March 2021:
Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
My skin has been an absolute pimple mess with the increased use of wearing a mask to keep me safe from COVID. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Need Pimple Control, Monica F.
Dear Need Pimple Control,
Our clinic has seen an exponential increase in MASKNE which is acne caused by increased use of wearing a face covering. Maskne is a result of several factors: breathing causing increased moisture along with the entrapment of oils, bacteria, and dead skin cells can create the perfect skin clogging storm. Adding constant friction leads to inflammation of the sebaceous glands which can also result in acne flares. First of all, make sure you are changing your mask out frequently throughout the day. If it is disposable, dispose of it after one use. If you are wearing a cloth mask, please wash it after each use. You can set a time to do this every 15 minutes to 4 hours, whichever works best for you. Using a gentle cleanser after removing your mask helps remove the excess oil, bacteria from the area. If you do not have time to wash your face, using an AHA pad for a quick wipe down to the area will do. Also, the use of a non-comedogenic moisturizer with ceramides is imperative to help keep the skin barrier at its healthiest. A disrupted barrier can lead to irritation and more inflammation. If you are not getting better, please schedule an appointment with a Board Certified Dermatologist.
Diva Tip:
Check out the MASKNE Kit I put together from our Dermatology office. The perfect combo to prevent facial congestion and to keep that skin barrier strong.
Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
There are so many supplements on the market today, how do I know I am getting the best, and do they even work?
Overwhelmed, Nicole T.
Dear Overwhelmed,
I couldn’t agree with you more. It can be overwhelming trying to fi nd the right supplement that targets your needs. Though, in general, more studies are needed for the effectiveness of supplement use, I personally have been taking supplements consistently for over 20 years and will continue to do so. I truly believe in good skin health when treating from within being as important as treating from the outside. When looking for a quality brand, I look for human clinical studies as this gives me more confidence in receiving something that has been researched. Quality of Life Supplements are one of my favorites because of this and I know 100% of their ingredients are backed by clinical studies. They offer bundles that are specifically designed to complement each other so there is reassurance you are taking something that will be safe. My “go-to” is their “Beauty From Within Bundle” which I featured below! Save 10% by using code SAVVYDERM10 and get glowing! qualityoife.net
Diva Tip: Just like everything, consistency is key for the best results, and results can vary per individual.
Renata Block, MMS, PA-C, is the creator of Savvy Derm Diva, an online resource for proper skincare. Ask Savvy Derm Diva is a monthly column answering your skincare related concerns! Make sure you follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! You can make an appointment with her via TeleMedicine or in person at Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine, LLC, or TEXT to 847-802-9667.
MUAH!????
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