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October is one of my favorite times of year because at the end of it, after I’ve drowned myself in everything pumpkin, I get to dress up! Want to be a deer this year for Halloween, all you need is a brown shirt, some deer ears & this adorable doe eyed makeup look that is quick and easy to do. Here is a popular and pretty simple Halloween makeup idea. I used the Blinc Eyeliner pen in black (perfect for fine details) and like organic skincare line's sour cherry cleansing milk which is perfect for not only removing the makeup but also everyday use. For all the colors except for black I just used a regular drug store Halloween makeup kit. How To Makeup: The Deer: Start with a clean face and apply your normal foundation, if you choose to use cream makeup do not apply powder over your foundation or the creams will not blend as well.   Next bronze up the apples of the cheeks all the way back to where your ear connects with your face. I used a cream contour color from my regular makeup set for this step.   Next I used my Blinc eyeliner pen in black and drew two lines down the side of my nose and a line across my nose about where my nostrils are. I then filled in my nose, blacked out my cupids bow and top lip. I filled in my eyebrows with a fawn brown eyebrow pencil and made them look a little bushy and messy since the look we are going for is a deer look.   I then used my white cream makeup and filled in the area from about mid cheek up and mid forehead down, lining around my eyes as close as possible and down the bridge and sides of my nose. I then took my eyeliner pen with the assistance of the black Halloween cream makeup and drew lines in the inner v-corner of my eye and down below my bottom lid out and added some white dots on the rest of the brown part of my cheek. Lastly I added lots of mascara (fake eyelashes would be good as well) and some soft red lip stain on my bottom lip. That's it! All you need to finish the look is the ears and fawn colored outfit! If you don’t like the deer idea my fiance told me it reminded him of a brown spotted dog, so dog ears would be a fun alternative as well! If you need an idea for a couples costume, do the deer look and make the other half the hunter! It’s cute and funny all rolled into one easy Halloween look.     Blog Written by askderm's Beauty Blogger Sydney Nichole is a self-proclaimed beauty nerd.  She stays on top of the latest makeup, hair, and beauty trends. She is an active contributor to our youtube channel with how-to-videos and talking about beauty products.

The IPKN Artist Wave Auto Makeup Applicator is an answer to every makeup lover's prayers. I am not kidding, this product did such an amazing job with applying my liquid foundation that I have literally forgotten where I placed my old foundation brush. This little device is unlike any other I have ever seen for foundation and I have seen them all, from fingers, to the beauty blender, and now this. The IPKN Artist Wave is easy to use and does such a flawless job that it is sure to revolutionize every user’s makeup routine. First off, the packaging is beautiful with it’s bright white box and pink accents. Once you open it, everything is laid out nicely that it’s a breeze to put together. There is some assembly required but it is so simple a three year old could do it. The package comes with the device, the required batteries, a cap for the device (covers the sponge tip), and 6 sponge tip replacements (aside from the one already on the device). The sponge applicators are anti-microbial making them cleaner than your traditional makeup brushes, which in turn is great for keeping your skin blemish free. Once you put it all together you end up with this adorable, semi egg shaped device that fits in the palm of your hand; but don’t let it’s small size fool you. Once you turn on this adorable device it does some work! The IPKN Artist Wave vibrates in your hand which aids in the application of smooth, skin looking makeup. The vibrations aren’t violent and they actually feel pretty good on your face, it has a very soothing effect. I started by dispensing my liquid foundation onto the back of my clean hand, as normal, and then lightly dipped the sponge part of the device into the makeup and turned on the Artist Wave. Now here is where the learning curve might be for some of us (at least it was for me), you do not need to press hard at all. I know for me I always associate having well blending makeup with applying a decent amount of pressure with my brush and with this device it is not at all necessary. With a light hand, glide the device all over the face, anywhere you want to apply foundation. The sponge tip on the device is flexible so, although at first glance the flat sponge may seem like it isn’t great for getting everywhere, it is! After using this device to apply my foundation, it looks flawless. Almost like I was wearing a second layer of better skin, which in all honesty is how we want our makeup to look on our skin; blended and like a more improved version of skin. Now after this worked so wonderfully for my foundation, I took a chance (with a new sponge) and applied my powder foundation and then again, tried it with my cream blush. I was completely surprised with the look of my makeup. I aspire to be the best at blending and my face was so blended and flawless looking that I was in shock! The IPKN Artist Wave is a great device to have for applying flawless and beautifully blended makeup. It is great for travel due to its compact size. It has replaced all of my makeup brushes and is an essential beauty tool in my beauty routine.   Blog Written by askderm's Beauty Blogger Sydney Nichole is a self-proclaimed beauty nerd.  She stays on top of the latest makeup, hair, and beauty trends. She is an active contributor to our youtube channel with how-to-videos and talking about beauty products.

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.

Get healthy, radiant skin this spring! Follow these tips to freshen up your skincare routine.   1. Toss Old Skincare and Makeup Products: Toss anything that's no longer working for you, isn't a fit for your skin, or is older than 2 years. Sanitize your makeup palettes and toss that grimy cosmetic bag. Replace your mascara every three months to avoid harmful bacteria. Pencils and pressed powders have a significantly longer life span than liquid and cream products and can last two years plus. Loose mineral powders are inert and cannot harbor or grow bacteria but if you are applying them with a germ-ridden brush, you are not doing your skin any favors. If the consistency, color or odor changes with any of your products, then it is time to toss and replace.   2. Wash Your Brushes: Makeup brushes and applicators are breeding grounds for oil and bacteria.If you are not regularly washing your makeup brushes, now is the time to give them a good shampoo. Its important to wash your brushes to prevent future breakouts. 3. Lighten Up: Lighten up your winter skincare regimen by swapping out heavy foundations and moisturizer for light-weight creams and water-based moisturizers. If you were using a hair mask weekly during the cold season, you may need to skip a week if you notice your hair is becoming greasy faster. 4. Wear Sunscreen: As the weather warms and we ditch our gloves and heavy sweaters, more skin is revealed and being exposed to harmful UV rays. Do not forget about parts that are regularly exposed but rarely protected, like the hands while driving. Check your sunscreen dates! Unopened they usually last a few years. Opened SPF needs to be replaced annually. Sunscreen formulas can easily become unstable due to temperature changes or from sitting so long that the formula starts to separate. This also means the sun protection ingredients may be unevenly distributed within the lotion and will not give you an even coverage of protection from the sun. Don't wait for the temperatures to warm up, wear sunscreen year-round to reduce premature skin aging. Make sure you apply generously and don't forget your neck. What are some of your skincare tips for spring?      

We all know the connotations of spring; renewal and looking forward, leaving the dark, dry and icy gloom of winter in our past. Springing forward and spring-cleaning apply not only to our homes and the length of our days but also to the health of our bodies, inside and out. Time to Exfoliate: if you don’t exfoliate head to toe on the regular, now’s the time to start. With winter’s dry heat our skin had a harder time with it’s own natural slothing and exfoliating process. Use a dry brushing method or a gentle body scrub to rid yourself of visible rough patches. You will have a closer shave and a more even sunless tanner application. 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. Eat for the Season: To receive the optimum nutrient benefits we should always choose our produce seasonally. Asparagus’ unique properties make it a stand out. Glutathione, an antioxidant found in asparagus and cruciferous vegetables, protects your body from carcinogens. For your skin, this means that asparagus can protect cells from UV damage. Asparagine, an amino acid in asparagus, helps to flush excess fluid and salt from the body, which will relieve that sluggish feeling due to bloating. Schedule a Hair appointment: If you have not had an appointment with your stylist this entire winter book one ASAP. Now is the time to receive a trim and remove any split/dead ends. Rainy weather and a fresh blowout do not mix, so get creative with braids and buns. As the humidity increases it may be harder to maintain a pin-straight, flat ironed look if your hair is naturally curly. Equally frustrating is trying to keep bouncy curls from gong limp if your hair is naturally straight, so embrace your natural hair texture as the weather warms. Change formulas: As the seasons change you may need to switch up your products. Heavy moisturizers can be swapped for lightweight lotions if you are noticing an increase in oil or perspiration on the skin. If you were using a hair mask weekly during the cold season, you may need to skip a week if you notice your hair is becoming greasy faster. Spring Cleaning: No it’s not just for cleaning dusty corners or dirty windows in your home. Spring-cleaning applies to your beauty products. If you are not regularly washing your makeup brushes, now is the time to give them a good shampoo. Sanitize your makeup palettes and toss that grimy cosmetic bag. Replace your mascara every three months to avoid harmful bacteria. Pencils and pressed powders have a significantly longer life span than liquid and cream products and can last two years plus. Loose mineral powders are inert and cannot harbor or grow bacteria but if you are applying them with a germ-ridden brush, you are not doing your skin any favors. If the consistency, color or odor changes with any of your products, then it is time to toss and replace. Sun Protection: While we all know that we should be wearing an SPF year round, few do. As the weather warms and we ditch our gloves and heavy sweaters, more skin is revealed and being exposed to harmful UV rays. Do not forget about parts that are regularly exposed but rarely protected, like the hands while driving. Check your sunscreen dates! Unopened they usually last a few years. Opened SPF needs to be replaced annually. Sunscreen formulas can easily become unstable due to temperature changes or from sitting so long that the formula starts to separate. This also means the sun protection ingredients may be unevenly distributed within the lotion and will not give you an even coverage of protection from the sun. Happy Spring, happy and healthy skin and hair to everyone! 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.

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!

The springtime is a beautiful season. The snow is melting and the days are starting to get warmer. As the days begin to get warmer and the flowers start to bloom again let's be honest…our skin freaks out. When a midday outfit change due to the weather and a whole box of tissues seems like a good idea, our skin is going to need some major TLC. Let’s start with our cleansers. Unless is you’re trying to wash off a heavy sunscreen or a heavy makeup look there is little to no need to use soap in your face cleanser. But not all face cleansers are created equal and DCL Ultra Comfort Cleanser is the queen of the cleansers especially during this time of year. Not only is it free of fragrances and any known irritants, Ultra Comfort Cleanser is loaded with skin-saving ingredients such as Green Tea to protect skin from free radical damage, and it has Chamomile and Aloe Vera to help fight against springtime inflammation. Now that our skin is cleansed it’s important to balance our pH with a toner and Murad Hydrating Toner is a perfect go-to product all throughout the year. Along with ingredients to help you get the most out of your cleansing routine, this hydrating toner also has cucumber extract to help calm your skin and peach extract to help keep your skin soft during what is still very dry and confusing weather. After you let your toner sink in and balance your skin, this is when your serum comes into play. With spring break season just around the corner, sun protection is very important to keep in mind and that is why Vivierskin Vitamin C IDS High Potency Serum 10 is an amazing option. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, the dry winter weather can sometimes be the most acne clear season for us. If you fit that description using a hydrating toner plus this serum and a very light moisturizer only on your dryer areas is perfect. You get the brightening, tone and texture correcting and protection benefits of this serum plus the light moisture barrier protection of the cleanser and toner without the clogged pores and oil that can come with other products.   DCL Ultra Comfort Cleanser     Murad Hydrating Toner   Vivierskin Vitamin C IDS Hight Potency Serum 10   Another serum that is perfect for this awkward weather is the Murad Sensitive Skin Soothing Serum. Whether you have a sunburn, just got waxed, or experience tight dry skin after washing your face this calming serum may just be your new best friend. It uses calming extracts including cucumber and flower extracts plus ginseng root to quiet that irritation and allow your skin to optimally absorb other products and take on the day! Prolonged irritation can lead to pigmentation and uneven skin texture so if you have skin irritation don’t just wish it away. One of the most important parts of skincare is the care of your eye area because of the delicate nature of the skin and it being prone to aging and damage faster than the rest of the skin. Avene Retrinal Eyes not only has amazing decongesting properties to reduce puffiness and dark circles but it also has “soft focus” powders to reduce the look of irregularities and wrinkles. It also has powerful moisturizing ingredients and is hypoallergenic to help you looking bright-eyed ready to take on your spring allergies. Something that is important throughout the whole year but even more so during transitional seasons is how you take off your makeup. With the eye area being even more prone to irritation during the late winter and early spring, to take off my eye makeup I use a petroleum jelly on Q-tips to carefully and gently take off my eye makeup and concealer and then use micellar water on cotton pads to take off the rest of my face makeup. An amazing option is La Roche-Posay Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin because it picks up makeup dirt and oil like a magnet without upsetting your moisture barrier. It also eliminates the need for rubbing which is one of the worst things you can do on any part of your skin.  Especially if you are a girl that loves her eye makeup it is very important to slowly and carefully remove that makeup and avoid drying ingredients and tugging or wiping of the skin. Murad Sensitive SkinSoothing Serum   Avene Retrinal Eyes     La Roche-Posay Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin   With the right care and attention, you can take back control over your skin during this awkward transitional weather. Whether you’re getting ready to head off to spring break or totally OWN your Easter party, flawless soft and clear skin is always the best accessory! Check out our Vlog Below!

While being obsessed with all things pumpkin spice flavored may make you a “basic”, knowing the skin and hair benefits of this fall fruit makes you a beauty ingredient aficionado! Pumpkin is loaded with antioxidants, minerals and enzymes. Pumpkin is the perfect ingredient for youthful and blemish-free skin, and it has healthy hair growth benefits as well! Vitamin A: Stimulates cell growth and turnover Vitamin B: Treats acne Vitamin C: Brightens skin and repairs sun damage Vitamin E: Treats premature aging, acne and is helpful in wound healing Zinc: Regulates sebum production, has anti-inflammatory properties Selenium: Fights acne Omega fatty acids: Maintains hydration levels and moisturizes Enzymes: Boost cellular turnover and removal of dead skin cells   ACURE Moroccan Argan Stem Cell + Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner: Repairs and moisturizes normal, dry, damaged or color treated hair. High in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for added shine and maintaining healthy hair and scalp. Formulated with vegan, organic, fair-trade and biodegradable ingredients and a light almond scent. PCA Skin Nutrient Toner: Vitamins, enzymes and AHAs gently exfoliate, remove impurities and refine pores. This toner is suitable for all skin types. Incorporate into your skincare routine by using after you cleansing step. M2 Skin Recovery Moisturizer: Hydration in the form of an oil-free antioxidant moisturizer. Improves the appearance of acne, aging and hyperpigmentation. ACURE Calming Body Lotion: Contains nourishing fatty acids. The lavender essential oil and scent soothes your mind and body. Echinacea stem cells aid in cellular rejuvenation. Murad Transforming Powder: A water activated bio-enzyme exfoliant that removes dead skin cells, dirt and oil. Salicylic acid and pumpkin extracts keep blemishes at bay.     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.

If you are lucky enough to be traveling anytime soon, or are just daydreaming about jet setting to Tahiti, be aware that traveling can take its toll on your skin. Here are my beauty and skin care tips for when you are flying sky high.Hydrate: Make sure you drink plenty of water before and during your flight. When you are properly hydrated you feel less sluggish, and this will help you beat the jet lag. When you do not feel 100% it shows on the outside. The cabin pressure within the plane can lead to bloating and swelling of the fingers and toes, so opt for water and fruit, over soda and salty snacks.Moisturize: There is almost no humidity within the cabin of a plane. That means the air circulating around you is pulling moisture from your skin, eyes and mucous membranes.Apply a lotion or cream to your entire face and body prior to your flight and re-apply often while on board. Choose products with humectants, meaning they draw in and retain moisture. If you suffer from oily skin, don’t falsely believe that the dry air from your flight is doing your pores any favors. You still need hydration if you have oily and acne prone skin. Your skin will go into overdrive and produce even more oil to make up for the lack of moisture. While I am a huge fan of facial mists year round, there is speculation on whether or not using these mid-flight will lead to further surface moisture loss from your skin when the cabin air evaporates the water. So just to be safe, save your hydrating spray for when you arrive to your destination for an instant pick me up. Decreased moisture within your throat and nasal cavity can increase your chances of catching a cold or the flu. Viruses have a much easier time embedding into airways when there is less moisture and mucus creating a protective barrier. A saline spray may be a good option for those who are prone to sore throat and or nosebleeds during flights.Avoid Makeup: Anyone who knows me, as a makeup artist and makeup addict will not believe I just wrote that! The truth is I have oily skin and large pores so I dread a public face sans foundation, but any time I have worn a full face of makeup on a flight, it looks horrific by the time I land. My foundation will crack and oxidize, turning darker because of my increased oil production, my well-defined brows will have faded and my mascara will have left dark smears on my oily eyelids. I suggest opting for just a facial moisturizer, BB or CC cream and a tinted lip balm, that is it! Just accessorize with an over sized pair of sunglasses and you will not feel the need for eye makeup. Keep a pouch of essentials- mineral powder, mascara, blush and perhaps a bright lipstick in your carry-on so you can apply after your arrival.Protect your Hair: If you have longer locks, never wear them down during a flight. When your hair is down there is greater surface area for moisture to escape from. Treat your hair with nourishing oil and either braid it, put it in a topknot or a sock bun.  For another layer of protection wear a handkerchief or a silky scarf tied into a turban around your head.Sun Protection: The debate on whether or not an aisle or window seat is better is very simple to me. I always request a window seat, not for the view, it is so I can pull the window shade completely down. While the rules of etiquette may not be set in stone when it comes to who’s arm rest belongs to who, it is cut and dry when it comes to the window- whomever sits next to it, is in control of it. Remember you are not on the surface of the earth anymore and the intensity of UV exposure increases with elevation. In your approved quart size bag, containing 3oz containers, there must be a sunscreen, preferably with an SPF of 30. As always choose a sunscreen that states it is broad spectrum or has a high PA+++ rating. Don’t forget to apply sun-protection to the sides of your face, neck, ears and hands as these areas often go over looked. Make sure your carry-on lip balm contains sunscreen. Those oversized sunglasses are not just for hiding your lack of eye makeup; they are protecting your retinas from damage and preventing crow’s feet.These tips should have you feeling ready to embark upon your next trip. Your suitcase is packed, your skin is prepped and you will be departing with everyone wondering - Who is that woman with the headscarf, dark shades and GORGEOUS skin?!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, 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!

What’s not to love about the 4th of July? Barbecues, pool parties, beach bonfires, fireworks…all of these things are such a fun way of celebrating ‘Murica! Unfortunately the fun that we have on July 4th can often wreck havoc on July 5th but don’t worry! Here is your fool proof guide to slaying July 4th and surviving July 5th. Suns out Buns Out Whether your outfit of choice for the 4th is a bikini or a flowy dress, one thing is for sure…we tend to show more skin and spend more time outdoors on the 4th than we do the rest of the year. As long as we have proper sun protection and remember to reapply we can enjoy the great outdoors as much as we want! I recommend starting off the day using La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral all over your body especially the areas that aren’t going to be covered up. I know that I will most likely be wearing makeup on the 4th so a big hangup for a lot of us with reapplication is messing up our look! That’s why the Avene High Protection Compact in SPF 50 is the perfect solution not only to protect your skin but also to mattify your makeup if you start to sweat throughout the day. I prefer to apply with a powder brush so I get more sheer coverage but a makeup pad works well too! A lot of people think that you only need to tend to skin that has gotten some sun if you have gotten sunburned. However even if you aren’t sunburned sun damage can still occur. I love using the Avene After-Sun Repair Creamy Gel whether I have an island glow or a ripe tomato look by the end of the day. Unfortunately the process of getting a tan from the sun can harm your natural moisture barrier, lead to hyperpigmentation and make you lose elasticity so this amazing gel can act as your personal body guard against all of those signs of aging. It’s also paraben and silicone free as well as hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. The best thing to do is apply it as soon as you can after sun exposure ESPECIALLY after the shower. Rosé All Day…Until Bedtime As one of the top 3 heaviest drinking days of the year in the US,  the 5th of July can make us regretful of the partying the day before. But if we properly prepare then we can slay the 4th AND the 5th. First things first…the main reason why we get hangovers is because of the LARGE amounts of simple sugars that make up alcoholic beverages including shots of hard liquor.  We all know the physical feeling of being hungover but that can also leave your skin looking tired and even lead to premature aging. I always take collagen, calcium and hyaluronic acid supplements because these are the main compounds that our skin uses to heal itself like the Murad Youth Builder (Anti-aging Dietary Supplement.  Because sugar breaks down the collagen in our skin I would highly recommend jumping on the skin supplement bandwagon as well. Something that we all have done at least once is have so much fun celebrating during the day that once bedtime comes we don’t have the energy to take off our makeup and  cleanse our skin. Whether you’re prone to breakouts or not leaving on your makeup can lead to premature skin aging, tired skin, hyper pigmentation and other not so flattering results. Whether you’re staying over at a friend’s house or going home at the end of the night DO NOT GO TO BED without using BRYT Remove Eye and Makeup Remover. Not only does it get rid of your makeup but it also has skin loving oils and antioxidants that will help heal your skin while you’re asleep. After removing your makeup and cleansing don’t forget to moisturize while you’re asleep! You guys know how into supplements I am and I just found my newest obsession! A big problem with anti-aging skincare lines is that if you don’t technically have maturing skin then anti-aging products can really flare you up as far as acne goes because your skin is already producing the amount of “good stuff” that it needs so it gets overwhelmed by the product. The Cura Complexion Catalyst Creme provides all of those anti aging benefits without using traditional anti aging ingredients so feel free to smooth this on after a day of sun drinking and partying no matter your age! As we mentioned earlier calcium is a compound that your body naturally uses to heal itself and Cura Skincare uses calcium in their skincare line! This cream also uses caffeine to help stimulate skin cell renewal, Colloidal oatmeal to help sooth your skin and prevent moisture loss as well as other supercharged ingredients. “I Think I’m Going to Call in Sick” Despite our best efforts whether it’s lack of sleep, dehydration, sun damage or just not being able to adult today don’t let hungover skin be the reason to skip work on July 5th. Timeless Beauty Bar Face the Day Sheet Mask is the perfect boost that you need after cleansing before work to help you have a good skin day. Not only is it hydrating but it also reduces redness, soothes and restores your skin so that you can take on the day! Now that you have your skin arsenal set up make sure to be have fun, be safe and party like there is no tomorrow! Happy 4th of July!

April is Rosacea Awareness Month which is geared to help raise awareness of this widespread yet often misunderstood chronic facial disorder. Rosacea affects approximately 16 millions Americans. Springtime is considered to be rosacea season due to the flareups that the change in weather causes. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that mainly affects the middle third of the face. Rosacea symptoms include flushing, persistent redness, bumps, and visible blood vessels. Rosacea can affect all segments of the population, individuals with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily are believed to be at greatest risk. Rosacea is more commonly diagnosed in women, but men are also affected. It is believed that more severe symptoms are seen in men because they often delay seeking medical help until Rosacea reaches more advanced stages. Common Rosacea Triggers: Sun Exposure Emotional Stress Hot Weather Wind Exercise Alcohol Consumption Hot Baths Spicy Foods There is no cure for rosacea and the cause is unknown, products are available to control or reverse its signs and symptoms. “You play an important role in caring for your rosacea. Wash your face with a soap-free cleanser and lukewarm or cold water. Use a non-comedogenic, gentle moisturizer as well as a daily sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.” - Dr. Mercedes Florez While medical therapy can address the underlying physical aspects of rosacea, these tips & tricks can help boost your self-confidence when it comes to your physical appearance. Proper use of skincare and cosmetics can help reduce the appearance of Rosacea symptoms. Clean & Moisturize your Face - Find a cleanser and moisturizer based on your skin type and apply gently without rubbing your skin. Always use an SPF - Daily use of SPF is essential in any skincare routine but especially so for anyone with Rosacea since sun exposure was named a top trigger in a National Rosacea Society survey. Spot-Test New Products First - Always test out a new product on your arm to make sure your skin doesn't have an adverse reaction to it. Choose an Oil-Free Foundation & Concealer - Avoid applying foundation and concealer with your fingertips as that could add unnecessary oil to the face. Use an anti-bacterial brush and always clean your brush between uses. Mineral Powder Makeup - Mineral makeup is a good choice for those with Rosacea since it does not contain potentially irritating ingredients and helps tone down the look of redness. Avoid Red Lip Shades - Red lip shades will draw out the redness in your skin. Stick to neutral shades close to your natural color to downplay the redness in your skin. Are you thinking you might be part of those 16 million Americans who have Rosacea - be proactive in your skin’s health. Schedule an appointment with your dermatologist. If you haven’t seen a medical professional yet and are self-treating your signs and symptoms, consider this April your motivation to seek proper diagnosis and treatment. Do you have any Rosacea tips & tricks?

Summer has finally arrived and with it, comes all the pool parties, ocean side vacations, backyard barbecues, and the beauty dilemmas that can come with it. Here is how to feel good about your body, keep makeup meltdowns at bay, how to get that dewy summer skin & healthy hair you dream about.  If you frequent my blogs you know my stance on sun protection to the point of ad nauseum. Yes, your body needs Vitamin D, which it synthesizes from the sun, but the risks can far outweigh the benefits if you are choosing to fry yourself. If you are one of those people who must catch some rays here is how to do it healthfully: Exposure should only occur three times a week for 10-15 minutes MAX without sunscreen (you may be able to go a few more minutes if you naturally have a darker skin tone.) No more than that! To keep yourself within these healthy parameters schedule to do this during your lunch hour Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Set a timer. Once you hear that “ding”, you are done baking, literally! If you still question whether or not your vitamin D levels are adequate, schedule an appointment with your primary doctor for a blood test to see where you stand. Simple adjustments to your diet can also supplement your Vitamin D. For a Complete Guide to Proper use of Sunscreen and the dangers of UV exposure please check out my past blog posts:             “Tips and Tricks You may not Know About Sunscreen”             “Tanning Bed Dangers”             “Why you need to Protect Yourself From the Sun Year Round” While wearing sunscreen is obvious, here are other summer beauty tips to consider: Make Fruits and Veggies the Main focus of every meal. At least half of the plate of every meal should consist of produce. Farmers markets, roadside stands and the local grocery store are abundant with fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables. Lycopene a powerful antioxidant is not only found in tomatoes but also has high concentrations in watermelon. So enjoy all the summer specific vegetables and fruits. During warmer months it is truly important to keep your body hydrated. If you struggle to drink the recommended ounces of water daily, try adding sliced strawberries, cucumbers, lemon or mint to your water and you will find yourself more likely to drink it. Aside from all the vitamin and mineral benefits of increasing your produce consumption, you will also find that this additional intake will aid in your digestion to alleviate sluggishness and will help you in your health goals. Trying to be bikini ready and banish bloat? Avoid excess salt and dairy on swimsuit days. Sweat and Sand Proof Your Makeup. Forgo full coverage foundations; instead opt for tinted moisturizers, BB creams, and CC creams. Conceal only where you really need it and use powder on your oily areas sparingly. If you are not using a primer as the first step to your makeup routine, it is a product worth investing in to ensure that your makeup endures and withstands sweltering temps. If you have skin prone to oiliness, use blotting papers throughout the day to combat shine. Setting sprays also lock in makeup and increase its longevity. While some may think powders are the key to every summer look, products like cream blushes wear beautifully in the warmer months, they melt into the skin and create a realistic healthy flush. Cream shadows also tend to stand up better to water. If you find that your pencil eyeliner is leaving you looking like a raccoon by traveling down onto the tops of your cheeks or transferring onto your oily upper lid, try using liquid eyeliners instead. If you want to experiment with bold colors but are intimidated, try focusing on one feature and leaving the rest of the face neutral- a daring purple, orange or bright red lipstick pairs beautifully with just a swipe of mascara and well-groomed eyebrows. Likewise, multiple coats of a colored mascara is a fun look when paired with just a simple nude lip balm. If you plan on being directly in the sun for an extended period of time avoid super shiny lip glosses as they can magnify your lip’s sun exposure. While a lipstick may not contain the same SPF ingredients (ex Titanium Dioxide) as a specified sun protection balm, the more opaque a lipstick is, the more sun protection it offers. This makes the newly popular long lasting matte liquid lipsticks a summer favorite. Considering it dries matte, you will also banish the hair-stuck-to-your-lip gloss experience all of us girls dread. Adjust your Skincare Regiment. If you have oily or acne prone skin you may find that you need to switch to lighter product formulations. Swap creamier cleansers for gel washes. Oily skin types still need to use moisturizer but may find that it needs to only be applied once daily, preferably at night. For the very oiliest of skin, a hydrating facial spray is a perfect moisturizer. After misting onto your face, use your fingertips to gently press into the skin. Masks are a great addition to your summer routine. Clay masks will absorb excess oil, while gel masks, can be stored in the fridge and are great for cooling the skin, while reducing redness and sensitivity. Hyperpigmentation can become more apparent in the summer. Add a Vitamin C, licorice extract or Kojic acid containing serum to your routine. However if you continue to tan and expose yourself to too much sun, you will continue to have discoloration. Exfoliate (dry brushing, salt scrub, loofa) your body regularly on days you do not shave. Avoid unsightly bumps, folliculitis or razor rash by opting to have a professional wax. Once waxed you will not have to worry about shaving everyday or dark hair being visible within the follicle. If you opt to shave apply a benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid or salicylic acid lotion to the shaven area to avoid razor rash. Coconut oil is also great post shave as it hydrates and has both anti-microbial/ anti-inflammatory properties. Here are my tips if some form of water is your destination! Beach and Ocean Beauty Tips: Schedule a gel manicure/pedicure prior to a beach vacation. Sand and salt breakdown and dull regular nail polishes, opting for the gel version will insure your polish stays shiny and last far longer without chipping. Long walks on the beach anyone? While the idea has a cheesy connotation walking on the sand engages muscles differently. The unevenness of the sand underneath you and the extra resistance is great for strengthening and toning your ankles, calves, hamstrings and glutes. If your brows tend to bleach in the sun and you want to avoid that, rub your sunscreen lotion into them or swipe a sunscreen stick over them. Why spend money on a salt spray for your hair when you can make use of the ocean water. As your hair air dries, twist small sections around your fingers for the perfect beachy waves. Ocean water contains many healthy minerals and trace elements and is known for healing wounds. Those who have acne, scars and eczema may see improvement to their skin post an ocean vacation. While the salt and sand is a great exfoliator, it is also drying so utilize outdoor showers to rinse off the excess. Apply a lightweight body lotion after a day at the beach. Swimming Pool Tips: Chlorine can be just as drying as salt, so rinse yourself as soon as possible after being in the pool and apply a full body moisturizer. Wear flip flops in public areas as humidity and standing water, like what is found in changing areas and around the pool, are breeding grounds for the viruses and fungus that cause athlete’s foot, ringworm and plantar warts. I have color treated hair and despite having my color done every four weeks, I keep chlorinated pool water from ever touching my hair. If you aren’t this hardcore, prior to the pool, wet your hair and apply a heavy weight conditioner that you do not rinse out until afterwards. This should give your locks an added layer of protection. If you do not have time to go home and shower after the pool and are worried about your hair, bring along a club soda to rinse away residue. To avoid brassiness or the dreaded green pool hair, mix baking soda with your favorite shampoo or while in the shower, rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar prior to shampooing. With added products and knowledge in your beauty arsenal, this advice should have you feeling confident to take on any summer beauty challenge and have you ready to embrace your inner mermaid!

If any of you are like me (and I know I can’t be the only one) you love gift giving but you hate trying to figure out what to get for everyone on your list. Let me introduce you to giving the gift of healthy, beautiful skin! Here are some of my top beauty picks for gifts to give this holiday season!    First we have to talk about the IPKN Artist Wave makeup applicator device. It is an absolute must have for every makeup lover on your list and I can bet anything my friends won’t be surprised when they find one from me under their Christmas trees this year. I cannot stop talking about it and I would never stop using it. I have fallen very much in love with this handy little item. It applies makeup beautifully no matter what type of makeup it is, all the way from primers to powder and every foundation and blush in-between. Oh, and did I mention it is down right adorable? Because it is! It is so small, it fits practically in the palm of my hand, making it perfect for all of my traveling as well, and is perfect for your globe trotting little cousin or your dignified business woman best friend. It is literally a gift that keeps on giving and it comes with batteries so it’s ready to use right out of the box.  Next up is the Clarisonic Mia 3  Sonic Skin Cleansing System. Now any Clarisonic system you get will be loved and adored by men and women a like. My personal favorite is the pink one, but they come in a variety of colors to suit everyone. Everyone I know who owns a Clarisonic is trying to get everyone who doesn’t, to get one because they love them! They clean skin six times BETTER than with hands alone. Plus they are great to really work your cleansing and exfoliating products into your skin AND they perfectly prepare your skin to really absorb and make the most out of your skincare products to follow. Everyone knows the Clarisonic brand and for good reason. This will definitely be a hot ticket item this holiday season, and not just for the ladies either.    Now for your friends who aren’t on the Clarisonic wagon, or even ones who are but love to use multiple tools to get their best skin ever, there is the Foreo Luna Pro. Again, this is a facial cleanser, and yes, this one also comes in multiple colors so it can be loved by everyone on your holiday gift list. A couple things that are sure to make this gift a hit, is not only it’s adorable size and portability, and not just the fact that its silicone coating makes it resistant to bacteria; but also the unique anti-aging technology it has. When you are using this device to cleanse your face, you are also fighting the signs of aging. Due to this technology, or as I like to call it, magic; the Foreo Luna pro massages and relaxes the facial muscles making fine lines and wrinkles do a vanishing act (only they don’t return), and increases circulation in the skin which boost the production of collagen and elastin to make the skin smoother and appear younger.   Okay, we can’t talk about gifts and anti-aging without bring up my new fascination, the Nuface Trinity Facial Trainer Kit.  This kit comes with everything your gift getter will need to improve the their facial contours at home, without the need for surgery . This device is so cool! I freaked out when I first watched the video on this. The device uses micro currents to sculpt and tone your facial contours, kind of like a work out for your face, only your face doesn’t have to do any of the work to get the results. Now if only working out the rest of the body were that easy.   Next we are going to talk about teeth, because I know what I want for Christmas and its pearly white teeth without having to go to the dentist every few months. Well guess what!? We have the perfect device for that! Meet the GLO Science GLO Brilliant Personal Teeth Whitening Device. This is another gift that is perfect for everyone on your list and could even be a gift to yourself this holiday season, because who doesn’t want stunning white teeth all year round. So for everyone on your list who drinks coffee, tea, wine or anything else that stains the teeth, this gift is for them. What I love about this device is that it is so fast, it delivers results of up to five shades whiter teeth in just 5 days! It is like magic watching it happen every day right before your eyes. The end result being teeth that are 8 shades whiter and you can forget about not wanting to drink all those yummy, warm, holiday beverages because this technology cuts the sensitivity so you don’t have to sacrifice anything for that beautiful smile. Also, and I feel like this should be said, it is just an adorable, portable, convenient device which makes it all the better for your holiday gift list. Now because I mentioned all these great skin care tools, we need to talk about the gift of skin care products. There are tons of great products out there and it can be overwhelming to try and pick just one, but remember that when you are looking to gift skincare products stay with a set all in the same line. So if you are going to pick Murad (and that is an amazing choice, everyone loves Murad) get all the products from Murad. If you are going to pick something from Nip+Fab  then get the whole Nip + Fab line. Not only will you look like a skin care hero but the products will work best together. I also really love Murad, they have a group of skincare products for everyone. Seriously, it ranges from Murad’s anti-aging products all the way to helping with acne-prone skin and all of their products (at least the ones I have tried) smell amazing without being overpowering. So if you have someone who is sensitive to smells, Murad is a great skincare gift. That being said here are my top 3 picks for skincare product lines. For anti-aging I love the Nip+Fab line, because not only do they have products for the face but also for the body and they deliver amazing results. I have always loved and always will love this line and I recommend it to people all the time. Lastly, but certainly not least, and possibly my favorite is the mybody line. I LOVE this line, they are so amazing, I have never seen results from a line so quickly and without irritation (because I have sensitive skin). I have raved on and on the past couple of weeks about the mybody myhero Anti-Aging Growth Factor Serum which is a personal favorite, but the whole line is out of this world amazing. The results blow my mind and this is possibly one of the easiest gifts to give of a set because they are color coded and they also are sold on the site in sets to address different needs so it takes the guesswork out of what to get. There are, of course, a ton of different brands and products to choose from and you can find literally anything but those are just my top 3. Lastly on this gift guide the gift of makeup. So we have spent all this time talking about gifts to give to beautify the skin and face and even teeth, but now we need to talk about the perfect gifts to enhance the natural beauty AND if you are going to give the IPKN artist wave (and you should) then what better to give with that then makeup! Conveniently enough, IPKN also have a makeup line which is my first choice to give with the IPKN device because they are going to work so well together and I love the formula of the IPKN foundations. The coverage is so perfect and they go on so smooth, like a dream. IPKN also have awesome mascaras and eyeliners and GORGEOUS lip colors so they are a must this holiday season.     There is also the option of Dermablend which is the best coverage of foundation I have ever used, it is VERY full coverage and a little goes a long way, but it lasts all day and anyone who wear makeup but especially those with skin conditions they are trying to hide, will really appreciate this as a gift. For lips, I especially love La Bella Donna lip glosses and lip crayons. Don’t get me started because I could go forever. EVERYONE will love these, everyone. The colors are amazing and the formula is the most perfect lipgloss formula I have ever used! So there you have it! A guide to the best beauty and skincare gifts this season. All of these products are so amazing and will be a hit with everyone. I love getting and giving the gift of beautiful healthy skin, and a lot of these products are on my holiday list as well, so you know I am serious about these products! Go check them out and get started on your holiday gift list, you’ll be giving gifts so good even Santa will be asking for YOUR help next year!     Blog Written by askderm's Beauty Blogger Sydney Nichole is a self-proclaimed beauty nerd.  She stays on top of the latest makeup, hair, and beauty trends. She is an active contributor to our youtube channel with how-to-videos and talking about beauty products.

It is hot and humid. I am blotting my face like I will get paid for every oil-absorbing sheet I pluck from my purse. I felt like I just got my skin balanced and before I knew it, summer was here to challenge my ego. It is time for a skincare overhaul! I know I am not alone; here is what you need to know when it comes to summer skincare and hair care.Change your productsForgo heavy full coverage foundations. Instead opt for tinted moisturizers, BB or CC creams and a light dusting of mineral powder.The creamy face wash you were using all winter may be too much. Switch to a gel based formulation if you tend to be on the oily side.Change your routine You may need to exfoliate more or less. Never exfoliate skin that is burned or red and irritated. If your skin become more sensitive during the warmer months you may want to decrease the number of times you exfoliate within the week. On the flipside, hot and humid weather can exacerbate oil production and pores may be more visible. Adding just one more exfoliation to your week may help.Quench your SkinMoisturizer and lotions are still important to use daily during the warmer weather, just make sure to switch to an oil-free formulation. If you have oily skin your first reaction may be to forgo any moisturizer what so ever, but this is not going to help. A lack of moisture can send your sebaceous glands into overdrive, producing more oil to lubricate and protect your skin.Hydrating mists are great for cooling down, calming the skin and adding hydration throughout the day. I love keeping a mist in my fridge, or throwing it into a cooler while at the beach or on a boat.Unleash your locksSummer is not the time to try and fight your hairs natural texture. Youtube is a great resource to learn quick and easy hairstyles that embrace your hair type. Because you are sweating more and you are applying your sunscreen right up to your hairline like you are suppose to, dry shampoos are a great way to freshen your style, absorb oil and add volume to limp locks. UV rays don’t just damage your skin; they can take a toll on your hair, especially color treated hair. Make sure you wear a hat, a scarf or take time to relax under an umbrella.Protect yourself from the inside outStudies show that the antioxidants in many fruits and vegetables not only fight free radical damage but also actually boost your skin’s ability to protect itself from the sun! So challenge yourself to consume more fruits and vegetables with every meal.Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen..Sunscreens take time to absorb and begin to work, so as always choose a broad spectrum SPF, apply it 20 minutes prior to exposure and make sure you reapply every 90 minutes!Now that you have the knowledge of beautiful summer skin and hair - slip into that swimsuit, grab that floppy hat and hit the beach!Written by yours truly: Chantal MoniqueNYS Licensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist with 7+ Years Experience