Vellus Hair Removal (Dermaplaning)

There's a buzz going on about why "shaving" or Dermaplaning is so great for the skin.  Well, truth be told with summer in full bloom, peach fuzz or vellus hair is more noticeable in the bright light and this is a gentle, quick and effective way to get rid of that unwanted fur and exfoliate at the same time.  The areas of most concern are the sides of face and upper lip.  Men are at a huge advantage because when they shave they're actually exfoliating too which helps with cell rejuvenation which helps with firming the skin-yeah!

Using a sterile blade the skin is feathered very lightly and is scraping off the dead epidermal (top) layer and removing the hair as well.  It's perfect for those using retinols or other topicals/orals that can sensitize the skin.  Waxing is not appropriate for retinol users and sensitive skin. This procedure allows the skin to be super smooth which helps products reach deeper into the skin and creams/makeup sit better on top of the skin.  The hair grows back at the same rate and the same texture as before the treatment.  The myth of hair growing back thicker and darker is simply that, a myth.
It's an ideal treatment for pregnant/lactating moms too as there are no chemicals involved.  I've had multiple treatments and I really love the two-for-one result with a smoother texture skin and an epidermal exfoliation as well.  For those wanting to kick it up a notch, you can add a professional peel after the dermaplane.  

In between appointments, you can get the job done safely at home with a Tinkle Brow Shaper.  You won't get as close of a shave but it really makes a difference and it's very easy to use.  You can Youtube how to use one but once you get the hang of it, you might get addicted!  It's an economical way to go too.

Micellar Water

The Micellar water craze:

Micelles are tiny round cleansing molecules that have a magnetic type action to sweep away surface dirt, impurities and makeup without needing to rinse with water.  Miceller water can be used as a quick multi-purpose cleanser if you don't have time to do your normal cleansing routine (new moms), late late nights, when there's no running water (camping) or after a workout.  It doesn't leave a residue and can be used with a cotton pad or a press/release action with your hands.
I wouldn't recommend that you switch out your normal cleansing routine altogether but this is a way to get the job done and not feel guilty for sleeping with your makeup on.  It'd be a great pre-cleanse because of the fact that it gently and efficiently removes the makeup without leaving any film.
It's a helpful go-to for makeup artists when we need to re-do an area because it feels refreshing, not heavy.
Caudalie has a grape seed infused micellar water that is very reasonable at $28. for 6.7 ounces and it will last approx 3 months if used daily.  For any of you product junkies, this is a fun, hip product that won't break the bank!

Men and Facials

It's true.  Men need facials just as much as women and here are a few reasons why:

~ Relaxation and cranial surrendering
 
~ Exfoliation, especially on the areas where they do not shave

~Any necessary grooming of unwanted hair on the eyebrows, ears, nose

~Gentle extractions of comedones as men are usually more sensitive (yes, it's true)

~Massage, especially around the eye area

~Education on simple yet effective ways to maintain healthy, firm and protected skin

~Make an appointment to see a Dermatologist for a full body skin check.  Men are at high risk because they don't like to wear an SPF.

Cheers to all of the kind and courageous men in the world, you matter!

What the Hydroquinone?

Hydroquinone lightens skin pigmentation (melasma) by inhibiting the production of melanin.  Melanin is what gives our skin color.  In lower percentages (less than 4%) hydroquinone is safe to break up the melanocytes and spread them around thus giving a less "patchy" appearance.  Depending on how deep the pigment is or how long it's been on the skin, typically the harder it is to break up those melanocytes.  The controversy is really over the higher percentages(10% and above)having the ability to stop melanin production all together thus making the skin more vulnerable to sun burn and skin damage.  Melanin protects our skin from burning so we do need it in our skin.  Genetics determines how much melanin we have in our skin.
After being a low percentage hydroquinone user (2%) for the last 15 years, I've come to enjoy the lightening effect it has on my skin and I recommend it for anyone with serious melasma patches.  Some common names for melasma are: hyper-pigmentation, pregnancy mask and age spots.  I don't recommend using it day and night or even every single day.  I recommend using it every 3rd night and spreading it over the entire patch and beyond the borders by a couple millimeters.  If you spot treat with a hydroquinone product, your patch can become hypo-pigmented and cause a "halo" looking ring in the middle of the patch.  Not so desirable.  Just remember not to spot treat with your product and your skin will be fine.  Always use a full spectrum sun protection moisturizer daily, especially when using a hydroquinone product.  Interestingly,  new research does show that hydroquinone has antioxidant properties which makes sense because it inhibits free radical damage due to environmental factors.  It's important to be routine with application until the 1 ounce bottle is finished.  Email questions to: shelley@shelleyskin.com
Good luck!

Caudalie Beauty Elixir

As a friend of mine says, it's her "anti-depression in a bottle".  This amazing refreshing spray is loaded with grape extracts, orange blossom, organic balm mint and Rosemary.  Just one spray and you feel alive and it looks dewy and bright.  You really don't need much because it's a potent blend and is truly stimulating on contact.  I love to use after cleansing my face in the morning as well as throughout the day over makeup.  If you need a pick me up in the middle of the day, just spritz and smile!  Truly one of Caudalie's coveted products!!

C O Bigelow Mentha Lip Shine Cinnamint

Yes, I'm a sucker for all products for the lips!  This is a 100% natural mint lip shine that claims to freshen your breath too....?  Sounds like a bonus to me.  There's a .1% cinnamon oil that feels like it's plumping with out the Lip Venom burn, remember that product?
I use this as a lip color and treatment during the day.  It's got an easy applicator tip and gives a slight burst of color.  Light plum.  I put it just over the lip line to help stimulate the upper lip and prevent the vertical lines.
An inexpensive, dewy treat and it feels like it's doing something-check it out.

Here's to an amazing New Year!!!!!

Skin Ceuticals C E Ferulic Serum

A super antioxidant combination!  This serum is a splurge but it's really powerful.  It works to help brighten  environmental aging and boosts collagen production.  It also has a UV protectant and should be used during the day.
I use this daily under my moisturizer with SPF.  I put about 4-5 drops in hand and push it in to my skin, including face, neck and chest.  It goes on with a slight tingle, which is normal and it absorbs instantly.  I follow with my SPF moisturizer right after and it does not get clumpy or tacky.
This is so easy to use and a huge favorite for many women over the age of 25.  Because I use a Retin-a some evenings, this serum helps to balance out my dehydration.  Also a safe choice for new moms with the pregnancy mask or pigmentation areas.
There's a reason why Allure Magazine made this one of their favorite picks.  It's super concentrated which makes it more effective and friendly with most skin conditions/types.  I don't recommend on active acne.
I'm glad I splurged with this one.
WYJINW?