Anew Clean Affordable and Effective Cleansing Brush

Introducing Anew Clean!

The new Anew Clean line of cleansing products offers an affordable cleansing routine to make sure your skin is fresh and free of impurities every single day.

I've been using the cleansing brush every day for a few weeks now, and I can say that it really does make a huge difference. I used to wash my face with just my hands (I never did like using washcloths), and I love using the cleansing brush because its so much easier, and I really know it is cleaning my skin thoroughly. (5x better than hands alone!)

There are three cleanser options to use along with the cleansing brush: cream cleanser and mask, rich cleansing foam and gel cleanser. Choose a cleanser to match your skin type.

Additional cleanser options, such as the incredible micellar water, give even more options for specific cleansing needs.

Check out my YouTube video about the Anew Clean line!

Serum Treatment for Sagging Skin

Sagging skin... it happens to the best of us! As we age, skin loses elasticity, stops producing the firming collagen and skin starts to sag. Trying to combat this sag can be a daily battle.

Skin needs hydration and skin needs to rebuild collagen in order to minimize the effects of sagging. Areas that are most prone to sag include the cheeks, jawline and jowls. Combat areas of unwanted sag with Infinite Lift.

Anew Clinical Infinite Lift Targeted Contouring System lets you contour and combat aging with one action! This contouring serum formulated with Polypeptide Life Complex which boosts multiple dimensions of visible lifting. The concentrated skin tightening formula is applied with a unique roller built to smooth and massage skin.

Infinite Lift also received an Essence award for Black Beauty face products in 2014.

Infinite Lift can be one powerful piece in an arsenal against the effects aging has on our skin. Daily use will work to lift and tighten areas of facial skin. Apply after cleansing, but before moisturizing.

Skincare Game Changers: 3 Leading Skincare Solutions

Avon recently introduced three cutting-edge skincare products: Vitamin C serum, AHA refining cream, and extra strength retexturizing peel. This adds to our already innovative line of Anew Clinical treatment products. These game changers can truly make a difference in your at home skincare treatments.

If the sun and other aggressive environmental factors have damaged your skin, these three products will work to minimize that skin damage, repair collagen and make your facial skin look brighter and smoother!

AHA

Alpha Hydroxy Acid is an anti-aging staple, used to improve the look and feel of aging skin. AHA Refining Cream improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and works to reverse photo damage from the sun. (Wear sunscreen while using this product). AHA is specifically designed to help increase collagen. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps skin is an antioxidant to protect skin from environment damage works to make skin look smoother and clearer, fights inflammation and irritation, and contributes to skin healing. The Vitamin C Brightening Serum has 10% vitamin C to fight damage from the sun, pollution or other skin aggressors like smoking.

At home chemical peel

The Extra Strength Rexturizing Peel pads retexturize your skin for a smoother look. 5 acids, including glycolic acid, hyaluranic acid, and salicylic acid, combine to fight sun spots, fine lines and the texture caused by acne. (Wear sunscreen while using this product). Natural ingredients include cucumber, pineapple, papaya, honey and aloe. This is a highly concentrated at home peel that will deliver big results!

Overnight Microdermabrasion?

My face has been looking a little rough. I don't know, maybe I've been focused on other things and haven't really been taking care of it the way I should? Anyway, I noticed that my cheeks and my forehead especially had this rough texture, like bumpy and red.

I have been wanting to try the Anew Clinical Resurfacing Expert Smoothing Fluid, so this was a perfect opportunity.

Here's my before/after.

This was just overnight. I applied the Anew Clinical Resurfacing Expert Smoothing Fluid all over my face, allowed it to dry, then applied my regular Anew night cream over it. The bumpy texture of my cheeks are clearly improved! I can even feel the smoothness when I run my fingers over my cheek. Seriously.

I just wanted to test this product since I had never used it before. I'm impressed.

Anew Clinical Resurfacing Expert Smoothing Fluid is your solution to problem lines and wrinkles. Make your skin look younger, smoother, and more radiant with this anti aging serum. Exfoliate and retexture your facial skin overnight with the effects (and not the irritation) of a professional microdermabrasion. In 3 days, you'll notice dramatic results and a more youthful radiance.

Retinol is the #1 Wrinkle Fighting Ingredient Recommended by Dermatologists

Retinol is an animal form of vitamin A. Retinoids are used in topical cosmetics and medications. Retinol can help skin cells act younger, work as an antioxidant to combat wrinkles and can increase collagen production. Yes, all that. That’s why retinol is one of the anti-aging skincare industries biggest workhorse.

Tip! When using a retinol skincare product, apply it before a layer of your SPF product to protect you and the anti-aging ingredients from sunlight and UV damage.

The Anew Clinical line has two new products with retinol.

Anew Clinical Line Eraser With Retinol Treatment uses retinol in an amino acid complex to fight wrinkles, and give the skin a youthful appearance. (Remember how I said that retinol makes skin act younger at the cellular level?)

Anew Clinical Line Eraser With Retinol Targeted Treatment focuses a targeted formula of Vitamins C, E and the A retinol to combat deep lines, especially in problem areas like the forehead and around your mouth.

You have heard this works, you may have even seen it works. But how? How does this work??

Well, retinol sort of has a conversation with your skin. I imagine it going something like this:
“Hey skin, nice to see you! How are ya?”
“Hi retinol, I’m feeling a little down.”
“Right then, let’s get to work clearing out the damage and we can perk you right up!”
“How’s that going to happen, retinol?”
“You can start by breaking me down with your enzymes, and I’ll take part in your molecular functions!”
“Will it hurt?”
“Maybe a little, but then you can get back to creating collagen and you’ll feel so much younger!”

I can’t believe I just wrote a conversation between skin and retinol.* But that’s basically how it goes. The retinol and the skin have a little conversation about how they will work together, and in the end, the skin cells feel refreshed and start making collagen.

Here’s the caveat: irritation might happen. Because of the nature of retinol, and how it’s really digging into the skin at the cellular level, irritation is a natural skin response. You will want to start your retinol treatment slowly, and build up over time. Eventually, you may even want to try a prescription strength retinol.

In 1986, Avon became the first to use stabilized retinol, an anti-aging ingredient, in its patented BioAdvance Beauty Recovery System.

Start with Anew Clinical Line Eraser with Retinol Treatment. Apply it all over the face, or to areas of your skin with signs of aging or sun damage.

* See the technical version of this convo, here.

3 Ways to Treat Acne Scars (and 4 Topical Products to Try Before Heading to a Physician)

If you have ever experienced severe acne, you may have acne scars. And, while acne scars do fade over time, sometimes these undesirable acne scars last and it might make you frustrated. It’s not always how you treat acne when you first have it that causes scarring, either. Some people have a genetic predisposition to how their skin responds to acne.

Types of Acne Scars

Discoloration

Acnes may cause dark spots that are pink, red, purple, brown or black. These are actually not acne scars, it is post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH. This is a reaction where the skin produces more melanin in reaction to the acne inflammation. The discoloration will fade over time, but the discoloration can be minimized by encouraging new skin growth. To reduce PIH, exfoliate your skin regularly with a product that includes glycolic acid, use a product to reduce discoloration (Anew Clinical Absolute Even Multi-Tone Skin Corrector), and wear sunscreen because the sun will make discoloration darker as it reacts with the melanin.

Pits & Depressions

Some acne will leave indentations in the skin. This is a result of collagen in the skin being destroyed. These depressions, or pock marks, can have different appearances:

• Ice pick - long, deep indentations usually caused by cyst acne
• Boxcar - a rounded indentation usually caused by destruction of collagen when acne erupts
• Rolling - waves of skin, often caused when underlying layers of skin attach to skin and pull it tight

Growths

Some acne actually creates a chunk of skin growth. Keloid (Hypertrophic) scars are caused by an overproduction of scar tissues in reaction to a wound. Any wound can create a keloid growth, which typically raises above the skin.

 

Acne Scar Treatment Options

If you are in a place where you want to try to treat your acne scars, there are a few options.

Dermatologist or Esthetician Procedures

• Laser - Laser resurfacing surgery is ablative or non ablative. Ablative laser resurfacing (CO2 or erbium) is probably the number one choice for effectiveness, especially for atrophic scarring. However, this is a procedure that removes layers of the dermis through the epidermis, and therefore an open wound that needs care to avoid infection and may cause hyperpigmentation (discoloration). Ablative laser treatments target areas to stimulate collagen growth and smooth the skin. They also do not go as deep.
• Fillers - Dermal fillers are injected into the skin to help lift depression type acne scars and make the skin appear smoother. Unfortunately, this treatment is typically temporary.
• Punch excision -Typically used for ice pick type scars, this treatment cuts out the entire scar, and the remaining wound is sealed together. It can also be used to close large open pores.
• Skin needling - Collagen Induction Therapy is one of the newest professional treatments for acne scars. The procedure punctures the skin with micro needles, which creates tiny wounds that then stimulates new collagen growth.
• Subcision - Sometimes scars will seal into a pucker due to abnormal collagen growth. This type of scar can be rebuilt using subcision, where those puckering collagen fibers are released with a surgical needle, and this allows the scar to regrow evenly.
• Dermabrasion - This treatment removes layers of skin with a wire brush. This resurfacing of the skin encourages skin to repair as it grows back. Microdermabrasion uses an abrasive spray to remove skin layers.
• Chemical peels - Chemicals are used to peel off layers of the skin which stimulates collagen growth and encourage a smooth texture.

Natural

There are a variety of home remedies that have been suggested for the treatment of acne scars. Lemon juice has a natural bleaching property and contains natural AHA, and may work for areas of discoloration. Baking soda may work as a mild chemical peel. Tea tree oil may help reduce raised or hypertrophic scars. Aloe vera is great to help cells rebuild. I’ve also seen honey, which has natural antibiotics.

Topical

Topical, or over the counter acne scar treatments are non invasive. Topical treatments could be anything that stimulates collagen repair, vitamin a, or antioxidant, or treatments specifically formulated to address acne scar issues. Many people would rather try diy acne scar treatments or treatments without surgery by a dermatologist or treatments from an esthetician. The beauty of topicals is that no harm can truly be done, and if the treatment doesn’t respond with your skin concerns, you can proceed to the professional treatments.

• Microdermabrasion .. Anew Clinical Resurfacing Expert Smoothing Fluid

What it does: This product with AHA resurfaces the skin 79% as effectively as microdermabrasion

What the reviews say:

• Chemical peel .. Anew Clinical Advanced Retexturizing Peel

What it does: Using glycolic acids from plant products, these pads help retexturize and resurface the top layer of the skin to make it look smoother

What the reviews say:

• Discoloration .. Anew Clinical Absolute Even Multi Tone Skin Corrector

What it does: DSX-7 technology improves the appearance of discoloration, dark spots and red patches

What the reviews say:

 

• Replace collagen .. Anew Clinical Overnight Hydration Mask

What it does: Hyaluronic acid and shea butter work together to fill acne depressions and encourage collagen.

What the reviews say:

DISCLAIMER: The information provided here is meant for general information and is not intended to replace qualified medical expertise or treatment. I can answer general skincare questions, but for diagnosis, treatment or details about skin health, contact your physician, dermatologist or esthetician.

Reasons Why We Moisturize And Prime

Before putting on any makeup, be sure to moisturize and prime! The prep work you do will make a difference - your makeup will last longer, and everything will be smoother.

MOISTURIZE

Moisturizer should be lightweight and have SPF. Moisturizer has a few purposes - it hydrates the skin and it protects it from the additional layers of makeup. The SPF is your sunscreen protection as well. Allow the moisturizer to absorb into your skin and make sure it is dry before applying the primer.

PRIME

Primer should match your skin needs as closely as you can. Why do we even use primer? Well, primer does a few very important things: it fills in lines and creates a clean surface to begin the makeup artistry, it smooths your skin and allows foundation to blend, tinted primers and color correctors can help reduce discoloration, and primer helps to lock in moisture.

Primer should contain two key ingredients: glycerin and some variety of silicone, such as dimethicone. Why? Well, glycerin and silicone both help to seal in moisture and they work to create a stronger barrier to protect your skin all day. Check out The Dermatology Review's opinion on glycerin.

My recommend? Ideal Flawless Beauty Balm. Why? It's lightweight, conceals flaws, minimizes redness, smooths skin, is tinted in five color choices to help with coverage, has SPF 15 for additional sun protection, and contains glycerin to help makeup stick and stay all day.

5 Healthy Foods for Healthy Skin

You are what you eat, right? We have all heard that if you have a steady diet of candy and potato chips, your health (and your skin) will suffer. So what are *the* best food choices for magnificent skin? I have found three articles that guide us to the top foods for healthy skin: one from a doctor, one from a nutritionist and the third from a scientific dermatology journal.


The first article, What are the best foods for healthy skin? is written by Lawrence E. Gibson, M.D. This article lists specific foods that are rich in antioxidants that will contribute to healthy skin. http://mayocl.in/1Tvm2ES

The next article, by a well known nutritionist, Joy Bauer, details 8 specific foods that directly affect your skin's appearance. In 8 Foods for Healthy, Gorgeous Skin, Joy gives a little bit of the science behind why each type of food helps our skin. http://bit.ly/22Dy1Xg

The last article is a scientific article published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthethic Dermatology. The article, The Role of Dietary Intervention in Skin Disease, provides key scientific evidence for the connection between diet and skin, with references coming from some pivotal skin-diet studies. http://1.usa.gov/1mvl5lb

Using the valuable information from these three articles, I'm giving you a list of super foods that will contribute to having healthy, glowing, problem free skin. Add these foods to your diet, or use them as snacks in place of those potato chips!

• Carrots - Carrots have the antioxidant beta-carotene which does two things for skin: 1. it works to protect the skin against sun damage, and 2. it works to help the skin rebuild cells. Carrots also have Vitamin A, and a deficiency in Vitamin A often presents as dry skin.
• Nuts - Nuts, specifically almonds, are a great choice for healthy skin, primarily because of the Vitamin E which nourishes the skin. 
• Tomatoes – Tomatoes and tomato products (like juice and tomato paste, especially) have lycopene, which works to protect against UV skin damage. And get this - "Human studies have also supported the role of dietary factors in reducing aspects of photocarcinogenesis. In one RCT, ingestion of tomato paste, which is rich in lycopene, was found to protect skin against UVR-induced effects, including erythema and DNA damage." Erthema is sunburn. Lycopene works to actually prevent sunburn!
• Fish - Fish that contains Omega-3 (like salmon, sardines, herring, anchovies) work to generate stronger skin cells due to the fatty acids. Omega-3 can also help reduce symptoms of psoriasis.
• Tropical Fruit - Fruits such as pineapple and papaya are high in Vitamin C which primarily works to defend against free radicals and contributes to collagen production and directly helps with anti-aging efforts.

What are your favorites? Share using hashtag #skinfood and tell us what you like to eat every day!

Facial DIYers: 3 Facial Target Zones for Multimasking

I’ve seen you talking about the multimasking trend, and I know you want to do this great spa facial technique at home. I look for trends, beauty expertise and tools to help you feel beautiful, and I found two articles about multimasking.

The first article is Multimasking Beauty Trend - Face Masks for Glowing Skin by Lauren Valenti, found at Marie Claire.

This article suggests that sometimes trends actually have real value. While some beauty trends can be a bit ridiculous, the multimasking trend actually gives us significant benefits in our skincare routine. The reason lies in the facial zones – the t-zone, the cheeks, the under eye area. Each of these zones is pretty different when it comes to the skincare treatment needed, and multimasking solves that problem in one perfect facial moment. Best of all? Dermatologists use this technique all the time, because it’s effective and efficient.



The second article is Try #Multimasking, An Internet-Spawned Beauty Trend That Isn't Completely Insane, written by  Cheryl Wischhover on Fashionista.

This article links this trend to both clown contouring (it’s a thing) and Asian beauty routines. However, the idea that this is a totally legit beauty treatment was reinforced. It suggests that multimasking works for everyone because making a cocktail of masks allows you to customize your specific needs for every zone of your face.

Pick three mask products that are designed to target three different areas to get the maximum benefits from an at home multimasking facial.

• T-zone - Use charcoal, clay or salicylic acid masking on the t-zone, that area from your forehead down your nose to your chin. These oily areas need the extra oomph to remove pore clogging materials.
• Cheeks - Extra moisture is usually what’s called for in this area of the face. Hyaluronic acid and moisture is the best way to treat exposed cheek area. 
• Eyes – Eyes need a special product because they are such a sensitive area of our face. Retinol will help with the appearance of aging, or you can target your dark circles.

Remember to selfie and tag with #multimasking to share your DIY facial on Insta and Twitter!

Types of Facial Cleansers

Liquid/Gel

Liquid/gel based facial cleanser is simple and effective. It usually comes in a pump, and when combined with water, will work into a lather. Acne cleansers often come in a liquid or gel form, but include acne fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

Cream

Cream facial cleansers have a thick consistency. There are foaming cream cleansers that can be applied to damp skin and then rinsed off. There are also cold cream cleansers that can be applied and wiped off with a soft, damp cloth. Cream cleansers are not recommended for oily skin.

Bar

Bar soaps that are specifically designed for facial use are the best choice. Other bar soaps are going to be too drying for the facial skin. The Neutrogena original transparent facial bar is the most well known facial bar soap product. The biggest clue that the bar soap is too drying is if your face feels tight after you have cleansed. To counter this, moisturize immediately and avoid using that particular bar soap.

Cleansing Cloth

My personal favorite, the cleansing cloth is a disposable fiber based cloth that is immersed in a cleansing liquid. When pulled from the package, the cloth has moisture and can be used to gently cleanse the face. However, it is important to rinse with water to remove all of the dirt and oil that was loosened with the cleansing cloth.

Scrub/Exfoliant

Scrubs and exfoliants contain physical ingredients that exfoliate the skin to slough off contaminants and dead skin cells. There are scrubs and exfoliant products such as crushed or powdered fruit or nut seeds, salts, sugars, sands, oatmeal, seaweed, and microbeads (plastic). There are also chemical exfoliants that use acids or other chemicals. Exfoliants are great for the skin when used once a week, for example. Daily use is simply too abrasive.

Toner

Toners come in varying degrees of strength, from rosewater refreshing toners to alcohol based astringents. Many dermatologists suggest that using alcohol based "toners" (or astringents) are actually very damaging to the skin, causing severe dehydration. However, a rosewater or similar tonic can have positive contributions to your skin care routine, including balancing pH levels and managing oil on your skin.

Mask

Masks are so quintessentially spa, with the image of a delicious product slathered all over our face while we relax comfortably to the sound of running water or crystally new age music. There are also an infinite number of types of masks, including clay, cream, dry and peel, warmed, and cream or gel. Each of these could have a myriad of ingredients targeting specific skin concerns, so it is important to identify the purpose of the mask and follow directions carefully. There is even a new trend of multimasking where different masks are applied to different areas of the face to address multiple concerns simultaneously. That said, masks can really be wonderful tools when you have to freshen your facial skin for a big event, or manage a specific issue with some frequency.

Brush

The brush. It was the newest thing in skin care a few years ago, and you either love it or you hate it. The facial cleansing brush is motorized, and the brushes help to slough dead skin cells, reduce acne and increase blood circulation.

Skincare Focus: Cleanse

Wash your face every day, but use a gentle cleanser so natural moisture is not stripped away. There is no need to wash more than once a day unless you have gotten particularly dirty (with sweat, dirt, sunscreen, or environmental yucks). I like using a clean washcloth to dry off with. You can use a hand towel, but I find it easier to store clean washcloths right by the sink - I throw it right in the laundry and get a fresh one the next day - and it's big enough to do the job!

Cleansers remove oil, makeup and dirt

• Elements cleansers
• Anew cleansers
• Clearskin cleansers

Sweat clogs pores

Be sure to cleanse! Exercise and sweating is actually GREAT for your skin, as it helps remove toxins. Unfortunately, after you cool down, if sweat remains on your skin, it can contribute to pores getting clogged which can lead to acne issues. Find a cleanser. The best thing to do is cleanse your face before you exercise and after you exercise. You should cleanse before because leaving makeup on your skin can prevent the sweat from excreting and can block pores. You should cleanse after because the sweat accumulates and can clog pores or contribute to infections.

Keratolytics (acne treating ingredients)

Certain ingredients in cleansers and masks are keratolytics, which help to loosen the dead skin cells and hardened materials trapped inside pores.

• salicylic acid
• benzoyl peroxide
• glycolic acid

Why Facial Masks?

Regular cleansing is super important to help keep your skin clean and healthy. So why bother using a facial mask?! Here's why: When you cleanse your skin every day, you are removing makeup, dirt and other impurities from the SURFACE of your skin. Cleansing removes the oil build up, makeup we wear and other dirt and particles from the epidermis. But, the epidermis has multiple layers (5, in fact!). Mask once a week to avoid overcleansing, which can actually produce more oils!

Facial masks help do three key things in addition to cleansing:

1. Facial masks exfoliate dead skin cells from the epidermal layers. Exfoliating revealing the healthy skin cells below. 
2. Facial masks invigorate the skin and encourage blood flow, and that increased circulation will also give you a healthy glow. 
3. Facial masks will unclog pores, allowing cleansers to remove the built up oils and dead skin cells that have accumulated.

Facial Masks

• Clearskin® Pore Penetrating Black Mineral Mask
• Clearskin® Professional Liquid Extraction Strip
• Planet Spa Amazonian Treasures Hydrating Face Mask with Brazilian Acai and Berries
• Planet Spa Perfectly Purifying With Dead Sea Minerals Face Mask

Acne Solutions

Nobody wants acne. But so many of us have it. And, honestly, acne is probably one of the most common skin problems we all face.

Acne is caused by infected hair follicles. The sebaceous gland creates sebum, which is an oily, waxy substance. When the hair follicle pore becomes clogged with dirt or dead skin cells (keratin), the sebum cannot be excreted and becomes susceptible to bacteria. This can develop into an infection, which creates acne in several different forms. There are MANY things that can cause the infected hair follicle: dead skin cell build up, hormones, a greasy environment, even stress.

If acne is severe, a dermatologist should be consulted because it might be a factor related to something else, or the dermatologist can provide a prescription topical or oral medication for the acne. Over the counter (OTC) products can help mild acne or occasional breakouts. Active OTC ingredients that have been proven effective for acne include Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. It is the ingredients that help solve acne problems, not scrubbing. If you have acne, avoid scrubbing or even exfoliating too frequently because that can damage the skin and actually make the acne worse.

Daily, consistent skincare is a lifestyle treatment for acne. In addition to diet and stress reduction to help control acne, cleansing and treating your facial skin will consistently keep the sebum production under control and help solve acne flare ups.

Enlarged pores are follicles that have been clogged with sebum, which makes the pore dilated, so it looks larger and more visible. (Pores are always open and present, but they usually don’t look visibly open.) Oily or oil producing skin makes pores look larger, so reducing the oil will contribute to a smoother looking skin. Cleanse with a gentle cleanser, preferably one with salicylic acid to exfoliate the pore and the skin’s surface. TRY Clearskin® Professional Deep Pore Cleansing Scrub with Salicylic Acid  Moisturize with a lightweight lotion, not a cream. TRY Anew Vitale Day Lotion SPF 25  

Blackheads are open comedones which are filled with sebum and keratin at the opening. The “black” is not dirt, it is actually the melanin that is present in the sebum and when it is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns darker.

Pores can be extracted, but this should really be done by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist, as extractions can damage the skin or push bacteria further into your pores. Instead, TRY Clearskin® Professional Liquid Extraction Strip  OR Clearskin® Pore Penetrating Black Mineral Mask  Kerotolytic ingredients, like benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid and salicylic acid, work to soften and loosen the keratin sitting in your pores. TRY Clearskin® Blackhead Eliminating Daily Cleanser

Whiteheads and pimples are closed comedones that have trapped bacteria and are inflamed and swollen from infection. Once a whitehead has developed, it becomes more difficult to treat. The best thing is to work to prevent closed comedones by cleansing daily. Whiteheads should never be “popped” at home; pins or extractors can never be sterilized enough and will cause bacteria to spread and contribute to skin scarring. Severe acne can be treated by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist.

Papules and pustules are more infected versions of pimples. As the bacteria increases, white blood cells attempt to destroy it, which can lead to further swelling and inflammation. Pustules may even have a yellow center. The white gunk that oozes from a large broken pimple is pus, which is a delightful combination of dead skin cells, bacteria and infection. TRY Clearskin® Blemish Clearing Overnight Treatment I also use a spot treatment of tea tree oil on painful whiteheads. Dip a cotton swab into the tea tree oil and apply directly onto the pimple area on freshly cleansed skin.

 

Milia are hardened chunks of keratin that are trapped just below the skin’s surface. They look like tiny pimples, but they do not look red or inflamed, don’t increase in size and do not go away like a pimple might over time. While the best way to remove these is with lancing at an esthetician’s office, milia can be reduced with microdermabrasion and prevented with daily cleansing and a sunscreen (because sun damage is a contributor). If the milia are really bothersome but you don’t want to head to the esthetician, TRY Anew Clinical Resurfacing Expert Smoothing Fluid

 

Nodules and cysts are buried beneath the skin’s surface. Nodules are hard spots of keratin, and cysts are filled with pus under the skin. Both can hurt! If you have nodules or cysts you really should be seeing a dermatologist for treatment. For severe acne treatment at home, but you cannot afford a recommended product such as Proactiv, TRY Clearskin® Professional Acne Treatment System 

 

Damage done? If you have been cursed with severe acne, or you used extraction methods that left scarring, you may have acne marks, redness, acne scars, or pick marks. Your skin has essentially been damaged, and it can take some serious effort to make your skin smooth and elastic again.

• Texture problems? Skin texture can look bumpy, uneven or leathery. TRY Anew Clinical Advanced Retexturizing Peel with Glycolic Acid . It is like having a glycolic peel at home!

• Discoloration or hyperpigmentation? Redness or other discoloration of the skin can occur after acne breakouts. TRY Anew Clinical Absolute Even Multi-Tone Skin Corrector . The advanced formula reduces the look of 7 types of discoloration: dark spots, uneven skin tone, post acne marks, brown patches, blotchy red patches, freckles, and sallowness.

• Acne scars? Do you have visible acne scars that appear like enlarged pores, craters or keloids? Microdermabrasion can work to correct the visibility of scarring, but if you aren’t ready to head to your esthetician for that, TRY Anew Clinical Resurfacing Expert Smoothing Fluid . It is 79% as effective as a professional microdermabrasion.

After treatment, help your skin rebuild collagen and elasticity with Anew Clinical Overnight Hydration Mask which includes encapsulated hyaluronic acid.

Incredible Skincare Solutions, Backed by scientific research

Taking care of your skin can lead to more than just a glowing face; it can help boost your self esteem, and radiate confidence! Regular care of your skin, especially facial skincare, can make a difference.

Avon Skincare Institute

The Avon Skincare Institute is leading skincare research. Skincare scientists are going beyond the beauty industry to explore genetics, botanical ingredients, and sleep research. Avon, as a company, has been a leader in skincare research for decades. (Did you know that it was Avon that brought AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) to the beauty industry?) Avon has a global research and development team of over 200 scientists, working to continue innovative skincare and aging research and bring breakthrough skin cleansers, treatments and moisturizers to you.

We truly care about women feeling good from the inside out.

Current Industry Research

Just this month, August 2015, Avon scientists have presented breakthrough anti-aging skincare research at the summer conference of The American Academy of Dermatology. The research is centered around a protein called “dynein” (pronounced dye-neen) which has to do with transporting nutrients and mitochondria within skin cells. Additional research is focused on autophagy, which is related to how cells remove damage. Both denein and autophagy decline as we age, leading to lines and wrinkles. This kind of research is innovative, and will contribute to the continued development of anti-aging skincare products. Read more here: Avon Scientists Present Research Behind Groundbreaking Anti-Aging Discovery at Summer Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology

Anew Skincare Specialist

I have worked to become an Anew Skincare Specialist with Avon, and my training allows me to recommend Anew products to you based on your skincare needs. There are several Anew lines of skincare, from Vitale to Reversalist to Platinum to Ultimate that will each address specific skincare concerns. In addition, Anew Clinical products have specific targeted solutions! Avon’s latest skincare product, Anew Power Serum, was inspired by Nobel Prize winning research.

Seriously, Serums.

Target all signs of aging and Boost treatments and moisture

Serums are powerhouses for skincare. The secret to serums is that the moisturizing ingredients, like oils, have been removed, so that the serum is a concentration of active anti-aging ingredients. Serums contain smaller molecules which allows them to absorb into the skin more efficiently. Emollients or moisturizer carriers have larger molecules, so they function more as a barrier to lock in moisture.

The finer molecules allow the anti-aging ingredients to deliver more potent results. That's what makes serums a powerhouse.

Serums should always be applied to cleansed skin. Serums do not replace your skincare, they work to enhance what you are currently using. Because they are concentrated, they do not carry the moisturizing element that you still need, so continue to moisturize as you normally would. Plus, that serum will improve the absorption of the moisturizer, enhancing the anti-aging benefits.

Imagine a serum that can detect where additional skin treatment is needed, plus a boost that amplifies your current skincare regimen. Anew Power Serum is lightweight, and designed to be used in conjunction with existing skincare because it focuses on the visible damage to skin and delivers anti-aging results. It is a general treatment that helps with smoothing, coloration, lines & wrinkles and sagging.

The inspiration for Anew Power Serum originated with the 2013 Nobel Prize award for Physiology research in cellular transport

I participated in an online Chat with Anew Power Serum Innovator Pradeep Yadav on August 25th, and he offered some insight into the chemistry of this incredible formula! He shared that the Anew Power Serum is concentrated to really target and deliver maximum anti-aging results. It is definetely meant to be used in conjunction with all other regimen, including after cleansing, and before any other targeted treatments, and under moisturizer. It boosts the benefits of the moisturizer, day and night. Again, this Power Serum boosts your current regimen, so that makes it suitable for layering. This is definitely a unique serum!

Summer Skincare Workshop

This is information archived from my Summer Skincare Workshop Facebook event on June 28th. 

My Skin Story

For a long time, I never did anything for my skin. Like, I would clean my face of course, but I never wore moisturizer or makeup. Then I realized that my skin was getting damaged.

Everyone was always yelling at me to wear sunscreen in the summer (which I did!) but it didn't matter. I would burn to a bright lobster red anyway... it didn't matter how much sunscreen, what SPF or how frequently I reapplied it... Red. And after the burn and the red... peeling. Not fun.

My face wasn't much better. That was also red all the time. I would flush (it sort of looks like blushing) but it was more than just embarrassment; my face would flush red in reaction to almost anything: cold, heat, changes in temperature, alcohol, and, yes, adrenalin. So I started wearing makeup to cover the red. I actually would shop for a concealer with a green tone and slather that on my cheeks and neck to cover the red. (Color theory: green and red are opposite on the color wheel and green neutralizes the red.) After I realized that product (!) could actually help my appearance and confidence, I started paying more attention to my skin.

7 Things That Damage Skin

Skin Type Tissue Test

SPF and Photoaging

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor.  For basic protection, SPF 15 is ideal. Higher SPFs only offer a small percentage more of protection. And here's a dirty secret: SPF only protects against UVB. UVA also causes sun damage and skin cancer.

Ultraviolet light from the sun is categorized based on wavelength. UVA is long wave, UVB is short wave, and UVC doesn't penetrate the ozone.

In order to be protected from UVA rays, you have to see one of these phrases on your sunscreen product: multi spectrum, broad spectrum or UVA/UVB protection. These products will contain either a chemical UVA protective ingredient (like a somethingbenzone - there are several - or Ecamsule) or a physical UVA protective ingredient, like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.

Photoaging is the lifetime accumulation of skin damage as a direct result of sun exposure (or tanning UV rays). There is actually a really fascinating anecdotal evidence of a truck driver who has photoaging effects clearly visible on the left side of his face. So, his face is significantly damaged and wrinkled, dry, and rough as a direct result of being exposed to sun on the left side of his vehicle because he spent so much time in the driver's seat! Crazy, right? Google "Bill McElligott".

UVB rays can penetrate the epidermis, is what causes sunburns, initiates the skin to produce melanin and can contribute to skin cancer.

UVA rays can penetrate deeper, into the dermis. Here, the skin's collagen and elastin can be damaged, and over time the dermis thins, causing the epidermis layer to droop and sag.

Sunburns are the initial clue that the sun has damaged the skin. However, signs of early photoaging can also include melanin production in spots (think freckles), the new presence of spider veins, and wrinkles that form around the eyes and mouth. Long term photoaging effects are seen more visibly as deep wrinkles, spider veins around the nose, rough skin texture, and most frightening, the presence of skin abnormalities that could signal skin cancer.

Sun is a significant contributor to skin aging: wrinkles, dry skin and age spots (increased melanin). Most skin damage from the sun happens during the summer. A single, simple way to prevent sun damage is sunscreen. SPF of 15 or higher, apply a lot, reapply frequently especially if you are sweating or swimming, choose one with broad spectrum protections (which has chemical or physical ingredients to protect from UVA as well as UVB). Use lip balm with an SPF. Wear hats, sunglasses and UV reflecting clothing. Make sure ears, neck, elbows and knees are covered. Men, women AND children/ white, ruddy, brown AND black skin all need sun protection (while darker skin have more melanin which acts as an SPF, and dark skin tans more than burns, sun damage is still occurring and skin cancer still is a risk!).

Skincare Solutions

How do you find solutions to your skincare problems? Well, you can:

1. Try your local drugstore, 
2. Look in Ulta, 
3. Browse high end department stores, 
4. See a dermatologist (especially important if you think you have something that might be skin cancer), 
5. Ask a friend about skincare products she recommends!

Photoaging and the Importance of Sunscreen

What is Photoaging?

Skin can be damaged by the sun. Over time, this sun damage creates wrinkles, fine lines, and coarse texture. What's happened is that UVA has actually damaged the collagen in the layers of skin. In addition, "age spots" are actually spots of melanin production as a result of sun exposure!

What are UV rays?

The sun creates ultraviolet light in long waves (UVA) and short waves (UVB). UVB rays are what causes sunburns, and UVA rays are what cause long term damage. Both UVA and UVB can be blocked by a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more.

Slather on the Sunscreen

The bad news is, the sun can and does cause skin cancer. (I have fair skin and I'm terrified of the results of a few severe sunburns in my lifetime.) The best way to prevent sunburns, photoaging and skin cancer is the apply sunscreen liberally. Like, a real lot!

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2015/06/when-you-really-need-a-face-sunscreen/index.htm

Simple Skincare for Men

Skincare shouldn't be complicated for anyone. Cleanse, Moisturize, Treat... right? Men face (heh.. face) some unique challenges when caring for their facial skin. Namely, HAIR!

Facial hair requires shaving, or maintenance. Shaving can cause irritation, dry skin, and other annoyances. Anew men will help avoid those annoyances!

Shave
Shave gel with aloe and vitamin e keeps shaving smooth. After shave with aloe helps the shave feel great.

Cleanse
2 in 1 gel cleanser keeps the oils and dirt away.

Moisturize
Lotion with SPF 50 focuses on the number one factor for aging skin in men: SUN! UVA causes damage to the skin, and this lotion with SPF and antioxidants is a true fighter. For dry skin, men can choose the moisturizing cream.

Treat
Even men's eyes need some TLC sometimes. This will help dark circles, crow's feet or other skin concerns that make you look a little older than you need to.

Incredible new skincare options for men!

Skin Science

Skin, like every other part of our body, is alive. It changes because the cells are always changing. The skin has very unique roles for us – a barrier that protects us from the environment, a way for us to receive sensory information and it helps our body regulate temperature.

Skin has three layers… Epidermis, Dermis and Tissue/Fat.

Epidermis
The epidermis has five different layers, which includes dead skin cells, keratin and melanocytes that determine skin color. It is the epidermis that we can control through skin care.

Cleansing, moisturizing and treating the epidermis can help our skin look its best! 

Cleansing removes the oil build up, makeup we wear and other dirt and particles from the environment. Sunscreen protects the epidermis from UV rays, and also helps to prevent skin cancer.

Dermis The dermis holds hair follicles, sweat glands and sebaceous glands. A diet rich in vitamins and drinking plenty of water contribute to a healthy dermis.

Subcutaneous TissueThe subcutaneous tissue layer is where the blood vessels and fatty tissue are.

5 Skin Types and Skin Care Tips

How you care for your skin depends on your skin type. Is your skin normal? dry? oily? sensitive?

Normal skin is smooth, has few pores and few blemishes. We are not all so lucky, though! If you have been blessed with normal skin, your routine should be daily cleansing, moisture and treat as needed.

Products I recommend: Cleanse with Purifying Gel Cleanser, and moisturize using Instant Radiance Lotion with SPF 20.

Oily skin is shiny and might even feel oily or wet. If a bit of tissue paper sticks to the skin, your skin type is likely oily. Those with oily skin types may also experience large, visible pores. Oily skin needs cleansing and exfoliating to help remove the oil build up. Try to avoid the toner because that might cause irritation. You still need a moisturizer though, so choose oil free. Finally, the extra oils can cause spot issues, like acne, so treatment may be needed to reduce breakouts. When you are feeling particularly oily, remember that oil is a natural anti-aging mechanism for your skin, and you may have fewer wrinkles as your skin ages!

Products I recommend: Try the Refining Scrub and Mask to cleanse and exfoliate, then Oil-Free Daily Moisture Cream with SPF 15. For treatment, use Clearskin Professional Liquid Extraction Strip for extra oily areas like the nose.

Dry skin feels tight, can have a rough or cracked appearance and may feel flaky. Dry skin (called xerosis) can also peel, appear red, or even bleed. Dry skin care routines include a mild cleanser, but the most important thing is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Dry skin really should have two moisturizers: one for day, and a rich cream for night. Dry skin tends to create more lines as you age, so start moisturizing now!

Products I recommend: Anew Clinical Overnight Hydration Mask, which has shea butter for creamy moisture.  It is also suitable for sensitive skin, so if your skin is dry because you have sensitive skin and avoid products, this mask may not have the reactions you typically have, and will rehydrate.

Combination skin can be difficult, because there is probably oily skin on the t-zone (forehead, nose and chin) but the cheeks may have dry skin. Cleanse daily, and then choose a balanced moisturizer: an oil free for the t-zone with moisture for dry areas. Spot treatment might be necessary, too.

Products I recommend: The Moisturizing Cream Cleanser is oil free but has balance for your combination skin. Swipe Clarifying Toner Pads across your t-zone when it’s feeling oily. Oil-Free Daily Moisture Cream with SPF 15 is good for combination skin. 

Sensitive skin can be the worst. Skin may be painful when using a product, and you may experience irritation or reactions like burning, stinging and redness. Be sure to avoid products that contain AHAs, like glycolic acid. Use a mild cleanser and moisturizer formulated specifically for sensitive skin.

Products I recommend: This is hard, because sensitivity can be caused by so many different things. Consider Nourishing Cleansing Milk as your cleanser and try fragrance free, hypoallergenic Skin Revitalize Night Radiance Cream to moisturize.

Ancient Secret to Removing Makeup with Cold Cream

Claudius Galenus was an ancient Greek medical scientist. His studies of the human anatomy were groundbreaking... and controversial! He is also the man who first developed cold cream. much to the delight of ancient Greek beauties.

Cold cream is an emulsion of fats and water. Emulsion is essentially the blending of two liquids that normally don't blend. As we all know, oil and water don't mix! Today, cold creams are typically made with beeswax and mineral oil, which will not spoil like vegetable oil or animal fats. (Ewwww)

If you're thinking what I'm thinking... cold cream is a relic of the past, once the domain of our mothers and grandmothers beauty regime. It is one of those beauty staples that has many uses.

Perhaps the most convenient use is to remove makeup at the end of the day, In fact, that should probably be its only use. Leaving cold cream on your face might dry out your skin. But the chemical composition of the ingredients make it perfect for easily cleansing makeup.

How to Use Cold Cream to Gently Remove Makeup

1. Scoop a bit of cold cream out of the container with your fingers.
2. Apply the cold cream in a thin, visible layer all over your face, including your eyelids!
3. Using a warm damp washcloth, wipe all of the cold cream and makeup from your face.
4. Rinse your face and pat dry.

All clean!

So what's the secret? The formulation for cold cream includes mineral oil to wash away the makeup and beeswax to retain moisture. Ancient Greeks found this secret!