Environmental factors cause premature skin aging, but the skin also reflects our overall physical and mental state. That is why many skin experts emphasize the importance of nurturing the skin both topically and internally. Their approach to skin care is called holistic because it addresses the root causes of skin imperfections rather than solely treating the skin.
This article focuses on the holistic facial, a cosmetic treatment that employs holistic skin care practices to improve the patient’s skin condition and general well-being.
What Is a Holistic Facial?
A holistic facial is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses various massage techniques with aromatherapy and natural skincare products to help the skin fight internal and external factors that cause damage.
The treatment is customized to each patient and involves a unique combination of plant-based products and ingredients, depending on their skin type and the issue they want to treat.
Note: Read our ultimate skin care guide to learn how to nurture your skin.
What Skin Conditions Can a Holistic Facial Help with?
A holistic facial can help with various skin issues, including:
Note: Holistic facials are one of many natural ways to alleviate symptoms and treat eczema. Discover other holistic eczema treatment methods.
Holistic Facial Benefits
The combination of acupressure, lymphatic massage, essential oils, and skincare products with potent botanical ingredients stimulate skin and body regeneration and offer a range of health benefits, including:
Improved circulation
Toxin removal
Increased collagen production
Relief from tension headaches
Relaxed muscles
Reduced sinus congestion
Reduced anxiety and stress
Improved sleep
What Can You Expect During a Holistic Facial Treatment?
A holistic facial is unique to each patient and involves different products and techniques depending on the patient’s needs. However, they all follow a similar structure.
1. Breathing and relaxation
- The treatment begins with a relaxing breathing session. The patient follows the provider’s instructions, deeply inhaling and exhaling while the provider massages their face, neck, shoulders, and upper chest with essential oils. The oils stimulate the patient’s sense of smell and relax the muscles.
2. Cleansing - The provider applies a natural cleanser infused with plant oils and floral waters to remove impurities from the pores, improve hydration and restore vitality to the skin.
3. Exfoliation - The provider uses a plant-based product with microcrystals based on cellulose to further remove dirt, dead cells, sebum, and other impurities from the patient’s skin and resurface a softer, cleaner layer.
4. Tonic - A tonic with an organic blend of botanical extracts calms and tones the skin, keeping inflammation in check.
5. Serums and masks - The provider applies all-natural serums infused with antioxidants and other skin-healing ingredients to help the skin fight free radicals and provide proper nourishment. Some practitioners use a face mask to further nourish the skin.
6. Massage - Before applying a moisturizer, the provider massages the skin, applying pressure to key points to rejuvenate and deeply relax the face and scalp.
A holistic facial is a gentle, non-invasive treatment suitable for most healthy adults, even pregnant women. However, a few conditions may pose a health risk. Your holistic skin care professional may need to reschedule or adapt the treatment if you have:
A skin infection
A scar tissue less than six months old
Cuts on the treatment area
Sunburn
Allergies
Undiagnosed lumps
A malignant tumor
Holistic Facial Cost
Holistic facials range from $40-50 to a few hundred dollars, depending on complimentary treatments paired with the massage.
At Vibrant Skin Bar, our holistic skin care specialist offers various facials ranging from $99 for Skin Rehab, a specialized treatment for acne-prone skin, to $125 for Remedy Facial, recommended for inflammation-prone or sensitive skin.
Conclusion
A holistic facial is a gentle cosmetic treatment offering multiple benefits for a brighter, rejuvenated complexion and a more relaxed body and mind.
Contact our friendly skin care specialists today to schedule a consultation!
18 Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles + Bonus Eye Mask
Dark circles often appear due to a combination of factors – genetics, lack of sleep, dehydration, unhealthy diet, aging, and more. Unless they result from genetics or a medical issue (e.g., allergies), a multifold approach can help reduce dark circles. It involves using eye creams that target the problem, seven or more hours of sleep every night, a balanced diet, and increased water intake.
This article lists 18 eye creams for dark circles that dermatologists, users, and beauty influencers tout as effective.
18 Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles
Our first eight picks contain medically approved formulations. Other products are a mix of celebrity-endorsed eye creams and effective products that fit everyone’s budget.
Bear in mind that topical solutions for dark circles take weeks or months to show results. For a quicker solution, try non-invasive cosmetic treatments such as microneedling or an under-eye filler.
If you suspect you have allergies, make sure to do tests and consider using nasal steroid sprays and antihistamines, in consultation with your healthcare provider.
1. TNS Illuminating Eye Cream by SkinMedica
TNS Illuminating Eye Cream uses high-quality ingredients in a proprietary formulation that includes:
A patented TNS complex and peptides – TNX complex includes growth factors, cytokines, antioxidants, and natural messenger proteins. These ingredients nourish the delicate under-eye area and eliminate excess pigments that cause dark circles.
N-Hydroxyssuccinimide, chrysin – Natural brightening agents that help fade dark spots and discoloration.
Boron nitride – Light-diffusing agent which helps reduce the appearance of dark circles and improves skin texture.
Panthenol, sodium hyaluronate, glycerin – Potent hydrating agents that help the under-eye area retain moisture and appear smoother.
The cream has a soft, creamy consistency. It is best used twice a day, in the morning and evening, after cleansing and toning the skin. Gently pat one to two pumps into the skin under the eyes and around the outside corners.
TNS Eye Repair is another high-performing eye cream by SkinMedica using the same TNS complex to repair skin damage and improve aging signs. It is designed for normal to dry skin.
Apart from growth factors and proteins in the TNS complex, the cream’s active ingredients include:
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate – A stable form of vitamin C with potent brightening properties that help reduce dark circles and balance skin tone.
Tocopheryl acetate – A stable form of vitamin E that helps protect the skin from free radicals.
Retinyl palmitate – A form of retinol that helps repair skin damage, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles.
N-Hydroxysuccinimide and chrysin – Light-diffusing agent which helps reduce the appearance of dark circles and improves skin texture.
Boron nitride – Potent hydrating agents that help the under-eye area retain moisture and appear smoother.
Use a spatula to scoop out and apply the product into the under-eye area and outer eye corners. Lightly pat the skin with your fingertips. Use in the morning and evening.
Instant Effect Gel EYE refreshes the under-eye area. It includes a stainless-steel rollerball to gently massage the gel under the eyes, helping reduce puffiness and improve the skin’s firmness.
The product’s key ingredients include green coffee to protect the skin from free radicals and sodium hyaluronate to draw moisture from the environment and provide hydration. A blend of algae and botanical extracts hydrate the skin and reduce puffiness.
The product is marketed for puffy eyes but can help reduce dark circles if they appear due to dehydration.
Apply it in the morning and evening for the best results.
Youth Eye Complex is an advanced, dermatologist-tested formula for aging skin. Key ingredients include:
Copper tripeptide growth factor – Rebuilds the skin’s protective barrier and strengthens the delicate under-eye area, giving it a firmer, smoother look.
Hyaluronic acid – A potent hydrating agent.
Pseudoalteromonas ferment extract – Increases elastin and collagen production, improving the skin’s firmness and reducing puffiness.
The combination of these and other hydrating, anti-inflammatory, collagen-inducing ingredients in the product help address multiple aging signs, including wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles.
Dispense one or two pumps onto the palm of your hand and evenly apply the cream under the eyes and on the outer eye corners with your fingertips.
Restorative Eye Treatment addresses common premature aging signs around the eyes, including wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles. Niacinamide and tetrapeptide-30, the product’s key ingredients, brighten the under-eye area and improve skin tone. They work synergistically with green tea and oak leaf tea extracts to reduce the appearance of dark circles.
The formulation also includes the innovative TriHex Technology®, a blend of peptides and active ingredients that promote elastin and collagen production.
Tremella (silver mushroom) provides deep hydration to the under-eye area, and mimosa tree extract and darutoside improve its firmness.
Apply one pump on the under-eye skin and pat lightly. Use it in the morning and evening.
Instant Bright Eye Cream is a comprehensive product that delivers instant and long-term results. It uses ingredients from SkinMedica’s two high-performing products, Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum and HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator, to improve pigmentation issues and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Key ingredients in Instant Bright Eye include phenylethyl resorcinol, a whitening agent which balances melanin to reduce pigmentation, five types of hyaluronic acid to instantly plump the skin, and marine extracts to eliminate darkness and shadows.
7. Interfuse Treatment Cream for Eyes by skinbetter
Interfuse Treatment Cream for Eyes uses patented technology to address all the premature signs of aging around the eyes – wrinkles, puffiness, and eye shadows.
Niacinamide in the product helps improve skin tone, reduce pigmentation issues, and eliminate the appearance of dark circles, while vitamin C brightens the area. It also includes caffeine and yeast derivative to decrease puffiness. A blend of humectants retains moisture and provides deep hydration.
Pat lightly along the delicate under-eye area in the morning and evening.
Another patented eye cream by skinbetter, EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream uses their AlphaRet technology to deeply repair, hydrate, and nourish the sensitive under-eye area. It contains ethyl lactyl retinoate, a novel retinoid that helps reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, and lactic acid to avoid irritation.
Other beneficial ingredients in the product include:
Glycolic acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) – Gently exfoliates the skin’s surface, improving skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation.
Niacinamide – A form of vitamin B3 often used in cosmetic products as a lightning agent; it decreases hyperpigmentation.
C-Tango™ Vitamin C Eye Cream focuses on restoring under-eye skin glow with a potent combination of plant extracts and synthetic ingredients that hydrate and protect from environmental damage.
Power 5C Vitamin Complex is the product’s star ingredient, consisting of five forms of vitamin C to brighten hyperpigmented skin around the eyes and defend it from free radicals. The cream also contains eight peptides, superoxide dismutase, and cucumber extract to strengthen and refresh the skin around the eyes.
Apply one pump of C-Tango on the under-eye area and gently pat. Use it in the morning or evening.
The product costs $64.
10. Clinical Ceramide-Enriched Firming Eye Cream by Paula’s Choice
Often found on beauty magazines’ best eye cream lists, Clinical Ceramide-Enriched Firming Eye Cream is effective at firming and hydrating the under-eye area. It may reduce dark circles caused by dehydration, lack of sleep, and other lifestyle factors.
Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin in the product protect the skin barrier and help soften the delicate area around the eyes. The cream’s key active ingredients, vitamin C and retinol, act on various aging concerns ad help illuminate the skin.
Use it in the morning and evening after cleansing the under-eye area. Because it contains retinol which increases the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, make sure to apply sunscreen after morning use.
The product costs $49.
11. Rapid Wrinkle Repair by Neutrogena
Endorsed by celebrities like Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Garner, Rapid Wrinkle Repair is a budget-friendly option for people concerned about premature aging signs. Its star ingredient is retinol, which addresses wrinkles and dark shadows. The cream also contains hyaluronic acid to provide moisture, softness, and a more youthful complexion.
Apply a tiny amount on cleansed skin and pat until absorbed. Use once or twice daily. If used in the morning, cover the area with sunscreen because retinol increases the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays.
The product costs $31.49.
12. Eye Repair Cream by CeraVe
CeraVe is known for budget products with potent hydrating ingredients. Eye Repair Cream is a great choice for younger people because it has a simple, light formula and may not deliver results for users with prominent under-eye shadows. It can help people with dark circles due to dehydration because of hyaluronic acid and ceramides that deeply moisturize the skin.
The cream’s key ingredient, niacinamide, helps fade hyperpigmentation, reducing under-eye darkness, and a marine and botanical complex brightens the entire eye area.
The cream is fragrance-free and suitable for all skin types.
Apply small dots around the eyes and tap until the cream is fully absorbed. Use in the morning and evening for all-day hydration.
The product costs $13.49.
13. Banana Bright+ Vitamin C Eye Crème by Ole Henriksen
Banana Bright+ Vitamin C Eye Cream is formulated with gold complex ascorbic acid, the purest form of vitamin C, to effectively fade dark spots and lighten the shadows around the eyes. The product also has collagen, providing more skin elasticity, and a banana powder pigment, giving the cream a natural yellowish, color-correcting tint.
The cream’s potent brightening agents help improve dark circles gradually but provide instant results thanks to the concealer-like pigment that smoothly blends into the skin.
Apply in the morning and evening after cleansing the skin.
The product costs $44.
14. Pigmentclar Eye Cream by La Roche-Posay
Pigmentclar Eye Cream is a gentle, dermatologist-tested formula for sensitive skin that specifically targets dark circles. The formula contains:
Caffeine
Glycerin
Niacinamide
Phenylethyl resorcinol
It also includes iron oxides and titanium dioxide that provide a visible tint and protect the skin from UV rays.
Place a pea-sized amount into the cooling metal applicator that comes with the product. Apply the cream below and above the eye using the applicator. Pat the area lightly until the cream is absorbed.
The product costs $44.99.
15. Eye Cream by Dr. Barbara Sturm
Many movie stars rave about Dr. Barbara Sturm’s high-end skincare products that promise impressive results. Eye Cream is a rich hydrating cream that reduces dark shadows, puffiness, and bags under the eyes. Key ingredients include purslane, golden root, sugar beet, and yeast to reduce puffiness, and omega lipids help retain moisture to rejuvenate the skin. The combined effect of this clean, minimalist formula improves hyperpigmentation.
Use in the morning after cleansing the skin. Gently pat around the eyes.
The 5 ml container costs $55. The 15 ml container costs $145.
16. Eye Duty Niacinamide Brightening Eye Cream by First Aid Beauty
Eye Duty Niacinamide Brightening Eye Cream is another “two-in-one” solution to dark circles that contains ingredients to provide long-term improvement in skin tone and a light tint to instantly illuminate the under-eye area.
Active ingredients include:
Gigartina Stellata - Algae extract that hydrates and plumps the skin.
Apply around the eyes after cleansing. Use once or twice daily.
The product costs $36.
17. Potent-C Power Eye Cream by Peter Thomas Roth
Potent-C Power Eye Cream is a powerful, concentrated blend of brightening agents which deliver fast results. The cream contains THD ascorbate, an ultra-stable form of vitamin C that is 50 times more potent than L-ascorbic acid. The formula also includes vitamin E and ferulic acid, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and Phyco’derm®, a complex of seaweed extracts that minimize dark circles, puffiness, and bags under the eyes.
Place a few dots of the cream along the under-eye area and lightly pat, moving outward from the inner corners to smooth the cream into the skin. Use in the morning and evening.
The product costs $68.
18. Hydro Boost Eye Gel-Cream by Neutrogena
Hydro Boost is a simple, budget-friendly formula that deeply hydrates the skin, potentially helping with dark circles. Its main ingredient, hyaluronic acid, smooths and plumps the under-eye area to deliver a brighter look.
Apply in the morning and at bedtime on cleansed skin. Pat lightly around the eyes until the cream is absorbed.
The product costs $22.99.
Bonus Product: Instant Bright Eye Mask by SkinMedica
Instant Bright Eye Mask is not an eye cream, but people with dark circles experience impressive results when using it with SkinMedica’s Instant Bright Eye Cream (number 6 on our list).
The mask is suitable for all skin types and contains cooling gel patches that instantly refresh and hydrate the under-eye area, reducing puffiness and dark circles.
The patches are infused with potent botanical ingredients, including antioxidant golden root extract, hydrating baker’s yeast, and golden herb extract that supports skin rejuvenation.
Apply the mask under the eyes one to three times per week.
How to Choose the Best Eye Cream for Dark Circles?
Choosing the best eye cream for dark circles is mainly a trial-and-error process. People have different experiences with skincare products. To start testing eye creams, consider these questions first.
Is it dermatologist-tested and approved by medical professionals?
How much are you willing to spend on eye cream?
Does it have a “clean” formula without irritating ingredients like parabens and fragrances?
Does it have brightening agents like niacinamide, vitamin C, retinol, glycolic acid?
Read skincare experts’ recommendations for the best eye creams for dark circles and consult user reviews and ratings online.
Conclusion
Dark circles are unflattering and can make you look tired, older than your age, or ill. Luckily, many eye creams target this issue and can help reduce the appearance of shadows. Make sure to combine topical solutions with healthier lifestyle habits to brighten and rejuvenate your under-eye area.
The Best Eye Creams for Sensitive Skin
The skin around the eyes and on the eyelids is thinner than in other areas, making it more susceptible to environmental damage and prone to irritation by harsh ingredients in skincare products.
Even people with dry or oily skin can have sensitive skin around the eyes. To avoid redness, eye watering, puffiness, and other signs of irritation, use products that are designed and tested for use in this delicate area.
To help you choose, we researched the best eye creams for sensitive skin and made a list of 18 of the best products according to skin experts and users.
18 Best Eye Creams for Sensitive Skin
Read carefully to determine which eye cream is suitable for you because some of these products address aging signs (e.g., lines and wrinkles), some focus on dark circles, and some provide an ultra-rich hydrating experience. The first eight products on the list are endorsed by the Vibrant Skin Bar skin experts because they are infused with medical-grade ingredients and approved by dermatologists.
How to Apply Eye Cream
All eye creams should be applied in a thin layer under the eyes and on the outer eye corners. Pat the cream lightly, rather than smear, moving outward from the inner eye corners. Use it in the morning and evening for the best results.
1. Youth Eye Complex by iS Clinical
iS Clinical Youth Eye Complex is a gentle, but rich formula suitable for all skin types. It includes hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture from the environment and provides the necessary hydration.
Copper tripeptide growth factor rebuilds the skin’s protective barrier, strengthening the under-eye area, and pseudoalteromonas ferment extract stimulates elastin and collagen production, additionally firming the skin. The cream also contains acetyl octapeptide-3, which helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Instant Effect Gel EYE is free of allergens and irritating ingredients such as gluten, coconut, lanolin, paraben, dye, and preservatives. It contains soothing botanical extracts and algae blend to reduce puffiness, green coffee to enhance the skin’s ability to fight free radicals, and sodium hyaluronate for a powerful hydrating effect.
The cream helps reduce puffiness and dark circles and refreshes the under-eye area.
Restorative Eye Treatment is a potent formula targeting the main concerns related to premature aging: wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness. Niacinamide, green tea, and oak leaf tea extracts help improve skin tone and eye shadows, while tetrapeptide-30 provides powerful anti-aging effects.
The innovative TriHex Technology® in the cream promotes elastin and collagen production, while tremella (silver mushroom) deeply hydrates the under-eye area.
Instant Bright Eye Cream targets multiple premature aging signs and is formulated for all skin types. Its active ingredients include phenylethyl resorcinol, which helps reduce pigmentation, a potent hyaluronic acid blend to deeply hydrate and instantly plump the skin, and marine extracts to eliminate dark circles.
Note: Read our article, and find out how microneedling under eyes can help you get rid of dark circles.
EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream contains a novel retinoid, ethyl lactyl retinoate, to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The cream also includes niacinamide and glycolic acid to decrease hyperpigmentation, and many moisturizing agents to provide deep hydration – glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and squalene.
As all creams containing retinoids, it increases the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, so it’s intended only for use at night. The cream is suitable for all skin types.
6. Interfuse Treatment Cream for Eyes by skinbetter
Interfuse Treatment Cream for Eyes is a comprehensive formula that nourishes the skin while improving the most common premature aging signs – crow’s feet, under-eye puffiness, and dark circles.
The key active ingredients in the product are vitamin C, which brightens and protects the under-eye area, caffeine and yeast derivative, which decrease puffiness, and a mix of moisturizing agents – glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and arginine. Jojoba esters in the product have soothing properties.
TNS Eye Repair uses SkinMedica’s advanced TNS Complex formula to reduce the appearance of aging signs. The formula is infused with growth hormones and proteins to strengthen the delicate under-eye skin, antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E) to protect the skin from free radicals, and retinyl palmitate (a form of retinol) to help eliminate wrinkles.
Another TNS Complex-powered formula by SkinMedica, TNS Illuminating Eye Cream reduces dark circles, improves skin texture, and deeply hydrates the skin. Active ingredients include growth factors, antioxidants, peptides, panthenol, sodium hyaluronate, and glycerin.
It has a rich, creamy consistency that deeply nourishes the under-eye area.
CeraVe Eye Repair Cream is a budget-friendly drugstore cream that uses only a few ingredients in a potent combination that provides hydration throughout the day. It is infused with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, and a marine and botanical complex. The cream is fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin.
The product costs $13.49.
10. Retinol Correction Line Smoothing Eye Cream by RoC
RoC’s line-smoothing eye cream has a gentle formula suitable for sensitive skin. Its star ingredient is wrinkle-reducing retinol, so some doctors recommend spot testing before applying the cream on the whole under-eye area.
Other active ingredients include panthenol, a form of vitamin B with calming and hydrating properties, and zinc and copper, minerals that soothe sensitive skin and help improve fine lines, puffiness, and tone. Zinc also helps reduce all types of acne.
The product costs $28.
11. Hydro Boost Eye Gel-Cream by Neutrogena
Hydro Boost Eye Gel-Cream is a minimalist, budget-friendly, hydrating eye cream. Its key ingredients, hyaluronic acid and glycerin, help the skin retain moisture and prevents dryness and irritation. The gel-cream formula is absorbed quickly, like a gel, but provides the long-lasting hydration of a moisturizing cream.
The product costs $22.99.
12. Hydrating Eye Cream with Hyaluronic Acid by First Aid Beauty
Hydrating Eye Cream is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, because of its soothing and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol, and cucumber extract. The antioxidant properties of caffeine and colloidal oatmeal in the formula ward off free radicals. Licorice root extract brightens the skin, helping to improve pigmentation and reduce dark circles.
The cream has a rich consistency and absorbs quickly.
The product costs $30.
13. Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado by Kiehl's
Skin experts often recommend Creamy Eye Treatment to people with very dry skin and increased sensitivity around eyes. It has amazing hydrating and soothing capabilities thanks to emollient ingredients such as avocado oil, shea butter, and tridecyl stearate.
The cream is fast-absorbing and lends a soft, supple feel to the skin.
14.Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Boost 360° Eye Cream by Skinfix
Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Boost 360° Eye Cream brightens and tightens the skin, reducing puffiness, and decreasing fine lines and wrinkles.
The cream’s star ingredients include hydrating triple-lipid complex, a blend of ingredients that restore the skin’s ceramide and fatty acid levels, helping to strengthen and plump the under-eye area. It also contains a seaweed hyaluronate blend, which provides intense hydration, and a fermented prebiotic yeast, which helps reduce dark circles.
The cream is light and soothing, and suitable for all skin types.
The manufacturer claims Hypoallergenic CBD Sensitive Skin Therapy is a gentle cream with potent moisturizing and nourishing ingredients suitable for the sensitive skin around the eyes.
The cream is infused with 99% pure CBD (cannabidiol), a natural substance found in the hemp plant, which calms and revitalizes stressed and problematic skin. It also contains bisabolol (a compound found in chamomile extract) to brighten and soothe the skin, and marigold extract, to provide intense hydration and calming effects.
The product costs $72.
16. Eye Cream for Sensitive Skin by Burt’s Bees
Eye Cream for Sensitive Skin appeals to users who prefer clean, earth-sourced ingredients in their skincare products. The cream’s key ingredients include olive oil, shea butter (emollients), cotton flower extract, and glycerin (humectants), which help depuff and hydrate the skin.
Lactic acid in the product works as a gentle exfoliant to brighten and firm the skin, while aloe vera soothes and regenerates the delicate under-eye area.
The product costs $14.99.
17. Toleriane Dermallergo Eye Cream by La Roche-Posay
Toleriane Dermallergo Eye Cream is tested on allergy-prone skin and designed to reduce irritation in the under-eye area, making it suitable for all skin types.
The product is rich with hydrating ingredients, including glycerin, shea butter, and squalene. Niacinamide improves the natural protective moisture barrier around the eyes, and acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester helps decrease irritation by signaling to the skin cells to relax.
The product costs 26.99.
18. Soothing Eye Contour Cream by Avène
Suitable for all skin types, Soothing Eye Contour Cream uses carefully chosen ingredients that calm irritated or dry skin and reduce puffiness in the under-eye area.
Avène thermal spring water provides natural anti-irritant properties, bisabolol soothes inflamed and tight skin, and glycerin and sodium hyaluronate help retain the skin’s moisture all day.
The product costs $29.
Which Eye Cream for Sensitive Skin Should You Choose?
Skin around the eyes is delicate and often requires special care.
The following general guidelines for choosing the best eye cream can help in your search for a suitable product.
Look for eye creams with a clean formula and few ingredients.
Choose eye creams with humectants that help attract moisture, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol, urea, etc.
Choose eye creams with emollients that help retain moisture, such as shea butter, squalene, ceramides, lanolin.
Look for soothing plant ingredients such as aloe vera, green tea, cucumber, seaweed.
Spot test the product first if it includes potent anti-aging ingredients, such as retinol and vitamin C.
Opt for soft, lightweight products.
Make sure the cream is free of irritating ingredients (e.g., synthetic fragrances, parabens, alcohol, preservatives).
Conclusion
People often experience sensitivity around the eyes due to various factors, including harsh weather, lack of sleep, and irritating skincare products. Quality eye creams for sensitive skin can help resolve these issues and revitalize the area around the eyes.
We hope our list of recommendations helps you find a suitable product that will make the skin around your eyes feel soft and hydrated.
Does Nutrafol Work?
Hair loss is a widespread problem that can happen at any point in life and causes serious mental distress. Multiple factors cause hair loss and thinning, including genetics, medical issues, stress, hormonal changes, aging, poor nutrition, and overuse of hair products.
Fortunately, there are treatments that help patients slow down hair loss or regrow new hair. They range from shampoos and topical scalp products to supplements and prescription drugs. One such product is Nutrafol, a popular dietary supplement that many celebrities praise for its effectiveness.
This article explains how Nutrafol works and whether it helps improve hair growth.
What Is Nutrafol?
Nutrafol is an over-the-counter supplement for hair loss. The product contains all-natural, medical-grade ingredients clinically proven to improve hair strength, thickness, and growth rate.
The Nutrafol product line includes four formulations. Each contains slightly different ingredients, which directly address the different causes of hair loss.
Who Is Nutrafol for?
Nutrafol is designed for men and women experiencing mild to moderate hair loss or thinning caused by aging, stress, and genetics. It comes in four variants: for men, women, postpartum women, and perimenopausal or postmenopausal women.
Nutrafol is not suitable for pregnant women and patients who experience hair loss due to a disease or cancer treatment. Also, patients who use anticoagulants or blood-thinning medications may not react well to Nutrafol.
How Does Nutrafol Work?
Nutrafol is designed to treat six underlying causes of hair loss, which also affect overall health. Most people experience hair shedding, thinning, or breakage due to a combination of these six factors, and Nutrafol’s formulas address them in the following ways.
1. Hormonal Hair Loss
About 10% of testosterone in men and women converts daily to the androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone is primarily produced in peripheral tissues, including the scalp. Excessive DHT activity due to genetics, aging, environmental toxins, and lifestyle factors causes hair follicles to gradually shrink and close, preventing hair growth.
Since men have more testosterone, they are more susceptible to baldness due to DHT than women. Women typically suffer from DHT-related hair loss during pregnancy and menopause.
Nutrafol targets this specific cause with ingredients such as saw palmetto, which inhibits DHT receptors, and maca. Only the product for menopausal women contains maca, which is effective at balancing female hormones during this period.
2. Hair Loss Due to Stress
Stress increases the production of cortisol. This hormone causes hair follicles to transition from the growth phase to the rest phase, during which hairs don’t grow. Increased cortisol levels may also disrupt other hormones and cause nutritional deficiencies, perpetuating hair loss.
Nutrafol is the only hair loss product that uses Sensoril® Ashwagandha, a potent herbal blend proven to balance cortisol levels, manage and reduce stress, improve sleep, and provide other health benefits.
3. Hair Loss Caused by Lifestyle Factors
Smoking, UV radiation, chemicals from styling products, lack of sleep, and other lifestyle factors cause hair thinning and baldness. Many of these factors increase oxidative stress and deplete our antioxidant stores, disrupting the hair growth cycle.
Tocotrienol Complex in Nutrafol is a concentrated form of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that reduces environmental stress and improves hair health. The product for menopausal women also includes Astaxanthin, an antioxidant found in algae, which neutralizes free radicals and supports cell health and the immune system.
Note: PRP for hair loss is an innovative, natural solution for men and women. Learn how it works!
4. Hair Loss Due to Nutritional Deficiencies
Keratin is the main component of hair, giving it structure, strength, and shine. Our bodies naturally produce this protein, but a diet lacking essential nutrients can decrease its production, resulting in weak, brittle, and thinning hair. Low nutrient absorption, lack of exercise, stress, and other lifestyle factors can also lower keratin levels.
Marine collagen peptides in Nutrafol provide the right combination of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to improve keratin production, build stronger hair fibers, and support healthy hair growth.
5. Metabolism-Related Hair Loss
Metabolism is the process of converting food into energy in cells. The body needs cellular energy for all life processes, including healthy hair growth. People often experience pattern baldness or thinning hair when factors such as inflammation, a high glycemic diet, hormone imbalances, or thyroid issues disrupt metabolic processes.
Nutrafol addresses metabolism-related hair issues with two ingredients: curcumin, the anti-inflammatory compound found in turmeric, and organic kelp, a seaweed rich in a variety of minerals that support a healthy metabolism.
6. Aging-Related Hair Loss
Collagen and elastin are key hair-building proteins. They help anchor hair follicles to the scalp, hydrate the skin, and promote hair growth. As levels decline with age, hair becomes thinner, weaker, brittle, and grows more slowly or starts shedding.
Nutrafol’s marine collagen peptides increase collagen and elastin stores in the body, delivering moisture to the scalp and building stronger hair. The product also includes vitamin D, which reduces hair damage and stimulates hair growth.
Other Nutrafol Ingredients That Stimulate Hair Growth
All four Nutrafol products include other health-supporting botanicals and vitamins. These help create a healthy environment for hair growth.
Vitamin A - Helps cell growth and repair.
Vitamin C - A potent antioxidant.
Zinc – Promotes hair follicle recovery.
Biotin (B7) – Promotes keratin production and accelerates hair growth.
Selenium - Supports thyroid function and helps promote hair growth.
Resveratrol - Helps protect hair follicles from environmental damage.
Hyaluronic acid – A potent hydrating agent which helps hair retain moisture, volume, and shine.
Users can also combine Nutrafol supplements with the brand’s serums and boosters designed for specific hair loss causes.
What Are the Side Effects of Nutrafol?
The company behind Nutrafol, Nutraceutical Wellness Inc., claims no adverse effects were reported during clinical trials. However, they note a biotin overdose may cause certain side effects, including:
Nausea
Cramping
Diarrhea
Skin rashes
Lower vitamin C and B6
High blood sugar
Slower insulin release
Some researchers warn of the potential negative effects (e.g., hair loss) of high doses or extended use of the following Nutrafol ingredients:
Vitamin E
Vitamin A
Saw palmetto
Selenium
The company claims Nutrafol products may bring the following additional benefits:
More energy
Improved sleep
Improved gut health
Reduced stress
Cleaner skin
Stronger nails
Reviews: Does Nutrafol Really Work?
Most commercial products for hair loss are not clinically evaluated. This sets Nutrafol apart from the competition and wins dermatologists’ approval.
Many doctors consider Nutrafol a high-quality supplement, trusting its science-backed formulation. The medical staff at Vibrant Skin Bar recommends it as a clinically effective, drug-free nutraceutical with a high success rate.
Anecdotal user experience also confirms the beneficial effects of this supplement. Satisfied users typically see results within two months but acknowledge that the change requires time and patience.
Pros and Cons of Nutrafol
The following list sums up the main advantages and disadvantages of Nutrafol products, helping you determine if they are suitable for your hair concern.
Yes (for finasteride pills), no for other products
Clinically proven treatments for hair loss and thinning.
Conclusion
Nutrafol addresses the hereditary, hormonal, and environmental causes of receding hair. Its unique blend of botanicals and nutrients appeals to patients with mild to moderate hair loss, helping to repair damaged hair and set the environment for healthy hair growth.
Many patients find their hair is fuller, shinier, and more voluminous after using Nutrafol. Join them in their positive experience and order the product at Vibrant Skin Bar today!
The 18 Best iS Clinical Products for a Healthy, Glowing Skin
The market is saturated with skincare products, making it challenging to find cleansers, serums, and creams that do what they claim. One thing that can help in the evaluation process is a recommendation from skin experts.
iS Clinical is a medical-grade cosmetic brand that has repeatedly received praise from dermatologists and cosmetics professionals. Our team at Vibrant Skin Bar has tested many of their products and confirms they deliver outstanding results.
The following is a list of 18 iS Clinical products to put on your radar, with explanations how the ingredients work to improve specific skin conditions.
18 iS Clinical Products to Try
1. Active Serum
Active Serum is the brand’s flagship product, favored by many celebrities. Users swear by it because the improvement in skin tone and texture can be seen after only a few applications.
The key ingredients include:
Arbutin - a molecule with a brightening effect; helps treat hyperpigmentation.
White willow bark extract - has anti-inflammatory, soothing properties and minimizes redness.
Sugar cane extract - a powerful humectant and exfoliant; helps to moisturize and gently renew the skin.
Bilberry extract - additionally moisturizes and exfoliates the skin.
This highly concentrated botanical blend effectively minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, blemishes, and scars and provides long-lasting results.
Apply it in a thin layer on clean skin, including the neck.
Brightening Complex is a rich blend of pharmaceutical-grade botanicals that act on all mechanisms contributing to a tired, uneven complexion. It gently exfoliates, hydrates, and protects the skin.
Its active ingredients, arbutin, licorice root, and vitamin C, provide a potent brightening effect, while superstar humectants, glycerin, squalene, hyaluronic acid, and Imperata Cylindrica root extract provide deep hydration.
The result is a smoother, clearer skin tone and a plumper, rejuvenated complexion.
Apply it thinly on a clean face and neck in the morning and evening.
Note: Find out what other products and treatments can help rejuvenate skin.
3. Brightening Serum
This concentrated lightening formula improves pigmentation issues, including melasma, discoloration, and blemishes.
Brightening Serum’s key brightening ingredients include arbutin and Norwegian kelp extract, while white willow bark, sugar cane, and bilberry extracts provide deep hydration, gentle exfoliation, and soothe the skin.
Apply a small amount on the face and neck or only on hyperpigmented areas.
Cleansing Complex is a lightweight, soothing product formulated to thoroughly cleanse the skin’s surface and pores without stripping the skin of natural oils.
The product’s active ingredients, chamomile flower extract and Centella asiatica, have potent antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from environmental factors and minimizing premature aging signs. They also nourish the skin and have a calming effect, which helps prevent potential irritation and redness from the resurfacing effects of sugar cane and white willow bark extracts.
Apply a thin layer on damp skin on the face and neck twice daily, massage gently, and rinse.
Copper Firming Mist is a handy moisturizing spray you can carry in your purse and use whenever your skin needs refreshing (in airplanes, AC spaces, dry or hot areas, etc.).
It is infused with botanical antioxidants, such as resveratrol, which support the skin’s protective barrier and noticeably firm it. The added benefit of the product’s firming properties is that they help keep makeup in place all day.
Note: Wondering what resveratrol does for you? Check out our guide on why and how to use resveratrol for skin care.
Copper PCA regulates sebum and minimizes aging signs.
Spray the product on the face and neck whenever your skin feels tight and dehydrated.
Another potent brightening serum by iS Clinical, GeneXC is clinically proven to provide multi-level protection and nourishment to the skin.
The product is infused with botanically sourced enzymes, vitamin C, and other antioxidants and fruit acids, supporting collagen and elastin production and helping to maintain the skin’s glow and suppleness.
The product’s star ingredients include:
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) - an antioxidant that supports healthy skin and minimizes the signs of photodamage.
L-ascorbic acid - a form of vitamin C that soothes the skin and lessens the signs of photodamage.
Kakadu plum extract - a potent antioxidant with brightening effects that helps diminish redness and provides a more even skin tone.
Green tea - an antioxidant with powerful UV-protective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties.
The serum helps diminish fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes, rosacea, acne, and other imperfections while keeping the skin hydrated and healthy.
Apply a few drops and pat evenly over dry, clean skin on the face and neck. Use it once or twice a day.
HydraCool Serum is a refreshing serum infused with potent antioxidants and rich botanicals, providing intense hydration and anti-aging protection.
Vitamin B5 in the product supports a healthy complexion, mushroom extract brightens the skin, minimizing spots and blemishes, and hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates it. The serum’s soothing qualities make it an excellent remedy for sunburned skin.
Apply a thin layer on clean skin in the morning and evening.
Lip duo is a package of two products for the lips, Lip Polish and Youth Lip Elixir.
Lip Polish is a gentle lip scrub infused with superior antioxidants and hydrating botanicals that help treat and prevent dry lips.
Youth Lip Elixir intensely hydrates the lips, giving them a softer and plumper appearance.
Lip Duo’s key ingredients include:
Sucrose - a natural exfoliator that gently removes impurities from the surface and balances the lips’ natural oils.
Vitamin C - protects the lips from UV radiation and environmental factors.
Vitamin E - provides additional protection against signs of photoaging.
Hyaluronic acid - intensely hydrates, helping to smooth and plump the lips.
Shea and cocoa butter - provides more hydration and protection against environmental pollutants.
Apply Lip Polish in a thin layer on damp lips and massage them using circular motions. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Use the product two or three times a week. Use Lip Elixir as a lip balm whenever you feel your lips are dry.
Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ is designed for all skin types and age groups, but it is especially beneficial for people with aging and compromised skin. The formulation includes a combination of soothing bioflavonoids, scientifically advanced L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and retinol to minimize the appearance of premature aging signs.
Key ingredients include:
Olive leaf extract - minimizes blemishes and nurtures the skin.
Retinol (vitamin A) - the most effective anti-aging ingredient; helps repair skin damage and supports healthy skin.
Vitamin E - repairs photodamage and provides hydration.
Reparative Moisture Emulsion uses pharmaceutical-grade botanicals and peptides to deeply moisturize the skin. Antioxidants in the formulation protect the skin from environmental factors and minimize aging signs.
Active ingredients include:
Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
Hyaluronic acid
Beet root extract - provides deep hydration and antioxidant protection.
Copper tripeptide growth factor - helps reduce wrinkles and other aging signs.
Extremozymes® - an innovative combination of enzymes that limit DNA damage from external stressors.
Massage the product into clean skin once or twice daily.
Sheald Recovery Balm is specially formulated for dry, distressed, or post-procedure skin because it dramatically replenishes moisture and soothes irritation and redness.
Oat kernel extract in the product provides antioxidant protection, while ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin deeply hydrate the skin.
Use it twice a day or whenever needed on open wounds and scars.
Super Serum Advance+ is a high-performing, clinically proven anti-aging product. It uses a powerful combination of a 15% concentration of L-ascorbic acid and copper tripeptide growth factor to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin, raised acne scars, and even stretch marks.
Key ingredients include:
L-ascorbic acid
Copper tripeptide growth factor
Centella asiatica
Arbutin and mushroom extract
Hyaluronic acid
Apply 3-5 drops and smooth evenly over clean face and neck. Use it in the morning and optionally in the evening.
This anti-aging powerhouse is another iS Clinical best-seller. Youth Intensive Cream combines luxurious moisturizing, antioxidant, and resurfacing ingredients to firm, plump, and rejuvenate. The cream is fast-acting and visibly transforms the skin.
The product’s active ingredients include:
Vitamin C
Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
Hyaluronic acid
Copper tripeptide growth factor
Sugar cane extract
White willow bark extract
Retinyl palmitate
Apply a thin layer to clean skin on the face and neck in the morning and evening.
Warming Honey Cleanser is a rich blend of 40% raw honey and 7% soothing botanicals. It gently exfoliates the skin and deeply cleanses the pores thanks to papaya enzymes and Japanese green tea, providing rich hydration, antioxidant protection, and nourishment. The added benefit is a pleasant, warming sensation during product use.
The cleanser also regulates problematic areas, such as large pores, and protects the skin’s natural oil barrier.
Massage the cleanser gently using circular motions. Leave on for 3-5 minutes and rinse. Use it 1-3 times a week.
Though all creams and serums are applied on the neck, Neckperfect Complex is specially designed for this often neglected and fast-aging area. The cream’s potent anti-aging, hydrating ingredients improve the neck’s firmness, visibly reduce wrinkles, and improve skin tone.
Key ingredients include:
Hyaluronic acid
Bilberry extract
Sweet almond extract
Willow bark extract
Sugar maple extract
Vitamin B5
Green tea
Salicylic acid
Apply a thin layer evenly to clean skin on the neck and décolletage. Use it in the morning and evening.
Neckperfect Complex (1.7 oz) costs $105.
17. Extreme Protect SPF 30
Sunscreen is the most important skincare product, according to skin experts. After cleansing and nourishing the skin, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent further damage from UV rays and environmental factors.
iS Clinical’s Extreme Protect SPF 30 minimizes DNA damage from UV radiation and contains soothing ingredients that reduce redness. Zinc oxide and octinoxate in the product offer physical and chemical protection from UVA and UVB rays, while aloe vera provides rich anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, helping to regenerate the skin.
Apply it generously 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours.
Aging signs are the most apparent where the skin is most exposed – on the face, neck, and hands. However, the body also loses collagen and elastin, resulting in wrinkled, dehydrated, and sagging skin, which needs nourishment and hydration.
iS Clinical uses the same advanced, scientifically based approach for body skincare products, and their Youth Body Serum delivers exceptional rejuvenating results.
It is a lightweight serum mist infused with hyaluronic acid, watermelon extracts, blue-micro algae, licorice root, vitamin B5, and extremozymes®. This potent mix of ingredients intensely hydrates, softens, and smooths the skin.
Spray on the body as desired. It is ideal for use after sun exposure.
Youth Body Serum (6.7 oz) costs $120.
Conclusion
Relying on superior ingredients and hard science for their formulations, iS Clinical products have gained recognition among medical cosmetic professionals and consumers because they consistently deliver stellar results.
The Vibrant Skin Bar team invites you to try our recommendations and experience the amazing rejuvenating effects of iS Clinical products.
Melasma is a harmless skin condition that is caused by an overproduction of skin pigment. It is manifested by dark spots usually on the face, but it can also affect the neck, arms, and back.
Treating melasma is a gradual process with no guarantees. It is best to consult a skin professional to determine the cause of your skin concern and maximize the prescribed treatment’s results.
This article explains how to recognize melasma and which products and treatments help improve skin tone.
How Is Melasma Diagnosed?
Dermatologists visually examine the patient’s skin and, if needed, use specialized tools and procedures such as a Wood’s lamp and biopsy to determine whether the patient suffers from melasma or some other skin disorder.
Doctors ask questions about the patient’s lifestyle habits and family history to discover the cause of melasma and prescribe an adequate treatment. The two main causes of melasma are UV radiation and hormonal changes (usually during pregnancy).
The cause of melasma and pigment depth determine the treatment’s effectiveness.
Best Melasma Treatments and Products
Melasma can last for months, years, or quickly go away on its own. It is often triggered by pregnancy or hormonal medication and disappears after the root cause is gone.
The following products and treatments effectively treat melasma, especially in the case of epidermal melasma, which is manifested by higher concentrations of melanin in the superficial skin layers.
Skincare Products
If you have melasma, it’s important to avoid skincare products with ingredients that can worsen the pigmentation issues. Use only products that are safe for melasma.
The following ingredients help with pigmentation issues:
Vitamin C – An effective tyrosinase inhibitor. Simply put, it inhibits the enzyme that helps make melanin. Vitamin C is often used in skincare products as a skin brightening agent.
Retinol and Retin-A – Two forms of vitamin A that stimulate cell turnover, help shed damaged skin cells and resurface a smoother, regenerated skin.
Growth factors – Stimulate the skin’s regeneration and healing processes, help brighten the skin and even the skin tone.
Mandelic and glycolic acid – Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) used in chemical peels to exfoliate dead skin cells and regenerate the skin, reducing redness and hyperpigmentation.
Niacinamide – A form of vitamin B3 with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties that help reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin.
We recommend the following products.
ALASTIN Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream
Cleanse and exfoliate your skin daily with this gentle cleanser to remove dead skin cells and surface impurities. The process helps the active ingredients in the products that follow to penetrate deeper into the skin.
iS Clinical Brightening Complex is a powerful formula with vitamin C that improves uneven skin tone and provides deep hydration. It is infused with pharmaceutical-grade botanicals that exfoliate, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin.
Rescue Epidermal Repair Serum has incredible skin repair capabilities thanks to the patented technology that produces Trioxolane. This stable oxygen molecule helps improve pigmentation and texture issues, boost skin’s immunity, and reduce inflammation.
Our bodies react to UV rays by producing more melanin to protect the skin. If you have melasma, exposure to sun rays only aggravates the condition. Use sunscreen products every day, even during cloudy and cold weather.
We recommend products with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which work as physical sun blockers and provide antioxidant protection. Make sure that the sunscreen product you use has an SPF protection of at least 30.
Suntegrity 5 in 1 Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen
Free from skin irritants, the Suntegrity 5 in 1non-greasy formula provides mineral protection against UVA and UVB rays and reduces redness. It’s also infused with powerful hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, jojoba, hyaluronic acid, cucumber, and pomegranate to rejuvenate the skin.
It has a golden light tint that additionally minimizes the appearance of skin blemishes.
Cosmetic Procedures
If skincare products don’t resolve your skin condition, consider undergoing cosmetic treatments commonly used to treat melasma.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy targets the melanin in the skin, heating and destroying excess pigment. Intense pulsed light (IPL) is the best laser option for melasma. Patients usually need several treatments within three to six months to see results.
Chemical peels
Chemical peels involve exfoliating the skin’s top layer to resurface smooth, even skin. Like laser therapy, this treatment usually requires several sessions to fade dark patches of skin.
Dermaplaning involves manual skin exfoliation using a surgical scalpel. Patients with melasma who undergo a dermaplaning session after a chemical peel may experience quicker results because the treatment speeds up cell turnover and enhances the effectiveness of a chemical peel.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion helps stimulate collagen production and regenerate the skin using a device with tiny crystals that scrape away the skin’s top layer. Medical providers who treat melasma typically perform microdermabrasion in combination with lightning serums.
Apart from using cosmetic products and treatments for melasma, avoid products and circumstances that can aggravate the skin condition. Protect yourself from UV radiant and LED light, avoid birth control pills and hormone treatments, and don’t use irritating skincare products.
Medication
Dermatologists usually prescribe creams with hydroquinone, tretinoin, mild corticosteroids, or a combination of these ingredients to treat melasma. Doctors also prescribe creams or pills with tranexamic acid when other forms of medication and treatments fail to produce desired effects.
When Should You See a Doctor
Melasma is a harmless condition, and people usually seek treatments for aesthetic reasons. However, the longer you have it, the longer it may take to remove dark patches. Also, skin cancer sometimes looks like melasma.
If you suspect your pigmentation issues are caused by a medical condition or the products you use don’t show improvement in your complexion, visit your dermatologist for an expert opinion.
Conclusion
Many people experiencing melasma wish to remove dark patches of skin for cosmetic reasons. To set you on the right course, we’ve listed products and treatments for melasma that we found effective.
Contact Vibrant Skin Bar skin experts for more guidance on how to resolve your skin issue.
Vibrant skin requires daily skin care, healthy lifestyle choices, and minimal exposure to environmental pollutants and UV rays. However, despite our best efforts our skin can still appear neglected. When the skin is too oily or too dry, the culprit is usually an imbalance in sebum production.
This article explains the role of sebum, which factors influence its production, and how to maintain optimal sebum levels for a healthy-looking skin complexion.
What Is Sebum?
Sebum is a light yellow, viscous substance on the skin’s surface. It is made of lipids or fat molecules that include natural oils, waxes, squalene, and cholesterol.
What Is the Role of Sebum?
The scientific community has limited understanding of the role of sebum and how different factors affect its secretion rate. They attribute the following functions to sebum:
Skin lubrication and hydration. Sebum’s primary role is to keep the skin hydrated by preventing the evaporation of moisture and electrolytes.
Photoprotection. Squalene in sebum displays natural protection against UV radiation.
Protection against microbes. Sebum’s antimicrobial substances make it the first line of defense against bacterial, viral, and fungal infection.
Antioxidant activity. Sebum helps transport antioxidants such as vitamin E from the blood to the skin’s surface, protecting the body from free radicals.
Wound healing. Scientists believe sebum regulates pathogen activity and participates in wound healing.
Where Is Sebum Produced?
Sebaceous glands produce sebum. They secrete it in the follicle, which stimulates hair growth. As the hair grows to the skin’s surface, it pushes the sebum out.
Sebaceous glands cover almost the entire surface of our bodies and are typically grouped around hair follicles. The face, scalp, and chest contain the highest concentrations of sebaceous glands. The only areas without them are the palms of our hands and the soles of our feet.
What Causes Sebum Production?
Sebum secretion is a natural process that begins at birth. Several factors affect the rate of sebum production, making it unique for each person.
Age
Most people experience substantial sebum production in the first six months after birth. Sebaceous glands slow down their activity until puberty, after which it increases by up to 500%. Increased sebum production in this period is responsible for the appearance of acne because it mixes with dead cells and dirt in the pores, clogging them and causing breakouts.
For most people, sebum production slows down again after the age of 20.
Some studies show that men experience significantly higher amounts of sebum as compared to women in the same age range.
Hormones
A spike in hormonal activity, which naturally occurs around puberty and adolescence, increases the secretion of sebum. The hormone most responsible for increased sebum production is testosterone. People who undergo testosterone replacement therapy may experience increased sebum levels.
As the sex hormones activity slows down with age, the sebum production decreases, often causing dry and itching skin.
Genetics
The size of sebaceous glands and how hormones regulate their activity is largely affected by genetics. People whose relatives have skin issues related to low or high sebum production have higher chances of experiencing the same concerns.
Medical Issues
Some health issues and medications may cause an imbalance in sebum production. They include:
Pituitary and adrenal gland issues.
Ovarian and testicular conditions.
Parkinson’s disease.
Malnutrition and restricted-calorie diets.
Hormone medications, birth control pills, and prescription retinoids.
Lifestyle Factors
Saturated fats, sugars, milk, low water intake, alcohol, and nicotine may cause sebaceous glands to produce too much or too little sebum.
If you suspect your diet or lifestyle choices are negatively affecting your skin, take turns eliminating lifestyle factors on this list to discover what is disrupting your sebum levels.
Note: Learn how to do a full skin detox with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter products.
How to Balance Sebum Production?
An imbalance in sebum production usually causes skin issues. Excessive sebum production is responsible for oily, acne-prone skin, while reduced sebum production leads to dry, itching, and flaky skin.
There are several ways to resolve skin issues related to an imbalance in sebaceous glands’ activity and revert to an optimal sebum level.
Reduce Sebum Production
If you have oily skin and often experience breakouts, try reducing sebum production using these methods:
Use OTC products with salicylic or mandelic acid to minimize breakouts.
Avoid foods that may cause oily skin, such as sugars and saturated fats.
Note: A common misconception is that people with oily and acne-prone skin should not use moisturizers. However, the opposite is often true. Dryness of the skin may cause sebaceous glands to go into overdrive, causing an overproduction of sebum. In that case, using a moisturizer may reduce sebum production.
Include moisturizers with humectants in your skincare routine.
Wash your face, body, and hair with lukewarm instead of hot water.
Drink at least eight cups of water every day.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If none of the above-mentioned practices produce the desired effect, visit your dermatologist.
Also, contact your doctor if you experience:
Persistent breakouts.
Painful cysts and nodes.
Severe skin infections.
Chapped, cracking, or bleeding skin.
Dermatologists treat skin issues related to an imbalance in sebum production with prescription medications, isotretinoin, corticosteroids, hormone therapy, and cosmetic treatments such as laser and chemical peels.
Our bodies produce sebum to keep the skin hydrated and protected from external factors. An imbalance in sebum levels weakens our skin barrier function and exposes our skin to environmental damage and dehydration.
Learn to recognize the symptoms of disrupted sebum production and restore optimal sebum levels to maintain healthy skin.
If you're struggling to recognize what your skin needs and need extra help, Vibrant Skin Bar's skin experts are ready to help via skincare tips and product and treatment recommendations. Contact us today for more information or to book a skin consultation.
People are becoming less interested in temporary beautification and more in clean beauty products that nurture and protect the skin while minimizing imperfections.
That’s where mineral makeup products come into play. It delivers a smooth, radiant complexion while caring for the skin.
This article lists the benefits of mineral makeup and explains why it is often better for your skin than conventional makeup.
Is Mineral Makeup Better for Skin? 7 Benefits
Mineral makeup is made from minerals that are crushed into fine powder. The basic ingredients include zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, mica, and iron oxide, and they are mixed with a pigment to provide different-colored foundations.
The growing popularity of mineral makeup is thanks to its natural ingredients which don’t irritate the skin like traditional makeup. It allows the skin to breathe and provides natural protection against environmental factors.
If you haven’t used mineral makeup before, the following benefits may convince you to give it a try.
1. Mineral Makeup Is Suitable for Sensitive Skin
Mineral makeup typically includes only naturally occurring minerals. The absence of synthetic ingredients, bulking agents, preservatives, and fragrances, which most often cause irritation, makes it ideal for sensitive skin.
Also, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, usually included in mineral makeup, have anti-inflammatory properties. If you are prone to inflammation, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis, mineral makeup is a good alternative to traditional makeup products.
2. Mineral Makeup Is Safe for Acne-Prone Skin
The minerals easily blend in with the skin’s natural oils and sit lightly on the surface, letting the skin breathe. These products don’t contain bulking agents like talc, which clogs the pores, leading to breakouts. That’s why mineral cosmetics are considered non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin.
Mineral makeup products have no ingredients that may improve or prevent breakouts, but they can be used safely without exacerbating the condition.
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide used in many mineral makeup products are FDA-approved sun-blocking ingredients. They block UVA and UVB radiation, protecting the skin from irritation and sunburns.
However, mineral makeup isn’t a replacement for sunscreen because the amount of sun-blocking ingredients in mineral products isn’t sufficient to provide full protection.
Mineral makeup mixes with the skin’s natural oils without seeping into the pores and wrinkles, providing a natural, even-toned look. It withstands different temperatures better than traditional makeup and won’t cause a smeared, melting look in high heat or flaky skin in cold weather.
5. Mineral Makeup Provides a Healthy, Adjustable Coverage
Since it lacks bulking agents, mineral makeup contains more pigment and doesn’t need to be applied as much as traditional makeup. Adjust the amount you apply to provide light, medium, or full coverage without damaging the skin with heavy, pore-clogging layers.
Minerals like mica have a reflective quality that gives the skin a subtle, naturally translucent glow. You can use products with mica to highlight your cheekbones or brighten your under-eye area.
6. Mineral Makeup Is Long Lasting and Has a Long Shelf Life
Mineral makeup is long-lasting because it contains only inorganic ingredients, without moisture and fillers, and can’t develop bacteria. It also stays on the skin for a long time without melting because of its solid mineral formulation. It can stay on the skin all day without reapplying.
7. Mineral Makeup Comes in Different Forms to Satisfy All Users
Innovations in pigmenting have enabled a wider range of mineral makeup products than before. Innovative formulas today include liquid and pressed powder foundations and concealers for easy layering. Consumers can also use mineral eye shadows, blushes, and lipsticks, not just foundations and powders.
Conclusion
Mineral makeup is a welcome alternative to traditional makeup for people interested in maintaining healthy skin. Products with clean mineral ingredients offer many benefits to all skin types, especially sensitive skin.
Consider using mineral makeup to relieve the skin of heavy makeup and give it a healthy natural glow.
Products for Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin produces an excessive reaction to external factors that usually don’t cause irritation. The symptoms include itching, burning, redness, dry skin, and scaling. People with sensitive skin need to be extra careful when choosing products for their skincare routine.
This article lists gentle and nourishing skincare products for sensitive skin, as recommended by the Vibrant Skin Bar team.
6 Products for Sensitive Skin
Experts recommend using cosmetic products in a particular order in the morning and evening to maximize the impact of active skincare ingredients.
A basic daytime skincare routine includes a cleanser, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. The products to use at nighttime are a cleanser, serum, and moisturizer. Optional daily or weekly products include a toner, exfoliator, facial oil, and facial mask.
Note: This ultimate skincare guide provides detailed information on when and how to use cosmetic products.
1. ALASTIN Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream
The cleanser is suitable for sensitive skin because it uses only soothing, toxin-free ingredients that don’t disturb the skin’s natural protective barrier. Linoleic acid removes impurities on the skin’s surface, silver mushroom provides and encourages hydration, while oat protein extract soothes easily irritated skin.
Use it as the first step in your skincare routine in the morning and evening. Wet the skin with warm water, take one pump of the product, gently massage it onto the skin and then rinse thoroughly.
Rescue Epidermal Repair Serum is a potent serum infused with the Trioxolane, morin, Arctalis, and five-flavor berry. Together, these ingredients help repair oxidative damage, reduce aging signs, and maintain adequate moisture levels while calming potential redness and irritation.
Replenish Hydrating Cream combines active ingredients to provide comprehensive skin care. Vitamin E, vitamin C, and green tea leaf extract are powerful antioxidants that defend against environmental pollutants and free radicals, while sodium hyaluronate keeps the skin hydrated and supple. The product also includes bisabolol, a chamomile-derived agent that helps soothe inflamed and irritated skin.
People with sensitive skin are prone to UV damage and should protect their skin with adequate sunscreen. Elta MD UV Clear Sunscreen’s non-irritating formulation is suitable for all skin types. It is specially designed to help manage acne, discoloration, rosacea, and other symptoms of sensitive skin.
Niacinamide reduces inflammation, hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin, and zinc oxide protects against UVA and UVB rays.
If you suffer from dry and damaged skin, incorporate a rich facial oil into your nighttime routine. Osmosis MD Nourish Avocado Facial Oil includes a blend of organic oils that deliver deep hydration and protect the skin from environmental aggressors.
Use it after a serum and before a moisturizer. Apply a small amount and gently massage.
Skin experts recommend face masks to infuse the skin with active ingredients. Sensitive skin can benefit from hydrating, healing masks such as Osmosis MD’s Remedy Healing Balm. Shea butter, hydrogenated castor oil, squalene, and glycerin ensure the skin is deeply hydrated, while a rich blend of flower and leaf extracts and oils alleviates redness and signs of distress.
Regular weekly use reduces the appearance of fine lines and improves skin tone and texture.
Sensitive skin is not a medical issue, but it requires special attention. If you have sensitive skin, always use specially formulated products to minimize exposure to external factors that cause uncomfortable symptoms.
Our recommendations will help you create a safe and effective skincare routine.
Mineral Makeup: Benefits and Product Recommendations
The beauty industry is seeing a rising trend toward more natural cosmetic solutions. People are leaning towards non-invasive treatments and holistic skin care.
Mineral makeup is a new favorite among those interested in makeup products with clean ingredients. It is made from pure crushed minerals and doesn’t contain any chemicals, preservatives, dyes, or waxes that irritate the skin.
The advantage of mineral over conventional makeup is that the minerals bind easily with the skin’s natural oils, allowing the makeup to blend in and provide a natural look. It doesn’t clog pores and has healing properties suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
This article recommends the four best mineral makeup products and explains how their unique formulations help nurture the skin.
Best Mineral Makeup
The following products are designed by Advanced Mineral Makeup, a company that has grabbed the attention of many celebrities. It focuses on using only pure, pharmaceutical-grade ingredients to provide safe and beautiful results.
1. Liquid Foundation
Liquid Foundation is a lightweight product available in seven natural-looking shades, and it can be layered to adjust to your skin tone seamlessly.
Titanium dioxide is a natural sunscreen, while vitamins A and E protect the skin from oxidative damage. The minerals in the product stimulate cell growth and rejuvenation, while their anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties help improve rosacea, acne, and hyperpigmentation.
It lasts all day without fading and requiring touch-ups.
Loose Mineral Powder Foundation is a lightweight, versatile 4-in-1 product. It provides even coverage, acting as a foundation powder, concealer, and sunblock. Vitamins A and E defend the skin against free radicals, while anti-inflammatory minerals soothe irritation, rosacea, acne, and other skin issues.
Pressed Powder’s lightweight texture allows easy application in layers, giving you medium to full coverage. It removes the shine from combination and oily skin, while people with acne, scars, rosacea, and pigmentation issues can use it as a touch-up solution to cover problematic areas.
Titanium dioxide provides UV protection, vitamins A and E defend against free radicals, and mica adds a natural glow to the skin. Other ingredients include aloe vera oil, sweet almond oil, and green tea extract, which all have a calming and hydrating effect.
Perfecting Concealer hides acne, scars, age spots, dark circles, and puffiness without clogging the pores or accentuating wrinkles. Its creamy texture enables easy application and medium to full coverage that lasts all day.
Grapeseed oil and shea butter hydrate the skin, while vitamin E protects it against environmental factors.
To ensure even makeup distribution, use a soft, thick brush specially designed for mineral makeup application. Pro Luxury Flat Top Brush is a great tool for layering mineral pressed powder and liquid foundation products because it allows you to adjust the coverage.
Mineral makeup is a popular beauty trend because it focuses on improving your skin’s overall health, not just your complexion. The four makeup recommendations in this article are all you need for a day out, confident in your glowing, well-nurtured skin.
