Step 1 – Always cleanse your skin morning and night!   *Tip: Cleanse twice each time. First to remove makeup & second to cleanse the skin and get it prepared to absorb your treatment and moisturizing products. For a more effective cleanse try a cleansing device like the FOREO LUNA’s or a Clarisonic Cleansing Device.  Step 2 – Use a targeted treatment or correcting product for your biggest concern.  *Tip: Use a serum for deeper penetration. Pick your biggest concern like either, anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, dull complexion, acne or dry skin. Always allow product to fully absorb before applying your next step. Treatments should be used morning and night for optimal results unless otherwise noted in directions or by physician.  Step 3 – Moisturize your skin, aka Defend. All skin types need to moisturize the skin to keep it healthy. This means even oily skin! Moisturizers now also include many anti-aging benefits like antioxidants or peptides to help fight free radicals and provide an instant plumping effect to the skin.  *Tip: For normal to dry skin use a heavier cream based moisturizer, while combination to oily skin should look for a lotion with key words such as “oil-free”. Also, to get more out of your products look for buzz words such as: hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, ceramides, coconut oil, and DNA.  Step 4 – Protect your skin from sun exposure and UVA and UVB rays. Apply SPF every morning while getting ready and do not forget to reapply as needed. It isn’t stressed enough how important SPF truly is in your anti-aging regimen. Really, in every regimen! Protect yourself from not only damaging/aging rays – but why risk skin cancer.  *Tip: For everyday use (YES YEAR ROUND) use a SPF that is formulated specifically for the face. Then have your go to body SPF for outdoor activities. A lot of the facial SPF’s have even more benefits that you may not realize. Now that you are on skincare, product, & Osmotics overload, let us know if you have any further questions! We have a Customer Service Team that is full of expert advice and can help assist you with any product, skincare or order questions you may have.  top brands + expert advice = beautiful skin  Written by: Danielle Jones | Marketing Coordinator | askderm #SkinCareExpert #BBloggers #BeautyIsMyWorld #MakingYouFeelBeautiful #OneBlogAtATime #SocialMedia #SocialMarketing #Shopaskderm #topbrands #expertadvice #beautifulskin

Often I am asked about the specific products I use, how often I use them and in what order. While my routine and the products that I use are geared towards my specific skin type (oily/acneic), there are still take-a-ways that anyone could incorporate into their routine. How I Cleanse at Night: A nightly cleanse is for removing makeup, bacteria and skin pollutants that may have adhered to the skin’s surface via your own sebum. Secondly, nighttime skin routines are for treatment and recuperation of the skin. Basically it is the most important time to wash your face. Never skip a night cleanse! Step 1: I remove my makeup with a cleansing oil or a makeup wipe. You may think putting oil on an oily skin type is counterintuitive, but on the contrary, how I use skin oil is very important. We have all heard the saying “Go together like oil and water”. The point being that oil and water do not mix. Oil binds to oil and because of this I apply my cleansing oil to dry, not damp skin. The cleansing oil binds to the oils in my makeup and the sebum within my pores. I massage the oil directly onto my skin, then I add water to my fingertips and massage further. This oil and water emulsion helps breakdown waterproof mascara and helps lift the sebum from the follicle. For stubborn liquid lipstick I love to use ACURE Coconut Argan oil Towelettes prior to the cleansing oil. Steps 2 & 3: Double cleansing is a must! Anyone who wears makeup should be double cleansing. It is nearly impossible to remove all makeup residue and prep the skin for treatment with just one washing alone. I love using ACURE Facial Cleansing Gel in conjunction with my FOREO Luna for combination skin. I do not necessarily use my Luna for both cleanses but usually on the second cleanse. Step 4: Exfoliation with a manual scrub. While the Luna does exfoliate, my acneic skin requires more. This step is not for everyone (or at least not as often as I am doing it). My skin type is accompanied by retention hyperkeratosis, so I need to keep on top of those accumulating skin cells! The current scrub I am obsessing over is ACURE’s new Pore minimizing scrub. From the title you may be lead to believe this could quite possible be an extremely gritty scrub, but it is not. I would classify it as being a less aggressive scrub than the ACURE Brightening Facial Scrub, because it’s textural component is comprised of jojoba beads. Though I think both scrubs are great, the spherical shape of the jojoba beads lends to a mild, yet effective exfoliation. Moroccan red clay draws impurities from the skin as well. The Pore minimizing scrub smells amazing, like some fruity candy not sanctioned by my vegan diet, yet totally indulgent. Since using this scrub my face feels so much softer to the touch. Step 5: Believe it or not I may still have makeup on the surface of my skin, so I swipe Ren’s Centifolia 3 in 1 Cleansing Water over my skin with a cotton round to remove any remaining makeup. This cleansing water is so gentle and does not disturb the acid mantle. Step 6: I gently dab Derma e Firming DMAE Eye Lift around my eyes using my ring ringer. I started using eye cream at 15 years old and this has been one of my favorites thus far. Step 7: I apply Pangea Organics’ Moroccan Argan w/ Willow & Rosemary Facial Cream to my face and neck. Keeping oily skin hydrated is key. If oily skin becomes dehydrated sebum production will go into overdrive. This facial cream keeps my skin healthy without feeling too heavy or greasy. Variations on my Routine: I let my skin tell me what it needs. About three times a week I sweep Professional Solutions Salicylic Acid Exfoliator over my T-zone to help with my abundance of blackheads. If I choose to use this product I do so after I cleanse my face and prior to applying moisturizer. Also it should be noted that if my skin were feeling overly dehydrated or sensitive that night, I would certainly skip this product’s application. Once a week I use my PMD after I cleanse. This microdermabrasion device helps eliminate any discoloration from healed blemishes and removes any flakiness from around my nostrils. I never, ever use the salicylic acid post PMD! That would most likely be too harsh for anyone’s skin and cause sensitivity issues. After the use of my personal microdermabrasion device, I like to soothe and nourish my skin with a mask. ACURE’s Cell Stimulating Mask is a go-to, as well as Rodial’s Dragon’s Blood Hyluranic Mask. This mask reduces any redness or sensitivity I may be experiencing post treatment. On the nights that my skin is feeling good post cleanse- not overly oily, no sensitivity, no major outbreaks I like to use Derma e’s Overnight Peel in place of my moisturizer. This contains AHAs and is great as a gentle anti-aging product. While I am constantly fighting oil, acne and blackheads I am also trying to fight aging in my 30s! With my career centering on skincare, I get to test out and experiment with quite a large variety of brands and products, but what anyone at home can take away from this is knowing the order in which to use certain products. What is also of equal importance is thoroughly removing all traces of that day’s makeup so that your treatment products can penetrate more readily and be more effective!     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.