Tag Archives | spf 30

How to Layer Your Skin Care Products

By Skinmedix on November 22, 2022 in Tips

When it comes to layering your skincare products, there’s a right way and a wrong way. In fact, the order in which you apply your products is just as important as what’s inside them. You know the first step to use a cleanser, then a toner…but what comes next? Don’t fret. Learn to layer products like a pro, with our guide to skin care layering below.

Morning regimen order

1. As a general rule, apply your lightest product first. Serums, which can range in texture from liquid to gels are applied first because they deliver the highest concentrated of active ingredients most efficiently. Pick two or three serums that each treat one of your concerns. For wrinkles, we recommend formulations with added peptides, like PCA Skin ExLinea Peptide Smoothing Serum. For oily skin types, look for serums that contain salicylic acid, like Cosmedix Clarity Skin-Clarifying Serum.

2. Use targeted treatments for problem areas next, like Murad Rapid Relied Acne Spot Treatment on that persistent blemish, or cover your crow’s feet with your favorite eye cream. We recommend one with an SPF like SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50.

3. Then, apply full-face treatments, like an antioxidant treatment or acne treatment for the entire face.

4. Moisturize to seal in your other products. Facial oils, like Eminence Facial Recovery Oil can be applied after to any dry spots you find after moisturizing. If you’re using two or more serums under your moisturizer, skip any facial oils to avoid becoming too greasy. Remember, facial oils can penetrate moisturizers but not vice versa, so always apply your moisturizer before a facial oil. If you choose a moisturizer with an SPF, opt for one with UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection with a minimum SPF of 30. We recommend a lightweight, oil-free moisturizing SPF, like Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46.

5. SPF. You’ve heard it a million times, but we’ll say it a million-and-one. Never leave home without an SPF on your face. We’ll leave it at that.

Night regimen order

1. Retinols need to be applied directly to clean skin to be most effective. However, if you have sensitive skin, applying a serum or moisturizer before hand will help the retinol to penetrate with less irritation.

2. After your first layer has absorbed, apply any targeted treatments, like a rich eye cream (we recommend Neocutis Lumiere Firm Riche), or if you have any other spot specific treatments, like Murad Rapid Age Spot Correcting Serum for dark spots and discoloration, now is the time to apply.

3. Finish with a moisturizer. Apply a heavier night cream, like Obagi Hydrate Luxe, for drier skin types. If you have oily skin, opt for a lotion, instead of a cream as they are less hydrating. Many are specifically for problem or acne-prone skin. We like Jan Marini Bioglycolic Bioclear Face Lotion.

Morning or evening, remember to wait for a few minutes between for each layer to allow for the product to absorb. This way each product is able to penetrate and deliver its specific benefits without interfering with the function of the next product layer.

NEW ARRIVAL: Neocutis Journee RICHE Day Balm

By Skinmedix on September 18, 2015 in new arrival, SPF

Love the benefits of Neocutis Journee Day Cream, but want a thicker more luxurious texture? We have your answer!

Journee RICHE Bio-restorative Day Balm Broad-spectrum SPF 30 is a luxuriously moisturizing beauty balm that provides both UVA/UVB protection as well as daily anti-aging benefits. This multi-tasking daily skin cream combines PSP technology with a wild yam extract, anti-oxidants and broad spectrum sun protection in an elegant formulation to help revitalize aging skin and guard against sun damage.

Rejuvenate, hydrate, protect, nourish and revitalize skin’s appearance; all in just one product! Shop NEW Neocutis Journee RICHE Day Balm at SkinMedix now!

See Spot Run

By Skinmedix on September 14, 2013 in anti-aging, Uncategorized

Look in the mirror. What do you see? Dullness, redness, dark spots? Patience is a virtue with these customer-favorite products—but give them time, keep applying, and see your spots fade while the rest of your skin get more luminous! Pick two or three from the list below to use together.

A.M. serum:to brighten and protect Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 30	A.M. serum: to reduce redness or sallow skin NeoStrata Bionic Face Serum	A.M. serum: to smooth and hydrate Sothys First Wrinkles Revitalizing Serum
A.M. spot corrector: to erase dark sunspotsJan Marini Age Intervention Enlighten Plus	A.M. moisturizer: to enhance glow and protectJane Iredale Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream	A.M. blender: to cover and correct blotchiness Dermalogica Cover Tint SPF 20

P.M. serum:to tackle dark age spots Neova Serious Clarity 4X	P.M. serum:to illuminate overnight Dermalogica Overnight Repair Serum	P.M. serum:to improve overall texture Exuviance OptiLight Tone Corrector
P.M. spot fixer:to erase lingering blemish marks Murad Post-Acne Spot Lightening Gel	P.M. cream:to nix dullness Vivite Night Renewal Facial Cream

And don’t forget, no matter what your skin looks like — sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Treating your spots without properly protecting yourself is just a waste of time.

4 Surprises About Your Sunscreen

By Skinmedix on August 26, 2013 in Did you know?, SPF

1. It pays to prep. Sunscreen builds up in your stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin), so if you apply it daily for three weeks before a beach vacation, you’ll be less likely to burn.

2. Some areas need more sunscreen. The areas where the rims of your sunglasses hit your checks are particularly prone to sunburn because the sunglasses reflect light. So are the highest points on your face (your cheekbones and nose). Your nose is especially vulnerable and one of the most common areas for nonmelanoma skin cancers. Sunscreens also breakdown fastest on oily skin, so reapply frequently.

3. Some SPFs are harder to wash off. Water and sweat-resistant sunscreens work because they adhere to the skin. However, this can also make it trickier to wash wash off without leaving behind a residue that can ultimately clog pores and lead to breakouts. Thoroughly cleanse skin by using a gentle scrub with micro beads, like NIA24 Physical Cleansing Scrub, and a cleansing brush, like Clarisonic Mia 2 Deep Pore Detoxifying brush.4. Your sunscreen already works well, but it could work even better. Apply an antioxidant serum first to help neutralize free radicals that get through your sunscreen before they can damage your skin. We like SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF,Exuviance Antioxidant Perfect 10 Serum, and NeoStrata Antioxidant Defense Serum—or switch to a sunscreen that contains antioxidants like Topix Replenix Antioxidant Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 50+.

SPF 101: How to Get the Most From Your Sunscreen

By Skinmedix on May 24, 2013 in anti-aging, SPF

When it comes to fighting the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays, you know sunscreen is a must. But what else can you do to get the most from your sunscreen? Keep reading to learn how to make your sunscreen even more effective.

1. Use an ounce (picture a full shot glass) to cover your entire body at least 30 min before sun exposure.

2. Reapply every two hours and after swimming. Our SPF sample sizes are great on the go! Throw a couple in your pocket to reapply while on a run or walk on the beach.

3. Don’t be deceived by clouds—or cold weather. Clouds only filter 20 percent of the sun’s UV rays which means that 80 percent are still penetrating the skin. No matter what is looks like outside, you have to protect your skin properly.

4. Set your sunscreen with mineral makeup or powder spf, like iS Clinical SPF 20 Powder Sunscreen. Think of it like an insurance policy against skin damage!

Did you know just one serious sunburn can increase your skin cancer risk by as much as 50 percent? Prevention starts now! Shop the full list of sun protection products available at SkinMedix here.

What Skin Cancer Looks Like

By on May 3, 2013 in skin science, SPF, summer, Uncategorized

Pretty? No. But this is what skin cancer looks like, and these pictures could help you spot it. The earlier you can catch skin cancer, the easier it is to cure. Compare your moles to these images, and see a doctor if you find anything suspicious.

normal Normal Mole

A small brown spot that’s symmetrical and all one shade an that hasn’t changes over the years is probably nothing to worry about.

dysplasticnervus Dysplastic Nevus

A.k.a. an “atypical mole.” This tends to be dark with irregular borders. It could become cancerous so your derm will remove it or keep a close eye on it.

actinic_keratosis Actinic Keratosis

This potentially cancerous spot usually occurs on sun-exposed areas (scalp, lips, hands) and tends to look like a raised, rough, or scaly patch.

basal_cell Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common type of skin cancer, BCC forms deep in the skin and looks like a raised pink growth or sore that won’t heal.

squamous_cell Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Look for a reddish patch or wartlike bump that may crust or bleed. Get it checked out pronto—left untreated, it may spread.

Melanoma

The most deadly of skin cancers, melanomas may look geometrical in form and be smooth or raised. These cancers may also have irregular borders. They can be black, brown, gray, white or even red.

Plus, watch for the ABCDEUs. Use this guide to help determine if a mole could be dangerous. See a dermatologist if your spot has any of these characteristics.

A = Asymmetry – One half is s noticeably different shape than the other.

B = Border – The edges are uneven—maybe even scalloped or notched.

C = Color – The mole has multiple shades of brown, black, or red.

D = Diameter – Melanomas are usually big, about the size of a penicel eraser.

E = Evolving – This is any mole that has changed in color, size, or shape—whether that’s over the last month or the past decade.

U = Ugly Ducking – If any of your moles does not look like the other, get them checked.

Did you know just one serious sunburn can increase your skin cancer risk by as much as 50 percent? Monitor your skin for suspicious spots and moles and visit a dermatologist if you notice any changes in your skin. In the mean time, shop our full list of sun protection products here!

Berry Good Skin

By Skinmedix on January 25, 2013 in beauty, skin science

Strawberries and green tea may one day be key ingredients to help treat or prevent skin cancer.

Green tea is especially known for its high levels of antioxidants including vitamins such as vitamin C and polyphenols such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that scientists at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow have used to create an injectable therapy. When administered into the cells of mice that had skin cancer, 40% of tumors vanished and another 30% shrank.

In another study, a group of Spanish and Italian researchers have discovered that strawberry extract added to skin cell cultures acts as a protector against ultraviolet radiation as well reducing damage to DNA. Then, the researchers exposed those skin cell cultures to ultraviolet light that is equivalent to 90 minutes of mid-day sun in the summertime. The study found that adding the strawberry extract, especially at the highest dose, to the skin cell cultures seemed to help decrease DNA damage and help to preserve the cells’ survival, compared to cells treated with a placebo.

It’s important to note that the findings in these studies are only in skin cell cultures and mice, and not in actual humans. More research is needed to tell if strawberries and green tea will actually be viable as a skin protectant (and in what form).

But in the meantime, here’s a full list of sun protection products available on SkinMedix.com!

9 Brilliant Beauty Resolutions

By Skinmedix on December 27, 2012 in beauty, cosmetics

9 Brilliant Beauty Resolutions The New Year is almost here and it’s time to reflect on the changes we want to make in 2013. Just like you, the SkinMedix team has a slew of bad beauty habits we want to break starting January 1. With 2013 finally here, it’s prime time for some beauty resolutions!

1. Quit hoarding old make-up.
As cosmetics age, they become less effective, can harbor germs and bacteria, and, of course, go out of style. Commit to purging your bag every few months and cleaning your brushes and other applicators regularly.

2. Repeat your greatest hits.
You’ve got 608 pictures of yourself tagged on Facebook. It’s time to do some serious clicking and hunt for the photos in which you look the best. If you love the pics where your hair is tousled, make an effort to rock that look more often.

3. Clean your cell phone.
Ever notice that the right side of your jaw has a few more bumps than you’d expect? That could be from all the bacteria on your cell phone. If you have an iPhone or a touch screen, it’s best to pick up a cleaning kit from a store like Best Buy. For other phones, you can get away with using a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol on a tissue and gently wiping down your phone.

4. Don’t skip the SPF.
Even in the winter. And while we’re on this topic: if you skip the protection because you want to look like you hail from Brazil, you’ll look like you’re 15 years older later. P.S. – Schedule that skin cancer screening, too.

5. Try a “beauty dare” once a month.
It’s liberating and can help you revive your look, surprise your man, and unleash your inner beauty diva. Once every few weeks, be bold with some red lips or an elaborate hair piece or nail decals or…you get the point.

6. Upgrade your regimen.
Maybe you’ve been using the same moisturizer since you were 17. That’s cute and all, but now that you’re 27, you probably need a new formula. Not to mention some eye cream. Set aside some time to figure out what you should be doing at your age, and then put your plan into motion.

7. Put a cap on your bad habits.
We all have our vices. But that doesn’t make them okay, especially if you want to look your best. Smoking leads to wrinkles, heavy drinking can dehydrate your skin…don’t make us lecture you.

8. Stop picking.
Your cuticles. The mascara off your eyelashes. Your zits. Whatever it is you feel the itch to pick, keep your hands off it!

9. Get your beauty sleep.
Like you need to hear this? But still, it’s worth repeating since restless nights can wreak havoc on your health and appearance. Try an eye mask if you have trouble shutting the world out.

Spill the beans! Do you fall asleep with makeup on? Have you been biting your nails since sixth grade? Straighten your hair like you’re ironing a shirt? There are tons more great beauty resolutions you can make, from washing your face every night to laying off the thick eyeliner. Tell us your beauty must-do’s for 2013!

Self-Tanners

By Skinmedix on December 21, 2012 in beauty, fall/winter

Have a Tan Christmas

It gets dark at 4pm and even those days where the sun does come out, it’s not as though the rays are letting off much heat. It’s official – Winter is here.

Ever since a bronzed Coco Chanel came back from a Mediterranean vacation in the 1920s and made the tan the hottest fashion accessory, women have been going ga-ga over golden skin. So, what can a girl do to get some color in the midst of all of this grey?

Well, a vacation to a tropical destination is the best remedy. Combining R&R with sun, swim, and sand will infuse that golden hue back into your skin in no time. But remember to use your SPF – although the sun feels and looks great, skin cancer is not so cute. You can find list of sun protection products available on SkinMedix.com here.

There’s always tanning beds, but those have been raised to carcinogen status so I’d recommend that you stay far, far away from burning your body to a crisp in a human oven.

Spray tans can be amazing, if you have the time, money, and a machine that doesn’t malfunction. I’ve heard more than a few spray-tan horror stories – like when my friend came out looking like the old lady from There’s Something About Mary. You’re going for gold, not orange, so be cautious.

In my opinion, the best way to fake a tan is with at-home self-tanners. Self-tanning is a huge business and many major brands are jumping on the bandwagon. They’ve come a long way since the days of streaks, orange palms, and smelly formulas. Here are 3 of my favorite self-tanners that will give you that coveted healthy glow even during these bleak winter months:

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads – Exfoliating self-tanning pads that also halt the aging process while giving skin a boost of Vitamin D. Free of all toxic chemicals including parabens, sulfates and petrochemicals.
Jane Iredale Tantasia Self Tanner and Bronzer – This hydrating, streak-resistant formula gives you complete control and customization over your tan, so you can achieve your best shade of bronze. Tested for sensitivity, it is gentle enough to use on your face and the fresh citrus fragrance leaves an energizing scent behind.
DermaQuest DermaGlow Self Tanner – Body – Provide your skin with a temporary and healthy tan that compliments your own natural skin tone. Due to this formula’s gradual and even tanning process, it reduces undesired streaks.

Do you have a favorite self-tanner?

Talk soon! XO

The New SPF FDA Regulations

By Skinmedix on August 16, 2012 in Beauty News, Did you know?, SPF

Unless you’ve been under a rock (hopefully in an effort to avoid the sun), you’ve likely heard the ruckus over the new sunscreen FDA regulations, that were suppose to take effect this summer. The idea was to make it easier for consumers to pick the best product to protect themselves from skin cancer and skin damage. But just as the summer was about to start, the FDA announced it was delaying the new requirements until December.

“After we published all these requirements, we received data showing that manufacturers wouldn’t be able to fully implement all the requirements until December of this year for most products,” says the FDA’s Reynold Tan.

The new requirements include:

Only sunscreens that protect against both ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet A (UVA) light could be labeled “broad spectrum,” which means they provide the best protection against skin cancer.
Sunscreens that don’t have SPF of at least 15 would have to have big warning labels that say they don’t protect against skin cancer or “premature skin aging.”
Terms like “sunblock,” “waterproof” and “sweat-proof” would be banned. Sunscreens would be permitted to claim that they are “water-resistant” but would have to specify how long they work — either 40 or 80 minutes.

For now, consumers will just have to try to do their best. Some sunscreens that meet the new guidelines, are starting to show up on store shelves. But consumers have to look very carefully to figure that out.

“Make sure that the broad spectrum term appears right next to the SPF number, either directly to the left of it, or right on top of it. And it has to be in the same font, meaning it has to be in the same type size, same color, generally the same appearance as the SPF number,” Tan says.

Below is a list of SPF products tested under the new FDA regulations that are now available at SkinMedix!

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50
Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster SPF 50
Dr. Dennis Gross Powerful Sun Protection SPF 45 Cream
SkinMedica Environmental Defense Sunscreen SPF 30
Neocutis Journee Bio Restorative Day Cream with PSP SPF 30+
Pro+Therapy MD Advanced Ultra Light Day Repair SPF 30
iS Clinical Extreme Protect SPF 30
PCA Skin Perfecting Protection SPF 30
Dermalogica Oil Free Matte SPF 30
PRIORI CoffeeBerry Natural Daily Protection SPF 25
NeoStrata Bionic Skin Lightening Cream SPF 15

For a more in-depth look at the new sunscreen regulations, visit www.fda.gov/sunscreen. In the mean time, check out this video below as New York dermatologist and editor of Clinics in Dermatology, Dr. Gervaise Gerstner, explains the new SPF FDA Regulations.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfkPgeHuP-Y]