Daley Quinn

<p>Often, a barrier of makeup increases oil production, so not wearing makeup can decrease oiliness, clogged pores and pimples," explains <a href="https://www.drhadleyking.com/" id="543f200c-a26b-3f80-af07-8e1002412421">  Hadley King </a> , MD, a dermatologist in New York City. She warns, however, that these benefits could potentially come with an adjustment period.</p>

<p>While your skin is recalibrating and getting used to the new normal of going makeup-free, it could be temporarily affecting your sebum production, which could lead to clogged pores and breakouts, according to Dr. King. If this is happening, keep the other parts of your skincare routine gentlea gentle cleanser and soothing moisturizer, she says. Consider adding in an active ingredient like a retinoid or salicylic acid. Although these ingredients can cause skin purging, they will ultimately lead to a clearer complexion. Here are the other benefits you could see when you go makeup free:</p>

<h1> Your skin's surface will become balanced again.  </h1>

<p>By avoiding application of foundation and blush, the skin is allowed to return to its natural oil balance and hydration, explains Nadia Kihiczak, MD, a dermatologist at <a href="https://springstderm.com/" id="aafe0e27-f38b-3769-a45d-d480ab01e867">  Spring Street Dermatology </a> in New York City. Additionally, without wearing makeup, the typical daily use of toner or over-washing the skin to remove the makeup, which can strip the skin of its natural oil balance, can be minimized further, allowing the skin to recalibrate.</p>

<h1> Your acne might be less likely to flare up.  </h1>

<p>Unlike many skincare product ingredients, which penetrate into your skin, makeup sits on top of your skinthis coverage may affect your skin's sebum production and its natural hydrators because skin behaves differently depending on external factors like humidity, says Dr. King. Often, a barrier of makeup increases oil production, so not wearing makeup can decrease oiliness, clogged pores, and pimples. </p>

<h1> Youre exposing your skin to less bacteria.  </h1>

<p>By not wearing makeup, you are not unnecessarily exposing your delicate facial skin to bacteria which thrive in the application brushes and makeup palettes that you use day after day, says Dr. Kihiczak. Even if youre washing your brushes regularly, the bacteria can remain in them and in the makeup itself, even if they have added preservatives."</p>

<p>Additionally, most folks apply their makeup in the bathroom, exposing their products to other types of bacteria, which can contaminate the makeup. In particular, mascara and eyeliners applied repeatedly to the skin of the eyes and eyelid margins can introduce bacteria to this very delicate skin possibly leading to eye infections, says Dr. Kihiczak. </p>

<h1> Your fine lines will be less prominent.  </h1>

<p>Makeup, especially powder makeup, can rest in fine lines and wrinkles and can actually make them appear more pronounced, especially around the eyes, says Dr. Kihiczak. Then, the process of removing the makeup nightly can result in tugging and pulling the skin on a regular basis which can affect the elasticity of the skin and, therefore, accelerate aging.</p>

<h1> Your lashes will look fuller.  </h1>

<p>If you were wearing enough mascara to be causing breakage, or sleeping in it, or not removing it gently enough, and causing breakage that way, you may notice that your lashes seem longer or fuller due to lack of breakage, explains Dr. King. </p>

<p>Dr. Kihiczak agrees, stating that if you forego mascara for a month, youll be stopping the irritation and rubbing, where less lashes will fall out and the density of the lashes can normalizeyour lashes will appear to be thicker. </p>

5 Surprising Skin Benefits Of Not Wearing Makeup

Aside from getting dolled up for a Zoom team meeting here and there, its likely that you arent wearing makeup (or maybe just less) while social distancing these days. It would make sense in theory that giving skin a little break from the blush and bronzer is beneficial every once in a while, but how, exactly, can it help your skin? Ahead, we ask the pros about different ways going makeup-free can help clear up your complexion.

Five Things That Happen to Your Skin When You Stop Wearing Makeup for a Month

<p>Once you've decided which mask is best for your strands (keep scrolling to make your pick), you'll just want to make sure you follow these pro application tips to get the most out of your recipe. I definitely think the way to go when applying DIY masks is to apply them to dry or damp hair, then shampoo and condition as normalthis gives you a little buffer if you accidentally over apply the mask, says Judy McGuinness, a stylist at <a href="http://www.mizuforhair.com" id="ca9ac94b-b0e6-337c-affb-02832ec5aee8">  mizu Louis Licari </a> . Theres nothing worse than putting a concoction on your hair only to find out it wont rinse out after a few shampoos! Make sure to apply the majority of the mask to the mid lengths and ends of the hair (unless its a scalp detox mask), as thats where the hair is the oldest and most damaged or dry.</p>

<p>With any hair mask, Mahshid Baghaei, a colorist at <a href="http://www.mizuforhair.com" id="ca9ac94b-b0e6-337c-affb-02832ec5aee8">  mizu Louis Licari </a> , recommends a 20 minute processing time to make sure it penetrates the cuticles and seeps into the scalp, if trying out a scalp mask. Adding a shower cap will also help speed up the process, says Baghaei. After the processing time, shampoo the hair lightly and condition as usual, unless you have a heavy conditioning treatment in your hairthen just rinse the hair after shampooing. Another thing to remember: Always be extra careful when rinsing masks out in the shower, Paul, celebrity stylist and owner of <a href="https://www.cucinellostudio.com/" id="8fadb187-cba8-31f0-a9ed-d7a8d61c4edd">  Cucinello Studio NYC </a> . Most have a lot of oils and emollients in them, so they create a super slippery situation on the shower floor."</p>

<p>See below for the best DIY hair mask for every hair-y situation. </p>

<h1>  If you have thick, coarse, damaged hair:  </h1>

<p>If youd like to soften, control or nourish [your hair], choose ingredients with higher fat contents, such as avocado, mayonnaise, coconut milk and/or egg yolks, says Cucinello.</p>

<ul><li>  an avocado </li><li> 1 egg  </li><li> 1 tsp. olive oil </li></ul>

<p>Directions: Blend ingredients together with a fork or spoon, apply from mid-shaft to the ends of hair, leave on for 20 minutes, then rinse with shampoo. </p>

Coconut, egg and fresh milk on a white background, top view

<h1>  If you have medium or fine, damaged hair:  </h1>

<p>Opt for something lighter or with a more gel-like consistency, such as raw aloe vera, egg whites, or honey, says Cucinello. </p>

<ul><li> 2 egg whites </li><li> 2 tbsp coconut oil </li></ul>

<p>Directions: Separate the whites from the yolks of two eggs. Add coconut oil to the egg whites and whisk together. Apply the mixture from roots to ends and use a wide-toothed comb to distribute the mixture throughout the hair. Let it sit for 20 minutes. Then shampoo hair with cool water (warm or hot water might cook the mixture into your hair).</p>

Directly Above Shot Of Bananas Over Beige Background

<p>To add shine to your dull hair, I would try to mix egg yolks, honey and banana, says Baghaei. The benefits of this recipe are amazingwhile the egg provides protein to the hair, the banana and honey will enhance the natural shine.</p>

<ul><li> 1 ripe banana </li><li> 1 tbsp raw </li><li> organic honey </li><li> 1 raw egg </li></ul>

<p>Directions: Peel banana, freeze, and then blend in a blender or food processor (freezing the banana will decrease the amount of clumps in the mixture) until smooth. Add the honey and egg whites to the mixture, and blend in a blender or food processor again. Apply to your hair from roots to tips, cover with shower cap, and let it sit for 20 minutes. Follow it with your usual shampoo and conditioner.</p>

High Angle View Of Honey In Container On Table

<h1>  If you want to restore moisture:  </h1>

<p>For hair types that are feeling dry, try a honey, egg and apple cider vinegar mask, says Breno Miranda, stylist at <a href="http://www.mizuforhair.com" id="ca9ac94b-b0e6-337c-affb-02832ec5aee8">  mizu Louis Licari </a> . It is a great hydrating treatment that provides moisture and nourishes by restoring your hairs natural pH.</p>

<ul><li> 1 tsp raw </li><li> organic honey </li><li> 1 egg </li><li> 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar </li></ul>

<p>Directions: Mix all ingredients together. Wash the hair with a sulfate-free shampoo then apply the mixture 1/4 inch from the scalp, down to the ends. Leave on for 30 minutes, then rinse.</p>

Green mint twigs on the natural linen fabric background

<h1>  If you want to calm a flaky scalp:  </h1>

<p>If you're trying to exfoliate the scalp (try granulated sugar, coconut oil and a drop of peppermint oil) you should evenly distribute the mixture to dry hair and gently massage it into your scalp before you get into the shower, says Cucinello. Then thoroughly rinse and follow with shampoo and conditioner.</p>

<ul><li> 2 tbsp granulated sugar </li><li> 1 tsp coconut oil </li><li> a drop or two of peppermint oil </li></ul>

<p>Directions: Mix all of the ingredients together then gently massage it into your scalp (before you wet your hair), then thoroughly rinse out and shampoo. </p>

<p>If you are looking for a DIY leave-in conditioner to use on your beautiful curls, or just to tame your frizzy hair, I like rich hydrating ingredients like coconut and jojoba oil, says Baghaei. These ingredients are heavy in their natural oils, so its perfect to define coarse curls and dismiss the frizz.</p>

<ul><li> 1 part coconut oil </li><li> 1 part water </li><li> 1 part jojoba oil </li></ul>

<p>Instructions: Mix all ingredients into a spray bottle and shake to mix it all together. Spray onto damp curls and let dry. </p>

<p>Egg whites are a great go-to when trying to remove excess oil from your locks. Just be careful not to leave the mask on for too long, as it could cook in your hair and be difficult to get out. </p>

<ul><li> 1 egg white </li><li> juice from 1 lemon </li></ul>

<p>Directions: Separate the egg white from the yok, then add in the lemon juice and mix together. Apply directly to the scalp and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse with water and then shampoo and condition.</p>

<p>Rosemary oil has the ability to improve cellular generation, and can help awaken the hair follicle for faster growth. </p>

<ul><li> 3 tbsp argan oil </li><li> 4-9 drops rosemary oil </li></ul>

<p>Directions: Mix ingredients together and apply to the scalp and let it sit for five minutes, then cover your head with a hot towel to promote further absorption. Let it sit for another 15-20 minutes, then follow with shampoo and conditioner.</p>

Whether youve just run out of your favorite leave-in conditioner or feeling like your strands need more TLC, you might want to take a look in your kitchen before heading to the drugstore to restock. From dryness, to frizz, to flakes, and more, weve asked the pros for their best DIY hair mask recipes to target every kind of hair concern.

8 DIY Hair Masks For Every Hair Type

<p>While there are many clinical dermatological treatments for acne available, there are other diet and nutritional interventions that can help make a difference for those people that suffer with acne, explains Maggie Luther, ND, medical director and formulator at <a href="https://takecareof.com/" id="894d0a4f-0d22-33a3-ac2e-768c1154cf80">  Care/Of </a> .</p>

<p>It's important to note that while adding specific foods and vitamins for acne may help you fight your flareups, theres also evidence suggesting that specific foods might be causing your acne. </p>

<p>There is mounting data showing that a <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19994257/acne-and-diet-video/" id="c74f3155-14f7-3b58-a3b5-20a43d12a01e">  carbohydrate-rich diet may be associated with acne flare-ups </a> , as the high sugar load promotes inflammation throughout the body, including the skin, leading to pimples, says <a href="http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com/" id="f13fb042-df59-3a9a-a187-8b93b4462f33">  Joshua Zeichner </a> , MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. Also, cows milk, particularly skim milk, <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/food/a21641590/cut-dairy-for-acne/" id="1c48667f-2880-36ec-a4e6-cf235c87b5d9">  has been associated with acne flares </a> , but interestingly, yogurt and cheese have not been associated.</p>

<p>Experts agree you should pay attention to the foods youre consuming if you suffer from breakouts, but you might also want to consider adding vitamins and supplements into your daily routine for a healthy-skin boost (just check with your doctor before starting any sort of supplement). Here are the six vitamins and nutrients that may help you achieve clearer skin:</p>

<p>Inflammation in the skin is one of the main causes of breakouts (as well as a host of other skin issues), and according to Dr. Zeichner, zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to help improve acne. Zinc was also recently noted in <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29193602" id="5799fca4-bb02-39bd-a76a-14f4698ac87a">  a study </a> published in Dermatologic Therapy as a promising alternative to other acne treatments owing to its low cost, efficacy, and lack of systemic side effects, explains Dr. Luther.</p>

<h1> 2.   Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids  </h1>

<p>Acne-prone skin has been linked to low intake of linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, says Dr. Zeichner. In fact, a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24553997" id="66b5e9df-5ee3-3a7f-abe5-6b78e9ad9781">  recent placebo-controlled study </a> looked into how omega-3 fatty acid and linoleic acid (an omega-6) supplements affected skin.</p>

<p>After 10 weeks, in both the omega-3 group and in the GLA [gamma-linolenic acid] group, supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions, says Dr. Luther. </p>

<p>Make sure you're not making these mistakes when taking vitamins:</p>

<p>Topical vitamin E has long been a skincare hero <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a28249734/vitamin-e-oil-benefits/" id="79c0ef2f-f7f8-302b-a947-f8dfb3386218">  it can fade dark spots, calm inflammation, and moisturize </a> but ingesting the vitamin (as a supplementplease don't drink your serum!) is also important for acne-prone skin. "Low levels of vitamin E in the blood <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23826827" id="19b88f55-0dd9-327c-a1e2-165cf0f035b3">  has been correlated with the severity of acne </a> ," says Dr. Luther. Those patients with higher levels of this antioxidant had lower severity of acne.</p>

<h1>  4. Probiotics &amp; Prebiotics  </h1>

<p>In recent years, probiotics (live microorganisms) and prebiotics (these act like food for good bacteria) have become a major health trendand for good reason. </p>

<p>Probiotics and the bodys existing natural beneficial bacteria can help neutralize oxidative stress, modulate inflammation, and even support a healthy mood," says Dr. Luther. Another benefit: "Studies show that all of these things <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23886975" id="31db52c8-14cd-3440-a04c-73247ed33d65">  can also help defend against inflammatory forms of acne </a> ."</p>

<p>Vitamin A derivatives, like retinol, are commonly used to treat acne because they reduce inflammation in the skin and prevent skin cells from sticking together and clogging pores, says Dr. Zeichner. I caution patients against ingesting too much Vitamin A, though, as it can cause extreme dryness of the skin, make you sensitive to the sun, interfere with your vision, and may even affect your liver. </p>

<p>Topical vitamin A has long been studied for its skin-clearing (and anti-aging) benefits, so in this case it's best to stick with serums and creams, rather than supplements. </p>

<p>Antioxidants (including astaxanthin) play such an important role for so many areas of the body, the skin included. Astaxanthin, which is produced by microalgae and often found as a supplement, has been well studied for years in regards to providing the skin with numerous benefits, explains Dr. Luther. </p>

<p>While acne is not quite yet in that line-up, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5946307/" id="3c03ab6c-9eb0-31df-a676-335d656c9233">  antioxidants have been associated with </a> improved overall skin health, including a reduction in fine lines, sun spots, and inflammation, she adds. Given that antioxidants benefit skin, astaxanthin may be a good product to support overall skin health, allowing for the skin to be able to better heal in those with acne.</p>

The Best Vitamins To Try For Acne-Prone Skin

You are what you eat, and that old adage couldnt be truer than when it comes to your skin. Scientists and doctors have concluded that <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g19038893/best-foods-for-skin/" id="69098c75-3e93-3de9-a914-cc5818536c0f">  nutrition likely plays a huge role in skin health </a> , and that vitamins for acne shouldnt be overlooked.

These 6 Vitamins May Help Clear Up Your Acne, According To Dermatologists

<p>But what if you want to go the all-natural route? Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, so it's been used for years as a natural way to treat lice in hair, athletes foot, nail fungus, and yes, acne.</p>

<p>"Tea tree oil works by lowering levels of acne-causing bacteria on the skin and reducing inflammation," says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai hospital in New York. "But most of my patients come into the office with skin irritation after applying tea tree oil to their acne."</p>

<p>\"Just because an ingredient is natural doesn\'t mean it\'s more gentle.\"</p>

<h1> The truth about natural ingredients </h1>

<p>Tea tree oil might be natural, but that doesnt mean it's always less irritating than traditional acne treatments. "Just because an ingredient is natural doesn't mean it's more effective or even more gentle than a less natural product," says Zeichner. "In fact, tea tree oil can be very irritating to the skin, in some cases even more so than traditional acne treatments, and can cause contact dermatitis." Tea tree oil in it's pure state can cause dryness, burning, stinging, and even peeling. </p>

<h1> The right way to use tea tree oil </h1>

<p>If you arent typically reactive to skincare products, using tea tree oil on your acne might be beneficial. "My patients typically use tea tree oil as a spot treatment, although it certainly can be applied to the entire face to treat current breakouts and prevent new pimples from popping up," says Zeichner.</p>

<p>The key to applying tea tree oil to acne is to always dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil (like jojoba oil, safflower oil, or argan oil). "In a dark glass bottle, mix two teaspoons of carrier oil with 15 drops of tea tree oil to get a five percent concentration," says Joanne DeLeon, Skin Therapist and Trainer at   LA. "This is the appropriate dilution for your face."</p>

<p>If you're using tea tree oil as a spot treatment for acne, dip a Q-tip into water, then pour a drop of tea tree oil (like this one from The Body Shop) onto a Q-tip and apply it directly to your pimple. </p>

<p>Although straight tea tree oil can be irritating for reactive skin types, that doesnt mean all sensitive-skin folks need to miss out on the healing benefits of tea tree oil. If you know you have sensitive skin (or if youve done a patch test with tea tree oil and discovered your skins sensitivity to it), look for skincare products with tea tree oil built in (options below). They contain tea tree oil in their formulas but will often use other, less-irritating oils or liquids to dilute any unwanted effects of tea tree oil.</p>

<p>[gallery id='01c2cbbc-f42f-45dc-9758-96e39fc4b8e4' mediaId='' display='list' align='center' size='medium' share='true' expand='' captions='true' suppress-title='false'][/gallery]</p>

<p>But be patient. "Although you may see improvement after the first use, it can take a month or more of regular use to see measurable changes," says DeLeon. </p>

Although there are a ton of ways to treat acne (i.e.  <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/food/a21641590/cut-dairy-for-acne/" id="71465cc3-5225-3ab8-a8ff-40451b59e534">  quitting dairy </a> ), most dermatologists still suggest proven over-the-counter ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.

The Best Way To Use Tea Tree Oil For Acne

<p><a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g25655795/best-moisturizer-sensitive-skin/" id="ac22b51c-91cc-3950-a86d-95705b917d74">  If you have sensitive skin </a> or have had a bad reaction to retinol in the past, you're in luck. Theres a new, gentler alternative in skin care that claims similar results. Introducing, bakuchiol.</p>

<p>Bakuchiol (some pronounce it buh-koo-chee-all, other people use back-uh-heel) is an extract taken from the leaves and seeds of the babchi herb. It's been used in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for years, but you've probably seen it popping up in new skin care products because... </p>

<ul><li> <strong> It's anti-aging:  </strong> A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24471735">2014 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science</a> found that bakuchiol stimulates collagen (a protein naturally found in our skin that keeps it plump and strong). </li><li> <strong> It's protective:  </strong> "Bakuchiol is an antioxidant that helps with oxidative stress," says <a href="https://www.mdcsnyc.com/provider/dendy-engelman-md">Dendy Engelman, M.D., a dermatologic surgeon in New York City</a> . "It regulates your cell's mitochondria, which limits cell damage from free radicals. </li><li> <strong> It's hydrating and healing: </strong>  The plant extract is packed with vitamin E, so it's moisturizing and reparative. </li><li> <strong> It's acne-fighting: </strong>  It also has antibacterial properties, so it can be a big help in getting rid of breakout-causing bacteria. </li></ul>

<p>Just because bakuchiol is a natural, gentler alternative to retinol, doesnt mean it's not a powerhouse ingredient. A clinical study reported that a twice daily application of bakuchiol for 12 weeks resulted in significant improvement in lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, firmness, and overall reduction in photo-damage, says Dr. Engelman. </p>

<p>If you have dry, sensitive skin, cant tolerate a retinol, or have a pretty involved skin-care routine, bakuchiol is for you. The all-star ingredient can be safely used with other skincare products, unlike a retinol. You should avoid specific products when using a retinol, such as exfoliators, toners, and benzoyl peroxide, as they can cause irritation," says Dr. Engelman. "However, due to bakuchiols natural composition, it is safe to use with other products in your skincare regimen." </p>

<h1> Get your bakuchiol skin care fix  </h1>

<p>[gallery id='93e1f8f5-2318-4bfe-b024-096f4913e369' mediaId='' display='list' align='center' size='medium' share='true' expand='' captions='true' suppress-title='true'][/gallery]</p>

Everyone loves to talk about <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/beauty/skin/a708712/best-retinol/" id="73d7c7e0-1450-33c2-ac57-1ec85b940b48">  the amazing benefits of retinol </a> (it's proven to soften wrinkles, reverse pigmentation, fight acne-seriously, it does it all), but what about the irritating side effects? Before you get #skingoals, the vitamin A derivative can make your complexion dry, flaky, and irritated, especially if you're a first-time retinol user.

Bakuchiol Skin Care Is The Gentle Version Of Retinol You've Been Looking For

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