Chelsea Burns

<p>DiAnne Davis, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist based in Houston, got interested in dermatology after dealing with adult acne. "My number one skin issue was acne, which I started developing in my 20s," says Dr. Davis. "I had a combination of inflammatory and cystic acne where I would get deep, tender pimples under my skin." She sought the help of a dermatologist and got her pimple-prone skin under control with a combination of oral and topical antibiotics as well as a topical retinoid regimen. </p>

<p>Although Dr. Davis has since switched up her routine (she swapped antibiotics for spironolactone), she still deals with oily, sensitive skin as well as hyperpigmentation and hormonal breakouts. Here's exactly what she uses to keep it all under control. </p>

<h1> She uses a salicylic acid cleanser. </h1>

<p>"It helps to invigorate my skin in the morning."</p>

<h1> She uses a peptide-rich serum to boost collagen. </h1>

<p>"This contains tri-hex technology (a proprietary blend of peptides) that helps skin turnover and the production of new collagen and elastin. Plus, the dimethicone in this product smoothes over my skin like a primer."</p>

<h1> She opts for a "smart" moisturizer. </h1>

<p>"This moisturizer has IQ-adaptive technology that allows for it to adjust to what my skin needs in different environments. This is key for me in a city like Houston, TX where there is a lot of humidity."</p>

<h1> Her sunscreen has skin benefits too. </h1>

<p>"This SPF uses the same tri-hex technology I mentioned above, so I'm getting skincare benefits, plus it matches my skin tone well, and contains iron oxide that protects my skin from visible light."</p>

<h1> Her nightly cleanser uses a mix of chemical exfoliators. </h1>

<p>"This cleanser uses alpha and beta hydroxy acids to remove dead skin cells and gives my complexion a boost."</p>

<h1> She uses a prescription strength retinoid. </h1>

<p>"I use Tazorac and it helps to prevent any new acne lesions and controls oil production. It also keeps my skin tone even and helps build collagen and prevent fine lines and wrinkles." </p>

<h1> Hydration is key for her eye creams.  </h1>

<p> "This eye cream is very hydrating, which is what you want to help with crepey, fine lines under the eyes."</p>

Inside A Derm's Acne-Prone Skincare Routine

Dermatologists prescribe products to their patients all day long, but have you ever wondered which ones they personally use? Welcome to  <strong> Derm Diaries </strong> , a series where dermatologists share their skin woesand solutionsso you can steal secrets from their skincare routines.

Derm Diaries: "I'm A Dermatologist With Oily, Acne-Prone Skin—Here's Exactly What I Use"

<p>I've heard people talk about this fateful daythe one where you look in the mirror and realize your level of tired is reflected back at youbut I thought maybe I could escape it (I'm a a beauty editor, after all)! Nope. And, while you can do a scrub or a peel or a mask to wake up your skin, it's a lot harder to revive tired eyes. </p>

<p>I recently learned about all of the complexities of why this is so when I traveled to Palm Springs as a guest of La Prairie to learn about the launch of its newest product: White Caviar Eye Extraordinaire. (Yes, it's as fancy as it sounds.) </p>

<p>"We found that skin luminosity is a function of color and reflection, but the eye area is different as it has a three dimensional architecture," explains Jacqueline Hill, PhD, chemist and the brand's director of strategic innovation and science. "Light or skin luminosity in this area is not only dependent on color and reflection, but also on shapes. Color and reflection determine the quality and the intensity of light reflected from the skin while shapes create a pattern of contrasts between shadows and light that reveal a third dimension." </p>

<p><strong> Simply put: Because of the curves and bone structure around your eyes, there are shadows that are being created that can leave your skin in that area looking darker (aka more tired) than you actually are. Which is unfortunately what makes it so hard to reverse. </strong></p>

<p>All of these factors combined are what create a more light reflective surface for a brighter, healthier (aka less tired) appearance. "Our skin is made up of two light reflecting surfaces: The surface of the skin itself, but also the network of collagen fibers in the dermis. It's by smoothing the surface and densifying the network of collagen fibers that we increase the reflection of light from our skin," explains Dr. Hill. "Reflection of light is at its best when the surface of an object is perfectly smooth. If a surface is rough, shadows are created and light is scattered back in all directionsdiminishing the intensity of the reflecting light." </p>

<p>Bottom line: All the brightening ingredients in the world won\'t help if the surface of your skin isn\'t plump and smooth.</p>

Immediately after using the eye cream with the rollerball applicator.

<h1> The formula feels as luxurious as it sounds. </h1>

<p>The rich formula is loaded with a few key players that make up the magical triple threat to treat color, reflection, and shape. Golden caviar extract (the signature ingredient found in many La Prairie favorites) increases the production of <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a30271929/what-are-ceramides/" id="2a3499f4-ea25-3919-a1c1-a794db62c161">  ceramides </a> to help boost collagen production and plump the skin. There's also the brand's proprietary ingredient they call lumidose which blocks tyrosinasethe enzyme that creates melanin (what triggers pesky brown spots). Finally, shea butter and glycerin are what make it super hydrating to help smooth fine lines.</p>

<p>The texture of the cream itself is so silky smooth that you'll likely want to rub it over your entire faceit feels that good. It's also super dense so a little goes a very long way. It wears well under makeup, too, so I'm able to apply it morning and night no problem. While it does have a fragrance, it's not overpowering and my sensitive eyes didn't mind. I've been using it for about a week at this point and can already see the brightening effects. </p>

<h1> The applicator is a game changer. </h1>

<p>While the formula left my under eyes moisturized and bright, it was really the magical wand that made me want and remember to use it every day. The ceramic pearl applicator not only massages the cream deeper into skin, but it also helps with lymphatic drainage and increasing circulation (so it de-puffs and wakes up those peepers, stat). I would apply the cream first with my finger and then follow it up with the wand in a circular motion around my entire eyea ritual that I've really leaned into in these times of self-isolation.</p>

<p>When I mentioned earlier that the product was rich, I wasn't just referencing the textureit's also on the pricey side coming in at $550. BUT, if you're someone who suffers from dark circles or constantly tired looking eyes, or if you've tried many other creams with no success, this could be your answer. The potent ingredients and 360 approach to brightening, lifting, and restructuring your eye area is unlike anything I had heard of or tried before. Plus, you can continue to use the magic wand long after you've used up the cream itselfconsider it a gift that keeps on giving. </p>

'This Fancy New Eye Cream Erased My Eye Bags'

Eye cream has always been one of those beauty products I'd use here and there but never as a staple in my routine. Targeting my acne was generally (and, let's be honest, always will be) the top priority so everything else takes a backseat. That is until I looked in the mirror recently and saw dark circles (gasp!) and wrinkles (double gasp!) around my eyesseemingly out of nowhere.

'Behold the Eye Cream That Makes Me *Actually* Want To Wear Eye Cream'

<p>That point about sweating is a big one for the actress as she's realized how important movement is for her mood. "I use activity when I need a boost or am just having a bad day: Ill go for a run or put music on and shake my body. Its like I need to change my physical state of being to get out of a funk, and for me, its way more effective than trying to pump myself up with words." Sweat therapy for the win! But don't be fooledDobrev says that she definitely feels confident after she's gotten a workout in, but also confesses that she tends to resist and procrastinate beforehand"I'm human!" </p>

<p>Dobrev's refreshing and real personality (alongside her glowing skin, of course) is likely what Dior Beauty also saw in the 31-year-old actress when they decided to name her as an official brand partner in November 2019. When asked about the collaboration, Dobrev tells Women's Health that "it was a no-brainer" and goes on to say that she's "been dreaming of becoming a 'Dior girl' since before she even wanted to become an actress. " I traveled a lot and would always see these icons and these beautiful women who I looked up to so much, and so to be in their company is extremely flattering and humbling."</p>

<p>Now that you know her tips for getting out of a mental funk, here are Dobrev's favorite beauty tips. </p>

<h1> She always cleans her skin immediately after working out. </h1>

<p>"As I'm getting older, when I sweat, if I don't shower within five minutes, which is kind of impossible because the gym is more than five minutes from my house, my pores have been getting clogged and my skin has been getting really weird. One of the things I do is I have makeup wipes in my car and in my purse and in my travel kit, everywhere. As soon as I do a workout I clean my face right away."</p>

<p>"Im constantly on the go, and have to multitask, so I keep products in my shower, and Im not just washing my hair and bodyI have a whole routine. I also brush my teeth and wash my face. The hot water opens the pores, so when I use my <a href="https://www.dior.com/en_us/products/beauty-Y0996419_C099600419-capture-totale-c.e.l.l.-energy*-high-performance-gentle-cleanser?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwoDvzJ2E6AIVBKSzCh3UGA_ZEAQYASABEgLyMfD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" id="61b27bb6-efe6-3cda-a885-805fb2e57ac7">  Capture Totale C.E.L.L. Energy High-Performance Gentle Cleanser </a> it penetrates deeper and gets dirt and daily build-up from pollution or makeup off that I wear on set."</p>

<h1> She keeps a Tatcha face mist with her at all times. </h1>

<p>"The <a href="https://www.tatcha.com/product/SKIN-MIST-V2.html" id="572bb0d8-e903-3741-ac5d-8f3fed9635b6">  Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist </a> brings me back to life if I'm tired, it makes my skin dewy. It's great for before makeup. It's great for refreshing makeup after you have it on. It's just generally amazing. They have the normal-sized one that I have in my bathroom, but they also have this little baby mini one, and I'm obsessed with little mini things mainly because I travel all the time and I don't like checking luggage. But the little one is in my purse, in my gym bag, and in my carry on suitcase."</p>

<h1> She swears by this do-it-all hair styler. </h1>

<p>"My friend and hairstylist Riawna Capri created this line of hair products called In Common and I'm obsessed with the <a href="https://www.incommonbeauty.com/products/magic-myst" id="96f62105-8577-3cff-aaeb-fb5b2ea1218e">  Magic Myst </a> . When I spray it in my hair after I get out of the shower, I still let it do its thing, but for some reason it ends up drying in this perfectly wavy, beachy, effortless look. I don't know what she puts in it. I don't care. Whatever it is, it's working!"</p>

<h1> She always mixes complexion products together. </h1>

<p>"I always mix a little bit of my concealer and my foundation together to put under my eyes, not just the concealer straight to the eye, because then it looks either too light, or because I travel a lot sometimes I'm in the sun, sometimes I'm not, so my skin color changes, so I mix them together for a more natural finish."</p>

Bright. Bubbly. That's what you picture when you think of the Nina Dobrev the world watched grow up on TV since 2006 (first as Mia Jones in Degrassi and then as Elena Gilbert in The Vampire Diaries). She admits, however, that she wasn't always so sunny. "I was really hard on myself when I was youngerI picked at so many things: My weight, my hair, my skin." But as she matured, she also changed her way of thinking: "Ive realized just how small those worries areand Ive learned to care much less....

5 Skincare And Makeup Tips Nina Dobrev Swears By

<h1> You should be washing your brushes at least once a week. </h1>

<p>According to celebrity makeup artist <a href="https://www.instagram.com/allanaponte/?hl=en" id="98cf95b1-dca6-3095-a41a-679723153bff">  Allan Aponte </a> , the brushes you use the mosti.e. usually your foundation and concealer brushesshould be cleaned once a week while everything else is usually fine to only be cleaned once or twice a month.</p>

<p>Brushes that you get wet or use liquid products with are also more important to keep clean because "moist environments allow for an overgrowth of bacteria and fungi," says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. This is especially crucial if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. </p>

<h1> Only wash the tips of your bristles. </h1>

<p>Rather than dunking your whole brush head into a bowl of water, Aponte suggests only getting the ends of your bristles wet under lukewarm, running water. "Submerging the whole brush head will eventually dissolve the glue that holds the brush together," explains Aponte. </p>

<h1> Use a gentle, fragrance-free shampoo. </h1>

<p>Aponte prefers baby shampoo over regular soap because it "still suds up and gets rid of dirt and oils but it won't dry out the bristles." His favorite one is the <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Aquaphor-Baby-Wash-Shampoo-16-9-fl-oz/164941301" id="07fc64b1-e7e8-3965-a8c9-2942d5c2727f">  Aquaphor Baby Wash and Shampoo </a> . In a bowl, pour a two to one ratio of water and shampoo. Dip the bristles into the mixture, then brush them from side to side in the palm of your hand until they lather up before rinsing under warm water. Continue this lather and rinsing cycle until the water running through your brush turns clear.</p>

<h1> Do not use a blow dryer on your makeup brushes.  </h1>

<p>Once your brushes are clean, squeeze out the excess water with a paper towel then lay them flat onto a counter, with the bristles hanging over the edge to finish drying. "Never let your brushes dry upright as the water can go down the barrel that hold the bristles together and loosen the glue," explains Aponte. </p>

<h1> You should replace your brushes at least once every year.  </h1>

<p>Maybe even more often if you use your brushes more frequently. Aponte says there are a few signs to look for, including if it's lost its shape, if the base of the brush head is shaking, if your bristles are constantly shedding, and if it's lost its fullness. </p>

A Makeup Artist's Secret For Clean Makeup Brushes

Like washing your hair, your dishes, or even your clothes, washing your makeup brushes is one of those annoying tasks that you're probably not doing often enough. But, don't think you can just run them under warm water or rub them with sanitizer and call it a day; there's a technique to making sure you're getting rid of the bacteria and taking care of your bristles. Here's exactly how the experts say you should do it.

Exactly How You Should Be Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes, According To A Makeup Artist

<p>Let's be clear, no one chooses to do microneedling because they love getting tiny needles poked into their face. You do it for the results: Smaller pores, a more even skin tone, reduction in scars, and a smoother texture. But after recently going through an in-office microneedling treatment myself, I'm here to tell you that it actually doesn't hurt as badly as you might think. Here's what you need to know.</p>

<h1> Microneedling stimulates collagen. </h1>

<p>I decided to book an appointment with Morgan Rabach, MD, dermatologist and Co-Founder of LM Medical in NYC, who is a major microneedling advocate. "The science behind microneedling is decades old, and is similar to the science for fraxel lasers," explains Dr. Rabach. "fraxel lasers use heat energy to make tiny microscopic holes in the skin, whereas microneedling uses mechanical energy to make the same tiny injuries. With this controlled injury in the skin, I can decide how deep or shallow to stimulate the skin, and I can use different depths depending on how thick the skin is. For example, near the eyes and forehead is much more shallow than parts of the cheek." These tiny injuries stimulate growth factors and healing factors to help the collagen grow. </p>

<p><strong> You have to sit with numbing cream on for one hour.  </strong></p>

&quot;Microneedling made my skin softer than ever.&quot;

<p>After removing all of my makeup, Dr. Rabach applied a heavy duty numbing cream that she left on for about an hour. She admitted that 30-40 minutes would probably be fine, but she likes to give it a little extra time on the skin to ensure the procedure is as painless as possible. TBH, I'd rather spend an extra thirty minutes in the doctor's office than feel the needles but if you're short on time you could do it for less. </p>

<p>After the numbing cream, she applied a thick layer of serum. She used <a href="https://www.dermstore.com/product_TNS+Recovery+Complex_5856.htm" id="601f3ea7-bd74-307b-a7ea-842eec230f84">  SkinMedica's TNS Recovery Serum </a> , which contains peptides, antioxidants, and growth factors that also help boost collagen production"it's basically like a health food shake for your skin," says Dr. Rabach. It's applied before microneedling so that the needles can push the serum deeper into the skin for even better results (similarly to how you apply a serum before microneedling at home).</p>

<h1> Microneedling sounds more painful than actually is.  </h1>

<p>Dr. Rabach turned the microneedling machine on and the drill-like sound that ensued almost sent me running. Then, I remembered the hour I had given to the numbing cream and thought better of it. Thank goodness I did, because as Dr. Rabach pressed the device to my cheek and asked how it felt, I couldn't believe the treatment had already begunI hardly felt a thing! </p>

<p>The device literally felt like holding the base of your electric toothbrush to your cheeka very slight vibration. While Dr. Rabach was very happy to hear my response, she did warn me that the cheeks are the least painful in general because of the cushioning they have between the skin and the bone. She was right. The forehead was definitely the most painful out of all the areas on my face (think about it; there's no paddingjust skin and bone), but even then it really wasn't that bad. </p>

<h1> In-office microneedling does make you bleed a little. </h1>

<p>Immediately after the procedure, Dr. Rabach wiped away the bloodyes, microneedling draws some bloodand handed me a mirror to show me a certain spot already appearing lighter than before. As for the rest of my face, it felt pretty raw and definitely looked raw and like it had just had needles poked into itan overall pink flush with a few red dots, though not quite as bad as I was expecting. Regardless, she covered my face with some medical grade makeup (it was <a href="https://www.isdin.com/us/full-coverage-foundation-isdinceutics_skindrops_caramel.html" id="3002afff-b789-3df0-a9d5-ba76ab7b7e01">  Isdin Skin Drops </a> in case you're in the market) that she assured me would not irritate my skin (I had a work event to go to, otherwise I wouldve left my skin bare), and sent me on my way.</p>

Immediately after microneedling (after the blood and serum was wiped away).

<h1> Microneedling made my skin majorly smoother. </h1>

<p>The next few days, I was told to take it easy on my skin and just stick to the basicscleanser and moisturizerto prevent irritation. The pin prick marks stuck around during that time but it was nothing my usual <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a30110748/it-cosmetics-anti-aging-armour-tinted-moisturizer/" id="55910f77-e8cc-3a5b-a4bb-64854ee69045">  tinted moisturizer </a> couldnt cover up. My skin was slightly more sensitive to touch but even by day two, I could already tell a major difference in the texture of my skinit was so much smoother when I applied my moisturizer and makeup!</p>

<p>As I write this, its been about three weeks since the appointment, and all the evidence of having done microneedling has disappeared. My skin is still smoother than before, a few spots have lightened and my pores definitely seem tighter. </p>

<h1>  You'll get results after one session.  </h1>

<p>While the results vary depending on your baseline and goals, everyone will see results after just one session. However, Dr. Rabach suggests four to six sessions one month apart if youre trying to target deep acne scars. If youre just doing it for maintenance to keep up collagen production, once or twice a year is all you need. </p>

<p>The appointment itself lasted about an hour and a half (most of which was spent numbing), and the cost ranges from $500-$750 per session depending on where you go. For me personally, Dr. Rabach suggests a combination of chemical peels and microneedling to target the pigmentation both on the surface and deeper within. As for if Id do it again... Ive already booked my appointment. </p>

"Microneedling made my skin softer than ever."

You've likely heard of microneedling at home: A tiny rollerwheel of very fine needles that you use before applying skincare to help ingredients penetrate deeper and therefore work betterthat's the idea, anyway. This version of microneedling is not painful and should not be drawing blood. But, did you know there's a stronger version reserved for in-office procedures at the dermatologist's? It's done using a professional grade tool called a dermapen that's like a stamp of needles (12 to be exac...

'I Tried In-Office Microneedling And (Gasp) It Didn't Hurt One Bit'

<p>I was introduced to the multi-tasking product by celebrity makeup artist Katie Jane Hugheswho, by the way, can't believe I haven't moved on from it by now either. Sure, I've tried new formulasdozens of themas a beauty editor, but I always end up back with my old faithful. Here's what makes it so great.</p>

<h1> The formula packs major skin benefits. </h1>

<p>There are peptides that help boost collagen production, niacin that works to repair damage, and antioxidants to help prevent future damage. Even with all of this included, the formula is still really lightweight. Which brings me to my next point...</p>

This Tinted Moisturizer Is Like a Filter IRL

<p>There's only one shade, but it can blend across many different skin tones ( <a href="https://youtu.be/7DrGtwsU-FQ" id="d68969f7-ae1d-3274-a9ef-e38de4d1c2c5">  no, really! </a> ) and has just enough coverage to blur imperfections and even out your skin tone for the most natural-looking finish. Most people think I'm not even wearing makeup and are convinced I have really great skin (the ultimate compliment in my book). Thanks to the blend of hydrating ingredientshyaluronic acid, avocado oil, and grape seed oilit also leaves skin with a light glow. It's almost like having the "Paris" filter from Instagram on your face at all times.</p>

Before and after, only wearing the IT Cosmetics Anti-Aging Armour.

<h1> It also provides weightless sun protection. </h1>

<p>Yep, SPF 50 to be exact. It's broad spectrum protection so you're covered against UVA (the rays that cause skin to age) and UVB (the rays that cause skin to burn) rays. This is a hard feat as physical, also called mineral, sunscreens are a much larger molecule than chemical sunscreens and often make a formula feel heavy or goopy. This one is lightweight and blendable. Even if you're just looking for a sunscreen that also doubles as makeup and skincare, this can work for that, too.</p>

<h1> Its coverage is really buildable. </h1>

<p>I typically use my fingers to swipe it on but you can also blend it in with a brush or a makeup sponge. I like to apply a thin veil across my whole face first to even out my skin tone and nix redness and then I go back and add a little more in trouble spots like under my eyes or where I've had a pimple pop up. Yep, I don't even wear concealer with this. Now can you see why I haven't been able to walk away?!</p>

<a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g25919537/best-tinted-moisturizers/" id="c4a153b8-0425-341f-a7c6-ebd390f1d4a7">  Tinted moisturizer </a> is nothing new, which is why you'd expect it to be easy to find a good one, right? Wrong. Call me picky, but I have yet to move on from my signature tinted moisturizer I found three years ago: IT Cosmetics Anti-Aging Armour. It's that good.

'This Tinted Moisturizer Is So Good I Don't Even Need Concealer'

<p>The 'natural' mascaras tended to flake away or would come out so goopy on the applicator that it was too messy to apply. Which is why you could say I was a bit skeptical when new clean beauty brand <a href="https://saiehello.com/" id="773b89cb-0d8c-321c-a623-5108b13bf00a">  Saie's </a> mascaraa hero among the five piece launchcame across my desk. But I decided to try it anyway because I'm a beauty editor and that's my jobtough, I know.</p>

<p>The verdict: It was even better than any of the toxic formulas I'd tried. So much so that I decided to write a whole article dedicated to ithence why you're here. </p>

<h1> Let's start with the applicator.  </h1>

<p>Made with rubber bristles, it's like a little comb for your lashes and coats every one of them while keeping them perfectly spaced. They're also short enough that they don't hold too much formula so the application is clean, not goopy. The tip is also covered in bristles that help reach the inner and outer corners to really define the shape of your lashes. </p>

<p>Saie (pronounced say) bans the use of 2,000 harmful ingredients (for reference, the UK bans 1300 and the US only 11) including parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde and synthetic fragrances. As for the mascara specifically, most traditional formulas use carbon black ( <a href="http://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/chemicals-of-concern/carbon-black/#references" id="f908c1e5-01e6-3d81-acff-96830c721e4d">  a powder that's been linked to cancer </a> ) to create their pigment, while Saie uses iron oxides (a natural mineral). Compared to other clean mascaras, Saie's is also different in that they formulate it to use less water and more hydrating ingredients to not only nourish the lashes but also to prevent flaking. Water-based formulas can help the mascara go on smoothly but once it dries and the water evaporates, the mascara starts cracking which is what leads to flaking.</p>

<h1> It wipes away without any mess.  </h1>

<p>Beeswaxresponsibly sourced, of courseis a key player in the formula and helps to mold and coat the lashes without ever completely drying down. This allows it be flexible and keeps your lashes healthier by not drying them out. This is also what allows it to slip right off at the end of the day without any rubbing. </p>

<h1> It's good for sensitive eyes too. </h1>

<p>Another perk of choosing a clean formula is that it's safe for eyes that are easily irritated. Mark Jacquot, OD, clinical director at <a href="https://www.lenscrafters.com/" id="fdd7c39c-a653-384d-af12-c696814b75d1">  LensCrafters </a> suggests reading the label before you purchase a mascara, and calls out ingredients including aluminum powder, propylene glycol, retinyl acetate, and color additives as the ones you should stay away fromall of which are not in this mascara or in most natural formulas in general.</p>

<p>While I'm partial to their mascara, Saie also launched a <a href="https://saiehello.com/products/brow-butter-clear" id="e037ab7d-1512-3b02-a181-876662149a94">  brow gel </a> , tinted <a href="https://saiehello.com/products/liquid-lip-balm" id="8c5db632-06c1-3147-a103-ca733d2e287f">  lip balm </a> , and <a href="https://saiehello.com/products/the-lash-curler" id="58d25cf9-f4af-3428-a7e9-3c8fa2b87c09">  eyelash curler </a> that are also impressive, clean, and all under $25.</p>

The one thing that always makes me feel put together and done up is mascara. The added oomph it gives to my blonde lashes immediately leaves my eyes looking more awake and defined after just a few swipes. Yet, when I started to switch over my makeup bag to cleaner products, mascara was the one thing that I had a hard time finding a clean alternative for. So much so that I actually just decided to <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19948019/lash-lift/" id="53d0b50e-a511-3e33-a147...

The Natural Mascara To End All Natural Mascaras

<h1> First thing's first: Never pick! </h1>

<p>It goes without sayingbut I'm going to anywayyou should never pick at a pimple. "Acne in and of itself is inflammation under the skin," explains Shari Marchbein, MD, the Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at NYU. "When you pop a zit, you are adding insult to injury, causing more inflammation, redness and swelling than what would have been there in the first place." If that weren't enough to scare you, picking can also lead to permanent scarringas in for life if you get overly aggressive. Instead, work smarter to get rid of your pimple by using a topical treatment with the right ingredients. </p>

<h1> Salicylic Acid works best for blackheads. </h1>

<p>You likely know if you have blackheads, but just in case here's a refresher: "Blackheads are categorized as an open comedone and are characterized by a dilated or widened opening of a hair follicle caused by a build up of sebum (oil produced by sebaceous glands), P. Acnes bacteria (the primary bacteria responsible for causing acne) and inflammation," explains Dr. Marchbein. Salicylic acid is the ingredient you'll want to look for to clear out this build-up. "It's a beta hydroxy acid that will help remove excess oil from the surface of the skin and exfoliate dead cells to keep pores clear and clean," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research at The Mount Sinai Hospital. Remember to apply it over the entire area where you tend to see blackheadsnot just as a spot treatmentto not only treat the existing blackheads but to help prevent them from coming back.</p>

<h1> Adapalene works best for whiteheads.  </h1>

<p>While you might think of a whitehead as a bump with a white dot on it, they're actually small, skin colored bumps that develop when oil blocks the pores but do not have a large opening to the skin surface says Dr. Zeichner. He recommends topical retinoids to clear these up. "Adapalene is a topical retinoid that's available over the counter and is approved to treat acne. It enhances cell turnover and prevents cells from sticking togetherwhat causes the blocked poresto clear whiteheads," says Dr. Zeichner. While this should helpespecially for preventing new whiteheadsyou may need to go to a dermatologist or esthetician to get existing ones professionally extracted. Repeat after me: You are not <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a29800789/dr-pimple-popper-giant-cyst-patient-smile-instagram-video/" id="f123673b-094c-3a3c-a42e-9812578f2ec0">  Dr. Pimple Popper </a> .</p>

<h1> Benzoyl Peroxide works best for papules and cysts. </h1>

<p>A papule is a superficial red bump with a whitehead buried deep beneath while a cyst is essentially a balloon under the skin that's filled with oil. Both of which never surface and can't be popped. "These develop when the pores become blocked and significant inflammation develops typically fueled by high levels of acne-causing bacteria on the skin," says Dr. Zeichner. The solution: Benzoyl peroxide. It helps lower levels of acne causing bacteria on the skin and reduces inflammation. </p>

<h1> Hydrocolloid patches are best for pustules. </h1>

<p>The name may have given it away, but these are pimples where the puss has come to a head. While they may seem prime for popping, don't do it! Instead, apply a pimple patch. The hydrocolloid bandage will help draw out the fluidaka the pusswhile keeping your skin calm and shielded from grime-covered fingers. </p>

<h1> If the zit is not getting better, consult an expert.  </h1>

<p>If your acne persists after at least eight weeks, it's best to book an appointment with your dermatologist. "Acne treatments are not one-size-fits-all," says Dr. Marchbein who shared that most of her patients require a customized combination of prescription creams to help clear up their acne and keep it at bay. </p>

The Ingredient That Gets Rid Of Blackheads

No matter what kind it is or where it pops up, a pimple is never a fun surprise to wake up to. When you feel one coming on, it's best to react quickly and strategically to make sure it goes away as fast as it came. Here's what dermatologists recommend you should do.

The Best Ingredient To Treat Every Type Of Pimple, According To Dermatologists

<p>"In-office microneedling procedures use sterile needles that puncture deep enough in order to cause bleeding for stronger results," explains Dr. Levin. This treatment is done by a dermatologist using a dermapenthink a small stamp of needlesthat's pressed into the skin.</p>

<p>Then, there's at-home microneedling which you've probably seen on Instagram or Youtube. It involves using a dermaroller (a rolling wheel of short micro needles). It works similarly to a tool used for aerating soil and makes way for the products that you follow up with afterwards. </p>

<p>"Normally, only about four percent of a product's ingredients penetrate into the skin, but using a dermaroller allows up to 70 percent to make it through," says Danna Omari, esthetician and founder of <a href="https://noyskincare.com/" id="5ddb0da9-4f5a-3470-a06a-34d4d22c0f3b">  Noy Skincare </a> in New York City. "So, any condition you're concerned withwrinkles, hyperpigmentation, scarswill improve that much faster because the ingredients in your skincare are actually able to get to work."</p>

<h1> In-office treatments can set you back between $600-$1,000. </h1>

<p>Meanwhile, at-home dermarollers can cost anywhere from $30 to $100but Dr. Levin says you may want to consider paying the hefty price tag because "at-home devices are much more superficial and not as precise." </p>

<h1> Microneedling shouldn't hurt if you're doing it correctly. </h1>

<p>Here's your step-by-step guide for microneedling, according to Omari:</p>

<ol><li> Completely clean your skin. </li><li>  Once you're makeup free, roll each area of your face and neck in different directions (horizontal, vertical and diagonallike an asterisk) for two to five minutes.  </li><li> Immediately follow it up with your favorite eye cream, serums, and moisturizer. </li></ol>

<h1> You'll want to make sure you're investing in a safe tool for microneedling. </h1>

<p> Omari swears by the Environ Cosmetic Roll-CIT because it's made with "sterilized stainless steel and has surgical-grade needles at the optimal length and angle to help prevent micro tears." </p>

<p>Keep in mind that while in-office treatments are meant to draw blood, at-home rollers should not. </p>

<h1> There are some risks involved with microneedlingparticularly if you DIY. </h1>

<p>"At-home microneedling devices are difficult to clean, so there's a higher risk of infection," warns Dr. Levin. Omari agrees that keeping your tool clean is key and recommends running it under hot water after each use then letting it dry completely before putting it back in its case. Once or twice a week, she also recommends soaking it in a cleansing solution like <a href="https://www.environskincare.com/product/instruments/instrument-cleaning-solution/" id="5eed8ba2-1aad-3b8e-a847-b14fdf630ab2">  Environ's Instrument Cleaning Solution </a> for 10 minutes. If you're in a pinch, she says denture solution tablets work, too.</p>

<h1>  Microneedling isn't for you if you have inflamed skin.  </h1>

<p>"If you're dealing with an inflammatory conditionsuch as psoriasis or eczema, or actively tanned, sun burned skinor you have a skin infection such as cold sores, microneedling should not be performed," explains Dr. Levin. <strong>  " </strong> You don't want to further stress out skin that's already irritated."  If you're unsure which camp you fall in, always ask your dermatologist or esthetician before getting started. </p>

While rolling a wheel of needles across your face may sound painful, it's actually not that badand it comes with glowing skin benefits. "Microneedling is the creation of small microchannels and injuries to the skin using acupuncture-sized needles," says Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, dermatologist and founder of <a href="https://entierederm.com/" id="ee6f329a-89ca-31e4-a5f1-f467d8533a47">  Entiere Dermatology </a> in New York City. "These 'injuries' to the skin cause the body to respond by ...

Everything You Need To Know About Microneedling

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