Search

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

You may be confused by a newly noticed graphic with plus signs (+) located on skin care products for sun protection. You may be a product junkie and are already in the know. You may travel often or live in another country that uses this system as a standard practice.What am I referring to? The PA system (Protection grade against UVA). This system is based on three levels: PA+, PA++ and PA+++. PA+ is the lowest level of protection against UVA rays while PA+++ is the highest level of protection against UVA radiation. This system was developed in Japan and is getting more recognition as product availability expands worldwide.In the United States, SPF rating is the FDA standard in which we measure sunscreen’s effectiveness against UVB only. There is no rating system within the states to signify a products protection against UVA except for the labeling “Broad Spectrum.”As more people become educated on the dangers of UVA, this PA rating system will surely gain more attention.If you want to know more about the dangers of UVA please refer to my “Why you need to Protect Yourself from the Sun Year round” blog.For more general information concerning sunscreen, please read my “Tips and Tricks you may not know About Sunscreen” blog.Products to check out:Murad Essential-C Day Moisture SPF 30 - PA+++ Murad Anti-Aging Moisturizer SPF 20 PA++ for Blemish-Prone Skin Murad Essential-C Sun Balm Broad Spectrum SPF 35 PA+++ dr.brandt signature BB cream with Flexitone Supergoop City Sunscreen Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Supergoop SPF 35 Daily Correct CC Cream - Light/Medium Supergoop SPF 35 Daily Correct CC Cream - Medium/Dark  Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal MoniqueChantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

Anne F! Congrats on winning the EltaMD SKINCARE Product Giveaway!   Anne will receive the following EltaMD SKINCARE Products: Foaming Facial Cleanser ($21), Renewing Eye Gel ($50), AM Therapy ($30), UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 ($30), UV Daily SPF 40 ($25), PM Therapy ($30) + Product Sample Kit in clear plastic gift bag - $186+ retail value! Thank you to ALL of our wonderful Facebook Fans who entered! Stay tuned for future product giveaways, promotions and skin care tips! *Anne has already been contacted via email letting her know she is the winner! 

La Roche- Posay, the brand who’s name sake comes from the French village and treatment center in which they treat 7,500 dermatology patients a year, is on the fore front of bringing important sun protection technologies to the United States. Both Estheticians and dermatologist know the scrutiny that European and Australian countries have put on government regulations when labeling and developing sun protection products. Unfortunately in the US our FDA laws are outdated (from 1978, to be exact) and were developed when we had far less knowledge about both UVA and UVB radiation. SPF (Sun Protection factor) only signifies the amount of protection from UVB rays. These are the rays that cause sunburn and cancer. The US is unlike other countries in which we have no regulation system to know a product’s protection from UVA rays. UVA rays cause the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to premature aging and have also been linked to melanoma cancer. UVA rays are present whether it is sunny outside or not, in the same intensity from sun up, to sun down. This is why it is important within the States to purchase a sunscreen that says “broad spectrum”, meaning it has both UVA and UVB filters. With that said, unfortunately the US available UVA filters only cover a certain part of the wavelength spectrum, leaving skin unprotected from the short wavelength UVA rays, until now.Mexoryl or Ecamsule is currently the only organic FDA approved UVA filtering ingredient and has been formulated within La Roche- Posay's Anthelios SX and Anthelios 40. There are only a few sunscreens within the United States to use this important UVA filter. Mexoryl SX does not degrade significantly when exposed to sunlight; unlike the commonly used UVA sunscreen filter Avobenzone, which requires more chemical stabilizers to ensure the products effectiveness. Anthelios SX has won 12 beauty awards, is lightweight, perfect for everyday use as a morning moisturizer.Aside from great UVA technology, La Roche-Posay has mastered the technologies for creating mineral sunscreens that are lightweight and leave no white residue. This residue is what deters people from using sunscreen and protecting themselves. Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen Fluid is available in a regular and tinted formulation. It absorbs quickly, is non-comedogenic and dries to a matte finish.  These mineral sunscreens are formulated using CELL-OX Shield, which is a patented antioxidant formulation to combat free radical damaged caused by UV exposure. For us makeup lovers who also want a high sun protection level, The Anthelios 50 daily anti-aging primer is a great choice. This primer also contains the CELL-OX antioxidant protection. It can be worn just on its own, but it creates a smooth canvas for makeup application. It is suitable for all skin types and has a matte finish. Anthelios Anti-aging Primer contains micro-particles and silicone elastomers that reduce the appearance of fine lines, large pores, pigmentation and redness all while protecting the skin with an SPF of 50. Concerns over the effectiveness of sun protection products are of great concern to those of us in the Skin Care industry. Luckily, La Roche-Posay is pushing for high quality ingredients to be allowed in sunscreen formulations within the United States. These UV protectants products are soon to be used and desired by many people, for many sunny and not so sunny days to come.Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal MoniqueChantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

As summer time is slowing coming to a close and fall is quickly approaching, my family and I wanted to spend as much time as possible enjoying the summer weather and to get our last hoorahs in before the kids were off to school. We’ve spent our summer camping, goofing off in the pool, playing on the beach, adventures in the river amongst many other fun outdoor activities. I can honestly say we are a family that loves the outdoors, loves the feeling of the beautiful, warm sun touching our skin but, as an esthetician I am well aware of the damage it can cause if a person does not take the right precautions. It is always recommended to apply sunscreen at least every two hours, but due to the fact that I want my family to enjoy the weather as much as we possibly can and our days are spent mostly outdoors, I make sure to reapply sunscreen every 1 hour to 1.5 hours to make sure we are protected. Yes, I know it may seem time consuming (especially when you have little ones who make it a heck of a lot more difficult than it should be!) But it only takes a minute…if you have time to stop and send a text, you have time for something this important. It’s only a minute of your time and it can save your life. All Year Round I Never Leave Home With Out It Regardless of the season, temperature or weather, I never leave my home without carrying a trusting bottle of sunscreen with me. Whether it’s overcast at the beach or us playing in the snow, our skin is always protected. Always remember that water, sand and snow all reflect the sun’s rays making it even more powerful and dangerous. I recently discovered one of my favorite sunscreens, NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention Broad Spectrum SPF 30 UVA/UVB Sunscreen. NIA 24 is perfect for even the hottest days as it’s very lightweight and non-greasy. After reapplying several times throughout the day, my normally oily skin didn’t feel as if it was layered on thick like some brands had left me feeling or that gross greasy ‘drippy’ feeling others gave me when it was really warm out. To avoid an overly shiny look on those really humid days, I skip on putting on a moisturizer that morning since the NIA 24 not only has mango butter to hydrate the skin which left it so smooth and very soft but it also has patented Pro-Niacin which improves your skin’s texture, tone, discoloration and creates a tougher protective layer repairing your skin barrier. NIA 24 works for all skin types including sensitive skin and one bonus is that it’s fragrance free… my guys in house like it since it “doesn’t stink” like other sunscreens! To top off this amazing product, the NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention Broad Spectrum SPF 30 UVA/UVB Sunscreen was a SELF HEALTH’s Beauty Award Winner in 2012 and appeared in numerous magazines including Martha Stewart Living! Everywhere you look, the reviews for NIA 24 are awesome! How To Use NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention Broad Spectrum SPF 30 UVA/UVB Sunscreen I apply this NIA 24 sunscreen  two ways depending on what my day looks like.   If I’m going to run errands or go to a child’s practice where I don’t put on makeup I apply the sunscreen on a freshly washed, dried, clean face and neck fifteen minutes prior when leaving the house. If I have a meeting or just want to put makeup on that day I apply a thin layer on a freshly washed, dried, clean face and neck then after a minute or so apply your makeup on top. To make sure you’re doing what is best for your skin makes sure you buy makeup products that include SPF in them as an added protection and make sure you always keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If you really want to have the appearance of a dark tan, take the safe route and find a really good self-tanner and a great bronzer to get that summer glow all year round without the long term damage and wrinkles! Your skin will thank you!   Blog Written by askderm's Guest Esthetician  Stephanie Ivonne is a New Jersey licensed Esthetician.  Her fun-loving, outgoing personality will shine through her product selections & reviews to help you discover the hottest skincare and beauty products. When Stephanie is not scouring the internet for the next hot skincare product, she is a mother to two wonderful biological children, a dedicated foster mom and is devoted to her husband of 13 years.

  Summer may be over, but protecting your skin from UV radiation needs to be a priority year-round. Did you know that there are UV rays that cause cellular damage, including cancer and premature aging year round? UVA rays have the same intensity and cause the same amount of damage, sun up to sun down, no matter what time of the year and even penetrate cloud cover and glass! You may not be aware that there are two types of radiation from the sun that negatively affect our skin and our health: UVA and UVB rays. UVB Damage UVB rays are the short-wave length rays that penetrate the epidermis and bounce back causing sunburns and the majority of skin cancers.  Sun Protection Factor (SPF) signifies only the amount of protection against UVB rays, NOT UVA rays. UVA Damage UVA rays penetrate all the way to the dermis, unlike UVB rays. The damaging effects of UVA radiation is not immediately noticeable like the effects of a sunburn from UVB rays, but their effects are the most long term. UVA radiation is responsible for: Wrinkles and fine lines Loss of elasticity Hyperpigmentation Reduction in collagen Cataracts Cancer So how do we Protect Ourselves from UVA Radiation? To protect yourself from UVA radiation, you must choose a sunscreen that is labeled “Broad Spectrum” and you must wear it year round. Look for these sunscreen ingredients to protect your skin from UVA damage: Avobenzone Oxybenzone Ecamsule (Mexoryl) Zinc Oxide Titanium Dioxide Apply sunscreen every day. There are times that you are being exposed that you may not even realize. If you are driving to work, the side of your face and your hands are directly absorbing UVA rays, same goes for anyone working in an office and sitting by a window. Elta MD’s UV Clear contains Zinc Oxide to protect from UVA rays and the effects of premature aging.  I consider it my “Driving cream” for my hands. It has no greasy feel and does not leave a white residue on my steering wheel.   La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios SX SPF-15 is fairly new to the United States as it utilizes not just Avobenzone but Mexoryl, meaning it completely covers the entire UVA spectrum (UVA I & UVA II), unlike some Broad Spectrum sunscreens. This Sunscreen is moisturizing and perfect for everyday use. Intrinsic aging is the type of aging that is a natural part of life and is caused by genetics and hormones- meaning it is out of our control. Extrinsic aging, on the other hand is the aging we have caused ourselves by UV exposure, cigarette smoking, pollution and other environmental factors. About 80% of visible aging is caused by the extrinsic factor of sun damage. The good news is that we have control over this type of aging, so start slathering!   Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal Monique Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!  

  EltaMD™ is founded on the belief that the responsible and innovative application of medical expertise and science will change the way physician-dispensed skin care products treat people. The EltaMD sun care line includes a complete spectrum of sun care products, one for every skin type and unique need. EltaMD skin care products focus on providing safe, effective skin care that includes deep, gentle cleansing and intense moisturization for all skin types, including the most sensitive skin.   About EltaMD's Sun Care Products:   What you should know about the sun... It causes 90% of all skin cancers: Overcast days are not much safer than those that are sunny, as 70-80% of the sun's ultraviolet rays can get through the clouds. The sun is about 80% stronger when reflected off sand and snow. The sun's rays increase in intensity about 4% for every 1,000-foot rise in altitude. It's better to play or engage in sports before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. If that's not possible, try to avoid being out at high noon. The sun weakens the immune system, reducing your defense against infection. In general, kids can get all the vitamin D they need for strong bones from fortified milk, salmon, vitamin supplements and/or brief, casual sun exposure. About EltaMD's Skin Care Products: An all over moisturizer applied daily will help keep skin moist, but you might consider a rich, emollient moisturizer like EltaMD Moisturizer in the winter months to help combat the affects of cold, dry air. EltaMD Moisturizer seals moisture into the surface (preventing the moisture from evaporating). It is safe for even the most sensitive skin, fragrance-free, preservative-free and noncomedogenic. The best time to moisturize is after a shower and before bed, because studies show that more transepidermal water loss occurs overnight than during the day. If you like your morning shower but your skin is dry, then moisturize again before you hit the sheets.      There are three key steps to healthy skin: CLEANSE with a pH balanced cleanser that doesn't contain ingredients like AHAs or Glycolic acids that may irritate sensitive skin. MOISTURIZE with an oil-based moisturizer or lotion with a petrolatum base for maximum moisture retention and no sensitivity issues. PROTECT with a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects the skin from exposure to both UVA and UVB rays.   Current EltaMD Promotions:   Take advantage of our current 20% off coupon code for all EltaMD's products: ELTAMD20 Also, for EVERY order from AskDerm.com you can receive a Free Sample: Elta MD - Five Sample Pack! You must add this to your cart at checkout and offer valid while supplies last. Start Shopping EltaMD products by CLICKING HERE! 

What if I was to tell you that as you are headed down the slopes this winter, you are being exposed to almost twice the amount of UV rays than usual? Yes, this is true! Not only are you receiving direct exposure from the sun, but also around 80% of those rays are bouncing off the surface of the snow and back at your skin! To further complicate things, the strength of UV radiation increases with elevation. Sun exposure, wind exposure, and chilling temperatures can damage the skin, leading to sensitivities and pre-mature aging. No one should be giving up the health benefits from skiing and snowboarding, but steps should be taken to protect the health of the skin. 1. Use an emollient rich moisturizer or lotion to create a protective layer against outdoor conditions and protect skin against cracking, drying and redness due to over sensitization. 2. Sun protection is a must!  Apply a broad spectrum or a PA sunscreen 20 minutes prior to exposure. Reapplication is crucial throughout the day. Harsh winds, wet conditions and sweating can break down sunscreens more quickly than normal so be diligent about reapplying every 90 minutes or less. 3. Do not forget your lips. The skin on the lips is thinner than most of the skin on the rest of the face, making it more susceptible to damage from winds, low temperatures and sunburn.  Harsh conditions will easily lead to uncomfortable and unsightly chapped lips. A very common place on the face for skin cancer is the lips, as they are commonly forgotten, and rarely protected. Use a lip balm with at least an SPF of 15, though an SPF of 30 is ideal. Keep it in a zipped pocket and reapply often. 4. Wear protective clothing and eyewear. Dark clothing, layered fabrics and thicker fabrics will filter out more UV rays. Wear protective clothing around your neck and face. Do not go without gloves, wear a hat to protect your scalp and ears, and make sure your goggles are UV protectant. 5. Limit your exposure. Avoid peek hours of UV exposure by getting to the mountain in the early hours of the morning, or waiting until the late afternoon or early evening. 6. If your skin is red, blotchy, tingling and or numb, it is time to take a break and warm up indoors. This is a sign of frostnip, not as serious as frostbite but a precursor and a warning.  These tips should insure you are having fun this winter while maintaining and protecting the health of your skin. So strap on the bindings, click into those skis and enjoy! Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal Monique Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

AskDerm.com Promotes Skin Cancer Awareness Month with Free Sun Protection "Leading online skincare retailer offers free giveaways on SPF products in May."    BLOOMFIELD, NY, May 03, 2013 /24-7PressRelease/ -- AskDerm.com, a leading online retailer of Dermatologist recommended products, is helping to spread awareness on the importance of sun protection. Throughout May, AskDerm.com will be giving away free sun protection products. These free gifts will be announced on the AskDerm.com Facebook page, and include products from popular brands such as KINeSYS, Colorescience, and Elta MD.  Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 3.5 million skin cancers in over 2 million people are diagnosed annually. "Studies have shown that the daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen can significantly reduce skin damage caused by UV radiation," said Dr. Mercedes Florez, a consultant for AskDerm.com. "The ideal sunscreen should protect the skin against both UVB and UVA radiation, and contain enzymes or other active ingredients that will stimulate DNA repair systems." Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. It occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells (most often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine or tanning beds) triggers mutations, or genetic defects, that lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. AskDerm.com provides over 100 sun protection products from top manufacturers. These products range from SPF 15 to SPF 60, and can help protect all skin types from harmful rays. If you are unsure what product is best for you, contact our Customer Service representatives at 1-800-393-3848 for expert advice. Visit www.AskDerm.com for a full list of available sun protection products. AskDerm.com has been offering the highest quality Dermatologist Recommended Skin Care Products from the leading brands since 1997. Our team of skin care specialists is constantly seeking out new and clinically proven products to offer to our customers. AskDerm.com is intuitive and easy to navigate. The AskDerm.com customer service team is focused on providing product information to ensure our customers always purchase the right products for their skin. We provide safe and secure shopping with free shipping on all orders over $49, free samples with every order, and free gifts for orders over $75. For more information visit www.AskDerm.com.

Walking through the makeup aisle in a store or browsing makeup products online can be a pretty daunting task. As an askderm product specialist, one of the most common makeup questions we get it is, what is the real difference between a BB and CC cream? Let’s get straight to the facts.  What is a BB cream? A BB (a.k.a. beauty balm) cream is a tinted moisturizer that does much more than act as a foundation. It also provides your skin with much needed benefits such as anti-aging effects, sun protection, and hydration for dry skin. But my favorite part is the coverage that a BB cream provides. I tend to have small breakouts every now and then that I want to cover up. With a BB cream, I can apply it to my face to give me full-coverage without the heavy foundation feeling. The key benefits to using a BB cream are: It’s a lighter, tinted foundation Great for all skin types Includes SPF to help fight the sun’s harmful rays Some BB creams I suggest using are: VICHY Laboratories ProEVEN Mineral BB Cream La Roche-Posay Effaclar BB Blur Rodial BB Venom Skin Tint Brandt Signature BB Cream With Flexitone LifeCell BB Cream Hydrating Anti-Oxidant Beauty Balm SPF 30 What is a CC cream? A CC (a.k.a. color correcting) cream works to restore your skin’s natural tone, especially for those who suffer from redness or any other color related issues. Not only is it an effective moisturizer, it also has a higher SPF for all you beach goers. And we all know that with added sun protection also comes anti-aging properties. A CC cream has a thicker consistency than a BB cream, which allows it to treat wrinkles and fine line The key benefits to using a CC cream are: It works to even the skins tone and correct complexion Has powerful anti-aging properties Keeps your skin hydrated while treating Some CC creams I suggest using are: Nip and Fab CC Cream SPF La Roche-Posay Rosaliac CC Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 30 La Bella Donna CC Cream Phytomer CC Crème - Skin Perfecting Cream Brandt CC Glow with Signature Ruby Crystal What should you use? If you’re looking for a light, tinted moisturizer to act as a foundation, than a BB cream is right for you. But, if your looking for a moisturizer to either correct color related issues or to help fight aging, add a CC cream to your daily skincare routine. Whether you decide to get a BB or CC cream, you will be treating your skin like never before. Give yourself a noticeably flawless look that everyone will stop and stare at.  

Of the four main skin types, Oily skin can be the hardest and most frustrating to treat. It is an on going battle of balance and you sometimes have to treat and care for more than one skin type depending on each zone of the face. First off it is important to properly identify oily skin. Oily skin has an excess production of sebum, a fatty substance that lubricates the skin. The surface of oily skin can appear thicker as dead skin cells are trapped and clogged in the follicle due to this sebum. It is characterized by larger pores and open comedones (blackheads). There are several myths concerning oily skin, first being that large pores are solely caused by poor hygiene. Unfortunately this is untrue. Pore size is genetically determined. While poor hygiene can lead to more blackhead clogs that expand the follicle wall, making them larger, it is much more likely that you have your parents to blame for your initial large pore size. Another huge misconception concerning oily skin and black heads in particular, is that the dark color of the clog is from dirt. While the clog contains debris from dirt, it is also comprised of dead skin cells and sebum. It is the oxidation of this sebum that gives black heads their color. Lastly greasy foods do not cause oily skin. While a lack of nutrition can lead to poor skin health, having a slice of greasy pizza at noon will never be the cause of your T-zone oil slick by three o’clock. To the contrary,  eating foods high in Omega- fatty acids such as wild caught fatty fish, avocados and tree nuts can improve the health of oily skin by balancing moisture levels and reducing inflammation. So we have identified skin type and cleared up myths about oily skin, now what? A Proper skincare routine is crucial to the on going fight against oily skin. As mentioned earlier caring for oily skin involves maintaining balance. While it is important to remove excess oil from the skin’s surface, you still need to maintain the skin’s hydration level. It is an unfair truth but skin can be oily and yet still be dehydrated, as dehydration refers to a lack of water, not a lack of oil. These are my healthy skin care tips for oily skin: I recommend using a salicylic acid or a beta-hydroxy acid facial cleanser at least twice a day. Before washing your face, wash your hands with soap and water to remove bacteria. Removing bacteria and germs will prevent them from being deposited onto the skin surface and into the follicle. If you are already dealing with oily skin, why deal with acne too? Exfoliation is also important, as a buildup of cells are trapped by the excess sebum and can perpetuate the cycle. But never over exfoliate or over strip your skin of this protective sebum, as your skin may fight back and produce even more oil to repair its barrier. Remember to moisturize with an oil free moisturizer containing a broad spectrum SPF. Oily skin needs the hydration and some skin care ingredients such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid can make the skin more sensitive to the already damaging effects of the sun’s radiation. Weekly or bi-weekly masks containing clay may also help draw extra oil away from the skin, but unless your entire face is oily keep this mask use to the t-zone only as to not disturb surrounding healthy skin. Leave the squeezing to a professional. We are trained to properly extract blackheads. Improper technique can lead to scaring, broken capillaries and breakouts. So please step away from the 10x magnification mirror. Oil blotting papers are a great way to rid the skin of shine and can be easily stored and used throughout the day. Has your makeup ever become a scary darker color as the day wears on? This is also caused by sebum oxidation, so a foundation a shade or two lighter than your skin may be helpful. Just use your correctly matched shade around the perimeter and contour of your face. While all this information may leave you feeling like you will never win the battle against oil, there is one positive note worth mentioning to lift the spirits of us oily skin sufferers - Oily skin appears more youthful, seems to age slower and shows less fine lines and wrinkles over time because the sebum prevents loss of water in the moisture barrier. Who wouldn’t want to trade a little shine for one less visible wrinkle?   Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal Monique Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

When it comes to sun damage it’s always easier to prevent than to fix. Frequent unprotected exposure to sunlight, whether you get a burn or not, can lead to premature aging and pigmentation as well as cancer. Luckily for us there are thousands of amazing options for sunblock and other skincare products that will keep you protected and beautiful no matter the season or occasion! ................   Vitamin C/AntioxidantsSun damage is an oxidative process. Vitamin C and other antioxidants don’t block the rays but it slows the damage process to the collagen and aids in the repair process. Vitamin C not only helps against free radicals but it also stimulates collagen production and can help brighten the tone of your skin with continual use. Here are some of the Vitamin C products that I’m totally in love with right now: Replenix by Topix CF Purifying Foaming Antioxidant Cleanser Sun protection is a must have but a top complaint of sunscreen is that it is heavy and has a tendency to make people break out. This cleanser is amazing at purifying those pores plus giving you the added benefit of another antioxidant powerhouse, Green Tea. This cleanser also has CoQ10, Cucumber and Chamomile Extracts which are also great anti inflammatory and anti aging ingredients. Murad Advanced Active Radiance Serum The new formula of this serum delivers 50x the free radical neutralizing power of the previous formula. It not only protects your skin from harmful environmental effects all day long but it also improves skin firmness by up to 63% in just 15 minutes! If that wasn’t enough this serum is also powered by a new Vitamin C technology that helps to improve skin brightness, clarity and radiance.   Murad Essential-C Eye Cream SPF 15 The delicate eye tissue needs a gentle sunblock. Eyes and lips age faster than the rest of your skin but you can protect those precious peepers with this incredible vitamin c powered eye sunscreen cream. This eye cream also immediately stimulates collagen production and helps to reduce fine lines/wrinkles and reduce dark circles to help renew that delicate area.  ................   How to Choose the Right SunblockAs we mentioned before people shy away from sunblock often because it doesn’t agree with their skin. However the problem isn’t sun protection in general, it may be that you’re choosing the wrong formula for your skin! Here is a guide based on skin type that can help you stay protected and beautiful.  Acne Prone/Oily Glytone Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 40 This oil free, fragrance free and mineral based sunscreen lotion is just what you need if you have sensitive oily or acne prone skin. This non-comedogenic formula has vitamin C to help keep skin firm and elastic, hydrated and soft, without oiliness. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid to help your skin hold on to the natural moisture that it has without clogging your pores the way a lot of sunscreen/moisturizers do.    Normal/Combination La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid You’ve probably heard of this well known sunscreen already but for good reason! Featured in Oprah Magazine, this sunscreen offers a soft matte finish and is never greasy so it works perfectly under makeup. It’s also boosted by antioxidants and is not only non-comedogenic but its also water resistant for longer-lasting protection. It also comes in a body version to give you all over protection for any situation. Sensitive DCL Antioxidant Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 If you have sensitive skin then sunscreen is often the last thing that you want to put on…but with this sunscreen you’re in luck! Formulated with non chemical sun-blocking agents, this quick drying mineral sunscreen offers a matte finish quick drying formula and is loaded with calming ingredients such as Chamomile and has skin loving ingredients such as Vitamin E and Argan Nut Oil to firm skin, improve elasticity and smooth out wrinkles.   All Skin Types NEOVA DNA Damage Control (Silc Sheer 2.0 Broad Spectrum SPF 40) This advanced sunscreen not only provides the benefits of antioxidants and powerful sun protection but it also has the added bonus of a skin-perfecting sheer tint that evens out skin tone. It can also help correct the signs of sun inflicted skin DNA damage over time and is oil free so it is safe for skin that is acne prone. ................   I am personally someone who struggles with problem skin so I must say discovering these products was a lifesaver…literally. Sun damage can be as minor as getting freckles, or it can be as severe as skin cancer. There are also a bunch of things in between such as premature sagging and wrinkles (one side of your face more severe than the other due to driving and one side of your face getting more rays than another) as well as hyper pigmentation and melasma for which the only for true reversal is laser treatments. So if you’re like me and DON’T want to spend thousands of dollars on getting an even skin tone I definitely recommend wearing sunscreen every day no matter what. Trust me...your skin will thank you.

The years you spend in college can be some of the most amazing, memorable, and stressful times in your life. To this day, some of my best memories have taken place on my college campus. From concerts to club events to late night food runs, my friends and I have had some incredible times. That being said, as the semester’s progress, it tends to get more and more stressful with the increasing course loads. Whenever I begin to get stressed, normally not even two weeks into the semester, I notice that my face starts to break out and dark circles begin to appear. That’s why I’ve added skincare products to my daily routine. Along with the makeup products I’d already been using, I’ve added moisturizers to help give my skin much-needed hydration. Now don’t get me wrong, I understand how difficult it is to get up for 8am classes in the first place but taking care of your skin will add no more than 2 minutes to your normal morning routine and the results are well worth it.   The skin care products that get me through my day are: Acure Oil Control Facial Moisturizer I had been looking for a moisturizer to keep my skin feeling hydrated and smooth all day and I finally found the right one! I use it every morning before heading out to class. My favorite thing about this moisturizer is that its fragrance free. Many other moisturizers I’ve tried have had a strong scent that would tend to be there all day which is why I find it better to get one without. Overall, this is definitely the best morning moisturizer you can use! La Roche-Posay’s Rosaliac CC Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 30 This redness-correcting crème has actually been a huge time saver to my morning routine. Not only does it reduce the effects of redness, it also doubles as a foundation by providing full coverage. Between not having to spend extra time applying foundation and reducing the redness in my face, this product is a win-win. CapriClear No matter the season, my hands always become dry and, until now, I hadn’t been able to find a hand moisturizer that wouldn’t leave my hands feeling greasy. CapriClear is now my go-to. I keep it in the front pocket of my backpack for when I need it in between classes, especially in the wintertime. Acure Night Cream Ending the night with the perfect moisturizer is just as important as starting the day with one. That’s why after trying the Acure Facial Moisturizer, I immediately tried the Acure Night Cream. This moisturizer keeps my face hydrated all night long and applies with ease. This product is definitely a must have if you have dry skin! Along with adding a few products to my routine, I’ve also begun to change some habits to lead a healthier lifestyle. Without going on any crazy diets, I’ve started to eat healthier, go to the gym, and make sure I get at least 8 hours sleep. It’s crazy to think that eating the wrong food or not getting enough sleep could cause your skin to break out. By just changing a few small things in my everyday life I look and feel better than ever.

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