Stephie Estie

Skin Tip: Exfoliate While Adding Hydration!

Using exfoliants that contain lactic acid not only help remove dull, flaky skin but in the long term, they also provide added moisturizing properties that makes this perfect to use in colder weather.  Always follow up with SPF and use them 2-3 times per week or as otherwise directed.

*Side note: If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll see I decided on purchasing the Real Techniques blush brush to replace my MAC one.  Thank you all so much for your help!  I appreciate all the suggestions! Be on the lookout for a review soon.

Have a safe and warm weekend and as always, I’m here for any questions you guys have. 🙂

Stephanie 

My Morning Skincare Routine!

Morning Skincare Routine

Hello readers!  It’s a lovely day here in sunny California which is always great but I’m feeling under the weather.  At the beginning of the year, I always manage to get sick and though I thought I had broken this spell, I’m sadly mistaken. 🙁  Anywho, I hope all of you are doing well.

I often get asked what my morning skincare routine so here it is.  Since I am often testing and trying new items, the product lines I use vary but the gist of my routine is the same.

1) Cleansing– Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel  I used this when I was in school and I really liked it so I pick one up every so often when I go to IDI (Dermalogica Headquarters).  It’s a basic, soap free cleansing solution that foams but doesn’t feel harsh.

2) Toning– Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner   Again, another product I used in school that I liked, I spritz this toner to wipe away any residue left after cleansing- you’d be surprised by what’s left behind after you cleanse!  It’s refreshing, doesn’t sting and has the humectant Sodium PCA.

3) Serum– Renee Rouleau Vitamin C & E Treatment I always make sure to incorporate a vitamin C serum in the morning.  It gives your skin antioxidants to fight free-radicals, results in a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, promotes the formation of collagen and can also reduce pigmentation due to its brightening properties.  (For more information on vitamin C, click here.)  Paired underneath sunscreen, it gives your skin extra antioxidant protection your skin needs from the sun’s harmful rays, which plays a prominent role in the breakdown of collagen.  This serum is one of the more hydrating vitamin C serums I have tried and I love the fact that it incorporates vitamin E, which nourishes the skin and enhances the effects of vitamin C.  (For more information on vitamin E, click here).  Apply to the face and extend to the neck and chest area.

4) Moisturizer/Sunscreen– Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 A staple in any skincare routine is sunscreen!  I’ve purchased this product several times because it combines moisturizer and sunscreen in 1- a true time  saver. It’s light-weight, works well underneath makeup and is formulated with antioxidant white tea.

5) Eye Cream– Renee Rouleau Total Eye Repair Cream  Using an eye cream is a must to hydrate the eye area, especially during the colder months, to minimize the appearance of wrinkles.  This one contains hyaluronic acid and firming peptides.  It does not irritate my eyes, which some eye creams tend to do, and absorbs quickly into skin leaving it moisturized without a heavy feel.  As for the firming effect, my eye area isn’t lax so I did not notice a difference in this aspect.

Disclaimer:  The Renee Rouleau products were recommended and given to me by Renee (thank you!), however, ALL reviews are based on my own honest opinions and experiences. 

I hope you found this helpful on how I keep my skin healthy and protected! 🙂

Have a great Tuesday,

Stephanie

 

Skin Tip: Why You Should Exfoliate During Winter!

Keeping a regular exfoliation routine, especially during winter, helps your products work more effectively- there’s no barrier of dead skin cells hindering a product’s effect -and in turn, can aid in the hydration of your skin.  Exfoliate about 2-3x per week.

Can you believe it’s Friday already?  My, how this week just seemed to zoom by, right?

Wishing you all a great weekend and remember, if you have any questions, feel free to ask me.

Stephanie

Could Your Skin Be Dehydrated Instead of Dry?

Hello readers!  🙂

We’re pretty much all familiar with the term dehydration.  Dehydration occurs when your body does not have as much water and fluids as it should but did you know that the same concept applies to your skin? If your skin has ever felt dry or taut, you may be experiencing dehydration.  It’s important to note that dehydration can occur on all skin types (yes, even oily).

The difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin is that dry skin lacks oil while dehydrated skin lacks water.  (To learn more about skin types click here)

Appearance

Dehydration can be characterized by:

  • a flaky appearance
  • feels tight and dry
  • very superficial fine lines

Causes

Skin that is dehydrated can be caused by:

  • lack of moisture
  • age
  • incorrect product use (harsh products such as soap and over-exfoliating)
  • diet (mainly fat-free diets)
  • climates (cold winds and low temperatures)
  • environment (heaters and air conditioners)
  • medications/medical conditions
  • excessive coffee and alcohol intake,
  • hormonal imbalances
  • UV exposure

Treatment 

Keep in mind all the possible causes and adjust accordingly.  (FYI: For dietary concerns ALWAYS consult a medical professional and/or registered dietitian before implementing any changes in your diet to verify there are no contraindications with certain medical conditions or medications.)

Also, maintaining a skin care routine appropriate for your skin type that includes humectants (water attracting ingredients) such as glycerin, sodium PCA, sorbitol and hyaluronic acid.

Click here for product recommendations, including those with oily skin.

I hope this information was helpful and as always if you have any questions/concerns, feel free to ask me. 🙂

Stephanie 

Disclaimer:  The contents on this website, and any related links, are provided for general informational purposes and should NOT be considered medical advice. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Please consult a healthcare provider if you have any questions about a particular health condition.  

 

Skin Tip: Adding Hydration to Oily Skin!

When you have oily skin that’s feeling a little bit dry and tight, switching to a heavier moisturizer results in hydration but at the same time can also make you breakout.  Mixing a few drops of a  hydrating serum formulated with hyaluronic acid into your moisturizer increases your skin’s water content (something all skin types can benefit from), adding moisture without the heaviness of an oil.

My favorite to use is Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Booster but brands like Kate Somerville, PCA Skin, Renee Rouleau and Dr. Dennis Gross carry similar products.

Thanks for tuning in and I’ll see you next week,

Stephanie 

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

Hi everyone!

It’s been a bit busy here on my side but I just wanted to take some time to wish you all a very Merry Christmas!  Enjoy this time with all your loved ones and thank you all so much for your support! 🙂

Stephanie 

Reader Question: How to Use a Vitamin C Serum!

question mark

 

Happy Wednesday everyone!

I had a question about how to use a vitamin C serum and that is such a great question.  I mean, how many times have you purchased a product that sounds like a great addition to your skincare arsenal and then realize you have no idea how to use it?  Happens to the best of us. 🙂

In a nutshell, the use of vitamin C results in a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, promotes the formation of collagen, protects the skin from UV damage and can also reduce pigmentation due to its brightening properties.  (For more information on vitamin C, click here.)  The best and most efficient way to use it is during the day underneath your moisturizer and sunscreen.  This will give you that extra antioxidant protection your skin needs from the sun’s harmful rays, which plays a prominent role in the breakdown of collagen.

I hope this helps!

Thanks for reading,

Stephanie 

 

 

 

Pumpkin: Skin Treat or Trick?

pumpkin

With the commence of fall in full gear and Halloween coming closer, pretty much everywhere we turn we are inundated with the sight of pumpkins and alluring scents of pumpkins laced with cinnamon and clove.  Similarly, around this time, spas often start to offer pumpkin peels.   Although yummy in pies and lattes, what makes pumpkins in skincare so special?

Enzymes!

Pumpkins contain enzymes that “eat” old, dry skin cells-think of them like a Pac-Man- revealing healthy, glowing skin. Pumpkins are rich in antioxidants vitamin C and notably vitamin A- the anti-aging superstar that minimizes fine lines and wrinkles. Pumpkins are also high in beta carotene, infusing skin with vital nutrients, and zinc which purportedly reduces the appearance of inflammation associated with breakouts.

A few brands that include pumpkin in their products are Eminence, Ayurmedic, June Jacobs and Murad.

Pumpkin Peels 

Most skincare facilities offer pumpkin peels which are often formulated with glycolic, lactic and/or salicylic acid that provide the following benefits:

  • Improves skin texture
  • Targets hyper-pigmentation and acne
  • Stimulates collagen and elastin production.
  • Helps with the cell renewal process.
  • Reduces signs of aging by softening fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hydrates the skin

Pumpkin peels are a great way to refresh your complexion right before the holidays not to mention they smell amazing!

Love pumpkin peels or have a favorite pumpkin product?  Do share your experience!  

Stephanie

Skin Tip: Irritated Skin

milk2

If you have a minor irritation/reaction to a product, using a cotton pad dipped in cold regular milk can soothe irritation and calm any redness. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and rinse. Make sure you aren’t allergic to dairy.

*If you have a major reaction, such as blistering or hives, contact your primary physician or dermatologist and follow their instructions; taking a Benadryl may help symptoms but again, ask your physician if it’s okay.

Until next week,

Stephanie