There you have it! Sofwave is a less invasive alternative to Botox that doesn’t just create the appearance of smoother, fine line–free skin—it actually creates it from within! Naturally, a treatment like this doesn’t come cheap (ugh), but it’s definitely worth it in the long run if you want to keep your skin looking youthful. Shieh shares a bit more about what kind of results you can expect and how much each treatment costs.
“People can expect to see lifting and wrinkle reduction of the areas treated,” he says. “For someone that receives a typical full-face treatment, including under the chin, at around the two-week [mark], they enjoy seeing brows that are lifted naturally, improvement in wrinkles and fine lines, and improved lifting of the jawline and under the chin area. This result continues to improve as collagen remodels and can be more noticeable at two months. A single treatment gives noticeable results in the majority of patients. Although, additional treatments may be performed for additional improvements.”
As for the price, I’ll be honest, it’s steep. But it could be well worth it for those long-term results since Botox can’t exactly provide that. Shieh says, “Sofwave costs vary depending on the size of the area being treated. A partial face treatment starts around $1500, with full-face treatments running approximately $2500 to $5000. A neck and under-chin-area treatment can run $2000 to $3000.”
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Getting to live a long and beautiful life makes aging a privilege, not something to fear. However, the inevitable side effects of aging—like the wrinkles, sagging skin, and hair loss—can make you wish you could remain 29 forever. Because our diets can make a huge difference in delaying the signs, I tried Revive Collagen—the most luxurious and celebrity-approved beauty supplement on the market—for around 3 months to see what all the excitement is about. I also spoke to brand ambassador and celebrity hair stylist Chris Appleton to understand why Revive Collagen stands out against other anti-aging supplements.
This product is a game-changer from the get-go (and I’m not just saying that). I’m notoriously forgetful when it comes to my daily supplements, which is why I love that it comes in single-use sachets that are tasty enough to drink without a chaser, making it easy to keep extras in my purse. It’s made entirely from marine collagen, which has superior bioavailability to bovine collagen. Because it’s in liquid form—rather than power or gummy—it also has an absorption rate of up to 95%. Not only does it provide a mega-dose of collagen—anywhere from 8500 MG to 10,000 MG—but it also covers all your daily vitamin needs, making it an all-in-one supplement. Chris Appleton tells StyleCaster: “They contain added ingredients like Retinol, Aloe Vera, and Hyaluronic Acid, as well as vitamins like Vitamin B6, B12, C, and D in the Enhanced Plus, which also helps to enhance results and provides those extra beauty and health benefits. Vitamin C also helps to boost collagen production further!”
Courtesy of Revive Collagen
Pros
Highly effective
Tastes good
Easy to drink
Contains all your daily vitamin needs
Now that I’m in my 30’s, aging is becoming a bigger concern of mine. According to Appleton, we start “losing 1% of collagen each year after turning 25.” Gasp! As the years wear on, I’ve noticed a deepening of my crows feet, a darkening of the circles under my eyes, and some volume loss in my cheeks.
With so many powerful nutritional benefits in Revive Collagen, it makes sense why I started seeing a noticeable difference in my skin in just two weeks. After taking these supplements daily, I saw the wrinkles beneath my eyes were becoming less apparent. I saw that my face looked more lifted, as though the elasticity was improving. However, the biggest improvement I noticed—and the most exciting to see—was this intense and luminous glow my skin was radiating. It felt as though I had a “pregnancy glow” within just a few short weeks (and I’m definitely not pregnant). By the three-month mark, my skin looked downright incredible, making me stare at my face in the mirror longer than Narcissus. I’m also happy to report that I haven’t had a major blemish since I started taking these supplements.
I also noticed improvements in my hair, which started to look shinier, stronger, and healthier. I was never someone who received endless compliments on my hair, but I started turning heads and attracting comments like “Your hair is so pretty,” and “Wow, what are you doing to your hair?” after about a month of taking these sachets every day. After taking these supplements for three full months, I noticed some new hair growth sprouting at my hairline.
In the US, Revive Collagen is currently available in two formats:
Courtesy of Revive Collagen
The original Revive Collagen product comes with 14 sachets (a 2-week supply). It contains “8,500 MG of Type 1 hydrolyzed marine collagen per serving, with added beauty ingredients and up to 100% of your daily vitamins,” according to the Revive Collagen website. A one-time purchase of this lemon-flavored supplement amounts to $49.99. However, you can lower the price to $47.50 by setting up a subscription and have your supplements delivered every 2 weeks. You can get even more bang for your buck by subscribing to a 28-day supply for $95, which will be delivered every 28 days.
Courtesy of Revive Collagen
An even stronger dose of collagen can be found in sachets of Revive Collagen Enhanced Plus, which contain 10,000 MG of Type 1 hydrolyzed marine collagen per serving. If you want to see results even faster, I recommend the plus version. The tropical flavor is also my personal favorite! You can buy a one-time purchase of 14 sachets for 54.99, but you can reduce the cost to $52.24 by signing up for a subscription that arrives every two weeks. You can reduce the cost even further by signing up for a 28-day subscription for $104.50.
I was also curious to learn more about Chris Appleton’s experience with Revive Collagen, as the whole world is privy to the fact that his hair and skin is beautiful. I also took this opportunity to pick his brain for new trends and style tips. In an interview that took place over email, here’s what Appleton had to say:
Courtesy of Revive Collagen
SC: How soon did you start noticing results from Revive Collagen? CA: After the first 2 weeks, I felt like my energy levels had improved, and it was around 4-6 weeks that I really started to notice the benefits to my skin—my overall complexion looked healthier, and my skin was more glowey. Iʼve been getting compliments on my skin, and the only thing I changed was taking a Revive Collagen sachet daily.
SC: How has using Revive Collagen changed or altered your beauty routine? CA: Iʼve become more religious with my beauty routine as itʼs made me realize how important consistency is for achieving and maintaining the best results. Itʼs so important to take a 360 approach to beauty and wellness too. Iʼm known for my work on the outside but what you put into your body is key for healthy hair and skin.
SC: How is ingesting collagen different from using it topically? Does it have different benefits? CA: Yes, massively! Topical skincare products that contain collagen canʼt be absorbed through the skin dermis in its whole form so they cannot increase your natural collagen. Ingesting collagen through supplements is the most effective way to do this as they are broken down into smaller peptides which can then be absorbed and stimulate the fibroblasts in the body to help trigger collagen production.
SC: What type of confidence has using Revive Collagen given you? CA: I used to suffer a lot with my skin, so itʼs given me more confidence, fewer breakouts, and better skin texture. Iʼm also really into my health and wellness, so taking Revive Collagen gives me the reassurance that Iʼm giving my body all the goodness it needs to enhance my skin, hair, and overall health from within. Iʼm also a big believer that if you feel great on the inside, you also look good on the outside.
SC: Aside from improving your skin, what other surprise benefits from Revive Collagen have you noticed? CA: My hair has been so much stronger and shinier which is amazing as I like to switch up my hair color a lot. I also have more energy and a general glow to my overall health.
SC: Do you have a game-changing style or grooming tip for men that youʼd like to share? CA: Adding root powder to your hairline is a great trick to add thickness and give a fuller look. It also works as a good face framer for all styles and can help give you a more youthful appearance.
SC: Whatʼs a current style or beauty trend thatʼs giving you the ick? CA: To be honest, Iʼm here for change. I donʼt get the ick for style or beauty trends because I can appreciate it for what it is in the moment. Some things are not for everyone, but I think itʼs important that trends evolve and are accessible to everyone.
Although Revive Collagen is on the pricier end compared to some other collagen supplements on the market, it’s absolutely worth the investment if you care about your skin, hair,and overall health. I mean, it actually works! With Revive Collagen, you probably don’t need to take other vitamins or supplements, as this product already contains most of the vitamins your body and mind needs in one day. It also contains a high dose of collagen, making it rapidly and noticeably effective. And because it’s formulated to give you the maximum bioavailability—thanks to the fact that it’s made from marine collagen and available in liquid form—you can trust that you’re benefitting from it as much as possible. I give Revive Collagen an enthusiastic 5 stars.
Trends come and go for teenagers and pre-teens, but a recent surge of interest in anti-aging skincare might be harming their skin.
The internet has been awash with videos of young girls aged as young as 10 or 11 roaming around stores like Sephora, purchasing expensive and potent anti-aging skincare products containing ingredients like retinol and exfoliating acids.
Now, dermatologists are warning preteens and their parents that these products may actually be damaging their youthful skin.
Stock image of a young woman looking at her skin. Young teens using anti-aging products may be damaging their skin, dermatologists say. Stock image of a young woman looking at her skin. Young teens using anti-aging products may be damaging their skin, dermatologists say. ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS
Many of these tweens and teens have gotten into skincare after watching TikToks from their favorite creators, who have a detailed skincare regimen consisting of a cocktail of expensive brands such as Drunk Elephant or Fenty. However, using these strong products together has begun to cause damage, with many reporting outbreaks of eczema, rashes, and acne.
“Many products have what we call “active” ingredients — like salicylic acid, retinols, peptides. They are more suitable for mature skin to target wrinkles or skin with specific concerns like acne. But for tweens and teens, these ingredients can do damage, irritate the skin and cause the reverse effects they are hoping to achieve,” Carol Cheng, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology and board-certified dermatologist and pediatric dermatologist at UCLA Health, said in a statement.
As we get older, the amount of collagen our skin produces slowly wanes, leading to the development of wrinkles. On adult skin, retinol helps slow the process of aging by increasing the production of collagen in the skin, which reduces fine lines over time. However, before a person reaches their twenties, collagen has not yet begun to dwindle, making retinol redundant.
“Retinols and retinoids can sometimes be a problem for young children, especially if there is not a clinical indication such as acne. Retinols can sometimes cause retinoid dermatitis, a type of scaly rash. Additionally, retinols can make you susceptible to sunburn and sun damage,” Jayden Galamgam, a board-certified dermatologist and pediatric dermatology fellow at UCLA Health, said in the statement.
Many young people mix ingredients to create a “skincare smoothie”, which can alter the pH of the products and result in skin irritation. Additionally, using retinol improperly, i.e. in the morning or without sun protection, can result in increased sun damage to the skin.
Stock image of a woman looking at her skin. Young people’s skin may be being damaged by using retinol skincare products. Stock image of a woman looking at her skin. Young people’s skin may be being damaged by using retinol skincare products. ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS
Experts recommend that younger people interested in skincare stick to a basic routine that avoids stronger ingredients.
“A simple and practical routine is best. Cleanse the face once or twice a day with a gentle facial cleanser. Drugstore brands (Cetaphil, for example) are fine. Apply a ‘broad spectrum’ sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater every morning is of utmost importance. At nighttime, add a facial moisturizer if the skin seems dry. That’s it,” Cheng said.
Using sun protection is the bastion of skincare, the experts say, and is a way for younger people who are concerned about wrinkles to avoid premature aging of the skin.
“The number one thing we stress is sunscreen. Kids should develop that habit early so that it becomes part of their normal daily routine. Also, they should cleanse their face with a facial cleanser. Facial cleansers are formulated to have a pH level closer to the skin’s natural pH level,” Galamgam said. “Preteens and teenagers also should avoid harsh exfoliating scrubs. These can cause dryness, redness and irritation. Other than a mild cleanser and sunscreen, people should find a facial moisturizer that works best for their skin type.”
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Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
If you often look to TikTok for the next addition to your beauty regimen, then you’ve likely already heard of the brand Mediheal. Its skin-tightening chin mask sold out a record three times, and even BTS member Jimin swears by the $2 Tea Tree Care Solution Essential Mask. But if you’ve already given both of those best-sellers a go, it’s time to check out Mediheal’s Collagen Ampoule Pad
, a collagen-infused toner pad that firms skin and restores elasticity.
Environmental aggressors are a leading cause of skin concerns, so if you’ve dealt with your fair share of congestion, redness, dryness or premature aging, these toner pads
are for you. The daily skincare pads offer a quick solution to “improve skin depression” across multiple areas of the face, such as the eye area, cheeks, smile lines and forehead.
Each disposable pad
is made with vegan fibers and packed full of three key ingredients that nourish acne-prone, mature and sensitive skin—collagen, ceramides and milk protein sink deep into the complexion to fix sagging, grime build-up and wrinkles.
Mediheal
Amazon reviewers have flocked to the reviews section to share their experiences using the collagen pads. Many have commented on how helpful the inclusion of tweezers is for keeping the container sanitary, while others mostly remarked on how “amazing” their skin feels after each use.
“I’ve seen these toner pads advertised all over social media and I can see why! They’re honestly amazing. I have sensitive and acne prone skin so it’s difficult to find a toner that won’t eat at my skin. This is so easy to use, so gentle on my skin, and it smells very nice…It’s been about a week of use for me and I already know I’m going to stock up on more. I also love how much of the product you get for the price,” wrote one.
“In a matter of ONE day this thing got rid of almost all of the clogged pores on my inner cheeks (around my nose, right under my eyes),” shared another. “I had these, what looked like, little hills across my cheeks and nothing could get rid of them. I bought these on a whim per TikTok, and left the patch on much like a mask for a little over 15 mins. Then I used what was left and rubbed it on my entire face…By morning I had very very little clogged pores left. My make up went on smooth! This is a game changer!”
In addition to the Collagen Ampoule Pads, Mediheal offers a variety of other toner formulations for targeting different concerns. Pick up a container of gentle toner pads for blemished skin
or opt for these brightening pads
to lighten dark spots and dull areas.
Well, it finally happened—I turned 30 years old last month. Even though those around me have insisted that this decade is about a billion times better than the last one, there was still this monumental fear I grasped onto, and a big part of it had to do with the notion that I was starting to lose my youth. Blame it on the world’s obsession with beauty or even my career working in it, but there was a societal echo I couldn’t ignore.
Ironically, when people enter their 30s, they’re often tackling the same skin issues they dealt with in the past, including hormonal acne and oiliness. They might even be presented with new ones, like dullness, wrinkles, and a loss of elasticity. In my case, I don’t have to worry about breakouts, but I do worry that I haven’t been doing enough in terms of prevention.
Even though I’m quite happy about where I’m at in life and know aging is unavoidable, I still want to kick my skincare routine up a notch to prevent early signs of aging. That’s why I created a new arsenal of skin, hair, and body products for top-tier care. Keep scrolling to see the skincare products I’m incorporating into my routine.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
We don’t know about you, but going online and combing through endless pages of the best skincare products gets exhausting, even for the most dedicated shoppers. And when it comes to fighting dry and tired-looking skin when chillier temps hit, there are so many options to choose from. But thanks to Asterwood’s hyaluronic serum, you can finally kiss irritated skin goodbye.
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that locks in moisture to the skin and holds 1,000 times its weight in water. The moisturizing ingredient alleviates dry skin naturally without leaving it irritated and inflamed. Meaning, the acid seriously helps hydrate and plump your face. What’s more, hyaluronic acid also possesses anti-aging benefits because it improves the skin’s elasticity, leading to a youthful and dewy appearance. It’s also an ingredient that pairs well with the other ingredients in your skincare routine. So, if you’re using a retinol or even a vitamin C, the acid won’t counteract any of those products’ benefits. Bonus: you can use it in your morning or evening routine too.
Courtesy of Asterwood Naturals.
If you’re not using a hyaluronic acid serum in your routine, meet Asterwood Natural’s hydrating serum. It plumps the skin and locks in moisture for all-day hydration. The serum also promises to smooth lines, wrinkles and dark spots, while leaving the skin dewy and bright.
One shopper called the serum a “godsend” and added that it’s “probably the best hyaluronic acid serum
I’ve ever purchased. My skin had been dry in spots, oily in others and breaking out in cystic acne around my chin. From the first time using this, my skin has been so happy! I seriously felt my face just slurp up and absorb the serum right away. My skin is now so soft, and the acne is healing up beautifully and not leaving angry marks.”
Even those with signs of aging love the transforming serum and its visible benefits.
“I’ve been using this for a couple of weeks just to see if it really works! My mind is blown! Fine lines are faded, skin is hydrated and younger-looking. People have asked what I use, I’m 34, and people think I’m at least 10 years younger!”
Another said that the hyaluronic acid serum
“turns back the clock.” Then added, “within a few days, I noticed my skin looked like it had a few years ago.”
Other shoppers report that the serum fades acne scars and dark spots with consistent use.
“It’s magic in a bottle!” another reviewer said. “Nothing really worked for my dark spots until now! I bought this for anti-aging, however, it did wonders for my acne scars.”
And, if you’re concerned with how the serum looks alongside your other skincare products for your next shelfie, rest assured that the bottle is stunning. “The serum just arrived last night. I haven’t used it, so I can’t review how well it works yet, but the packaging is adorable. Very simplistic [and] clean-looking. [It] kind of looks like a vintage bottle. That can easily be left out because it is aesthetically pleasing,” said a shopper.
To use the hyaluronic acid serum
, apply two to four drops and massage it into your face and neck area—after cleaning your skin. For the best (and fastest) results, use the serum in your AM and PM routines.
As with any skincare device, there are certain areas of the face that should be approached with caution or avoided entirely when using a micro-needling tool. Davis tells us these include the eyelids and the delicate skin around the eyes and lips. It should also be used carefully on bony areas, such as the forehead. “The skin in these areas is very delicate and thin and can easily be damaged by at-home micro-needling devices, resulting in bleeding, bruising, granulomas, discoloration, and infections,” explains Davis. Before undergoing the treatment, always remember to thoroughly cleanse the skin (avoiding the use of abrasives such as scrubs prior to the treatment). When selecting a micro-needling tool, look for a device developed specifically for at-home use from a trusted brand.
“Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid any unwanted consequences. Do not use the at-home device in areas of active infections, acne, or breakouts, as this can result in bacterial transfer and possible infections and granuloma formation,” she advises. Needle length of the at-home devices should also be considered to avoid deep penetration of the skin’s outer layer. Applying gentle pressure to avoid excess trauma on the skin and utilizing SPF on treated areas is key for effective and healthy use. When it comes to product recommendations, Davis doubles down on her advice to only purchase at-home devices from reputable brands.
Your product of choice should also have the ability to adjust the length of the needles for a customized experience. “The device needs to be manufactured from high-quality materials that are easy to clean, such as stainless steel,” she tells us. It’s also smart to evaluate the safety features of the product, ensuring that it includes built-in mechanisms to avoid excess pressure and an easy-to-clean design. When in doubt, look to reviews to help gauge a product’s safety, effectiveness, and popularity. Keep reading for our expert- and beauty-editor-approved list of the best at-home micro-needling tools for a well-rounded skincare regimen.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
There are a plethora of reasons why dark spots appear, from years of improper sun exposure to an overproduction of melanin in the skin. Since these are trickier factors to reverse, people often turn to potent treatments (such as a chemical peel) to rectify them—but if you’re not quite ready to turn down that road, applying a dark spot corrector regularly can bring its own set of changes.
Most dark spot serums contain brightening ingredients like vitamin C and retinol to gently lighten and fade discoloration and age spots, but if you aren’t seeing as fast of results as you’d like, a targeted corrector is the way to go. Makari’s Extreme Argan & Carrot Oil Dark Spot Corrector Serum is an example of a potent treatment that will speed the process up.
Makari
The multi-use, lightweight cream aims to bring “dramatically improved skin” from the first use. Since it is capable of delivering quite intense results, it’s advised to dab the product onto your skin with a cotton swab so as not to over-do your applications. You can also dilute the product by combining it with your go-to lotions, creams or gels and apply across larger patches of skin. To see it really work its magic, it’s recommended by the brand to apply the product three times per week. You should also maintain proper sunscreen applications to keep hyperpigmentation at bay.
Ingredients like carrot seed oil, which is rich in vitamin A and carotenoids, brings back a natural radiance to the skin while fending off signs of aging. It’s joined by anti-inflammatory vitamin E which helps minimize the effects of UV exposure, and argan oil to keep oil production in line and treat acne.
Reviewers who’ve tried the dark spot corrector claim it gave them “their glow back” within a week of use, and that they’ve seen “positive changes on their face” from using it regularly.
Stacey Tull, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. She says, “Retinols are vitamin A derivatives that help promote healthy skin turnover but can often be irritating, especially in the dry winter months. Retinol alternatives also help to stimulate healthy skin production but do so more gently.”
In other words, yes, retinol alternatives are effective, but that doesn’t mean you necessarily have to swap your go-to retinol serum out for one. Like all things skincare related, it depends on your unique skin type and goals. If you’re dealing with sensitive skin, though, retinol alternatives are generally your best bet. “Everyone’s skin is different, so for many people, retinol alternatives may be as good as or better than the real thing,” Tull says. “For some, retinol may be fine most of the year, but they may need to use a gentler formulation in the winter. Anyone with dry or sensitive skin will likely prefer a retinol alternative.” They’re also recommended for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding and, as such, can’t use retinol.
The consistency of use is something else to consider when deciding between retinol and retinol alternatives. “While retinols are inactivated by the sun and should only be applied at night, better results are achieved with twice-daily dosing of retinol alternatives,” Tull says.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
When searching for eye creams, I tend to go for simple formulas that moisturize and hydrate. I don’t need ones that contain a billion ingredients or words I can’t even pronounce. I like the less is more approach since the under-eyes have such delicate skin. If you’re thinking what I’m thinking, then allow me to introduce you to L’Oréal’s Eye Defense Eye Cream.
It’s a lightweight, non-greasy gel-cream formula that combats visible signs of aging
around the eyes, which includes puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles, and dark circles. Which ingredients are responsible for this product’s anti-aging capabilities? None other than caffeine and hyaluronic acid.
Caffeine is known to minimize puffiness, while hyaluronic acid, as you likely already know, delivers deep hydration and can help plump skin. Pair these two under-eye game-changers together and you get results that can only be expressed through stellar shopper reviews.
L’Oréal Paris.
L’Oreal Paris Dermo-Expertise Eye Defense Eye Cream
On Sale 16% off
“I have dark circles and fine lines and [this] takes them away like magic! I’ve tried all kinds of brands mostly high-end expensive creams for dark circles and none work for me,” wrote one shopper. “This is a great product; no greasiness and lightweight. A great bargain for an amazing product!”
Another user commented, “I had really bad dark circles and so Rome suggested this. All I can say is dark circles where??!?! This is a miracle
in a little container. Will be getting more.”
“I have been using this product for many, many years! As I am approaching my 60s, I still use it twice daily. I have tried more expensive products and have always returned to this product,” another one explained. “I have woken up with puffy, tired eyes, but once I apply this product within 15 minutes I see a huge difference. It’s tingly and refreshing and I can even walk around without makeup and still get compliments on my youthful skin.”
To see equally amazing results, apply the product every day in both the morning and at night—all skin types are welcome.
If you’re like me and prefer no-fuss eye creams, L’Oréal’s Eye Defense Eye Cream should be in your Amazon cart as we speak—especially if you’re struggling to find a fix for under-eye puffiness, wrinkles, and dark circles. Remember: The anti-aging eye cream is on sale for 16 percent off on Amazon
right now.
FELLSMERE, Fla., November 13, 2023 (Newswire.com)
– B&W Quality Growers, North America’s largest grower of distinctive, leafy greens, recommends adding watercress to your diet to improve and reduce the appearance of aging. Watercress contains over 50 essential nutrients that support the primary contributing factors to healthy, youthful skin, including collagen production, reducing inflammation, and building a strong first line of defense.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, 90% of what causes the skin to age is due to photodamage, or exposure to sunlight. The outer layer of skin, the epidermis, is the skin’s first layer and is what’s affected most by this exposure. One of the most effective ways of improving this outer layer is through consuming nutrients.
A primary attribute of youthful skin is appearing firm and smooth through collagen and elastin production. Collagen is a protein that gives the skin strength and accounts for 30% of the body’s overall protein, and elastin allows for flexibility. As we age, collagen and elastin production slow, but nutrients like Vitamin C, Zinc, and carotenoids, all found in watercress, are the best support for these proteins that may help create a wrinkle-free look.
Hydration is a crucial factor in achieving a healthier glow. Watercress is 95% water and contains 98% of the daily recommended dose of Vitamin C, which is also responsible for hydrating and brightening the skin. Hydrated skin results from an appropriate amount of sebum production regulated by fatty acids maintained by magnesium.
In addition, magnesium improves discoloration, redness, acne, and other skin inflammation by protecting the skin from oxidative stress, lowering cortisol levels, and regulating cellular repair and regeneration. Other nutrients found in watercress that help with hyperpigmentation are copper, manganese, selenium, zinc, and Vitamins C and E.
Our bodies cannot create these nutrients on their own. The best way to obtain these essential nutrients and their benefits is to include them in a balanced diet. Incorporate watercress into your daily diet to maximize all the benefits this leafy green offers.
B&W Quality Growers has been farming responsibly since 1870. We’re the largest growers of distinctive leafy greens, including watercress, arugula, spinach, and ong choy. We sustainably grow, pack, and ship the highest quality distinctive leafy greens, providing well-being for our consumers and value for our customers. We’ve done this with zero product recalls and aim to provide a healthier, more flavorful world using premium leaves in everyday recipes. Follow B&W on our social media pages: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
When it comes to makeup and skincare, few do it as well as the French. I mean, just look at how life-changing every CeraVe product is. So, when I stumbled upon an Avene gel moisturizer that shoppers call “magic,” I wasn’t surprised at all.
According to shoppers, Avène’s Hydrance Aqua-Gel Cream is a true do-it-all product. It can act as a daily moisturizer, overnight mask and under-eye gel. The lightweight cream is jam-packed with anti-aging ingredients that smooth the feel of skin. It’s so effective that one shopper on the brand’s site said it’s “the best [moisturizer] I have ever used. 56 and I look 36.”
The reason this anti-aging cream is so versatile is because of its heavy-lifting ingredients. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate skin, and it also is made with cohederm, a trio of skin savers known to restore your skin’s barrier while preventing water loss. Also worth mentioning: the vegan formula is designed without parabens, soy and other prominent allergens.
This is the kind of technology that we expect from a brand that’s nearly three centuries old. Shopper after shopper has heralded this moisturizer for its repairing and rejuvenating capabilities.
“They’re not lying,” one reviewer wrote. “This stuff is magic (and it smells amazing). I even saw results after one day of using this. My skin is glowy and hydrated without being greasy or tacky after use. AND my extremely sensitive skin has had zero problems with this. It’s a lifesaver for everyone, especially those with very sensitive skin.”
So, basically, we’re adding this to our list of anti-aging hero products and adding it to our carts ASAP.
Using stem cell therapies in aesthetic medicine is nothing new, according to Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Beverly Hills. The concept has been around for decades, she says, but there are certain benefits, particularly in regenerative medicine, that have proven to be very important and effective since the cells are undifferentiated. “These cells can develop into specific characteristics of an organ or type of tissue to compensate or replace certain areas of damage within the body,” she says. “Ultimately, when programmed, the stem cells will turn into the cell type that is needed to replace the damaged or affected cells in that area. They are basically our repair kit where and when needed.”
You may know about PRP (platelet-rich plasma), or the vampire facial, but you might not have heard of PRF, or platelet-rich fibrin. The treatments are similar, in that they place the patient’s blood in a centrifuge to separate its layers, but PRP is spun at a high speed, causing the stem cells to go to the bottom. PRF is spun at a slower speed, allowing the stem cells, white blood cells, and fibrin to remain in the platelet. It is then injected into the skin, almost like filler, and helps with wrinkles and lines. Research has shown PRF to be more effective in improving skin texture and skin laxity than PRP.
Another way that stem cells are being used in aesthetic treatments is through “stem cell facelifts.” The process, which includes fat transfer from another part of your body, like the stomach, was known as the original filler, according to Shamban. “The issues are the super-sterile environment and the fact they need to be treated like an infant, as they are super fragile due to the architecture of these cells,” she says. When the fat was transferred, she says, the face would blow up or shrink. It was also unstable if the patient gained weight and was not easy to control due to the contouring effects and irregularities.
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The world of skincare is only getting smarter. Brands are patenting their own technology, new and innovative ingredients are being used and the user experience is only getting more interesting. The latter is especially true for Exponent Beauty, which just released a travel- and beginner-friendly version of its award-winning skincare system that delivers age-defying ingredients to the skin at peak potency.
The Exponent Power System operates the same way as the original Professional System, except in a smaller, convenient design for easier use on the go or at home. Just like the OG, it dispenses the perfect dosage of any of the brand’s hero ingredients, such as the Firming Filter CoQ10 Active Powder, and Hyaluronic Acid Hydrator into the palm of your hand. The result is a newly activated, silky serum that is far stronger than any pre-mixed skincare you’ve used.
The ingredients are preserved in their most potent powder state until activated for application, meaning you’ll see significant clinical results overtime, such as a boost of collagen production and decrease in fine lines, wrinkles, dullness and photoaging.
Exponent Beauty
Speaking of clinical results, here are the facts: Exponent Beauty ran a study for the Firming Filter CoQ10 Active Powder at an independent clinical testing facility across 26 subjects for a four week period. Their skin changes were evaluated at the end of the month, and the findings were as follows. Across all subjects, there was over a 36 percent average increase in skin firmness, a 100 percent decrease in global facial fine lines and wrinkles and 73 percent improvement in skin discoloration. For only a month of use, that’s pretty impressive.
While the Power System is an investment, it’s built to last. You can continually purchase refills of both the hyaluronic acid hydrator and the firming powder, alongside other potent ingredients that bring their own unique set of benefits (like the ultra-brightening 10% L-Ascorbic Acid and wrinkle-defying 0.25% Retinol). Just simply swap the jars (which each come with 30 doses) to reap the powers of all three.
I wanted to get the low-down when it came to common skin mistakes because I’m not 100 percent perfect when it comes to my skincare (though I’m much better than I was a few years ago). I want to know if anybody else messes up, too.
“I think a lot of people don’t realize the importance of washing your face before you go to sleep at night. A lot of women skip washing their face because they think they don’t have time or they’re tired,” says Vargas. “It’s the most important thing you can do. Nighttime is the time for the skin to repair itself from the pollution and sun we put it through all day. Leaving grime, dirt, and makeup on the skin will cause the skin to become inflamed and break out more easily. It will be susceptible to wrinkles because it won’t be healthy.”
Vargas likes products that multitask, like her Vitamin C Face Wash. “I have an exfoliating ingredient in it, as well as an anti-inflammatory to get the makeup off and increase cell turnover, so it’s great to use daily,” she says. When I tried digging for more celebrity skin secrets, she gave the best one: “The skin is a window into what’s happening on the inside. Taking walks to de-stress, healthy choices at dinner, getting enough rest, and focusing on making yourself feel happy are all just as important for your skin as the type of serum you use.” Now, that is some advice I seriously need to take!
If you know me, then you may have noticed that I’ve become a low-key anti-anti-aging crusader. It’s not that I’m against the products and practices that encourage healthy, glowing skin, but I just think the youth obsession that’s swept our society is wack. Not only is it an impossible ask to expect women to defy nature by not showing any natural signs of age, but it’s also a super-problematic message to send that we are only beautiful up to the point that fine lines or wrinkles start to appear.
Even though I’ll always advocate for more realistic and less exploitative conversations around aging, I recognize, as well as anyone, the appeal of having a skincare routine in place to keep our epidermis in tip-top shape, starting with a good moisturizer. So I’m going to step off my soapbox for a quick second to give a shout-out to my mom, Gerri, who, at 62-years old, only has half a wrinkle on her face (a single line between her eyebrows that was probably born right around the time of my rebellious teenage years). In fact, I’ll venture to say mom looks about 20 years younger than she is. Cool? Yes! A measure of her value in this world? Absolutely not!
There are a couple of things you can do to combat saggy skin if it’s bugging you. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are nonsurgical procedures you can get at the dermatologist’s office like ultrasounds, radiofrequency, laser treatments, and laser resurfacing. And of course, there are surgical procedures, too.
But if you want to try an at-home remedy first, you can opt for a skin-tightening serum. These formulas contain ingredients that can boost the production of collagen and elastin, like retinol, peptides, and vitamin C.
Take a look at some options below both for the face and body, which have rave reviews.
Opinions vary when it comes to whether primers are essential to a makeup routine. We’ve written about the debate before. Some people sit in the “yes” camp, while others might think it’s “just a waste of a product.” Either way, there’s no denying that primers can be helpful in the quest for flawless makeup. They set the stage, so to speak, for your products and can help your makeup last throughout the day. Some can even hydrate if you’ve got dry skin, while others can get your oily skin under control.
“Primer is not necessary, in my opinion, for day-to-day wear, but for that completely perfect makeup look,” says celebrity makeup artist Maud Laceppe, whose clients include Vanessa Paradis and Julianne Moore. “It will give more of a photoshopped finish. Primer will definitely make your makeup last longer. It smoothes the fine lines, evens out the skin tone, and reduces the size of your pores.”
But not all primers are created equally, just like everyone’s skin is not the same. “There are primers for all different skin types, so chose one that best suits your skin,” recommends celebrity makeup artist and groomer Georgie Eisdell, who has worked with Gwyneth Paltrow and Sophie Turner. “So if you have oily skin, you might want to use a primer that is oil-free so it can help keep your base looking fresh but not too shiny. If you have drier skin, then locate more hydrating primers or pruning oil to help get a nice glow to the skin.”
