This post is written by one of milk + honey’s esteemed estheticians, Val P. She works at the 2nd Street District location — come say hi!
The worst of the Austin cold-snap hibernation may be over, but you know what still may be hibernating? Your body’s natural oil!
Your sebum has stayed nice and cozy in your pores all winter long. The barrage of heat and low humidity causes a pore-tightening effect that will leave the oilier skin types happy that their pores have decided to disappear, but all skin does seem to develop a new topography. As result of oil being trapped inside those teeny tiny pores, small bumps have popped up on the thinner parts of the skin, usually the forehead. Fine lines tend to linger after smiling or lifting your brows as the surface layer of the skin is not very flexible when not properly hydrated and moisturized — think paper maché.
To fix the problem before your pores unleash their fury come spring, you only need one hand and a hydrating toner. An alcohol and fragrance-free antiseptic toner with hyaluronic acid will provide water hydration to the top layers of your skin, in turn giving your face and pores some flexibility. You may use the toner throughout the day without overwhelming your skin with occlusive products, it’s more than okay to spray over makeup as well. It is not okay to put moisturizer on dry skin that hasn’t been washed, you’re just asking for additional problems. Also, make sure you’re not moisturizing dead skin cells, it’s a waste of moisturizer and creates buildup in your pores, so exfoliate one to three times weekly depending on your exfoliation method and skin type. Ideally, you should wear a heavier moisturizer, or a thin application of a hydration masque to sleep over your toner and serums, so that your skin can repair itself overnight for the day ahead without bacterial interference or dehydrating. You can cut back on the moisturizer once the weather warms, of course. If you’ve been neglecting your skin this winter then you should consider a facial with added exfoliation and hydration to get your skin glowing again. These are just a few suggestions for common post-winter skin challenges.
For a skin routine tailored to your skin, book a consultation to discuss treatment, products, and home care.
My Recommended Service:
Signature Plus Facial $145 with a Today’s Peel $50
Product Recommendations:
Mystic by Cosmedix ($36.50) This toner has a refreshing cucumber-citrus aroma and contains skin calming L-alpha bisabolol, high performance humectant Sodium PCA, precursors to hyaluronic acid L-Limonene & D-Glucuronic acid, mixed with a heavy dosage of anti-viral/ant-bacterial free radical fighting Deuterium Oxide and Witch Hazel. A perfect toner for year-round hydrating for all skin types.
Rescue Balm by Cosmedix ($44)
The delicious cherry infused hydration masque provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, and melanin suppression. Willowherb and a potent Copper Complex promote collagen and fibroblast production as well as regeneration and healing. This masque is a must have for sensitive, dry, injured, eczema, and post-procedure skin that can also be used as a moisturizer.
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