askderm

top brands + expert advice = beautiful skin

[askderm]

Dermablend Intense Powder Camo Infographic!

Check out WHY the Dermablend Intense Powder Camo is such an instant hit! 

[askderm]

Clarisonic vs. FOREO Luna (by askderm101)

[askderm]

Enter for your chance to win the newest skin care cleansing AND anti-aging device to hit the market! The FOREO LUNA Pro - $299 Value. Simply Click "CONTEST" just below our cover page image on Facebook -or- Just click HERE: http://on.fb.me/17xJ6iS The LUNA Pro’s unique 4-zone cleansing brush is organically contoured, with a range of textures that suits any skin type. Experience results you can see: • Skin appears healthy, clear and luminous • Puffiness and dark circles are diminished • Skin’s texture is softened and refined • Wrinkles and expression lines are visibly lessened • Skin’s firmness and elasticity are improved

More on FOREO products: http://bit.ly/162Luck The Contest Details: Must "Like" the askderm Facebook page and include email and name. You may enter once a day for the duration of the contest. Contest is open Monday July 29th – Friday August 2nd. Once the winner is selected (on Friday August 2nd) they will be contacted via email.

[askderm]

Skin Pigmentation Issues

One of the most common skin complaints is that of hyperpigmentation. While we all dream of a doll-like Alabaster finish or a rich, even, mahogany glow, discoloration can impede on our ideals of perfection. Hyperpigmentation is an excess of pigmentation in the skin. Factors influence cells called melanocytes to produce pigment as a defense mechanism.

Some types of Hyperpigmentation include: Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is caused by an inflammatory response to a chemical or a physical irritant. It is most common in Asian, Black, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Skin types. This is because there is more pigmentation naturally occurring within the Skin. Over treatment of acne with products such as Benzoyl peroxide, aggressive exfoliation and acne or blemish extractions can all lead to hyperpigmentation. Hormonal Hyperpigmentation Our hormones influence all other body functions including those in the skin. This discoloration can be caused by birth control, hormonal therapies, pregnancy or menopause. The most common pigmentation alignment caused by hormones is melasma, also know as pregnancy mask and is characterized by splotchy dark patches across the face, usually not affecting the orbital around the eyes lending to the disorder's nickname. Sun Damage induced Hyperpigmentation Unprotected exposure to the sun's radiation can lead to melanocytes being so severely damaged that this immune response to darken can be permanently affected. UV induced discoloration includes; Solar lentigens (freckles), Chloasma (liver spots), and multiple forms of Mottling or grouping of various spots that create an overall pronounced patch. Sun induced hyperpigmentation most easily afflicts Caucasians, as it is more visible. How to Combat Hyperpigmentation: When dealing with hyperpigmentation, a two-part approach goes hand-in-hand. Treatment and prevention are equally important. Treatment There are many creams, lotions and serums to treat Hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone is the only FDA approved drug for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. It works by interfering with the production of melanocytes. It is available over the counter at a 2% concentration. There are many other topical products that help suppress melanin production or brighten the skin and these include: Kojic Acid, Arbutin, Vitamin C, Bearberry Extract, Azelaic Acid and Licorice Extract  Exfoliation also aids in the removal of these cells that lay on the top surface of the skin. When used properly Glycolic Acid or other AHAs, Salicylic Acid and Treitnoin (Vitamin A), sloth off the buildup of cells. Just use caution with exfoliation, especially physical exfoliants as they can worsen or be the root cause of discoloration.

Prevention All Hyperpigmentation no matter the initial cause will be worsened by sun exposure. A daily SPF of 30, reapplied often is necessary. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face. Limit your outdoor activities by avoiding the hours that the sun is the most dangerous (10am-4pm) and never use indoor tanning beds. Hopefully with this information you will be better prepared to pursue that desire for beautiful, even skin no matter your race or age.

Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetican 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]

Shop Osmotics to experience an intelligent choice for ageless beauty.

Osmotics is a "SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN TECHNOLOGY" product line - its written right on the box! With cutting edge technology that is proven through double blind studies in major medical centers you are sure to see results! As they say, "serious skincare for serious results". When you choose Osmotics you are purchasing not only an elegant product that has all the cosmetic bells and whistles, but it also has the purest, highest quality ingredients that will leave you feeling beautiful. A personal touch from the Founder, Francine Porter - "Less is more: Skin can easily be over treated (over cleansed, over moisturized, over exfoliated). Skin reacts most favorably to a simple regimen using a minimum number of products. Our system eliminates extremes and allows the skin to maintain a state of balance and health.

Only the Finest Ingredients in our Formulations: We use the highest quality and purest form of botanicals, antioxidants, vitamins and natural oils. We do not add artificial colors, fragrances, mineral oils or unnecessary additives. Anti-aging Cosmeceuticals/Cutting Edge Technology: Our anti-aging products incorporate the most advanced thinking and technology available. We utilize patented technologies from the biotech/medical field that have undergone independent clinical testing to provide you with clinically proven benefits. Results: We believe in the intelligence of our consumers. "Hope in a bottle" no longer applies. We do not promise miracles but we do promise RESULTS. Great skin can happen at any age, it is up to you."

More about what "SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN TECHNOLOGY" actually means. "Each Osmotics Cosemeceutical product is developed in concert with our distinguished panel of scientific advisors - internationally renowned dermatologists and anti aging clinicians." So basically, you can purchase Osmotics products with confidence and hope that you will create your own simplified anti-aging skincare regimen with results!   Four easy steps to remember for healthy and younger looking skin (this is truly for everyone - and a great rule of thumb for all skincare regimens):  Step 1 - Always cleanse your skin morning and night!   *Tip: Cleanse twice each time. First to remove makeup & second to cleanse the skin and get it prepared to absorb your treatment and moisturizing products. For a more effective cleanse try a cleansing device like the FOREO LUNA's or a Clarisonic Cleansing Device. 

Step 2 - Use a targeted treatment or correcting product for your biggest concern.  *Tip: Use a serum for deeper penetration. Pick your biggest concern like either, anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, dull complexion, acne or dry skin. Always allow product to fully absorb before applying your next step. Treatments should be used morning and night for optimal results unless otherwise noted in directions or by physician. 

Step 3 - Moisturize your skin, aka Defend. All skin types need to moisturize the skin to keep it healthy. This means even oily skin! Moisturizers now also include many anti-aging benefits like antioxidants or peptides to help fight free radicals and provide an instant plumping effect to the skin.  *Tip: For normal to dry skin use a heavier cream based moisturizer, while combination to oily skin should look for a lotion with key words such as "oil-free". Also, to get more out of your products look for buzz words such as: hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, ceramides, coconut oil, and DNA. 

Step 4 - Protect your skin from sun exposure and UVA and UVB rays. Apply SPF every morning while getting ready and do not forget to reapply as needed. It isn't stressed enough how important SPF truly is in your anti-aging regimen. Really, in every regimen! Protect yourself from not only damaging/aging rays - but why risk skin cancer.  *Tip: For everyday use (YES YEAR ROUND) use a SPF that is formulated specifically for the face. Then have your go to body SPF for outdoor activities. A lot of the facial SPF's have even more benefits that you may not realize.

Now that you are on skincare, product, & Osmotics overload, let us know if you have any further questions! We have a Customer Service Team that is full of expert advice and can help assist you with any product, skincare or order questions you may have.

top brands + expert advice = beautiful skin

Written by: Danielle Jones | Marketing Coordinator | askderm

[askderm]

Do you need help finding the fountain of youth? Well... here are some of the best anti-aging products we can't stop raving about: 

iS Clinical Youth Complex - That "INSTANT GRATIFICATION" go to anti-aging product that actually has science behind it and... get ready for this one... long term results as well! 

See results in about 1 hour 

Safe for everyone & perfect for ALL skin types

Firms, Tightens, Softens, & Smooths

Light Texture

  FOREO LUNA - For Sensitive to Normal Skin - This is not your average "Cleansing Device". This gizmo also has an anti-aging mode which helps to penetrate and deliver your other products deeper into the epidermis for even more effective results! No way! Your skin will not only feel more refreshed and cleansed - but the anti-aging mode actually massages your face relieving any tension you hold from the day! 

Use for 2 minutes AM & PM

Up to 8,000 pulsations per minute

Made of waterproof, gentle silicone touch points

Nonporous and resistant to bacteria

Mesoestetic Stem Cell Active Growth Factor - Bring the treatment room home with you! A new technologically advanced medical approach to anti-aging has been released for at home use! With powerful ingredients and science behind the product get ready to see amazing results and fall in love all over again with your skin care products!

Fortified with Stem Cells & Epidermal Growth Factors 

Formulated with the most powerful ingredients

Increase hydration & nutrition to reveal youthful skin

Repair & improve your skin

[askderm]

Trending Skincare and Cosmetics - BB & CC Creams

BB and CC creams went from American obscurity to prime time commercial breaks and at every makeup counter in the department store. The first Beauty Balm was developed in Germany and quickly gained popularity in the Asian market. While those of us in the skincare and beauty industry have known about these products for years, the craze did not hit America until about 2011. 

If you are in the search for a new product, just enjoy trying something new or are looking for a minimalist approach to your daily skin routine you may want to experiment with a BB or CC cream. They run the gamut when it comes to targeting specific concerns like acne, pigmentation, and maturing skin. Some are more lightweight in consistency and more reminiscent of a heavy tinted moisturizer, but much more often they have a whipped or mouse like constancy. Depending on your desired level of coverage you may like to use them alone or use as a primer, layered under your liquid or powdered foundation.     While there are some differences between brands the most common similarities between these balms and creams are in the ingredients, so when reading labels you may see these key words:

SPF, both physical sunscreens (titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide) and Chemical sunscreens (octinoxate)

A silicone derivative, which works as a primer and pore smoother

Light reflecting particles such as mica, to create a more radiant healthy skin glow

Antioxidants like Vitamin C to brighten and lighten skin, and vitamin E, which aids in skin healing and free radical damage

Moisture binders such as Hylaronic Acid

Licorice which fights pigment discoloration, lightens skin, aids in inflammation and is effective in fighting bacteria

Algae that thickens the product consistency and helps the skin retain moisture

Some BB and CC users may enjoy the product alone, but keep in mind that if you have specific skin issues such as very dry, dehydrated skin you may still need to use a daily moisturizer. Apply your moisturizer before using your beauty balm. If you have chosen a beauty balm that specifically targets acne, chances are it does not contain an SPF, as the FDA does not allow sun protection ingredients and acne fighting ingredients, such as salicylic acid to be combined in a single product, so you will still need to wear a daily sunscreen.     While some trends come and go in a single season, the Alphabetically squared trend seems to just be getting started and manufactures are sure to be moving their way down the alphabet when it comes to treating and protecting the skin.

Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetican 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]

Eyelash Care (by askderm101)

[askderm]

Antioxidants and Anti-Aging (by askderm101)

[askderm]

Clarisonic Overview by Chantal Monique (by askderm101)

[askderm]

FOREO Luna Demonstration (by askderm101)

[askderm]

The Foreo Luna is changing the view of skin cleansing devices. It is more effective than hand cleansing alone because it delivers 8,000 pulses per minute. The sonic technology improves circulation and cellular turnover. The full sized versions have the added feature of an anti-aging low frequency mode. This delivers transdermal frequencies to stimulate collagen and elastin and helps relax the muscles that hold tension from repeated facial expressions.   The device itself is lightweight and only needs to be charged about twice a year. Because the Luna is made with non-porous silicone and cannot harbor bacteria, the Luna is hygienic and can be easily approved of and recommended by Estheticians.

It is gentle enough to use twice a day. My routine and recommendation for using the Luna has its applications in both my morning cleanse, bedtime cleanse and afterward in my nighttime treatment routine.

Morning and night I use the Luna with a foaming cleanser. If you have very sensitive skin, I recommend using a cream cleanser. I concentrate on areas that need more exfoliation, like my nose and chin. When washing my neck and décolleté, I use the rippled wave, anti-aging side because there is less tugging on that delicate tissue.

One cleanse is enough but if it is a day you are feeling like you need the benefits of a second cleanse, feel free but if your skin is more sensitive, use that same anti- aging side used for the neck. After cleansing, the Luna’s anti-aging mode is great for penetrating serum and treatment products. This device is not just for your face. My biggest area of concern when it comes to sun damage is my hands. They receive the most exposure, whether it is driving to the askderm office, or going to and from locations and clientele. So I use my Luna on the anti-aging mode to help penetrate high antioxidant oil into the backs of each hand to help fight free radical damage at night. If you are looking to streamline your skin care routine, the Foreo Luna may be a good option.  The devise cleanses, exfoliates and addresses aging. Its’ cleanse is very effective. Many people find that they are too sensitized to the grit in facial scrubs. The Luna may help you limit yourself to one cleanser product rather than two as it does the exfoliating for you. When you have a deep and purifying cleanse then all your other products are more readily adsorbed into the skin and work better. So an initial investment may just save you money on treatments and products down the road.

Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetican 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]

So we all know the importance of wearing sunscreen for the prevention of cancer and premature aging, but there are a few tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of your products and keep you and your family safer. Remember the 20-1-2 rule. For sunscreen to be effective, it must first properly absorb into the skin, so apply it 20 minutes prior to exposure.  Most people do not apply enough product, so use a shot glass sized amount (One fluid ounce) when slathering up. Lastly, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours to ensure its effectiveness. If you are in water, then reapply every hour.     Sunscreen does expire. Most sunscreens do have an expiration date of three years stamped on the packaging.  If you are properly applying sunscreen as often as you should though, one bottle or tube should never ever last you the entire season. If at any time a sunscreen becomes separated, watery, chunky or the smell changes, throw it out. Properly store your Sunscreen. Sunscreen needs to be kept at room temperature to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the product. Never leave sunscreen in your car or in direct sunlight as high temperatures breakdown and destroy the formulation, making it less effective in protecting your skin. Keep your sunscreen with you, as you need to apply it often anyhow. Keep it in your beach bag and in the shade, or throw it in your cooler. Try Something New. Most people who avoid using sunscreen, say it is because they do not like the greasy or heavy feel of it. With new technologies and delivery systems there is a sunscreen for everyone. Spray sun protection is growing in popularity as it absorbs quickly and leaves little residue. Just make sure you are thorough in your application and always rub it in, even If the bottle says “No rub” and do not spray directly onto the face, rather spray it into your hands and apply with your fingertips. The cliché imagery of the lifeguard with the chalky white nose is also a thing of the past as formulations for physical sunscreen have advanced. Dry pressed or loose mineral sunscreens are light and can easily be used in conjunction with your makeup routine. Another advantage of physical sunscreens such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide is that they give immediate sun protection because they physically block and reflect UV rays. You can build your protection. A study conducted by the Department of Dermatology at the Bispebjerb Hospital in Copenhagen found that applying sunscreen three times daily built up enough product in the outer layers of skin to give a more prolonged protection factor. I recommend to my clients that a week before going on vacation to apply full body sunscreen morning, noon and just prior to going to bed. A “base” of sunscreen is safe, a “base tan” is not.

Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetican 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]

Shop askderm for all your skin care & beauty needs! www.askderm.com