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Tag: Ask a Dermatologist

  • This *Super* Key Step Can Make or Break Your Acne Routine

    This *Super* Key Step Can Make or Break Your Acne Routine

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    Penzi recommends looking for hydrating ingredients that help to retain moisture and reinforce the skin barrier without clogging pores. “Look for hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides, as well as niacinamide,” she says. “Be sure to avoid comedogenic oils like coconut oil. Also avoid heavy occlusive ingredients like petrolatum.”

    To be honest, there are also a lot of other ingredients you should probably steer clear of if you have acne-prone skin, but these are the main culprits derms and facialists consistently say to avoid. Azadeh Shirazi, MD says, “It’s best to avoid ingredients that form a film on your skin’s surface, like silicone derivatives (dimethicone and cyclomethicone). Also, avoid fragrances, mineral oil, lanolin, shea butter, or comedogenic oils like coconut oil,” she says.

    This is a good place to start, but it’s also key to remember that everyone’s skin is different. While shea butter is considered a heavier ingredient by some, I’ve never had an issue with it clogging my pores and it may work for others with acne-prone skin, too. The same goes for silicones. Silicones have sparked much debate over the years with some saying they can create a film over the skin that can further trap bacteria, but again, everyone is different. If you’re highly sensitive it might be best to avoid silicones, but I also haven’t had an issue with those clogging my pores or causing new breakouts. If you’re super sensitive and want to err on the side of caution, choose a moisturizer without these ingredients to start, then maybe later down the line you can try adding one with the above ingredients to see if they’re a trigger for you. Take a look at some of our best noncomedogenic moisturizer recs below.



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    Shawna Hudson

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  • If You Have a Damaged Skin Barrier, This Scandinavian Skincare Secret Can Help

    If You Have a Damaged Skin Barrier, This Scandinavian Skincare Secret Can Help

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    Not only that, but Penzi says cloudberry can also stimulate collagen and thus “contribute to firmness and elasticity of skin” while “diminishing fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of photo-aging.” In other words, it’s inherently anti-aging as well as brightening and barrier-strengthening. 

    Not to sound like a game-show host of yesteryear, but that’s not all! Believe it or not, there’s yet another benefit of cloudberry. It’s anti-inflammatory thanks to its flavonoid content. (Flavonoids are phytochemical compounds). “This helps to soothe and calm irritated skin (eczema-prone, rosacea-prone, inflammatory acne, etc.),” Penzi says. “Additionally, they are rich in omega fatty acids that help to strengthen the skin barrier and retain moisture.” 

    So, yeah, it almost sounds too good to be true, but it’s not. Cloudberry can brighten, soothe, protect, and strengthen the skin barrier all in one go. No wonder it’s been trending lately. 

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    Kaitlyn McLintock

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  • Experts Love This Prototype Evening Skincare Routine for All Ages and Skin Types

    Experts Love This Prototype Evening Skincare Routine for All Ages and Skin Types

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    Celebrity aesthetician Ian Michael Crumm encourages tailoring your routine to your skin’s specific needs, as everyone’s skin is unique. “If you have specific skin concerns, consult with a dermatologist or aesthetician for personalized guidance,” he suggests. If you have aging skin, for example, Crumm recommends opting for products with retinol, peptides, and antioxidants. In that same vein, your skin type (combination, dry, oily, or normal) should be taken into consideration while piecing together an effective evening skincare routine. Even a change in weather pattern or season can influence the behavior of your skin! Your age can also majorly influence what products should be a part of your nightly skincare routine.

    Up until a couple years ago, my skin type was normal, but within a month or so of my 24th birthday, I noticed it was feeling a lot drier, which called for transitioning products in and out of my skincare routine. For dry skin types, board-certified dermatologist Teresa Song, MD, FAAD, of Marmur Medical recommends using a non-foaming, hydrating cleanser followed by moisturizer, retinol, and then a second application of moisturizer, also known as the sandwich method, to offset potential retinoid irritation. “If still feeling dry, one can even add in a hydrating serum prior to moisturizer application,” says Song.

    Alternatively, oily and acne-prone skin can benefit the most from foaming or non-foaming cleansers alternated with a sulfur-based face wash twice a week. According to Song, if cream-based moisturizers feel too heavy, but your skin tolerates retinol well, consider moisturizers with water-gel textures. If you fall into this category, prescription retinoid usage may also be effective. Unsure of where to start? There’s a fast and easy way to determine which products to try without breaking the bank or putting your skin’s health at risk.

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    Maya Thomas

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  • Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Isn't a Needle in a Haystack as Long as You Know This

    Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Isn't a Needle in a Haystack as Long as You Know This

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    There are quite a few ingredients derms say you should avoid if you’re pregnant, and board-certified dermatologists Divya Shokeen, MD, and Lauren Penzi, MD, shared a list of the top five ingredients. 

    Retinoids: Both derms agree that retinoids should be avoided. Even if you’re using a non-prescription retinol, it might be better to exercise caution and forego that for the duration of your pregnancy.

    “Prescription retinoids, such as isotretinoin and tretinoin, should be avoided, as they have been associated with birth defects. Over-the-counter retinol products are also best to be avoided due to the potential risk they may pose.” — Shokeen

    Salicylic Acid: “While low concentrations of salicylic acid in skincare products are generally considered safe, it’s best to avoid high concentrations or peels, as they can potentially be absorbed systemically.” — Shokeen

    Hydroquinone: Both Penzi and Shokeen agree that hydroquinone should be left out of your routine.

    “This skin-lightening ingredient is often used to treat hyperpigmentation, but its safety during pregnancy is uncertain and best avoided.” — Shokeen

    Formaldehyde: “Found in some nail hardeners and hair-straightening treatments, formaldehyde is best avoided due to potential toxicity concerns.” — Shokeen

    Chemical Sunscreen: Penzi says it’s best to avoid chemical sunscreens that contain ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, cinoxate, and more. To be safe, stick with a mineral sunscreen that only contains ingredients like zinc oxide.

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    Shawna Hudson

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  • Mandelic Acid Is the Key to Clearing Acne-Prone Skin (Without Extra Irritation)

    Mandelic Acid Is the Key to Clearing Acne-Prone Skin (Without Extra Irritation)

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    A general rule of thumb is to use an exfoliant two to three times a week,” Camp says. “You may want to use it less often if you have a history of
    particularly sensitive skin.” He notes that overuse of exfoliators can cause redness, dryness, and irritation, so it’s best to start slow. Also, there’s the matter of sun protection. “Exfoliants can make skin more sun sensitive, so it is important to use an SPF moisturizer.”

    Pavitt, on the other hand, operates on a philosophy of daily (but gentle) exfoliation. She recommends starting by using mandelic acid every other day and then amping it up to once per day. “This is the perfect acid for irritated, breakout-prone skin or even someone with super sensitivity,” she says. “The only thing I recommend is to isolate your actives within your routine. Don’t have four or five exfoliators in place with retinol, vitamin C, etc.; this is the only time I see people getting irritated when using mandelic acid (they’re using too many actives).”

    To avoid going overboard, Pavitt recommends sticking to the essentials. “I recommend starting with a gentle non-active cleanser, followed by a mandelic clearing serum, a noncomedogenic moisturizer, and SPF if you’re using it in the daytime.” Oh, and if you’re not sure whether or not you’re using the right products, she has your back. “Use my pore-clogging ingredients checker at sofiepavittface.com,” she says. “You can input a product’s ingredient list into this search engine and it will tell you if that product has any pore-clogging/comedogenic ingredients in it.” 

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    Kaitlyn McLintock

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  • This Low-Key Ingredient Might Be Better Than Vitamin C—Here’s What Derms Say

    This Low-Key Ingredient Might Be Better Than Vitamin C—Here’s What Derms Say

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    But now for the million-dollar question: Is this potent antioxidant better than vitamin C? I asked Camp to weigh in. “Like edelweiss, vitamin C also has antioxidant properties,” he said. “Vitamin C, however, is also known for its ability to brighten skin. Vitamin C can help address sun spots, hyperpigmentation from acne, and uneven skin tone.” 

    So while both antioxidants offer similar benefits, it depends on what your skincare goals are and your skin type. Vitamin C might be better for those struggling with acne and hyperpigmentation, but edelweiss can offer some serious benefits in the anti-aging department. It’s also suitable for sensitive skin that doesn’t tolerate vitamin C. “Edelweiss is generally well-tolerated and can likely be used by those with sensitive skin,” Camp explained. “However, whenever [you] use a new skincare product, it is a good idea to do a test spot, especially if you have a history of sensitive or eczema-prone skin.”

    For a few edelweiss-packed skincare products, take a peek below.

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    Shawna Hudson

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  • Found: The Most Effective Supplements for Hair Growth, According to Rave Reviews

    Found: The Most Effective Supplements for Hair Growth, According to Rave Reviews

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    “It is known that a deficiency in certain vitamins such as iron, vitamin D, zinc, and B12 may contribute to hair loss in which case it can be important to supplement,” Garshick says. “There are other supplements available that use a combination of different ingredients which can be considered as well such as Nutrafol, Vivascal or Welbel.” While most supplements are considered safe to take, Garshick recommends speaking with your medical provider to determine what would serve you best.

    Feeling like biotin is the best option? The popular vitamin, along with a number of other micronutrients found in the most effective supplements for hair growth. Biotin taken alone, however, has limited evidence. Both Garshick and Cheung cited a 2016 study released by the FDA warning that biotin may interfere with certain laboratory tests including thyroid and troponin levels. That being said, it’s always best to indicate all medications and supplements when visiting your doctor.

    Cheung agrees with Garshick, recommending patients to request their labs be drawn before adding any supplement to your diet. Of all the vitamins heavily touted for supporting hair growth, bioton is by far the most recognizable. “Biotin, which is one of the B vitamins, helps with hair strength,” she begins. “The most effective micronutrients are iron, zinc, vitamin D, vitamin B, selenium, iodine, and antioxidant and adaptogen blends.” Higher quality supplements will be free of fillers, binders, and contain more bi-active and easier-absorbed formulations.

    Below are the 10 best hair supplements based on dermatologist recommendations and thousands of glowing customer reviews to simplify your hunt for the most effective hair growth aid. Here’s to a new chapter in your hair journey (and a whole lot of money saved).

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    Maya Thomas

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  • These Pore-Minimizing Gems Will Fool Everyone Into Thinking You Have Tiny Pores

    These Pore-Minimizing Gems Will Fool Everyone Into Thinking You Have Tiny Pores

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    “Shrinking” enlarged pores can be an uphill battle at times. The truth is, you can’t really change the shape of your pores with one specific product. Your pore size is determined by a bunch of different factors, like genetics, age, sun exposure, and skin type. But the good news is you can disguise or hide them if you use the right products.

    Some ingredients to look for that are good for hiding pores are AHAs and BHAs, which can exfoliate, and retinoids, which can work to unclog the pores. Sunscreen will also protect your skin from sun damage, preventing your pores from seeming enlarged.

    You also want to make sure you’re in a good routine with cleaning your face and exfoliating—unclogging the gunk and oil will make your pores appear smaller. But don’t forget to go gentle here—you don’t want to scrub so hard or wash your face too much that you cause inflammation and redness.

    But if you’re looking for products that can make your pores seem smaller, we’ve compiled some highly rated options below. Just remember that at the end of the day, we all have pores. So don’t stress too much if you think your pores look huge—having them is completely natural!

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    Sarah Yang

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  • Biomimetic Skincare Is the Next-Gen Trend That’s Taking Over the Beauty Industry

    Biomimetic Skincare Is the Next-Gen Trend That’s Taking Over the Beauty Industry

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    The idea is that if your body recognizes a skincare ingredient as something it created itself, it allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin and work more effectively than a non-biomimetic ingredient. At least, that’s what skincare brands claim. But what do the derms think? There’s some complexity to consider.

    Take it from Yadav, who says, “The definition of traditional skincare is pretty subjective, and many ingredients that we’d place into that category also fall into the biomimetic category, such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid—ingredients that our bodies naturally produce.”

    In other words, biomimetic is a vague term at best. Furthermore, it can’t account for some very important and widely used ingredients that treat and protect our skin—the most important being sunscreen. “There are some ingredients, like chemical exfoliants and sunscreen, that you can’t just replace or get rid of entirely, but otherwise, I think it’s a great idea to try biomimetic skincare if other products aren’t working for you,” Yadav says. “Those with very sensitive or reactive skin may respond best to biomimetic skincare, as it’s not trying to ‘fight’ their skin but work with it.”

    Camp agrees, saying that biomimetic skincare is certainly effective, but there are other factors to consider. “Much of what makes a skincare product effective or not is the consistency of use,” he says. Still, he notes that “the regular use of products that contain biomimetic ingredients may give your skin a boost in its health and appearance.” 

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    Kaitlyn McLintock

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  • This Trending (Unexpected) Ingredient Is Full of Antioxidants—Why Derms Love It

    This Trending (Unexpected) Ingredient Is Full of Antioxidants—Why Derms Love It

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    Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD, is a Miami-based board-certified dermatologist with over 40 years of experience and the founder of Dr. Loretta Skincare. She says fig offers two main skin benefits: It’s moisturizing and anti-aging due to its fatty acid content and antioxidant activity. First, let’s talk fatty acids. “It’s rich in essential fatty acids that give skin its vibrancy, as they retain moisture,” Ciraldo says. “Fig has been shown in human volunteer testing to significantly decrease transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which increases skin luminosity and improves skin smoothness and texture.” 

    Now let’s talk antioxidants. “It has antioxidant benefits since it is rich in vitamins B and C, so it helps to prevent free radical damage—a major cause of unwanted aging changes including lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and age spots,” she says. 

    Board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, FAAD, agrees, citing a study that found fig extract can improve eczema better than hydrocortisone cream due to its protective properties. As such, it’s well-suited to anyone who has eczema or any other dry, itchy skin conditions. 

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    Kaitlyn McLintock

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  • I Just Found the Best K-Beauty Brand for Acne, and Everything Is Under $35

    I Just Found the Best K-Beauty Brand for Acne, and Everything Is Under $35

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    After years of using drying acne medications, I noticed that my skin barrier wasn’t in great shape. If you’ve ever dealt with acne in any form, I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. Sometimes, you become so focused on drying out your acne, that you forget hydration is also absolutely key. (Ask any dermatologist!) Needless to say, I discovered a little over a year ago that I’d done significant damage to my moisture barrier (live and learn). But every expert I spoke to reminded me how resilient an organ skin is, so if you’re struggling with a similar problem, just know that it will heal.

    It has been a bit of a slow process finding the right skincare for me, but I recently got very into K-beauty due to its highly effective formulas that all come at a really affordable price point. A lot of Korean skincare focuses on maintaining a healthy skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier is what keeps bacteria and other aggressors from permeating your skin and causing things like acne. I love this approach because many brands offer acne-clearing formulas that are effective yet gentle and non-drying.

    One such brand I found that I’m a huge fan of is Aestura. I recently started using its Atobarrier365 Hydro Essence ($29), and let me tell you, the difference I’ve seen in my skin is astounding. My skin used to become dehydrated really easily, which I think was contributing to breakouts. After adding this essence, I’ve seen such a helpful difference in moisture levels and overall skin health. The best part? It’s only $29! I’d say that’s pretty great for a high-quality formula. Pretty much all the products in Aestura’s acne collection are under $35—a win for both your skin and your wallet. TBH, as a beauty editor, I’ve used less effective products that were three times that price. (Don’t @ me.) I spoke to Jeong-Hwan Kim, Ph.D., senior researcher at Aestura Derma Lab, about the products and how you can help maintain a healthy skin barrier. Read on for what he had to share along with a few of my other favorite K-beauty brands for acne.

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    Shawna Hudson

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  • Derms Say This Underrated Ingredient Is Like Hitting Undo on Hyperpigmentation

    Derms Say This Underrated Ingredient Is Like Hitting Undo on Hyperpigmentation

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    Whether you call it hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or discoloration, those pesky dark patches are one of the most stubborn skin concerns to treat. Sure, professional treatments are effective, but not everyone has the time, money, or access. That’s where at-home skincare products come in, and while they won’t give you the same rapid results as in-office treatments, they can make a major difference over time. Trust us, we’ve seen it with our own eyes. 

    The most common ingredients for brightening hyperpigmentation at home include exfoliating acids (specifically AHAs, such as glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids), vitamin C, and retinol. But there’s another ingredient that can work wonders on hyperpigmentation. It’s called alpha arbutin, and it’s known for delivering brighter, more even-toned skin, no matter what your hyperpigmentation is caused by—hormones, post-blemish marks, or sun damage. Keep scrolling to learn everything there is to know about this underrated ingredient and how it can transform your skin. Plus, shop our favorite alpha arbutin products. 

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    Kaitlyn McLintock

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  • A Derm Shared 3 Ayurvedic Medicine Hacks That Helped Heal My Acne

    A Derm Shared 3 Ayurvedic Medicine Hacks That Helped Heal My Acne

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    The first hack I put into practice from Sivamani is cutting dairy. I’ve heard other aestheticians and skincare professionals say that dairy can aggravate breakouts. Not only did cutting dairy lead to fewer pimples for me, but it also stopped the bloating I was dealing with on a daily basis. I was so relieved, TBH. Sivamani recommends making these kinds of lifestyle changes to see if they help you. “Anything that allows less inflammation (balances Pitta in the body) or less  congestion/constipation/stagnation (less Kapha) would be helpful,” he shares. “Some dietary changes that are recommended in Ayurveda include reduction or elimination of dairy, high-glycemic-index foods, or fried fatty foods.” I know completely cutting dairy is unrealistic—trust me, I love a good pizza or pasta moment, so you’re not alone. But I realized that eating dairy almost every day caused a lot of issues for me. I still have it once in a while, but cutting it out of the majority of my diet made huge changes.

    Second, Sivamani says to focus on the gut-skin axis. This definitely means taking care of your gut health and finding the right probiotic for you. This can involve a bit of trial and error, but trust me, it’s worth it. 

    Last, Sivamani also recommends incorporating skincare products with Ayurvedic ingredients or that follow the Ayurvedic philosophy. He recently partnered with Codex Labs on the Shaant Collection. “Codex Labs is a company that focuses on bridging ancient wisdom with science, and their Shaant Collection incorporates the essence of Ayurveda as part of their philosophy. [They incorporated] a probiotic and de-stress supplement powder that is part of their approach along with the skincare line.”

    Basically, treating your skin topically in combination with a probiotic or healthy digestion-supporting supplement can make a huge difference. I use a skin microbiome-adjusting formula from Phyla along with a gut-repair supplement from Happy Mammoth. It’s been around three months, and both of these things have already made a huge difference in my skin. My hormonal breakouts have reduced immensely, and I’m hoping to keep seeing improvements over time.

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    Shawna Hudson

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  • This Underhyped Acid Tackles So Many Skin Concerns at Once—Here’s What to Know

    This Underhyped Acid Tackles So Many Skin Concerns at Once—Here’s What to Know

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    Honestly, I’d heard of succinic acid before, but I never really considered it when curating my lineup of acne fighters until now. I asked two dermatologists to share a bit more about it. First, what is it? Board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, filled us in. “Succinic acid is a compound derived from amber or sugarcane that works as an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hydrating ingredient while helping to balance sebum production,” she explains.

    Board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, also says, “Succinic acid is considered a well-tolerated ingredient by most skin types. As with any new skincare product, consider doing a test spot if you have sensitive skin. Succinic acid may work best on oily or acne-prone skin because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.” Succinic acid is so gentle on acne that Garshick even touts it as an option for those with sensitive skin who can’t tolerate stronger acne-fighting ingredients. She also says it can be used in conjunction with other acne-fighting ingredients and won’t cause irritation.

    Got dark spots after a breakout? No problem! Succinic acid can help with that too. “In terms of hyperpigmentation, succinic acid may modify the production or transport of melanin pigment in the skin, helping to correct or lessen the appearance of dark spots,” Camp adds.

    Succinic acid isn’t just great for acne either. This ingredient is great for dehydrated or barrier-damaged skin. Camp says, “By helping skin retain moisture, succinic acid helps to fortify the efficacy of the skin barrier to protect skin from dryness and external stresses like pollution. When skin is hydrated, texture and the appearance of fine lines are improved. As an antioxidant, succinic acid can help neutralize free radicals that damage cellular structures—like DNA, lipids, and proteins—and contribute to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.”

    I’m honestly overwhelmed by the amount of skin concerns this single ingredient can tackle. If you’re now looking to add it to your routine in some kind of way, keep scrolling. Camp and Garshick are sharing a variety of products with succinic acid that will work well with any skincare routine.

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    Shawna Hudson

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  • If You Tend to Shy Away From Retinoids, This New Version Might Change Your Mind

    If You Tend to Shy Away From Retinoids, This New Version Might Change Your Mind

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    If you’re not familiar with this lesser-known retinoid, let me first explain what it is and how it’s different than other retinoids. Board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, broke it down for us. “Hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) is a type of retinoid that is considered an ester of retinoic acid,” she explains. “This means that it tends to be more potent than traditional retinol without being as irritating as a prescription retinoid.” 

    This type of retinoid can be particularly helpful for those with sensitive skin or those who are new to using retinoids for this reason. Garshick adds, “It can be a great option for someone who is unable to tolerate a prescription retinoid. Since it doesn’t require as many steps to be converted to retinoic acid, unlike traditional retinol, it may be more effective than retinol while still being less irritating than a prescription retinoid, which is what makes it a good option for those with sensitive skin.” 

    I’m excited to try this type of retinoid since I used tretinoin for years only to realize that it was way too strong for my sensitive skin and did my moisture barrier no favors. I’m still dealing with the damage, but I’m ready to incorporate a gentler retinoid like hydroxypinacolone retinoate. For Garshick’s recs and a few more options with HPR, keep scrolling.

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    Shawna Hudson

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  • I Had No Idea My Toner Could Be Anti-Aging, so I Asked Derms How to Pick One

    I Had No Idea My Toner Could Be Anti-Aging, so I Asked Derms How to Pick One

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    “In the past, toners were harsh astringents. Now, they are ways to cleanse the skin,” explains board-certified dermatologist Ife Rodney, MD, FAAD, of Eternal Dermatology and Aesthetics. “These are water-based formulas that contain any combination of acids, antioxidants, and other effective, natural ingredients. Toners benefit the skin as a way to deliver low concentrations of these ingredients to the skin while balancing the pH. They also help in hydrating the skin and removing dead skin cells left behind after washing and cleansing your face. Some people use a toner as part of their makeup routine, cleaning the face before any further products are applied.”

    As for whether you need a toner in your skincare routine, Corey Hartman, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology, says they can be beneficial for oily skin types because they help control breakouts and oil and improve discoloration and scarring. However, Rodney says they aren’t necessary to maintain healthy skin and can be an optional, additional step. “With their antioxidant and exfoliating ingredients, toners may serve as a refreshing primer to help other products go deeper into your skin. If you wear makeup all day long and have acne-prone skin, you’ll be a good candidate for the extra toner step,” she adds.

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    Sarah Yang

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  • 3 Things Every Effective Face Serum Needs, According to Derms

    3 Things Every Effective Face Serum Needs, According to Derms

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    Since there are so many different variations of serums out there, you might be wondering how to actually shop for one. “Choose your face serum based on the concern that you wish to address,” recommends Imahiyerobo-Ip. “Serums are generally pricier than the average over-the-counter skincare cream. How do you know if the serum is worth purchasing? Look at the ingredient list. The active ingredient should be at the top of the ingredient list. If it’s not, then you’ll know that the serum isn’t going to deliver the results you desire.”

    When it comes to choosing an effective face serum, Hartman says to keep three things in mind:

    1. Active Ingredients: “Choose active ingredients that target your skin concerns and dermatologic conditions,” Hartman says. That might mean vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone, or hyaluronic acid for hydration.

    2. Your Skin Type: For oily skin, consider a lighter and more aqueous serum. For dry skin, try an oil serum. “Those with sensitive skin must avoid serums that contain too many acids,” Imahiyerobo-Ip says. “Acids such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, citric acid, or retinoic acid all exfoliate the skin. If your serum contains acids and you have sensitive skin, you may experience skin irritation and redness.”

    3. Consistency of the Serum: Again, go with a lighter formula if you have oily skin and an oil-based formula for drier skin.

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    Sarah Yang

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  • Dermatologists Swear This $10 Exfoliator Is the Secret to Glowing Skin

    Dermatologists Swear This $10 Exfoliator Is the Secret to Glowing Skin

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    The exfoliant you use should be tailored to your skin type. Nazarian says oily or combination skin types can better tolerate physical exfoliants. “Delicate skin or people with other underlying skin conditions such as acne or rosacea tend to do better with chemical exfoliants,” she says. That being said, you can certainly find versions of either that are good for your skin no matter who you are.”

    Nazarian also recommends looking for an exfoliant with hydrating ingredients that can help offset any potential irritation from exfoliating. “Another important consideration is the depth of skin you’ll be removing when choosing your chemical exfoliants. Different ingredients can remove varying levels of skin. The ones that are most superficial (such as mandelic) are the most gentle. The deeper you exfoliate, such as with glycolic acid, the more aggressive the chemical peel.” 

    Be wary of over-exfoliating, too. According to Nazarian, too much exfoliation will leave your skin red, tender, and hyper-sensitive. However, your skin can become lackluster, rough, and dull if you don’t do it enough. “If you remove the skin faster than it has time to accumulate and ‘over-exfoliate,’ it’ll be very raw and sensitive,” she explains. “Take it slow and remember to use sunscreen often—the removal of the top layers of cells leaves you more sensitive to sunlight, radiation, and burns.”

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    Shawna Hudson

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  • FYI: Blue Light Could Be Making Your Melasma Worse—This Skincare Item Can Help

    FYI: Blue Light Could Be Making Your Melasma Worse—This Skincare Item Can Help

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    Board-certified dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, has a bit of advice for those with melasma who need a good sunscreen. “Generally, I always recommend to look for a broad spectrum SPF protection 30 or higher,” she shares. “Importantly, look for the active ingredients of zinc oxide and/or titanium oxide. On top of that, for melasma, it’s very important to have blue light protection. It helps to prevent hyperpigmentation from blue light, which is visible light, and is not covered by all sunscreens. An ingredient to look for is iron oxide. This won’t show up in the active ingredient list at the very top, you have to sift through the full ingredient list. Also, tinted sunscreens, just by having that tint, help protect from blue light/visible light. Overall, a tinted mineral sunscreen is the very best or one that contains iron oxide.”

    If your skin is also sensitive, Murphy-Rose says there are a few things you’ll want to steer clear of. “Avoid purely chemical sunscreens. They will protect from sunburn and skin cancer, but they will not protect against melasma. You really need that mineral shield between your skin and the sun to protect against the hyperpigmentation from melasma.”

    For a few of Murphy-Rose’s recs along with a few of our own favorites, keep reading below.

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    Shawna Hudson

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  • I Polled Derms on the Best SPFs for Acne-Prone Skin—These 14 are Winners

    I Polled Derms on the Best SPFs for Acne-Prone Skin—These 14 are Winners

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    First things first, it’s important to choose a noncomedogenic formula, meaning a formula designed not to clog your pores. “Look for formulas that are oil-free to avoid clogging the pores,” Garshick adds. “While those with acne can use either mineral or chemical sunscreens, those with particularly sensitive skin may opt for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these tend to be less irritating. It can be helpful for those with acne to use a sunscreen containing calming or soothing ingredients such as niacinamide to help calm redness and inflammation. Given those with acne may also be using acne-fighting ingredients that can be drying on the skin, it can also help to use a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients to combat any potential dryness or irritation occurring as a result of acne treatments.”

    Amin has a few other helpful tips to consider when selecting a sunscreen for acne-prone skin. “Labels like ‘noncomedogenic,’ ‘fragrance-free,’ and ‘oil-free’ are helpful indicators that your sunscreen won’t trigger a breakout. What many people don’t realize is that acne-prone skin is sensitive. Choose a mineral sunscreen rather than chemical sunscreen. Physical sunscreens, such as zinc and titanium dioxide, form a protective layer on top of the skin that deflects UV rays. This is in contrast to chemical sunscreens, which get absorbed into the skin and cause allergies and can irritate the skin. Active ingredients in chemical sunscreens commonly trigger breakouts and clog pores. This is especially true if you have acne-prone skin.” For each of their favorite SPFs for break-out-prone skin, keep on scrolling.

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    Shawna Hudson

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