Clarisonic: Hot Offer For Great Skin!

Clarisonic. You've heard of it, I'm sure. But maybe you're not sure what the benefits are - I mean, let's face it, we've been cleaning our face with soap, water and washcloth for years. And that seems to be working OK, doesn't it? Yeah, I thought so, too. And then I was introduced to the Clarisonic. I was a changed woman. (and you can be, too!)

The Clarisonic is a sonic skin cleaning system that removes makeup, pollution and helps you fight the aging process. How much better is it than washing manually? Six times! That's pretty amazing.

However, what sealed the deal for me is the way my face felt after just the first use. It was clean, it was soft, and my serum and moisturizer sunk in so much faster. It was a revelation!

Now that I've been using the Clarisonic for over a month, my skin just keep getting better. Less breakouts (yes, I have adult acne, especially during THAT time of the month), less dry patches (OK maybe no dry patches anymore), which has resulted in a much nicer appearance both with and without makeup. And at 36, it's nice to be able to go without makeup and not feel like a hot mess.

You can get the Clarisonic at many retailers, but beauty.com is running a coupon to save you $15 of a $75 purchase. There are several models of Clarisonic, but I believe the $99 Mia, is great and is what I use.

If you've been on the fence about trying the Clarisonic out, now is a great way to check it out at a less expensive price.

Do you have a Clarisonic? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences with it!

September Favorites

Here are a few things I've discovered, rediscovered, or have just really been enjoying the last month. A little late, but better than never!

1. Dry Shampoo - such a time saver! I'm pretty much in for all dry shampoos I've tried, but current faves are Oscar Blandi and Keratin Complex. One's a powder formula that you shake on, the other is a spray. Both work nicely and smell good. Just make sure you brush well after applying to remove any white cast. Or, try Batiste's dry shampoo for dark hair. I'm pretty sure you can get all of these at Ulta shops or online.

2. Jordana's Twist and Shine Balm Stains - so cheap, so pretty. Available in so many colors at Walgreens, these balms leave a slight stain on lips. For a balm, they have a huge color payoff. (Not as much with the lightest shades, though) I love the amount of moisture they give lips. I've been loving Honey, but there's a Cranberry color I'd like to try this month.

3. Rose Jam shower gel from Lush. Oh my. It smells SO good. Like Roses, but better. A hint of lemon. Sweet, but not overly so. It's heaven in a bottle. And it moisturizes with argan oil. Not too heavy. Just right. And did I mention it smells awesome?! Sadly, it's limited edition, so you must go now to get yours. I believe it's available through Christmas and that's it. Stock up, everyone. It's that good.

Fight Flaky Dry Skin

While the changing of the seasons from summer into fall feels great, it can be stressful to our skin. Sometimes moisturizer alone just doesn't cut it. If you've been noticing dry, flaky patches on your face (probably in the t-zone) don't worry. You're not alone! And, thankfully, it's a fairly easy fix. 

Here's what you'll need:

1. Your favorite facial cleanser

2. An exfoliating sponge like the one I found at CVS. 

3. A good moisturizer. (A night cream works well)

As you may have guessed, you're going to wash your face with your cleanser and rinse with warm water. Using your hands is fine for this step. 

Once your face is clean, wet your exfoliating sponge, add some cleanser to it and buff lightly in circles in your face. There's no need to be rough. You just want to go over the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin to increase the circulation and remove some dead skin cells. Avoid your eye area, as the skin there is the most delicate. 

Once you've rinsed and dried your face, apply your moisturizer. I prefer to do this in the evenings, so my face has a chance to rest and soak up the moisturizer before I put it through the paces with makeup again. 

You'll probably already notice a smoothness to your skin, but the next morning it will be even better. 

Try this once or twice a week, and say goodbye to patchy dry skin for good! Your makeup will look fresher and your skin will be radiant. 

Get a Glowing Complexion

It's getting close to that time of year again, ladies. Time to begin exfoliating and getting some much-needed color on those pretty faces of yours. How should you do it? Never fear, I've got a step-by-step explaining how to take your face from drab to fab.

For a gorgeously glowing complexion:
Step 1: EXFOLIATE
There are several ways to do this effectively, depending on your budget and your preference.

Revision Brightening Facial Wash and a Mia Clarisonic device.


Step 2: MOISTURIZE
Ensure that your skin is as healthy as your glow shows - here are several products that will help:

• Skinfo Vita Lite Moisturizer, packing a rich blend of antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, green tea extract and coenzyme Q-10 to quash aging free radicals before they reach your skin.
  
• Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Daily Serum plus Antioxidant Booster to revitalize dull skin and improve elasticity.

Step 3: SMOOTH ON SELF-TANNER
Skip the embarrassing streaks with Dermaquest DermaGlow Self Tanner- Face—the self-tanning ingredient Erythrulose promises a gradual and even tan. Plus, advanced liposome technology repairs and prevents UV-induced DNA damage.

Vani-T Bronzing Silk ( more on this next!)

TLC for skin during travel

Traveling isn't easy on your skin, but there are some easy steps you can take to keep your skin looking its best during long flights so you land looking refreshed! Dr. Peredo, M.D., F.A.A.D has compiled some easy ways to take care of your skin in even the most cramped of quarters.

Take care of your skin during flight!

Long Flights in Coach: 

• Keep your skin hydrated by drinking lots of water. It also helps with fatigue, dizziness and light-headedness. 
• Bring a travel sized moisturizer for your face and hands to prevent skin from drying, accentuating fine lines, wrinkles and tiredness due to low humidity and cabin pressure.
• Swipe on a hydrating lip balm. Recirculated air tends to dry out lips. 
• Take along a travel size illuminating eye cream to camouflage under eye circles, darkness and puffiness.
• Avoid salty snacks and alcohol which retain water and cause further dehydration. 
• Try not to wear mascara - the dryness causes the mascara to flake and can irritate your eyes. 

Long Flights in First Class:

• Same as above, plus:
• Ask for a cool wet cloth to lie over your face before you moisturize.  Moisturizing while your face is damp will help to lock in hydration.
• Avoid lowering your seat all the way back.  Fluid may retain in your eyes, causing bags to develop. Instead, sleep with your head elevated on a pillow.
  

Caring for skin in humid weather:

Unlike the havoc humidity wreaks on our hair, it is great for the skin, delivering tons of hydration. Skip heavy moisturizers and opt for a lightweight lotion. Always keep skin protected in hot, humid weather – be sure to slather on SPF, especially when exposed to the sun.

Caring for skin in cold weather:

Use an exfoliating cleanser to slough off dead skin cells that are created when your skin is dry and brittle. Wear a heavier moisturizer with a sunscreen to protect your skin from cold winds.

About Dr. Marina Peredo

Dr. Peredo, M.D., F.A.A.D, is a nationally recognized board certified dermatologist with over 20 years of experience.  Dr. Peredo has successfully treated patients with skin-related conditions and is also regarded as one of the leading dermatologic experts for non-invasive/minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.  She participates in many key professional organizations, conducts numerous clinical studies, is a national trainer, speaker and educator for prestigious dermatologic companies and does pro-bono work for beyond our borders.  www.marinaperedomd.com

Dermablend, Dermawonder

I've loved Dermablend products for years. They cover amazingly. And trust me I know, as growing up I had a nasty scar on my face that I tried to keep covered up. Thankfully, I was able to have some scar tissue removed, and you can barely see it now. But Dermablend isn't just for faces anymore! This Leg and Body cover can do amazing things. It can cover varicose veins, tattoos, uneven skin tones, bruises, scars and burns.

Dermablend Leg & Body Cover, $27

And it doesn't rub off on your clothes or anyone else's clothes. It lasts all day or all night, helping you put your best body forward.

With my upcoming wedding, you can bet I will be using this to make sure my skin looks perfect.
Although you can get it straight from www,dermablend.com, I would recommend actually going to their store/counter and let them find your perfect shade for your skin. They offer 14 shades, so women from all walks of life are sure to find a color that suits them perfectly.