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.

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.

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All About Layering Serums

All About Layering Serums

by | Feb 28, 2022

Rodan+Fields Serums

Stars of the skincare world, serums get a lot of press. And for good reason! What are serums? Serums are high-powered, concentrated fluids that are a must-have step in your skincare lineup. They are formulated specifically to help you achieve various skincare goals, thanks to their active ingredients.

Whether you choose Vitamin C, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, or another formulation, there’s no shortage of formulations from which to choose. If you have more than one skincare goal — anti-aging and acne, for example — you can even layer serums to get the glowiest, most beautiful skin. In this post, we’ll talk about how serums differ from moisturizers and the best way to layer two of our best-selling formulas in the Rodan + Fields range — in addition to answering a few frequently asked questions about serum layering.

How do face serums differ from moisturizers?

Serums are thinner, lighter, faster, and even more potent than your go-to cream. Facial serums are sort of like lightweight moisturizers in that they’re typically a liquid formula. And as mentioned, they boast a higher concentration of active ingredients. When it comes to modern skincare, serums are known for their efficacy. They can help you address specific skin concerns from acne to anti-aging.

How should you layer your serums?

So how exactly should you layer your serums? To amplify your skincare results, you want to apply the thinner formula first. If both serums are about the same in viscosity, then you want to choose the serum designed to target your chief skincare concern first. Then, apply the second one on top.

You want to give your formulas a little time to absorb. It’s best to wait a few minutes in between layers for best results.

Should you always layer serums or sometimes just use one? 

That depends on your skincare goals, of course. While you’re targeting multiple concerns, you should use multiple serums. One thing to keep in mind: You want to make sure you’re not layering serums with competing exfoliants. For example, if you’re using a retinol serum, you shouldn’t use one with glycolic acid or salicylic acid on top. Sticking to a single chemical exfoliant is a good rule of thumb when it comes to applying your serums.

How often should you apply your serums? 
You want to apply your serums every day — consistently — for the best results. Depending on your serum’s active ingredients, you may want to apply at night versus during the day. Retinol, for example, is best used at night—though some formulations allow for daytime use. The instructions on the bottle will tell you whether a skincare product is best used during the day, night, or both.

Should you always layer your serums or sometimes use just one? 
That’s up to you, but to kick off your routine, you may want to layer your serums for a few weeks and then split them up into your morning and evening regimens, respectively.

What are two serums that work well for layering? 

Two serums that work really well together are Rodan + Fields Intensive Renewing Serum and Active Hydration Serum.  Layer Active Hydration Serum on first, then Intensive Renewing Serum for best results.

Redefine Intensive Renewing Serum

Redefine Intensive Renewing Serum incorporates a concentrated and comprehensive revitalizing complex that harnesses the skin’s natural renewing powers to reduce and prevent the visible signs of aging. It’s formulated with Retinal-MD Technology, a form of Vitamin A that’s even more potent than Retinol—but it’s gentle enough for daily use. This serum is best used at night to empower the skin’s  natural renewing process to smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while revealing vibrant, younger-looking skin.

Active Hydration Serum

Active Hydration Serum is a face serum that was created to deliver all-day hydration and boosts the performance of skincare products layered on top. This serum raises skin’s hydration level by 200% after just one use and maintains continuous hydration for eight hours based on an 8-day U.S. clinical and consumer study.  It helps transform dry skin into younger-looking, younger-acting skin. With consistent use over time in your own Regimen, Active Hydration Serum helps increase skin’s moisture retention and improves skin’s moisture overall.

How quickly will you see results when using your serums together daily?

For Intensive Redefine Intensive Renewing Serum, in just four weeks, you should see more refined, firmer-looking, smoother-feeling skin with less visible lines and wrinkles. By formulating Intensive Renewing Serum in single-use capsules, the serum is protected to maintain its stability.

The clinicals for Active Hydration Serum revealed that 100% of participants had an increase in skin’s moisture retention after one week*. A whopping 94% of participants saw an improvement with regard to moisture after just two weeks** .

Happy serum layering!  

*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.

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How To Prevent Visible Dark Spots

How To Prevent Visible Dark Spots

by | Feb 22, 2022

Reverse Regimen

How To Prevent Dark Spots

Skin discoloration, including dark spots, is one of the most common skin concerns women have today. Everyone wants that even, beautifully hydrated, glowing skin—but alas, sometimes dark spots happen. Instead of relying on makeup to cover up your dark spots, why not educate yourself on why they occur and learn how to address and prevent them? In this blog post, we’ll talk about why and where dark spots typically turn up and everything you need to know about dealing with this skin concern. Read on to learn more.

What are dark spots and where do they come from?

Dark spots are the result of an overproduction of melanin in the skin. Dark spots can occur after you spend a lot of time in the sun or indulge in tanning beds, especially without proper sun protection. Dark spots can also occur in conjunction with hormonal changes. These hormonal shifts include those causing acne, since post-acne spots are also considered dark spots, as well.

“Science shows the most attractive feature of a person is even, pore-free, shiny skin. It’s a sign of health and youth,” Dr. Kathy Fields says. The good news is that the right skin care regimen can help you visibly achieve that even color and elusive glow that we begin to lose in our 20s.

What areas of the body are typically affected by dark spots?

Dark spots usually crop up on the face, hands, arms, and chest – all of the places most exposed to the sun.

How to Prevent Dark Spots and What to Do About Existing Ones

  1. To prevent dark spots, proper sun protection is key. Always use sunscreen—don’t forget that every day is a Sun Day, as Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields say. Apply your sunscreen as the final step in your skincare regimen daily and in the morning year-round—not just when you plan on spending a lot of time outside. Remember to reapply every 2-3 hours when exposed to the sun and after towel drying, swimming, or sweating.
  1. Exfoliate regularly. You want to gently exfoliate your skin at least a few times per week with an exfoliant that works well for your skin type. The Rodan + Fields REVERSE Regimen addresses a major skin concern women have about dull, uneven skin tone. “By exfoliating away the pile-up of dead cells and helping visibly fade discolorations, REVERSE clears your skin’s canvas, restoring the luminosity and brightness your skin has naturally lost,” Dr. Katie Rodan says.
  1. Try a dark spot corrector, like  REVERSE Targeted Dark Spot Corrector, which can be used on the face, but also on the neck, chest and hands to target stubborn dark spots or visible skin discoloration. Add this product to any Rodan + Fields Regimen to minimize the appearance of brown spots, dark spots, patches, post-acne dark marks, and age spots. For best results, always apply sunscreen on the area of concern and try to avoid unprotected sun exposure.
  1. Consult with your doctor if you experience hyperpigmentation or post-inflammatory acne spots. For best results, introduce skin brightening products to your skincare routine. Including a spot corrector for more stubborn dark spots can help even your skin tone and get it looking glowy.

Ingredients to Address Visible Dark Spots

“It’s a combination of ingredients in formulas that enhance their efficacy that creates a beautiful, visible change,” Dr. Katie Rodan says. “Some of the key ingredients packed into our formulas include tried and true favorites, like Vitamin C and Retinal MD Technology, developed in-house.”

Together with their scientists, Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields created their own proprietary technology. “We blended 10% stabilized Vitamin C with our proprietary Retinal MD Technology, which is more effective than traditional retinol without the irritation that often comes with it,” Dr. Kathy Fields says.

Multi-Med Therapy is at the heart of all of Rodan + Fields’ Regimens. Multi-Med Therapy combines over-the-counter drug and cosmetic ingredients as the basis of elegantly formulated products that deliver powerful results. Seeing how well a “combination therapy” approach worked in acne, we knew that our holistic Multi-Med Therapy concept would also be effective for other common skin conditions, like hyperpigmentation, sensitivity, and skin aging. Based on their patient relationships, Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields saw how each one of these issues takes a toll on a person’s confidence. This compelled Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields to get to work, creating specific skincare systems, which they refer to as Regimens, to give people everything they would need to achieve the best skin of their lives – and the confidence that comes with it. Here’s to coming out of the dark and to brighter skin days ahead.

*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

All About the Reverse Brightening Regimen

All About the Reverse Brightening Regimen

by | Nov 9, 2021

Reverse Regimen

As they say, it’s a privilege to get older. And there’s no question that certain aspects of the aging process are great, from improved confidence to having a better perspective on life. As for fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots … well, that’s the not-so-fun part of aging.

That’s where the Rodan + Fields Reverse Regimen comes in. Thanks to brightening (and acne-fighting) ingredients that can help reduce signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots, regular use of the Reverse Regimen can give your skin a younger look while fighting the skin’s natural aging process.

In fact, in our clinical trials, 73% of people who used this regimen noticed instantly brighter skin. After two weeks, 84% noticed softer, smother-feeling skin, and after four weeks 70% of people thought their skin looked more luminous. After eight weeks of use, study participants notice effects like less visible dark spots, clearer skin, more moisturized skin, healthier-looking skin, and more.*

In other words, there’s no question that the R+F Reverse Regimen achieves the desired effect of reversing and preventing signs of aging and brightening the skin overall. But how does it work, exactly? We break down how different ingredients in this four-step regimen can help address signs of aging. Here’s everything you need to know.

Cleansing with glycolic acid, lactic acid, and jojoba esters to brighten the skin

The first step of the R+F Reverse Regimen is the Reverse Deep Exfoliating Cleanser, which buffs and micro-refinishes the skin’s surface for a more radiant appearance. But how does it do this, exactly? The physical and chemical exfoliants included in this cleanser help to remove dulling, pigmented surface cells to reveal a brighter complexion and younger-looking skin.

 The ingredients that make this happen include:

  • Glycolic acid, which softens the skin’s texture by gently exfoliating dead skin cells on the surface.
  • Lactic acid, which does the hard work of refining and smoothing out the skin
  • Jojoba esters polylactic acid, which physically lifts and clears skin impurities without the irritation that often comes with this step.

Niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, and licorice extract minimize discoloration

The second step of the R+F Reverse Regimen is the Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner, which softens the skin while minimizing discoloration for a bright, luminous complexion. In other words, you can get ready to say goodbye to dull skin, age spots, and other discoloration.

The ingredients that make this happen include:

  • Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that helps to even out skin tone and minimize skin congestion.
  • Sodium hyaluronate, which is a powerful humectant that helps to hydrate and soothe the skin
  • Licorice extract, which calms skin and visibly reduces discoloration caused by environmental triggers

SPF helps protect and the skin

The third step is SPF, a crucial part of protecting your skin from signs of aging since sun damage is one of the leading causes of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and other discoloration. That’s why the third step of the R+F Reverse Regimen is the Reverse Brightening Defense Fluid Lotion with SPF 50.

This is a lightweight lotion that protects the skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays. The high level of SPF (50), will provide longer, better sun protection than other sunscreens out there with lower SPFs.

Another ingredient is this Fluid Lotion that helps brighten the skin include:

  • Patented RF3 Antioxidant Complex, which helps defend the skin against environmental triggers that lead to discoloration.
  • Licorice extract, which calms skin and visibly reduces discoloration caused by environmental triggers.

Vitamin C, retinal technology, and kojic acid work hard to brighten the skin overnight

The final step of the R+F Reverse Regimen is the Reverse Tone Correcting Treatment, which works to reduce the look of dark spots and brown spots and visibly even out your skin tone.

This formula works so well thanks to the following ingredients:

  • 10% stabilized vitamin C blend, which helps to brighten the skin.
  • Retinal MD technology, which revitalizes the skin and helps enhance natural cell turnover, which helps reduce signs of aging
  • Kojic acid, which visibly diminishes discoloration and helps even skin tone.

Fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots happen to the best of us, and they’re a natural part of the aging process. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to address the signs of aging – the brightening, age-defying ingredients in the R+F Reverse Brightening Treatment are a great place to start!

*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

Vitamin E and Skin Care: Benefits and Products

Vitamin E and Skin Care: Benefits and Products

by | Sep 8, 2021

Dark Spot Corrector

There are a lot of vitamins out there to keep track of. There’s Vitamin C, which is known for being great for our immune systems and promoting collagen production in skin. There’s Vitamin A, which is famously great for eye health (remember always being told to eat your carrots as a kid?) and can help skin health and even prevent breakouts.

Then there’s Vitamin E, a fat-soluble nutrient available in some foods that are also used in quite a few skincare products. But what does vitamin E actually do? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is vitamin E?

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient found in foods like vegetable oil, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables. In the body, vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting it from free radicals and helping to fire up the immune system.

But vitamin E is also an ingredient commonly listed in skincare products because when used correctly, topical vitamin E can be incredibly hydrating, healing, and protective for the skin.

Is vitamin E good for your skin?

Vitamin E has a handful of benefits for the skin. While you should always do your best to eat vitamin E-rich foods—not just for skincare benefits but for general health benefits, too — a lot of people use topical vitamin E, and dermatologists will often recommend it for skin because of its benefits.

Benefits of vitamin E for skin

So what does vitamin E do for your skin, exactly? “Vitamin E is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant skincare ingredient that is naturally healing, hydrating, protective, and soothing,” says cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michelle Green, MD. “Vitamin E is most often associated with its ability to intensely hydrate and protect against environmental irritants and pollutants that can cause premature aging of the skin. It’s also commonly used for treatment and prevention of dark spots, fine lines, and dehydrated skin.” Vitamin E benefits for skin go far beyond a quick fix, which is why it is so trusted in the skincare industry.

Safety of vitamin E skincare products

We know that vitamin E can be a hydrating, beneficial part of a skincare routine. But are there any safety concerns we should be aware of? Dr. Green says that in general, vitamin E is considered a safe skincare ingredient. “Vitamin E may potentially cause skin irritation in some individuals, though,” she says. “Those who have oily skin or who are acne-prone may want to avoid products that contain vitamin E as well since there’s potential for clogging the pores and causing or exacerbating acne breakouts.”

If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, Dr. Green suggests first starting with a moisturizer that contains vitamin E so you can figure out if you have any reaction to it. If you notice breakouts or another skin issue, back off of it and talk to your dermatologist about it. Consider products for sensitive skin if irritation is an ongoing issue.

Products with vitamin E for face and skin

There are tons of vitamin E-based skincare products on the market. “The best way to reap all the skincare benefits of vitamin E is by using a moisturizer or oil blend containing it since vitamin E is soluble in oil,” Dr. Green says.

In addition to moisturizers, because it is easily absorbed in the skin and is very hydrating, vitamin E is also often added to sunscreens, eye creams, anti-aging formulas, lip serum and even some makeup. You might be surprised by how often vitamin E is actually listed in skincare products – you may already be using a product that contains it without knowing it.  It comes in formulations of both cream or lotion to suit your product texture preferences.

Incorporating vitamin E into your skincare routine

Because vitamin E is generally non-irritating and is available in so many products, most people find they can seamlessly incorporate vitamin E into their skincare routine.

“Vitamin E is commonly used in skincare products, and it may already be a part of your regular skincare regimen simply because it’s added to so many products already,” says Dr. Green. “Incorporating the ingredient into your skincare routine can be as easy as adding a nighttime moisturizer with vitamin E in it.”

She adds that the benefits of vitamin E can be further enhanced by using it in tandem with vitamin C. “Vitamin C is a powerhouse antioxidant ingredient. When combined, the skin will be left feeling and looking youthful, radiant, and beautiful,” Dr. Green says.

If you’re thinking about incorporating vitamin E into your skincare routine and have any questions, don’t be afraid to talk to your dermatologist. They can help you address any concerns you might have, and help you decide if it’s the right ingredient for you.

Sources

“What is vitamin E and what does it do?” National Institutes of Health. Accessed 7/27/2021.

Dr. Michelle Green, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist and chief resident in Dermatology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine

Learn more about Rodan + Fields  and how you can get your most radiant skin yet. Trust your skin’s glow to the Doctors and 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