Everything She Wants

A few years ago, I was gifted a Foreo LUNA Mini and Foreo UFO. But I was intimidated by the fab and intricate packaging and tech talk that an app connection was necessary for the devices to work. So they remained in my beauty supply closet, pondered but unopened. Fast forward to 2021 and nearly a year into the coronavirus pandemic. Maskne happened. My skin was breaking out around my mouth; not a surprise after wearing face masks daily since March 2020. But I also had a few unsightly blemishes on my forehead.  So I went back to the  battle-ready skincare hacks I've used -- salicylic acid cleansers to combat the acne and glycolic/alpha-hydroxy acid to brighten and banish the blemishes.  My adult skincare routine also includes daytime and nighttime moisturizers packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Day and night, I also pamper my skin with different types of masks chocked full of holistic skin savers like aloe, charcoal, turmeric and black...

According to Mario Bedescu Skin Care Inc , hyperpigmentation is characterized by darkening of the skin caused by the overproduction of the skin pigment, melanin. While hyperpigmentation is usually harmless, it can be a blow to your self-confidence, especially if you're a woman who has otherwise healthy and well-maintained skin. The condition can affect any part of the body including the face, hands and neck--and it's most prevalent in people of color, who naturally have more melanin. Dr. Julia Tzu What are some common causes hyperpigmentation? Heredity Overexposure to the sun Inflammation and skin injuries Hormonal changes due to pregnancy (called melasma) or menopause Medications such as antibiotics, hormone treatments and anti-seizure drugs Treatment options Dr. Julia Tzu, founder and medical director of Wall Street Dermatology in New York City says her recommended course of treatment for hyperpigmentation depends on the cause. "Common reasons ...

As I mature, blemishes and fine lines are my skin's biggest enemies.  So I'm thankful whenever I discover natural products that effectively help me keep a youthful glow. Reviva Labs is an affordable health food store brand that's been around for 37 years and is used in over 1200 professional skin-care salons.  I received a few samples and I've been using Reviva's gentle Glycolic Acid Cleanser ($12) and Glycolic Acid Toner ($12) to help unclog pores and control pesky blackheads and blemishes.  Reviva's glycolic formulation is made with non-toxic, fruit-based Alpha Hydroxy derivatives without mineral oil or any other pertrolatum derivatives. Each night, I also apply Reviva's Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($22), a high-potency daily moisture booster. The professional strength serum helps keep your skin hydrated in dry climates and heated rooms that rob skin of moisture (New York City apartments are notorious for this). Reviva has been a part of my daily skin-...