Showing posts with label skin care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skin care. Show all posts
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is comprised of intense wavelengths that are naked to the human eye. These wavelengths, which come in the form of UVA and UVB rays, both play a large role in premature aging, eye damage, and the development of skin cancers. Although both can pose harm, it’s important to decipher the differences between UVA and UVB rays.
You’ll likely expose yourself to a large amount of UVA rays during your life. They are present during all daylight hours and can even penetrate through clouds and glass. UVA rays infiltrate deeper into the skin and are a huge contributor to premature aging.
On the other hand, UVB rays are less invasive and are responsible for sunburns and tans. However, they play a significant role in the development of skin cancer. These cause year-round damage and intensify at higher altitudes.
Although you can’t see UV rays, you certainly can see their damaging effects. Here are a few ways the sun poses harm to your health, and what you can do to reverse and prevent it:
Sunburns // You’ve probably experienced a sunburn at some point in your life, but do you know how a sunburn actually affects your skin? While sunburns fade into a darker complexion over time, they can accumulate and cause long-lasting harm to your skin. As the sun penetrates your unprotected skin, it damages the skin’s cells and can even cause DNA mutation. Your sunburn will eventually heal, but a portion of the remaining cells may escape repair and remain mutated.
Age Spots // Dark, patchy spots can develop on the skin as the result of sun exposure. These pigmentations typically develop due to accumulated exposure over the years and are more apparent as you age. Although these are signs of sun damage, they don’t typically pose harm to your health. Age spots are commonly found on the back of the hands, shoulders, face, and back.
Acne Hyperpigmentation // Many who experience acne are under the impression that the sun can cure acne, as breakouts typically clear up after repeated exposure. However, the sun only temporarily “heals” acne. Sun exposure doesn’t actually cure acne but instead dries out the skin, making any active acne dry out as well. While the sun dries out your skin, it also contributes to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by stimulating melanin production. This means that, although it may seem that the sun is clearing your acne, it’s leaving you with marks to remember them by.
Wrinkles // Sun overexposure can disrupt the health of your skin and exacerbate signs of premature aging. It can dehydrate the skin and inhibit collagen production. Collagen is essential in maintaining the elasticity and firmness of your skin. Over time, you may notice the development of sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Dry, Faded Hair // Don’t let those sun-kissed highlights fool you into thinking the sun is making your hair better. Contrarily, this can be a sign that the sun is taking a toll on your hair. Damage can be seen through dry, faded, and frizzy hair. Additionally, if you notice that your hair is shedding more than normal, this can also be a tell-tale sign that your hair has endured sun damage.
Cataracts // When exposed to light, a majority of UV rays penetrates the eye through its lens, damaging the eye. Eventually, this can lead to the development of cataracts. When this happens, the lens may become red, irritated, cloudy, and can even lead to vision loss.
How to Reverse Signs of Damage: Although it’s impossible to reverse all signs of sun damage, there are a few essential ingredients you can introduce to your routine to help. Here are a few things you can add to your daily regimen:
You’ll likely expose yourself to a large amount of UVA rays during your life. They are present during all daylight hours and can even penetrate through clouds and glass. UVA rays infiltrate deeper into the skin and are a huge contributor to premature aging.
On the other hand, UVB rays are less invasive and are responsible for sunburns and tans. However, they play a significant role in the development of skin cancer. These cause year-round damage and intensify at higher altitudes.
Although you can’t see UV rays, you certainly can see their damaging effects. Here are a few ways the sun poses harm to your health, and what you can do to reverse and prevent it:
Sunburns // You’ve probably experienced a sunburn at some point in your life, but do you know how a sunburn actually affects your skin? While sunburns fade into a darker complexion over time, they can accumulate and cause long-lasting harm to your skin. As the sun penetrates your unprotected skin, it damages the skin’s cells and can even cause DNA mutation. Your sunburn will eventually heal, but a portion of the remaining cells may escape repair and remain mutated.
Age Spots // Dark, patchy spots can develop on the skin as the result of sun exposure. These pigmentations typically develop due to accumulated exposure over the years and are more apparent as you age. Although these are signs of sun damage, they don’t typically pose harm to your health. Age spots are commonly found on the back of the hands, shoulders, face, and back.
Acne Hyperpigmentation // Many who experience acne are under the impression that the sun can cure acne, as breakouts typically clear up after repeated exposure. However, the sun only temporarily “heals” acne. Sun exposure doesn’t actually cure acne but instead dries out the skin, making any active acne dry out as well. While the sun dries out your skin, it also contributes to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by stimulating melanin production. This means that, although it may seem that the sun is clearing your acne, it’s leaving you with marks to remember them by.
Wrinkles // Sun overexposure can disrupt the health of your skin and exacerbate signs of premature aging. It can dehydrate the skin and inhibit collagen production. Collagen is essential in maintaining the elasticity and firmness of your skin. Over time, you may notice the development of sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Dry, Faded Hair // Don’t let those sun-kissed highlights fool you into thinking the sun is making your hair better. Contrarily, this can be a sign that the sun is taking a toll on your hair. Damage can be seen through dry, faded, and frizzy hair. Additionally, if you notice that your hair is shedding more than normal, this can also be a tell-tale sign that your hair has endured sun damage.
Cataracts // When exposed to light, a majority of UV rays penetrates the eye through its lens, damaging the eye. Eventually, this can lead to the development of cataracts. When this happens, the lens may become red, irritated, cloudy, and can even lead to vision loss.
How to Reverse Signs of Damage: Although it’s impossible to reverse all signs of sun damage, there are a few essential ingredients you can introduce to your routine to help. Here are a few things you can add to your daily regimen:
- Retinol - A great way to boost collagen production and reduce acne breakouts is by using skin-care products that contain prescription-strength retinol. These stimulate cell turnover, which allows your skin to shed its outer layers to reveal smoother, more radiant skin. If you plan to use or are currently using a retinol treatment, be sure to only use it in your nighttime routine as it can cause sun sensitivity if worn during the day.
- Azelaic Acid - This ingredient is essential for reversing signs of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) caused by acne. It not only reduces inflammation but also speeds up cell turnover. The only catch with this ingredient is you won’t find it in stores as it needs to be prescribed by a healthcare professional.
- Vitamin C - The skin needs antioxidants in order to fight off free radicals from sun exposure. It helps protect your skin from damage while simultaneously brightening your complexion. Vitamin C can be found in many forms including serums, sprays, and creams.
- Plant Oil Mask - For dry and damaged locks, try using a hair mask that contains plant oils for intense hydration and repair against sun damage. Coconut, tamanu, and sunflower seed extract are all great ingredients for after-sun hair care.
- Use Sunscreen Daily: Sunscreen is a necessity in order to protect your overall health. For optimal protection, you should apply it multiple times throughout the day. You should also use it every day since UVA rays can penetrate the skin even on overcast days. Check each label when searching for sunscreen and make sure it offers broad-spectrum protection, which protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. If you’re concerned about sunscreen worsening breakouts, don’t worry. There are certain sunscreens specifically formulated for acne-prone skin.
- Wear UV Protective Clothing: To ensure you’re fully protected from the UV rays’ harmful effects, try using UV protective clothing and accessories. You can choose clothing that contains UV protection within the fabric to assert safety. A tip to see if your clothing will protect you is by holding it up to the light; if you see light shining through, your skin will be exposed to the sun even underneath the clothing. Additionally, to prevent eye and hair damage, always wear UV-blocking sunglasses when outside and a floppy hat to protect your hair and any exposed skin.
- Reference the UV Index: The UV index is a scale that signifies the strength and risk factor of the sun’s rays. When learning how to read a UV scale, it’s important to note that any rating over a level 5 index means that it’s especially dangerous to be outside. During these instances, be sure to stay inside or in the shade as much as possible. The index is typically at its highest between 10am and 4pm, so on high index days, it’s a good idea to only spend time outside in the morning or evening.
Happy Friday! We made it through the week, hallelujah!
I've been pretty vocal about that fact that pregnancy hasn't done my skin a ton of favors. Let's be blunt, pregnancy has killed my skin. The "glow" I got was mid-summer sweat and I found myself breaking out more than I anticipated.
At the very beginning of my pregnancy. I turned to my BFF to help me with some tips. I got a new cleanser, day cream and started using Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Within days. I saw a change, but I knew I needed a little more help.
I needed a little bit more targeted help. Overall, I was seeing a change in my skin, but knew I needed to jump in a little more.
I met Tom, the owner of Trust Beauty and was amazed by his product. I started religiously using the night cream and the enzyme mask and I swear by the results. My face is so much clearer and I finally have that pregnancy glow. I've been using the Commit Night Cream and the Honor Enzyme Mask for the last 2 weeks and absolutely love it.
The one thing I really love about the products, they smell amazing. They are not harsh, so I never felt a reaction or any sort of burning sensation. This says a lot because being pregnant my skin is so sensitive. I love that their products are natural and don't use any super harsh chemicals. This was huge for me when picking out pregnancy skin care products. I didn't want to use retinoids or chemicals (which when researching products is hard to find ones without!).
Here's what Trust Beauty says about the Commit Night Cream
Good luck! Winners will be announced next Tuesday!

I've been pretty vocal about that fact that pregnancy hasn't done my skin a ton of favors. Let's be blunt, pregnancy has killed my skin. The "glow" I got was mid-summer sweat and I found myself breaking out more than I anticipated.
At the very beginning of my pregnancy. I turned to my BFF to help me with some tips. I got a new cleanser, day cream and started using Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Within days. I saw a change, but I knew I needed a little more help.
I needed a little bit more targeted help. Overall, I was seeing a change in my skin, but knew I needed to jump in a little more.

I met Tom, the owner of Trust Beauty and was amazed by his product. I started religiously using the night cream and the enzyme mask and I swear by the results. My face is so much clearer and I finally have that pregnancy glow. I've been using the Commit Night Cream and the Honor Enzyme Mask for the last 2 weeks and absolutely love it.
The one thing I really love about the products, they smell amazing. They are not harsh, so I never felt a reaction or any sort of burning sensation. This says a lot because being pregnant my skin is so sensitive. I love that their products are natural and don't use any super harsh chemicals. This was huge for me when picking out pregnancy skin care products. I didn't want to use retinoids or chemicals (which when researching products is hard to find ones without!).
Here's what Trust Beauty says about the Commit Night Cream
- Repairs and nourishes skin overnight
- Delivers adaptogens deep into the skin
- Enhanced anti-aging benefits
- Keeps skin moist and dewy all night
- Safe for all skin types, including sensitive, and acne prone skin
- With Vitamin A and Panax Ginseng
- Made in USA, Vegan, 100% Cruelty-Free
- Infuses moisture and hydration
- Fruit enzymes digest dead, dull dry cells.
- May be used before makeup to enhance application
- Safe for all skin types
- With pumpkin and pineapple
- Made in USA, Vegan, 100% Cruelty-Free
Good luck! Winners will be announced next Tuesday!

Happy Thursday friends! Are you sensing a blog trend going on? Yes, it's me, desperately trying to find the perfect skin care, Yesterday I was talking face masks. Today. I am talking every day skin care.
I am so pumped it's Thursday. My parents are coming in town this weekend, we're supposed to get a snow storm on Saturday and all is right in the world. I plan on showing them everything from my Denver Hot-spot list and probably even a little more. What are your weekend plans?
Okay, let's get back on topic, Columbia SkinCare. I am SO excited to share this product with you today. Here's where the disclaimer comes in, so you know, I received this product free, but all opinions are my own, swear.
I received this product a little over a month ago. I think in all fairness and in order to write a proper review, I had to have at least a month to try it. I was given a cream and a serum. I've been using them with my normal cleanser.
Wanna know the coolest thing about this product? It's a Probiotic Concentrate and Complex. Meaning, just like the probiotics or good bacteria that we ingest to stay healthy, it's now being used on the skin. This product does what we all really want in a skin care, it renews and rejuvenates the skin. Healthy glowing skin is so possible and in large part to this product. And let's get real, healthy skin is beautiful skin. Let's be clear though, this product is not to cover things up. It's designed to actually renew your skin and nourish it, so that it only continues to get better!
Like I mentioned, I've been using this product for a little over a month and I can totally see the brightness renewed in my face. My sun spots (thanks arizona) are lightening and overall, I have clearer skin. My quest to get rid of acne is going good.
One little caveat form the owners:
But, to be honest, I dove head first into this product and haven't been the slightest bit disappointed. I'm literally obsessed with it.
I know what you're thinking, where can I sign up?! Well, luckily for you I have a promo code! If you purchase either probiotic product, you will receive a FREE moisturizing cream (literally a $38 offer!) just use promo code: ProbioticGift at checkout!
Head to the link here --> Columbia SkinCare and get buying ladies and gents!
Happy Thursday!
I am so pumped it's Thursday. My parents are coming in town this weekend, we're supposed to get a snow storm on Saturday and all is right in the world. I plan on showing them everything from my Denver Hot-spot list and probably even a little more. What are your weekend plans?
Okay, let's get back on topic, Columbia SkinCare. I am SO excited to share this product with you today. Here's where the disclaimer comes in, so you know, I received this product free, but all opinions are my own, swear.
I received this product a little over a month ago. I think in all fairness and in order to write a proper review, I had to have at least a month to try it. I was given a cream and a serum. I've been using them with my normal cleanser.
Wanna know the coolest thing about this product? It's a Probiotic Concentrate and Complex. Meaning, just like the probiotics or good bacteria that we ingest to stay healthy, it's now being used on the skin. This product does what we all really want in a skin care, it renews and rejuvenates the skin. Healthy glowing skin is so possible and in large part to this product. And let's get real, healthy skin is beautiful skin. Let's be clear though, this product is not to cover things up. It's designed to actually renew your skin and nourish it, so that it only continues to get better!
Even Henry loves it.
One little caveat form the owners:
Our probiotics promote the natural cleansing of impurities in the cellular system, including residual impurities from other medications and treatments including retinoids.
There can sometimes be a slight interaction, usually a tiny blemish or pimple developing on a person who has been using too much retinol or retinal products. This is actually the effort of our probiotics to rid the cells of the impurities in the retinal products which often result in the drying of the skin. There is so much overuse and abuse of products containing retinal and many people aren’t even aware of the cumulative side effects from all retinol products and their derivatives. This is one of the true benefits of our technology. It is now possible to obtain all the benefits of retinoids without any of the harmful and otherwise unwanted side effects.Don't overuse this. Just like most products, it can be drying. It is important to use the product as specified. And with any new product, its a good idea to do small testing areas before full use. Skin is so different and I'd hate for you to go overboard.
But, to be honest, I dove head first into this product and haven't been the slightest bit disappointed. I'm literally obsessed with it.
I know what you're thinking, where can I sign up?! Well, luckily for you I have a promo code! If you purchase either probiotic product, you will receive a FREE moisturizing cream (literally a $38 offer!) just use promo code: ProbioticGift at checkout!
Head to the link here --> Columbia SkinCare and get buying ladies and gents!
Happy Thursday!
Winter is absolutely brutal for my skin. The freezing cold, super dry air makes for dry blech skin. Throw in a few days of 70+ degree temps and forget about it. My face is a mess.
About a month ago, I started noticing more breakouts. Once I got over my teenage years, I was blessed with pretty clear skin. Sure I'd have the occasional breakout, but nothing I couldn't handle.
I could not figure out this recent breakout fest my face was participating in. Was it my diet? I cut out all sugar. That helped, but I was still noticing little blemishes. I wasn't on my period, wasn't pregnant, so excess hormones couldn't be the issue. Was my makeup causing it? I stopped using one product and I bought new face make up, maybe mine was old? Nope, nothing, still breaking out.
My skin care routine has always been super basic. Great cleaner, toner and night and morning moisturizer. It's always worked for me. I wash my face in the morning and night and never really put much effort in to my skin because for the most part it cooperated with me. I've never been super dedicated to one product or another but am always willing to try new stuff. I knew after this last rush of breakouts I had to try something new.
I went to the mall to find a solution and stumbled upon Lush. Now, we all know what Lush is, the amazing smelling place in the mall. Its filled with colorful bath bombs, great smelling lotions and the best lip tints ever. I went in and began searching for the best mask.
A man approached me offering to help and I couldn't notice how nice his skin was. I told him my small back story about mini-blemishes and how I just wanted something to clean my pores. Before saying a word, he directed me to this mask. He suggested starting once a day for 4-5 days and then every other and then once a week.
Sold. I ran home, washed my face and on the mask went. Adam even joined me! It is the cleanest, tingling feeling mask ever. Day 4 and I could totally see a difference. My skin is brighter, my pores are tighter and cleaner and my skin looks so rejuvenated.
Now, if you're one of the lucky ones with tiny pores, I have a few other masks I LOVE and for different reasons.
Let me be clear, I'm not a dermatologist, I use what I like and how it works for my skin. Always be careful when trying new products as you might have a reaction you didn't quite expect. I always talk to people when buying skin products about my own skin and any concerns I have.
What to use: See below- I listed by 4 favs!
How to use: Apply that mask!
Why: Clear skin, bright skin, smaller pores and happier faces!
Let's get to it. My 4 favorite skin masks:
Lush: Mask of Magnaminty: This tingly, minty face and body mask was formulated to be intensely cleansing but never harsh or abrasive. Kaolin clay and peppermint oil rid your pores of debris, giving you a delightfully tingly clean sensation. We add loads of ground aduki beans to exfoliate flaky or dry skin, vanilla absolute to calm redness and honey to soothe and moisturize.
Be prepared to look a little goofy with it on, but glorious when you wash it off. I use a gentle moisturizer after I use this mask and it is the most refreshing feeling ever.
If you are looking to replenish moisture to your skin, this mask is for you. You will feel instantly rejuvenated. This mask is perfect for those cold harsh winters. It's Adams favorite - yes men can wear face masks!
Dr. Jart+: All that Lift and Firm: A specially-designed mask that achieves the appearance of skin-lifting and elasticity improvement.
Wanna tighten your skin? Look jowls? Chin? Neck? This mask is for you. It is designed to increase elasticity in your skin. I'm so down for this because I'm scared of needles and am not quite ready for Botox or a lift. They don't sell the lift and firm, now its called contour but it's the same stuff!
Andalou Naturals: Fruit Enzyme Mask: Fruit stem cells, resveratrol CoQ10, and bioactive 8 berry complex help support dermal vitality as fruit juice enzymes gently dissolve and exfoliate dull, dry surface cells to reveal skin’s natural glow and a rejuvenated complexion.
I love this mask. No tingling, no burning. It's gentle and refreshing. It's purpose is for those of us with very dry skin. I wanted something that instantly made my face feel fresh and moisturized. This is that mask. And, I bought it at Whole Foods, score!
Happy Wednesday friends! What are your favorite skin care products?
Let's finish out this week strong with a giveaway!
Lush has the best hand lotion ever! This is my fav - and you get a chance to win one! Enter the giveaway below!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
About a month ago, I started noticing more breakouts. Once I got over my teenage years, I was blessed with pretty clear skin. Sure I'd have the occasional breakout, but nothing I couldn't handle.
I could not figure out this recent breakout fest my face was participating in. Was it my diet? I cut out all sugar. That helped, but I was still noticing little blemishes. I wasn't on my period, wasn't pregnant, so excess hormones couldn't be the issue. Was my makeup causing it? I stopped using one product and I bought new face make up, maybe mine was old? Nope, nothing, still breaking out.
My skin care routine has always been super basic. Great cleaner, toner and night and morning moisturizer. It's always worked for me. I wash my face in the morning and night and never really put much effort in to my skin because for the most part it cooperated with me. I've never been super dedicated to one product or another but am always willing to try new stuff. I knew after this last rush of breakouts I had to try something new.
I went to the mall to find a solution and stumbled upon Lush. Now, we all know what Lush is, the amazing smelling place in the mall. Its filled with colorful bath bombs, great smelling lotions and the best lip tints ever. I went in and began searching for the best mask.
A man approached me offering to help and I couldn't notice how nice his skin was. I told him my small back story about mini-blemishes and how I just wanted something to clean my pores. Before saying a word, he directed me to this mask. He suggested starting once a day for 4-5 days and then every other and then once a week.
Sold. I ran home, washed my face and on the mask went. Adam even joined me! It is the cleanest, tingling feeling mask ever. Day 4 and I could totally see a difference. My skin is brighter, my pores are tighter and cleaner and my skin looks so rejuvenated.
Now, if you're one of the lucky ones with tiny pores, I have a few other masks I LOVE and for different reasons.
Let me be clear, I'm not a dermatologist, I use what I like and how it works for my skin. Always be careful when trying new products as you might have a reaction you didn't quite expect. I always talk to people when buying skin products about my own skin and any concerns I have.
What to use: See below- I listed by 4 favs!
How to use: Apply that mask!
Why: Clear skin, bright skin, smaller pores and happier faces!
Let's get to it. My 4 favorite skin masks:
Lush: Mask of Magnaminty: This tingly, minty face and body mask was formulated to be intensely cleansing but never harsh or abrasive. Kaolin clay and peppermint oil rid your pores of debris, giving you a delightfully tingly clean sensation. We add loads of ground aduki beans to exfoliate flaky or dry skin, vanilla absolute to calm redness and honey to soothe and moisturize.
Be prepared to look a little goofy with it on, but glorious when you wash it off. I use a gentle moisturizer after I use this mask and it is the most refreshing feeling ever.
Lola may or may not have tried to lick my face while this was on.
See, everyone thinks it smells good!
Sk-II Facial Treatment Mask: A luxurious facial mask with an indulgent concentration of Pitera in a single application. Your skin is immediately and exceptionally immersed in moisturization, resulting in a visibly radiant and crystal clear complexion.If you are looking to replenish moisture to your skin, this mask is for you. You will feel instantly rejuvenated. This mask is perfect for those cold harsh winters. It's Adams favorite - yes men can wear face masks!
Dr. Jart+: All that Lift and Firm: A specially-designed mask that achieves the appearance of skin-lifting and elasticity improvement.
Wanna tighten your skin? Look jowls? Chin? Neck? This mask is for you. It is designed to increase elasticity in your skin. I'm so down for this because I'm scared of needles and am not quite ready for Botox or a lift. They don't sell the lift and firm, now its called contour but it's the same stuff!
Andalou Naturals: Fruit Enzyme Mask: Fruit stem cells, resveratrol CoQ10, and bioactive 8 berry complex help support dermal vitality as fruit juice enzymes gently dissolve and exfoliate dull, dry surface cells to reveal skin’s natural glow and a rejuvenated complexion.
I love this mask. No tingling, no burning. It's gentle and refreshing. It's purpose is for those of us with very dry skin. I wanted something that instantly made my face feel fresh and moisturized. This is that mask. And, I bought it at Whole Foods, score!
Happy Wednesday friends! What are your favorite skin care products?
Let's finish out this week strong with a giveaway!
Lush has the best hand lotion ever! This is my fav - and you get a chance to win one! Enter the giveaway below!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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