How to Get Rid of Dark Spots on Face

The skin is our first defense against harmful elements in the environment. Excessive exposure to pollutants, UV rays, and even hormonal changes cause the skin to develop premature aging signs such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and dark spots.

This article explains why dark spots form, how to treat them, and what we can do to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

Causes of Dark Spots

Dark spots (also known as sunspots or liver spots) are flat patches of darker skin that usually appear when we expose ourselves to UV rays for extended periods. Unlike a tan, these dark patches do not go away.

Note: Dark spots are one of the signs of melasma. Learn in our article what are the best melasma treatments that will make the dark spots go away.

The sun emits UV rays which cause skin damage. A tan is the result of the skin trying to protect itself by producing melanin, a dark pigment. Extended exposure causes an overproduction of melanin, a condition called hyperpigmentation. Because it is the most exposed to the sun, the skin on our face is the most prone to developing dark spots.

Patches of darker skin don’t only appear because of sun exposure. They can also be caused by hormonal changes, acne scars, inflammation, and aging.

How to Get Rid of Dark Spots on Facial Skin

Fortunately, the cosmetics industry offers several solutions for dark spots. The treatments are generally safe for healthy people and solve the problem of dark spots to varying degrees, depending on the severity of the skin concern and the patient’s goals.

Prescription Creams and Serums

Dermatologists prescribe topical creams that contain active ingredients which help lighten dark spots. Depending on the formulation, these products contain the following substances:

Hydroquinone – This substance is only available by prescription. Topicals with hydroquinone should be used with caution and only for a time period because of potentially severe side effects. The Vibrant Skin Bar skin experts do not recommend using products with this ingredient.
Tretinoin – This compound is a derivative of vitamin A. It blocks melanin production, increases cell turnover, and lightens the skin, diminishing dark spots. Products with tretinoin make the skin more sensitive to sun rays, so it is important to apply sunscreen after use.

Only apply these products as instructed by your dermatologist. Discontinue use if you experience skin irritation or other side effects.

OTC Topical Products

Some over-the-counter creams and serums use pharmaceutical-grade botanicals that brighten facial skin and provide an effective solution for dark spots. They are safer than hydroquinone and tretinoin products and are suitable for all skin types.

Laser Treatments

OTC or prescription products can take 6-12 months to lighten dark spots and sometimes a patient needs to try a more invasive cosmetic procedure such as laser therapy and chemical peels to produce the results they desire. Laser treatments break up melanin in the skin, allowing the body to absorb it resulting in lightened skin tone in the affected areas. Laser treatments require several sessions and may cause redness, pain, swelling, scarring, and discoloration.

Note: Read our article to find out how can BBL laser treatment help you get rid of dark spots.

Chemical Peels

Skin experts recommend chemical peels as an effective solution for dark spots. Chemical peels involve the use of substances such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acid to exfoliate the skin’s top layer. Once the surface skin is removed, soft, even-toned skin appears.

Like laser therapy, a patient needs several treatments for the best results. Potential side effects include skin irritation, inflammation, scarring, and discoloration.

Note: Learn whether a chemical peel or laser treatment is better for your skin.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion involves using an abrasive device that removes the skin’s top layer, revealing a more even-toned complexion. It is a gentler procedure than laser and chemical peels and typically requires at least six treatments. For the treatment of dark spots, it is used in conjunction with lightening serums to help exfoliate the surface of the skin for better product penetration.

DIY Home Solutions

Anecdotal evidence suggests some home remedies can improve the appearance of dark spots. Recipes include applying kitchen ingredients on the affected skin, such as lemon juice, aloe vera gel, green tea, apple cider vinegar, milk, etc.

There is little research to confirm the success and safety of these solutions and certain concentrations of these ingredients can cause surface burns and induce hyperpigmentation. We do not recommend using these ingredients at home for skin lightening and it is important to always consult with your doctor before opting for any DIY solution.

How to Prevent Dark Spots on the Face?

The best way to prevent hyperpigmentation issues is to use sunscreen whenever you leave the house. Skin experts recommend sun protection even in the winter and on cloudy days.

Sunscreen products that provide the best protection against UV radiation have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, they protect against both UVA and UVB rays, and are water-resistant.

Conclusion

Most sun-induced hyperpigmentation spots are harmless, but many patients want to remove them for aesthetic reasons. Some topical products and cosmetic treatments successfully fade dark spots, but they require patience.

If you need help treating hyperpigmentation on your face, contact our skilled team at Vibrant Skin Bar to help you choose the right treatment plan. In the meantime, avoid direct sunlight and always use sunscreen!

10 Best Moisturizers for Aging Skin

Maintaining a youthful, vibrant complexion becomes a challenge with age because cell turnover and collagen production slow down. As our skin’s protective barriers weaken, we become more susceptible to environmental pollutants that damage and dehydrate the skin.

Topical skin care is crucial after we turn 30 and start noticing aging signs such as dry skin, wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. Moisturizers effectively tackle these skin concerns thanks to their hydrating, nourishing, and protective properties.

This article explains why hydrating the skin is an essential part of topical skin care and provides a selection of the best moisturizers for aging skin.

What Ingredients to Choose for Aging Skin?

Many skin problems are linked to dehydration, and even oily skin can be dehydrated. Dermatologists agree that moisturizers are essential in topical skin care, especially for aging skin which produces less collagen and hyaluronic acid.

Note: Learn how to transform your skin's health and appearance by incorporating collagen for skin into your lifestyle.

Moisturizers typically include a combination of occlusive and humectant ingredients to boost hydration. Occlusives prevent water loss, while humectants attract moisture from the environment. Manufacturers often add other active ingredients to their cosmetic products to address common skin concerns like wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne.

Moisturizers usually include some of these ingredients:

Glycerin and hyaluronic acid – humectants that attract moisture from the air
Ceramides – lipids that prevent water loss and help form the skin’s natural barrier
Alpha and beta hydroxy acids – exfoliating agents that remove dead skin and stimulate the resurfacing of new, smooth skin
Vitamin C and E – antioxidants that protect the skin from free-radical damage
Peptides – amino acids that stimulate collagen production and help firm the skin
Niacinamide – a form of vitamin B3 that helps treat pigmentation issues and improve skin tone
Retinol – a form of vitamin A often used in night creams for its powerful anti-aging, skin repair properties such as increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production

Note: Find out when is the best time to start using anti-aging products.

10 Best Moisturizers for Aging Skin

Our skin experts at Vibrant Skin Bar have chosen the 10 best moisturizers for aging skin based on the products’ unique formulations and the specific skin concerns they target.

1. iS CLINICAL Reparative Moisture Emulsion

Reparative Moisture Emulsion is a universal moisturizer for all skin types because it contains pharmaceutical-grade botanicals that have a soothing effect on the skin. It is applied before sunscreen in the morning or as the final step in the night skincare routine. The product’s light, silky texture makes it a great primer before makeup because it reduces the appearance of fine lines.

Reparative Moisture Emulsion is great for people who show signs of aging because it contains the following powerful ingredients:

Copper tripeptide growth factors – promote collagen synthesis and help to fill in fine lines and wrinkles.
Sodium hyaluronate and glycerin – provide intense hydration.
Extremozymes® - a patented combination of enzymes that protect from environmental pollutants.
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) – an antioxidant that protects from photodamage.

2. SkinMedica’s Dermal Repair Cream

Dermal Repair Cream by SkinMedica is a smart choice for normal to dry and aging skin. Its thick consistency makes it suitable for a night skincare routine and in cold and dry environments. The cream enhances the skin’s natural barrier and provides effective rehydration.

A high concentration of vitamins C and E in this rich cream helps fight against free radicals, effectively healing and repairing the skin from environmental damage. With regular use, the cream evens tone, maintains hydration, and restores the skin’s youthful glow.

3. Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Face Cream

Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Face Cream is formulated for mature skin with ingredients that target dry skin, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. It is applied at night to provide deep hydration while the skin is in rest mode. The product’s consistency is rich and creamy, but it doesn’t leave any greasy residue. In the morning, the skin is rejuvenated, refreshed, and brightened.

Apart from boosting moisture and reducing water loss, the product increases skin volume thanks to active lipids, peptides, and shea butter.

4. Osmosis MD Enrich

MD Enrich is on many skin experts’ best cosmetic product lists because it provides intense hydration while promoting deep skin repair and nourishment during the night. Its key active ingredients, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter, ensure maximum water absorption and retention.

Pharmaceutical-grade botanicals in the cream like Swertia chirata leaf extract and blueberry fruit extract provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to:

Regenerate cells
Control oil production
Reduce eczema and redness
Improve the appearance of wrinkles

5. Kiehl’s Super Multi-Corrective Cream

A consumer study shows Super Multi-Corrective Cream diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, evens skin tone, and improves texture by visibly firming and smoothing the skin. Its fast-absorbing, lightweight consistency makes it suitable for all skin types and can be used during the day or at night.

The manufacturers combined potent ingredients like vitamin A, Chaga mushroom, and hyaluronic acid to help increase moisture in the skin and reduce visible signs of aging.

Note: Learn which skincare products to use to rejuvenate your skin.

6. Skinbetter Hydration Boosting Cream

Hydration Boosting Cream by Skinbetter is a dual-action cream suitable for all skin types. Its lightweight texture is particularly beneficial for oily skin. It delivers long-lasting hydration thanks to a unique blend of botanical lipids and ceramides that improve the skin’s natural barrier. Niacinamide in the product helps brighten and even skin tone, while the antioxidants squalene and vitamin C protect from environmental damage. It is suitable for use both in the morning and evening.

7. CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

This budget-friendly lotion helps with many conditions, especially dehydrated skin. It gets absorbed quickly, but the ingredients slowly penetrate deeper skin layers to maximize the lotion’s effects and provide longer-lasting hydration. It includes glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides for added hydration, lipids to enhance the natural skin barrier, and niacinamide to soothe irritation and inflammation. This moisturizing lotion is oil-free and fragrance-free and therefore suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

8. TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream

TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream by SkinMedica is an excellent choice for aging, post-procedure, or dehydrated skin. Its patented ceramide formula focuses on restoring the skin’s natural barrier function to enhance texture, while peptides minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

The cream contains the proprietary TNS® complex, a combination of growth factors, cytokines, antioxidants, and matrix proteins. This blend of ingredients helps heal damaged skin and maintain its suppleness and tone.

Satisfied users report the following benefits of using TNS® Ceramide Treatment Cream:

Easy-to-apply, silky texture
Hydrating and creamy
Leaves a dewy glow
Effectively repairs damaged skin

9. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Cream

Another budget-friendly moisturizer, Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Cream combines the two most popular cosmetic ingredients - hyaluronic acid and retinol. They help deliver high-level hydration to the skin while promoting collagen production to visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Users report softer, plumper, and smoother skin after regular use.

10. Epara Moisturizing Face Cream

Moisturizing Face Cream by Epara is a luxurious cream made for darker skin tones. It addresses the most common problems of aging skin – dehydration and discoloration. The product’s blend of gentle botanicals (marula oil, licorice root extract), shea butter, argan oil, niacinamide, and sodium hyaluronate provide numerous benefits:

Brightened tone
Softer skin
Reduced inflammation
Restored skin elasticity
Reduced appearance of wrinkles
Deep hydration and nourishing

Conclusion

Moisturizers are essential skincare products, especially for aging and dry skin. Although they can’t prevent or reverse aging, they can slow it down and make the skin appear smoother and plumper.

Carefully review our choice of best moisturizers for aging skin to find the one that matches your specific skin needs.

What Is Holistic Skin Care?

The state of our skin greatly affects our appearance. Makeup can mask certain features and enhance others, but once we remove our makeup, the skin always shows how well we take care of ourselves.

Skincare products like moisturizers and sunscreens play a decisive role in nurturing the skin, but many cosmetic practitioners also believe we need a more holistic approach to skin care.

This article explains the philosophy behind holistic skin care and why it yields better results than focusing only on topical skin care.

What Is Holistic Skin Care?

Holistic skincare specialists believe our skin’s wellbeing depends on our physical, emotional, and mental state, not only on external factors such as the environment. They view the skin as part of the whole body, not a separate entity.

Researchers have found that many skin issues, such as acne, eczema, seborrhea, loss of collagen, and others occur when we experience stress, lack of sleep, medical problems, etc. Holistic skin care recommends that besides using gentle, natural topical skincare products, we also nurture our skin from the inside.

Note: If you are struggling with eczema and are looking for natural ways to alleviate symptoms and treat the condition, read our guide on holistic eczema treatment methods.

Holistic Skincare Elements

Holistic skincare practitioners consider the patient’s diet, physical condition, stress levels, hormonal imbalances, and other health and lifestyle factors before creating a customized skincare plan. They believe that the skin reflects how we feel, and if we want healthy skin, we need to improve our health internally.

The following are universal tips for a sound mind, healthy body, and radiant skin.

Eat Nourishing Foods

Since ancient times, people have known that diet is one of the pillars of health. A balanced diet consists of foods that fulfill our nutritional needs and are packed with proteins, fibers, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Keeping the digestive system healthy reduces inflammation that can cause acne, rosacea, and other skin issues.

Note: For more lifestyle tips and recommendations on anti-inflammatory products and treatments, check out our guide to anti-inflammatory skin care.

The skin benefits the most from foods rich in water, antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. These ingredients can be found in raw vegetables and fruits, including dark green vegetables, berries, apples, watermelons, cucumbers, grapes, tomatoes, nuts, etc. Healthy fats like avocado and flaxseed can improve the skin’s suppleness and elasticity.

On the other hand, foods that destroy our complexion (and our internal organs) if we consume them in excess are sugar, trans fats, fried foods, soft drinks, and alcohol.

Some people break out in acne when they eat dairy or other foods. The skin is one of the first places where food intolerances can manifest, so holistic skincare practitioners sometimes recommend testing for food allergies.

Drink Plenty of Water

You’ve heard it many times: we are mostly made up of water (up to 60%). We need to maintain optimal hydration levels in our body for the proper functioning of our cells and organs, including the skin. Medical professionals agree that the optimal daily amount of water is between eight and ten glasses. Drinking less can cause dull, dry, sagging, and wrinkly skin.

Exercise

Physical activity is the second pillar of health. Regular exercise reduces stress and stimulates the production of endorphin, the happiness hormone. Lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol also helps reduce skin-related issues such as acne, eczema, and oily skin.

Sweating and improved circulation that come with exercise release toxins, clear the skin, and supply skin cells with oxygen and nutrients, improving our complexion.

Avoid Stress

The stress hormone cortisol can lead to many health issues and skin abnormalities such as inflammation, acne, eczema, seborrhea, and psoriasis. Managing stress is difficult, but it helps to implement relaxing activities such as meditation and yoga, to use herbal remedies and eat healthy foods.

Get Enough Sleep

Healthy night's sleep for holistic skin care

Most of us have seen the effects of sleep deprivation in the form of dark circles and puffiness under our eyes, and dull and sagging skin. However, disrupted sleep patterns also trigger the release of the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to skin inflammation and other more serious issues.

If you have trouble getting at least seven hours of uninterrupted sleep at night, incorporate these activities:

daily exercise
meditation
teas with chamomile, nettle, or other calming herbs
natural supplements that reduce stress and improve sleep (e.g., Ashwaghanda)
relaxing bath before bedtime
no electronic devices at least two hours before bedtime

Carefully Choose Your Skincare Products

Holistic skin care typically means the use of gentle products suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Read product labels to avoid harsh ingredients like parabens, synthetic fragrances, and SLS. Choose cleansers, serums, and moisturizers with natural ingredients (avocado, honey, aloe, etc.) and antioxidants (vitamin C, A, E). These will nourish your skin and protect it from free radicals.

Note: Our ultimate skin care guide will help you create a customized daily skincare routine for your skin type using high-quality skincare products from the Vibrant Skin Bar shop.

Conclusion

Skin protects us from external factors, but it also reflects our inner experiences. If we suffer from health issues due to bad lifestyle habits, our skin will testify to this by becoming dry, sagging, and inflamed.

Holistic skin care promotes living in moderation and caring for our body from the inside out. Beautiful, glowing skin will come as the natural result of our choices.

Feet Skin Care: How to Take Care of Your Feet

We want our feet to look clean and attractive when the summer comes, and we start exposing them in open-toe footwear. This article is a gentle reminder to take care of your feet all year round because proper foot hygiene is a matter of general health, not just aesthetics.

Read on to learn how to take care of your feet regardless of the season.

How to Take Care of Your Feet

Common foot problems include excessive sweating and unpleasant odor, dry and cracked heels, fungal infections, corns, calluses, and bunions. The following advice aims to remind you of proper foot care and teach you new tricks to avoid uncomfortable foot conditions.

Choose the Right Footwear

Wrong footwear is a common cause of foot issues. Here are some things to consider when choosing what you wear on your feet:

Tight, narrow shoes can lead to corns and calluses (thick, painful skin on the toes and heels) and bunions (protrusions of the big toe joint).
Wearing high heels every day may cause pain and irritation, as well as more serious structural changes to the foot.
Long-term use of flip-flops can make your foot arch collapse due to a lack of support.
Wearing dirty shoes and socks can cause unpleasant odor and infections.

Make sure your shoes are the right size, always clean, and comfortable, and that they provide good arch and heel support.

Wear Shoe Inserts if You Have Flat Arches

Made to follow the curve of a healthy foot, shoe inserts provide additional padding and alleviate discomfort in people with flat arches. Using them can feel like a tedious extra step in your dressing routine, but in the long term, they help with the pain and even improve your body posture. You can buy them over the counter or ask your doctor to recommend a particular brand.

Maintain Good Foot Hygiene

Wash your feet every day with lukewarm water and mild soap. Occasionally, you can pamper them with a good soak in a bowl of warm water, to which you add Epsom salt and a few drops of essential oil (we recommend peppermint or lavender).

The treatment softens the skin and cuticles, making it easy to scrub away loose skin. It also helps relieve pain and improve circulation. However, don’t soak your feet too often because it can dry out the skin.

Thoroughly dry the skin between the toes because leftover moisture can lead to fungal infections.

Moisturize and Massage Your Feet

Your feet need pampering as much as the rest of the body. Apply a thick moisturizer in the morning and evening to keep your feet soft and prevent dryness and cracking. Don’t moisturize between the toes to avoid yeast infections.

Regularly Trim Your Nails

Apart from looking unkempt, overgrown nails harbor dirt and can cause discomfort. Regularly trim them with a nail clipper and buff the corners with a file to ensure they don’t cut into your flesh.

Protect Your Feet from UV Rays

Always apply sunscreen on your feet when they are exposed to the sun. The skin on your feet is sensitive to UV rays and can burn, crack, and age faster due to sun damage. Apply sunscreen on your toenails as well to protect them from the sun and hot sand.

Note: Our article will help you choose a sunscreen that’s just right for you. For broad-spectrum protection, what we always recommend is using Suntegrity Natural Mineral Body Sunscreen.

Don’t Walk Barefoot in Public and Dirty Places

Walking barefoot is generally good for the feet, provided the walking surface is clean and free from pathogens. Otherwise, our feet can contract skin diseases that cause dryness, itching, peeling, inflammation, and blisters. The area around pools is also a source of fungi, viruses, and bacteria, so we advise you always use slippers or flip-flops in the swimming pool area.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You can prevent and cure many skin conditions on your feet with proper hygiene. However, some conditions require medical help. See your doctor if you have problems with the following.

Warts

Warts are balls of hardened skin on the feet caused by a virus. You are at risk of developing warts if you walk barefoot on a dirty surface or if your feet touch someone else’s warts. Don’t use any OTC medications on your own but seek medical help. Your doctor will assess your condition and recommend removing your warts with a laser, liquid nitrogen, minor surgery, a prescription topical, or an OTC product.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection caused by exposing your bare feet to the fungus, which thrives in humid areas. Patients typically experience discomfort, itching, burning, dry skin, scaling, and skin cracking. Your doctor will prescribe topical medication, antifungal pills, or recommend an OTC antifungal product.

Foot ulcers

A foot ulcer is a big open sore on your foot, usually on the toes. It can become infected, filled with pus, and cause pain, swelling, itching, and burning. People with diabetes, poor blood circulation, heart and kidney patients, obese people, smokers, and heavy drinkers are more prone to developing foot ulcers. The treatment usually requires oral or intravenous antibiotics and sometimes surgery to remove the infected tissue.

Calluses

Calluses are areas of thick, hard skin that form at the points where your foot rubs against footwear. With proper hygiene, they often disappear on their own, but in case they persist, contact your doctor. Potential treatments include shaving off the callus, dissolving the callus with salicylic acid, cortisone injections, and even surgery.

Sweaty feet and unpleasant odor

If you can’t control the disagreeable smell and constant sweating of your feet with proper hygiene, see your doctor. They will determine if your condition is linked to stress, hormonal changes, medications, or other health factors. Your doctor may prescribe antiperspirants, Botox injections, and surgery.

Conclusion

People often pay little attention to their feet because they are mostly hidden from sight – until the summer comes. Caring for your feet should be part of your daily routine throughout the year to ensure they remain clean, smooth, and free from skin infections.

7 Hair Removal Methods for Smooth, Hairless Skin

Hair removal can be a tedious cosmetic treatment – it either has to be done every few days or the process itself lasts long. Fortunately, there are now many hair removal options to choose from, and some even provide permanent results. The trick is to find the method that doesn’t irritate your skin, lasts long, and fits your budget.

What works for one person may not work for another. The only way to find a suitable hair removal method is to try them out. Knowing in advance how they work helps narrow down potential choices and avoid many trial and error situations.

This article reviews popular hair removal options to help you find the right solution. Read on to learn how each treatment works, which areas it is good for, and how long it provides smooth, hairless skin.

7 Hair Removal Methods

Most people are familiar with shaving and waxing. However, the beauty industry offers advanced technological solutions for the removal of unwanted hair.

We picked seven methods that provide different benefits, from affordability to long-lasting results. You can stick with the one that suits you the best or alternate the treatments depending on your budget, mood, and the state of your skin.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is one of the longest-lasting hair removal methods. Lasers target the dark pigment in the hair follicles and stunt hair growth. Some spas use newer, more advanced lasers with long pulses that can target blonde hair, but most devices are only effective on dark hair. Lasers can be used on all body areas, except around the eyes, so you need another method for the eyebrows.

Lasering requires four or more treatments every four to six weeks for results that last for months or even years. When the hair eventually grows back, it is finer and lighter in color.

The laser doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal, but months and years are still a long time, especially when compared to the effects of other hair removal methods.

If you are considering laser hair removal, opt for a professional rather than an at-home device because professional laser treatments are safer and provide quicker results.

Note: Learn how to prepare for laser hair removal, and if laser hair removal during pregnancy is safe.

The skin experts at Vibrant Skin Bar take pride in the results we achieve with this method. If you are considering a laser treatment, schedule a session today!

Waxing

Waxing is a hair removal method in which the cosmetic provider applies wax on the patient’s skin and pulls it in the opposite direction of hair growth, removing hair from the root.

You can purchase wax at a pharmacy and perform the treatment at home, but it is best done by an expert. They can reach different areas of your body and properly prepare the skin, including exfoliation before the treatment.

Though waxing usually causes some pain and discomfort, it can be performed on all body areas, including the eyebrows.

Waxing doesn’t provide permanent results, but they can last between four to six weeks. Before you come in for your next treatment, let the hairs grow about a quarter of an inch. If they are shorter, the wax might not be able to grip them tightly enough to pull them out.

Note: Learn how waxing differs from laser hair removal.

Shaving

Shaving has been the hair removal norm for a long time. You only need a razor and several minutes of your time, which makes this hair removal option the quickest and most cost-effective. However, the results last the shortest. Underarm hair usually starts growing back after one day, while leg hair can take up to a week to emerge.

Shaving carries the risk of cuts, infection, scarring, and drying out the skin. To avoid drying out the skin, use a razor with moisture bars or apply a moisturizing product after shaving.

If you choose this method, use a shaving gel. It's better than soap or a shower gel, which have a drying effect on the skin. Shave against the direction of the hair's growth, and if some areas are less firm, pull the skin to create a smoother surface. Watch out for sharp razors to avoid cutting yourself.

Plucking

Plucking or tweezing is a great option if you want to remove only a few hairs. It's an excellent touch-up for missed hair after a depilatory cream or wax.

You can pluck any hair, but the method is not suitable for large areas because it can cause scarring or ingrown hairs. Plucking works well with facial hairs above the lips or around the eyebrows.

The process is simple. Grip the hair with a pair of tweezers and pull in the direction of hair growth. It can be painful, especially around the eyebrows, but the pain is not intense and passes quickly.

The duration of results after plucking depends on your hair growth. Some hairs need to be removed daily, but some don’t grow back for weeks.

Depilatory Creams

Hair removal creams or depilatory creams are a painless hair removal option. They contain chemicals that weaken a hair protein called keratin, causing the hair to fall out.

The process is straightforward: apply the cream, wait for some time (according to instructions), remove the product with a spatula, and wash the area with lukewarm water. It is essential that you read the label and not leave the cream on for longer than advised, as it can burn your skin. For safety, it's best to perform a patch test.

You can use depilatory creams on your legs, arms, armpits, toes. Avoid using them on the face and in your bikini area (unless the cream is specifically designed for such use) because the skin is more sensitive in these areas.

Some creams can be used on medium to fine hair on the upper lip, but make sure the instructions say so.

Since depilatory creams destroy hair just below the skin's surface, you can expect it to start growing back again in two to six days.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis uses shortwave radio frequencies to get rid of the hair. The frequencies are distributed through fine needles that go directly into the hair follicle to destroy it.

This is the only treatment the FDA considers permanent. Electrolysis prevents new hair growth, but most people need multiple follow-up appointments to achieve hairless skin for good.

Electrolysis can safely be done anywhere on the body and it is suitable for most skin and hair types.

Note that this is not a DIY solution. Choose a certified dermatologist or a cosmetic salon to ensure safe and successful results.

Note: Refer to our article to find out the differences between electrolysis and laser hair removal.

Epilation

Epilators are devices with mechanical tweezers that pluck hairs from the root. Epilation is initially painful, but the more you do it, the less it hurts. You can use an epilator in any part of the body, but it is best to use them on less sensitive areas such as the legs. This is because our legs can usually withstand the most pain.

Epilators can be used dry (after the shower) or wet (in the shower). Some people feel it's better to use them wet, as warm water loosens the follicles, making hairs easier to pull out. Glide the epilator along the target area until the hair is gone. The process is more effective if you use an exfoliator beforehand.

The effects of epilation last up to four weeks, which is perfect during the summer, when lasers don’t work.

Which Hair Removal Method Should You Choose?

The best hair removal method for you will depend on your skin type, potential skin conditions, budget, pain threshold, and how quickly you want to achieve smooth, hairless skin.

Each hair removal method we reviewed has its pros and cons. Laser hair removal provides long-lasting results, but it might not be an option for blonde hair. Shaving is quick and virtually free, but it comes with certain risks and the results are short-lived.

Consider each treatment in light of your specific needs and desires and stay open to using different hair removal options.

Conclusion

Hair removal is a hassle for most people who want smooth, hairless skin. Fortunately, a variety of hair removal methods are available today, providing quicker, cheaper, or longer-lasting solutions, depending on what you need at the moment.

What is Sunscreen and Why Must You Always Apply Some?

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are a danger many underestimate. Solar rays give us a tan, but they also burn the skin, contribute to premature aging, and can cause skin cancer in the long run.

Most people believe they don’t need sun protection for the half an hour they plan to spend outside, however, this is wrong. Sunscreen is a must whenever we go outside, even if it’s just for five minutes.

What is sunscreen exactly, how does it work, and how to choose the right product? Read on to understand why sunscreen is essential every day of the year.

What Is Sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a photoprotective topical product that deflects or absorbs UV rays, helping keep the skin safe from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation.

There are two types of ultraviolet radiation: UVA and UVB. Both damage the skin, making it age prematurely and contributing to skin cancer.

UVA are long wavelength rays that penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, where they cause long-term damage – e.g., aging and wrinkles.

UVB rays have shorter wavelengths and are responsible for sunburn. They affect the surface of the skin, causing immediate damage and sunburn, but also long-term harm that can lead to skin cancer.

Most sunscreens protect from UVB but not UVA rays. Those that offer protection from both types of UV rays are called broad-spectrum sunscreens.

No sunscreen, however, offers 100% protection. These products only provide a screen, not a complete block (even though they are also called sunblock). Every sunscreen product lets some of the radiation into the skin and the amount depends on the type of sunscreen.

Types of Sunscreens

We distinguish between mineral and chemical sunscreens based on their ingredients.

Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral or physical sunscreens contain one or both ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They create a protective barrier on the skin, deflecting sunrays before they penetrate the skin.

These products leave a white film when applied, and are more difficult to spread than chemical sunscreens. They come in limited formulations, including pastes, sprays, emulsions, and ointments.

Mineral sunscreens are currently the only products that the FDA considers safe and effective because they are environmentally friendly, do not cause allergic reactions, and are appropriate for people with sensitive skin.

Chemical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays, turn them into heat, and release them from the body. They contain ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate.

Chemical sunscreens are popular because they are easier to spread and come in a greater variety of formulations than mineral sunscreens, including oils, lotions, ointments, gels, emulsions, sprays, sticks, and powders.

Many manufacturers today use mineral and chemical ingredients in their formulations, taking the best properties of both types of components.

Who Should Use a Sunscreen?

Anyone over the age of six months should use a sunscreen whenever they leave the house, especially during sunny days. Environmental factors have caused ultraviolet rays to get stronger over the years, so even short periods of sun exposure can cause damage.

If you work near a window or drive for extended periods of time, you should also protect yourself with sunscreen. Windows usually filter out UVB rays, but not UVA.

Clouds don’t shield you from UV rays. At least 40% of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation passes through on a completely cloudy day and can cause a sunburn.

What Are the Benefits of Sunscreen?

Sunscreen is easily the most important product in our summer skin care routine. The benefits of using sunscreen products include:

Decreased chances of a sunburn
DNA damage prevention
Reduced risk of skin cancer
Delayed appearance of premature wrinkles and fine lines
Decreased risk of age spots and other hyperpigmentation issues

Using a sunscreen every day from an early age may remove the need for anti-aging products in our 20s and 30s because sun exposure is the main cause of premature aging signs.

How to Choose a Sunscreen?

Dermatologists agree that the best sunscreen is the one a person uses. However, apart from appealing to personal tastes, sunscreen needs to provide adequate protection and pass the following criteria:

Provide a broad-spectrum protection. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays, decreasing the risk of sunburn and premature aging.
Include a sun protection factor (SPF). An SPF marks the amount of time you can stay in the sun without getting burned. If you use an SPF 30, it means it will take you 30 times longer to burn in the sun than without the factor. Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of at least 30 during the summer, and at least 15 during the winter.
Be water-resistant. Water and sweat remove much of the skincare products we apply unless they are water-resistant. Water-resistant sunscreens work for 40 or 80 minutes, which is clearly marked on the product label.

Note: Find more information on how to choose a sunscreen.

One of our all-time favorites is Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral Sunscreen because it ticks all the above boxes, and provides a subtle tint that nicely covers skin imperfections.

View in Shop | $55

Note: Read our article on 8 best sunscreen products, and find more recommendations based on personal needs and preferences, including sensitive or acne-prone skin, environmental concerns, etc.

How to Apply a Sunscreen?

Apply your broad-spectrum product at least 20 minutes before being exposed to the sun to give the product time to bind properly to the skin.

Experts agree that your sunscreen most likely won’t give you complete protection for more than two hours, regardless of the product you use. That means you need to reapply it after the time is up.

About six to seven teaspoons or a shot glass of the product is enough for the whole body. Most people use too little product – from a quarter to just half of the amount of product needed for complete protection. To achieve optimal protection, be generous when applying sunscreen.

Spread the sunscreen as uniformly as possible. This might be difficult for the back or parts of the body that sweat more than others. Ask someone for assistance with those hard-to-reach areas, and don’t forget to reapply for ongoing protection.

Remember that sunscreen doesn’t block the sun’s rays but only provides a temporary screen, so avoid staying in direct sunlight for too long.

Is Sunscreen Safe?

According to the FDA, the only safe and effective sunscreen products are mineral based. The institution questions the safety profile of chemical sunscreens because of insufficient data on the effects of the ingredients being absorbed by the body. Until they have conclusive evidence, the FDA continues to advocate using any sunscreen product that is not proven unsafe.

Conclusion

If you can do one thing for your skin today, start using sunscreen. Look for broad-spectrum, SPF 30+ sunscreen products and remember to apply them every day if you want to maintain a youthful and fresh look and lower your risk of skin cancer.

7 Benefits of Coffee Scrub to Rejuvenate Your Body

When we talk about skin care, the focus is often on facial skin. However, the skin on our bodies needs just as much nurturing.

Coffee is recognized in the beauty industry as an amazingly beneficial ingredient in skin care products for the body. We all know how a morning cup helps kickstart the day, but these brilliant beans also help reinvigorate the body when applied to the skin.

Let’s see what benefits you can expect from coffee body scrubs and how often to use them for the best results.

7 Benefits of Coffee Scrubs

Body skin exfoliation is an essential step in body skin care, and coffee scrubs are among the most popular products for that purpose. Apart from exfoliation, they bring many other benefits, especially if combined with other helpful ingredients.

Vibrant Skin Bar has formulated a fantastic coffee scrub with cinnamon. The spice boosts the product’s antioxidative properties while avocado and jojoba oils infuse the skin with moisture.

Read on to learn how a coffee scrub helps our body rejuvenate.

1. It Reduces Inflammation

Coffee contains polyphenols such as hydrocinnamic and chlorogenic acids, which reduce oxidative stress from free radicals, protecting the body’s tissues and skin from inflammation.

Note: Learn more about how to reduce inflammation and which anti-inflammatory skincare products and ingredients to look out for.

2. It Improves Blood Circulation

Coffee body scrubs involve mechanically rubbing the skin. This stimulates blood flow and improves circulation.

3. It Removes Dead Skin Cells

Large coffee particles used in coffee body scrubs work as a physical exfoliant, peeling dead skin cells and impurities off the skin’s surface. The antioxidants in coffee promote new skin cell growth, improving skin texture by smoothing and rejuvenating it.

Note: Read about some amazing homemade cellulite scrubs in our article 10 Best DIY Cellulite Scrubs.

4. It Prevents Premature Aging

Coffee scrubs help reduce premature aging signs

Antioxidants in coffee help repair UV damage and premature skin aging signs, including:

Sunspots
Freckles
Fine lines and wrinkles
Dull skin
Large pores
Scars
Stretch marks

5. It Reduces the Appearance of Cellulite

Massaging a coffee scrub in the direction of lymphatic flow (upwards towards the heart) improves circulation and removes excess water from the skin. The skin becomes firmer, reducing the appearance of cellulite or fat deposits underneath the skin.

Note: Learn how innovative QWO injections help reduce cellulite.

6. It Depuffs Swollen Areas

Coffee is a well-known diuretic. Massaging the skin with a coffee scrub helps remove moisture and toxins from areas that retain fluids, such as the lower legs and ankles.

7. It Helps Reduce Body Acne

Coffee’s anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial ingredients (e.g., chlorogenic acid), as well as its pore-unclogging properties help minimize breakouts, reduce redness, soothe the skin, and keep it clear.

How Often Should You Exfoliate?

To experience the benefits of coffee body scrubs, you should incorporate them into your regular body skin care routine. The optimal frequency for using coffee scrubs depends on the person’s age, skin type, specific skin issues, etc. If you have dry skin, start with once a week, and monitor the results. People with oily and combination skin may benefit from coffee scrubs two or three times per week.

Note: Read our articles to find out more about the best skin care routine for dry skin and how to treat oily skin.

It's essential to use a moisturizer after scrubbing (unless the product includes hydrating agents) because coffee draws moisture from the skin.

Conclusion

In the race against aging signs, many people focus only on the face and neglect their bodies.

It’s never too late to start taking care of the skin on your body. Include a coffee body scrub in your skin care regimen and enjoy the transformative effects of this powerful ingredient. If you are not sure about the proper way to use it, you might find helpful our article on how to use a body scrub correctly.

Read our article and learn if you can use a body scrub on your face.

Chemical Peel Aftercare: 11 Dos and Don’ts

Imagine seeing improvement in pigment, wrinkles and scars with one simple treatment - a chemical peel!

Chemical peels can in fact do that to a large extent. They don’t remove all skin imperfections, but they reveal visibly younger, smoother, and brighter skin after one or a series of treatments.

The effectiveness of a chemical peel depends on the type of peel, its intensity, and how well you treat your skin after the procedure.

Read our article on chemical peel types to choose the right peel for your skin issue.

Today we’ll help you understand the importance of adequate chemical peel aftercare and give you general tips on what to do and what to avoid after a chemical peel.

Chemical Peel Aftercare: 11 Dos and Don’ts

Chemical peels are customized for each patient depending on their skin type and skin concern. The treatments vary in intensity and depth of penetration, resulting in different aftercare recommendations for each patient.

Your medical provider will explain how to treat your skin post-treatment to help it heal safely and to maximize the effects of the procedure.

The following tips are universal and apply to all chemical peel patients.

Dos: 5 Things to Do After a Chemical Peel

1. Listen to Your Chemical Peel Provider

Choose a board-certified medical professional for the treatment because chemical peels use acid solutions to penetrate the skin. It requires medical knowledge and experience. To ensure the safety of the treatment, follow your medical provider’s instructions on how to care for your skin after the treatment. They know best what’s been done to your skin and how to ensure the effectiveness of the chemical peel.

2. Wash Your Skin with Lukewarm Water

The skin is very sensitive after a chemical peel. Cold or hot water may feel uncomfortable and aggravate your skin. To avoid any skin irritation, use cool or lukewarm water when you rinse your face.

3. Use Sunscreen

Resurfaced skin after a chemical peel is more sensitive to UV rays. If you expose it to the sun, it may cause inflammation. Sunscreen is always an essential skincare product, but is a must after a chemical peel because it protects the skin while its natural skin barrier is still weak. Make sure you use it whenever you go outside or spend time near a window.

We recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Elta MD UV Pure is a great choice for patients after a chemical peel treatment because it checks all the boxes as a highly protective sun-blocking product for all skin types, including sensitive.

4. Use Gentle Skincare Products

In line with the above recommendations, use skincare products that won’t irritate and additionally dry out your sensitive skin. Go for soap-free cleansers and water-based moisturizers without harsh ingredients. Avoid retinol, exfoliating agents, and other abrasive components.

Your medical provider may recommend a gentle cleanser and moisturizer to use after the treatment to ensure your skin stays clean and well hydrated. The Vibrant Skin Bar team suggests SkinMedica’s Facial Cleanser because it doesn’t strip the face of its natural oils. The cleanser’s soothing and calming properties are suitable for all skin types.

5. Moisturize

Osmosis MD Infuse Nutrient Activating Mist

Skin is dryer than usual after a chemical peel, and you need to hydrate it. Your medical provider may recommend a heavy-duty ointment after a deep peel. After light or medium peels, Replenish Hydrating Cream is a great choice because it thoroughly hydrates and soothes sensitive skin.

A moisturizer improves your skin’s natural protective barrier. Apply it several times a day or whenever your skin feels tight and you need to soften it to ease the discomfort. If you feel that you need extra hydration, look for gentle hydrating mists that you can spray on your face throughout the day without applying pressure on the skin. Osmosis MD Infuse Nutrient Activating Mist restores moisture while fortifying your skins natural barrier with antioxidants.

Don’ts: 6 Things to Avoid After a Chemical Peel

1. Don’t Touch, Pick, or Scratch

Medical providers warn against applying pressure on treated skin after most cosmetic treatments. Chemical peels not only expose raw, sensitive skin, but they also cause the top layers of skin to peel. This may frustrate patients and tempt them to remove the peeling skin with their fingers.

Peeling, touching, picking, or scratching the skin after a chemical peel can lead to bleeding, infections, breakouts, and scarring. Use a moisturizer instead and let the skin shed off naturally to avoid complications.

2. Don’t Exfoliate

You’ve already exfoliated your skin with a chemical peel. The newly resurfaced skin is free of dead cells, oil, and dirt, so additional exfoliation can only irritate it and cause damage. Wait about one week for light and medium peels or until the skin is fully healed to exfoliate it.

3. Don’t Use Too Many Skincare Products

Swap your usual beauty routine for a minimal skincare regime. After a chemical peel, it’s best to stick to a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Avoid retinol creams and heavier products with active ingredients and irritants.

After a medium peel, wait about one week to resume your usual skincare routine. After a deep peel, you will have to wait longer for your skin to completely heal.

4. Avoid Other Cosmetic Treatments

To prevent unnecessary damage to sensitive skin, wait about two weeks before you get another cosmetic treatment. That includes facial waxing, Botox, dermal fillers, laser resurfacing, and other potentially abrasive procedures.

5. Don’t Expose Your Skin to Excessive Heat

Avoid exposure to the sun, tanning beds, saunas, hot tubs, and other sources of heat. Excessive heat and sweating can irritate the skin, cause an infection, and extend recovery time after a chemical peel.

6. Avoid Strenuous Physical Activity

Avoid intensive workouts for the same reason you would avoid saunas. Strenuous physical activity causes excessive sweating and increases blood circulation, which can intensify the side effects of your chemical peel and delay recovery.

Conclusion

Chemical peels are an excellent way to take years off your skin. However, it’s important to stick to best aftercare practices to ensure the treatment’s safety and effectiveness. Most importantly, listen to your medical provider and stick to their post-treatment advice for the best results.

Skin Care Guide: Tips and Routines for All Skin Types

The purpose of skin care is not only to help you look good but to preserve your overall health. The skin is your first line of defense against pollutants and damaging UV rays. Maintaining its barrier function helps reduce the effects of harmful environmental factors on your body.

Of course, the added benefit of caring for the skin is its improved appearance. Health and appearance are the main reasons why people spend time developing their unique skin care routine.

Everyone’s skin care routine is and should be different because everyone’s skin is unique and reacts differently to cosmetic products. However, there are some universal rules to skin care you should always follow.

We’ve put together this detailed skin care guide to help you understand the basics of proper skin care and start designing your plan for healthy, resilient, and glowing skin.

Know Your Skin Type

The first step to creating a skin care routine is to discover your skin type. There are five main skin types.

Type of Skin	Characteristics
Dry	Flaky, tight skin
Oily	Shiny, greasy complexion
Combination	Oily T-zone, with dry patches around the nose
Sensitive	Red, irritated skin, prone to eczema
Normal	Healthy skin without the above-mentioned issues

People usually have the same skin type during most of their life, but they may develop a different skin type due to a change in climate, hormonal changes, or lack of certain nutrients.

Skin Care 101: Beginner’s Guide to Skin Care

Many dermatologists agree that simplicity is key to starting your skin care routine properly. With so many products on the market and ingredients whose effects are unknown, it’s best to start with a simple, basic routine

Morning Skin Care Routine	Night Skin Care Routine
Cleanser	Cleanser
Moisturizer	Exfoliator (once or twice per week)
Sunscreen	Moisturizer

Note: For more tips on which products to use in the evening, check out our guide on how to create a night skincare routine tailored to your needs.

Let’s go over these products to understand their purpose in the daily skin care routine.

Cleanser

Cleansers remove impurities from the skin. Morning cleansers clean oil, sweat, and cosmetic products from the previous night. Night cleansers remove dirt, debris, UV blockers, and other impurities that accumulate during the day. There are gel, cream, foam, powder, and other types of cleansers.

If you have oily skin, choose a lightweight gel or foam cleanser that balances the skin’s natural oils. For dry skin, use hydrating cream cleansers. If you have sensitive skin, avoid cleansers with sulfates or any ingredients that might irritate the skin.

Note: Read our article, and find out what are the best products for sensitive skin.

The basic rule of cleansing is to do it in the morning and before going to bed. If your skin is very dry, skip the morning cleansing and only rinse your face with water.

If you’re unsure about your skin type, choose a hydrating cleanser for all skin types. They usually have ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides that replenish the skin’s moisture levels.

ALASTIN Gentle Cleanser is a good solution for all skin types because it gently but thoroughly removes deep impurities.

Moisturizer

The skin loses moisture due to sweating, low water intake, stress, and other reasons. You need to maintain your skin’s optimal moisture levels to prevent it from becoming too dry or oily. For that reason, moisturizers are an essential part of skin care for all skin types.

Moisturizers are typically applied in the morning and evening. If your skin is oily, you may apply it once a day. Many moisturizing products are applied while your skin is still damp after cleansing.

For oily skin, use lightweight moisturizers like skinbetter Hydration Boosting Cream. It provides a long-lasting hydrating effect with ceramides-rich formula.

Dry and sensitive skin will benefit from this creamy, rich Replenish Hydrating Cream by SkinMedica that provides deep hydration and nourishment.

Osmosis MD Enrich is a good solution for a night skin care routine because it hydrates and helps repair the skin from daily damaging factors.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the most important step in any daily skin care routine because it protects the skin from its worst enemy—UV rays. Not all sunscreens offer satisfactory protection, so do your research before choosing the right sunscreen. Make sure it is labeled "broad-spectrum" with an SPF 30 or higher.

Note: Read our article 8 Summer Skincare Tips to protect your skin from UV rays and humidity.

Use sunscreen with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, green tea, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides if you have dry skin.

If you have oily skin, look for lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreens that won’t clog your pores. They are labeled “non-comedogenic.”

Elta MD UV Daily is a good solution for all skin types. It is based on a mineral UV-blocker, zinc oxide, suitable for sensitive skin, and hyaluronic acid that boosts the skin’s moisture retention.

Exfoliator

Exfoliators are a necessary step in any weekly skin care routine, especially for people over 30. The skin slows down its cell turnover somewhere at the age of 30 and dead skin cells accumulate faster on the skin’s surface. Dead skin cell buildup hinders active ingredients in skincare products from doing their job.

Exfoliating products use either chemical or physical peeling ingredients. Chemical exfoliators use alpha-hydroxy (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHA) to dissolve deep impurities in the skin. Physical exfoliators use granules, crystals, or other small particles in a scrubbing product that help you manually scrub away the impurities on the skin’s surface.

Chemical peels are gentler and reach the skin’s deeper layers, so they are recommended for dry and sensitive skin.

Optional Products for a Skin Care Routine
The basic 3-step skin care routine with the right products for your skin type can transform your complexion. However, if you have specific skin issues like signs of aging, extreme dryness, or acne, you’ll benefit from adding toners, serums, face masks, and other products to your skin care routine.

Toner

Toners are applied after cleansing and before a serum or moisturizer. They are lightweight products that prepare the skin for active ingredients in heavier products. They tone the skin and absorb excess oil, so people with oily skin often use them.

Serum

Serums pack a denser concentration of active ingredients than moisturizers. Their purpose is to penetrate deeper skin layers and provide rich nourishment, hydration, and skin repair. Apply it after cleansing and/or toning and before a moisturizer. If your skin is extra oily or you want to keep it simple, use it instead of a moisturizer.

We recommend Osmosis MD Correct Preventative Retinal Serum, one of the most powerful rejuvenation serums. It is suitable for all skin types, boosts collagen production, reduces signs of aging, and provides UVB protection.

Face Mask

Face masks are applied one to three times a week to help the skin deal with a specific pain point, depending on the face mask’s ingredients. For example, some masks target dehydration, premature skin aging, dull complexion, acne, and more.

Dry skin may benefit from hydrating masks with hyaluronic acid, green tea, cucumber, and other moisturizing agents.

If you have oily skin, use clay masks a few times a week to absorb extra oil and balance your skin’s natural oil levels.

For sensitive skin, use masks that will soothe redness and irritation. Some ingredients to look for are hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, cucumber, thermal spring water, and lavender. Avoid salicylic acid and physical exfoliators that may irritate the skin.

Acne Treatment

If your skin is prone to breakouts, try topical, over-the-counter treatments with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. They treat acne and may prevent future breakouts. You can apply them on the whole face or use them as spot treatments.

Apply acne topicals right after cleansing and wait for 10-15 minutes before applying a serum or moisturizer.

Note: Learn what causes acne and how to prevent them. Not treating acne properly may lead to the formation of acne scars.

Face Mist

Face mists are used on the go to give your skin a boost of hydration whenever you feel like it’s tight and sore. They are suitable for all skin types. You can choose a simple formula that quickly restores the skin’s moisture levels or products infused with powerful ingredients for added benefits.

iS Clinical Copper Firming Mist instantly hydrates the skin while also firming it and providing protection against aging skin.

Eye Cream

The skin around the eyes is thinner than on the rest of the face. Eye creams target issues that are specific to that area – extreme dryness, wrinkle formation, dark circles, puffiness. Apply them after cleansing from the inner to the outer under-eye contour, gently padding the area with your fingertips.

This Instant Bright Eye Cream combines powerful ingredients to help the skin with all common under-eye area issues, reducing the visible signs of aging.

Conclusion

Skin care is a necessary part of your daily hygiene. Take the time to properly cleanse, nourish, and protect your skin to keep it supple and resilient against environmental pollutants.

You’ll need time to test various products and find what works for your unique complexion but be patient. Your skin will thank you by transforming itself from dull and dehydrated to healthy and vibrant.

Microneedling Under Eyes: How It Hides Dark Circles

Dark circles under the eyes contribute to a tired expression and older appearance. Women typically use make-up to conceal dark circles, but excessive make-up can cause more skin issues.

Microneedling is an effective cosmetic solution for the problematic under-eye area. It successfully targets dark circles, puffiness, wrinkles, and other aging skin signs.

Read on to learn how microneedling the under-eye area works and how it can help hide dark circles.

Microneedling treatment for dark circles

What Are Dark Circles Under Eyes and What Causes Them

Dark circles are blue, purple, or black patches under the eyes that usually appear due to thinning of skin in that area. As we age, our body produces less collagen, and the fat pads in our cheeks deflate and descend. As a result, the under-eye area becomes hollow, with the thin skin showing pools of blood vessels underneath.

Dark circles do not always appear as a result of aging. Other factors include:

Genetics
Sun exposure
Fatigue
Allergies
Dehydration
Unhealthy diet
Excess alcohol intake
Eye strain
Lack of sleep
Use of electronics

Microneedling for Dark Circles Under Eyes: The Procedure

Microneedling has proven effective in treating dark circles. The procedure is FDA-approved, safe, and requires little or no recovery time.

The cosmetic provider first applies a numbing cream to the treatment area to minimize pain and discomfort. When the numbing product sets in, the provider uses a handheld device called a Microneedling Pen which has hundreds of tiny needles that create tiny punctures on the skin. The process lasts for up to 20 minutes.

The device doesn’t cause any serious injuries, only small wounds on the skin’s surface to trigger the body’s natural healing mechanism. The body responds to the treatment by overproducing collagen, which renews and plumps up the skin.

The Result

The results of microneedling the under-eye area is visibly reduced appearance of dark circles.

You may need one or several microneedling treatments to get the desired effect. The number of required treatments depends on your physical characteristics and the size of the problematic area. The treatments are spaced four to six weeks apart. The results are long-lasting, with maintenance treatments approximately every six months.

After each treatment, the patient may experience redness and bruising. However, the side effects usually clear up on their own after a few days.

Note: Microneedling restores collagen production and prolongs youthful looks. In comparison, using Botox under the eyes does not restore collagen production and requires maintaining the results by receiving Botox injections every three to four months.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Microneedling Under Eyes?

If you have dark circles under your eyes and are in good health, microneedling may be the best solution for you.

You should not do a microneedling treatment if you are pregnant, have an active skin infection, or have a wound-healing medical issue.

Conclusion

Dark circles under the eyes appear due to many reasons. Luckily, microneedling addresses the symptom regardless of the cause. This cosmetic treatment effectively conceals dark circles for good, rejuvenating your under-eye area and giving your skin a well-rested, youthful appearance.

If you want to learn more tips, read our article and find out how to get rid of sunken eyes.