You asked, and I answered! We rounded up your most talked about skin care concerns and put together our first reader Q+A, which hopefully sheds some light on those frustrating little skin + beauty conundrums. Still have a lingering inquiry? Be sure to send in your question for next month’s round up!
One word: blackheads. How to get rid of them?
Blackheads, or “open comedones” are hair follicles that are clogged with little plugs made of hardened sebum (oil) and dirt. Exfoliating is one of the biggest favors you can do for your skin, especially when trying to minimize the appearance of blackheads. A great DIY scrub is a mixture of baking soda and apple cider vinegar which gently polishes skin and help clear out clogged pores. Massage into your face after cleansing and rinse with cool water. Maintenance is key, so be sure to exfoliate two to three times a week.
In addition to exfoliating, I swear by clay masks which help pull out dirt and oil from deep within pores. Just like exfoliation, clay masks work best when used on a regular basis. This mask from Peter Thomas Roth
Last tip: however tempting, don’t pick or squeeze! You can cause irritation, inflammation or damage. If you’re really bothered by these little buggers, seek a professional esthetician who can extract them safely.
I’ve been suffering from painful acne and dry, red skin. I’m also taking progesterone. What are some products I can use? Soap seems to make it worse.
Unfortunately, one of the side effects of Progesterone is acne. However, when dealing with skin that is hormonally acneic, dry and red, the most important thing to remember is balance. Use a gentle cleanser that will clean the skin, but not strip it of it’s natural barrier or disrupt it’s pH. In addition, use a moisturizer that will hydrate and protect the skin from environmental aggravators and dryness. The Eminence Probiotic line contains all natural ingredients that cleanse, nourish and protect problematic skin. I especially like the mask!
Do you have any product recommendations for makeup to use during pregnancy?
As any expecting woman knows, fatigue is inevitable. Keeping up a full time beauty routine is unnecessary when you’re rocking that natural glow, but keeping a few simple products on hand can help you fake it when you feel less than amazing.
For a quick complexion boost, I recommend a tinted moisturizer to even out any discoloration. My favorite is from Nars and is fool-proof to apply. If you prefer a more natural product, Alima Pure offers a gorgeous mineral foundation, which comes in 61 different shades.
When it comes to faking perfect skin or 8-hours of sleep, concealer is your best friend. Choose a long-wearing formula that won’t crease or transfer. This one from Tarte is good for your skin and won’t budge!
A natural flush is always flattering and brings life to your face. The Argan Color Stick from Josie Maran is infused with skin-loving argan oil and creates a sheer wash of color on lips and cheeks. I’m crazy for the “Red” shade, which looks great on everyone.
What are some anti-aging products that are safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
There are so many fabulous, natural skin care lines that offer effective anti-aging serums and treatments. A few I highly recommend are:
Vitamin C Serum from Elizabeth Dehn for One Love Organics ($68): brightening, deeply hydrating and packed with antioxidants. This super serum sinks in quickly and plumps fine lines.
The Rejuvenating Serum by Tata Harper ($95): pricey, but worth every drop. This daily treatment boosts collagen production and strengthens skin from the inside out.
Plant Stem Cell Renewal Complex by Intelligent Nutrients ($55): consider this your all-natural spot treatment on steroids. Perfect for age spots, fine lines, stretch marks and scars, this treatment rivals procedures at the derm’s office.
Is the Clarisonic worth the expense?
As I’ve said before, exfoliation is key to beautiful, glowing skin. Is the Clarisonic brush great for exfoliation? It is – and feels lovely. But, is it’s absolutely necessary? No. There are so many effective peels, scrubs and brushes that offer similar results at a less expensive price. Stick with what your budget will allow.
What are some safe + effective spa treatments to get during pregnancy?
Beyond your basic skin care routine at home, expectant women can benefit from a deep cleansing facial once a month. In particular, if you suffer from pregnancy-related hormonal acne, a professional facial can help clear out congestion, balance skin and provide much-needed relaxation. If you’re interested in a more advanced treatment, lactic acid resurfacing treatments (peels) are safe and help brighten, lighten, hydrate and smooth skin and can be performed once a month.
What can I do for melasma? Will it ever go away?
Melasma, also known as “pregnancy mask” is facial hyperpigmentation caused by hormone stimulation during pregnancy. For some women, these dark spots begin to fade immediately after giving birth, while for others, melasma sticks around for years. I wish I could tell you there is a magic cream to make it go away in a snap, but unfortunately, there isn’t. If you are bothered by the discoloration, make an appointment with your dermatologist after your postpartum check. There are treatments available that can help lighten these dark spots, but do require maintenance and lots of patience! In the meantime, be sure to wear an SPF every day (at least 30!) and stay out of the sun. Both UVA and UVB rays can make melasma worse.
Hannah is a licensed esthetician, Air Force wife and an expectant first time mother. We are excited to have her expertise on The Wise Baby as our resident mama and baby skin care expert!
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