SKIN CARE TIPS

How Do I... What Do I... Where Do I...

When Do I... Why Do I... Who Do I...

(Ever asked those questions when it comes to beauty/skin care?

Below you will find some answers to these questions.

Keep in mind, stressing ages us. Where does this stress usually show up? Of course! On our face! Our face is our 'calling card'...who we are.. the first thing people see when we walk into a room.

Hopefully I am able to answer some of your questions right here!

First, Let's talk about How, What, Where, When, Why... Skin care SIMPLE routine and How to use a Face Serum. I am asked quite often... What do I put on first, after cleansing? Do I wear a serum at night?

Do I put it on first? When do I use the moisturizer? After the serum? etc...

How To Use Face Serum

If you’re in the market for a face serum or have recently found one to try, I’m sure you’re eager to test it out and start seeing some results.

But no matter how potent or miraculous a product is, it won’t work unless you’re using it correctly.

Facial serum isn’t one of those “slap it on and hope for the best” type of skincare solutions.

But most likely, you’re looking for something that’s fast, easy, and most importantly effective.

You’re in luck because face serum takes just a matter of seconds to apply and then you’re free to go about your day.

Because these serums are bursting with only the most beneficial and high-quality ingredients, they work quickly and seamlessly to offer you some serious skin improvements.

What more could you really ask for?

So, before you start on your journey to new and improved skin, let’s go over the fundamentals of using face serum so you’re properly equipped.

How To Use Face Serum

Follow these steps to learn how to properly use and get the most out of your face serum.

Step #1 – Cleanse

Before you apply your face serum, make sure your skin is properly prepped.

Cleanse your skin with your favorite face wash and then exfoliate if necessary.

This helps prepare your skin and remove any buildup or debris that could hinder the absorption of your serum.

Step #2 – Apply Toner, Mist, or Water

When it comes to skincare, correct layering of products is essential.

The general rule of thumb is to apply products based on their viscosity, so start with the thinnest product and finish with the heaviest or thickest.

[*See below for an example of a morning skincare routine in the correct order]

After cleansing, apply a small amount of liquid, alcohol-free facial toner onto a cotton ball or pad.

In small, gentle circles, apply the toner across your entire face.

Pay special attention to your hairline, chin, cheeks, and nose.

Don’t forget about your neck, either.

You can also spritz your face with a delicate mist that contains skin-nourishing ingredients like rose water, coconut water, witch hazel, or aloe vera juice.

If facial toners or mists aren’t your style, you can dampen a washcloth with lukewarm water and gently pat on your face.

This step is crucial because damp skin, whether by toner, mist, or water, is up to 10x more permeable than dry skin alone and in turn will be more accepting of your nutrient dense face serum.

Step #3 – Application of Facial Serum

After you’ve cleansed and dampened your skin, it’s now time to apply the superstar, your face serum.

It’s always important to read the directions thoroughly on your individual face serum.

Some serums may have specific instructions for you.

In general, less is more when it comes to serums.

The amount you need may vary depending on your skin and the particular product you have.

The standard application is 2 pumps or a pea-sized amount.

If you have a dropper formula, use 3-4 drops of serum.

You want just enough to lightly cover (not coat) your entire face and neck.

Remember, face serums are VERY potent with high concentrations of ingredients.

Resist the urge to slather on your serum, this could lead to irritation and poor absorption of the product.

You can apply your serum in 2 different ways depending on which you prefer.

One way is to apply the serum with your fingertips.

Use your fingertips to gently apply the serum to your face and neck and then lightly tap, pat, and smooth the serum out.

Avoid tugging the skin and rubbing too hard, let the product absorb on its own once you’ve smoothed it out.

The second method is to use your palms.

Apply 2 pumps or 3-4 drops of serum into your palm.

Gently rub your palms together to warm and activate the serum.

Lightly press your palms onto your skin and pat the serum on in outwards and upwards motions until it is fully applied to your face and neck.

Step #4 – Wait 5 Minutes

After you’ve completely applied your serum with either your fingertips or palms, wait 5 minutes for the product to fully absorb.

Well-formulated face serums absorb incredibly fast and fully disappear into your face and neck

If your serum is leaving you with a sticky or oily residue, it’s most likely not doing its job effectively.

Step #5 – Moisturize

While face serums contain moisturizing agents, they aren’t intended to replace your daily moisturizer or night cream.

Rather, serums supplement your moisturizer, and each product greatly benefits the other.

After you’ve waited 5 minutes for the serum to absorb, apply your moisturizer to your face and neck.

The moisturizer is the final step and finishing touch that helps seal in your serum and lock in the nutrients.

It also gives you an extra layer of moisture to protect and hydrate your skin for a supple, dewy glow.

**You can also mix your Squalane Oil with your moisturizer for best results!

The Correct Order of Application for Skincare Products

With all the potential products you’re putting on your skin, it can get really confusing deciding when to apply what.

Here’s the correct and most beneficial order to apply your facial products.

If you don’t happen to use certain products mentioned, just move on to the next relevant step that you use on a daily basis.

Cleanser
Exfoliator
Toner, Mist, Facial Essence...or water, so your face is moist.
Treatment Products (such as acne spot treatment)
Face Serum *our personal MVP
Eye Cream
Moisturizer (with Squalane Oil, if you like)
SPF
Lip Balm With SPF
Makeup (primer, foundation, concealer, powder, etc.) **For you beauties that no longer want or need to wear foundation/makeup, You can use a tinted SPF. And for a spectacular glow.. add some diamond infused powder!

Bonus Tips For Face Serums

Here are a few bonus tips you can utilize when using your face serum.

Tip #1 – Patch Test

What makes face serums work so well are their highly potent and concentrated ingredients.

If you have sensitive skin or are new to face serums, be sure to start off with a patch test.

Try the product on a small area of the skin to see how your skin reacts.

On the side of the neck is a good place to test to see if you’re potentially allergic to the product.

Some serums will naturally leave the face slightly pink, but will subside after about 10-15 minutes.

If you’re having a reaction, the skin will become itchy along with a red rash.

If this happens, you can apply cold plain yogurt or Milk of Magnesia to the affected area.

Let it sit on your skin for 15 minutes and then gently rinse off.

You can repeat this method every 3 hours until the reaction wears off.

Tip #2 – Storing Your Serum

To get the most out of your face serum, store it in a cool, dry place.

This also helps extend the life of it.

Tip #3 – Sleep On Satin

Other than being luxurious, satin pillowcases are ideal for face serum.

Before you hit the hay, wait 10 minutes for your nighttime beauty products to soak in.

Satin pillowcases are great for 2 reasons.

First, they diminish the occurrence of wrinkles and acne because they completely eliminate pillow creases in your skin.

Second, they allow your serum to stay put throughout the night as opposed to cotton pillowcases, which can absorb your serum!

Tip #4 – Avoid Fragrances and Color

We’re often drawn to products that look and smell pretty… it’s simply human nature.

However, added colors and fragrances don’t do any good when it comes to your face serum.

In fact, some can even hinder the absorption of your precious serum.

It’s best to opt for serums that rely solely on quality ingredients without any extra fluff.

A Final Note…

A face serum can be your new secret weapon when it comes to achieving perfect skin.

You just have to make sure you’re using it correctly in order to reap all of the skin goodness.

Thankfully, face serums aren’t super tricky or time consuming to use.

There are just a few main steps to keep in mind once you start using one.

Once you know the steps, it’ll be a piece of cake going forward and you’ll be a pro in no time.

Here’s a quick recap on how to properly use face serum.

First, cleanse and exfoliate your skin and follow it up with a toner or facial mist.

Next, gently apply a small amount of serum to your face and neck with either your fingertips or palms.

Then, wait 5 minutes for your face serum to fully absorb into your skin.

Apply your favorite moisturizer. (which can be mixed with Sqaulane oil)

If this is for daytime... Use SPF Face and Lips. Lastly, apply makeup, if needed.

Also, be mindful of the correct order of application for your skincare products.

This will help optimize your entire beauty routine.

Rosewater as a Toner.

Here's another question I get quite often. Is Rosewater a good toner?

** I use Rosewater as a toner before your serum and moisturizer when you come in for 'certain' facial/treatments. And everyone loves the feeling of the spray, as well as the nice pleasant fragrance.

Is Rosewater a Toner? A Guide to a Toner From Nature

Rosewater and toner are two commonly misplaced skincare products. And this is because they seem to do the same thing for your skin. Moreover, they look very much alike. But it is a comparison worth looking into.

Rosewater is a natural scented toner gotten from the distilled petals of the Damask rose, Rosa Damascena. More than toning your skin rose water does a lot more like using its scent as a form of therapy.

While there are similarities between rosewater and toners, there are some things that differentiate rosewater from a toner. Continue scrolling to see more.

What Does Toner Do for Skin?

Toners fill in the extra cleansing step in your skincare routine. It removes residues of oil, dirt, makeup, and dead skin cells, prepping your skin for other steps in your routine.

Also, it helps to balance your skin’s pH, minimize pores and boost your skin’s protection. If pores aren’t so prominent and open to the penetration of irritants, your skin will be protected from irritations and breakouts.

These functions synergize to improve the overall appearance and texture of your skin. Toner contains ingredients like alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs & BHAs), chamomile, aloe, glycerin, and rose water.

Is Rosewater a Good Toner?

Rosewater is a natural toner that benefits the skin. It has some functions that are similar to that of toners and has other functions that are different, between both types of products.

Rosewater has a pH of 5.5 which helps to balance your skin’s pH and reduce risks of acne breakouts. Just like toners, it deep cleanses your skin, penetrating your pores and getting rid of excess oil and dead skin cells buildup.

This natural toner works just like toners but can do even more in your beauty regimen. But unlike a toner, rosewater is purely natural and has no side effects on your skin. Rosewater works its pores unclogging benefits without alcohol.

What Does Rosewater Do?

Rosewater has a lot of beauty benefits as a toner, and they are all targeted at improving the appearance and texture of your skin. The benefits of using rosewater in your beauty regimen are listed below:

Cleanser

Rosewater is a cleanser and a toner. It double cleanses your skin to remove stubborn residues of oil, makeup, dirt, and grime. This way it prepares your skin as a clean canvas to receive other products down your routine.

Hydration boost

Rosewater is very hydrating for your skin. It moisturizes your skin and gives you a natural glow.

Unlike toners that contain alcohol and other chemicals that can cause your skin to dry out, rosewater replenishes hydration levels which can help to improve your natural barrier.

Sebum regulation

Steady moisture levels help to regulate oil production. When your skin is properly moisturized, it does not overproduce oil. Regular oil levels equal blemish-free skin. Moreover, it cuts down excess shine.

Using rosewater daily as part of your skincare routine will regulate sebum production and give your face a dewy finish.

Optimum protection

Rosewater contains antioxidants that help to protect your skin from environmental aggressors. These aggressors can trigger the formation of oxidative stress which can lead to acne breakouts and premature aging.

In addition, rosewater protects your skin from irritants and bacteria that can lead to infections. And these infections can disrupt the function of your natural barrier and distort the texture and complexion of your skin.

Healing balm

Rosewater has antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties which synergize with the antioxidants to facilitate wound healing. Also, it helps to reduce skin redness which may be due to bites from insects or inflamed acne.

Balance skin pH

Like a toner, rosewater can balance your skin pH. It has a pH value that restores your skin to its acidic state. By balancing skin pH, your skin’s natural barrier and immune factors are optimized to be self-defensive against the penetration of irritants.

A balanced pH inhibits the growth of bacteria and keeps your skin from getting flaky or red.

Anti-aging ingredient

Rosewater is rich in vitamins C and A which are essential ingredients in any anti-aging routine. They help to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, proteins that promote skin elasticity.

These vitamins do this by inhibiting the synthesis of enzymes that would naturally degrade these proteins. More so, by keeping moisture levels steady, rosewater prevents the formation of fine lines and facial wrinkles.

Soothes your skin

Sensitive skin and eczema skin are naturally easily irritated by some skincare products. But rosewater is one of the products that is an exemption to this. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to calm your skin and prevent future or worsened breakouts.

Reduce eye puffiness

Misted or chilled rosewater perfectly calms the skin around your eyes and helps to banish dark patches that come with a fatigued eye. Rosewater does not contain alcohol or chemicals, so, you can safely use it around your eyes.

Can You Use Rosewater Instead of Toner?

Yes, you can. In place of a face toner, you can use rosewater and still reap all the benefits of toning your skin.

Rosewater can fill in the role of a cleanser, pore refiner, and soothing balm for inflamed and sensitive skin types. Moreover, it opens your skin up to receive the active ingredients in other skincare products down your routine.

Additionally, misted rosewater is very handy on the go. You can use it the same way you use a misted toner for midday touchups.

Can You Use Replace Moisturizer With Rosewater?

The hydrating benefit of rosewater makes it a good moisturizer. However, it cannot replace a moisturizer. To start with, they are two different products that serve two distinct purposes in any skincare routine.

Rosewater is a liquid-based product, and a moisturizer contains both water and oil. Also, rosewater cleanses and preps your skin while moisturizer is an occlusive that helps to keep moisture trapped in.

Whether you use rosewater or not, your skin needs a moisturizer to seal in moisture, the ingredients of other products, and to improve your natural barrier.

I hope these tips help you in your daily/nightly facial routine.

For keeping your face youthful, vibrant, glowing, getting a professional deep cleansing is always the key.

For regular beauty/facial maintenance, Dermaplaning (taking off the peach fuzz and dead skin) with a *Hydrafacial or Microdermabrasion (taking off the dead skin) with a *Hydrafacial will keep your skin clean and glowing. It's best to do these treatments every 4 - 6 weeks.

Some clients do these treatments every other month. Having a facial routine keeps your skin always glowing with the deep exfoliating cleanse, the treatment, the hydration and the wonderful serums I use with the ice hammer to seal it in. :)

You can also do other Facial treatments within this time... such as the Luxury Gua Sha Facial, EGF/ Peptide with Hydrafacial and Red Light Treatment, CO2 Carboxy Gel Treatment (Dermaplaning comes with this treatment), BB Glow Treatment, The ULTIMATE Facial, as well as more intense skin treatments, such as.. RF Microneedling, or Traditional Derma Pen Microneedling, as well as RF Facial Skin Tightening.

You can read about each of these facial/facial treatments on the website and see what is best for you.

* My Hydrafacial is not a chemical/HydraPeel, it is only for hydration and a deep cleanse. There will be no downtime or your skin will not be dry or flaky after my Hydrafacial.

A question I get is... What IS best for me? What IS best for YOU, is what YOU want to achieve.

If you have any questions, please fill free to contact me with from the top of this page.. Click on "Contact" and I will get back with you asap.

Keep checking back to this page. I will be adding more Skin Care Tips!

Thanks!

Darlene

Everything You Need To Know About Lymphatic Drainage Facials

Massage work is a fundamental step in most professional facials, as expertly kneading the skin can promote better product absorption, stimulate circulation, and help sculpt the muscles. It's arguably the best part of the lineup (IMO), as it not only improves skin appearance but also ensures a relaxing experience—for many, it's a significant part of what makes a facial such a treat.

Now, some types of facials will really home in on the massage aspect, focusing on specific meridians of the face to help drain excess fluid and encourage flow. Enter, lymphatic drainage facials: such as, my signature facial “The luxury Gua Sha Facial. Find out how this luxury facial can also be a wonderful treatment that can benefit your skin, how it works, and what to know before booking your session.

To learn specifically about The Gua Sha Facial, Click here > The Luxury Gua Sha Facial Information

To learn more about Lymphatic Drainage and all its benefits, read below.

What is a Lymphatic Drainage facial?

First, it helps to understand a bit about the lymphatic system: The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and other organs that keeps body fluid in balance. Lymph, the clear fluid that travels within the lymphatic system, helps deliver vital nutrients while ushering away toxins and waste—essentially, it helps aid the body's natural detox process.

However: The lymphatic system relies on muscle contraction, diet, exercise, and physical manipulation to function normally. Unlike the circulatory system, your lymphatic system doesn't have its own pump. That's where a lymphatic facial comes in. You have a high concentration of lymph nodes in your face and neck, so specific movements can help encourage flow. I use my hands, as well as a Gua Sha stone for this type of treatment/facial.

For the skin, conditions like puffiness, acne, dryness, dullness, and even skin sensitivity can be improved and even resolved by simple lymphatic stimulation because it helps the body do what it's meant to do: heal.

Benefits.

Improves dull skin: Lymphatic drainage can have a significant impact on the appearance of your skin, especially if you are showing signs of lymphatic buildup. As you clear that buildup and encourage circulation, those vital nutrients have a much easier time reaching the skin cells—and nourished, happy skin cells appear way more radiant.
Decreases puffiness: Lymphatic drainage is often used to reduce puffiness and inflammation, as lymph buildup can also result in swelling. Those gentle massage techniques can help drain and circulate that excess fluid, thus deflating any puffiness.
Can help with acne: A stagnant lymphatic system will cause acne, breakouts, even full dry skin. As the lymphatic system accumulates more and more waste, it can result in inflammation (and all acne stems from inflammation of some kind). So, by flushing out that waste and encouraging flow, you can keep the skin from becoming congested.
Massages the sinuses: If you suffer from allergies or any sinus complications/congestion, this service can be very beneficial for you. When the tissues in your nose swell up, those sinuses passages become blocked, and a lymphatic drainage facial can help evacuate some of that fluid and clear the airways. The massage itself gently probes the sinuses, which is a lovely sensation if you're feeling blocked up—just make sure to speak with your doctor to make sure it's the right move for you.

How does it work?

Of course, every treatment is different with different estheticians or facial practitioners. However, the esthetician or facial practitioner will likely begin by applying some sort of serum or oil to avoid any friction. Then apply specialized movements with the hands or Gua Sha stone, which may start from the top of the head, then move from the center of the face (near the nose) and work outward, bringing it around and down to the collarbone area. For my treatment, you may click on > The Gua Sha Facial.

The use of a Gua Sha stone is to enhance the draining experience. These are great tools; however, when draining the lymphatic systems, the key is a very light and gentle touch. You don't want to drag the skin, which can create lines or wrinkles. So, if you are doing this at home, make sure you have an oil or skin cream on your face and neck to prevent dragging.

That's why it's best to have an esthetician, facial practitioner or licensed acupuncturist specifically trained in this type of facial. Not only will they have a gentler touch, but they'll also know exactly how to target the channels on your face, thus providing a more successful experience.

Who should get one?

Considering lymph buildup can result in a variety of skin concerns (dryness, dullness, puffiness, acne, etc.), pretty much any skin type can benefit from a lymphatic drainage facial. However, if you're dealing with any open, active acne, you might want to skip this type of facial, as it may be too much stimulation.

Risks & warnings.

A lymphatic drainage facial is associated with many skin care benefits—but it should not be confused with a basic facial massage. In fact, lymphatic massage has actually been used as a centuries-old medicinal practice, as the lymphatic system is part of the immune system. So, if you're immunocompromised in any way, please speak with your doctor before deciding to manipulate this essential network.

As for the service itself, it likely won't require any downtime on the skin care front. The only thing that comes to mind, with lymphatic drainage, is that it can leave you feeling tired or even a little exhausted. After all, it takes work for your body to flush out all of that accumulated waste! That said, you may need to rest for the day—it might not be best to jump into any strenuous activity. It's more common after a full-body lymphatic drainage massage, with a lymphatic massage therapist, but an important warning nonetheless for facials, too.

You also want to make sure to drink plenty of water post-treatment—after those excess fluids get released from the tissues, you want to continue to flush them out of the body. Yes, that means a few more trips to the bathroom, but it's the only way the waste can truly exit.

The Takeaway.

Lymphatic drainage facials can help encourage circulation in the face, which can make the skin appear brighter, reduce puffiness, and even help with breakouts. Again, this facial is not for everyone, so make sure to speak with your doctor if you have any specific concerns.

And if you're curious about other types of facials, make sure to browse through all my services—chances are you'll find one that suits your skin care goals.