Beauty – Best Health

The Best Face and Body Drugstore Sunscreens for All Skin Types

Alicia Cox Thomson — Thu, 18 May 2023 15:00:38 +0000

Best Drugstore Face Sunscreen for Dry Skin: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face Serum Sunscreen SPF 50+

This powerful and hydrating sunscreen is light and quick to absorb into the skin. It’s a smart choice for dry skin thanks to added vitamin E, which helps to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier and keeps it hydrated all day. It goes on and dries clear and is water resistant, with SPF 50+ and UVA and UVB protection.Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face Serum Sunscreen SPF 50+ $21, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: Consonant Skincare The Perfect Sunscreen SPF 30

This 100 percent natural sunscreen is mineral-based, but the zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are micronizedmeaning, they’re transformed into tiny particles so they wont irritate sensitive skin. Grape seed oil and aloe leaf extract soothe skin to hydrate it without greasiness or chemicals. It’s lightly tinted and doesn’t deliver a white cast after drying.Consonant Skincare The Perfect Sunscreen SPF 30, $45, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Face Sunscreen for Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Fluid Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF50

Avoid feeling greasy even on the hottest days with this sunscreen that dries invisible and matte. It’s hypoallergenic and non-comedogenicmeaning it won’t irritate skin or clog poresso it’s recommended for both sensitive and acne-prone skin.La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Fluid Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, $32, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Face Sunscreen for Darker Tones: Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Face Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 50

This popular sunscreen offers both broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and is oil-free, non-comedogenic and moisturizing. Safe for all skin types, it’s particularly beneficial for people with more melanin thanks to its invisible application.Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Face Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 50, $21, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Body Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen Sheer Lotion Body SPF 50

This award-winning Australian sheer mineral sunscreen is a crowd-favourite due to its combo of high protection against UVA and UVB rays and natural ingredients like papaya, aloe, cucumber and shea butter, which soothe and hydrate skin. It ticks all the boxes: Water resistance, fast-absorbing, reef-friendly and fragrance-free.Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen Sheer Lotion Body SPF 50, $22, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Body Sunscreen Spray: Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Weightless Sunscreen Spray, SPF 50

This bestselling continuous spray sunscreen goes on so light and smooth that youll forget its even on. Its hardworking and water-resistant, offering up to 12 hours of hydration and high sun protection from UVA and UVB rays. What’s more, it’s dermatologist-tested, oil-free and reef-friendly.Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Weightless Sunscreen Spray, SPF 50, $17, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Face and Body Sunscreen for Active Days: Garnier Ombrelle Sport Endurance Sun Protection Lotion SPF 60

If sweaty or water activity is on your itinerary, you’re going to want a sunscreen that’s sweat- and water-resistant. This dermatologist-tested lotion is hypoallergenic and non-greasy and has proven to protect wet skin from the suns harmful UVA and UVB rays. Plus, it wont block pores, because its non-comedogenic and oil-free.Garnier Ombrelle Sport Endurance Sun Protection Lotion SPF 60, $31, well.ca

Best Drugstore Face Sunscreen Stick: Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+

This powerful, ocean-friendly sunscreen stick is a great pick for all skin types. It goes on clear, making it ideal for darker tones, and it’s water-resistant, ready to withstand high-activity days.Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+, $40, shoppersdrugmart.caNext:5 of the Best Drugstore Retinol Serums for Every Skin Type

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Could Psychodermatology Be the Key to Healthier Skin?

Renée Reardin — Wed, 10 May 2023 11:00:17 +0000

When a blemish appears on your skin, chances are you jump into repair mode. You examine it, review your arsenal of beauty products, and calculate the best treatment to clear it up immediately. You may even consider prevention tacticsanalyzing your food diary to eliminate a potential trigger, or finally replacing that face maskto ensure there are no reappearances. But then it returns. Why? Maybe youre not treating the right thing. A new school of thought suggests that treating skin problems may have more to do with your mind.

What is psychodermatology?

Original reports of the connection between the mind and the body have been around for hundreds of thousands of years, and were now rediscovering these connections, says Mark Kirchhof, a certified dermatologist at Ottawa Derm Centre. The study of this relationship is called psychodermatology, which is the combination of psychiatry and dermatology. It explores the interplay between the mind and the bodyhow skin diseases can affect the mind and how the mind can affect skin diseases, says Kirchhof.Recent interest in psychodermatology came from the finding that people who have skin diseases also typically have high levels of depression, anxiety and other psychiatric comorbidities. Researchers found that when those patients were treated for their skin disease, their psychiatric conditions improved. Recently the reverse has been investigatedif we treat the mind, can the skin disease get better? says Kirchhof. That seems to be the case as well.

How does psychodermatology work?

It comes down to the way the mind, the endocrine system, and the skin interact, says Kirchhof. Anxious thoughts, stressful situations, anger, and depression impact the nervous system. These thoughts can work their way from the brain, through the endocrine system, and show up on the face and body.Skin conditions that can be caused byand could causepsychiatric conditions include psoriasis, eczema, hyperhidrosis, hives, cold sores and acne, says Kirchhof. How do you know when a skin condition has a psychiatric cause? A dermatologist can help with the assessment. [Dermatologists] have lots of patients who are looking for alternative treatments, and we encourage them, says Kirchhof. If they dont work, then we’re happy to add on treatments and prescription medications that can help.

What are the treatments?

Treatment options vary from person to person. Some conditions are more psychiatric and less dermatological and others are highly dermatological and less psychiatric, says Kirchhof. The best form of treatment will depend on where the disease falls on this spectrum.Studies show that if you treat the skin issues of people suffering from depression or anxiety, their symptoms will improve as well. For teenagers with severe acne and depression, Kirchhof will often treat the acne first. Then, Ill determine if their depression has resolved or if there’s still an underlying psychiatric disease that requires further treatment.Conversely, a recent study also showed those with depression or anxiety are at a higher risk of developing skin diseases such as psoriasis. The treatment? Taking antidepressants, which can protect against developing a skin disease. Some of the medications and treatments that we might use in psychiatry may help in dermatology, says Kirchhof, and some of the treatments that we use in dermatology may help in psychiatry.If you suspect your mental health may be causing a particular skin condition, Kirchhof recommends first seeing a dermatologist and doing your research, then potentially reaching out to a psychiatrist. “Some psychiatrists may not be aware of these connections and may not entertain treating the psychiatric component to improve the skin disease, he says. Find a psychiatrist who is interested and willing to help in that regard.

How much can stress impact your skin?

Stress, Kirchhof says, can impact skin diseases tremendously.” It can cause skin disorders and also exacerbate current ones. Studies show if you treat or lower stress, you can improve some skin conditions, says Kirchhof. He often recommends treating both skin and psychiatric conditions with stress-reducing techniques, whether on their own or in conjunction with medication.Studies show mindfulness, meditation, positive thinking, exercise, and cognitive behavioural therapy can have a positive impact on skin disease, says Kirchhof. When we’re treating a severe skin disease, it appears that practicing mindfulness or meditation techniques make the treatments work better in those people than in groups that do not.So next time a mark or a flair-up appears, instead of jumping into repair mode, which will only increase your cortisol levels further, sink into relaxation mode. It might be just what the mark needs to healno pricey product necessary.Next:This Unexpected Technique Can Help Control Anxiety

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Here’s Why Lip Oils Are Currently Trending

Rebecca Gao — Fri, 05 May 2023 15:00:11 +0000

Im always looking for a new way to add a little je ne sais quoi to my makeup look, which typically means updating my lipstick colour. For years I leaned on long-wear matte options (remember the Kylie Lip Kit craze?), but now Im turned off of anything that leaves my lips feeling remotely chapped. I’ve tried lip glosses, lip stains and even hydrating lipsticks, but found them all to be too drying. Conveniently, there’s a new buzzy lip product on the scene that’s everything I’ve been looking forlip oil.

What is lip oil?

Sitting somewhere between a lip balm and gloss, lip oils are the best of both worlds. Theyre nourishing and hydrating like a balm, and provide a tinted sheen like a gloss (but without the sticky ickiness). Lip oils are sometimes marketed as a hydrating serum, formulated with moisturizing and plumping ingredients like vitamin E, peptides and hyaluronic acid, which makes them a bit like a skin-care product.Lip oils have been around for a while, but they’ve recently gained popularity thanks to TikTok users gushing over picks from various brands. One particular product, the Dior lip oil, has gone viral with the#diorlipoil hashtag garnering nearly 700 million viewsand now retailers have a hard time keeping it in stock.

If lip oils are considered a hydrating serum, does that mean theyre good for your lips?

According to Renita Ahluwalia, founder and lead dermatologist at the Canadian Dermatology Centre, lip oils can be really good for your lipsbut it depends on the ingredients they contain. Oil is a sealant, which locks in moisture, says Ahluwalia, but “if a product contains oil without some other hydrating ingredients, youre not going to get a long-lasting hydration benefit.Ahluwalia says some lip oils are formulated with oils that provide superficial hydration” (like Dior’s version, which contains cherry oil), meaning they can make lips look hydrated, but won’t provide long-term benefits.

So, what ingredients in a lip oil should I look for if I want hydration?

If youre looking for a product thats both an aesthetic product and provides long-term hydration, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid which draws water into the skin,” says Ahluwalia.Other ingredients to look for include peptides (which encourage the body to produce collagen), squalane (which offers more hydration) and shea butter (which softens skin), she says.

Is there anything I should be aware of?

Do a patch test before using itas you should do with any new product. Ahluwalia says that some ingredients like coconut oil and jojoba oil can cause seborrheic dermatitis (which manifests in dry, flakey red patches) in those who are predisposed. Some people, especially those with sensitive skin, might also have reactions to scented oils in some products.

Which lip oil should I try?

Below, our favourite picks.

Best Hydrating Lip Oil: Kosas Wet Lip Oil Plumping Treatment Gloss

This lightly-tinted lip oil from clean beauty brand Kosas contains hyaluronic acid and peptides, which leaves lips feeling hydrated and looking plump.$28, sephora.com

Best Budget-Friendly Lip Oil: NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip

This budget-friendly lip oil contains squalane and promises to provide 12-hour hydration. It’s currently trending online, which has led it to sell out in drugstores everywhere. But don’t worryit’s available in some shades on the brand’s website.$14, nyxcosmetics.ca

Best Splurge Lip Oil: Dior Lip Glow Oil Color

This lip oil is definitely worth the hype (and price tag): Its non-sticky and non-greasy and provides a beautiful gloss in six subtle tints.$50, shop.shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Tinted Lip Oil: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil

This lip oilfrom singer-actor Selena Gomezs buzzy makeup line, Rare Beautydelivers long-wearing colour and sheen. When first applied, the innovative formula looks and feels like a gel and then dries into an oil. The best part? Its also a lip stainitll leave a tint on lips that lasts hours after application.$26, sephora.com

Best Untinted Lip Oil: Burts Bees Hydrating Lip Oil

Burts Bees lip oil is formulated with sweet almond oil, which contains fatty acids and antioxidants, which smooth and hydrate skin. It doesn’t have a tint, so you can layer it under your favourite lip shade if you want some colour.$10, shop.shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Lip Oil: Quo Lip Oil

This lip oil from Quo is super affordable (just $10!), non-sticky (hair doesn’t get stuck to it!) and made without animal testing (cruelty-free!).$10, shop.shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Scented Lip Oil: Clarins Lip Comfort Hydrating Oil

Often cited as a dupe for the Dior lip oil, this one from Clarins uses a cocktail of oils (jojoba, hazelnut and sweetbriar rose) to hydrate, nourish and protect lips. It also provides a sheer hue and boasts a light, pleasant fragrance reminiscent of a Lip Smacker lip balm.$32, sephora.com

Best My Lips But Better Lip Oil: Haus Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil

Lady Gagas Haus Labs lip oil is formulated with vegan collagen and plant squalane for a super-nourishing shine. It changes colour depending on the pH of your lips, so the tint is sure to complement your skin tone.$31, sephora.com

Best Clean and Vegan Lip Oil: Merit shade Slick Gelee Sheer Tinted Lip Oil

Clean beauty brand Merit has a lip oil with a vegan formulation, leaning on plant squalene for hydration. It’s tinted and lightweight, making it perfect for no-makeup makeup looks.$31, sephora.comNext: The Best Drugstore Lipsticks

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Is It Actually Possible to Shrink Large Pores? Experts Weigh In

Caitlin Agnew — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:00:20 +0000

The #flawless nature of social-media filters has left many desiring a skin texture thats completely smooth and pore freeimpossible IRL. But Elizabeth Layton, regional education trainer at M.A.C Cosmetics, says that large pore size has actually long been a concern in the makeup chair. People commonly complain that they see their pores as large and have been unable to diminish their appearance with skin care and makeup, says Layton. They often fixate on these perceived flaws rather than celebrating their beautiful features. She adds that all of this constant exposureboth to highly edited images and ads for products that falsely claim to completely erase poresdoesnt help.The images set an unrealistic expectation for the consumer who now expects near-instant results.(Related: Hows Your Skin Barrier Doing? (Heres How to Know)Its important to remember that our pores do in fact serve a very important function. Dr. Geeta Yadav, board-certified dermatologist, and founder of FACET Dermatology in Toronto, explains that these tiny openings on the skins surface are connected to the sebaceous glands (the organ that secretes sebum) beneath, and function as release valves to allow sebum to flow to the skin’s surface, keeping it balanced and nourished. Unfortunately, pores can expand over time. As skin becomes more lax with age, so do the pores on your skin, Yadav says, adding that pores can also become larger when they are congested with sebum.But, there are some strategies for maintaining or temporarily reducing pore size and a glut of new pore-minimizing products to choose from. Skin-care formulas can reduce the appearance of pores, but not necessarily shrink them permanently once they have been dilated, Yadav says. She recommends using products with salicylic acid, also known as beta-hydroxy acid, an oil-soluble ingredient that can go within the pore where it breaks down excess sebum that may be causing congestion. By doing this, sebum can effectively and smoothly flow through the pore rather than worsen any blockages,” she says. Retinoids can also help, particularly when large pores are caused by weaker and oily skin. They regulate oil production while helping to strengthen the skin and promote collagen production, says Yadav.At dermatologist offices, professional treatments like laser skin resurfacing and microneedling are the most popular in reducing pores. Yadav says they work by causing intentional, controlled damage to skin that stimulates collagen production. When the laser damages the skin, your skin goes into overdrive with its natural healing response, generating new collagen which will help firm up the look of pores.Makeup can also diminish the look of pores through light-refracting and blurring effects. M.A.Cs Layton suggests following a hydrating skin-care routine, as makeup wears better on moisturized skin, and applying a primer before foundation. When seeking a foundation to minimize texture, I suggest products that blur and trick the lightalmost mimicking a filter, she says. Use it all over the face to even tone or spot-cover to address the areas where you want more blurring.One of Laytons pro tips to soften the appearance of large pores is to apply powder, which she points out is also a great choice for those who dont want to wear foundation. The new generation of powders are refined, gentle and non-drying, leaving skin with a weightless blur, she says. Her top pick? M.A.Cs new Studio Fix Pro Set + Blur Weightless Loose Powder, a light-reflecting setting powder with a matte finish. Its so soft, blurs and smooths the look of pores and creates a breathable veil, Layton says. Its like your skin but better.Our top skin care and makeup picks for minimizing large pores:Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores, $39.50, origins.caDermalogica Porescreen SPF 40, $77, dermalogica.caSkinceuticals Silymarin CF Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment, $182, skinceuticals.comM.A.C Studio Fix Pro Set + Blur Weightless Loose Powder, $44,maccosmetics.caNext: The Best Skin Care Routine for Your Age, According to Dermatologists

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I Tried a Hairline Tattoo to See If It Could Cover Up My Balding Head

Leah Rumack — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 11:00:16 +0000

The photo is horrifying. Taken from behind, the offending piece of evidence shows a spreading white circle at the crown of my head that glows as if its desperately signaling to its alien pals in a dimension far, far away. The evidence is clear: Im not just going greyIm also going bald. And Im not alone.Hair loss in women can be sparked by a laundry list of factors including genetics, thyroid issues, stress, vitamin and mineral deficiency, the hormonal blitzkrieg of menopause and the general effects of aging on all our tissues, including the lusciousness of our locks. According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, about 40 percent of women will experience some form of hair loss by the time they hit 50. Since I pride myself on always being right on time, I started noticing naked spots as soon as I hit my late forties. Ive never been a glorious Rapunzel, but this is just rude. Wearing a jaunty beret every day seems cute but impractical, so I started researching options. Treatments like platelet-rich plasma injections straight into my scalp to kick start hair growth or teeny, tiny hair transplants are expensive and painful; a topical like Rogaine is way too slow; and daily use of colour sprays have destroyed my pillowcases and couch. But then I discover a relatively simple way to fill in the sparse areas on my lid: a tattoo.(Related: The Root Cause of Thinning Hair and Hair Loss for Women)Scalp Micropigmentation, or SMP, is a cosmetic procedure that uses micropigmentationa permanent makeup technique thats already popular for filling in sparse eyebrows and tattooing on freckles on the scalp. Artists use a pen-like tattoo machine to draw thousands of tiny dots that mimic hair follicles. If youre bald, the results will look like youve just shaved your head, and if you still have hair but want to fill in some areas like I do, it camouflages the empty spots and makes the surrounding hair look thicker. It can also help hide scars and can be used on all skin tones, though if your scalp is prone to inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema, youll have to clear that up before you can get SMP.SMP is newish and permanent makeup isnt regulated in Canada, making it simple for anyone to take a weekend course and say theyre certified, so its very much buyer beware when it comes to choosing a technician. SMP uses special inks and is super preciseif you go too deep with the needle the ink can spread into ugly blobs, but if you dont go deep enough the colour will fade quicklyso its key to go to someone who has experience and whose facilities have passed municipal health code inspections (i.e. not some lady who does SMP as a side hustle in her basement!). A good place to look for a skilled practitioner is a medically supervised hair transplant clinic that also offers SMP. But I decide to go old school with a recommendation from Pretty in the City owner Veronica Tran, a permanent makeup artist who Id gone to for my eyebrows, and end up at Scalp Amplified Studios in Oakville. Ive seen people tattooing peoples heads after watching videos on YouTube, shudders owner Renata Pruszewski. There are a lot of botch jobs coming out. Pruszewski has been doing permanent makeup for 13 years, was one of the first SMP practitioners in Canada and has racked up several international SMP awards, so I feel safe in her hands. Which is good, because Im going to be spending a lot of time with her scribbling on my head. People who want to cover near or total baldness need anywhere between two and four sessions at two to four hours eachit takes a lot of time to draw on all those wee dotsbut because I still have a fair amount of hair, Pruszewski says Ill only need two visits.While the cost varies depending on how complicated the job is, prices start at around $700 per session. Im game, but Im worried about what will happen when my husband finally manages to pry the hair-dye bottle out of my cold, dead hands and I eventually let my hair go greyan inevitability that even the vainest among us (hi! me!) must eventually face. Will I have a weird dark tattoo helmet under my snow-white locks? Pruszewski assures me that hair follicles are related to your skin tone, not the colour of your hair, so the SMP dots will still look natural even if I give up dyeing my hair. And, like all tattoos, SMP fades with time, especially if youre not applying sunscreenwhich most women dont do to their scalp, even though there are specialty SPF sprays. While the results can technically last up to seven years, Pruszewski says many clients come in for touch-ups at the two-year mark.Im ready, and I feel bold. I was an emo Gen Xer, after all, which means I already have two actual tattoos. How bad can this be? The answer is: Its not bad at all. While its definitely not pleasant, I find it pretty tolerable, like shes drawing on my scalp with a very sharp pen for three hours. Im able to chit chat and look at my phone, which, in my books, is about as good as it gets for a semi-permanent procedure involving a needle. Theres no bleeding, but my scalp is red and sore for a week, and so, so itchy. Im not allowed to sweat excessively or wash my hair for three days (best. shower. ever), and while youre technically fully healed after two weeks, Pruszewski says I shouldnt dye my roots for a month.But the results are instantaneous. When done well, SMP is both extremely subtle and quite noticeable in that it looks better, but you cant tell what, exactly, has been done. And if the flood of intrigued messages I got from women after I posted some before-and-after pics on Instagram is any indication, its a procedure thats about to get a lot more popular.Next: Why You Should Tell Your Derm About Hair Loss

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What to Know About Azelaic Acid, the New Buzzy Acne-Crushing Ingredient

Rebecca Gao — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 17:30:35 +0000

Whether youre fighting acne, hoping to give your complexion a glow or looking to even out your skin tone, youve probably tried or considered using trendy ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, glycolic acid and salicylic acid. All ingredients have their ideal uses (and work differently for different skin types), but can be harder to navigate because of their strong effects on the skin. Enter: Azelaic acid, an under-the-radar ingredient thats well-tolerated by even the most sensitive skin and has a wide range of uses.While the ingredient has been around for a while, its now making its way into more and more products on store shelveswith many brands adding the ingredient to new formulas.We spoke with Monica Li, a Vancouver-based dermatologist and clinical instructor at the department of dermatology and skin science at the University of British Columbia, about azelaic acid to determine if its worth adding to our skin care routine.

What is azelaic acid?

Azelaic acid is a naturally occuring form of dicarboxylic acidits something that is naturally produced on our skin, explains Li. Its produced by a healthy? yeast that lives on our skin called malassezia furfur and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

What are the benefits of azelaic acid?

While your skin naturally makes azelaic acid, giving your skin more of it via skin care products can help you take greater advantage of its benefits. At its prescription-level potency, its mostly used to treat acne and rosacea, says Li. Because of its antibacterial properties, it can kill the bacteria on your skin that causes acne. And its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe rosacea, which often causes redness, swelling and acne-like breakouts.Azelaic acid also has exfoliating properties. But, it differs from other acids like AHAs and BHAs because its gentle, so you avoid the dryness, redness and irritation that can come from harsher exfoliants. It has a bit of what we call a keratolytic property, meaning it can unclog some of the debris that clogs up pores, says Li.The ingredient also works as a skin brightener and for managing hyperpigmentation because it inhibits something called tyrosine, which is an enzyme on our skin that produces pigment, says Li. And because [azelaic acid] inhibits it, it can treat unwanted pigmentation on the skin and even skin tone.But its gentleness is its biggest draw, making it safe for people who normally wouldnt be able to use comparable products. Li points to pregnant people or people who are breastfeeding as an example. Typically, pregnant people are told to cut retinol out of their skin care routine. But, azelaic acid is safe in pregnancy, and its an option to explore if someone is dealing with pigmentation or acne when pregnant, says Li.

How do I use azelaic acid?

As with all new skin care products, patch test on the back of your wrist or behind the ears a few days before applying to your face to make sure it doesnt cause irritation, itchiness or other problems.Then, start slow. While the ingredient can be used up to twice a day, morning and night, Li recommends introducing it to your skin care routine slowly, using it once a day, three times a week. Azelaic acid is considered gentle, but its still an exfoliant and it can take your skin time to get used to it. From there, you can gradually increase frequency if your skin is tolerating the ingredient well, meaning that your skin isnt red, itchy or experiencing a burning sensation when you use it. If you dont see results immediately, Li says thats normal. Its a very gentle ingredient so itll take at least six to eight weeks of consistent use to see effects.Apply azelaic acid onto clean, dry skin as the first step of your skin care routine, before other serums. And Li reminds users to follow it with a moisturizer to improve the tolerability of the product. And, of course, dont forget to protect your skin with a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Where can I find azelaic acid?

Just like any other skin care ingredient, azelaic acid is typically found in serums, creams and gels. Its not as ubiquitous (yet!) but there are a few products in Canada that contain azelaic acid, all coming in different forms.First, there are the prescription-level gels that derms can providethe strongest potency in Canada being 15 percent, which is stronger than over-the-counter products and are for those using it as an acne or rosacea treatment, says Li. As for over-the-counter options, Drunk Elephant recently launched their Bouncy Brightfacial in Canada, a leave-on mask meant to clarify skin tone and fade spots that contains 10 percent azelaic acid. Paulas Choice is has a 10 percent Azelaic Acid Booster. And, theres SkinCeuticalss Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment moisturizer, which includes a less potent dose with just 3 percent.

Is there anyone who shouldnt use azelaic acid?

Of course, you should stay away from azelaic acid if you have an allergic reaction or a hypersensitivity to the ingredient, says Li. Or, if youre someone who has severe cystic acne, its unlikely that azelaic acid is going to do much. Youd need to talk to a doctor and get prescriptions that arent just topical.For those with sensitive skin or pigmented skin, Li advises caution when using azelaic acid because it could cause inflammation and post-inflammatory pigmentation. The irritation causing skin inflammation stimulates melanocytes – cells that can produce excess pigment on the skin surface – and in more richly pigmented individuals, or anyone who isnt fair skinned, these melanocytes are more easily activated, she says. I wouldnt say you cant use it, but be careful.Next: Hows Your Skin Barrier Doing? (Heres How to Know)

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How’s Your Skin Barrier Doing? (Here’s How to Know)

Caitlin Agnew — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 14:50:10 +0000

On a recent trip to a Sephora store, I was greeted by a sign with the words, Support skin barrier. It’s messaging that joins a recent spate of new serums, moisturizers and cleansers all geared towards maintaining, protecting or repairing your skins barrier. However loosely you follow skin-care trends, chances are youve noticed that this is the latest mission-critical. And its left many wonderingthis beauty writer includedjust what exactly the skin barrier is, and why its in need of such support.Sometimes referred to as the moisture barrier, the skin barrier is another term for the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin. Its about as thick as a single strand of hair and is the first layer of defense in protecting your skin and your body from the external environment. Toronto-based dermatologist, founding director of the Bay Dermatology Centre and assistant professor at the University of Toronto Dr. Sandy Skotnicki likens the stratum corneum to a brick wall, with the cells being the bricks and the natural oils and ceramides being the mortar. When you damage your skin barrier, youre damaging that brick wall. Usually the mortar, which is the natural lipids, are removed, Skotnicki explains. One common example is when a soap molecule bonds with not only the surface grease youre trying to remove but also with the skins lipid molecules, removing those lipids and leaving holes in the stratum corneums brick-and-mortar.A skin barrier thats been damaged may demonstrate visual cues like redness and flakiness or sensations like dryness, burning and itching. A minorly damaged skin barrier may not display any symptoms at all. However, this damage can still lead to negative consequences for the skin like inflammation by allowing more UV light and pollution to penetrate the skins deeper layers.There is a litany of ways the skin barrier can become weakened, and its not just aggressive cosmetic treatments like weekly chemical peels or nightly retinol applications that are doing you dirty. Skotnicki explains that everything from soap to hot water and even wind can weaken your barrier. I dont think the general public knows that the act of washing yourself damages your skin barrier, Skotnicki says. Your skin barrier is always [getting] messed up, every time you wash your face. Its a constant thing. Its a phenomenon she examines at length in her 2018 book Beyond Soap: The Real Truth About What You Are Doing to Your Skin and How to Fix It for a Beautiful, Healthy Glow.To help keep your barrier in tip-top shape, Skotnicki says that moisturizing is the first step. And while all moisturizers will support your skin barrier to some degree, those displaying obvious signs of a weakened barrier (redness, irritation, flaking et cetera) or having skin diseases like eczema, rosacea and dermatitis (which cause an inherently weaker barrier), will want to seek out products with ingredients that more actively repair your barrier, like lipids such as ceramides, and free fatty acids such as linoleic acids. Skotnicki also recommends using moisturizers with ingredients that decrease inflammation and irritation. When you have a disrupted skin barrier, your skin may be slightly more irritated and inflamed, and [it] cant hold in water as well because that brick wall is not functioning and thats why you can get a bit of irritation.Also, try using a pH-balanced cleanser (typically, thats one thats clear and bubble- and foam-free, and often labelled some variation of pH balanced) on your face and body to minimize disruption to the lipids in the stratum corneum and washing in warm, not hot, water. And for those of us who enjoy a more extensive, multi-step skin-care regimen, Skotnicki says that skin cycling may offer some relief. This derm-backed TikTok beauty trend involves the regular application of active ingredients, like alpha hydroxy acid or a retinoid, followed by about two rest days, where no active ingredients are used to allow skin time to recover and maintain a healthy barrier.At the end of the day, Skotnicki is quick to point out that most of us have skin thats adept at repairing itself and that much of the skin-barrier buzz is yet another marketing trend. If you follow a simple skin-care routine of washing and moisturizing your skin once or twice a day, Skotnicki says you can rest assured that your skin barrier is probably more than healthy. Our skin has an incredible ability to buffer itself.

Our top picks that “support skin barrier”

Three Ships Replenish Ceramides + Blueberry Barrier Repair Serum, $40 at thedetoxmarket.caLa Roche Posay Lipikar Baume AP+M, $34, shoppersdrugmart.comKiehls Ultra Facial Advanced Barrier Repair Cream, $55, sephora.caNext: How to Tell If Youre Exfoliating Too Much

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The Dos and Don’ts of Using a Pumice Stone

Nadine Jolie Courtney — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 15:00:49 +0000

One of the most commonly used tools for at-home spa treatments (and pedicures in particular) is a pumice stone. You’ve probably seen one of thesemight’ve even used one without being entirely sure what it is.Turns out, the miracle foot tool is actually a volcanic rock.”A pumice stone is a natural stone that was created by the union of water and lava. The boiling lava cooled when water mixed into it, releasing gases that created a slab with holes,” explains Natalie Aguilar, a dermatological nurse and celebrity aesthetician. “They come in many shapes and sizes and have multiple household uses, from body care to scrubbing grease off a stove.””It’s great that people are starting to pay more attention to their feet,” Correa says. “It’s important, however, to make sure they are getting the proper education on the dos and don’ts.” (More on those later.)Here, everything you need to know about this handy little foot tool.

What to look for when buying a pumice stone

The first thing to know is that different types of pumice stones have different uses.”A flatter stone is best used for larger areas, while a round stone works best to contour certain edges, like the side of the foot,” says celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann. “I find that a stone with a handle really helps with the hard-to-reach areas and is also great for the nail beds and cuticle area. Stones that have a rough and smooth side allow you to scrub and smooth with one tool.”Celeste Hilling, founder and CEO of skin care company Skin Authority, says that most stones purchased through a beauty supply store or drugstore are fine. “We usually recommend a double-sided stone, which has a rougher side as well as a smoother side, so you can vary pressure and resurfacing based on the area of the feet,” she says.Some pedicurists prefer using natural stones. “Not only is it better for the environment, I find they work better,” says Amber Johnson, an aesthetician and founder of Facial Lounge, a spa in Corona Del Mar, California.(Related: 8 Homemade Foot Scrub Recipes to Pamper Tired Feet)

How to use a pumice stone

“Pumice stones are a preferred option for at-home use in the shower or bath to alleviate dry, calloused feet and toes,” says Tia Delponte, owner of Tia’s Corner and an aesthetician at Color Up Wellness Center.She recommends using a hard pumice stone to smooth the cracked and scaly areas of the feet. For the bottom of the feet and the tips of the toes, she prefers a softer pumice.The key is to soak your feet first. That’ll soften your skin enough that you can slough off dead cellswithout hurting your foot. “The reason most nail salons soak the feet is to remove hardened skin that forms on the bottom and sides of our feet easily, and without hurting the skin or causing pain,” Correa says. Many nail salons opt for pumice stones over metal graters, says Correa. They’re gentler on your skin, whereas metal graters can cause cuts and lesions to the feet when used improperly.

Potential dangers

“I love a great pumice stone because it’s a simple and effective way to get rid of dead skin,” says Lippmann. “As long as you exercise caution when using them, they are safe.”The caution part of her statement? Yeah, that’s important. Though pumice stones are often safe for most people, there are a few issues you need to be aware of.

Bacteria

As much as you want smooth feet, you probably aren’t too keen on introducing bacteria to your skin in the process. So the golden rule of using a pumice stone: clean it! (More on how to clean it later.)If you don’t properly clean your stone, it can breed bacteria, says Delponte. “The biggest concern with using a pumice stone is making sure that it doesn’t collect bacteria,” she says. “It’s important to clean after every use with a scrub brush and leave the pumice stone out to dry in between uses.”Sharing a pumice stone with another person (a big no-no) is another way you increase the chances of bacterial growth.

Pumice burn

Lippmann cautions against overusing pumice stonesyou might remove too much skin.Delponte agrees, saying over-exfoliation can have some pretty painful consequences. “When that happens, it is called ‘pumice burn’ and will leave your skin exposed and tender, creating pain while walking,” she says.The best way to use a pumice stone is lightly (there’s no need to scrub like you’re scouring a food-crusted cooking dish) and more often.

Scratches and tears

Be mindful about where you use the pumice stone. Steer clear of soft skin, like the stuff on the top of your foot, your toes, and the ball of your foot.In general, if your feet are sensitive or have thinner skin, you should be cautious, says Peterson Pierre, MD, a dermatologist and founder of the Pierre Skincare Institute.”Pumice stones should never be used on areas of thin skin,” he says. “You should focus primarily on calluses and corns typically found on hands and feet. There’s no point in being overly aggressive: it won’t make your results any better, and you may cause wounds if you’re not careful.”You can also harm your skin by using it improperly. “Using a pumice stone dry may damage your skin,” she says. It’s best to use a pumice stone after a bath or shower, when your feet are wet.

Certain medical conditions

Hilling warns that people with certain conditions should avoid pumice stones. “When used correctly, pumice stones are generally safe,” she says. “However, we don’t recommend use for anyone who is on blood thinners, has diabetic ulcerations, or [has] poor circulation. These conditions make someone more susceptible to bleeding or an infection as a result of use.”In fact, some medical doctors say people with diabetes (whether or not they have foot ulcers) should avoid foot exfoliation altogether. And definitely skip this tool if you have nerve damage or a loss of sensation in your feet. If you have numbness, Hilling says, you may not feel the pressure. That can cause you to rub too deeply and injure your skin.Don’t use a pumice stone (or any other exfoliator) over cuts, scrapes, or other wounds. “You should avoid any areas with lesions [or] ulcers,” says Hilling. “You also want to avoid cuts or other areas which can get infected.”Instead, Hilling recommends a leave-on peel that will dissolve layers of dead skin.

Where to use a pumice stone on your foot

If your feet have patches of dry, thickened skin, a pumice stone may be just what you need. It’s particularly effective at removing rough patches of skin, such as the stuff that tends to form on the heels. “It’s best to use it on thicker skin, like calluses,” says Johnson.

How to use a pumice stone

First things first: Make sure your pumice stone is thoroughly clean, says Lippmann. Wet the stone (or let it soak in warm water while you’re soaking your feet). “We always recommend to never use the stone dry,” says Hilling. From there, follow these steps:

Soak your feet in lukewarm water for five to 10 minutes. (Or exfoliate after a bath or shower.)
Remove your feet. Pat them dry.
Apply the wet stone to the area. Using light pressure, rub in a circular motion until you see the dry skin removed.
Rinse your feet, then pat them dry.
Apply a moisturizer (Hilling suggests an alpha hydroxy acid cream; Johnson loves lanolin moisturizers) or moisturizing oil to maintain softness.
Wash your pumice stone, then lay it out to dry.

“You can repeat the steps a couple of days in a row until you get to the smoothness level, and then once a week to maintain,” says Hilling.

How should you care for the pumice stone?

By following these simple tricks, you can make sure your pumice stone stays clean and doesn’t transfer bacteria to your feet.

Store it properly

Think of the darker corners of your shower and how they begin to mildew if you don’t keep them clean. Your pumice stone has the same bacteria-breeding potential, so don’t leave it in the shower.”Every stone has a different protocol to disinfect. I tell people not to keep the stones in a dark, wet place like the shower,” Johnson says. Instead, store your stone in a dry place.

Clean it thoroughly

There are different ways to clean your pumice stone, but the most important thing is that you do it every time you use it. Skip cleanings, and your stone can breed bacteria.”It’s really important to always clean it after every use since bacteria can grow on the surface of the stone,” says Lippmann. “A bristle brush is a great way to scrub dead skin off the stone, but do so under running water and with a little soap.”Hilling likes to clean her stones after each use with an antibacterial cleanser.Want a deeper clean? Delponte recommends spraying pumice stones with 70 percent alcohol to make sure there is no chance of bacterial growth.Or try Lippman’s deep-cleaning tactic: “Boil your pumice stone in hot water for five minutes,” she says. Johnson uses this method, too, but she says it’s important to follow the directions of the brand you bought.Once your stone is clean, let it air dry completely before reusing. Only once it’s completely dry can it be stored in a dry, closed area.

Replace it regularly

“Pumice stones will wear down over time, becoming too smooth to remain effective,” says Lippmann. “If your stone becomes too small, smooth, or soft, replace it.”And while you and your partner might share everything from jokes to shampoo, this shouldn’t apply to pumice stones. “Do not share your pumice with other people!” Lippman says.Next: These Beauty Products Are the Solutions to All Your Foot Woes

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How to Find the Right Vitamin C Serum for You

Renée Reardin — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 11:00:01 +0000

One ingredient dermatologists consistently tout is vitamin C. Its adored for its ability to support collagen production, brighten dark spots, and prevent UVA/UVB damage, making it the gold standard of skin-care ingredients.Vitamin C acts as sort of a line of defense against sun damage, says Julia Carroll certified dermatologist at Compass Dermatology. Even if youve applied sunscreen (which, as any derm will preach, should be applied every single day), some ultraviolet light from the sun can still get through to your skin. This creates something called “reactive oxygen species” or “free radicals,” says Carroll, which damage the skins DNA. Vitamin C can help counteract that. So, it’s beneficial in terms of photoprotection, says Carroll, as it helps to prevent future damagebut also helps correct it.Vitamin C decreasespigmentation, says Carroll, and since it aids in collagen production, it also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Most of patients find the texture of their skin improves, and they get a bit more that glow that they’re looking for, says Carroll.Here, everything you need to know about choosing the right vitamin C serum for your skin, and how to apply it.(Related: 6 Drugstore Vitamin C Serums That Are Actually Amazing)

Can anyone use vitamin C?

Carroll says its one of her go-tos in terms of recommendations for clientsbut it may not be the best option for those with particularly sensitive skin. I dont recommend it to everybody because for some people it’s a little bit irritating, says Carroll. In those cases, she’ll suggest other products, depending on her clients’ needs, that can offer similar protection and benefits.

When should it be applied?

Apply it in the morning, and follow with sunscreenbut if you prefer applying it at night, your skin will still reap the benefits. A lot of the vitamin C serums have what’s called a reservoir effect, meaning they can last up to 72 hours. If you put it on at night, you would still be reaping the benefits the next day,” says Carroll.

How should it be applied?

Apply four to five drops on clean, dry skin. Prevent potentially wasting the product by using the dropper to drop the serum directly onto your faceone drop on the the forehead, one on each cheek, and one on the chin, and rubbing in. I might go back and touch up a certain area, and then I’ll run it down my neck as well the chest, says Carroll. Alternatively, you can drop it onto your fingertips, which are less absorbent than the palms of hands, and apply it that way.

How do you choose the best one for you?

Look for ones that have L-Ascorbic acid, says Carroll. You really want to look for that specific molecule [as opposed to just ascorbic acid] because we know that that molecule can penetrate the skin. Also, look for a concentration between 10 to 20 percent. If its under 10 percent, it’s likely not effective, and if it’s over 20 percent it’s just wasteful. Packaging is also important. Choose one that comes in an opaque or dark bottle, to prevent oxidization, says Carroll.

What are the best ones?

C E Peptides by Vivier is a great vitamin C serum but it also has the addition of peptides [which help firm skin], so its more of an all-in-one product, says Carroll. If pigmentation is a concern, Carroll recommends Phloretin CF by SkinCeuticals. If you have oily skin and acne is also a concern, she suggests Silymarin CF by SkinCeuticals, which is the brands newest vitamin C serum. In it, vitamin C is combined with salicylic acid, which helps clogged pores, says Carroll. Have dry skin and acne? Try Pro-Heal Serum Advance by iS Clinical.

Is there a budget-friendly option?

If there were a product out there that was extremely inexpensive, I don’t think that you’d get the percentages that would be the equivalent to what youd see in the higher-end ones, says Carroll. Some brands can be deceptive with their marketing and even their ingredients list, so Carroll suggests investing in one of high quality. My three non-negotiables are always sunscreen, topical vitamin C, and some type of retinoid, she says.

Is there anything to know before applying it?

Be careful with what you pair with vitamin C. I wouldn’t put it on at the same time as say a retinoid or glycolic acid, says Carroll. You don’t want too many active ingredients at one time because they can cancel each other outor it can just be too much for your skin to handle.Next: Hows Your Skin Barrier Doing? (Heres How to Know)

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Hair, Hair! Here’s What a Derm Has to Say About the Hair on Your Face

Best Health — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 11:00:36 +0000

If youve ever looked in the mirror and suddenly noticed a few backlit facial hairs, or if youve pricked your thumb on a spiky one, or if youve spotted an eyelash on your face but then realized, no, no, its attached, you may have wondered: Why? Why me? Why now? And what next?The thing is, hair on your face is very normal, and the reason is simple: Wherever theres a hair follicle, hair will grow. In fact, the only places hair will not grow are the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, says Monica Li, a dermatologist in Vancouver.We all have two different types of hair: vellus and terminal. Vellus hair is often referred to as peach fuzz, which pretty much grows on all of your skin during childhood. It can be fair or dark, a light amount or heavy. Terminal hair includes thicker, typically darker hair that makes up your head of hair, your brows and your lashes. It also replaces some of your childhood vellus hair during the hormonal storm of puberty, typically for women in the underarm and pubic areas. (For men, terminal hair starts growing on the chest, abdomen and face.)Li says that some women who are of Mediterranean or South Asian backgrounds tend to see more terminal hair growth, and on more areas of the body. But theres no biological or regional explanation for this.Certain medications can also trigger excess or unwanted hair growth, including cyclosporin, an immunosuppressant used to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. And biotin, a supplement believed to benefit skin, nails and hair, could also cause hair to grow not only on the top of your head, but also anywhere else on your body. Think about it: How is a supplement you take orally supposed to know that you want fuller, longer locks only on your scalp, and not, say, your upper lip? It cant isolate hair growth to a certain area and not another, says Li. (The research on biotins efficacy is inconclusive, she adds.)Some medical conditions where theres a hormonal imbalancesuch as congenital adrenal hyperplasia and polycystic ovary syndromecan also cause excessive hair growth. Called hirsutism, it occurs when a woman has a greater amount of male sex hormones than female sex hormones.What this looks like, says Irina Oroz, a dermatologist in Saskatoon, is basically increased hair growth in what we associate with a typically male distribution, so thats going to be on the chin and the upper lip. Hirsutism can also develop for postmenopausal women. As we get older, estrogen production decreases and our testosterone stays the sameand an excess amount of testosterone, compared to dropping estrogen, can cause facial hairs to start sprouting.Now to address the obvious question: If facial hair is so common, why do we feel pressure to pluck it out, wax it off or shave it down? In the early 1900s, manufacturers of safety razors wanted to expand their market, so they propagated the idea that pretty much all hair below the lower lash line on women was masculine, vulgar and unhygienicand therefore had to go. Marketers felt shaving was too manly for women to do, so they were encouraged to use a razor to smooth their legs and underarms, and to use bleach, wax and depilatory cream to remove facial hair. Unfortunately, these rudimentary hair removal practices could also irritate the skin. In some cases, women were exchanging hairs on their face for sore red bumps.Over a century later, facial hair removal for women is still the norm though beauty standards are shifting. Were seeing more acceptance around facial hair, particularly among gender-fluid communities, with more people choosing to subscribe to the beauty practices that suit themselves (and not the patriarchy) best. Weve also come a long way since the reaction-inducing bleach, wax and hair-dissolving products of the early 20th century.If youre interested in removing hair from your face, weve got expert tips from dermatologists for doing it right.

Tweezing

If youre talking about one little chin hair, an unruly nose hair or an out-of-place eyebrow strand, tweezing is your best bet. Because youre pulling the hair out of the hair follicle, it takes weeks for that hair follicle to grow new hair, says Li. Another perk: You dont need to wait for a hair to be a certain length before getting rid of it.Lasts three to six weeks.

Depilatory Creams

These are creams that are applied to skin and, after a few minutes, start breaking down the keratin protein in hair, making it easy to simply wipe them off at the skins surface, leaving you hair free for about a week. Warning: Most of these creams still have an unpleasant odour, caused by the chemical reaction between the cream and the hair. On the upside, the hair grows back with a tapered end, says Oroz. That means it wont grow back feeling pokey or sharp.Lasts one week.

Prescription cream

Vaniqa (eflornithine is the generic term) is a prescription cream approved by Health Canada and the FDA that helps slow the growth of facial hair. Usually applied twice a day as an adjunct to other hair removal methods, studies have shown that hair growth is reduced by an average of 58 percent after six months, according to Oroz. Its safe for all women, regardless of age, except those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or allergic or sensitive to one of the ingredients.Lasts six months to see reduced growth (then continue use to maintain results).

Threading

Threading, which is similar to tweezing, is most commonly used for brows in a professional setting because of the precision results. While there are many different threading methods, the technician typically uses a single piece of cotton thread to twist and pull along unwanted hair, lifting it from the root. (Sometimes the tech will hold one end of the thread in his or her mouth.)Lasts three to six weeks.

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is a fancier version of shaving, which comes with the added benefit of exfoliation. A lot of celebrities are advocating for dermaplaning because it can make skin look more glowy, says Oroz. Its used for removing peach fuzz as well as dead skin cells. However, dermaplaning can disrupt the skin barrier, causing irritation and razor burn. If you choose to do it yourself at home, make sure to use the right toolSephora has a highly rated Facial Razor Set for $15because the razor you use on your legs will likely be too rough for your face. Dermaplaning razors should only be used when theyre relatively new (the blade needs to be sharp), on dry, clean skin, and Oroz recommends moisturizing afterward.Lasts a few days.

Waxing and Sugaring

If waxing at home, Li advises using hard wax for sensitive areas like the face (or your underarms and bikini line), since hard wax sticks to hair but not skin. (Soft wax will stick to both the skin and the hair and is best suited for large areas such as the back, arms and legs.) She recommends cleansing skin before applying warmed wax in the direction of hair growth, pulling skin taut and yanking wax in the opposite direction, then following with a moisturizer to soothe the skin. Waxing may not be the best option for everyone, particularly those who take Accutane, have recently used retinol or have sensitive skin, according to Oroz. It can potentially lead to irritation, bruising and even scarring. For a gentler version, try going to a salon that does sugaring, which is similar to waxing but uses a paste typically made of sugar, lemon and water instead. The paste is ripped off by handno wax strip necessaryand is said to pull less on the skin.Lasts three to six weeks.

Electrolysis and Laser

Electrolysis treatment involves multiple sessions, usually spaced two to three weeks apart, by a trained technician who uses a very fine needle that passes a bit of electric current into the actual hair follicle to burn off the individual hair and damage the follicle, which prevents regrowth, says Li. Its not necessarily a permanent solution, especially if the underlying causes of hair growth havent been addressed, but it can lastpotentiallyfor years, adds Oroz. Laser treatment, meanwhile, offers partial, short-term hair reduction for up to six months on average after completing four to six sessions, she says. Because it targets pigment at the base of the follicle (damaging the cells there that allow hair to grow), it works best when the contrast between hair and skin is high, e.g., dark hair on fair skin, but there are lasers that will be helpful for those with blond or reddish hair, she says. Li recommends that patients with darker skin who have an inherently higher risk of post-procedure dyspigmentation perform a test patch (though its not a bad idea for everyone to test before either laser or electrolysis treatment). And proceed with caution if youve recently used retinol.Laser hair removal lasts anywhere from six months to two to three years. Electrolysis could theoretically last forever, but in reality, expect efficacy for several years only.Next: Hair Removal Myths to Stop Believing

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Hair Removal Myths to Stop Believing, According to Dermatologists

Renée Reardin — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 11:00:07 +0000

Many of us have been yanking out or slicing off unwanted hair since our tween years, and we’re been inundated with plenty of hair removal folklore along the way. Here, two dermatologists help us identify the BS.

Myth1: Plucked hair will eventually grow back

Anyone whos ever over-plucked their browsremember the 1990s?knows that facial hair doesnt always recover. With repeated hair removal, you can get a decrease in hair growth, says dermatologist Irina Oroz. Youre pulling the hair out of the hair shaft, and a small percentage can develop scarring, which closes off the hair follicles so new ones cant grow.

Myth2: Every time you shave, hair grows back darker and thicker

Shaving cannot change the thickness or colour of your hair. A razor blade is just not powerful enough to alter your DNA. But slicing off a hair can make the edge blunter, which is why hairs may feel sharp or stubbly.

Myth3: Waxing causes wrinkles

Despite all the yanking and pulling you may put your skin through in an effort to rip off facial hair, it wont cause skin to age more quickly, says dermatologist Monica Li. Yes, you have to be careful with the delicate skin on your face, but skin is generally durable, and it can certainly withstand some hot wax and a tug without causing wrinkles.

Myth4: Facial hair plucking can lead to a brain infection

The nasolabial triangle is the area from the bridge of the nose to the corners of the mouth linked closely through blood vessels to your brain, and some people say pulling out hair in this area could cause a life-threatening infection. Li, however, laughs at this particular myth. There is a potential risk of infection, she says, but a serious infection affecting the brain would be exceedingly rare.Next: Hair, Hair! Heres What a Derm Has to Say About the Hair on Your Face

The post Hair Removal Myths to Stop Believing, According to Dermatologists appeared first on Best Health.

5 of the Best Drugstore Retinol Serums for Every Skin Type

Alicia Cox Thomson — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 12:00:37 +0000

Best Drugstore Retinol for Newbies: RoC Skincare Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules

These award-winning, best-selling biodegradable capsules contain RoCs exclusive retinol formula, one of the strongest retinoids you can purchase without a prescription, plus bio-derived antioxidants that soothe and hydrate skin. Why the capsules? They take the guesswork out of how much product to apply, and also help keep the retinol potent.RoC Skincare Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules, $35, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Retinol for Sensitive Skin: Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum

This creamy serum contains “encapsulated retinol,” meaning it’s encased in a protective barrier (picture bubble wrap, if you will) that dissolves slowly into the skin to keep the ingredients potent. It contains two botanical retinol alternatives, arophira and bakuchiol, as well as chlorophyll for natural antioxidant power.Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum, $28, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Retinol for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: CeraVe Skin Resurfacing Retinol Serum

Slow-release, encapsulated retinol is also the delivery method in this serum that targets post-acne scars and uneven skin texture caused by larger pores. It gently exfoliates the skins outer layer, leaving it smooth, soft and more even in texture. The formula includes three ceramides (the fat cells that make up our skins outer layer), plus niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and retain moisture.CeraVe Skin Resurfacing Retinol Serum, $31, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Retinol for Mature or Dry Skin: La Roche-Posay Anti-Aging Retinol B3 Serum

The combination of two types of retinol plus vitamin B3 (aka hydrating niacinamide) makes this serum extra-potent without irritation. It contains a complex of pure retinol that sinks into skin immediately, plus a retinol that’s released slowly. Ideal for those with deeper wrinkles and fine lines, loss of elasticity and damage caused by sun, its tested and proven safe even for sensitive skin.La Roche-Posay Anti-Aging Retinol B3 Serum, $68, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Retinol for Vets: LOral Paris Serum with 0.3% Pure Retinol

If youve been using a retinol serum regularly and wear sunscreen faithfully, you could be ready to move to a stronger concentration. Made with one of the most powerful over-the-counter forms of pure retinol, this serum quickly stimulates the cell renewal process, leaving skin smoother and more toned. After two weeks, deep wrinkles can be visibly reduced.LOral Paris Serum with 0.3% Pure Retinol, Night Serum for Face, Fragrance-Free Revitalift Triple Power, $34, shoppersdrugmart.caNext: 6 Drugstore Vitamin C Serums That Are Actually Amazing

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The Best Ways to Care for Grey Hair

Claire Sibonney — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 12:00:24 +0000

After 16 years of dying my hair, I was fed up with the high-maintenance routine that went into covering up my blazing white streak. From the ages of 26 to 42, I spent hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars on upkeep. The only thing that stood in the way of quitting was my fear of looking…well, old and unattractive. But after weeks of soul searching and scrolling through countless Internet photos of confident women with gorgeous silver dos, I found the courage to show off my own sparkly strands. Freeing myself from this unnecessary chore seemed like a no-brainer. Do the scary thing, and the rest will follow, right?It wasnt that easy. As it turns out, nothing about hair and beauty standards is simple, and that includes caring for grey hair. Growing out my long, dark-chocolate-coloured locks took an agonizingly long time. Styling it was still work. And I was never going to look like British Vogue editor Sarah Harris, no matter what products I tried. Everyones hair is different and that includes a multitude of shades, patterns and textures.The age at which you go grey is also highly individual, and mostly depends on genetics, according to chemistry professor Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill Universitys Office for Science and Society. If one or both of your parents went grey at a young age, he tells me, youre more likely to start earlier as well. Disease and smoking are also known to speed up colour change, but there isnt good evidence that stress alone can do it. What is clear is how it works: Hair follicles gradually lose their pigmentation, which is made by a complex protein called melanin. Around the same time your body stops making melanin, your hair follicles also start producing less sebum, a naturally occurring oil that hydrates hair. The result is strands that can be drier and more wiry in texture.Heres what else I learned about growing out grey hair and how to keep it looking its best.Consider how to ditch the dyeThere are a few ways you can go grey, and it may depend on how much of it you have and what your tolerance is for this totally awkward phase of embracing it. (If you never dyed your hair in the first place, yay, you can skip this part.) You can quit colouring cold turkey. Thats the cheapest and easiest option. Youll have to live with the demarcation line where your coloured hair and your roots meet until your natural colour reaches your desired length (this can take years)or until you decide to chop off the dyed part and wear it in a pixie cut.Another way to go is grey blending, says Ruby Fernandes, a stylist and colourist who specializes in light shades at Sekt Hair Studio in Toronto. Grey blending involves adding highlights or lowlights to both your natural roots and your artificially coloured hair to either camouflage or accentuate your grey strands.You might also consider a more radical grey transformation, which involves a long day of having any artificial colour stripped out of your hair, bleaching everything but the roots and then applying a new colour that matches your natural shade of grey. Find a colourist who has expertise in blond and grey hues. They know how to get the highest level of lightener while keeping the integrity of the hair, as well as how to get the right tone of grey, says Fernandes.Quench your greysAs your grey hair is growing in, it may feel dry or bristly, but that doesnt mean its unhealthy. Grey hair is as healthy as any melanated hair, says Rene Beach, a dermatologist at DermAtelier in Toronto. It is just unfortunately associated with age and a lack of upkeep and glamour. But even that stigma is starting to disappear, thanks in no small part to a pandemic silver lining that has seen more women of all ages ditch the dye. To help deal with a change of hair texture, notes Beach, look for products that contain humectants and protein derivatives, which can help make grey strands softer, shinier and less prone to breakage. With drier hair, you can also get away with less frequent washing, adds Fernandes. Win-win.Deal with discolourationMany people notice that their grey hairespecially lighter shadescan also take on a yellowish tint. This can be caused by anything from minerals in water to heat damage to residue from hair products or even natural oils from the scalp, says Schwarcz. Protective measures include using a cleansing shampoo to remove any buildup or yellowish cast, using a heat protectant when styling and keeping your hair covered from the sun when UV exposure is at its highest.(Related: Should You Be Using Clarifying Shampoo?)Experiment with tonersA popular trick that helps get rid of brassy tones in grey hair is using a purple or blue shampoo. The way it works is simple: On a colour wheel, purple is opposite yellow and blue is opposite orange, so adding blue or purple pigments to your hair works to cancel out yellow or orange discoloration. Schwarcz and Fernandes agree that knowing which one will work best for your hair requires trial and error, but a good rule of thumb is that, as your hair starts to grey, purple shampoo is good for blondes and blue shampoo is better for brunettes.You can also try toning with a semi-permanent silver dye or gloss, at home or in the salon. Having your hair professionally clarified and toned every six months is still far less of a commitment than regular root touch-ups. Regardless of your hair colour, toned hair just feels fresher, brighter, says Fernandes. So does finding a cut that looks great on your face shape.Shop our picksHere are six silver-friendly products that clarify, tone, nourish and more.This clarifying shampoo helps lift product buildup, excess oil and mineral residue with a formula of apple cider vinegar and hair-smoothing keratin.Ouai Detox Shampoo, $39, sephora.caA light blend of olive oil and argan oil in this blow-dry cream helps smooth and protect hair from styling heat without weighing it down.Marc Anthony Nourishing Argan Oil of Morocco 3 Day Smoothing Cream, $14, shoppersdrugmart.caKim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopezs hair stylist, Chris Appleton, raves about this spray for shiny, sleek and glass-like strands.Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray Anti-Frizz Treatment, $14.50, sephora.caThis pigment-depositing shampoo and conditioner set helps neutralize brassy tones to get rid of unwanted yellow streaks while adding brightness to colour-treated and natural grey and white shades.Matrix Color Obsessed So Silver Duo, $38, matandmax.comEnvelop your hair in a hydrating mask that promises plumper and bouncier hair for 72 hours.LOral Paris Hyaluron Plump Moisture Wrapping Mask with Hyaluronic Acid, $8, walmart.caNext: Why You Should Tell Your Derm About Hair Loss

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6 Drugstore Vitamin C Serums That Are Actually Amazing

Alicia Cox Thomson — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 12:00:58 +0000

Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum for Normal Skin: No7 Radiance+ 15% Vitamin C Serum

This gel-based formula is fast-absorbing, with a mid-range concentration of vitamin C at 15 percent (most range from 10 to 20)meaning its good for those with skin that’s not overly sensitive. It boasts a light citrus smell, and it’s one of the more affordable options, making it an ideal pick for those just getting started.No7 Radiance+ 15% Vitamin C Serum, $29, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum for Dry Skin: Lise Watier Sublimessence High Brightening Vitamin C Serum

This Canadian company includes two homegrown ingredients in their 20 percent serumLabrador tea, a powerful antioxidant, and Boreal white pine extract, which helps to improve skin tone and reduce discoloration. Ferulic acid improves the efficacy of vitamin C while providing an extra dose of antioxidants. It’s safe for all skin types, including those with dry skin.Lise Watier Sublimessence High Brightening Vitamin C Serum, $88, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum for Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum

Vitamin C contains anti-inflammatory properties to soothe acne and balance oily skin, all while smoothing fine lines and restoring a glow. La Roche-Posays version is ideal for those with oily skin. It contains salicylic acid to exfoliate clogged pores and hyaluronic acid, because even oily skin needs to stay hydrated.La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum, $55, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum for Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

Three types of ceramidesimportant fats found in skin cells that help maintain its healthy outer barriercan be found in this gentle, yet powerful serum as well as hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to hydrate and protect sensitive skin. It helps skin feel softer and appear more radiant without irritationmaking it a great pick for newbies.CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, $31, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum in a Capsule: Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Vitamin C Serum

Capsules have some benefits over liquidyou break them open to get the right dose each time and the ingredients are individually sealed for maximum freshness and efficacy. These ones by Neutrogena are seaweed-derived and biodegradable. They contain 20 percent vitamin C for visible results in just one week.Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Vitamin C Serum, $42, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serum for Mature Skin

Formulated to harness every drop of natural benefits, this pure concentrate is made without water and is sealed in an airtight tube to prevent any reduction in potency due to exposure to light or air. It’s safe for sensitive skin, but powerful enough that users see visible results after only one week.LOreal Revitalift Triple Power LZR 10% Pure Vitamin C Concentrate, $41, shoppersdrugmart.caNext: 8 Drugstore Eye Creams for Every Skin Need

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Do Under-Eye Patches Work? We Asked a Dermatologist

Renée Reardin — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 12:00:43 +0000

Maybe youve seen under-eye patches all over your Instagram feed (thanks, Dieux). Or maybe they caught your eye at your local bookstore (yes, theyre even at Indigo). Or, maybe you spotted them on the woman sitting next to you onboard a redeye (that was me!). But one things for sure: Youve definitely seen them, and youve probably wondered if theres actually a good reason theyre everywhere right now.First, some background info: There are two kinds of under-eye patchesdisposable and reusable. Disposable ones are made out of materials like hydrogel or lyocell and are pre-soaked in skin care ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Reusable ones can also be made of hydrogel, or silicone, and are designed to be placed on top of an eye cream or serum of your choice to help it better absorb into the skin and therefore boost its efficacy. But no matter the type, most under-eye patches promise the same thing: to make you look a little self-indulgent for 15-20 minutes as they do their thing to diminish puffiness, brighten dark circles, smooth fine lines and make your eyes look like they did when you were a teen clocking 10-12 hours of sleep.Do they work? I only use them on overnight flights, and they help me look like I was able to sleep just fine scrunched in my seat in coach. But the effects dont last that longby the evening, the spell has been broken, and I get two undisguisable dark circles joining me for dinner. I use ones by French brand Klorane, which are hydrogel eye patches formulated with cornflower water, hyaluronic acid and seaweed extractand they have a decent fanbase. After I take them off my circles are gone and my skin is glowing, wrote one reviewer. My eyes almost felt more plump like they had some life zapped back into them, and they were so smooth and soft, wrote another.

The Perks

So, can under-eye patches really zap life back into your eyes? They provide a temporary benefit, like a face mask, says Rene Beach, a dermatologist in Toronto. For example, if youre looking for immediate moisture and a smoothing effect, eye patches that contain humectants like glycerin can deeply hydrate the area and thereby plump skin so fine lines are less noticeable, says Beach. That is to say, the patches arent actually diminishing fine lines permanentlytheyre diminishing the appearance of them, temporarily, for about a day. But, they work. And Beach says they can truly help brighten the under-eye area tooyoud just need to use ones that contain the right ingredients, such as niacinamide, azelaic acid, Kojic acid, and mushroom extract, and use them consistently for over three months.

The Options

Obviously, reusable ones are more environmentally friendly, but Beach says they require rigorous cleaning after every use or they may trigger skin woes like acne or irritations. If you choose reusable ones, youll need to pair them with an eye cream or serumBeach prefers the latter. I think serums generally absorb more easily and elegantly on average, she says.

The Risks

Like everything, there are a few risks involved with under-eye patches. For example, if there’s too much product residue left over in the eye area from the patches, it can get trapped in the superficial skin and cause milia, says Beach. Milia are tiny skin-coloured bumps that, while harmless, can be tricky to get rid of.Beach also suggests avoiding products that contain ingredients like fragrances and their derivatives (like limonene and linalool) because they dont offer a cosmetic benefit. While lovely to smell, they can cause irritation, she says. In general, if you experience itching, burning, redness, or another type of discomfort within hours of applying the patches, you may have contact dermatitis, so discontinue use immediately.

The DIY Version

Another option: Do the old-fashioned cucumber slices trickapply them to your eyes, and they can hydrate the skin. Or, apply ice packs to de-puff. Not a bad idea: Neither will cost you anything (surely you already have a cucumber in your fridge?), and theyre unlikely to cause irritation, says Beach.

The Top Picks

Prefer the store-bought variety? Then youll probably be looking for the best under-eye patches available now. So, here are the highest-rated, buzziest disposable ones available in Canada.Didn’t get enough sleep? Reach for these patches made with hyaluronic acid, which can help brighten and de-puff eyes to help it look like you got a full eight hours.Klorane Smoothing & Soothing Eye Patches With Organic Cornflower, $38, well.caVitamin C is the hero ingredient in these eye patches, making them a great pick if you want to lighten up dark circles. The patches also contain hydrating ingredients like aloe and cucumber to revitalize the under-eye area.Derma E Vitamin C Bright Eyes Hydro Gel Patches, $41, well.caIf crepey skin is a concern, these hydra-gel patches from Peter Thomas Roth can help. They contain collagen to help boost skin elasticity and firmness.Peter Thomas Roth FIRMx Collagen Face & Eye Hydra-Gel Patches, $65, sephora.comYou apply retinol to your facewhat about the eye area? These eye patches deliver a touch of retinol (just enough to make a difference without aggravating the delicate skin around the eye), resulting in skin that is smoother and firmer.Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Masks, $42, sephora.comIf dry skin around the eyes is the concern, try these patches by Lise Watier. They’re made with aloe to deeply moisturize skin, and also contain collagen to reduce the appearance of fine lines.Watier Bio Lift Eye Patch, $42, shoppersdrugmart.comEyes looking tired? These patches, which contain hydrating ingredients like niacinamide and glycerin, can hydrate skin and fill in fine lines, helping you look bright-eyed again. Although the patches are disposable, they’re biodegradable, making them a more sustainable option.Goopgenes Lift + Depuff Eye Masks, $165, goop.comNext: The Problem with Todays Buzzy No-Makeup Makeup Look

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Are Your Bath Products Bad for Your Vag?

Erin Pepler — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 12:00:50 +0000

In the early days of the pandemic, I was doing the same thing as many other women who were advised to stay home: taking long, frequent baths to hide from my family. These soaks were luxurious nightly escapes that usually involved a scented bath bomb, the kind that leaves your tub shimmering with glitter for days. It was the perfect way to relaxuntil I found myself with a UTI and the bad news that my beloved, sanity-saving bath routine was likely the cause.If youre experiencing any discomfort down there and are wondering if your bath products are to blame, heres what you need to know.

Are bath bombs and other bath products bad for your vagina?

Generally speaking, if youre using products made without harsh chemicals, and your baths arent too hot or too frequent, they should be safe.Jen Gunter, a Canadian OB-GYN who wrote The Vagina Bible, says you wont get a UTI or yeast infection from your favourite bath bubbles, but they could absolutely cause vulvar irritation, and that may be mistaken for a yeast infection, she says. This irritation may show up in the form of redness, itching or general discomfort.The solution? Choose products with natural ingredients. Bath products made with natural colourants and ingredients should not be irritating to most people, says Jennifer Blake, a clinical professor of obstetrics and biology at McMaster University in Hamilton. Some people with sensitive skin may notice irritation after using a specific product or ingredientif this is the case, you should simply discontinue use.However, spending hours in the tub can cause irritation no matter which products youre using, says Blake. A too-long, too-hot bath can upset the microbiome in your vagina and lead to dryness, she says, which in turn may cause thinning of the delicate vulvar tissue. This removes some of the natural protection your body has against infectionswhich is likely how I got my UTI. I now take shorter, slightly cooler baths and am able to use my favourite glittery bath bombs without paying for them later.

Should you only use bath products made of natural ingredients?

Bath products with natural ingredients like sodium bicarbonate and citric acid (commonly found in bath bombs) can still impact your vaginas pH level if you soak for longer than recommended, says Blake. This disruption in pH can make you more susceptible to an infection from common sources. For example, when bacteria that normally lives in the large intestine travels to the vagina after a bowel movement, it can cause a UTI (this is why women are advised to always wipe front to back). A vagina with a lower or higher pH isnt as capable of fighting off that bacteria to prevent a UTI from occurring. So, that hour-long soak in a hot bath may wash your troubles away but for your vagina, it can actually cause more harm than good. Stick to 15-20 minutes in the tubmost experts agree this wont mess with your pH.Gunter adds that while some bath products promote themselves as healthy for the vulva or vagina, there is no scientific evidence to back that up. Simply put, a bath bomb may be well-tolerated by one person and cause irritation in anotherbut its never going to make your vagina healthier.

Are some people more susceptible to vaginal health issues than others?

When youre in menopause or if youre breastfeeding, youre more likely to experience thinning tissue and dryness. This is due to a drop in estrogen levels, which means youre more vulnerable to infection, says Blake. But that doesnt mean you cant take a bathyou just need to be extra cautious by taking fewer, shorter and cooler soaks in the tub.Menopausal or not, pay attention to whats in your bath products and stop using anything that leads to discomfort. If youre one of those more sensitive people, youll know very quickly because youll have irritation, usually where the tissue is thinner, such as around the vulva, says Blake.

So, can I still have my nightly soak?

Despite these cautions, a bath still comes recommended by the pros. A good bath is a wonderful way of relaxing, and its one of those times when women can shut the door and enjoy a little bit of quiet time, says Blake. She recommends avoiding any discomfort by simply being aware of whats in your bath products, and avoiding too many chemicals.Gunter recommends monitoring your physical reactions to various products. It is really [about] trial and error, she says. But of course, if one bath product irritates you, let your vag recover before trying out a new one.

Blakes tips for the tub:

Rinse out your tub with the shower head before drawing a baththis will help get rid of any dirt or lingering cleaning products
Take shorter, less hot baths to avoid upsetting your microbiome or causing damage to your vulva
Look for natural ingredients (sodium bicarbonate and citric acid, for example) in your bath products and avoid harsh chemicals or ingredients youre unfamiliar with
If a bath product causes vaginal irritation, stop using itwhat irritates one person wont irritate another, so its best to keep track of the ingredients youre sensitive to
Be extra cautious if youre breastfeeding or in menopause, and avoid too-hot baths entirely if youre pregnant

Next: 6 Bath Products Thatll Help You Escape Reality and Relax

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Have Super Dry Skin? This Canadian Skincare Company Is Here to Help

Ado Nkemka — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 12:00:10 +0000

This story is part of Best Healths Preservation series, which spotlights wellness businesses and practices rooted in culture, community and history.Evelyne Nyairo was born in a rural village in Kisii, Kenya, to a clan called House of Wealthone whose legacy inspires her entrepreneurial spirit. At 16, Nyairo immigrated to Canada on her own, studied environmental sciences with a major in chemistry and biology, and eventually started her own engineering company. In 2012, during a business trip to the Republic of Chad, Nyairo noticed women making a special shea porridge, one that is served at weddings, funerals and other special occasions. Nyairo was intrigued by the ingredient and later, she learned about sheas beauty benefits.[Shea] is something that our grandmothers and great grandmothers, particularly in West Africa, used and continue to use, says Nyairo. Being in Chad and asking [for moisturizer], right away shea is what comes out. Its an identity, its an iconic ingredientwhen you think of African [ingredients] in the beauty industry, shea is number one.Back in Calgary, Nyairo began researching shea and was inspired to develop a socially conscious and environmentally friendly skin care line around it. She named the brand Ellie Bianca after her daughter and launched it in 2015. Today, Ellie Bianca has a roster of 34 products, and shea features prominently in most of themthe brands logo represents an open shea nut.The densely branched shea tree thrives in the dry climate of West Africas savanna belt and bears green fruit that are shaped like plums. Shea butter comes from the trees nut that is nestled within the fruit. It contains stearic, oleic and linoleic acidsmoisturizing fatty acids that are rapidly absorbed by the skinand vitamins A and E, which have antioxidant properties. Shea butter can also act as an antifungal and anti-inflammatory agent, and it promotes cell regeneration, among other skincare benefits.One of Nyairos favourite Ellie Bianca products is the hydrating Naked Face Oil, which can also be used as a cleanser and makeup remover. Another one of her picks, the recently launched Body Lotion, uses raw shea and is the perfect antidote to harsh hand sanitizer and lots of hand washingthe lotion moisturizes skin without making it greasy.An important pillar of the Ellie Bianca brand is supporting the well-being, agency and equitable treatment of women around the world through economic opportunities. The company offers scholarships to single mothers in Canada pursuing their education, and sources shea ethically from co-ops in Chad. Making shea in co-operatives brings women togetherits a therapeutic experience where they can share their stories. Theres that complexity around who we are as women, theres some smooth areas and some rough areas, but altogether we work to preserve something and I feel like thats what the shea fruit does, says Nyairo. It preserves that precious butter that is right in the middle.This story is part of Best HealthsPreservation series, which spotlights wellness businesses and practices rooted in culture, community and history. Read more from this series here:

Meet Sisters Sage, an Indigenous Wellness Brand Reclaiming Smudging

This Canadian Soap Brand is Rooted in Korean Bathhouse Culture

This Soap Brand Is Sharing the Healing Power of Inuit Tradition

Get more great stories delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for the Best Health Must-Reads newsletter.Subscribe here.

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One of the Most Popular Injectables Right Now Is Something You Probably Haven’t Even Heard of Yet

Renée Reardin — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Usually, its us Canadians lusting after something our US neighbours have, as we wait for it to be approved by Health Canada (take certain trendy sunscreens, for example). But now, we have something making Americans jealous: skin boosters, a dermatological cosmetic treatment that Canadian doctors (and in-the-know patients) are really excited about.Officially named small particle hyaluronic acid filler but colloquially called skin boosters, the treatment involves a trained professional injecting hyaluronic acid (HA) particles into the skin to smooth, plump and hydrate it. Sounds like dermal filler, right? Its not. With dermal fillers, large molecules of HA are injected underneath the skin to plump and lift the face. With skin boosters, microdroplets of HA are injected into the skin to plump, smooth and hydrate it.Approved by Health Canada in 2016, skin boosters have become a popular treatment for dermatologists to suggest to patients with concerns about skin texture, fine lines and dryness. Its one of the top injectables were using in my office, says Dr. Irina Oroz, a dermatologist in Saskatoon.Here, everything you need to know about skin boosters.

Skin Boosters vs. Skinboosters

There are three types of small particle HA filler (skin boosters) approved by Health Canada at this time. The most commonly used product is (conveniently) called Restylane Skinboosters(TM) by Galderma. Theres also Redensity 1 Beauty Booster by Clarion Medical, and Volite by Juvederm.

The Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

HA is a popular skincare ingredient for parched skin, since its molecules grab onto water, draw it into the skin and hold onto itand the same goes for when its injected. Skin boosters rejuvenate the skin by helping to replace the hyaluronic acid weve lost due to aging. It’s like an internal moisturizer, says Oroz. Skin becomes plumper, too. Plus, the HA used in skin boosters is an extracellular matrix, says Oroz, which means it not only hydrates skin but also stimulates new collagen, thereby generating smoother-looking skin.

The Procedure

There are two ways you can receive skin boosters. Your doctor may choose to use a classic syringe (like theyd use with dermal filler), in which a needle is used to create a port of entry in the skin, and a cannula, which has a dull end, is inserted to deposit the HA in the superficial layer of the skin. Alternatively, your doctor may use what Oroz calls the click system, which involves the same needle but with an extra functiona clickthat portions out a precise amount of HA in a grid-like pattern. A skilled practitioner can determine which option is best for you.

How It Differs From Filler

While they can both plump skin, the treatments differ significantly. Filler is a lot thicker and has a lifting capacityit’s meant to fill a hollow space and lift, says Oroz. Conversely, skin boosters dont lift, but hydrate and smooth skin. They deposit HA into the skin (instead of underneath it) to deliver deep hydration directly to it, she says.

Where Skin Boosters Can Be Used

At the moment, skin boosters have been tested to use on the lower half of the face, the neck area and hands, says Oroz. Theyre a perfect option for areas where filler is not recommended, like fine lines around the mouth (including smokers lines and crease lines) as well as necklace lines (the horizontal bands around the neck).While they helps prevent skin flakiness and increase its overall bounciness, skin boosters havent actually been approved for the upper half of the face yet. It’s really just a matter of the studies haven’t been done yet, says Oroz. But she expects them to be approved for the whole face soon, including around the eyes and between the brows.

How Skin Boosters Differ From Botox

Basically, any neuromodulator concentrates on the facial muscles, specifically, relaxing them to limit movement that causes wrinkles, says Oroz. Skin boosters concentrate on the skinsmoothing out the texture to fade static facial lines. But a trained practitioner can tell you the best treatment for what youre after.

The Best Candidates

Any adult looking for rejuvenation, hydration, a glow, can benefit from skin boosters, says Oroz, as well as anyone looking to improve the look of crepey skin, fine lines or signs of aging in hands.If volume loss is a main concern, a better option may be dermal fillers, says Oroz. But you absolutely can use both filler and skin boosters in one session as a combined treatment.Pregnant or breastfeeding people shouldnt get skin boosters, and anyone with a bleeding disorder, tumour or infections should also avoid this treatment. But its relatively safe, says Oroz.

How Long It Lasts

Typically, three treatments are performed two to four weeks apart. Although results are immediate, Oroz says skin will look its best three to six months after the treatment has helped stimulate collagen production. Results last a year or longer.

The Cost

Just like Botox and filler, the cost per treatment depends on where you go. Oroz says its typically about $600-$750 per treatment/syringe, which would work out to $1,800-$2,250 for the recommended series of three. If skin is super dry and crepey, two syringes may be needed. In that case, clinics may have a special price so youre not paying double.

Side Effects

The side effects of skin boosters are similar to what youd see with traditional filler, like bruising and redness, says Oroz, and there may be some slight pain. Obviously, you want an experienced injector for the job, as you would with any type of injection.

When Itll Be Available in the US

Skin boosters are currently approved and available in Canada and in countries all over Europe. It will probably be approved pretty quickly in the US, says Oroz. My American colleagues are very excited to get their hands on it.Next: What to Know About Xeomenthe “Naked” Botox

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8 Drugstore Eye Creams for Every Skin Need

Alicia Cox Thomson — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 12:00:42 +0000

Best Drugstore Eye Cream to Reduce Puffiness:CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

Skin contains fatty acids called ceramides, which help keep it smooth, but we lose them as we age. Luckily, a cream that contains synthetic ceramides can help create that smooth surface. CeraVes Eye Repair cream contains three types of ceramides, as well as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for peak hydration. What’s more: It also contains a marine and botanical complex, which helps reduce puffiness and dark circles, brightening the eye area over time.CeraVe Eye Repair Cream, $30, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Eye Cream for Dry Skin:Cetaphil Optimal Hydration Eye Serum

Dry skin can accelerate the signs of aging, especially around the eyes. Cetaphils eye serum is made with hyaluronic acid, to deliver deep hydration, and is infused with blue daisy plant, which releases moisture to keep skin hydrated for up to 48 hours. Its great for tired eyes and sensitive skinit combats skin itchiness, roughness and redness.Cetaphil Optimal Hydration Eye Serum, $26, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Eye Cream with Retinol:RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream

Retinol is beloved by derms for its ability to stimulate the production of collagen and elastins found in the skins top layer and increase cell growth, which effectively reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation changes like brown spots or dark circles. RoCs award-winning retinol eye cream is proven to make the eye area look 10 years youngera bold claim backed up by testing and glowing reviews. Just be careful when adding retinol to your skincare routine. Read the packaging, start slow, and be sure to wear sunscreen.RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream, $40, well.ca

Best Drugstore Eye Cream to Reduce Dark Circles:La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eyes

Dark circles can appear brown-, grey- or blue-tinged depending on your skin tone, caused by tiredness, stress, age and genetics. La Roche-Posays popular Pigmentclar formula is made with light-reflecting pigments to visibly brighten the area, PhE-resorcinol to improve skins elasticity and caffeine to reduce puffiness. Plus, its cooling wand applicator soothes skin and helps you look and feel more awake.La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eyes, $51, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Eye Cream for Lifting and Tightening:LOreal Paris Revitalift Eye Cream

You can’t go wrong with Canadas number one eye cream, L’Oral Pari’s Rebvitalift. Its soft, rich formula contains “pro-retinol,” a gentler type of retinol that can help reduce fine lines, as well as an herb called centella asiatica, which is a powerful antioxidant that hydrates, combats puffiness and tightens loose skin.LOreal Paris Revitalift Eye Cream, $28, walmart.ca

Best Drugstore Eye Cream for Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair

Neutrogena is a leader in retinol expertise with over 20 patents and studiesso it’s no surprise the brand’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair retinol eye cream is a bestseller. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles and contains hyaluronic acid to boost hydration.Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair, $41, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Drugstore Eye Cream for Sensitive Skin: Burts Bees Sensitive Eye Cream

Burts Bees sensitive eye cream is 98.9 percent natural, containing ingredients that hydrate and soothe skin like cotton and rice extract, coconut and sunflower seed oils, aloe and shea butter. Its clinically proven to reduce puffiness without causing irritation and is approved by dermatologists.Burts Bees Sensitive Eye Cream, $25, well.ca

Best All-Around Drugstore Eye Cream: Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Anti-Aging Transforming Eye Cream

Our pick for the best drugstore eye cream is Olay’s Total Effects, which is packed with ingredients to tackle many signs of aging. It nourishes skin to reduce puffiness, wrinkles and dark circles while tightening pores and firming skin around the eyes. Its oil-free, dermatologist-tested and good for all skin types.Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Anti-Aging Transforming Eye Cream, $35, shoppersdrugmart.caNext: 8 Drugstore Moisturizers for Every Skin Type

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The Truth About Petrolatum: Does It Belong in Your Skin Care Products?

Best Health — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 12:00:40 +0000

When my two toddlers had itchy rashes on their chests, my doctor diagnosed eczema. The cure: no more bubble baths, and plenty of thick, perfume-free moisturizer. “The best thing you can use is good old Vaseline,” she said.Doctors like mine have been recommending petroleum jelly (also called petrolatum) for more than 100 years. In the 1850s, chemist Robert Chesebrough started the process of distilling and cleaning the thick gel found on oil wells. By 1870, Vaseline was being sold in the United States.In industry, petrolatum acts as a lubricant for machinery. Today, we also use it to relieve diaper rash, heal raw noses and soothe chapped lips. (Some people also use it as a sexual lubricant, but it weakens latex condoms.) It’s also an ingredient in a variety of moisturizing products. The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a U.S. non-profit organization that does environmental and safety studies, says there’s petrolatum in one out of every 14 cosmetic products on the market, including 15 percent of lipsticks and 40 percent of baby lotions and oils. Plus, it’s used as an active ingredient for healing cuts and burns.So why are a host of new cosmetic productsmany of them organic or naturalpromoting themselves as “petrolatum free”? It raises a host of questions: Is petrolatum safe? Should we only be buying products that are petrolatum-free?

Is petrolatum safe?

Health Canada considers petrolatum non-toxic. As for the Canadian Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association (CCTFA), a trade organization that consults with the government on ingredients, its stand is that “it’s pretty much as universally safe as any substance could possibly be,” says spokesperson Mike Patton. However, the EWG gives it a “moderate hazard” safety rating and says cosmetics that use petrolatum need more study for safety.Why? The EWG saysand governments and the CCTFA acknowledgethere is a risk of contamination from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), cancer-causing chemicals found in crude oil and its by-products. While no studies have ever shown a direct link between petrolatum and cancer, the European Union put numerous grades of petrolatum on a list of dangerous substances. Only highly refined petrolatum can be used in cosmetics there. It’s for these reasons that the David Suzuki Foundation includes petrolatum on its Dirty Dozen list of cosmetic ingredients. But how much do you need to worry?

Petrolatum use in Canada

Petrolatum used in cosmetic and personal care products sold in Canada is also a highly refined grade and must meet all of the standards set by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), including limits for PAHs. Petrolatum used as an active ingredient in over-the-counter drugs goes through even stricter regulatory control.Is there a chance toxins could be missed during processing and testing? Companies that produce petrolatum products say no. “Our personal care products are tested and meet all of the safety and regulatory requirements as set by Health Canada,” says Paul Hughes, technical manager for Unilever Canada, maker of Vaseline. “Some people are creating fear among consumers by telling only part of the story.”

Does petrolatum heal skin?

While some beauty companies are promoting petrolatum alternatives, other manufacturers swear by its ability to moisturize and heal. Petrolatum seals off the skin from water and air, and “it allows the skin to heal itself,” says Calgary pharmacist Skip Gibson. He’s vice-president of sales and marketing for George’s Special Dry Skin Cream, a petroleum jelly-based cream that he helped create.”Petroleum jelly is the most effective moisturizer available,” says Vancouver dermatologist Dr. Richard Thomas. “The reduction in water loss makes it easier for the epidermis to continue normal function.”Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, a Toronto-based dermatologist and skin allergy expert agrees with the efficacy of petroleum jelly. In her 2018 book, Beyond Soap, she writes: “I’ve seen studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of everything from plain old Vaseline to sunflower oil.” She includes a list of recommended moisturizers for babies and children, which includes, in addition to Vaseline Petroleum Jelly and sunflower oil, suggestions like Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, and more.But there is a potential downside to the effectiveness of petroleum jelly. A study that was published in Pediatrics in 2000 found that extremely-low-birth-weight infants treated with petroleum jelly were more likely to develop systemic candidiasis; it created a warm, moist place for fungi to grow. “Sometimes you want the skin to breathe more,” says Celeste Lutrario, vice president of research and development for Burt’s Bees, which does not use petrolatum in its products. She says petrolatum is an occlusive barrier, locking in moisturebut it does not allow moisture to be absorbed from the atmosphere. For example, lip balms with petrolatum and other petrochemicals can be less moisturizing than those with emollients that enable moisture exchange, contends Lutrario.

Is there an environmental impact?

Petrolatum comes from crude oil, and as such is not a renewable resource. Of course, the volume of the ingredients in one jar of petroleum jelly or a bottle of body moisturizer doesn’t come close to that used to fuel cars or run factories. Still, Health Canada is still investigating the environmental impact of petrolatum in cosmetics.Concern for our planet and its resources is another reason why some companies are using oils from coconuts, sunflowers and olives in the formulation of their products. But these oils have an environmental footprint, too: They come from farmland, potentially displacing food crops.Alternatives to petrolatum in cosmetics are more expensive and trickier to formulate. Right now, petrolatum is cheap, plentiful and generally safe, and it mixes up easily in the lab to create the products we use every dayit’s not going anywhere soon.Next: Why You Might Want to Stop Using Beauty Products With Talc

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The Problem with Today’s Buzzy No-Makeup Makeup Look

Renée Reardin — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:00:28 +0000

Back in 6,000 B.C., Cleopatra helped establish makeup as a signal of wealth. In the 1920s, cosmetics brands used advertisements to encourage women to deem makeup a necessity. But a hundred years later, wearing as little makeup as possible has become a status symbol.The idea behind this trend is to wear just enough makeup to look like the naturally best version of yourselfand create the look in just a few minutes. There are almost 100 million views of TikTok makeup tutorials tagged with variations of Five-Minute Face, each one touting minor spins on the same message: You dont need a lengthy makeup routine or dozens of productsall you need is a handful to look this fresh-faced!Cosmetic companies like the new-ish makeup brand Merit have responded to this demand with a Five-Minute Morning collection. The kit includes seven core products, the same ones that can be found in most Five-Minute Face kits by other brands, including a concealer, brow gel, mascara and a lip tint. The products were created to emphasize your assets, not hide who you are. Get compliments on your skin, not your makeup, reads the marketing copy.Although mastering the look may seem effortless, its anything but: Most of the women on social media boasting about wearing only a few makeup products dont reveal the full picturespecifically, the considerable time and resources theyve poured into the treatments to achieve it.Todays five-minute faceas modelled by beauty influencers, editors and entrepreneursis predicated on the behind-the-scenes beauty work of skin care products, cosmetic procedures and plastic surgeries, argued journalist Jessica DeFino in How the 5-Minute Face Became the $5,000 Face, which she published on Substack last May. These days, even injectable procedures like Botox and Juvderm are marketed as self-care. Minimal makeup, then, is maximal everything else. Its more masquerading as less.Pricey dermatologist visits make the Five-Minute Face possible: Laser treatments lighten dark spots, so only a touch of concealer is needed to achieve a clear complexion. Botox lifts the brows, so theyre perfectly shaped long before an eyebrow pencil even approaches them. Lip filler plumps the pout before the lightest swipe of tinted lip oil completes the look. Like Instagram photos that have been doctored by skin-smoothing filters, this sleight-of-hand can be damaging to anyones self-confidence.It doesnt do society any good when people arent accurately portraying everything that has gone into getting a look, says Catherine Sabiston, a professor at the University of Toronto who specializes in body image, mental health and physical activity. Plus, she says, most of the people displayed are already perpetuating the idealized standards of attractiveness, meaning theyre youthful, they have symmetrical features and theyre predominantly white.Case in point: This fall, Melisa Raouf, a 20-year-old contestant in the 2022 Miss England beauty pageant, made headlines for being the first makeup-free participant in the competitions 94 years. She told the Washington Post she wanted to challenge unrealistic beauty standards. That’s admirable, but Raouf already has the advantages of youth and seemingly flawless skin, so how much is she really pushing back?Sabiston is passionate about freeing us from the pressure to have a specific face, so we can genuinely appreciate our differences. If we can challenge those stereotypes, she says, well see little shifts in what is considered to be attractive.Of course, that doesn’t mean you should feel obligated to stop wearing makeup if you don’t want to. But instead of aiming for the Five-Minute Face, a more attainable option is to use a light hand with makeup to embrace your uniqueness. Its really nice to see actual features, says Simone Otis, a Toronto-based makeup artist. You could play up the features you have by providing a little extra glow and a little extra definitionno dermatological procedures required. This look “is very democratic, she says. Everyone could do it.Otis likes starting with a tinted moisturizer or serum, as it offers sheer coverage that can help you look a bit groomed and polished and feel your best, she says. I love the idea of a product that has a bit of colour and that will give you warmth, plus has all those good ingredients that can help skin.Look for tinted moisturizers or serums with beneficial ingredients, says Otis, such as sunscreen, hyaluronic acid (which can boost skins hydration), and vitamin C (which can help brighten skin tone over time). These products will give you some coverage without fully concealing spots or blemishes. And then if you’d like, add whatever else you’d likebrush, brow pencil, tinted lip balm.Otis believes were headed in a promising direction. Companies like 19/99 Beauty, for which Otis works as a makeup artist, feature models with real skin, meaning fine lines and wrinkles. What’s more, there are influencers who call themselves acne-positive and share photos of their unfiltered, uncovered blemished skin. And, at the Khaite show during New York Fashion Week in September, models were sent down the runway with their dark circles intentionally unconcealed. Its as if the brand is saying theres nothing wrong with dark circles and, actually, theres almost a mysterious beauty to them, says Otis.Does that mean you should stop concealing your dark circles? Not if you dont want to. But its certainly nice to see this shift in the beauty world.Our favourite base for a no-makeup makeup look is one of the buzziest products on store shelves today, tinted serum. It offers a sheerer, more natural look than a tinted moisturizer and is typically made with ingredients that are beneficial to skin. Here are our top five picks:This clean beauty pick by celebrity makeup artist Gucci Westman comes in 20 shades and can help boost hydration, even out skin texture and promote firmness.Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Complexion Drops, $68 USD, sephora.comAvailable in four shades, this drugstore tinted serum is formulated with hyaluronic acid to keep skin hydrated and looking radiant.True Match Nude Hyaluronic Tinted Serum, $27, shoppersdrugmart.caSqualane and hyaluronic acid are the star ingredients in this new tinted serum, which keeps skin from drying out while giving it a little warmth through 10 different shades.Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint with Hyaluronic Acid + Squalane, $55, sephora.comFor a tinted serum that provides light coverage and a natural-looking finish, try this squalene-rich option from Rose Inc, founded by model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. It comes in 14 shades.Rose Inc Skin Enhance Luminous Skin Tint Serum Foundation, $65, sephora.comAvailable in 30 shades, this pick provides light and dewy coverage that leaves skin glowing without any harmful chemicals. Its formulated with SPF 40 to offer extra protection against the sun.ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation, $62, sephora.comNext: The Best Skin Care Routine for Your Age, According to Dermatologists

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7 Grippy Boots That’ll Help Prevent Slips and Slides This Winter

Ariel Brewster — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 12:00:36 +0000

Best Grip Boots for Snowy Adventures

This boot from Baffins Ease collection is lightweight, making it easy to pack, and adds colour to an outfit (it comes in slate, bright red, indigo, an electric blue, or a sangria purple). Its also ideal for deeper snow drifts and blizzardy daysBaffins proprietary anti-slip technology includes a Polar Rubber heel and forefoot that maximizes grip and wont wear down too quickly.Baffin Light Womens Boot, $175, baffin.com

Best Grip Boots for City Life

The Joan boot is a great everyday option that works for city streets, dog walks, errands and almost any outfit. Yet, it doesnt compromise on waterproofing, insulation or gripcheck out the outsole, with high-traction rubber (in red) down the centre of the boot.Sorel Explorer II Joan Boot, $195, sorelfootwear.ca

Best Grip Boots for Winter Walks

All of the ICEFX boots from WindRiver, a Marks brand, are tested at a bunch of different sloped angles, and on actual ice, at UHNs KITE Winter Lab. (Check out their winter boot snowflake ratings at RateMyTreads.com.) We tried the IceQueens in taupe, which are toasty warm and super lightweight to wear. The non-slip technologya sole withGreen Diamond Grip, which is synthetic bits of quartz embedded into the rubberreally does work to keep you from sliding.Ice Queen IceFX T-Max Insulated Waterproof Leather Winter Boots, $190, marks.com

Best Grip Boots for Icy Sidewalks

This Montreal-based company has been making boots for Canadian winters since 1963. The Huila might look like a fashion boot, but the puffy nylon upper is comfort-rated for minus-30 weather. Plus, the retractable ice gripsteeny metal cleatson the soles can be folded in or out, whether youre stepping onto icy streets or heading inside a store. (Trust us: This is way easierand more stylishthan adding Yaktrax to your old winter boots!).Pajar Huila Boot With ice Grippers, $300, pajar.com

Best Grip Boots for Winter Sports

These durable but lightweight waterproof boots are best for more extreme winter adventures, with T-Max insulation to keep you warm in minus 40 temps, and the same lab-tested ICEFX traction technology other Marks products are known for.Helly Hansen Bivy II IceFX Waterproof T-Max Heat Winter Boots, $250, marks.com

Best Grip Boots for Winter Hiking

While Merrell may be better known for their hiking gear, the soles of this winter boot are designed with what they call Vibram MegaGrip, a non-slip technology that comes in handy during Canadian winters, whether youre commuting to work or going for a hike.Merrell Ontario Tall Polar Waterproof, $240, merrell.com

Best Grip Boots for Weekend Escapes

Columbia calls this style city to cabin, with breathable waterproofing, a fleece collar and Omni-Heat lining to keep your feet warm and protected from rain, sleet or snow. It also boasts Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber on the soles to prevent you from taking any tumbles.Columbia Womens Moritzia Boot, $170, columbiasportswear.caNext: 8 Essentials to Keep You Warm and Dry This Winter

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Celebrities Love This At-Home LED Face Mask, So I Tried It Out

Renée Reardin — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 12:00:11 +0000

For three minutes every evening, I lie on my couch with a Jason-esque mask placed over my just-cleansed skin while red and blue lights shine out of it and, allegedly, work their magic to give my skin the appearance of a line-free, blemish-free babys bottom. This is the latest innovation from Dr. Dennis Gross, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatological surgeon well known for his at-home peels). It’s the SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, which is an LED mask that uses red light to boost collagen and reduce fine lines, and blue light to kill bacteria to help heal and prevent future breakouts and redness.Im hardly the only one spending a few minutes a day this way. Celebrities like Paris Hilton and January Jones are fans of LED light therapy masks (with Jones opting for a substantially pricier version from Desse). As are top aestheticians Sofie Pavitt and Melanie Grant (whos also partial to the Desse mask, as well as the even more expensive Dermalux mask). So how much can this thing actually improve my skin?Light-emitting diode, or LED, masks may stimulate collagen and elastin production, reduce skin inflammation and help kill bacteria contributing to acne, says Monica Li, a board-certified dermatologist at City Medical Aesthetics Center in Vancouver. But thats depending on their wavelength.While at-home tools like Dr. Dennis Grosss arent as powerful as professional-grade treatments (for safety reasons), they can be effective alternatives for some skin types with minor concerns, says Li, due to the frequency they can be used. For those who cant affordfinancially or for a lack of time to visit the derms office a few times a month for a professional-grade treatment, an at-home version could be a more feasible option.Lis words to the wise: LED can be safe for everyone, as long as the exact package instructions, maintenance care and warnings are followed. She also suggests wearing medical-grade glasses or goggles when undergoing any LED treatment, as it can cause irreversible eye damage. Furthermore, for those with darker skin tones, Li recommends caution: There is a possible risk of unwanted dyspigmentation due to skin inflammation.(Related: How to Give Yourself a Spa-Worthy At-Home Facial)Im supposed to start seeing results in two weeks. After one, I dont notice a differencebut its not exactly the masks fault. Stress and hormones have caused me to be the current landlord of some indestructible blemishes that need time to heal. Although the masks blue light mode is intended to treat acne and prevent breakouts, it does so by killing bacteria that causes some forms of acnebut apparently not my kind. For these squatters, Ive added meditation to my beauty routine.After week two, my blemishes are finally starting to heal, and I havent had any new breakouts. Although I wouldnt say my skin looks any better than it did before I started using the mask, its quick and easy enough to use, so Im still game to keep this up until I (hopefully) start seeing results.Im beginning to believe my skin looks a little more even and smoother. I cant see a significant improvement in my breakouts or fine linesbut Ive received a boost of encouragement to continue using the mask every day. On the July 14 episode of the Breaking Beauty podcast, co-host Jill Dunn chatted with beauty blogger Lauryn Evarts Bosstick about the Dr. Dennis Gross LED light therapy mask and both agreed its worth the investmentfinancially and time-wise. Bosstick said with consistent use, the mask gave her a more even skin tone and soothed her psoriasis and Dunn said the mask improved her facial redness and acne.By week four, Ive picked up a couple of tips that also make me hopeful enough to continue LED-ing. First, Sofie Pavitt suggests applying a hydrating serum to the skin before wearing the mask, since LED is super drying. (I tried this, and it really helped.) And second, it might take more than four weeks to see resultsDr. Gross completed a clinical trial that found 97 percent of participants saw an improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, and skin tone after ten weeks of daily use.What happens to my skin after 10 weeks? Unfortunately, nothing noteworthy.It’s now been over a year since I wrote this pieceand about a year since I’ve used the mask. It just didn’t do enough for my skin to keep it in my everyday routine, though it was a fun ritual while it lasted. Onto the next skin care trend…Next: What to Know Before Booking a Laser Treatment for Your Face

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Is Hard Water Ruining My Hair?

Rebecca Gao — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 12:00:26 +0000

Have you ever visited a new city and found your hair to feel a little flat, lacklustre or just off? Perhaps after some extensive Googling you learned it may be because youre washing your hair with hard water. This type of water contains a high level of minerals compared to other water, and some people claim it can cause dry, limp locks.Is that true? Is hard water really bad for your hair? To find out, we spoke to Joe Schwarcz, a professor of chemistry at McGill University and director of McGills Office for Science and Society.

What is hard water?

When we talk about hard water versus soft water, were not describing the waters density or feel. Waters hardness refers to its concentration of minerals. Pure water, like distilled water, is just H2Otheres nothing else in it, says Schwarcz. In contrast, water thats been in contact with the ground, such as water that comes out of our taps and showers, contains dissolved calcium and magnesium compounds.

Is that bad?

It could beat least when it evaporates: Hard water leaves behind some minerals that react with soap (specifically, glycerin and fatty acids that’s in all soap) and forms a precipitate, says Schwarcz. Precipitates are better known as soap scumthat gross white film that develops in tubs, sinks and showers.Soap scum is actually why detergents were invented. Detergents (an umbrella term that includes shampoo and laundry detergent), are specifically made with surfactants instead of glycerin and fatty acids because those ingredients dont react with the minerals in water and therefore dont leave behind soap scum.

Okay, does that mean hard water is bad for my hair?

No, especially if you wash your hair with shampoo. Shampoos were developed to counteract the reaction between minerals in the water, says Schwarcz. And, even if you wash your hair with hard water without shampoo, you will get a precipitate thats going to stay behind on your hair, but it’s not going to have any effect on the growth of your hair, he says. However, its possible hard water will make hair less shiny and maybe a bit weighed down because of the minerals left behind.

Are products that claim to counter the effects of hard water useful?

Some products, like clarifying shampoos and water softeners, claim to help tackle the effects of soap scum. But Schwarcz says, its just a marketing technique. As long as you use shampoo, there’s no need for special products.Next: Why You Should Tell Your Derm About Hair Loss

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The 8 Best Drugstore Lipsticks

Alicia Cox Thomson — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:00:26 +0000

Best Overall:Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick

Revlons best-selling formula is infused with avocado oil and vitamin E for a buttery-soft feel that wont dry out lips. It has the most impressive range of colours, with 91 (!!) shades to choose from.Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick, $12, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Hydrating:LOral Paris Colour Riche Lip Colour

Have dry lips? You’ll want to choose a hydrating lipstick like LOral’s Colour Riche, which is made with argan oil and vitamin E for intense hydration. Its creamy and light, with medium pigmentation, and comes in 60 shades.LOral Paris Colour Riche Lip Colour, $13, londondrugs.com

Best Value: Wet n Wild Silk Finish Lipstick

You cannot find a better bargain than this creamy, hydrating lipstick. The formula contains both aloe vera and macadamia nut oils, as well as vitamins A and E. It goes on smooth and offers a solid choice of colours (23 to be exact) for all skin tones.Wet n Wild Satin Lipstick, $2.50, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Matte Finish: NYX Professional Makeup Suede Matte Lipstick

This vegan lipstick by NYX was made to match the brand’s best-selling Suede Matte lip liner, and its just as popular. It feels smooth and silky out of the tube, but the finish is powdery without being dry or cakey. What’s more: The colour seriously lastsmany reviewers said they didnt need to re-apply it for hours. Comes in 24 shades.NYX Professional Makeup Suede Matte Lipstick, $11, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best Long Wear:Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink

If you prefer not to reapply your lipstick and want a shade that sticks, this best-seller by Maybelline tops lists for its long-lasting, deep pigment that doesnt budge or fade for up to 16 hours. The arrow-shaped applicator places colour exactly where you want it, with no feathering or smugding. It goes on liquid and dries matte, and comes in 40 shades.Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink, $12, walmart.ca

Best Liquid Shine:Wet n Wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Hi-Shine Lipstick

This lipstick goes on with a high shine thats long-lasting. Plus, it contains vitamin E and plant-based oils and butters like argan and shea to keep lips hydrated. Its highly pigmented with a mirror-like gloss finish, but not too sticky, perfect for a glamorous look that will last all night. Comes in 13 shades.Wet n Wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Hi-Shine Lipstick, $8, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best for Dark Skin Tones:Maybelline Color Sensational Made For All

The pigments in Maybelline’s Made For All line are tested on 50 skintones to ensure they flatter a wider variety of peopleimpressive! Its a game-changer for those with dark skin tones who dont have as many options in the drugstore market. Comes in seven shades in a satin or matte finish.Maybelline Color Sensational Made For All, $13, shoppersdrugmart.ca

Best for Aging Skin: LOral Paris Age Perfect Hydrating Core Lipstick

As we get older, our lips become dryer and fine lines form, which can make lipstick look uneven or cause feathering. LOreals Age Perfect formula comes with a moisturising base infused with nourishing ingredients, leaving lips feeling full and supple and looking silky smooth. Comes in 10 shades.LOral Paris Age Perfect Hydrating Core Lipstick, $17, shoppersdrugmart.caNext: The 10 Best Drugstore Concealers for Every Skin Need

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