Mischo Beauty: noncomedogenic

After reviewing my previous posts on facials, exfoliation, serums, facial masks, facial cleansing, etc. I just realized that I've never discussed blackheads, or as they are technically called, "open comedones". Blackheads are simply a build up of hardened oil and dead skin cells in a hair follicle; and when the hair follicle is exposed to oxygen, it oxidizes and turns black- therefore the name "blackhead". I've seen blackheads on just about every skin type, but particularly on those with oily skin and oily t-zones. Here are ways to prevent them:

1. Use skincare products with noncomedogenic ingredients (will prevent pores from clogging)
2. Cleanse your skin both morning and night
3. Incorporate an exfoliant into your skincare regimen (will remove dead skin cells)
4. Incorporate a "clay-based" mask into your skincare regimen (will draw excess oil out of the follicle)
5. Incorporate a facial (professional cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, steam treatment, massage, etc) by an esthetician into your skincare regimen (the benefits are countless!)

Because my skin is pretty much normal, but with an oily t-zone, my blackheads show up around my nose and between my eyebrows. I'm able to keep them under control with exfoliation, using a clay-based mask on those areas only, and monthly facials.

Any questions? Love your skin.

With the start of the new year, there's no better time to begin a skincare regimen then now! Every client I've seen for a facial thus far this new year has asked me what they should be doing at home to care for their skin. Here is my recommendation for an at-home skincare regimen in between facials:

1. Cleanse morning & night (never go to bed without cleansing your face!)
2. Tone after cleansing morning & night
3. Use your moisturizer with a minimum of SPF 15 during the day (very, very important!)
4. Use your moisturizer at night
5. Use an eye cream both morning and night under your moisturizer
6. Exfoliate 2x a week
7. Use your mask 2x a week
8. Take a multi-vitamin daily
9. Drink at minimum of 8 glasses of water daily
10. Eat fresh green vegetables at least 3x a week
11. Make sure you're getting adequate sleep!

Most important of all- make sure you're using products for your skin type. For instance, if you have oily skin, look for products for oily skin. Also, make sure your products are labeled "noncomedogenic" which simply means that they won't clog pores.

Love your skin.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!