Understanding the Difference Between Intrinsic and Extrinsic Aging


Understanding the Difference Between Intrinsic and Extrinsic Aging

by | Dec 5, 2022

Skin Exfoliation is important

We all know that the skin is the human body’s largest organ, but what’s the purpose of skin and how does our growing older change skin’s ability to perform this role?  We know this skin’s basic functions are to:

  1. Protects us from the outside world of germs and the environment
  2. Maintains our equilibrium – holding in water, controlling our temperature
  3. Is our outward, visible, indicator of health, age and well being

Why does your skin age?

As we age, the appearance and functioning of our skin changes.  Typically, skin becomes thinner, more wrinkled, rougher, less radiant, more lax, less firm, shows changes in pigment levels, and often dryer.  This aging of the skin is a result of two separate but interrelated factors: intrinsic or chronological aging, which is the biological process associated with your genetics and the passage of time, and extrinsic aging, changes caused primarily by external factors, the most important of which is UV exposure, but also includes exposure to pollution, weather, stress, and lifestyle habits.

What is Extrinsic Aging?

It’s generally thought that extrinsic factors have more influence on the visible signs of aging than intrinsic factors. In fact, 80% of skin aging is likely due to exposure to sunlight[1]. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends avoiding sun exposure and the use of a good quality broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 as the most important steps in maintaining skin health and preventing the signs of aging[2]. The good news, 80% of how your skin ages is in your hands.

What is Intrinsic Aging?

Intrinsic aging is the change in your skin related to your age and your genetics, and there are three main causes:

  1. Slower cell turnover
  2. Reduced cellular energy levels
  3. Reduced collagen production

Cell Turnover

We know that skin has the capacity to constantly renew itself.  Dry, dead skin cells slough off the surface to be replaced with new cells that have migrated up from deeper layers.  This replacement process is driven by something called turnover or proliferation.  Proliferation just means one cell dividing itself into two identical copies. Remarkably, cells can do this repeatedly, up to a maximum of about 50 times[3], but research tells us that as we age, this proliferation slows down considerably and eventually stops.  There is no foolproof way of reversing this decline.

Cellular Energy

As you can imagine, for cells to divide constantly, they need a lot of energy, but as we age, our energy levels drop too, sort of like how your phone battery slowly loses the ability to stay charged and runs down more quickly as it gets older.  The good news is that research has shown this decline can be addressed to an extent by providing very specific nutrients, ones that are important to a cell’s energy cycle[4].  Look for products that contain ingredients such as vitamin B3 (also known as niacinamide) and adenosine, both vital molecules in cell’s energy cycle.

What Can You Do To Address Intrinsic Aging?

Firstly, cleanse, tone, treat and protect your skin everyday[5] as this will enable your skin to be as resilient as possible to the signs of aging. Secondly, use products that contain ingredients that address the visible signs of aging caused by changes in cell turnover, energy, and collagen. Third, only use products that have been independently clinically tested to validate their efficacy.

R + F’s groundbreaking Total RF Serum is a powerful anti-aging serum that revitalizes skin to help achieve stronger, healthier, more resilient skin.

The serum does this through the use of carefully chosen ingredients proven to energize surface skin cells, including a propriety blend of ayurvedic sandalwood, Indian Kino extract + omega-6 fatty acids, combined with niacinamide and adenosine.  R+F’s patented antioxidant complex also fortifies the skin making it more resilient and defending against environmental aggressors.

A recent clinical trial published in Clinical Dermatology Open Access Journal, has shown how Total RF Serum can have a noticeable and positive impact on a broad range of anti-aging concerns and is capable of boosting the benefits of almost any skincare routine[6].

In Summary

Don’t assume all skincare is the same.  R+F is a dermatology inspired, problem solution skincare brand that sets out to identify key issues and provide demonstrable benefit. Do your research, identify your issues and do the best thing for your skin because what you do to your skin everyday has a huge impact on how it looks and feels.

Article by Simon Craw, PhD

Dr. Simon Craw holds a PhD in Chemistry from University of Manchester and held academic posts at the University of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and University of Sydney (Australia). He has over 25 years’ industry experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology and skin care research and development.  He began his career at Merck Research Laboratories before moving to a series of start-ups and early-stage biotechnology and skincare companies. At Lifeline Skincare, Dr. Craw helped develop and commercialize one of the first and most innovative stem cell extracts used in topical cosmetics.  At Rodan + Fields Dr. Craw has brought a number of skincare innovations to market including Retinal MD, one of the most powerful non-prescription retinoids and Total RF Serum a breakthrough anti-aging serum powered by a patent-pending new technology targeting cellular energy, RF TriEnergy Complex.

REFERENCES

[1] Flament F, Bazin R, Laquieze S, Rubert V, Simonpietri E, Piot B. Effect of the sun on visible clinical signs of aging in Caucasian skin. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2013 Sep 27;6:221-32. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S44686. PMID: 24101874; PMCID: PMC3790843.

[2] American Academy of Dermatology.  Skincare Tips Dermatologist’s Use. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/skin-care-tips-dermatologists-use

[3] Watts G. Leonard Hayflick and the limits of ageing. Lancet. 2011 Jun 18;377(9783):2075. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(11)60908-2. PMID: 21684371.

[4] Nicotinamide effects on the metabolism of human fibroblasts and keratinocyte assessed by quantitative, label-free fluorescence imaging. Liu Z, Chiang CY, Nip J, Feng L, Zhang Y, Rocha S, Georgakoudi I. Biomed Opt Express. 2021 Sep 20;12(10):6375-6390 https://doi.org/10.1364/BOE.432561

[5] American Academy of Dermatology.  Should I Apply My Skincare Products in a Certain Order? https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/apply-skin-care-certain-order

[6] Craw JS, Falla T, Ong D and Butani S, Efficacy and Tolerability of a Novel Facial Serum.  Clinical Dermatology Open Access Journal, 2022,7(1) doi: 10.23880/cdoaj-16000259

*All referenced results are based on an 8-week U.S. clinical and consumer study.

Learn more about Rodan + Fields  and how you can get your most radiant skin ever. Trust your skin’s glow to the Doctors and to your consultant who know how to help you get your skin glowing.

Results may vary depending on multiple factors: age, gender, skin type and condition, concomitant products used, health history, location, lifestyle, and diet.

Share this with friends or family members. It will save their skin — and boost their confidence.

PM me for the best options to suit your budget 🙂

*information is taken from The Skincare Source.

Send Me a Message

Why You Should Add a Facial Mask to Your Skincare Routine

Why You Should Add a Facial Mask to Your Skincare Routine

by | Oct 12, 2022

Skin Exfoliation is important

TIPS ON HOW TO USE FACIAL MASKS & FINDING THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOUR SKIN CONCERN

Skincare facial masks are a great addition to everyone’s Regimen routine because they can enhance results. Think of facial masks as a way to give your regular skincare some extra “oomph.” In fact, dermatologists often supplement their treatments or facial products with precise facial masks to visibly minimize the symptoms associated with the skin concern. For instance, those on acne protocols use masks to gently clear pores or calm the red, inflamed skin associated with active acne—let facial masks do the work for you!

Do Facial Masks Actually Work?

Facial masks are on the rise due to a new focus on self-care, but Rodan + Fields masks are here to make you look as good as you feel. Rodan + Fields developed specific formulations to address secondary skin concerns like clogged pores, the occasional breakout, dull skin, fine lines and wrinkles, redness or dry skin. The great news is that you can mask match—choose a mask that boosts your regular Regimen results—or mix and mask—choose a facial mask to address a secondary skin concern!

Filling Skin Needs With Rodan + Fields Skincare Facial Masks

Dr. Katie Rodan, Dr. Kathy Fields and the team of scientists at Rodan + Fields developed facial masks for the top common skin concerns that bring people in to see a dermatologist. As the facial masks contain unique ingredients, they can also be paired with the corresponding Regimen (e.g., Redefine Regimen + Redefine Rejuvenation Mask) to boost results—without the visit to the doctor’s office!

Sometimes addressing skin concerns can feel like playing whack-a-mole: you get one under control, only to realize now you’re dealing with dryness, fine lines, and other issues. In this case, facial masks can also come to the rescue. Use them to address skin concerns outside of a primary Regimen (e.g. a Redefine Regimen user could use the Reverse Radiance Mask to address dullness and uneven skin tone).

On top of that, facial masks are so easy to use. Forget mixing, preparations, and cutting out paper masks that never fit right. Simply apply to clean, dry skin, set a 10-minute timer, rinse thoroughly and apply your remaining skincare routine—no painful removal!

Which Facial Mask Should I Use?

Here is a rundown of the available facial mask skincare to help you identify which is best for your skin. As usual, anyone with sensitive skin should patch test the mask on a small area of the jawline for 10 minutes prior to full face application.

Redefine Rejuvenation Mask: Boost Youthful-Looking Skin

Who? Struggling with signs of aging? As you age, your skin’s defenses weaken and skin loses elasticity and moisture. The Redefine Rejuvenation Mask is for someone who wants to visibly smooth fine lines and wrinkles, improve the appearance of firmness, and moisturize skin over time.

Why? The bubbling gel-foam formulation includes Jojoba beads to buff off any dry, scaly spots to prepare skin for super hydrating 3D3P technology to draw in and lock hydration onto skin for immediately smoother, younger-looking skin.

Reverse Radiance Mask: Ready for Radiance

Who? Are you noticing skin dullness, uneven skin tone or excessive pigmentation due to unprotected exposure to the sun?

Why? This golden metallic mask uses turmeric to visibly even skin tone and glycolic acid for smoother and brighter-looking skin—plus you’ll feel like a golden goddess while you use the Reverse Radiance Mask. Our proprietary Retinal-MD Vitamin A technology—the highest potency available without a prescription—will visibly smooth and firm the skin.

Unblemish Clarifying Mask: Blemishes Begone

Who? Do you have excessive oil, clogged pores, breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, acne or blemishes? Banish those blemishes! See more balanced skin in just 10 minutes with the Unblemish Clarifying Mask.

Why? The active 10% sulfur dries down excess oil and acne blemishes, and tea tree helps purify and refresh skin. Oat bran extract smooths and reduces visible redness and blotchiness associated with breakouts. Be sure to stay away from eyes and keep towel by the sink as you rinse thoroughly.

Recharge Detox Mask: Best for Skin Detox

Who? Do you see clogged pores, dull skin and dryness, and you want to detoxify and degrease the skin without leaving it dry and parched?

Why? This unique mask combines charcoal to detoxify and draw out impurities, and volcanic sand to exfoliate, revealing a radiant complexion and smooth skin texture. The Recharge Detox Mask helps to nourish and balance skin by both breaking down excess oil and depositing antioxidant-rich conditioning coconut and avocado oils, and mango seed butter.

Soothe Rescue Mask: Save Irritable Skin

Who? Do you have skin that feels dry, tired, red, irritated, sensitive or taxed from the environment (wind, heat, sun, cold)? The Soothe Rescue Mask is for anyone that believes that their skin needs some TLC.

Why? This green facial mask contains hydration-attracting glycerin to help maintain the protective moisture barrier, plus calamine and other botanicals to neutralize or help visibly calm skin.

How Do I Use a Facial Mask With My Current Skincare Routine?

Your mask can fit easily into your skincare routine morning or night—plus you can use it while you brush your teeth or take care of other things—multi-masking at its finest! First, remove all your makeup, then cleanse with your Regimen’s face wash. Be sure to pat your face dry before applying the mask. Keep it on for 10 minutes then rinse and continue with your regular routine.

Can I Blend Two Facial Masks Together?

It might seem tempting to make your masks do double time by blending them together, but blending formulas reduces the effectiveness since now you have 50% of the formulation. Also, mask formulations are not created to be combined—each one is tested for safety, effectiveness, and stability by itself and not with additional ingredients.

But there is another way that you can mix and mask! Apply each mask on a separate area of your face. For instance, if you have occasional breakouts on the chin but dry skin with lines and wrinkles, we have your combo. Apply Unblemish Clarifying Mask on the chin and Redefine Rejuvenation Mask on the remainder of your face and neck. What if your skin looks dull and has discoloration, but your nose has clogged pores? Apply the Recharge Detox mask to the nose and Reverse Radiance Mask on the other areas. Get creative and have fun with it!

Guide to using multiple facial masks.

Tips for Your Best Results

  • Apply enough product so that you cannot see your skin through the product.
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water, keep a towel nearby and your eyes closed, and be sure to clean the nasal folds.
  • Don’t overwork your skin. Skin might be more vulnerable with masking, so refrain from using the AMP MD micro-exfoliating derma roller or the Pore Cleansing MD System prior to or after masking.
  • Make a date with yourself! Mark your calendar so that you remember to find some relaxation time and better-looking skin once to twice a week.
  • A skincare facial mask cannot replace your skincare Regimen. For your best results, use the Regimen twice daily to get and keep great skin. A two to three-times-a-week mask application does not provide a multi-faceted solution for your primary skin concern but remember that it can boost results or address a secondary issue.
  • Your skin changes with time, through the seasons, and your lifestyle choices, so be open to expanding your mask choices. Soothe Rescue Mask should be a staple for any vacation since it addresses irritation and dryness from travel.
  • Exfoliating helps get rid of a layer of dead skin cells and allows the ingredients in your mask to get to the surface cells and pores easier. We recommend using Enhancements Micro-Dermabrasion Paste.
  • Take 10 for yourself—that’s all you need! Leaving a mask on for an extra-long time doesn’t ensure it will work better. Be sure to follow the directions on the packaging and set your cell phone timer.
  • All in all, make the application your own and alternate masks through the seasons and as you age.     Unmask healthier-looking skin!

Written by Mary Radford, RN

Mary Radford, RNBA, has an extensive background in Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, and Aesthetic Spas. She worked side by side with Dr. Katie Rodan as a Registered Nurse in her dermatology office before being recruited to Rodan + Fields in 2004, where she currently focuses on Field Education + Tools.

 

*All referenced results are based on an 8-week U.S. clinical and consumer study.

Learn more about Rodan + Fields  and how you can get your most radiant skin ever. Trust your skin’s glow to the Doctors and to your consultant who knows how to help you get your skin glowing.

Results may vary depending on multiple factors: age, gender, skin type and condition, concomitant products used, health history, location, lifestyle, and diet.

Share this with friends or family members. It will save their skin — and boost their confidence.

PM me for the best options to suit your budget 🙂

*information is taken from The Skincare Source.

Send Me a Message

How to Choose Between Tinted Moisturizer & Foundation

How to Choose Between Tinted Moisturizer & Foundation

by | Sep 2, 2022

Skin Exfoliation is important

A few decades ago, your only option for covering up uneven (and maybe breakout-prone) skin was a thick, cakey foundation. These days, there are a lot more options when it comes to coverage, from high-quality foundations to smooth, silky tinted moisturizers. But what are the pros and cons of each, and how can you decide which one is right for your skin? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Tinted Moisturizer?

A tinted moisturizer is a moisturizing makeup product used for light to medium coverage. “A tinted moisturizer is meant to enhance one’s complexion and is not designed to be used as a moisturizer in your regular skincare routine,” explains Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Michele Green.

In other words, while it offers moisturizing benefits on top of coverage, it shouldn’t replace your regular moisturizer.

Benefits of tinted moisturizer

One of the top benefits of a tinted moisturizer is that on top of providing light to medium coverage, it will also moisturize your skin. “Most formulas are packed with humectant moisturizing ingredients,” explains Dr. Green. “Humectants draw moisture from the atmosphere and encourage moisture retention within the skin, providing a hydrating effect and a radiant, healthy glow.

Cons of tinted moisturizer

The only real con to a tinted moisturizer is that it won’t offer heavy coverage. So if you’re looking for more coverage, you might want to opt for a foundation.

What type of skin is it suitable for?

According to Dr. Green, tinted moisturizers are suitable for all skin types. “Tinted moisturizers are available in varying finishes and formulas, meaning that no matter what skin type you have, there is a tinted moisturizer that will suit your skin,” she explains. “Individuals who have oily skin and are prone to acne breakouts should select a tinted moisturizer that is non-comedogenic. If a skincare product is labeled as non-comedogenic, it indicates that it won’t clog the pores, helping to prevent acne breakouts from occurring. Those who have dry skin should instead opt for a tinted moisturizer that contains hydrating skincare ingredients.”

Not sure what type of skin you have? “To determine your skin type, wash your skin with a gentle cleanser. Without applying any skincare products, your natural skin texture and tone will give you clues as to what skin type you have,” suggests Dr. Green. “Check the appearance of your skin several hours after washing. If you’re shiny, you have oily skin. If you’re flaky, red, or irritated, you have dry skin. Having patches of oily and dry skin means that you have combination skin. Normal skin won’t be dry or flaky but will look and feel hydrated and healthy.”

What is Foundation?

Foundation is a makeup product meant to provide a base, or foundation, for the rest of your makeup. “Foundation provides medium to full coverage and creates an even-toned complexion,” explains Dr. Green.

Stumped as to what the difference between tinted moisturizer and foundation is? Here’s everything you need to know.

Benefits of foundation

The main benefit of foundation, according to Dr. Green, is that “it will provide full coverage and help to camouflage the appearance of areas of facial hyperpigmentation such as age spots that a product like a tinted moisturizer won’t be able to conceal.”

Cons of foundation

If you’re prone to breakouts or acne, it’s important to be very careful when choosing a foundation, because the wrong foundation can worsen any existing issues related to breaking out.

“Individuals who are prone to acne may find that many foundations cause comedonal acne as a result of the pores becoming clogged,” explains Dr. Green. “Individuals with dry skin may notice that many foundations make their skin appear flaky and uneven. The key to preventing skin irritation and acne lesions from developing is to find a foundation or tinted moisturizer that caters to the unique needs of your skin type.”

What type of skin is it suitable for?

Foundation is suitable for all skin types, according to Dr. Green, but it’s important to carefully read ingredients to make sure the foundation you choose won’t irritate your skin, cause breakout, the list goes on.

Final Thoughts on Tinted Moisturizers vs Foundation

So, is tinted moisturizer better than foundation, or vice versa? Dr. Green says it’s not as simple as that — it all comes down to your preference around use of makeup, both from a coverage and skincare perspective.

“So long as the product is used correctly and the chosen foundation or tinted moisturizer is appropriate for the user’s skin type, either product is okay for use,” she says. “A makeup or skincare product can potentially cause skin irritation or acne breakouts if the formula of the product is not suited to the skin type of the user. In other words, neither a tinted moisturizer or a foundation is inherently bad for your skin health unless the product is not meant to be used with your skin type.”

*All referenced results are based on an 8-week U.S. clinical and consumer study.

Learn more about Rodan + Fields  and how you can get your most radiant skin ever. Trust your skin’s glow to the Doctors and to your consultant who know how to help you get your skin glowing.

Results may vary depending on multiple factors: age, gender, skin type and condition, concomitant products used, health history, location, lifestyle, and diet.

Share this with friends or family members. It will save their skin — and boost their confidence.

PM me for the best options to suit your budget 🙂

*information is taken from The Skincare Source.

Send Me a Message

How to Even Skin Tone on Your Face

How to Even Skin Tone on Your Face

by | Aug 6, 2022

How to even your skin tone

If you suffer from uneven skin tone, rest assured that you’re not alone. “Uneven skin tone or hyperpigmentation is often characterized by skin discoloration and is a result of an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin and hair color,” explains cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. “This overproduction of melanin often occurs unevenly which results in dark spots and patches.”

While common—a form of hyperpigmentation called melasma impacts approximately five million people in the United States and has a prevalence rate of 40% in some populations—anyone who has ever dealt with this issue has probably wondered how to get even the skin tone on their face. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Causes An Uneven Skin Tone?

There are many factors that contribute to uneven skin tone, according to Dr. Green. These include:

Hormones

According to Dr. Green, hormonal fluctuations can cause an increased risk of hyperpigmentation, especially in the form of melasma. “Many individuals may experience this while taking oral contraceptives or during pregnancy,” she notes.

Genetics

For some people, an uneven skin tone is as simple as a genetic predisposition. “Individuals are more prone to uneven skin tone or hyperpigmentation based on their family history,” Dr Green says. “For example, there is a strong hereditary component to the hyperpigmentation disorder melasma with half of the patients reporting a positive family history.”

Skin Tone

The tone of your skin might make you more likely to develop hyperpigmentation. “Individuals with darker brown skin are more likely to develop an uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation since they naturally have more melanin,” Dr. Green says.

Laser Damage

Sometimes, a dermatologist or other skin expert might use a laser treatment that isn’t suited to your skin, which can lead to uneven skin tone. “If laser treatment is used on a skin tone that it is not well suited for, it can result in skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation,” Dr. Green says. “This is often because the energy or heat of the laser is too high for a particular skin tone and your body reacts by increasing melanin production.”

Steps to Even Your Facial Skin Tone

What can I do to brighten my face? How can I fix discoloration on my face? How can I prevent uneven skin tone? Dr. Green shares some answers to these questions and steps you can take to help even out skin tone:

Step 1: Start using sunscreen

Before thinking about the steps you should take to even out your facial tone, start by using sunscreen to prevent further damage. “Always use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 and above daily and to reapply every two hours,” Dr. Green says.

Step 2: Use a vitamin C serum

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that inhibits melanin synthesis by downregulating the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, Dr. Green says. “This will help fade hyperpigmentation that may appear as sunspots, age spots, and melasma.”

Step 3: Try a retinol

Known for its anti-aging benefits, retinol can help even out skin tone, too. “Retinol inhibits the activity of tyrosinase which helps to lighten the skin while also improving the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, which can help make skin look more even.”

Step 4: Consult a board-certified dermatologist to discuss cosmetic procedures

If you’re not getting the results you want from your skincare products, consider consulting a professional. “Consult with a board-certified dermatologist. Several cosmetic procedures can help like the Cosmelan Peel, Fraxel Laser, AlexTrivantage Laser, Clear + Brilliant, Chemical Peels, and more,” Dr. Green says.

Other Facial Skin Tone Treatments

Here are other things you can do to achieve an even skin tone on your face:

Natural treatments

Vitamin C serum is a great natural treatment option for uneven skin tone. “As a strong antioxidant ingredient, Vitamin C can combat the negative effects of harmful free radicals in the environment that contribute to the development of the signs of premature skin aging, including hyperpigmentation,” Dr. Green says. “Vitamin C also helps to inhibit melanin production in the skin, thus brightening overall skin complexion. Additionally, Vitamin C plays a role in the synthesis of collagen in the skin. By promoting skin cell regeneration and inducing the production of collagen, vitamin C improves both the texture and tone of the skin.”

Lifestyle Measures

The most important lifestyle measure you can take to even the skin tone on your face, Dr. Green says, is sun protection.

“Everyone should wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above regularly because it is one of the best and easiest ways to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet radiation and prevent hyperpigmentation,” she says. “Pregnant women, in particular, should be diligent in applying sunscreen regularly. During pregnancy, it is common for patients to suffer from a skin condition known as melasma. Melasma often results due to hormonal fluctuations and presents itself as patches of skin that are darker than the patient’s natural skin tone. Sun exposure can worsen melasma and any hyperpigmentation so wearing sunscreen is especially important”

Medical Procedures

While you should always talk to your dermatologist about which procedures might be right for you, Dr. Green says chemical peels, laser treatments, and other procedures can be helpful when it comes to evening out skin tone. But as mentioned above, the wrong treatment can actually worsen hyperpigmentation—so make sure to have a thorough conversation beforehand.

How Can You Prevent an Uneven Skin Tone?

The very best thing you can do to prevent uneven skin tone? It probably won’t come as a surprise at this point, but you should apply sunscreen.

“The best thing you can do for your skin to prevent uneven skin tone from occurring or worsening is to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above daily and reapply every two hours,” Dr. Green says. “Sunscreen is great for protecting against hyperpigmentation that is a result of sun exposure. Excessive sun exposure will result in an increase in melanin production in the skin which ultimately manifests as hyperpigmentation.”

Key Takeaways

Long story short: Hyperpigmentation, otherwise known as uneven skin tone, is common—but there’s a lot you can do to make it less visible and protect your skin from further damage.

Reference Pages

https://www.forbes.com/sites/nomanazish/2019/10/31/how-to-get-an-even-skin-tone-according-to-dermatologists/

https://www.kiehls.com/skincare-advice/how-to-even-skin-tone.html

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-to-get-even-skin

https://usa.renskincare.com/blogs/clean-thoughts/5-natural-ways-to-achieve-an-even-skin-tone

https://www.ipsy.com/blog/how-to-even-skin-tone

*All referenced results are based on an 8-week U.S. clinical and consumer study.

Learn more about Rodan + Fields  and how you can get your most radiant skin ever. Trust your skin’s glow to the Doctors and to your consultant who know how to help you get your skin glowing.

Results may vary depending on multiple factors: age, gender, skin type and condition, concomitant products used, health history, location, lifestyle, and diet.

Share this with friends or family members. It will save their skin — and boost their confidence.

PM me for the best options to suit your budget 🙂

*information is taken from The Skincare Source.

Send Me a Message

Skin Purging vs. Breakouts – What’s the Difference?

Skin Purging vs. Breakouts – What’s the Difference?

by | Jun 7, 2022

Purging or a break out?

What Is Skin Purging?

Knowing the difference between skin purging vs breakout can help save time, money, and peace of mind. In general, skin purging is when your pores are reacting to an active ingredient in skincare. Skin purging is basically your skin getting worse before it gets better.

Skin Purging vs a Breakout

Telling the difference between a skin purge vs a breakout can help ensure you are treating the issue correctly. This also helps you stay in the know about your health, how to handle skin issues, and when to involve a dermatologist.

Adding to or making changes in your daily routine can trigger a breakout as your body reacts to the change. Consider these factors first: Have you recently started medication or tried a new food? Is there an ingredient in your haircare, skincare, laundry detergent, or other products that you may have a sensitivity to? Are you menstruating, or going through another hormonal change? Do you usually suffer from acne and breakouts? Keeping a food journal or product log can help narrow down possible culprits of your reaction.

Skin purging, on the other hand, is usually caused by active ingredients being introduced to the skin in new skincare. Purging is basically a symptom as a result of your new treatment. Examples of ingredients that are known to cause skin purging include hydroxy acids and retinoids. Signs of skin purging generally clear or subside within a reasonable amount of time, which is good news for anyone looking for results that come with active ingredients in skincare.

What Does Skin Purging Look Like? – 5 signs

If you are noticing what appears to be a breakout, and are asking yourself “is my skin purging?”, make a list of any changes in your skincare routine or treatments. Yes, skin purging can look very similar to a breakout, but there are ways to differentiate the two. Here are some signs of what skin purging actually looks like.

Small Pimples

Also known as comedones, these are existing clogging pores that will enlarge and begin to make a head as a pimple. Sometimes, there is a mix of blackheads, whiteheads, blemishes, cysts, pustules, and papules where the product has been applied.

Dryness

Signs of skin dryness, flaking, peeling or sensitivity can be your skin purging or adjusting to your new product or routine. 

Redness

Inflammation, signs of discoloration, or visible redness can be signs that your pores are purging or getting ready to purge.

Quick Lifecycle

Signs of skin purging can appear and then disappear faster than acne breakouts. Regular breakouts appear and then heal around 8 to 10 days, while skin purging can disappear much quicker.

Breakouts

Confusingly, breakouts can be signs of your pores purging, but the underlying cause wouldn’t be that of a breakout. Skin breakouts that indicate purging should not be treated with an acne product the same way a simple breakout would be because you are already using your active ingredient.

Is Skin Purging Good?

While it can feel uncomfortable and look like a breakout, skin purging is usually not “bad”. It may be tempting to stop using your new skincare, but sticking with it often allows you to reach your desired results.

Skin Purging Process – How Long Does It Last?

So how long does skin purging last exactly? It depends on your skin type, and how quickly your skin is usually purging pimples. Expect approximately 4 to 6 weeks of these symptoms, and if they last longer, be sure to reach out to your doctor or dermatologist.

Can Skin Purging Be Avoided?

Sure, skin purging can be avoided, but if it means clearer, better skin in the future, why would you want to? Skin purging can be tamed or avoided by not switching up your skincare routine or products, not using drying products, wearing sunscreen every single day, and keeping your skin as hydrated as possible. Our real advice, though? Stick with your new product, especially if your dermatologist is recommending it because the results will be highly worth it.

When It’s Just a Breakout

Sometimes, it’s nothing but a breakout! Likely not something you haven’t already experienced before. If you’ve tried a new product or food that is actually clogging your pores, your skin may be reacting through a breakout. Consider non-comedogenic skincare if you are prone to acne and breakouts, or keep a food journal to identify the culprit of your breakouts. Dairy is a common food group that exacerbates breakouts. Knowing the difference between purging and breaking out is helpful from the start. Always be kind to your skin when there’s a breakout present, applying a gentle skincare face mask or serum and taking a break from abrasive products. Do not punish your skin with an overload of products, which can cause a damaged skin barrier.

Now you are aware of the key differences between skin breakouts vs purging, and the action plan when each one occurs. Remember to always keep skin clean, protected with SPF, and hydrated by drinking plenty of water as the foundation of any skincare routine. Now you can put your best face forward with your ongoing journey in skincare.

Sources

  1. Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research.
  2. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Are Your Haircare Products Causing Breakouts?

*All referenced results are based on an 8-week U.S. clinical and consumer study.

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*information is taken from The Skincare Source.

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