Category: TIPS & ADVICE

BEAUTYINSIDER'S GUIDERECOMMENDEDTIPS & ADVICE

Why Vitamin C and Sunscreen are the Ultimate Daytime Duo

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We all know sunscreen is a non-negotiable for healthy skin. But what if you could supercharge your sun protection and give your skin an extra glow? That’s where vitamin C comes in! Here’s why this dynamic duo should be your go-to for a daytime skincare routine: Vitamin C: Your Antioxidant Armor Imagine tiny warriors battling free radicals – unstable molecules that damage your skin and accelerate aging. That’s vitamin C in action! This powerful antioxidant neutralizes these free radicals, keeping your skin healthy and protected from environmental aggressors like pollution and, yes, even some of the sun’s harmful rays. The Sunscreen Shield: Why They Work Together Sunscreen is essential for blocking UVA and UVB rays, the main culprits behind sunburn, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. But sunscreen isn’t perfect. Some free radicals can still sneak through. Here’s where vitamin C steps up. By neutralizing those free radicals, vitamin C provides an extra layer of defense, enhancing the overall effectiveness of your sunscreen. Think of it as a double shield against Continue Reading

ARTICLE OF THE MONTHBEAUTYEDITOR'S CHOICEINSIDER'S GUIDEMUST READMUST READNEWESTRECOMMENDEDSKIN REPORTERTIPS & ADVICE

Sun Spots aka hyperpigmentation

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Sun exposure can leave its mark on our skin in the form of sun spots, also known as hyperpigmentation. These dark patches are caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives our skin its colour. While sun spots are harmless, many people want to minimize their appearance. Here, we’ll explore what sunspots are, how to prevent them, and some skincare ingredients that can help lighten their visibility. What are Sun Spots? Sun spots are flat, darkened areas of skin that typically appear on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, chest, hands, and arms. They’re more common in people with lighter skin tones and those who spend a lot of time outdoors. Preventing Sun Spots is Key The best way to deal with sun spots is to prevent them from forming in the first place. Here are some essential sun protection tips: Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen! Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every single day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more often if Continue Reading

ARTICLE OF THE MONTHEDITOR'S CHOICEMUST READNEWESTSKIN REPORTERTIPS & ADVICE

Retinol vs. Retinoid: Unveiling the Mystery Behind the Anti-Aging Powerhouses

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We all know the struggle of navigating the overwhelming world of skincare ingredients. Two terms that often cause confusion? Retinol and retinoid. While they sound similar, there are key differences between these two power players in the anti-aging game. Let’s break it down for you! The Retinoid Umbrella: Think of retinoid as the overarching category. It encompasses a whole family of vitamin A derivatives used to treat various skin concerns. These include prescription-strength medications like tretinoin (Retin-A) and adapalene (Differin), as well as over-the-counter options like retinol. Retinol: The Gentler Cousin Retinol is a specific type of retinoid found in many over-the-counter skincare products. It’s known for being a gentler alternative to prescription retinoids. Here’s why: Strength: Retinol comes in various concentrations, but generally at a lower percentage compared to prescription retinoids. This translates to a milder effect on the skin, making it a good option for beginners or those with sensitive skin. Conversion Process: Unlike its prescription counterparts, retinol needs to be converted into retinoic acid, the active form Continue Reading

SKIN REPORTERTIPS & ADVICE

Collagen SOS: Why It Decreases and How to Fight Back for a Youthful You

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Let’s face it, collagen is the holy grail of youthful skin. This wonder protein provides structure, elasticity, and plumpness, keeping our faces looking fresh and wrinkle-free. But here’s the not-so-fun truth: collagen production naturally slows down as we age. But don’t despair! While we can’t completely stop this process, we can definitely fight back and minimize its effects. The Collagen Cliff: What Happens When Production Slows? Around our mid-twenties, collagen production dips by about 1% each year. This gradual decline might not be noticeable at first, but over time, the consequences become more evident. Here’s what you might experience: Fine lines and wrinkles: As collagen production slows, our skin loses its elasticity, leading to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth. Loss of volume: Collagen also helps maintain facial fullness. As it depletes, our skin starts to sag, creating a more hollowed-out appearance. Aches and pains: Collagen isn’t just for our faces! It plays a crucial role in joint health as well. Decreased collagen Continue Reading

ARTICLE OF THE MONTHBEAUTYEDITOR'S CHOICEINSIDER'S GUIDEMAKEUPMUST READMUST READNEWESTRECOMMENDEDSKIN REPORTERTIPS & ADVICE

Don’t Be Fooled: Foundation SPF vs. Sunscreen SPF

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We all know sun protection is crucial. But with busy mornings, who has time for a whole skincare routine and makeup application? That’s where foundations with SPF come in, promising a one-step solution to flawless skin and sun safety. But hold on a sec, is that SPF in your foundation really enough? Let’s break down the key differences between SPF in foundation and sunscreen to ensure you’re getting the sun protection you deserve. The Truth About Foundation SPF: Lower Coverage: Foundations typically contain a lower SPF than dedicated sunscreens, usually ranging from SPF 15 to 30. While some offer higher numbers, achieving that level often requires a thicker-than-usual application, which isn’t always ideal for daily wear. Uneven Application: We tend to focus foundation on areas like the center of the face, neglecting areas like the hairline, ears, and neck that also need sun protection. Reapplication Issues: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming. Reapplying foundation throughout the day isn’t always practical, compromising sun protection. Sunscreen: The Undisputed Continue Reading