Barefaced
by auria
Notes on change, skin, and the journey to your truest self.
by auria
Notes on change, skin, and the journey to your truest self.
The allure of “natural” skincare products is undeniable. Many believe that products labeled as natural are inherently safer, more effective, and gentler on the skin. However, the reality is far more nuanced. It's crucial to understand that the term "natural" isn't always a guarantee of quality or suitability for everyone.
The idea that products should be “chemical-free” is a fundamental misunderstanding. Everything around us, including water and air, is composed of chemicals. Instead of fearing all chemicals, it’s important to discern between those that are beneficial and those that are potentially harmful.
Many natural ingredients, like essential oils, can be highly irritating to the skin. Just because an ingredient is derived from nature doesn't automatically make it safe or suitable for topical application. For example, citrus oils, often touted as skin brighteners, can cause photosensitivity and irritation. Proper formulation and concentration are key, regardless of whether an ingredient is natural or synthetic.
The focus should be on effective ingredients that work for your specific skin type and concerns, regardless of their origin. Research-backed ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides can be extremely beneficial, even if they are produced in a lab. The goal is to find what works best, not just what sounds the most natural.
Serums have gained immense popularity in recent years, touted as potent solutions for a wide range of skin concerns. While serums can be incredibly beneficial, it’s important to understand their limitations and when professional intervention may be required.
Serums are concentrated formulations designed to deliver specific ingredients directly to the skin. They can be excellent for addressing concerns like fine lines, uneven skin tone, and dryness. However, they cannot solve all skin problems.
Certain skin conditions, such as severe acne, melasma, and deep scarring, often require prescription-strength treatments and professional medical intervention. Over-the-counter serums alone may not be sufficient to achieve significant improvements.
Serums are great for maintaining skin health, brightening skin tone, and soothing irritated skin.
Cleansing is undoubtedly a vital step in any skincare routine. But is it the most important? While a good cleanser is essential, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Other factors, like targeted treatments, moisturization, and sun protection, contribute equally to overall skin health.
The primary function of a cleanser is to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin's surface. However, a cleanser’s impact on the deeper layers of the skin is limited. Therefore, it cannot address many underlying skin concerns effectively.
A complete skincare routine incorporates multiple elements, such as moisturizing, applying sunscreen, and, if necessary, more intense treatments, to help treat specific skin concerns.
Avoid cleansers containing harsh chemicals that promise immediate skin improvement as these can damage the skin instead.
The allure of a perfect skincare routine that promises to eliminate all your skin woes is incredibly tempting. However, it's crucial to understand that skincare routines primarily focus on maintenance, prevention, and mild improvements. More significant or complex issues might require professional help.
Skincare routines help maintain the skin's barrier function, provide hydration, and protect against environmental damage. They are invaluable for keeping skin healthy and preventing premature aging, but might not be enough.
Many skin conditions need deeper work or medication to correct them, such as acne and acne scars.
Seeing a dermatologist or esthetician can help with setting the proper expectations, diagnosis, and prescriptions to fix your skin issues.
The rise of Korean beauty (K-beauty) has introduced the concept of "glass skin" – skin so flawless, smooth, and radiant that it resembles glass. While achieving a healthy glow is definitely attainable, it’s important to set realistic expectations based on your individual skin type and genetics.
The focus of K-beauty lies on hydration, gentle exfoliation, and protection from sun damage, and therefore the beauty routines are often centered around this.
An individual's skin depends on genetics, such as bone structure, skin thickness, and even how the skin reflects light.
Ingredients to improve skin tone, such as retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C, are important to include in any skincare routine.
The notion that starting anti-aging products in your teens or early twenties is a proactive measure to delay aging is a common misconception. While prevention is key, using potent anti-aging ingredients too early can actually be detrimental to your skin.
Those that are young and healthy already produce collagen without products and therefore don't need any additional products.
Retinol, vitamin C serum, AHA, BHA and exfoliants can be beneficial over the age of 25 and 30.
Since the skin naturally produces collagen, there isn't a need to increase the process.
In conclusion, approaching skincare with informed skepticism is crucial. Many popular beliefs are based on myths and oversimplified information. Focusing on understanding your own skin's needs, choosing research-backed ingredients, and seeking professional advice when necessary will lead to far more effective and satisfying skincare results.
You need to apply sunscreen if your skin is exposed to sunlight through a window or if you are under the light of electronics.
Expensive skincare products don't always equate to higher quality or effectiveness. Focus on the ingredients and their proven benefits rather than the price tag.
Yes! Oily skin still needs hydration. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to balance your skin without clogging pores.
Exfoliate 1-2 times per week depending on your skin's sensitivity. Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and damage.
Consider including retinol and peptides starting at age 25-30 and AHAs, BHAs and exfoliants after the age of 30-35.
