Ready to Take Better Care of Your Skin? Adopt This Healthy Routine
If you want to live a healthier, happier life, start by taking care of your body’s largest organ. Regular skin care can provide some substantial benefits that you can benefit from for the rest of your life — from preventing potentially-deadly skin cancer to minimizing wrinkles, dryness, and discoloration. Addressing these issues can prove far more expensive and difficult than simply avoiding them through preventative care.
So now that you’ve established your intentions to keep your skin as healthy as possible, the question remains: how exactly do you do that? Even after you’ve settled on your essential products and strategies, you might not need or want to administer every step of a skin care regimen every single day. Use the following suggestions as your guide for creating a convenient, effective routine.
Every Day: Clean Your Face Gently but Thoroughly
The most critical step in your skin care routine involves gentle, thorough cleansing. Most people should wash their skin twice a day, including individuals who have combination skin, wear makeup, perspire a lot, or produce excessive skin oil. If you have dry or sensitive skin, however, you should limit yourself to one (nighttime) cleansing.
Warm water will do a better job than cold water of rehydrating the skin and removing excess oil. Select a cleansing product optimized for your particular type of skin, such as an oil-free product for oily skin or an alcohol-free product for dry skin.
Every Day: Add a Toner or Moisturizer to Freshly-Washed Skin
Get into the habit of applying toner after every skin cleansing. Toner can help to normalize your skin’s pH balance, which may be necessary to counteract any imbalances produced by the cleanser. It also closes pores, moisturizes the skin, and helps prevent ingrown hairs.
If your toner doesn’t include a moisturizing component, you’ll also want to apply a separate moisturizer to your skin after a cleansing. Moisturizers can prevent dryness, redness, cracking, and other unsightly or uncomfortable skin issues.
Once a Week: Exfoliate to Clear Away Dead Skin
As a living tissue, the skin constantly creates new skin cells to replace old, dead ones. Unfortunately, these old skin cells don’t necessarily slough off on their own; sometimes they require a little help. Accumulations of dead skin cells can clog your pores, leading to acne breakouts. They can also reduce the amount of collagen your body produces, making you more vulnerable to fine lines and wrinkles over time. Exfoliating your skin once a week can make it look healthier and younger.
You’ll find a wide range of exfoliating products and tools out there, from loofahs and pumice stones to special cleansing scrubs and brushes. Try one of these products at a time until you find the one that does the best job for your specific needs. (Don’t then all at once!) Take care not to use a facial exfoliant as a body scrub, or vice versa. Our Smooth-Move Exfoliating & Hydrating Face Mask has papaya, cucumber and aloe vera, making it calming to the face while washing those dead skin cells away!
Unless you spend 100 percent of your time indoors, you’ll want to have a high-quality sunscreen standing by as part of your outdoor skin care routine. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause serious skin damage, from agonizing burns to malignant cancers. UV rays don’t just attack the skin during sunny days, either; under certain conditions, cloud cover can reflect UV energy toward the ground instead of filtering it.
Always choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, specifically blocking both UVA and UVB radiation. As for the SPF rating (which measures the degree to which the sunscreen blocks UV rays), you should select a product with a rating of at least 30 SPF. An SPF-30 sunscreen will protect you from 97 percent of surrounding UV rays. Assume that you’ll need to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or even more frequently if you swim or sweat. Carry a separate UV-blocking lip balm to protect the skin on your lips.
During the Summer: Go Oil-Free
UV radiation isn’t the only threat to your skin’s health as you hit the beach or enjoy other summertime activities. Warmer temperatures and higher humidity levels encourage the oil glands in the skin to work overtime. To combat this seasonal complication, you may need to switch to an oil-free toner or moisturizer. You might also consider a less oily sunscreen than you normally use, as long it provides sufficient UV protection.
During the Winter: Moisturize More
Winter may bring the opposite problem, causing your skin to become especially dry. Along with reduced oil production, your skin may suffer from dehydration due to the drier air (including the drying effects of your indoor climate control system). During these months, you may need to moisturize more frequently than usual (or start using a moisturizer made for dry skin, if you don’t use one the rest of the year).
As the Years Go By: Add Collagen Serums and Creams to Your Routine
Skin naturally changes its composition as it ages. One major change involves reduced production of collagen, the connective tissue that gives skin its elasticity. As a result, lines and wrinkles become deeper and more numerous. You may need to start cleansing and moisturizing more frequently and thoroughly to give your skin every chance to retain as much collagen as possible. You may need more moisturizer (as well as more water in your daily diet) to keep the skin looking plump and hydrated.
Your dermatologist may recommend creams or other topical products that contain retinoids. These products can reduce wrinkles and lines to some extent by boosting collagen production. Take care, however — retinoids can cause irritation and/or dryness, especially if you overdo it with them. Start with the minimal recommended amount to see how much of it your skin can tolerate.
Now that you have a skin care routine to suit everyday life, seasonal challenges, and age-related changes, you’re ready to enjoy a lifetime of healthier, more attractive skin. Go for it!
New Years Resolutions For Better Skin!
/in Uncategorized /by James Anthony SkincareA new year is upon us and many people start off the year with resolutions to improve their life. While some of these resolutions are quickly dropped and have a low likelihood of being successful, setting a skincare resolution is always beneficial. If you’re ready to improve the quality of your skin so you can enjoy a healthier, more youthful appearance, the following will help guide you along the right path.
Wear Sunscreen Daily
Too many people fall into the trap of only applying sunscreen when they’re heading out for a day at the beach or pool. However, the sun causes a lot of damage to the skin, most of it preventable. By making sunscreen a part of your daily routine, you will protect your skin and lower your risk of skin cancer in the future. This should be your last step in your morning skincare routine.
Use Moisturizer
Hydrated skin is healthy skin, but too few people actually use a moisturizer regularly. Using a quality moisturizer, like our Lightweight Replenishing A.M. Moisturizer – Vivify, ensures smoother skin and can help eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a more youthful appearance.
Use Proper Application Techniques
You may think there’s no wrong way to apply your skincare products, but the order in which you apply your products can have an impact on their effectiveness. In general, you should always start with the thinnest products and move toward the thickest.
Reduce Excessive Oil
If you have oily skin, you may think drying out your skin is the best way to alleviate the problem. However, this process will likely cause your skin to produce more oil. Instead, look for products that advertise oil control. These products won’t harm your skin’s protective barrier and will reduce oil while keeping your skin hydrated.
Stop Popping Pimples
No one wants to leave the pimples and other imperfections visible on their face, but popping them can lead to more problems for your skin. Instead of taking things into your own hands, let your skincare products do all the hard work. Look for products that work well with acne-prone skin. You may not see clear results early on in your skincare routine change, but don’t give up. Continue to use the products regularly and you’ll get the clearer skin you’ve always wanted without the hassle of popping your pimples.
Get Rid of Old Cosmetics
It can be painful to throw out cosmetics you spent good money on, but the truth is they do expire over time. While they may still look like they work properly, they’re more likely to clog your pores and cause other skin issues. Each cosmetic product you own should have a Period After Opening date marked with a PAO. If you have products you haven’t used in that timeframe, throw them out and start fresh.
Clean Makeup Brushes
Too many people use makeup brushes to apply cosmetics and then toss them back in their bag or a drawer. If you aren’t cleaning your makeup brushes regularly, now is the time to start. Wash all of your beauty tools at least once a week in warm, soapy water. Be sure to use a mild, scent-free soap.
Is Your Skin Drying Out This Winter? Here’s What to Do!
/in Uncategorized /by James Anthony SkincareAs the winter months begin to unfurl their cold banner, individuals struggling with dry skin will reach for their favorite heavy moisturizers. Dry skin during the winter is a problem for even those with the best skin, much less the individuals who struggle with the cold and dehydrating air. As the cold weather sets in and humidity levels begin to drop, moisture flees our skin, leaving cracking and splitting in their place.
We understand that dry skin can become cracked which can lead to harsh results, including flaking, cracking, and even bleeding in some instances. While we may accept winter as a yearly event, we don’t have to accept our dry and cracked skin. If you are tired of trying different moisturizers and are ready to find a solution for dealing with the harsh winter temperatures, keep on reading!
Winter Weather & Dry Skin: How Cold Weather Impacts Our Skin’s Health
Why does our skin seem to struggle so much during the winter months? Why do the inclusion of cold air and harsh wind leave us feeling raw, rubbed red, and in pain? While there are certainly genetic aspects involved in the moisture of our skin, environmental factors will always play a bigger part.
Dry skin develops as a result of low humidity levels pulling moisture from our skin and into the environment. As harsh winds blow through us, the problem can become infinitely worse. Not to mention the fact that sudden heat can lead to further deterioration. Individuals struggling with conditions like eczema might also see renewed struggles.
The combination attack of low humidity outside as well as dry and hot air inside is enough to make our skin suffer. So, how can we keep our skin healthy, glowing, hydrated, and smooth with cold weather still ahead?
Adapt Your Skin Care Routine For Colder Temperatures
As it turns out, the best way to treat dry skin is by preventing it altogether. By incorporating the appropriate skincare products into our daily beauty routine, we can ensure that our skin is hydrated, nourished, and brimming with radiance.
We have to be careful during the colder months when it comes to incorporating new products into our skincare line, as results may vary. For that reason, we’ve decided to highlight a few of the most tried-and-true hydrating products in the marketplace.
How to Avoid Dry Skin This Winter
While it is not possible to completely forego the winter weather and its associated impacts on our skin, there are a few key ways we can ensure our optimized skin health. Among the best ways to limit exposure to dry and cracked skin are the following:
With a little bit of knowledge and a revitalized skincare routine anchored by James Anthony Skincare, it is possible to enjoy the cold while keeping your skin calm!
Why You Need Peptides in Your Eye Cream
/in Uncategorized /by James Anthony SkincareThe skin around your eyes is the most sensitive and thinnest. When it comes to your routine anti-aging skin care regimen, eye serums and eye creams are a must-have in your arsenal. These eye care products have specific formulations to prevent and protect the skin around your eyes. These eye care products can prevent under-eye circles, crow’s feet, wrinkles, eye bags and fine lines. Eye care products incorporate a plethora of active ingredients in their composition. The main goal is to improve the signs of skin aging and to stop new ones from developing. While many eye products have mild ingredients, there are some folks who get rashes and other skin irritations from them. Peptides to the rescue. Eye creams and serums that have peptides are gentle on the skin. In contrast to retinol, peptides can prevent skin irritations from eye serums and eye creams. All around, peptides are mild and effective in maintaining the skin’s moisture level.
All About Peptides
Peptides are small amino acid chains that look like strands of collagen. Most commercially available peptides found in skincare products are synthetic. Peptides work as glue to keep together the strands of collagen. It’s the collagen fibers that ramp up skin rejuvenation and skin repair. Independent studies have shown that peptides do a number of good things. They improve the appearance of puffy eyes, improve skin firmness and lighten up those dark spots. Keep in mind that the studies done by manufacturers themselves is likely inconclusive and limited. But, independent studies are the proof in the pudding.
Peptides know if the skin needs to be repaired or restructured and stimulate collagen production accordingly. It sends a signal to the body to stimulate collagen production. Even though peptides can work magic on your skin, these little goodies need to be able to penetrate the skin. It’s the ingredients that are mixed with the peptides that make them easy for the skin to absorb.
Peptide Eye Creams
Peptides are marketing by different names, including neuropeptides, acetyl-hexpeptide-8 (AHA) and palmitoyl oligopeptide. Neuropeptides have been proven to improve skin texture, skin tone and skin firmness. AHA works on improving the skin around the eyes by smoothing the wrinkles out and improving collagen production. They help keep the skin moist and spongy. Palmitoyl oligopeptide is a compound that has a long peptide chain. It looks like a collagen strand. This peptide produces hyaluronic acid and collagen. It facilitates skin renewal and skin repair.
Continued use of the right peptide complex lightens the appearance of dark circles under the eyes and lessons fine lines and wrinkles. Your eye treatment should stimulate the skins daily repair via of bioactive peptide complex, which mimics cytokines produced during wound healing.
Tips on Picking the Right Peptide Eye Cream for Your Anti-aging Needs
Anti-aging eye creams and serums have ingredients to complement your skincare needs. Look for eye creams and serums that have antioxidants like Vitamin A,C, E and K. Keep in mind that a water-based eye cream is better than an oil-based one. And, if you’re unsure about what your skin needs, check in with a dermatologist. These professionals will do a complete skin evaluation and make sure you choose the best products to boost your skin’s health.
Check out our Cream de La Crème Peptide Complex Eye Cream! This is an age reversal regimen that firms and tightens delicate skin surrounding the eye area.
It will:
Peptides are the workhorses of your skincare routine. They help to repair, renew and strengthen both collagen and elastic. Just keep in mind that they do their work in time, but they do work. So, stick with it every day for the best results.
Makeup Primer 101: What Primer Does and Doesn’t Do For Your Beauty Routine.
/in Uncategorized /by James Anthony SkincareThe foundation of a beautiful makeup routine should start with a makeup primer. Makeup primer is the base of all great beauty looks, even before you apply your actual foundation. Makeup primer effectively works to prepare your skin for the makeup that you are about to apply, allowing you to cultivate a finish that is dewy, matte, luminous, or evenly textured. If you have never used a makeup primer before, you have come to the right place to learn more.
Traditionally, makeup primer will take one of many different forms. Listed below, you’ll find a small sampling of the styles of makeup primer commonly available.
Let’s take a closer look at makeup primer, what it is, and how to use it properly within your beauty routine.
Common Reasons to Wear Makeup Primer
Makeup primer can and should be your best friend, at least if you want to create a makeup routine that is at once effective and aesthetically pleasing! A skincare primer offers a variety of immediate benefits when applied before your foundation. Here are a few direct and targeted benefits that regular use of makeup primers can lead to.
Advantages: Longer-lasting makeup that wears well and degrades slowly.
Advantages: Smoother skin tone at your fingertips.
Advantages: Enhance other aspects of your makeup routine through a makeup primer,
making your entire look last longer as a result.
As you can see, makeup primer can contribute to a variety of beneficial aspects when it comes to applying your makeup. Whether you want a longer-lasting finish or a makeup routine that lets you look your best, keep the right primer nearby to get the job done right!
Is Your Mask Causing You to Break Out? Here’s How to Fight Maskne!
/in News /by James Anthony SkincareFor many of us, wearing a mask or other face-covering has unfortunately become a part of everyday life. Aside from being uncomfortable, wearing a mask for prolonged periods of time can also irritate your skin and may even lead to the dreaded mask acne (also known as “maskne”). By having a better understanding of what causes maskne and how to combat it, you can achieve clearer skin—even if you spend the majority of your day in a face covering.
What Causes Maskne, Anyway?
There is a specific type of acne that is actually caused or exacerbated by friction or pressure on the skin, which is exactly what can happen when you wear a mask for extended periods of time. This type of acne is known by the scientific name of acne mechanica.
When you wear a mask, especially in humid and/or hot conditions, sweat and bacteria can build up on your skin and cause pores to become clogged. Over time, this can result in the appearance of pimples or small cysts on the skin. Even in cooler conditions, when your skin tends to be drier, friction from your mask rubbing up against your face can cause hair follicles to break. This, in turn, allows bacteria to more readily enter the skin and cause acne.
What Can You Do About Maskne?
As frustrating as it can be to experience maskne, the good news is that there are steps you can take to minimize its appearance and achieve clearer skin.
First and foremost, make sure the mask you’re wearing is clean. Swapping out disposable masks at least once every couple of days (or more, depending on how often you’re wearing it) is the best way to keep your skin free of acne-causing bacteria. If you wear a reusable mask, make sure you’re taking the time to wash it regularly. Ideally, you’ll want to stick to a clean-and-free detergent to reduce the risk of allergic reaction or skin irritation.
Now is also a good time to update your skincare routine. Get into the habit of washing your face before you put your mask on and after you remove it. This is a great way to get rid of bacteria that would otherwise make its way into your pores and cause acne. Just be sure to stick to a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin of the natural oils it needs to stay healthy.
Exfoliation is also your friend when you’re wearing a mask regularly. There are plenty of exfoliating masks like our Smooth Move Mask that is gentle and will clean out your pores without drying out your skin. Exfoliating even once a week can make a big difference in the appearance and health of your skin. Just be sure to follow up with a great moisturizer.
Speaking of moisture, staying properly hydrated not only works wonders for your skin, but will keep you feeling your best while you’re out and about with your mask on. Aim to consume at least half your body weight in ounces of water each day. This means if you weigh 150 pounds, your goal should be to drink at least 75 ounces of water a day.
The Bottom Line on Maskne
Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem as though mask-wearing will be disappearing from our daily routines anytime soon. The good news, though, is that with the right skincare routine and mask-wearing habits, you can protect your skin from that dreaded maskne!
What Do You Need in a Skin Care Routine?
/in News /by James Anthony SkincareReady to Take Better Care of Your Skin? Adopt This Healthy Routine
If you want to live a healthier, happier life, start by taking care of your body’s largest organ. Regular skin care can provide some substantial benefits that you can benefit from for the rest of your life — from preventing potentially-deadly skin cancer to minimizing wrinkles, dryness, and discoloration. Addressing these issues can prove far more expensive and difficult than simply avoiding them through preventative care.
So now that you’ve established your intentions to keep your skin as healthy as possible, the question remains: how exactly do you do that? Even after you’ve settled on your essential products and strategies, you might not need or want to administer every step of a skin care regimen every single day. Use the following suggestions as your guide for creating a convenient, effective routine.
Every Day: Clean Your Face Gently but Thoroughly
The most critical step in your skin care routine involves gentle, thorough cleansing. Most people should wash their skin twice a day, including individuals who have combination skin, wear makeup, perspire a lot, or produce excessive skin oil. If you have dry or sensitive skin, however, you should limit yourself to one (nighttime) cleansing.
Warm water will do a better job than cold water of rehydrating the skin and removing excess oil. Select a cleansing product optimized for your particular type of skin, such as an oil-free product for oily skin or an alcohol-free product for dry skin.
Every Day: Add a Toner or Moisturizer to Freshly-Washed Skin
Get into the habit of applying toner after every skin cleansing. Toner can help to normalize your skin’s pH balance, which may be necessary to counteract any imbalances produced by the cleanser. It also closes pores, moisturizes the skin, and helps prevent ingrown hairs.
If your toner doesn’t include a moisturizing component, you’ll also want to apply a separate moisturizer to your skin after a cleansing. Moisturizers can prevent dryness, redness, cracking, and other unsightly or uncomfortable skin issues.
Once a Week: Exfoliate to Clear Away Dead Skin
As a living tissue, the skin constantly creates new skin cells to replace old, dead ones. Unfortunately, these old skin cells don’t necessarily slough off on their own; sometimes they require a little help. Accumulations of dead skin cells can clog your pores, leading to acne breakouts. They can also reduce the amount of collagen your body produces, making you more vulnerable to fine lines and wrinkles over time. Exfoliating your skin once a week can make it look healthier and younger.
You’ll find a wide range of exfoliating products and tools out there, from loofahs and pumice stones to special cleansing scrubs and brushes. Try one of these products at a time until you find the one that does the best job for your specific needs. (Don’t then all at once!) Take care not to use a facial exfoliant as a body scrub, or vice versa. Our Smooth-Move Exfoliating & Hydrating Face Mask has papaya, cucumber and aloe vera, making it calming to the face while washing those dead skin cells away!
Whenever You Go Outdoors: Use a UV-Blocking Sunscreen
Unless you spend 100 percent of your time indoors, you’ll want to have a high-quality sunscreen standing by as part of your outdoor skin care routine. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause serious skin damage, from agonizing burns to malignant cancers. UV rays don’t just attack the skin during sunny days, either; under certain conditions, cloud cover can reflect UV energy toward the ground instead of filtering it.
Always choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, specifically blocking both UVA and UVB radiation. As for the SPF rating (which measures the degree to which the sunscreen blocks UV rays), you should select a product with a rating of at least 30 SPF. An SPF-30 sunscreen will protect you from 97 percent of surrounding UV rays. Assume that you’ll need to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or even more frequently if you swim or sweat. Carry a separate UV-blocking lip balm to protect the skin on your lips.
During the Summer: Go Oil-Free
UV radiation isn’t the only threat to your skin’s health as you hit the beach or enjoy other summertime activities. Warmer temperatures and higher humidity levels encourage the oil glands in the skin to work overtime. To combat this seasonal complication, you may need to switch to an oil-free toner or moisturizer. You might also consider a less oily sunscreen than you normally use, as long it provides sufficient UV protection.
During the Winter: Moisturize More
Winter may bring the opposite problem, causing your skin to become especially dry. Along with reduced oil production, your skin may suffer from dehydration due to the drier air (including the drying effects of your indoor climate control system). During these months, you may need to moisturize more frequently than usual (or start using a moisturizer made for dry skin, if you don’t use one the rest of the year).
As the Years Go By: Add Collagen Serums and Creams to Your Routine
Skin naturally changes its composition as it ages. One major change involves reduced production of collagen, the connective tissue that gives skin its elasticity. As a result, lines and wrinkles become deeper and more numerous. You may need to start cleansing and moisturizing more frequently and thoroughly to give your skin every chance to retain as much collagen as possible. You may need more moisturizer (as well as more water in your daily diet) to keep the skin looking plump and hydrated.
Your dermatologist may recommend creams or other topical products that contain retinoids. These products can reduce wrinkles and lines to some extent by boosting collagen production. Take care, however — retinoids can cause irritation and/or dryness, especially if you overdo it with them. Start with the minimal recommended amount to see how much of it your skin can tolerate.
Now that you have a skin care routine to suit everyday life, seasonal challenges, and age-related changes, you’re ready to enjoy a lifetime of healthier, more attractive skin. Go for it!
12 Ingredients to Avoid When Shopping for Skincare Products
/in Uncategorized /by James Anthony SkincareSome call them “the dirty dozen,” while others opt for “the toxic 12.” No matter what you call them, there are 12 specific ingredients that should not be in any of your beauty or skincare products. Despite this, many of them were once common in everyday skincare regimens and may even still appear in a wide range of personal care items.
Our skin is one of the most important and largest organs of our body, performing numerous vital functions. It only makes sense that we should be incredibly conscious of what we put on it! Did you know our skin absorbs up to 60% of what we put on it?! If you care about your skin and your health, take the time to familiarize yourself with the ingredients before you buy.
Here are the 12 ingredients you should try to avoid when shopping for skincare products:
1. Ethanolamines
Commonly seen in the form of MEA (Monoethanolamine), DEA (diethanolamine) and TEA (triethanolamine), ethanolamines are essentially chemical amino acids that can irritate the blood vessels and even cause genetic damage that leads to cancer. They are often found in facial cleansers and soaps, shampoos, fragrances, sunscreens, eye makeup (mascara, eyeliner, eye shadow, etc.), and more.
2. Mineral Oil
Made from processed petroleum, the mineral oil you see in a lot of cosmetics comes in both safe and unsafe forms. Mineral oil can be dangerous when not highly purified or refined (especially common in cheaper ointments and lotions) because it can clog pores and trap toxins that would otherwise be shed by the skin.
3. Aluminum
Aluminum is a metal that can have toxic effects on the endocrine system. Sadly, aluminum is still commonly found in anti-perspirant deodorants and other common personal care products. Try exploring natural deodorants and ones without the anti-perspirant label.
4. Parabens
Parabens are a group of chemicals that have been commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics for the past 100 years. But they have come under scrutiny in recent years because of their ability to cause hormonal imbalances and contribute to certain illnesses. The tricky thing about parabens is that they’re often not labeled, but the good news is that an increasing amount of products are now being listed as “Paraben Free.”
5. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are chemicals that have historically been used in cosmetics for the same reason that morticians use them on cadavers — they preserve substances that would otherwise break down. This gives your skincare products a longer shelf life, but unfortunately it can lead to allergic reactions and even certain cancers.
6. Phthalates
Sometimes called “plasticizers”, Phthalates are used in items like fragrances and haircare products to increase flexibility while maintaining strength. However, they are also known to cause damage to internal organs. Phthalates are often not listed among ingredients, but look for products specially marked as “Phthalate Free.”
7. Triclosan
Triclosan is an antifungal and antibacterial agent that is still commonly added to a whole string of soaps and personal care products (like toothpaste and mouthwash) for its germ-killing abilities. The trouble is, it has also been linked to cancer and thyroid issues.
8. Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Also known as Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate or simply SLES, this ingredient is considered a cheap way to make personal care products foam or lather up. However, it is controversial because it can easily be contaminated with 1,4-Dioxane, a highly carcinogenic chemical.
9. Polyethylene Glycol
Polyethylene glycol or PEG is a polyether compound that has many uses, including industrial, medicinal and personal care (lotions, personal lubricants, toothpaste and more). However, it is troubling for skin use because it can reduce your skin’s natural moisture and can also cause severe allergic reactions in some people. You may sometimes see PEG written out as polyethylene oxide or polyoxyethylene.
10. Propylene Glycol & Butylene Glycol
These two chemical compounds are very similar in structure (Butylene Glycol contains 4 carbon atoms as opposed to Propylene Glycol’s 3), and they are also common ingredients in skin and hair moisturizers. While more research is needed on the health risks, both compounds are derived from petroleum and have been known to cause irritation in larger quantities.
11. Cyclotetrasiloxane
This is a silicon-based moisturizer and softener that is used in a variety of personal care products, particularly hair conditioners. While it is largely considered safe in small quantities, a study in 2008 suggested that long-term exposure (such as washing with it regularly for years) can be toxic to humans and pose various health risks.
12. Synthetic Fragrances
The chemical makeup of synthetic fragrances (commonly found in perfumes and lotions) varies greatly, but two of the biggest common denominators are petroleum and benzene derivatives. Both of these are carcinogenic and can cause cancer and central nervous system disorders, among other health issues. Always go for natural fragrances.
Are Natural Skincare Products Really Better?
/in Uncategorized /by James Anthony SkincareToday so much time is spent on what we put into our bodies in terms of our diet. However, not enough time is spent on the products we are putting on our skin. It is just as important to consider the types of products you are putting in your bathroom as you do for the ingredients in your fridge. Below we will review some top benefits of using natural products in your skincare routine instead of products containing chemicals.
It lowers the risk of chemicals penetrating your skin
The skin acts as a barrier and prevents chemicals from getting inside your body. Although your skin does a reasonably good job of preventing chemicals from entering your bloodstream, there is a chance that some substances can get through. By using natural skincare products, you can rest easy; there are no chemicals in the products that could enter your bloodstream.
Natural skincare products are non-toxic
The ingredients in skincare products that are not natural contain man-made chemicals. Many of these chemicals can be harmful to your health and is an important reason to use natural skincare products instead. For example, parabens are chemicals in products that help increase the shelf life of these products. Parabens in the body can act like estrogen and increased levels of estrogen in the body have shown to lead to increased rates of cancer.
Natural skincare products are less harmful to the environment
There are so many non-natural skin products out there, such as shampoo and body washes that are harmful to the environment because they contain sulfates. Sulfates are made using petroleum which is one of the leading causes of greenhouse gases. Also, these sulfates are going from our sinks and our showers directly into our rivers and oceans, which is taking its toll on marine life and even can end up in the drinking water. Natural products contain no sulfates.
Natural skincare products are not cruel to animals
Skincare products that contain chemicals are often tested on animals, which can cause the animals a great deal of pain and suffering. There are many products out there that contain chemicals and claim not to test on animals. It is essential to realize that while the product itself was not tested on animals, the chemical ingredients that make up the products certainly were. The only way to know your skincare products are not hurting animals is to make sure they are chemical-free.
Natural products are gentler on the skin
Skincare products that contain chemicals can cause rashes, redness, and irritation. Natural products do not irritate the skin and will leave your skin feeling healthy and luxurious.
10 Benefits of Dermarollers
/in Uncategorized /by James Anthony SkincareAlmost everyone has a skin condition. From mild to severe, there is always something someone doesn’t like about their complexion. But those days are now over thanks to dermarolling.
Dermarolling is a technique that uses microneedling, also known as skin needling, to puncture the skin in oder to produce collagen and elastin, the magical proteins that make your skin smooth, soft, glowing, and youthful. The technique is relatively painless, almost gentle, and produces astounding results. Read on to learn about the top ten benefits of using dermarollers as part of your beauty regimen.
1. Prevent Skin Aging
Dermarolling is used to keep your skin looking young. In fact, it stops premature aging just like the fabled fountain of youth. What’s even better is that dermarolling works with other anti-aging products to make them twice as effective.
2. Decrease Pore Size
Large pores collect more dirt and debris, which leads to blemishes, pimples, and blackheads. When you use dermarolling with a trained professional or at home, your skin will become firmer, thus reducing the size of your pores and overall improving your complexion.
3. Treat Wrinkles and Fine Lines
More collagen and elastin helps to reverse the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
4. Treat and Prevent Acne
If you’re prone to acne breakouts, dermarolling can help by magnifying your other acne treatments, especially topical one. It is not advised to use the needles directly on the affected area, however, as this can cause permanent damage.
5. Treat Facial Scars
Make scars on the face less visible with dermarolllers. The needles will break down the skin’s old scar tissue and produce new skin to cover the old scar.
6. Treat Hair Loss
Trying to grow in a full beard or mustache? Dermarollers can be used to reactivate the hair follicle, which in turn promotes hair growth. The hair will also grow back stronger and thicker. When you use dermarollers with other hair loss treatments, the results are even better.
7. Treat Hyperpigmentation
This is a condition that affects people with darker skin. Some areas of the face may produce an abnormal amount of melatin, leaving the skin’s color tone uneven. Dermarollers shed the top layer of skin to help even out the tone.
8. Treat Aging Spots
Just like hyperpigmentation, age spots can be reduced by using a dermaroller to shed the skin’s top layer.
9. Treat Rosacea
This skin condition typically affects the nose and cheek areas. It is caused by a breakdown in collagen that results in redness and bumps. With dermarollers, however, rosacea can be treated to improve the skin condition.
10. You Can Dermaroll at Home
You can use dermarolling at a spa or in the comfort of your own home, which makes it super convenient. And it’s affordable! If the thought of having to schedule dermarolling sessions within your already busy schedule, then making this an at-home beauty task will save you both time and money. There are many dermarollers on the market, but it’s important to purchase the right one to get the best results. The last thing you want is to be disappointed about the process just because you bought the wrong product. In that case, you may give up dermarolling entirely and miss out on having the complexion you’ve always dreamed about.
With so many benefits to dermarolling, how can you not want to take advantage of this revolutionary way to improve almost any skin condition? We offer the best dermaroller for at-home use. Our dermaroller has 540 medical grade stainless steel microneedles (size .5mm) to stimulate both the elastin and collagen in your skin and give you back the face you were born with.
5 Remedies to Help Soothe Irritated Skin
/in Uncategorized /by James Anthony SkincareIrritated skin is not just annoying and inconvenient; it’s uncomfortable. Even those who are blessed with great skin often suffer periods of redness, dryness and acne. Irritated skin is caused by a wide variety of factors: from exposure to new fabrics and beauty products to changes in weather and even traveling to new climates and altitudes (a person who lives at sea level on the East Coast, for example, will often find that their skin reacts differently to the drier, thinner air in the Rocky Mountains).
Here are five remedies that anyone can use right from home!
1. Ditch the Chemicals
Ironically, a lot of people suffer from irritated skin because of the chemicals in the products they are using to make themselves beautiful in the first place. Sensitive skin is surprisingly common, as are conditions like rosacea that make skin extra-prone to irritation. Using topical creams, powders, and makeup in general can cause irritation and lengthen flare-ups.
Fortunately, ceasing use of products with harsh chemicals will help, as will switching to more natural makeups intended for sensitive skin. Using a natural honey mask from time to time will also help, as honey contains natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
2. Hydrate
There’s not much that’s more important to skin than water. Whenever you notice any type of dryness or other skin irritation, the first thing you should do is drink a big glass of water. Making sure you get enough water each day will not only help ease skin problems, but it can help prevent them entirely.
It’s also worth noting that drinking plenty of water helps to flush out toxins and other harmful substances from the body. While irritating skin conditions are caused by a wide variety of things, toxins, microbes and bacteria are among some of the leading causes.
3. Get Your Sweat On
While many people believe sweating to be a main cause of irritation, the truth is that it is actually very good for skin! This is because sweat actually serves to not just help keep skin moistened, but also to flush out harmful substances. Additionally, exercise in general has been shown to help keep the body in better condition overall, including when it comes to skin wellness.
Just be sure to clean skin properly after each workout. Using a gentle cleanser and exfoliant will help remove sweat and dead skin cells, leaving fresh, beautiful skin. And just to reiterate the previous tip, be sure to drink plenty of water both before, during and after each workout to make sure you are staying hydrated.
4. Get Enough Sleep
Not getting enough sleep can manifest itself in so many ways, including irritated skin (especially when it comes to acne breakouts). Try to go to bed at the same time every night and get between seven and eight hours of sleep. As a bonus tip, consider switching to silk sheets. Not only do they feel amazing, but they’ve actually been shown to be a lot more friendly to your skin! Be sure to wash all sheets with a gentle detergent on a regular basis.
5. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
This should come as a no-brainer since “you are what you eat”, but it’s worth stating nonetheless. Consuming greasy foods and meals of poor nutritional value has been shown to lead swiftly to breakouts and other uncomfortable skin conditions. Meanwhile, following a well-balanced diet with plenty of vitamins has been shown to improve skin health and even delay the effects of aging.
More specifically, some great foods for skin are super greens like kale and romaine, avocado, coconut and papaya. These vitamin-rich foods are also filled with the healthy kinds of fats, which reinforce skin and help keep it healthy.
It’s important to keep in mind that when skin is flaring up with irritation, it’s trying to say something. Whether it’s reacting to chemical products or the weather, irritated skin indicates that it’s time to make a change. Use these remedies to give irritated skin the treatment it deserves, and start feeling relief in no time.