We asked Stephanie some important questions when it comes to our skin. This is what we found out.
If you're like most of us, we really don't know where to start when it comes to our skin. We trust the professionals, but how do we know they're a professional? Trial and error are difficult when products cost as much as they do. We asked Stephanie to break it all down for us, so we don't feel so overwhelmed.
Trial and error is difficult when products cost as much as they do.
Q: How can we tell the difference between a trained skincare professional and the many multi-level marketing sellers out there?
A: Please do not buy Sally down the streets favorite products for her face because obviously, she has different skin than you. Easy answer, the professional will generally hate MLM companies because they send strangers to skin into the streets to peddle their snake oil. A trained professional holds an Esthetics License they were able to obtain through their state by attending school and obtaining the required amount of hours of in-school learning and clinicals. If in doubt, you can look up any ones license online.
Q: How do I know when my skin issue is caused by my skincare?
A: Not exactly an easy answer question, but there can be some indicators - feeling dry? What kind of acid/ exfoliants and cleansers are you using? Is your moisture enough? Oily? Are the products drying you out so much that your poor stripped skin is overproducing oil to keep up (hint: cystic acne)?
Other issues can be allergic reactions or skin sensitivity. These are not the same. Sensitive skin that isn’t used to acids is not going to be happy if you slap on that 30% glycolic and yeah, you’ll peel or worse. Allergies are when you absolutely need to stop using a product, when it’s allergic to something you’ll continue to get inflamed, maybe pustules, and in general consistently angry skin. There are definitely varying degrees of these.
These are just some examples and skincare issues definitely range because of using the wrong products.
With skincare, the first step is always to determine skin type and build from there to find the balance. I recommend always seeing an esthetician for questions about your home routine if there are problems. We see a lot of things every day and can usually narrow down the issue pretty quickly.
Q: Can I undo the damage that's already been done to my skin?
A: Yes! There’s a whole arsenal of products and services out there to improve and prevent. While estheticians won't perform surgery like a facelift for instant results, we are driven by giving you the tools for results that improve your skin over time more naturally and that last.
Q: How often should I have a professional care for my skin?
A: Usually once a month because our skin has an average of a 28-day cell turnover rate, meaning the old skin needs to be effectively removed, and the new skin needs to be treated. As we age, this can slow down, which makes it even more vital to keep the skin rotation moving to effectively treat and prevent age-related skin issues.
Q: What's a good treatment to start with for first-timers?
A: A 60-min facial so a professional can analyze your skin and talk you through your best options.
Q: What is your go-to product?
A: Hyaluronic acid, it’s for everyone! BUT I have a few favorites I think are mandatory: Vitamin C and retinol are great for almost anyone, they prevent aging, hyperpigmentation and can help with controlling and healing breakouts. AND of course SPF all day, every day!
Q: What's the best thing I can do for my skin on a daily basis?
A: Did I mention SPF? Sun damage is the leading cause of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. So let’s not forget the SPF!
Do you have any questions that Stephanie can answer? Let us know!