We all have them: that favorite bath towel, the trusty hand towel by the sink, or the pile of beach towels that have seen countless summers. They seem to last forever, faithfully absorbing water day in and day out. But here's a truth few people consider: towels expire. Yes, your seemingly immortal towel has a lifespan, and continuing to use it past its prime isn't just a matter of aesthetics; it's a matter of hygiene, absorbency, and even efficiency.
Anyways, I received some fantastic new products that I've been absolutely loving and incorporating into my routine. As you all know, I always try out products thoroughly before I share my honest review on the blog. So, let's dive right in!
The brand I'm raving about today is Cetaphil, and specifically, their incredible new product line. Cetaphil, a brand trusted by dermatologists for over 75 years, has been a staple in skincare for sensitive skin since its inception in 1947. Developed by a pharmacist, the original Cetaphil Cleansing Lotion (now known as Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser) was designed to be gentle yet effective, making it a go-to for those with delicate or compromised skin barriers. Their philosophy has always been about providing simple, effective, and dermatologist-recommended solutions. This new line truly embodies that legacy, and I'm so glad I'm one of the early birds to try it out and give my genuine opinion about it.
Let's talk products!
1. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion for Normal to Dry, Sensitive Skin
This product is a standout. It soothes the skin and protects it from dryness for up to 48 hours. But let me tell you, I have tried it and it lasts more than 48 hours because I've truly put it to the test. This lightweight, non-greasy lotion is specifically formulated with a powerful blend of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Avocado Oil , and Vitamin E.
Key Ingredients & Benefits:
Niacinamide: Known for its skin-strengthening properties, helping to restore the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Avocado Oil: A rich source of fatty acids and vitamins, providing deep nourishment and helping to lock in moisture.
Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from environmental damage.
This 236 ml bottle is a skincare essential. It's clinically proven to fully restore your skin's natural moisture barrier in just one week. The addition of Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) alongside Niacinamide and Vitamin E truly boosts its effectiveness. There's no added fragrance, it doesn't clog pores, and I've experienced absolutely no irritation whatsoever – no bumps, no form of itch. It's just really, really good.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this for anyone looking for an affordable yet incredibly effective skincare solution that's suitable for all skin types. This is truly one of the best moisturizing products I've tried in a long time, especially because the hydration lasts for so long. I really hope they keep this formula exactly as it is because sometimes new brands change things up, but this one is pure perfection. You can apply it all over your face and body for intense hydration. This one works, and I’m giving it a solid 10 over 10.
2. Cetaphil PRO Itch Prone Skin Moisturizing Lotion for Sensitive, Dry or Very Dry Skin
Moving on to another fantastic product, this one is specifically designed for sensitive, dry, or very dry skin, and it's even suitable for eczema-prone skin. It actively strengthens and protects your skin's natural barrier.
Key Ingredients & Benefits:
Ceramide Complex: This is the star ingredient here. Ceramides are essential lipids found naturally in the skin barrier. This complex helps to replenish the natural protective lipids, which are crucial for a healthy, intact skin barrier, especially in conditions like eczema.
Highly effective moisturizing ingredients: A combination of emollients and humectants work synergistically to provide intense hydration.
Recommended by dermatologists, this product is clinically proven to increase the moisture content of dry skin for 24 hours after just one application. It helps skin feel soft, smooth, and less sensitive, and crucially, it helps to soothe that uncomfortable itchy feeling often associated with dry skin. It's suitable for all ages, won't clog your pores, is fragrance-free, and is hypoallergenic.
Directions for Use: Apply daily as required, especially after bathing or showering. For a comprehensive dry skincare regimen, it’s best used alongside the Cetaphil PRO Itch Prone Skin Body Wash.
Now, my personal experience with this one: I have a particular part of my leg that has been itching me, but anytime I apply this product, that itch stops. I’ve been using different creams on that area, but they haven’t had a long-lasting effect. So far, I love the immediate relief; I haven’t had that itch since I applied it yesterday. I still see that the bumps are there, but they’re a bit fainter than before, so I’m continuing to try this product. I would say that if you have an itch, this product will instantly relieve it, but I am still monitoring whether it will completely clear the bumps in the small area of my leg. I will continue using this product and will update you after I finish it.
What I will say is that the moisturization for this one lasts for 24 hours. So, if you want a longer moisturization time, you definitely need to go for the Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion for Normal to Dry, Sensitive Skin (the one I talked about first) that lasts for 48 hours – it actually lasts for more than 48 hours. If you’re looking for really deep, long-lasting moisturization, that’s your go-to.
I've been using the Lab.it Pore Rice Cleanser for some time now. When I received the product, I really wanted to give it an honest review, as I always do. So, here's my genuine opinion.
The product is not scented, which makes it suitable for anyone. But what really made this cleanser stand out for me is how my face feels after using it. Even if I don't apply cream immediately, my skin doesn't get uncomfortably dry. The texture is good too. I've heard of some Asian brands but hadn't tried them before, so maybe I was lucky enough to be sent this product, and it really suits my skin.
How I Use It
The instructions say to take an appropriate amount, lather well, gently massage the face, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. However, I use it a bit differently: I apply the pore rice cleanser to my skin, spread and massage it, and then I often leave it on for a while if I'm doing other things, rinsing it off when I'm done. This particular cleanser is much better than liquid cleansers because it doesn't dry out your skin—at least, it doesn't for me.
I absolutely love this cleanser because it improves my skin clarity, brightens my under-eye area, leaves a rich, moisturizing feeling, and keeps my skin hydrated. It also helps tighten pores, giving me deep hydration and soft, beautiful skin. It's safe for daily use and vegan, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
Texture & Feel
The cleanser has a soft and bouncy texture. It's described as having a "mochi feeling," but since I haven't tried mochi before, I can't compare it directly. For me, it just feels incredibly fresh. Its elastic, creamy, dense, and cushiony texture gently adheres to the skin, effectively drawing out impurities and providing a satisfying, purifying pore cleanse, leaving skin refreshed. It's said to be the secret to baby-soft skin. The tannin green helps tighten pores and moisturize the skin, while rice peptides nourish for luminous, sebum-cleared, and smoother skin.
My skincare routine is straightforward. I only wear makeup once a week, usually on a Saturday or Sunday. The rest of the week, my skin gets to breathe freely. I genuinely believe this makeup-free time has significantly contributed to the overall health and balance of my skin.
I firmly believe that healthy skin originates from within. What I eat plays a huge role in how my skin looks and feels, and it's something I actively pay attention to.
That's why I decided to share this post about the Skin Saints Vitamin C Glow Skin Tonic. If you're already in a good place with your skin and are simply looking for a lightweight product to maintain that healthy glow and boost radiance, then this tonic might just be for you.
This tonic is incredibly easy to incorporate into even the most minimal routine. It feels refreshing on the skin and absorbs quickly without any residue. The product feels slightly sticky at first, but it quickly dries. The subtle citrus scent is also a lovely little pick-me-up in the morning or evening.
For me, this tonic isn't about correcting major skin concerns. Instead, it's the perfect addition to enhance what's already there. It provides a noticeable boost in radiance, leaving my skin looking healthy, vibrant, and with that coveted "lit-from-within" glow.
My Simple Steps with Skin Saints Vitamin C Glow Skin Tonic
Incorporating the Skin Saints Vitamin C Glow Skin Tonic into my routine couldn't be easier. I typically use it once a day, in the morning after cleansing my face. On the rare occasions I do a more thorough evening cleanse (especially after wearing makeup), I might use it then too, but morning is my go-to.
The Best Hand Cream and Soap for Post-Gardening Hand Care
Why Is Hand Care After Gardening Important?
Step 1: Cleanse with Green Lady Cold Processed Soap
Your hands are likely extremely dirty after a day of gardening. But did you know that regular soaps can take away the oils that keep the skin healthy? That's why Green Lady Cold Processed Soap is perfect to use after gardening.
What Makes It Special?
- Handmade in Scotland using traditional slow-curing methods for long-lasting quality.
- It is packed with deeply nourishing ingredients like Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, and Olive Oil .
- It contains Frankincense and French Lavender Essential Oils to soothe and calm your skin.
- It is packed in a sustainable package with no single-use plastics, making it kind to the planet.
- How to use Green Lady Soap: Remove the Green Lady Soap from its eco-friendly canvas bag.
After rinsing off the soap, your skin will be clean, refreshed, and ready to receive nourishment.
Many adults and teenagers worry about having oily skin. It might be difficult to determine the reason for oily skin, which makes it an especially bothersome skin problem. Additionally, some causes of oily skin can be improved or even resolved with basic lifestyle adjustments and skincare products, but other causes might be more challenging to address. Fortunately, there are numerous methods to treat oily skin, regardless of its cause.
Why Does Oily Skin Occur?
Many factors cause oily skin, some of which are under our control. Although treating a genetic predisposition to oily skin can be more difficult, there are solutions available. Oil production can be influenced by lifestyle variables and hormonal changes. For instance, a diet consisting of processed foods, added sugar, and harmful fats may weaken the skin's structure and increase oil production.
In conclusion, your skincare routine and products may also affect oil production. Certain products cause your body to produce more oil by removing the natural oils from your skin.
You can also visit a dermatologist, who can help determine the causes of your oily skin and assist in creating a skincare regimen tailored to your specific skin type; managing oily skin is a primary concern.
Treatments for Oily Skin Using Natural Ingredients
Although your dermatologist could recommend or prescribe prescription or over-the-counter treatments, you can also try several natural solutions for oily skin. While some products, such as blotting sheets and clay masks, are made specifically to help oily skin, many common household items can also help oily skin. Additionally, although some may only momentarily lessen the visibility of oil on your skin, others take more aggressive steps to lessen continuous oil production.
Washing your face to get rid of extra oil is one of the most obvious techniques for improving oily skin. Even though this seems easy, there are a few things to consider ensuring you're improving the condition of your skin rather than worsening it.
To choose the best cleanser for your skin type, first decide what kind of skin you have. An oil-free cleanser, such as a foamy or gel cleanser, may be especially beneficial for people with oily skin. Oily skin may also benefit from various other products. For a dermatologist's opinion on what ingredients to look for in a cleanser, see this article.
Find out how often you should wash your face by consulting your dermatologist. Excessive or insufficient use of a cleanser can affect the production of sebum. Generally speaking, you shouldn't wash your face more than twice a day, and for some people, washing only once a day might be beneficial.
Blotting Papers
Blotting papers are a quick and simple way to minimize oil on your skin, but they are usually only a short-term solution. While on the go, blotting papers are one of the easiest ways to control skin oil.
When gently patted against the skin, blotting papers absorb oil and remove it from the skin's surface. This step produces a more matte appearance and lessens the glossy sheen that many people find objectionable. Continue reading for further oily skin remedies that could lower total oil production.
Honey
Natural antibacterial and antiseptic qualities of honey help minimize oil production and diminish skin germs. Additionally, honey's antimicrobial qualities may help lessen the chance of acne and pimples.
Any type of honey can be used to create a face mask, but manuka honey is special since it has even more antibacterial qualities than regular honey. In a blender, combine honey and oats to form a honey mask, which you can then apply to your face. Apply the mixture to your face gently, then rinse it off thoroughly.
Cosmetic Clay Masks
Clay masks remove extra oil from the skin's surface, just like blotting papers do. Including masks in your daily skincare routine may reduce oil production and "oil shine" at the same time; however, it might not be a quick fix when you're on the go.
Numerous cosmetic companies have ready-to-use clay masks that you can put on your skin, let sit for a while, and then just rinse off. Certain clay products can be made into face masks by mixing them with other components, such as apple cider vinegar. For safe use procedures, make sure you adhere to the packaging instructions regardless of the clay product you choose.
Aloe vera is another common home product that has numerous skin-benefitting properties, much like honey. You can use this lotion on your face to prevent oily skin, even though you may already have store-bought gel at home to relieve sunburn pain. Another use for fresh aloe vera is as a moisturizer that reduces oil production.
Any aloe product should be tested on a tiny patch of skin before being applied to a wider area. Some people are allergic to aloe; if you are one of such people, a patch test can help you avoid more severe suffering.
Oatmeal
Another remedy for oily skin is a homemade oatmeal mask, even though you might be more accustomed to eating oatmeal than using it topically. When applied to the skin, oatmeal's inherent anti-inflammatory qualities may also lessen redness and the visibility of pimples and acne. Furthermore, oatmeal used topically has the ability to absorb oil, lowering the quantity that sits on your skin's surface.
You can make a basic mask with honey and oatmeal, or you can make a paste with two teaspoons of oatmeal, one teaspoon of baking soda, and just enough water. For an oil-reducing mask, leave it on your skin for ten minutes or so, then rinse it off completely.
Jojoba Oil
When you have oily skin, it may seem counterintuitive to apply oil to your face. But one component that can help oily or acne-prone skin is jojoba oil.
Jojoba oil can reduce the quantity of oil your skin produces by balancing your natural oil production when applied topically. Another benefit for acne sufferers is that jojoba oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores. Jojoba oil can help reduce oil production and hydrate skin when applied directly to the face. Consider mixing jojoba oil into your preferred clay mask to increase its ability to combat oil buildup.
While I enjoy learning about new personal care products, black soap has been around for a very long period. I hadn't previously considered its numerous advantages. Learning all it has to offer, many have come to love this unusual soap as a household favorite.
If, like me, you're intrigued by this especially colored soap and why it's become so popular, you're in the right place! Keep reading.
What is black soap?
Burnt cocoa pod ash or roasted plantain skin ash mixed with a particular kind of oil, like coconut or palm, is what black soap is made of. This is the usual base for soap, but some types also have shea butter, aloe vera, and honey in them. The ash gives black soap its dark color.
Real black soap comes from West Africa and is a dark brown or gray color with a rough surface. A few of the corners of the soap may even start to fall apart easily. Real black soap is made without lye or added smells and doesn't have any extra ingredients. However, the appeal of black soap extends beyond its natural, additive-free composition. It has many other uses as well.
Advantages of Black Soap: In addition to cleaning your hands and body, black soap has many other uses.
Antimicrobial Qualities
In addition to dirt and pollutants, traditional black soap may help remove dangerous microorganisms. Actually, black soap has antibacterial qualities that could help stop bacterial illnesses from Staph and E. coli. According to one study, black soap manufactured the old-fashioned way had more antibacterial activity than medicated soaps.
Safe for the majority of skin types
Fragrances, colors, and sulfur are among the components found in many soaps that can irritate skin, particularly in people with eczema or sensitive skin. Since black soap doesn't contain these extra additives, it's a great option for most people with a variety of skin types. If any soap, including black soap, causes discomfort or adverse effects, stop using it and see your dermatologist.
Black soap can treat acne and blemishes
Black soap may assist with acne and pimples in a variety of ways. First, its antibacterial qualities may lower the presence of acne-causing bacteria on the skin's surface. Second, black soap may help to balance the oils on your skin, creating a blemish-free appearance. Finally, black soap with honey may reduce skin inflammation, lowering the risk of pimples and acne. Black soap can also be used as an exfoliator, clearing away dead skin cells that can block pores and cause blemishes.
Exfoliates skin
May treat skin Fungus
Fungus is the cause of many common problems, including dandruff, athlete's foot, and toenail fungus. According to research, traditional black soap has antifungal qualities that may aid in the treatment of many common health concerns as well as other types of fungus. The ash from dried cocoa pods in black soap may aid in limiting the growth of germs and microorganisms. Honey also has antibacterial and antifungal characteristics, which add to the benefits of black soap in terms of skin protection and treatment of specific bacterial and fungal disorders.
Reduces inflammation
Black soap contains vitamins A and E, two micronutrients with strong antioxidant possibilities. Antioxidants not only protect the body from free radicals, but they can also lower inflammation. Certain skin diseases, such as rosacea, cause painful and obvious inflammation. Using black soap may help reduce inflammation while also potentially improving the underlying issues that are generating it. Honey, another popular component in black soap, has extra anti-inflammatory benefits.
Treats dandruff
Despite its name, you can use black soap as both a soap and a shampoo. Dandruff is a scalp ailment that has multiple origins, the most frequent of which are dry or oily skin and fungus. When used as a shampoo, black soap may help with dandruff in a variety of ways. Its antifungal characteristics can inhibit the growth of fungus that causes dandruff on the scalp, improve the balance of oils on the skin, and moisturize the skin.
Moisturizes the skin
Shea butter and coconut oil, two common components in black soap, have great moisturizing properties. These oils possess the capacity to retain moisture, enhancing skin hydration and alleviating the common itching associated with skin dryness. Black soap's nutrient profile, which includes a high vitamin E level, can also assist in increasing skin hydration. Check out this blog for more skin hydration suggestions. It has the potential to alleviate acne and blemishes.
Black soap may assist with acne and pimples in various ways. First, its antibacterial qualities may lower the presence of acne-causing bacteria on the skin's surface. Second, black soap may help to balance the oils on your skin, creating a blemish-free appearance. Finally, black soap with honey may reduce skin inflammation, lowering the risk of pimples and acne. Black soap can also be used as an exfoliator, clearing away dead skin cells that can block pores and cause blemishes.
Refer to this post for more information on acne control and dermatologists' solutions.
During cold winter mornings, I like to take hot showers before applying either coconut oil or shea butter because they help me maintain a radiant glow while also hydrating and revitalizing my skin.
Why Your Skin Will Love the Ultra Rich Anti-Ageing Face Cream
Here’s what makes it special:
1. Frankincense for Wrinkles
This cream’s secret weapon is frankincense, a natural ingredient that’s fantastic for reducing the appearance of wrinkles. For centuries, people have used frankincense for its skin-smoothing and anti-inflammatory properties. If you’re looking to fade age spots and smooth out fine lines, frankincense is a must-have in your skincare routine.
2. Intense, Long-Lasting Hydration
The blend of natural ingredients in this cream is an ideal solution for hydration.
- Beeswax locks in moisture, preventing dry, flaky skin.
- Avocado butter provides natural sun protection while deeply nourishing your skin.
- Virgin Organic Shea Butter ensures your skin stays plump and moisturized around the clock. This rich formula works wonders day and night, leaving your skin feeling smooth, soft, and rejuvenated.
How to Get the Best Results with the Ultra Rich Anti-Ageing Face Cream
This cream is easy to incorporate into your routine, whether you use it in the morning to start your day or as part of your nighttime routine. For the best results, I recommend applying it after your toner and serum for a dewy, glowing complexion that lasts all day. At night, allow the deeply hydrating ingredients to do their work while you sleep, resulting in softer, more radiant skin when you wake up.
Why Shea Butter is My Skincare Staple
You are all aware that I am an avid advocate for shea butter, and this cream contains the highest quality version: Virgin Organic Shea Butter. It locks in moisture like no other, leaving my skin feeling soft and plump. Combined with frankincense, it’s been giving my skin a youthful glow that I’m obsessed with.
Eco-Friendly Beauty That’s Good for You—and the Planet
One of the reasons I love this cream (besides how amazing it makes my skin look) is the eco-friendly packaging. The brand strives to make their products beneficial for both your skin and the environment. This brand meets all the criteria for sustainable beauty!
As we age, our appearance changes along with our wisdom and experiences. These changes are most noticeable on our faces.
How the Face Ages
Over time, several changes occur:
Foreheads: They expand as hairlines recede.
Ears: They may get longer due to cartilage growth.
Noses: The tips may droop because the connective tissue weakens.
Behind the scenes, fat in the face, which is evenly distributed when we’re young, starts to lose volume, clump up, and shift downward. This can cause formerly round features to sink and smooth skin to sag. Additionally, the lower part of the face may gain fat, leading to a baggy chin and jowly neck.
Wrinkles also appear, with deep ones on the forehead and between the eyebrows caused by facial muscles continually tugging on the skin. Other folds deepen as fat decreases and moves around, while finer wrinkles result from sun damage, smoking, and natural skin degeneration.
Addressing an Aging Face
While aging gracefully is beautiful, some may want to slow down these changes. Here are some options:
Celebrate Aging: Embrace age-related changes as reflections of life’s joys and challenges.
Facelifts: surgical procedures that remove excess tissue and lift sagging skin. Though effective, they are expensive and may require additional procedures.
Nonsurgical Alternatives: These include rejuvenating treatments, which, while not cheap, can be effective.
Tips for a Youthful Appearance
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
Creams and lotions: moisturizers can temporarily reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Prescription creams containing retinoids can reduce wrinkles and liver spots by promoting collagen production and altering melanin.
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During winter in the Northern Hemisphere, you might experience red, rough, raw, and itchy skin because of low humidity both outside and inside. The outer layer of your skin reflects the humidity around it. Luckily, there are many simple and inexpensive ways to relieve winter dry skin, also known as winter itch.
Even if you live in a warm place, most people will deal with dry skin at some point. These tips can help keep your skin soft and healthy, whether you’re in chilly New England or sunny Hawaii.
Keeping Moisture in the Skin
Moisturizers are the first step in fighting dry skin. They rehydrate the top layer of skin cells and lock in moisture. There are three main types of ingredients in moisturizers:
Humectants: Attract moisture (e.g., ceramides, glycerin, sorbitol, hyaluronic acid, lecithin).
Occlusives: Seal in moisture (e.g., petrolatum, silicone, lanolin, mineral oil).
Emollients: Smooth skin by filling in spaces between cells (e.g., linoleic, linolenic, lauric acids)
Social media and stores are full of products that promise perfect skin. These products are increasingly marketed not just to adults but also to teens and tweens. While many are harmless, some can cause skin irritation and be expensive. Even if they are harmless, do they promote unhealthy ideas about beauty?
From a medical perspective, most teens and tweens don’t need specialized skin products, especially expensive ones. But let’s discuss when they might be useful.
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When should teens and tweens use specialized skin products?
1. When a doctor recommends it. If your child has a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis, over-the-counter products might help. For eczema, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers are usually recommended. Always ask your doctor which brands to use and how to use them.
2. If they have dry or sensitive skin, Fragrance-free cleansers and non-irritating moisturizers (creams and ointments are better than lotions) are good choices. If you have questions or the products aren’t helping, consult your doctor.
What about acne products?
It’s rare to go through adolescence without a pimple. If your child is bothered by pimples, acne products from the pharmacy might help. Mild cleansers are better than those with alcohol. Look for cleansers for dry skin or eczema. Over-the-counter acne treatments often contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acids. Adapalene can help with stubborn pimples. Avoid astringents or exfoliants,, as they can irritate the skin. Talk to your doctor about the best options, especially if over-the-counter products aren’t working. There are many prescription treatments available.
As the sun graces us with its warm embrace, our skin craves soothing relief. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, hiking through scenic trails, or enjoying a picnic in the park, sun-kissed days demand proper care. Enter the Calypso After Sun Lotion With Insect Repellent 500ml—your ultimate companion for post-sun pampering.
Why Choose Calypso After Sun Lotion?
- Cooling and Refreshing:
- After a day in the sun, your skin deserves a refreshing treat. Calypso’s After Sun Lotion cools and rejuvenates, providing instant relief.
- Soothing and Healing:
- Aloe Vera and special moisturizers work together to soothe and heal sun-exposed skin. Say goodbye to redness and discomfort!
- Effective Insect Repellent:
- Not only does this lotion pamper your skin, but it also keeps pesky insects at bay. No more unwelcome bug bites during your outdoor adventures!
Application Tips:
- Liberally apply the Calypso After Sun Lotion to your skin after sun exposure.
- Gently massage it in for optimal absorption.
- Reapply as needed throughout the day.
User Experience:
- Texture and Absorption:
- The lotion glides on smoothly, absorbing quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
- Mild and Calming Fragrance:
- Enjoy the subtle scent that lingers—neither overpowering nor cloying.
- Generous 500ml Size:
- One bottle lasts all summer, making it a cost-effective choice.
When to Reach for Calypso After Sun Lotion:
- Late Summer Evenings:
- Heading out for a sunset stroll? Apply the lotion to soothe your skin after a day of sun exposure.
- Outdoor Activities:
- Camping, picnics, mountain climbing, or hiking—wherever you venture, Calypso has your back (and your skin).
- Insect-Prone Areas:
- Keep those pesky bugs away! The insect repellent properties make it ideal for any outdoor setting.
Calypso After Sun Lotion with Insect Repellent is more than skincare—it’s a sun-safe ritual. So, embrace the warmth, explore the outdoors, and let Calypso pamper your skin. Remember: Aloe Vera, moisturizers, and insect repellent—this lotion has it all!
However, a dermatologist from Harvard says that's asking too much.
"I don't think exfoliation is going to fix anybody's wrinkles," says Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center interim dermatology chair Rachel Reynolds, MD. Exfoliation has certain advantages, but if you don't perform it carefully or use instruments or chemicals that your skin can't handle, it can also irritate and inflame the skin.
How do you exfoliate?
Exfoliation can be done mechanically or chemically. Every person has unique benefits.
Mechanical exfoliation, also known as physical exfoliation, involves physically removing dead skin cells from the skin with a brush, loofah sponge, or scrub that contains abrasive particles. "Mechanical exfoliation can improve skin luster by taking off a dead layer of skin that can make it look dull," explains Dr. Reynolds. "And it can help unclog pores a bit, which can reduce some types of acne."
Chemical exfoliation liquefies dead skin cells by using chemicals, most often salicylic acid or alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids. "Chemical exfoliant's work on a micro-level to help dissolve excess skin cells and reduce uneven pigmentation sitting on the surface of the skin," she continues. "They also restore skin glow, improve acne, and give the skin a little more shine."
The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser • The INKEY List • £12
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution • The Ordinary • £6.80
Why is exfoliation encouraged by skin care products so frequently?
According to Dr. Reynolds, there are probably hundreds of commercially available skin care products that are marketed as exfoliating, including face masks, cleansers, and body washes. She questions, though, why so many different products highlight this aspect so strongly.
"It's advantageous for a cosmetics company to sell consumers more products in a skin care line," she says. "But it's buyer beware, because this is a completely unregulated market, and cosmetic companies can make claims that don't have to be substantiated in actual clinical trials."
Does our skin need to be exfoliated?
No. "Nothing happens if you don't exfoliate—you just walk around with bumpy or slightly dry skin, which is inconsequential except for cosmetic reasons," explains Dr. Reynolds.
"No one has to exfoliate, but it can be helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs," she continues. "As we age, these areas get drier than other parts of the body, and people notice they build up a lot more flaking skin and an almost fish-scale appearance."