Among the many things that make acne breakouts frustrating for those who deal with them, the fact that they have so many potential causes is definitely on this list prominently. From simple genetics to the kinds of foods you eat and many others, there are numerous things that may impact your acne and breakout frequency -- and one area that some don't consider closely enough here is the skincare program you're utilizing.
At Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic, we're proud to offer a wide range of acne treatment services to clients throughout Salt Lake City and nearby parts of Utah, helping limit breakouts to leave your skin looking great. We regularly advise clients on their skincare routine, including in situations where it's possible that your skincare habits themselves are contributing to a worsening of your acne symptoms. Here are some possible examples of situations where this may be the case, plus why these risks should be avoided and some good alternatives in some situations.
In some cases, those who deal with acne will be using the proper product -- but only on visible blemishes, treating their acne with spot treatments but not using a more comprehensive skincare routine to address any underlying causes of breakouts. Unfortunately, this is not effective in many situations and can even be counterproductive -- leading to further inflammation or other problems that may actually worsen your skin's appearance rather than improving it.
Rather, it's important to use your acne medication across the entire area of skin that's breaking out, ensuring that you're applying the maximum amount of medication to all problem areas rather than just parts where pimples are visible. This will help reduce outbreaks and stop your skin from looking worse due to the presence of unaddressed breakouts underneath the surface.
While we all wish we could try a new product and immediately see a reduction or even elimination of acne, the reality is that you often need to give a new product time to work before drawing any conclusions. Trying a new skincare program too frequently while also using other products that may not be truly "the one" can actually lead to skin irritation and the exacerbation of your acne symptoms, making it much more difficult to find something that works well for you in the long-term.
To avoid this common pitfall, it's best to focus on a few products at once and give them the time they need to work. If you've followed your regimen for several weeks without seeing significant improvement, it may be worth trying another option -- otherwise, you can stick with what works well for your skin rather than potentially worsening the situation by trying a new option more frequently than is ideal.
And as you may have guessed, switching products is something you should discuss with a professional before starting, as they can help you choose something that's properly suited to your skin type and the specific underlying causes of your acne breakouts.
In other cases, your selection of products themselves will be the culprit for breakouts in your skin. Specifically, certain types of makeup and other cosmetic products may include ingredients that are irritating to your skin or aggravate acne -- both factors that can lead to the worsening of acne symptoms and make it harder to find a solution.
For example, you may be using skincare products that contain oil-based moisturizers, which will lead to a worsening of acne breakouts if left untreated. Similarly, you may be using makeup containing ingredients like lanolin, which can also be irritating and lead to the spread or worsening of your acne symptoms.
Since this is an area where many people do not realize potential risks, it's best to take the time to research each product you're considering using, including those that are outside your skincare routines. This will help avoid potential problems and ensure you're using products that promote healthy skin -- rather than leading to more breakouts down the line.
Even if you use makeup that's approved for use on your skin type, it's still possible that leaving makeup on overnight will lead to increased sensitivity and breakouts. And this is particularly the case with oily or acne-prone skin types, where those ingredients that are designed to reduce oiliness can actually make your problem worse.
While we understand it's tempting to try and combat the oily nature of acne by drying up your skin as much as possible, this is actually an approach that can make the problem worse in the long-term. By drying out too much, you risk irritating your skin and triggering inflammation or other reactions that will make your acne symptoms even more prominent. Additionally, dryness increases oil production, which means you'll have a worsening of symptoms rather than an improvement.
Instead, use moisturizers and other products that are appropriate for your skin type, as they will help keep inflammation at bay and reduce the risk of breakouts from occurring. Just be sure to choose options that won't further irritate or clog up your pores, and you'll have an easier time finding a skincare program that truly works for acne-prone skin rather than leading to more breakouts.
With the right skincare habits, you'll help limit or even eliminate acne rather than worsening it. For more on this, or to learn about any of our acne treatments or other skincare products and services, speak to our staff at Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic today.
The internet is never short on advice for curing whatever might ail you. When it comes to skincare advice – particularly acne treatment – you can find literally thousands of online articles and videos offering advice.
However, before you turn to TikTok for your skin treatment advice, stop to consider that this kind of advice could be more harmful than beneficial.
Anyone who suffers from acne-prone skin needs to tread carefully in how they care for their face and what products they use for skincare, makeup, sunscreen, etc. Here, the experienced team from Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic has advice on some of the “hottest” acne treatment trends that you should avoid.
Recently, many so-called internet “experts” (which are typically influencers with no qualifications or knowledge about treating acne) have been offering up their own recipes for making skincare products such as scrubs and moisturizers. Unless the “expert” has actual qualifications or can provide research to back up their claims, you could be causing yourself more trouble in the future.
Today, you can go on Amazon and purchase virtually any type of cosmetic treatment device imaginable. This ranges from blue light therapy devices to laser wands and beyond. This first challenge these devices present is that most are designed for consumer use, which means they are likely little more than gizmos that don’t provide any benefit. However, some of these devices can actually lead to skin damage that could leave you with worsening acne and even potential scarring.
You might think that masks and peels are helpful for stripping away dirt and oils from your face – and they can be, in some cases – however, they are more likely to be stripping away more than just topical debris. In fact, the ingredients contained in many masks can strip away all the natural, beneficial oils from your face. They can even strip away healthy skin cells. The result is irritated, overly dry skin, which makes the perfect breeding ground for acne flareups.
This is not to say that you can’t use natural products on your skin. However, it is important that you identify the specific ingredients contained in any skincare product. Many natural and even organic ingredients can cause skin irritation and clogged pores. Consult a list of pore-clogging ingredients and you will quickly find some of the most popular natural product ingredients, such as cocoa butter and coconut oil.
So, if you can’t turn to the internet to get advice on acne treatments, how can you find the help you need to get your skin issues under control? If you need to treat acne in Salt Lake City, turn to the Skintherapy team for help.
Since 2008, we have been helping people get the clear skin they’ve dreamed of – and helped them maintain it for the future. Contact us now to learn more about our treatments or to schedule your consultation to treat acne in Salt Lake City.
If you have been battling with skin issues, you might already know that a solid acne treatment routine is one of the best ways to get problem breakouts under control. Unfortunately, when fighting the battle with acne, things might seem to be taking longer than you would like.
If you’re looking for a few easy ways to help boost your acne treatment regimen – and speed up the path to clear skin – here are some simple tips that can help.
Research has shown that diet may indeed have an impact on acne. Specifically, a high-glycemic index diet has been linked to an increase in skin problems related to acne vulgaris. Avoiding foods such containing sugar, along with refined foods such as white bread, cookies, chips, cereal, pasta, etc., can help keep your skin looking and feeling great. It’s also a good idea to avoid or minimize alcohol consumption.
Replace these troublesome foods with healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
If you have problems with breakouts, you might also have the urge or inclination to pick at your blemishes. Unfortunately, picking can cause all kinds of additional problems. Specifically, picking leads to an increase in scar tissue and hyperpigmentation. Even worse, picking can significantly extend the time required to clear up acne flareups.
For help with this challenge, check out our tips to stop picking at your skin.
Lurking within many of the most popular skincare products – including cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreen and even hair conditioner – are a wide variety of poor-clogging, skin-irritating ingredients. Many products marketed at organic, noncomedogenic or even formulated for acne-prone skin can clog your pores and exacerbate skin problems. Some prescription products even contain one of these pore-clogging ingredients.
In reality, the best approach is to use only those acne skin care products that have been custom formulated for acne-prone skin.
As hard as you might try to fight this battle on your own, one of the best ways to overcome acne problems is to get help from a professional expert.
The good news is that you don’t have to see a medical specialist to get the help you need. Finding an experienced esthetician who specializes in acne treatment might be the answer you’ve been looking for.
In Salt Lake City, the Skintherapy acne treatment clinic can help. Rather than prescribing harsh chemical treatments or potentially risky medications, we tackle the problem at its source. Once we have identified the issues causing your problems, we can guide you through the process of getting – and keeping – your skin clear.
Contact us now to learn more about our personalized acne treatment and our professional acne clinic in Salt Lake City.
Wearing makeup can be important for helping you look and feel your best. Getting your makeup just right can boost your self-confidence and make you feel ready to face the day.
Unfortunately, if you are prone to acne breakouts, makeup can be problematic. You can experience skin irritation and clogged pores, leading to increased problem. In turn, you might be tempted to use even more makeup, in an attempt to cover up the problem.
Choosing the right products can make all the difference in the world. The question is, how do you know whether your makeup is helping or hurting your skin challenges?
Yes, makeup can cause acne. However, not all types of makeup will trigger breakouts or make an existing problem worse.
The biggest challenge is that some acne-causing products won’t cause breakouts right away. In fact, it can take up to several months for flareups to appear. At that point, it can be challenging to determine which products are causing the problem.
The most critical consideration is the ingredients found in the products you select. In fact, even products that are labeled as non-comedogenic can contain ingredients that clog the pores and lead to breakouts.
The good news is that you can find acne safe makeup products, which you can use successfully without causing or exacerbating flareups. In fact, if you choose the right acne safe makeup, it can even help keep skin flareups at bay.
It is important to note, however, that even using makeup products designed for acne-prone skin might not be enough to tackle challenging skin issues. The best approach is to adopt an overall skincare regimen using nothing but products designed for acneic skin. In fact, to ensure that you aren’t having problems from pore-clogging ingredients, consider extending this routine to incorporate acne safe shampoo, conditioner and hair care products.
Choosing an acne safe makeup can be confusing, even if you’ve done tons of research. Just take a look at this list of pore-clogging ingredients. Imagine having to read every label in search of any of these troublesome components.
A better option is to select a makeup line that has been formulated specifically for acne prone skin – like those available from Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic. Our products provide flawless coverage without causing skin irritation or clogging the pores.
Contact us today to learn more about our innovative skin care line and acne safe makeup.
If you suffer from acne or another troubling skin condition, you have probably started taking notice of ingredients.
If you haven’t yet started poring over acne skincare product labels to see what they contain, is that something you need to be concerned about?
The truth is that high-quality skincare ingredients do make a difference in product effectiveness. In fact, unless you take great care in the selection of your products, you could find your acne problem getting worse.
Products formulated with lower quality ingredients can sometimes appear to feel or perform similarly to better quality products, at least on the surface. For example, skin moisturizers that contain pore-clogging ingredients might seem to glide on and leave your skin feeling pampered.
However, if that product actually contains lower quality, pore-clogging ingredients, you could soon see the results reflected in your skin.
In fact, even so-called “natural” or “organic” products can contain ingredients such as jojoba oil, kelp, coconut oil or cocoa butter, which are some of the biggest offenders for clogging the pores.
It’s not uncommon to believe that, if some of a good thing is helpful, a lot of that good thing must be better. The truth is that’s not generally the case. In fact, in many cases, too much of even the best skincare ingredients can cause skin irritation, dryness, or another potential problem.
Custom blended skincare products – especially skincare products for acne – are formulated based on proprietary blends and ingredients. When you choose these products, you can rest assured that you’ll be getting the best quality and, most importantly, you’ll be getting the results you’re looking for.
If you are looking for the highest quality skincare products and acne treatments in Salt Lake City, trust Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic. All of our skincare products, makeup and tools are specifically formulated for use with acne-prone skin.
We offer a comprehensive line of skincare products, including toners, cleansers, serums, moisturizers and masks. You can purchase any of our exceptional products, but we strongly recommend that you do so as a part of an overall acne treatment plan.
Our experienced estheticians have been helping acne sufferers achieve their goals for clear skin since 2008. Our proven treatment regimens let you say goodbye to acne for good, and welcome the healthy, vibrant skin you’ve dreamed of.
Contact us now to learn more about our skincare products or to schedule your acne treatments in Salt Lake City.
Summer months are coming, and for many that means more time out in the sun—and more skin-baring activities outdoors. Learning how to properly care for skin can help you feel confident while you’re out and about. Here are some common myths about summer skincare that we can debunk today.
Fact: Summer might require a few small changes in skincare, but when you use high-quality products specific to your skin’s needs, you probably don’t need to change much. Depending on where you live, summer might bring more humidity. If that’s the case you might want to adjust your moisturizer to a lighter, oil-free formula to minimize oily skin and prevent buildup of dirt and oils that could increase the chance of an acne breakout. A skincare consultant can help you find the right one.
Fact: Sun protection doesn’t necessarily last all day, so depending on how long you are out in the sun, and what activities you are doing, you may need to reapply. Using a moisturizer or other face cream with SPF is a good start in the morning. But it can wear off within a few hours, so on a normal day you should reapply every two to three hours. If you’re sweating, swimming, or playing in the water, you definitely need to reapply sunscreen more often.
When you do reapply, make sure you are using a sunscreen product that is designed for face application. Look for non-comedogenic products that won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts.
Fact: Ultraviolet rays from the sun can penetrate clouds, so during summer months (and all year-round) you should still apply sunscreen whenever you are outside. Just like on sunny days, apply it every two to three hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Fact: When you first start using retinol it could cause your skin to be more sensitive to sunlight (called photosensitivity), but over time your skin will adapt to retinol use. If you just started using retinol or retinoids, apply sunscreen before you go out or wear a hat to protect your face from UV rays. Retinols can also degrade when exposed to UV rays, so apply your products at night (not in the morning before you go outside) for maximum benefit.
Fact: Even in the summer it’s important to keep natural oil levels balanced. If you skip moisturizer, it could cause your skin to over-produce oils to avoid getting dry. Other acne treatment products with harsh ingredients can also cause skin to dry out. That can lead to irritation, redness, dry skin, and worsening acne breakouts. Talk to a skincare consultant about how to find the right moisturizer for balanced oil levels without a heavy, greasy feeling.
If you’re not sure how to care for your skin this summer, or want help with acne breakouts, schedule an appointment to talk to one of our skincare consultants online today.
Those pimples can be frustrating, especially when they pop up out of nowhere or get irritated and red. Unfortunately, most of us can’t avoid the occasional flare-up. When that happens, acne spot treatments might be the right answer.
Acne spot treatments are either over-the-counter or prescription creams that you use directly on a blemish to clear it up. They usually contain a concentrated dose of some of the most common acne-fighting ingredients, such as:
The goal of an acne spot treatment is to apply a high dose of acne-fighting ingredients to a breakout. It’s not intended for use on your whole face, and usually not something you would use over long periods of time.
Apply a small dab of acne spot treatment directly to the pimple and leave it on for several hours. Many people use these treatments overnight to give skin time to absorb the acne-fighting ingredients and avoid obvious spot treatments on your skin during the day. You can wash your face when you wake up, or after a few hours, to remove any of the excess product that remains.
Common mistakes people make when using acne spot treatments include:
If you have questions about how to use spot treatments, or need to find a good treatment for your occasional acne flare-ups, contact one of our skincare consultants today.
Acne can be frustrating and embarrassing, but for people with sensitive skin the challenges of breakouts are often complicated. That’s because most acne treatment options include harsh ingredients that can cause even more irritation, redness, and pain. These dos and don’ts for treating acne with sensitive skin can help you get clearer skin without making skin sensitivity worse.
Cleansing is the first step to getting clearer skin, but many cleansers marketed for eliminating breakouts come with harsh ingredients that can make skin irritation worse. Look for cleansers that have glycerin or ceramides, two ingredients that increase hydration and provide an added barrier against outside irritants like pollution. Avoid alcohols, sulfates, and other synthetic or chemical ingredients, which can cause even more irritation. And don’t forget to use a daily moisturizer designed for sensitive skin to boost skin hydration.
Many people think that harsh scrubs and exfoliating cleansers are better for removing dirt and bacteria that can lead to acne. But for someone with sensitive skin, these irritants can damage the outer layers of skin, causing inflammation and increasing skin’s sensitivity.
Anytime you try a new skincare product you should test it out in a small area to check for a reaction. This is definitely true if you have sensitive skin, because your skin might be more prone to breakouts, rashes, or other negative side effects. When you know it won’t cause an allergic reaction, start by using it every other day (about three times a week) to make sure your skin can tolerate it without getting too dry or irritated.
More isn’t always better, and that is definitely true for treating breakouts on sensitive skin. There are dozens of different products available today, and many come with expensive-looking packaging or marketing campaigns to make you believe they can cure your acne. But using several different products at once can irritate sensitive skin, and in some cases the active ingredients could actually work against each other. Instead, talk to a skincare professional who understands what products will be effective and how to use them.
Anyone who suffers with acne or who wants to try out new products should consult a skincare professional first. That’s especially true for someone with unique skin concerns, like sensitivity. A skincare consultation can help you discover the best products and the right ingredients to clear up acne and breakouts without causing more damage or increasing inflammation or irritation. Schedule your consultation online today to learn more about what high-quality acne-fighting skincare should be in your daily routine.
If you have browsed beauty blogs or looked into skincare routines lately, you’ve probably seen a lot of content about serums. So what exactly are they, and how do you incorporate them into a daily skincare routine to maximize the benefits? Here is a basic overview of the benefits of serum, who should be using it, and how to make sure you get the most out of it.
Serums fall into a broad category of skincare. Most are lighter than typical lotions or creams, often in the form of a gel or liquid. The active ingredients in a serum are more concentrated, giving your skin a big boost in one specific area, such as reducing dark spots, targeting acne, or enhancing skin’s “glow.” Serums are not new in skincare, but they are experiencing unprecedented growth. Results from the 2021 State of the Beauty Industry report showed 15% to 24% growth for face serums and facial cleansers, the highest among any of the specific beauty categories.
Adding a serum to your routine can be very beneficial. Some of the most common ingredients found in serums, and their specific benefits, include:
One challenge with adding a serum to your routine is finding one that addresses your skincare needs and is worth the cost. Unfortunately, there is little oversight in the industry, so companies can overpromise on results without the high-quality ingredients to back it up. For that reason, it’s important to purchase serums from skincare companies committed to product quality and results.
When you’re ready to add a serum to your routine, the first step is to figure out what serum(s) you need. That depends on your skin type and concerns—such as acne, dullness, dryness, or wrinkles. A skincare consultation can help you get the answers to both of those questions.
Next, you need to understand how and when to apply the serum so it can absorb completely into your skin for the most benefit. Generally, your routine should go:
Moisturizers are thicker and heavier, so they could block some of the serum from getting deeper into your skin. What time of day you apply a serum also matters:
If you still need help figuring out your skincare routine, talk to one of the skincare specialists at Skintherapy today by scheduling an online consultation.
By now everyone knows that sunscreen is an essential part of your skincare routine in the summer. When you are outside on a hot summer day it’s easy to understand why—you can feel those UV rays penetrating and burning your skin within minutes. But it can be harder to remember that you still need to protect your skin from UV rays in a colder climate during the winter months.
There are several reasons people forget sunscreen in the winter. For starters, you probably are wearing clothing that covers most of your skin’s surface. You also won’t always feel your skin getting warm because the air outside is cold. The sun is farther in the southern sky, which means its rays might not feel as potent as they do in the summer months, and there are fewer hours of daylight so the “peak” sunlight hours are shorter in winter.
The skin on your face is often the only part of your body exposed to the sun in winter. Using skincare products with built-in SPF can help you stay protected.
If you’ve ever skipped sunscreen on a cloudy summer day, you probably learned your lesson. Just because you don’t see the sun doesn’t mean those ultraviolet (UV) rays aren’t getting through. There are actually two types of UV rays:
UVA rays are better at penetrating clouds, which means even on a cloudy winter day you can still be at risk.
UVB rays are more likely to reflect off the surface of the snow when you’re outside participating in winter sports, like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. SPF sunscreen provides extra protection on your face, neck, and arms (if they’re exposed) to prevent sunburn.
You might think that staying inside in the winter is a great way to protect against sun damage, but it’s not a foolproof plan. UV rays can still penetrate glass, which means if you ride a bus, drive in a car, or sit near a window in your office during the day, you might be exposed to ultraviolet rays. Fortunately glass does block UVB rays well, but it doesn’t block UVA rays as well. Additionally, some research shows that blue light from screens could harm your skin. SPF sunscreen can protect your skin in both cases.
The ozone layer—part of the stratosphere between 10 and 20 miles above the Earth’s surface—absorbs UV radiation from the sun, specifically harmful UVB rays that can increase the risk of skin cancer. The concentration of ozone molecules is lower in the winter months, which means there is less protection from those harmful rays. SPF products that protect against both UVA and UVB rays are essential to prevent excess skin damage in winter, and reduce your risk of skin cancers.
Learn more about protecting your skin and discover how to keep your face healthy, even in winter, by talking to our skincare experts at Skintherapy.
Winter is a tough time for your skin, but with the right skincare routine you can overcome the dry air and dreary days to maintain healthy, beautiful skin. The key is knowing which products to use, and how to adjust your normal routine to account for harsh weather. These tips will help you maintain a healthy beautiful glow throughout the year.
Common irritants like alcohol and fragrance can amplify skin irritation. This leads to redness, as well as itchy, dry, and flaky skin. If your skin is sensitive, it’s also a good idea to avoid fragrances, since these ingredients can cause irritation too.
Having a regular skincare routine can significantly improve skin health—that’s true all year round, but especially in the winter months. Regularly cleansing skin to remove dead skin cells, using a gentle toner, serum, and moisturizer at least once a day can prevent damage from harsh winter conditions. It’s much easier to keep skin healthy than to try and repair it after it gets damaged.
Sometimes it’s difficult to remember sunscreen in the winter months, especially if you live in a colder climate. You probably aren’t planning to do any sunbathing in that sub-30-degree weather, but the skin on your face is still exposed. The sun’s rays are just as potent in the winter as they are in the summer. In fact, the sun’s rays can be even more damaging if you’re outside participating in winter sports, because the sun reflects off the snow. So keep your face and neck covered every day by using a sunscreen with a minimum of 15 to 30 SPF.
If you put moisturizer on whenever your skin seems dry, you might be missing some of the benefits. Your skin will absorb more of the moisturizer when it’s damp, so adding moisturizer soon after cleansing your face, or after you get out of a bath or shower, means more of the hydrating benefits will get into your skin layers.
While you sleep, your skin is repairing the damage from the previous day. So first, you want to make sure you get plenty of sleep. Second, talk to a skincare consultant about adding an extra step to your nighttime skin routine to include serums, masks, or toners that have moisture-boosting ingredients.
Many people think about skincare products to take care of dry skin, but supplements and diet can also play a role in skin health. Take a supplement product that includes skin-boosting ingredients like omega 3, 6, and 9. Examine your diet as well, and add healthy fats like avocados, nuts and seeds, and lots of fruits and veggies. Then make sure you get plenty of water so your whole body stays hydrated.
Find out more ways you can improve your skin with high-quality products formulated to improve skin texture, reduce acne breakouts, and give you the glowing skin you want. Schedule a consultation with a Skintherapy professional today.
Hyaluronic acid is an ingredient that has gotten a lot of attention when it comes to skincare. But what is it, what benefits does it provide, and how should you be using it in your skincare routine (or should you be using it at all)? We’ll cover the basics to help you decide.
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring group of sugar molecules (polysaccharides) that are already present in your body. It works to provide moisture to your skin, as well as cushioning and moisturizing your joints and other connective tissues. As you age, the amount of hyaluronic acid in your body declines. This can lead to skin that looks dry, or increase the appearance of wrinkles on the skin’s surface. Other lifestyle and environmental factors, like smoking or living in areas with high air pollution, can accelerate the loss of this ingredient in your body.
To prevent the damage that comes from declining hyaluronic acid, you can supplement your body’s natural stores. Many people do that with topical serums and creams (although it’s possible to do it by taking oral supplements as well, but most people prefer the convenience of applying it to skin).
When you use a hyaluronic acid, the sugar molecules bind to water to increase the amount of water present in your skin cells. In fact, the molecules can absorb about 1,000 times their weight in water, making them a super-moisturizer for your skin. Without moisture, your skin will appear dry and flaky, and it can be more vulnerable to damage from the environment, like sun and pollution. With more moisture content, skin is healthier and has a stronger barrier to resist damage. It also looks more plump, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
There are three main types of hyaluronic acid that you will find in most skincare and beauty products:
Depending on your needs, you can look for hyaluronic acid serums, moisturizers, and even cleansers. Check the full ingredient list before you buy to make sure there are no allergens in the product that would irritate your skin. If you can find serums or creams that also have vitamin C, the two can work in tandem to improve moisturizing effectiveness.
If you have sensitive or dry skin, you should avoid any HA products with:
If you’re curious about HA and its benefits, talk to one of our skincare specialists at Skintherapy. We can help you sort through all the different hyaluronic acid options to find the one that’s perfect for you.
A proper skincare routine should include moisturizer, and that seems pretty straightforward. You just get a moisturizer and apply it to your face to keep it from getting too dry, right? Wrong. Hydration is one of the key aspects of healthy skin, but slapping on some lotion you found on the drugstore shelf isn’t necessarily the best option. Here are four common mistakes people make when it comes to moisturizer, and how you can adjust your routine to ensure that your skin gets all the hydration it needs to stay healthy.
Moisturizer acts as a barrier between your skin and the outside world. Applying moisturizer without cleansing the skin first could actually be doing the opposite of what you want—sealing in irritants like dirt and bacteria. Cleansing first clears away that stuff so the moisturizer penetrates deeper layers of skin and provides better hydration.
Additionally, your skin is most absorbent when it’s damp, so wait to apply moisturizer until after a shower or after washing your face to get the most benefit.
Some people with oily skin (incorrectly) believe that moisturizer will make things worse. In fact, not using moisturizer might be contributing to excess oil. When skin is too dry, it overcompensates by producing more oils, leading to acne breakouts. Skipping moisturizing could create a vicious cycle of too little hydration, overproduction of oil, and more breakouts.
However, it is important for people with oily and acne-prone skin to use moisturizer with ingredients that will fight acne. If you’re not sure what kind of moisturizer you need, talk to a skincare professional to find a product that will limit breakouts and help your skin.
There are plenty of things that can disrupt your skin’s moisture content. Cold weather, UV rays, hot water, dry air, and products. As you get older, your skin also has a harder time holding onto the lipids in your skin layer that capture and hold moisture. Regularly applying moisturizer keeps lipids from getting damaged, which can lead to dry skin. It’s harder to repair that layer once it’s damaged so regular application is essential.
Perhaps the most common mistake people make with facial moisturizer is not knowing what product(s) to use. There are a lot of options, and the right one depends on skin type and concerns:
If you’re still confused and frustrated trying to figure out what moisturizer to use, talk to a skincare professional. They can help you find the right products made with high-quality ingredients designed just for your skin. Schedule a Skintherapy consultation today.
You’ve probably seen a lot of advertisements about the benefits of exfoliating products. Many exfoliating ingredients today are added to cleansers so you can conveniently use them in your regular routine. So what is an exfoliating cleanser, and do you need one?
Cleansing is an essential step in your face wash routine, and everyone should be using a basic facial cleanser to remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other things that get on your skin throughout the day. There are a variety of different types of cleansers, including water-based cleansers, gel cleansers, cleansing wipes, and foaming cleansers. Some are designed for specific skin types, such as oily or dry skin.
Exfoliating cleansers are different from typical face wash. They still have ingredients to cleanse your face, but have a second ingredient that removes dead skin cells. There are two ways to do this:
It’s also important to distinguish these cleansers from facial scrubs. Scrubs usually contain more exfoliating ingredients and should only be used occasionally. Most exfoliating cleansers are gentle enough to use every day.
Exfoliating cleansers are beneficial as part of your facial cleansing routine because they can help remove stubborn dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. If these cells remain, they can mix with dirt and oils that clog your pores and contribute to acne blemishes. Some exfoliating cleansers also reduce bacteria on the surface of your skin, which helps reduce breakouts.
When you clear away all the dead skin cells, it also lets your healthy skin show through, which can give you an instant “glow.” Plus your other skin products can more effectively penetrate your skin when you clean out the dead skin cells, oils, dirt, and anything else that might cause clogged pores.
Exfoliating cleansers are a great addition to most skincare routines, but only if you have the right products and use them at the right times. Use an exfoliating cleanser once a day at the beginning of your skincare routine. Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer based on your skincare needs.
The most important thing to keep in mind before adding an exfoliating cleanser to your routine is that everyone’s skin is different. Exfoliating cleansers will affect skin differently for oily, dry, or combination skin. If you have serious breakouts, you also don’t want to use an exfoliating cleanser that might irritate the skin and make your breakouts red and painful.
It's best to talk to a skincare professional before trying any new skincare regimen, including exfoliating cleansers. Schedule a personalized online consultation today with Skintherapy Skin care & Acne Clinic to discuss your needs and find the right exfoliating cleanser.
You have probably seen it a lot in advertising—the promise that a specific product can “shrink” your large pores. It’s something that many brands and skincare companies advertise products that will shrink or minimize the look of pores. The problem with this claim is that it’s actually not possible to shrink pores. It’s a persistent myth that you can somehow change the size of your pores, and it’s important to understand why this isn’t the reality.
Pores are small openings in your skin that provide essential oils to moisturize skin and keep it from drying out. The ones connected to large sebaceous glands (which secrete sebum oils) naturally appear bigger. These pores are often more visible on the forehead, nose, and cheeks. Pores also secrete sweat when your body gets hot, which is a natural method for keeping your skin cool. Without them you would overheat and eventually die.
The size of your pores is largely based on genetics. Just like your height and the color of your skin, hair, and eyes, your pores are part of your DNA. There is no way to make large pores get smaller, and no facial care products can alter your DNA, which is a good thing.
A quick online search reveals millions of results in a search for “how to shrink pores,” but these are all based on myths that are shared and persist in beauty circles. Common (but misguided) recommendations on shrinking pores include:
Neither of these quick-fix recommendations actually alter the size of your pores. They may temporarily change the appearance of pores, but within a few minutes or hours your pores will revert back to the way they looked before.
While you cannot shrink pores on your face, you can use products that will provide better care for your skin and improve your overall skin health. When pores are clogged with dirt, oil, and bacteria they get swollen and may appear larger than normal. Sun damage can also make pores appear larger by removing collagen, elastin and moisture that keeps skin plump and healthy.
Simple solutions for keeping your pores clean and healthy include:
If you have questions about skincare and how to improve the health of your pores, talk to a skincare specialist at Skintherapy today to discuss your concerns. Book a consultation online to get started.
Two common ingredients that are widely used in acne-fighting products are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Perhaps you noticed these two products in different creams, face washes, and serums and wondered what the difference is between the two, and whether one is more effective than the other. We’ll go over some of the key differences and when each ingredient is most appropriate for your skincare routine.
Salicylic acid actually does not treat acne itself. Instead, it targets the cause of acne by dissolving the skin cells that sit on the surface of the face, neck, and chest. Those dead skin cells are one of the primary culprits for clogged pores, which are at the root of many breakouts. When they mix with oils on your skin and dirt or bacteria, you’ll see breakouts. Salicylic acid also works to remove some of the excess oils on your skin surface, smoothing out skin texture and improving skin appearance.
Salicylic acid works best for blackheads and whiteheads, which are caused by clogged pores but don’t have associated inflammation or bacteria.
Salicylic acid can cause some skin dryness because it removes excess oils, which can leave skin feeling tingly or itchy. If you notice hives, peeling skin, or a stinging or tingling feeling after using it, stop and talk to a skincare professional to figure out if there are other options. If you are allergic to aspirin, do not use salicylic acid.
Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial face wash that kills the bacteria that causes acne (Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes). When you use it as a topical agent, it can eliminate skin conditions that are more conducive to acne development. You apply it topically (to your skin) and it can work quickly to kill bacteria and clear up your skin. It works both preventively to keep skin from developing acne, and as a spot treatment to fight breakouts.
Since benzoyl peroxide has antibacterial properties, it works best for pimples and pustules that result from bacteria in your pores, which causes inflammation and a breakout.
One of the most common side effects of benzoyl peroxide is dry skin. It usually causes more dryness than salicylic acid, so it might not work for people with very sensitive skin, or those with another skincare condition like eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis. Talk to a skincare professional about any skin conditions you have before using benzoyl peroxide.
The other common concern people have is stains or bleaching. The active ingredient in benzoyl peroxide can stain or bleach clothing, towels, and hair. Wash your hands after use and avoid getting the product on fabrics.
Before you use benzoyl peroxide with retinoids, such as retinol or tretinoin, or with abrasive cleansers, talk to a skincare professional because the active ingredients can cause a skin reaction if used incorrectly.
To find out more about what skincare products would work best for your breakouts, it’s important to talk to a qualified skincare professional. They can identify the type of acne you have, and help you select which product will work best. In some situations they may also recommend a combination of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Schedule your online consultation today with Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic.
There is a lot of information out there about treating acne on your face and neck, but that’s not the only place that you can have acne. Since acne is your body’s inflammatory reaction to clogged pores, you can get it anywhere on your body where there are pores (which is basically everywhere).
The most common places to find acne besides your face are:
While body acne might not always be as visible as the stuff on your face, it can still be embarrassing and even painful. Here are four ways to effectively eliminate it when it comes up.
Any effective treatment regimen first begins with an analysis of the problem. It’s not always as straightforward as just needing to shower more or cleanse your skin better. Body acne can be the result of:
Body acne occurs when pores get clogged with dirt, oils, and bacteria, and your daily routine might be making that worse. Evaluating your daily routine to try and control the things you can (lifestyle factors) can help clear up body acne.
The most common lifestyle factors that lead to body acne are workout routines and products you use for hair and skin.
If you get sweaty during your workout and wait a long time to shower, bacteria has a chance to build up on the skin. Wearing synthetic fabrics can also keep bacteria and sweat right next to the skin. Switch to cotton workout clothes, and make sure to shower right after your workout.
Another lifestyle factor is the products you use. Your hair and body care products could be clogging your pores with heavy oils. Try switching up your routine to avoid these products and see if your body acne clears up.
Most people use soap or body wash to cleanse skin. While this works for general cleansing, basic soap products are not designed to fight body acne. Instead, you need a face and body scrub that is specifically designed to fight acne with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. An exfoliating product can also help remove dead skin cells and other things that clog pores and lead to breakouts.
Sometimes you can do everything right and still have body acne. When that happens, it’s best to talk to a skincare specialist who can help you identify the type of body acne you are experiencing and find high-quality products that effectively clear up your skin. Schedule an online consultation with a Skintherapy specialist today to get advice on how to clear up your body acne today.
Find the best skincare products and learn more about how to fight body acne by scheduling an appointment with a skincare consultant at Skintherapy today.
When you first see the signs of a pimple popping up on your face or neck you probably immediately reach for the nearest acne-fighting tools that you can get your hands on. For millions of people that means something you found on the shelf of a drugstore, a local big-box store, or online.
Unfortunately there is no guarantee that your skincare routine is actually going to work to get rid of your acne. Instead, you are paying money for products and going through the motions while still seeing that frustrating acne on your face, neck, or body. If that sounds like you, it might be time to enlist the help of a professional in treating your acne. Here are three reasons you shouldn’t be fighting this on your own.
The skincare products you find on the shelf of a local big-box store or online are usually formulated for a mass market. That means they are not specific to your needs. Everyone has different skin, which means treating acne requires a specialized regimen that has:
When you are just winging it buying things from the drugstore or online, you may not be helping your acne at all. You may even be doing things that could make acne worse. Working with a skincare professional ensures that you get exactly the right products based on your skin and your acne-fighting needs.
Anyone who has spent a few minutes online or standing in a skincare aisle knows that there are a lot of products. Thousands to choose from, in fact. Each one has marketing claims about being the best thing for to fight acne and clear up skin, but without advanced knowledge of skincare ingredients it’s hard to know which products you can trust.
When you work with a professional to get a skincare and acne treatment regimen, you get knowledge and expertise of all the ingredients and tools available to design a routine that will work.
The products you can buy at the store—and some that you can buy online—don’t always have the highest quality ingredients. Some companies cut corners or use fillers and cheap ingredients to make their products more affordable. A skincare professional can help you sort through the products that won’t work to recommend the ones with the highest quality ingredients to be most effective.
Schedule a consultation with a Skintherapy skincare professional today to discuss your acne concerns and find products for your needs.
Every season can present unique challenges for your skin. Just like the weather changes, so do your skincare needs. Let’s talk about some of the most common myths about skincare and acne treatment in the summer.
Fact: Acne is not affected by the amount of sun that your skin gets, so getting a tan will not clear up your acne. If your skin looks darker it might change the appearance of your acne, but it doesn’t address any of the underlying causes or issues. In fact, getting a tan—and a sunburn if you’re not careful—can damage your skin and increase the risk of melanoma (skin cancer).
The best way to clear up acne is not by going out in the sun, it’s with effective acne treatment products and a consistent skincare routine. And anytime you go out in the sun you should be using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect against sunburn and sun damage.
No matter how light or dark your skin is, it can still get damaged from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. You should always wear sunscreen whenever you go out in the sun. However, if you are going to put sunscreen on your face it’s important to make sure it’s good for your skin and won’t cause breakouts.
Fact: This myth likely comes from the idea that opening up your pores (in a steam room or with a hot towel) can help pores release dirt and bacteria, but it’s not based in fact. Sweat could actually make your acne worse if it traps bacteria and dirt inside your pores and you don’t clean it out properly.
After being outside when it’s hot, and getting dirty and sweaty, it’s a good idea to cleanse your face so dirt and oils don’t get trapped in your pores.
Fact: Drinking water is a great thing to do, and it’s important to get at least eight glasses of water per day for your body to stay hydrated. Drinking more water is also good for your skin health, but just drinking water might not be enough to keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. Dry skin can have an excess buildup of dead skin cells that clog pores and make breakouts worse.
Find a high-quality moisturizer to use in the mornings and at night to keep your skin from getting too thirsty. If you live in an area with higher humidity, talk to a skincare specialist about which products can help your skin to stay healthy without making your skin oily.
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