Rekindle Your Love Of SPF

Hey there, beautiful skin seekers! Let's talk about a topic that affects many of us: hyperpigmentation. You might have heard this term before, but if you're not quite sure what it is, hyperpigmentation is basically when our skin produces more melanin than usual, leading to dark patches or spots.

Many factors can contribute to hyperpigmentation, including hormonal changes, sun exposure, and inflammation. Speaking of which, did you know that SPF can play a HUGE role in preventing and minimizing hyperpigmentation? That's right, my friend, sunscreen is not just for protecting us from skin cancer and premature aging. Let's dive a little deeper into how SPF can help with hyperpigmentation.

First of all, sun exposure is a major trigger for hyperpigmentation. When our skin is exposed to UV rays, it triggers the production of melanin as a defense mechanism. If we don't wear sunscreen or don't wear enough of it, that melanin production can go into overdrive, leading to those unwanted dark spots. So wearing a broad-spectrum SPF (which protects against both UVA and UVB rays) can help prevent hyperpigmentation from developing in the first place.

But what if you already have some dark spots? Can SPF help with that? The answer is YES! When we expose hyperpigmented skin to UV rays, it can actually make those spots even darker and harder to fade. By wearing SPF every day, regardless of whether you're spending time outdoors or not, you're helping to prevent further darkening and allowing any existing spots to gradually fade over time.

But there's a catch - not all sunscreens are created equal. It's crucial to choose an SPF that's right for your skin type and needs. Some chemical sunscreens can actually worsen hyperpigmentation in some people, so opting for a physical sunscreen (which contains minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) is often a safer bet. We love the Lillian Sophia Physical Tint SPF, and EltaMD UV Physical. And as always, be sure to reapply throughout the day (every 80 minutes), especially if you're sweating or swimming.

In summary, hyperpigmentation can be a frustrating skin concern, but incorporating SPF into your daily routine is a simple and effective way to prevent and minimize it. So slather on that sunscreen, my friend, and let's keep those dark spots at bay!

Sandwiching Your Retinol

Retinol!​​​​​​​​

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By now, you either use it, have used it, or have heard about retinol. Maybe you've heard that it's the miracle anti-aging product (you're not wrong), maybe you've heard that it can be super irritating and hard to use (also, not wrong). If you're sitting at your desk, distracted by the tight, flaky skin flying off your face, or breaking out more than usual whilst using a product that is designed to make said acne disappear- keep reading.

Retinol is both a prescription (found under many names) and a cosmeceutical. Prescription retinol such as Atralin, Avita, Refissa, Renova, Retin-A, Tretinoin, etc are prescribed by a Dermatologist or PCP to treat various forms of acne and Rosacea. These topicals are also amazing anti-aging products. Retinols are also available at some Spas for sale OTC (not to get confused with moisturizers marketed to contain retinol- we'll get into that another day).

So, now that you know what it is and what it does to your skin, you might be wondering "but how can I use this product without feeling so much discomfort?" It's important to use your retinol regularly (whether that's once weekly, or every night). When you start and stop and apply without any regularity, your skin has a hard time acclimating to it. So, instead of throwing your miracle tube in the time-out corner because you need a break- try sandwiching your retinol, (and also maybe lessen the days/ week you use it).

To sandwich your retinol, you will simply apply a light layer of moisturizer to your cleansed skin (at bedtime- retinol is ONLY for nighttime use) followed by your favorite retinol, and then topped off again with more moisturizer. This method works fabulously for clients who are new to retinol, have sensitive skin, or who struggle with dry/dehydrated skin.

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You can safely sandwich your retinol and still reap all the same benefits, but without the irritation.

​​​​​​It is, however important to not use a moisturizer that contains AHAs, BHA, or vitamin C or fragrance when combining with retinol (whether sandwiching or not!) ​​​​​​​​

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At La Bella Derma, we have a retinol for everyone, and a moisturizer too!

Post-Holiday Self Care

    

    The holidays. Regardless of what you celebrate, you either love them or loathe them. This time meant for togetherness and reflection is often marred by packed schedules, long to-do lists, social obligations, and just an awful lot of stress. When was the last time you took a break from thinking of everyone else to think of YOURSELF? If you put your own needs in the backseat last month, we’re with you. But now it’s January. New year, new you. 

The term “self care” was coined sometime in the 1950’s. It was popularized during the Civil Rights movement of the ‘60s due in part to its use by activists of the time, such as poet Audra Lorde. What was originally seen as a revolutionary act–taking care of yourself in the face of major social and personal trauma–has become something we now understand is hugely important for your physical and mental health. When you are not properly managing your stress, it can manifest in a variety of symptoms, such as insomnia, lack of concentration, irritability, headaches, and gastrointestinal distress. Repeated acute stress (stress that affects you frequently) has also been shown to contribute to inflammation in the circulatory system!

That all seems pretty serious, but let’s talk about how to manage it before you get stressed out about your stress. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) recommends setting time aside for activities that promote mental and physical wellness. For example, taking a walk for just 30 minutes a day can greatly improve your mood. Additionally, saying “no” to things/people and setting boundaries is important to avoid burnout. Lastly, it’s important to take time out of your schedule to do activities that relax and nurture you. This could be something as simple as curling up with a book, having a bath, or getting a facial in an environment meant for total relaxation. 

So let’s start this year off right. Taking care of yourself is imperative to whole body wellness. The way we react to stress greatly affects every aspect of our wellbeing, from our quality of sleep to our appetite to the health of our circulatory system. Wrinkles? Yup. Acne? Absolutely. That’s right- skin conditions can be caused by stress! It’s OK. The skin professionals at La Bella Derma have got your back!

Written by Taylor Blair for La Bella Derma

https://meridian.allenpress.com/jmhc/article-abstract/32/3/247/83286/Self-care-and-Well-being-in-Mental-Health

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1365-2524.2011.01014.x

https://mhanational.org/taking-good-care-yourselfhttps://mhanational.org/taking-good-care-yourself

https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/stress-coping/care-for-yourself/index.html

https://www.verywellmind.com/self-care-strategies-overall-stress-reduction-3144729

https://www.verywellmind.com/how-and-why-to-find-time-for-yourself-3144757

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-care