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So we all know the importance of wearing sunscreen for the prevention of cancer and premature aging, but there are a few tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of your products and keep you and your family safer.  Remember the 20-1-2 rule.  For sunscreen to be effective, it must first properly absorb into the skin, so apply it 20 minutes prior to exposure.  Most people do not apply enough product, so use a shot glass sized amount (One fluid ounce) when slathering up. Lastly, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours to ensure its effectiveness. If you are in water, then reapply every hour. Sunscreen does expire. Most sunscreens do have an expiration date of three years stamped on the packaging.  If you are properly applying sunscreen as often as you should though, one bottle or tube should never ever last you the entire season. If at any time a sunscreen becomes separated, watery, chunky or the smell changes, throw it out. Properly store your sunscreen. Sunscreen needs to be kept at room temperature to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the product. Never leave sunscreen in your car or in direct sunlight as high temperatures breakdown and destroy the formulation, making it less effective in protecting your skin. Keep your sunscreen with you, as you need to apply it often anyhow. Keep it in your beach bag and in the shade, or throw it in your cooler. Try something new. Most people who avoid using sunscreen, say it is because they do not like the greasy or heavy feel of it. With new technologies and delivery systems there is a sunscreen for everyone. Spray sun protection is growing in popularity as it absorbs quickly and leaves little residue. Just make sure you are thorough in your application and always rub it in, even If the bottle says “No rub” and do not spray directly onto the face, rather spray it into your hands and apply with your fingertips. The cliché imagery of the lifeguard with the chalky white nose is also a thing of the past as formulations for physical sunscreen have advanced. Dry pressed or loose mineral sunscreens are light and can easily be used in conjunction with your makeup routine. Another advantage of physical sunscreens such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide is that they give immediate sun protection because they physically block and reflect UV rays. You can build your protection. A study conducted by the Department of Dermatology at the Bispebjerb Hospital in Copenhagen found that applying sunscreen three times daily built up enough product in the outer layers of skin to give a more prolonged protection factor. I recommend to my clients that a week before going on vacation to apply full body sunscreen morning, noon and just prior to going to bed. time now . A “base” of sunscreen is safe, a “base tan” is not.   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!

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

Are you getting ready to go to a pool party, have a beach day or go out on a boat? Whatever your destination may be, do not forget these 5 essential items to keep your skin and hair healthy, protected and beautiful.  1. Always Bring a Good Sunscreen When you select your sunscreen, make sure that it is broad spectrum.  In other words, it should protect against UVA and UVB rays.  Since you’ll likely be in and out of the water, it’s best if your sunscreen is also water resistant for 40-80 minutes. Putting on the right amount is important: 1/2 of a teaspoon of sunscreen will be enough to cover face and neck.  Also remember that sunscreens should be applied at least 30 minutes before sun exposure and must be re-applied at least every 2 hours.Remember that those with sensitive skin and children will also need sunscreen products especially designed for them!  2. Topical Antioxidants are VitalInfrared rays are part of the sunlight, but unfortunately, they can cause skin damage through the production of free radicals. These rays are not typically filtered by sunscreens.  As a result, it’s important to use topical antioxidants to prevent and revert the damage cause by infrared rays.The use of vitamin C alone or in combination with vitamin E and other antioxidants like ferulic acid, for example, will provide better protection than sunscreens alone.  This is especially true for individuals prone to suffer from dark spots on their face.  For optimal protection, apply topical antioxidants on your face before your sunscreen.3. Lip Balm with SPFLips, especially the lower lip, are constantly exposed to solar radiation. When you’re spending the day in the sun, it is very important to use a lip balm containing moisturizers (e.g. beeswax, olive oil, cocoa butter) and a physical sunscreen (e.g. zinc oxide) with an SPF 30. Do not forget to constantly reapply your lip balm.  It should go on at least every 2 hours.  Are you hitting the waves?  If so, make sure your lip balm is also water resistant. 4. Leave-in Hair Conditioner with SunscreenIt's not just your skin that needs protection from the elements… your hair does too!  That’s why you should always wear a hat when you are spending the day in the sun.We strongly recommend applying a leave-in hair conditioner with sunscreens to prevent the damage that sunlight can cause to you hair. If you have dyed your hair, remember that ultraviolet radiation can cause hair discoloration. Apply your leave-in conditioner before sun exposure and also reapply liberally every time you enter into the water.5. Don’t Forget the MoisturizerYou likely already know that sun exposure can cause dry skin, so be sure to have a high quality moisturizer on hand.  We recommend trying a light moisturizing mist to instantly refresh the skin. Most mists contain Aloe Vera and other moisturizing and soothing ingredients. Thermal water in spray form may also help. It’s also essential to opt for an after sun moisturizer to help combat the sun's harmful effects.So be sure to fill your beach bag with products that will hydrate, protect and restore your skin and hair.  When you go to the beach prepared, you’ll walk away relaxed, rejuvenated and radiant. Mercedes Florez White, MD Dermatologist. Director of the Cosmetic Department at the Greater Miami Skin and Laser Center  Miami Beach, Florida.

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.

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!

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

THE DOCTORS had 4 of our Favorite NEOVA products on the show!! NEOVA DNA Damage Control SILC SHEER Power Defense Crème de la Copper Copper Mask The show that aired May 2012 was themed “Non-Surgical Skin Solutions” and featured top skin experts including plastic surgeon Dr. Keith Marcus who spoke to the benefits of copper ingredients. The segment featured:  A shot of all four NEOVA products on the table Dr. Marcus speaking to traditional signs of aging – fine lines, wrinkles and Crow’s feet, and how copper works to combat aging symptoms  A before and after treatment showing the immediate benefit of copper skin care View the Segment on YouTube by Clicking HERE!   Product Descriptions of the above 4 NEOVA products mentioned on THE DOCTORS! DNA Damage Control [SILC SHEER 2.0 Broad Spectrum SPF 40]: Benefits- *  Defends against broad spectrum UVA/UVB rays. *  Corrects the signs of sun-inflicted skin DNA damage. *  Provides hyper antioxidant defense. *  Light diffusing factors illuminate and instantly reduce visible imperfections. *  Water-resistant [80 minutes] + oil-free. DNA Damage Control [SILC SHEER 2.0  Broad Spectrum SPF 40] is for guarding against broad spectrum UV rays and repairing the signs of photodamage.Product Overview- An advanced physical sunscreen for the face with the cosmetic benefit of skin-perfecting sheer tint that evens out skin tone. This smarter, brighter new formulation features two physical sunscreens, two light-diffusing factors and EGT, a hyper-antioxidant for enhanced protection and luminosity. Perfect alone or as an under-makeup primer. In full compliance with the new 2012 regulations, DNA Damage Control [SILC SHEER 2.0] meets the broad spectrum standard, filtering out dangerous UVA and UVB rays and, when used in conjunction with other sun protection measures, reduces the risks of skin cancer and early skin aging.Recommended daily, for all skin types, even the most sensitive. Click HERE to Start Shopping. Power Defense : A penetrating concentrate of Copper Peptide Complex, antioxidants, and a potent tetrapeptide protects against oxidation, boosts collagen, and promotes structural support to dramatically firm the skin. Click HERE to Start Shopping.   Creme de la Copper: An intense moisturizer, with Copper Peptide Complex, ceramides, antioxidants and DNA Repair Mitosomes, deeply nourishes and revitalizes photodamaged skin. Dry and/or mature skin is immediately moisturized, while tone and texture are improved. Click HERE to Start Shopping.   Copper Moisture Mask: Neova Therapy Copper Moisture Mask - This mask is an intensive GHK Copper Peptide Complex therapy designed for in-office facial treatments. Neova Therapy Copper Moisture Mask provides the skin with essential copper while supplying valuable moisture to revive and re-hydrate the skin.  Click HERE to Start Shopping. View all of the NEOVA Products by CLICKING HERE!

Apr. 1, 2013 - BLOOMFIELD, N.Y. -- AskDerm.com, a leading online retailer of Dermatologist recommended products, is providing discounts on rosacea treatment products to promote Rosacea Awareness month. These discounts will be available on popular brands such as Murad®, Avene®, and Glytone®. Dermatologists at AskDerm.com encourage both medical treatment and self-care measures when dealing with rosacea. “You play an important role in caring for your rosacea,” said Dr. Mercedes Florez, a consultant for AskDerm.com. “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.” The effects of rosacea are both physical and psychological, and can leave people feeling like they cannot look their best. Rosacea, sometimes referred to as adult acne, leaves sufferers with redness and small bumps on the face, often around the checks. There is no cure for rosacea, so self care can be a very important step in minimizing its appearance. Click Here for a full list of available rosacea treatment products on AskDerm.com!  

Do you have anyone on your gift-giving list that prefers a more natural approach to life or skincare? Being eco-friendly for a skincare company can mean a multitude of different approaches: organic certification, use of natural ingredients, foregoing the use of synthetics, or choosing to use plant based ingredients, over animal based ingredients because they require less water in production. Brands may choose to use solar or wind powered manufacturing processes, sustainable farming and harvesting of ingredients, recycled packaging or non-toxic inks for labeling. “Green” business practices are better for us and better for our planet! Whether you are shopping for yourself or someone else, these eco-friendly product picks cover a multitude of skin types. While being great for year round use, the following products are especially perfect for winter concerns like addressing hyperpigmentation from summer’s UV exposure, holiday stress or rough dehydrated skin. Coola Mineral Face SPF 30 Matte Cucumber: Are you being gifted a trip to somewhere warm? If so this sunscreen needs to be on your packing checklist. Mineral Face Matte smoothes the look of the skin and creates a matte finish, all while protecting you from harmful UV rays. Organic rosehip, omega-3 fatty acids and plankton extracts effectively nourish. Coola manufactures its sunscreens using locally sourced and organic ingredients whenever possible in their solar powered facility located in sunny California. You can be assured that Coola is free from parabens, PABA, petroleum and phthalates.   ilike Sour Cherry Gel Mask: This mask has by far one of the most nearly edible scents ever. Ideal for normal to combination skin, Sour Cherry Gel Mask tightens, tones and rejuvenates dull and dehydrated skin. This mask is rich in polyphenols and bioflavonoid antioxidants, meaning it is an anti-aging powerhouse. ilike skincare uses organically grown and hand harvested whole fruit pulps and over 150 herbs, combined with Hungarian thermal spring water that is rich in algae.   Derma e Evenly Radiant Brightening Cleanser: Winter weather can lead to skin that looks anything but merry and bright. This facial wash contains madonna lily plant extract, bearberry, green tea and vitamin C to promote healthy skin glow and diminish discoloration caused by sun damage. This brand’s humble beginnings were within a health food store. Every Derma e product is 100% vegan, cruelty-free, paraben free, sulfate free, mineral oil free, GMO free and manufactured with the use of wind power. Derma e is the recipient of The Green Patriot award “for organic leadership, green entrepreneurial innovation and global sustainability”. ACURE Marula + Argan Dry Oil Body Spray: This spray replaces watery warm weather lotions to hydrate parched winter skin. It absorbs immediately, without a greasy feel and is also great as a hair care finishing product. Buckthorn, sandalwood, vitamin E, coconut oil and olive oil nourish the skin, while the bright citrus and ginger scent is energizing. ACURE Foaming Shave Gel: Loose the environmentally insensitive shave cream packaging, this shave gel is housed in a recycled dispenser powered by air, not harmful expellants. No more rust rings on the bathroom counters when this gel is integrated into a shower and shave routine. Aloe, calendula and blue chamomile soothe skin for a close and irritant free shave. ACURE is serious about caring for our environment. Their office and manufacturing facilities are 100% solar and wind powered. ACURE’s office is paperless. All of their products contain organic ingredients and are biodegradable to help keep our water safe and pure. REN 1 Minute Flash Rinse Facial: Visible results are achieved, in yes, one minute. Suitable for most skin types this product immediately improves the look of the skin by eliminating redness, redefining pores and bringing about a healthy luminosity. Formulated with water-activated vitamin C, Flash Rinse Facial brings about such an immediately visible improvement to the skin that it is easily comparable to an in-spa treatment. REN is a plant and mineral based skincare company that is free from harmful synthetic ingredients. The packaging is recyclable, the folding cartons are from certified managed forests and printed with vegetable based ink. Pangea Organics Body Polish: This cocoa butter, salt and sugar scrub removes dead skin cells while deeply hydrating. Skin is immediately more soft and supple. The essential oil fragrance relaxes both body and mind. (Personally this scrub paired with ACURE’s Dry Oil Spray is a perfect match. Goodbye itchy, scaly winter skin!) Based in Boulder, CO Pangea Organics is committed to using organic, clean and natural ingredients that are ethically sourced and biodegradable. Some Pangea product packaging can even be planted and will grow herbs! 21 Drops Calm: Know anyone who feels overwhelmed or stressed during the holidays? This roller-ball vial contains an essential oil blend of jasmine, sweet orange and vetiver root in an organic jojoba carrier oil that will help anyone to chill out and enjoy the season. 21 Drops formulates their oil blends without synthetic fragrance, synthetic dyes, GMOs, sulfates or parabens. With a philosophy of creating a mind and body experience, 21 Drops aromatherapy treats a multitude of physical and emotional ailments.     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.

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

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

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

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?

At 56, I finally discovered less is more, and my skin never looked better! If you are like me, your “skincare” drawer was full of half used bottles of serums, masks, and various creams. Trying something new, loving it and then switching to the next hottest thing is a way of life for women over 50. We are all in search of the next jar of hope, never an easy quest. Once we find products we wind up applying too many at once. Wishing for the perfect combination, and never really knowing which products are working. Take the radical approach and simplify your routine, sticking with the basics will save you money and keep your skin looking fantastic!  After 4 weeks, I can honestly say my skin has never looked better (except for when I was in my 20's). In the Morning Cleanse - Why use a cleanser in the morning? Water alone removes only about 65% of oil and debris from the surface of the skin. I want a clean canvas with which to apply my moisturizer and makeup. My cleanser of choice is Keyano Lavender Milk Facial Cleanser It works for all skin types and contains Green Tea extract to help with my redness Eye Cream - Since we are streamlining how many products we choose, I like an eye cream that you can use morning and night. My problem is puffiness, especially in the morning. It is even worse after just 1 glass of wine at night. NIA24 Eye Repair Complex, it penetrates quickly and minimizes puffiness around the eyes.Moisturize with an SPF cream - Many of my friends use tinted moisturizers with some SPF protection, though not enough to protect you fully from the aging effects of the sun.  Replinix By Topix Sheer Physical Sunscreen Cream SPF 50+ penetrates your skin after a couple minutes allowing your makeup to go on flawlessly.  Always apply to any part of your body that will be exposed to the sun, including your face, neck, and the back of your hands. In the Evening Cleanse - Same as in the morning, apply your Keyano Lavender Milk Facial Cleanser  Serum - A serum is best used at night to fully penetrate our skin while we sleep. This item is the most expensive product in my routine, and worth every penny. Vivierskin Grenzcine Serum tones, firms, hydrates and leaves my skin glowing! Let it absorb into your skin while you brush your teeth before you complete your routine. Eye Cream - Same as in the morning, apply your NIA24 Eye Repair Complex.Moisturize - This product, like our serum, works all night. Glytone Age-Defying Antioxidant Night Cream was a 2013 Healthy Beauty Award Winner in Self Magazine. The peptide complex and antioxidants help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while fully moisturizing your skin.Bi-Weekly Exfoliation - At our age, Retinol and Retin A can be too harsh and drying.  DCL G20 Radiance Peel Pads are convenient and using them just twice a week provides the perfect amount of exfoliation. Just sweep them on your face, neck, chest and back of hands, wait 5 minutes and shower off. It's like giving yourself a micro peel at home and will save you money at the dermatologist.In the end, keeping your skin looking radiant and healthy is not as complicated as most skincare companies would have you think.  Try consolidating your abundance of beauty products into the simple 6 that work.  Cleanser (1), Eye Cream (2), Daily Moisturizer (3), Evening Moisturizer (4), Anti-Aging Serum (5), and Exfoliator (6).  Less is More! 

It’s that time of year again where we have our sights set on our New Year’s resolutions and on all the goals we have created for ourselves for the upcoming year.  One of the most popular resolutions is getting in shape and losing weight.  Here are some pre and post workout skincare tips that will surely make a difference in your skin health.  These tips are simple to remember and easy to follow. As you may notice, gyms, fitness classes and even outside, you’ll see many more people working out to work on their personal fitness goals.  Working out is great for your body, physically and mentally.  When a person exercises, they are getting much needed endorphins that need to lift their mood.  Besides your overall feeling great, you will also be releasing toxins as you sweat; just an added benefit of fitness.       Pack Your Gym Bag with The Necessities… Many people go to the gym before or after work and rush out of there with just a quick shower…not too fast.  In order to prevent facial or body acne, there are some necessities that should be in every gym bag because a quick shower isn’t enough. Make up Remover. Yes, your crush is working out on the other elliptical and you really want to look cute for them…if you must, stick to just mascara and a tinted lip balm when working out so you don’t clog your pores and cause a breakout. Always workout with all makeup properly removed from your skin. The REN Rosa Centifolia eye makeup remover is a silky milk make-up remover designed with a blend of oils and flower water for gentle but thorough cleansing including waterproof mascara. Gentle, oil free face wash. The gentle, oil free facial wash will leave your skin feeling fresh and clean without any heavy residue. The Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash is an oil-free face wash that cleanses for all skin types. Oil free clarifying body wash. Whether you take a shower before or after working out or both, you should have a nice, soft smelling oil free body wash that will help keep your skin looking good avoiding any body acne that can pop up due to bacteria and clogged pores. Non Alcoholic Toner. These non-alcoholic toners will not only refresh your skin they will free your skin from bacteria giving you a truly fresh face with balanced PH levels. The Avene Gentle toner is alcohol-free, oil-free, hypoallergenic, and noncomedogenic.  Cleansing Wipes.  I know many people use the same rag/towel to wipe their faces as they’re working out and there are some that will even wipe the sweat with their extremely bacteria infested hands (have you seen all the sweat that lingers on machines in the gym?!?! Especially with those who don’t wipe them down properly). Keep a pack of cleansing wipes on you for when you need to freshen your face while working out without clogging your pores with nasty bacteria. Acure's cleansing wipes are all-natural biodegradable Argan Oil Towelettes refresh, cleanse, soothe, detoxify on the spot.  Different Clothing.  This may sound a bit obvious, but make sure you have another set of clothes to change into once you shower.  For females, wearing the same sports bra that you wore and got sweaty in will increase your risk of body acne while it keeps the sweat and bacteria on your freshly cleaned, open pored skin.     Make Sure You Are Prepared To Sweat It Out… Keep That Hair Back. Invest In A Cute Headband.  I too have tried (and failed miserably) to look cute while working out and that includes keeping my long hair loose…not a great idea.  Not only will your workout suffer since you’ll be more focused on pushing your hair out of your face but your skin will suffer too. Hair that falls on your skin while you’re sweating will more likely get an acne breakout. Plus, who wants that sweaty hair look?!  Wear Moisture Wicking Clothing.  I don’t care if you sweat, sparkle, glisten….whatever you may call it, it is pretty gross seeing large sweat stains coming from clothing.  Not only does it look disgusting, just think of all the bacteria that is being trapped tightly against your skin. Bacteria causes not only breakouts but other infections so check out some awesome workout gear that are moisture wicking to keep you cool, dry and feeling cute! My favorite lifting tank not only is moisture wicking but has the awesome phrase ‘Mascara and Muscles’, there are so many awesome sites so go check them out!  Keep Water Handy.  While you work out and sweat it out, your body is dehydrating.  Make sure you keep your body and skin hydrated by drinking water as you work out.  Avoid The Tanning Booth.  I know, I know, your gym membership is only ten dollars more for unlimited tanning a month. AVOID it!  Not only are you risking your skin of skin cancer but you are also damaging it and making it age rapidly.  Opt for a lightweight sunless tanner to still get that gorgeous glow without all the risk.  Wear SPF.  For those of you that enjoy exercising outdoors with the wonderful sun on your face and breeze blowing by you, you need to make sure your skin is protected by always having a lightweight, oil free, broad spectrum uva/uvb sunscreen.  Never leave home without it.       After A Good Workout… Take A Shower.  Once your body cools down, take a cool shower.  Your skin is not only covered in sweat and bacteria but your pores are open and more susceptible to infection.  After a nice shower with a gentle, oil free wash your skin will feel refreshed, cleansed and free from blemishes. Apply Alcohol Free Toner.  Balance your body’s ph levels and allow the toner to let products better penetrates your skin by spritzing on freshly clean, naked skin. Keep Your Skin Moisturized.  Even though the last thing you’d want after working out is your skin feeling heavy, you still need to keep it moisturized to make up for loss of water while exercising.  Apply a light, oil free moisturizer to not only provide the needed moisture but will help your skin from getting clogged pores. Rehydrate, replenish and detoxify skin while shielding it against harmful micropollutants with derma-e's silky, lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. Avoid Touching Your Face.  I have the habit of touching my face, often. Rubbing, touching and even just resting my head on my hands are bad habits that really should be stopped.  While gyms are susceptible to disgusting germs, there are bacteria everywhere you touch so while your pores are still open, avoid touching your face and allowing germs to enter the pores. Enjoy working towards all of your New Year’s Resolutions no matter what they may be.  Whether it’s losing weight, eating healthier, enjoying the small things or getting that dream job you are hoping for, keep your eyes on the prize and focus on what you want.   The New Year is a time to reevaluate your life and start fresh.  If any obstacles or hurdles get in your way, don’t let it stop you just let it make you stronger.  So grab your gym bag, lace up those sneakers and have fun getting active! Do it not only to fit in those jeans but to mentally feel amazing. Work it girl!     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.