News

Reviewed.com posted “Here’s How Pollution Affects Your Skin—and How To Prevent It” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert insights on the effects of pollution on skin.

We know how air pollution negatively impacts the environment, but a lesser known fact is how it affects your skin. From breakouts and premature aging to inflammation and irritation, some argue that protecting our skin from the harmful effects of air pollution is just as important as shielding it from UV rays. And—not to alarm you—but depending on your city’s level of pollution, you may be more susceptible to those damaging effects.

Here’s how you can tailor your beauty routine to protect against and even reverse the effects of pollution, courtesy of Dr. Purvisha Patel, a Tennessee-based dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare.

What is air pollution?

Air pollution refers to smog as well as floating particles (a.k.a. particulate matter) present in the environment. It can come from things like cigarette smoke, fires, chemical reactions in the atmosphere, car exhausts, metal, and plain old dust. These substances are harmful to human health because they distribute cell-damaging chemicals such as sulfur and carbon dioxide into the air we breathe. Some types of fine particulate matter, like dust and pollen, have a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres (referred to as PM2.5), which is significantly smaller than the size of skin pores. This makes it easy for these floating particles to seep into your skin and cause conditions.

How does pollution affect your skin?

One factor to be mindful of when it comes to pollution is how it makes your skin more susceptible to sun damage. “The diminishing ozone layer increases the amount of UV radiation we absorb from the sun, which increases our risk of skin cancer and photo damage,” Patel explains.

Acne is another issue that can arise as a result of dirt-laden air. “A hot, sweaty, dusty climate can increase sweat production and follicular occlusion (a.k.a. blocked hair follicles), which can worsen acne,” says Patel. Pollutants in the air can also exacerbate inflammation for those who have melasma (a mask-like hyperpigmentation that shows up as brown blotches typically on the cheeks) or rosacea (an inflammatory condition that causes redness, inflammation, and visible blood vessels on the face).

Pollution can also increase free-radical damage to the skin. “Free radicals are oxygen-containing molecules that have an uneven number of electrons, making them charged particles that can cause DNA damage,” Patel explains. “When DNA is damaged, weaker cells are formed and [can] result in skin sagging and aging.” While city dwellers are more likely to have a higher exposure to free radicals, damage can still occur in non-urban areas.

Finally, those with dry or sensitive skin are more likely than those with oily or combination skin to experience the damaging effects of pollution, says Patel. Here’s why: Skin has what’s called a skin barrier, which is a protective layer designed to both trap moisture and offer protection from environmental damage. Patel notes that people with dry or sensitive skin types have a thinner skin barrier, giving pollutants an express ticket to the skin.

How to protect your skin from pollution

Particulate matter, such as dirt and soot, can create a film on top of the skin and cause physical irritation and inflammation, but unless you recently moved to an area with more pollution and noticed a definite skin change, Patel says it may be difficult to know if air impurities caused your breakouts or irritation. To be safe—and as a good rule of thumb—she recommends washing your face twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, to remove these pollutants and keep breakouts at bay. “Preventing environmental acne is best done by using cleansers that cleanse and exfoliate the skin,” she says. “This prevents follicular occlusion, decreases oil production, kills any bacterial or fungal growth, and decreases inflammation.”

Also, aim for non-comedogenic skincare products (products that won’t block your pores), as those containing ingredients like coconut oil and cocoa butter rank high on the comedogenic scale. Using such ingredients in an environment that is hot and dusty can cause the dust and pollution to stick on the skin, thus increasing acne.

If you live in a cold climate, air quality can still be hazardous to your skin, as pollutants caused by wood burning and idle car exhausts are still lingering—not to mention the cracked, red, tightened skin that comes with low humidity when temps drop. In this case, incorporating ingredients like ceramides is key, as they’ll help fortify the skin barrier and stave off irritation and dryness caused by elements.

Certain ingredients that may be “anti-pollution” also include antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E, which help with combating free radical damage; niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, which help repair the skin barrier; and charcoal and salt, which help with drawing out impurities and toxins like pollutants. These ingredients can be found in everything from serums and moisturizers to face masks and eye creams.

Gentle cleansers that whisk away impurities

Suitable for all skin types, the Glamglow TropicalCleanse Daily Exfoliating Cleanser is gentle enough to be used daily but powerful enough to slough away the day’s impurities for a fresh, ultra-clean complexion.

If you have dry skin, use CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser at the end of the day, as it washes away dirt while its ceramide-rich formula helps skin maintain a healthier barrier, keeping irritating pollutants at bay.

Serums that protect and fortify the skin barrier

This SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum claims to protect your skin from free radicals and reduce damage from the sun’s rays and ozone pollution up to 41 percent using ascorbic acid (a.k.a. vitamin C). And thanks to vitamin E and ferulic acid, the vitamin C is stabilized and has a longer shelf life than other ascorbic acid serums.

Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum has nearly 4,000 fans on Amazon, and when it comes to its pollution-fighting properties, we can see why. Hyaluronic acid strengthens the skin barrier, which makes it harder for pollutants to enter.

Moisturizers that seal in hydration and protect against sun damage

Looking for a moisturizer that protects against the elements and works well underneath makeup? You’ll find it in Osea’s Atmosphere Protection Cream, which touts skin-shielding algae and avocado oil as its hero ingredients. Not to mention, it feels surprisingly lightweight for how hydrating it is, making it ideal as a base for your complexion go-tos.

With all of this talk about pollution, it’s easy to forget about protecting your skin from the sun, but the SPF-containing Daily Facial Moisturizer from Cetaphil checks all of the boxes with its non-comedogenic formula and broad-spectrum sun protection.

Masks for deep pore cleansing

Origins’ Clear Improvement Charcoal Honey Mask to Purify and Nourish has over 700 5-star reviews. It extracts pollutants with charcoal (which can feel drying), but it leaves behind a surprisingly hydrated feel thanks to wildflower honey.

When we think of anything related to pores, our minds race to Bioré’s Charcoal Whipped Purifying Detox Mask—not just for its ability to cleanse pores from debris and dirt under five minutes, but because it does so at a wallet-friendly price tag.

Read the full article

MindBodyGreen posted “Are Your Mask Loops Irritating Your Ears? The One Tip You’re Probably Overlooking” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert commentary on face mask irritation behind the ears, recommending Visha Skincare’s RejuVenating Moisturizer to help keep the skin behind the ears less raw and prone to irritation.

Quick review: The ever-bemoaned maskne has two, equally frustrating components. First, there’s the influx of breakouts and pimples (sometimes cropping up in the strangest of places) from sweat and breath droplets pooling in your mask. Then there’s the inflammation you may experience from friction: When you secure a fabric covering to your face, any rubbing or chafing can irritate the skin.

You know this, you’ve learned this, and perhaps you’ve got a patchwork of blemishes to prove it. But what about the soft skin behind your ears? It’s an oft-forgotten area within the maskne debacle, but the skin around your ears is your skin all the same.

If your mask loops are giving you grief, here’s how you can calm the irritation, STAT.

What to do if your mask loops are irritating your ears.

The skin behind your ears is quite sensitive—that’s why many experts suggest patch-testing new products in that area, as any irritation will likely show up in that delicate spot (it’s also discreet enough to hide, just in case you do face a reaction to a certain ingredient. But anyway!).

In terms of what to do, let’s revert to the maskne conversation, shall we? Just as you’d tend to the skin around your mouth and nose, the same counsel goes for the skin behind your ears: According to board-certified dermatologist Purshiva Patel, M.D., founder of Visha Skincare, applying an occlusive behind the ears (like a cream or oil) can keep the loops from rubbing that sensitive skin raw. So while you’re smearing on a hydrating moisturizer before securing your mask, massage a little product behind the ears as well, for good measure.

While having some sort of barrier can be helpful, unfortunately (just like with maskne) some irritation is inevitable. Especially if you’re wearing the mask for quite some time, your ears are bound to become sore at some point. The key here, Patel notes, is to tend to your ears after the fact—just as you would for mask-induced irritation on your face. She recommends dabbing a moisturizing cream behind the ears—or anywhere you face friction, for that matter—at night to soothe the area. Look for hydrating, anti-inflammatory creams that help repair the skin barrier (this option includes aloe, jojoba oil, and glycerin), or spot-treat the area with straight aloe or a soothing colloidal oat mixture.

The takeaway.

Irritation from your mask loops—it happens! Approach the issue just as you would the friction on your nose and mouth; all it takes is some diligent post-mask love.

Read the full article

Best Products posted “11 Best Eyelash Serums To Help You Ditch The Falsies For Good” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert commentary on the effectiveness of lash serums.

Long, luscious eyelashes: We all want them, and only a few of us were genetically blessed to effortlessly have them. Though many of us could (and should) feel good about their lashes in their naturally shorter form, there’s nothing wrong with boosting their look with a swipe of mascara or some false lashes.

But, if you truly want naturally longer, stronger lashes, then swapping the mascara tube for an eyelash serum sounds like the best move. According to Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, eyelash serums are a great way to help strengthen brittle lashes to make them look and feel their best.

“Eyelash serums work best on those with short, weak lashes,” Patel says. However, she notes that there are quite a few options out there for you to choose from.

“Latisse is the only FDA-approved prescription treatment for hypotrichosis,” she says. “The active ingredient is a prostaglandin called bimatoprost. It lengthens the growth cycle of eyelashes leading to longer, darker, and fuller lashes. Over the counter serums contain ingredients such as biotin, a B vitamin that helps lashes grow longer and thicker and stimulates the growth of additional eyelash follicles. Serums have lipids to condition the lashes as well. Some over the counter eyelash serums also have prostaglandin derivatives that work similar to the Rx serum.”

OK, that was pretty science-y, so putting it a little more simply: If you have more severe issues with eyelash hair loss, you’re going to want to see your doctor about prescription treatments — and if you’re looking to lightly pump up the volume, an over-the-counter option will do just the trick. But before you go DIY-ing your own lash serum, Patel notes that there are a few things you should stay away from.

“Avoid essential oils, as they can cause a contact dermatitis and harm the eye if it goes inside,” says Patel. “Also, avoid edible ingredients such as coconut oil or olive oil, as they can help grow bacteria, increasing the chance of sties and eye infections.”

So, now that you have the basic facts on eyelash serums, check out more info on our favorites below:

1. RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner

When it comes to a tried and true eyelash serum, Patel recommends Revitalash’s signature serum. This lash conditioner is formulated to address the visible signs of eyelash aging (yep, that’s a thing) from chemical and environmental stressors. The results: healthier-looking, more luxurious lashes.

2. Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum

Already have some semi-permanent faux lashes on? Well, you can still pamper your real ones with this lash formula! It’s filled with lash-nurturing essentials to make them grow stronger and longer, without damaging your expensive lash extensions.

Plus, it’s a great way to keep your lashes healthy while your extensions shed.

3. Pronexa Hairgenics Lavish Lash

If you’re an Amazon Prime obsessive, then you probably know about all of the beauty goodies hiding within each and every corner of the site, like this lash serum from Pronexa.

It uses peptides to enhance the look and feel of your lashes, and is cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, and all natural — but most importantly, it works! No wonder this serum has over 35,000 sparkling reviews on Amazon.

4. Milk Makeup KUSH Growhouse Lash + Brow Serum

Like everything else in Milk Makeup’s KUSH collection, this serum is infused with — you guessed it — CBD. But don’t think of this clean beauty formula as another weed-related gimmick: The CBD in this formula helps condition you lashes to create a fuller look, and plant peptides create a thicker appearance.

Bonus: You can also use this serum on your brows.

5. Shiseido Full Lash and Brow Serum

We’ve all heard of K-Beauty, but it’s time you started paying attention to Japanese beauty, otherwise known as “J-Beauty.”

Exhibit A: this lash and brow serum from Shiseido. It’s a best-seller all across Asia for a reason — because it seriously works. It’s packed with a special ingredient called arginine, an amino acid found in keratin (another haircare favorite) that strengthens and moisturizes hair while minimizing hair loss.

6. Vichy LiftActiv Serum 10 Eyes & Lashes

Fact: You don’t have to scour the department store or luxury beauty shop to get a great eyelash serum. This one from Vichy is under $50, and it works just like a charm. It not only works to strengthen your lashes, but it also helps smooth out wrinkles and illuminate your delicate eye area for a more youthful, brighter appearance.

7. LASHFOOD Phyto-Medic Eyelash Enhancer

Not interested in putting any animal by-products on your face? Yeah, me neither. That’s one of the many reasons why I slather this eyelash serum across my lids almost every night: It’s vegan, gluten-free, and only uses the best that nature has to offer in their “Phyto-Medic Complex” to strengthen and lengthen lashes.

I’ve been using this serum almost daily for over a year, and it’s helped my lashes repair from extreme picking episodes (trichotillomania is a real thing, guys) ever since.

8. LANCER Skincare Lash Serum Intense

If you’re all about luxury, then this pick is for you. It’s formulated with skincare goodies like pumpkin seed extract, biotin, and more to promote your eyelashes’ health and appearance.

9. HydroPeptide Lash Longer Fuller Lusher Eye Lash

Have sparse lashes and brows? First off, same. Second, grab this lash serum, which also works on eyebrows! It’s filled with nourishing ingredients like biotin, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and growth-inducing folic acid to give you the fullest, fluffiest lashes (and eyebrows!) of your life.

10. bareMinerals Strength & Length Serum-Infused Mascara

This isn’t your average mascara: It’s infused with a clean serum that conditions, strengthens, and fills lashes instantly and over time. This serum is derived by red clover to nourish your lashes with only Mother Nature’s best.

11. No7 Lash Impact Lash Serum

Don’t let this under-$20 pick fool you: For its price tag, it’s pretty top-notch. It’s formulated to give you longer, fuller, and darker lashes in as little as eight weeks. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic, so sensitive eyes can proceed without caution.

Read the full article

MSN Lifestyle posted “Break Up With Your Mascara, Because We Just Found These Top-Notch Eyelash Serums” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert commentary on eyelash care and how to maintain naturally longer, stronger lashes.

Long, luscious eyelashes: We all want them, and only a few of us were genetically blessed to effortlessly have them. Though many of us could (and should) feel good about their lashes in their naturally shorter form, there’s nothing wrong with boosting their look with a swipe of mascara or some false lashes.

But, if you truly want naturally longer, stronger lashes, then swapping the mascara tube for an eyelash serum sounds like the best move. According to Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, eyelash serums are a great way to help strengthen brittle lashes to make them look and feel their best.

“Eyelash serums work best on those with short, weak lashes,” Patel says. However, she notes that there are quite a few options out there for you to choose from.

“Latisse is the only FDA-approved prescription treatment for hypotrichosis,” she says. “The active ingredient is a prostaglandin called bimatoprost. It lengthens the growth cycle of eyelashes leading to longer, darker, and fuller lashes. Over the counter serums contain ingredients such as biotin, a B vitamin that helps lashes grow longer and thicker and stimulates the growth of additional eyelash follicles. Serums have lipids to condition the lashes as well. Some over the counter eyelash serums also have prostaglandin derivatives that work similar to the Rx serum.”

OK, that was pretty science-y, so putting it a little more simply: If you have more severe issues with eyelash hair loss, you’re going to want to see your doctor about prescription treatments — and if you’re looking to lightly pump up the volume, an over-the-counter option will do just the trick. But before you go DIY-ing your own lash serum, Patel notes that there are a few things you should stay away from.

“Avoid essential oils, as they can cause a contact dermatitis and harm the eye if it goes inside,” says Patel. “Also, avoid edible ingredients such as coconut oil or olive oil, as they can help grow bacteria, increasing the chance of sties and eye infections.”

So, now that you have the basic facts on eyelash serums, check out more info on our favorites below:

• Expert’s Choice: RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
• Safe for Eyelash Extensions: Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum
• Amazon Favorite: Pronexa Hairgenics Lavish Lash
• The CBD Treatment: Milk Makeup KUSH Growhouse Lash + Brow Serum
• The J-Beauty Favorite: Shiseido Full Lash and Brow Serum
• Best Drugstore Pick: Vichy LiftActiv Serum 10 Eyes & Lashes
• Vegan Formula: LASHFOOD Phyto-Medic Eyelash Enhancer
• Best Luxury Pick: LANCER Skincare Lash Serum Intense
• 2-in-1 Formula: HydroPeptide Lash Longer Fuller Lusher Eye Lash
• The Nourishing Mascara: bareMinerals Strength & Length Serum-Infused Mascara
• Best Budget Buy: No7 Lash Impact Lash Serum

Read the full article

Yahoo! posted “Break Up With Your Mascara, Because We Just Found These Top-Notch Eyelash Serums” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert commentary on the effectiveness of lash serums.

Long, luscious eyelashes: We all want them, and only a few of us were genetically blessed to effortlessly have them. Though many of us could (and should) feel good about their lashes in their naturally shorter form, there’s nothing wrong with boosting their look with a swipe of mascara or some false lashes.

But, if you truly want naturally longer, stronger lashes, then swapping the mascara tube for an eyelash serum sounds like the best move. According to Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, eyelash serums are a great way to help strengthen brittle lashes to make them look and feel their best.

“Eyelash serums work best on those with short, weak lashes,” Patel says. However, she notes that there are quite a few options out there for you to choose from.

“Latisse is the only FDA-approved prescription treatment for hypotrichosis,” she says. “The active ingredient is a prostaglandin called bimatoprost. It lengthens the growth cycle of eyelashes leading to longer, darker, and fuller lashes. Over the counter serums contain ingredients such as biotin, a B vitamin that helps lashes grow longer and thicker and stimulates the growth of additional eyelash follicles. Serums have lipids to condition the lashes as well. Some over the counter eyelash serums also have prostaglandin derivatives that work similar to the Rx serum.”

OK, that was pretty science-y, so putting it a little more simply: If you have more severe issues with eyelash hair loss, you’re going to want to see your doctor about prescription treatments — and if you’re looking to lightly pump up the volume, an over-the-counter option will do just the trick. But before you go DIY-ing your own lash serum, Patel notes that there are a few things you should stay away from.

“Avoid essential oils, as they can cause a contact dermatitis and harm the eye if it goes inside,” says Patel. “Also, avoid edible ingredients such as coconut oil or olive oil, as they can help grow bacteria, increasing the chance of sties and eye infections.”

So, now that you have the basic facts on eyelash serums, check out more info on our favorites below:

1. RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner

When it comes to a tried and true eyelash serum, Patel recommends Revitalash’s signature serum. This lash conditioner is formulated to address the visible signs of eyelash aging (yep, that’s a thing) from chemical and environmental stressors. The results: healthier-looking, more luxurious lashes.

2. Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum

Already have some semi-permanent faux lashes on? Well, you can still pamper your real ones with this lash formula! It’s filled with lash-nurturing essentials to make them grow stronger and longer, without damaging your expensive lash extensions.

Plus, it’s a great way to keep your lashes healthy while your extensions shed.

3. Pronexa Hairgenics Lavish Lash

If you’re an Amazon Prime obsessive, then you probably know about all of the beauty goodies hiding within each and every corner of the site, like this lash serum from Pronexa.

It uses peptides to enhance the look and feel of your lashes, and is cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, and all natural — but most importantly, it works! No wonder this serum has over 35,000 sparkling reviews on Amazon.

4. Milk Makeup KUSH Growhouse Lash + Brow Serum

Like everything else in Milk Makeup’s KUSH collection, this serum is infused with — you guessed it — CBD. But don’t think of this clean beauty formula as another weed-related gimmick: The CBD in this formula helps condition you lashes to create a fuller look, and plant peptides create a thicker appearance.

Bonus: You can also use this serum on your brows.

5. Shiseido Full Lash and Brow Serum

We’ve all heard of K-Beauty, but it’s time you started paying attention to Japanese beauty, otherwise known as “J-Beauty.”

Exhibit A: this lash and brow serum from Shiseido. It’s a best-seller all across Asia for a reason — because it seriously works. It’s packed with a special ingredient called arginine, an amino acid found in keratin (another haircare favorite) that strengthens and moisturizes hair while minimizing hair loss.

6. Vichy LiftActiv Serum 10 Eyes & Lashes

Fact: You don’t have to scour the department store or luxury beauty shop to get a great eyelash serum. This one from Vichy is under $50, and it works just like a charm. It not only works to strengthen your lashes, but it also helps smooth out wrinkles and illuminate your delicate eye area for a more youthful, brighter appearance.

7. LASHFOOD Phyto-Medic Eyelash Enhancer

Not interested in putting any animal by-products on your face? Yeah, me neither. That’s one of the many reasons why I slather this eyelash serum across my lids almost every night: It’s vegan, gluten-free, and only uses the best that nature has to offer in their “Phyto-Medic Complex” to strengthen and lengthen lashes.

I’ve been using this serum almost daily for over a year, and it’s helped my lashes repair from extreme picking episodes (trichotillomania is a real thing, guys) ever since.

8. LANCER Skincare Lash Serum Intense

If you’re all about luxury, then this pick is for you. It’s formulated with skincare goodies like pumpkin seed extract, biotin, and more to promote your eyelashes’ health and appearance.

9. HydroPeptide Lash Longer Fuller Lusher Eye Lash

Have sparse lashes and brows? First off, same. Second, grab this lash serum, which also works on eyebrows! It’s filled with nourishing ingredients like biotin, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and growth-inducing folic acid to give you the fullest, fluffiest lashes (and eyebrows!) of your life.

10. bareMinerals Strength & Length Serum-Infused Mascara

This isn’t your average mascara: It’s infused with a clean serum that conditions, strengthens, and fills lashes instantly and over time. This serum is derived by red clover to nourish your lashes with only Mother Nature’s best.

11. No7 Lash Impact Lash Serum

Don’t let this under-$20 pick fool you: For its price tag, it’s pretty top-notch. It’s formulated to give you longer, fuller, and darker lashes in as little as eight weeks. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic, so sensitive eyes can proceed without caution.

Read the full article

Beauty Independent posted “What Beauty Entrepreneurs Want The Next President To Do” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s commentary on what she hopes the next President will do for regulation within the beauty industry.

Late Tuesday night, the winner of a close presidential election in the United States wasn’t determined. While former Vice President Joe Biden had captured 227 electoral votes to President Donald Trump’s 213, according to The New York Times, a candidate must secure 270 electoral votes to take the presidency. No matter the winner, beauty entrepreneurs have a list of demands they’d like him to address. To learn about their demands, we asked 21 of them the following question prior to the election: What do you want the next president to do to help your company and the beauty industry more generally? Here’s what they hope either Trump or Biden will get done in office to foster the business of beauty.

PURVISHA PATEL

Dermatologist and Founder, Visha Skincare
In true capitalistic form, the beauty industry is bombarded with brands old and new with promises, scare tactics and false advertising to increase their sales. I would ask for increased regulation on verbiage used to the public so that claims of results come with scientific data and studies. The terms “natural” and “clean,” for example, are not regulated and misused to mislead consumers. I would ask for advertising regulation so as not to deceive consumers. There should be disclosed COI (conflict of interest) when celebrities and influencers recommend products that is clear to the public as they are getting paid to advertise.

Read the full article

Skincare.com posted “Why Your Serum Is Pilling — And How to Fix It” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert insights on what skincare pilling is, how to fix it and prevent it.

If you’ve ever gone through your skin-care routine only to feel little flakes or gunk on top of your skin at the end, then it’s likely your products are pilling. It can happen to the best of us, and while it’s annoying, it can be fixed with a little reorganization or a few product swaps. To find out what causes pilling in the first place and how to prevent it from happening, keep reading.

What Is pilling?

“Pilling happens when you’re rubbing a skin-care product on the skin and it never quite soaks in,” says board-certified dermatologist and Visha Skincare founder Purvisha Patel, MD. The result is product collecting on the surface that feels like little flakes or balls instead of being fully absorbed into the skin.

What Causes Pilling?

In some cases, pilling happens when a product that is too thick is placed on top of an occlusive barrier, which seals skin and prevents product from getting in. Pilling can also occur when too many products are being used at the same time or in the wrong order. Certain ingredients, like silicones, may also be to blame.

How to Prevent Pilling

You can avoid pilling altogether by using fewer products in your routine or choosing products with more active ingredients to get maximum results without layering. Dr. Patel recommends the Visha Skincare Advanced Correcting Serum with Illuminotex, which is designed to address hyperpigmentation while also minimizing the appearance of large pores. Looking for something a little more budget-friendly? Try the La Roche-Posay Mela-D Pigment Control Glycolic Acid Serum. It’s formulated with 10% glycolic acid, kojic acid and micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid to help reduce the look of discoloration and improve skin radiance.

If you can’t let go of your ten-step-routine, Dr. Patel recommends applying products from thinnest consistency to thickest, starting with water-based serums and working your way up to thicker creams and oils. This will ensure your serum is as close to your bare skin so that it will fully absorb.

If you happen to apply your skin care in the wrong order or accidentally layer in an occlusive product before your serum, Dr. Patel recommends washing it all off and starting from the beginning. Also note that products can’t penetrate dirty skin (think dirt, sweat, oil and makeup), so it’s important to start with a cleansed canvas before applying any other layers.

Read the full article

Well + Good posted “3 Things You Should Never Put On Oily Skin, According to Dermatologists” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert commentary on how you know if you have oily skin, how your skin can react if you have oily skin and what to avoid.

When your skin is oily, you know it: You tend to get an afternoon sheen without even trying and you might be more likely to get a rouge breakout here or there. Those who have this skin type are often advised to reach for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid. As for the rest of your regimen? A dermatologist spills on what a good skin routine for oily skin should not include.

If you’re not sure whether or not you fall into this category, here’s a refresher: Shiny skin means that the oil glands of your skin are overactive. “You will know if you have oily skin if you get shiny soon after washing your face and tend to break out easily,” says Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare. “This happens when the sebaceous glands overproduce.”

It’s important to know your skin type when crafting your beauty routine because certain ingredients work well with some skin types, while others can lead to not-so-ideal reactions (think breakouts, irritation, or redness). “If you have oily skin and use mild products, then the skin will still be oily and prone to breakouts,” says Dr. Patel. Your best bet is to opt for a skin-care regimen that consists of a gentle cleanser, a chemical exfoliant, retinol, and a light moisturizer. “Retinol and vitamin A derivatives help to shrink pores, exfoliate the skin, and decrease oil production,” she says. “Oily skin generally will need a lighter moisturizer such as a gel or lotion to prevent the clogging of pores as well as acne.” Then, however you stock your cabinet, be sure to avoid the following skin-care categories.

1. Foaming cleansers

Foaming cleansers can be satisfying when swiping grime off of your skin, but derms recommend avoiding these if your skin is on the oily side. “Beware of foaming face wash, because although they will make your skin feel squeaky clean, they can be over-stripping your skin,” says Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. “This can cause it to overcompensate and produce more oils.” Reach for a cream or gel-based cleanser for the job instead. Try something like the BYBI Beauty Crystal Clear Facial Cleansing Gel ($30).

2. Harsh exfoliants

Exfoliation is an important step in anyone’s skin-care routine, but with oily skin types, doing this with the wrong ingredients can lead to the opposite effect. “Harsh exfoliants and toners should be avoided because they can cause compensatory overproduction of oil,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. To get rid of dead skin cell build-up, look for gentle, fruit-based acids. “Exfoliating cleansers that contain fruit acids, such as glycolic, and salicylic acid encourage the skin to exfoliate, and are very effective to those with acne-prone or oily skin,” says Dr. Patel, who notes that these help to open up pores and dry oil production. We love to use the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner ($34) after cleansing to slough off any pore-clogging debris.

3. Occlusives

Occlusive ingredients can be tricky with any skin type but are particularly a bad idea for those with oily skin. This is an umbrella term for any ingredient that forms a layer on your skin. Dr. Idriss points to greasy ointments (like petroleum jelly) and coconut oil as two key ones to avoid. “Greasy ointments are a recipe for disaster as they may clog your pores and induce a massive breakout,” she says, adding that coconut oil has been proven to be comedogenic (aka it clogs pores). Dr. Gohara points to certain face oils and silicones (like dimethicone, which is in a lot of skin-care products) as other examples. And, any time you see the word “butter” on an ingredients list, stay away. “If you use too thick of an emollient or an occlusive such as cocoa butter or shea butter, you may notice that you’re breaking out more or are too greasy,” says Dr. Patel. Stick with lightweight moisturizers (gels are great) that provide hydration without causing breakouts, like the EltaMD Skin Recovery Light Moisturizer ($39).

Read the full article

The Everygirl posted “Did Your Skin Just Become So Dry, or Are You Normal?” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert commentary on why skin changes with the seasons, and how best to deal with the added dryness.

Dr. Patel recommends “applying after taking a shower or bath when the skin is still damp because it’ll help prevent all of that water loss and keep the skin supple and moist.”

After a summer of fun in the sun, I suddenly awoke a few weeks ago to the biggest surprise of my life: every ounce of moisture had been plucked from my face, and I was, once again, a dry-skin sufferer. It seemed like out of nowhere, my skincare routine was entirely wrong for my skin type, as my once oily face needed as much hyaluronic acid, thick creams, and moisturizing ingredients as it could get. And I refuse to believe I’m the only one.

We all know by now that the seasons changing can affect our skin big time, but until 2020, I never quite experienced it doing so practically overnight. Are you suddenly dealing with drier-than-normal skin this fall and looking for a quick fix (and maybe an explanation)?! We tapped the experts.

Why is my skin changing already? It was like 80 degrees last week!

Ashley Powers, Education Director and Medical Aesthetician at SpaDerma in Chicago, IL, explained that your skin can change as soon as the weather starts changing. For summer, that usually comes with the first days of high humidity. But for fall and winter, “that first crisp in the air when we start to see ~50° temperatures” might do the trick.

I normally have oily skin, but now I feel dry. Why?

I couldn’t get enough powder this summer, so I didn’t expect my skin to really change with the weather this year. However, Dr. Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, said that while the change in the weather makes a difference, so do our habits. “Skin in summer is “oily” not just due to sebum, but also stays moist from sweat and humidity,” Dr. Patel said. “When the weather gets cooler, we tend to take longer and hotter showers. The hot water evaporates easier from the skin, and there is no sweat or humidity in the air to help trap the moisture in. When the water evaporates faster, then the skin appears dry and tight.”

We start changing up our habits and daily routines for the fall and winter, and those add up to affecting our skin as well. Dr. Patel suggested using a moisturizer like Visha Skincare RejuVenating Moisturizer or Face 2 Feet Body Balm after taking a shower or bath when the skin is still damp because it’ll help prevent all of that water loss and keep the skin supple and moist. She also recommended upping your water intake, especially to make up for all those pumpkin spice lattes we’ve been drinking.

How does the skin usually change?

Dryness might be about more than patches of dry skin or itchiness; there’s a lot that can happen when your skin lacks moisture. “With any change in [the] weather, you may notice more dryness or tightness, a bit of redness or flaking, or an increase in oil production,” Powers said. So if you’re noticing your skin feels dry after you get out of the shower, or you’re randomly feeling a little more oily than normal, you might be dealing with a bout of dry skin after all.

 

If I have dry skin, how am I supposed to deal with EXTRA dryness?

Going from dry to extra or even ultra-dry is no fun. When you already feel like you can’t get enough moisture in your skin and it somehow comes back at you with flakes, redness, and irritation, throwing in the towel and saying “peace” to your skincare routine and slathering your face with straight Vaseline is tempting.

Those with dry skin might have actually experienced a little relief this summer with the humidity levels, but their skin is lacking that now and responding accordingly. Dr. Patel recommended increasing the thickness of your moisturizer—such as opting for a cream instead of a lotion—and reducing how often and how much you’re using exfoliating and dry ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinol. You can also add in an oil cleanser which will moisturize your skin while it cleanses and removes makeup as well as an extra moisturizing step, like a facial oil or hydrating toner or essence.

Should I change my skincare routine?

“With the change in season, it’s important to change your products to what is best suited for your skin type at the moment,” Powers said. “A common phrase I say in the treatment room is to listen to your skin. If it is breaking out, then you may need to spot treat those breakouts; if it’s dry, add more moisture, etc.” If you’re noticing that your skin is changing, then the routine you were previously using might need some tweaks. You don’t need to overhaul every step, but it might be a good idea to change up the ingredients you’re doing.

Powers is a dry-skin sufferer as well, and she explained that she changes up her routine quite a bit when the seasons change. She switches from a gentle cleanser to something more hydrating, like PCA Skin Creamy Cleanser, and adds a hyaluronic acid serum both morning and night. She also swears by PCA Skin’s Hydrate Mask; she said when applied 2-3 times a week, it’s a “lifesaver” during the harsh Chicago winters.

If you love exfoliating acids like glycolic, lactic, and even retinol, don’t worry—you don’t have to forgo those ingredients entirely just because your skin is dry. In fact, Powers even recommends it. “When you have dry skin, you have dead skin cells building on top of one another (sorry for that visual) which causes dullness, flaking, and potentially congestion,” Powers said. “By gently exfoliating that dead, dry skin off, your skin will now be able to fully accept all the serums and moisturizers you are about to put on.” She suggested exfoliating with an acid like glycolic acid 2-3 times a week, depending on how sensitive your skin is. Dr. Patel loves ascorbic acid (AKA vitamin C), azelaic acid, and lactic acid for those with dry, sensitive skin looking to get a little bit of exfoliation.

Powers also recommended adding hyaluronic acid to your routine, saying that everyone can benefit from a little bit of it in their routine. “Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in our body, so once you apply, your skin knows exactly what to do with it,” Powers said. However, our body stops naturally producing it once we turn 25, and half of what we already have breaks down in our body by 50. “This is why as we age, we get a little drier and we lose that plump and smoothness to our skin,” Powers said.

If you love your retinoid, the key to making it work with your dry skin is taking it slow, not applying it every day, and always finishing it with a really occlusive, hydrating moisturizer that will lock in the moisture. Peeling and dryness are often synonymous with retinol, but taking a few extra steps to hydrate (like using hyaluronic acid) can make all the difference. You can even apply moisturizer before and after retinol to dilute the product and keep your skin as moisturized as possible.

Is there anything else I can do? I’m dyin’ here.

You probably know by now that the health of your skin is largely based on the health of your body. Both Dr. Patel and Powers recommended keeping hydrated from the inside out by drinking enough water every day (start with at least six glasses a day and go from there) and not skimping on your sunscreen (imagine sun damage on top of all that dryness… yikes). Dr. Patel also recommended getting enough sleep and taking a multivitamin and probiotic daily.

If you’re able to get skin treatments, Powers said starting a chemical peel regimen is a good idea regardless of skin type. “I love peels so much because they are one of the only things we do that can correct multiple concerns in one treatment,” Powers said. “Whether you’re dry, acne-prone, or concerned with premature aging, there is a peel out there for you. Personally, I feel everyone should be on a chemical peel regimen as they are the best way to keep your skin healthy and strong.” If your skin is too sensitive or you’re not ready for the downtime, she recommended opting for a hydrafacial. On the flipside, if you want something a little more intense, microneedling can rehydrate, smooth, and brighten skin.

Powers highlighted the power of talking to a professional too. “There is so much misinformation out there about what people should use on their skin and what they shouldn’t, and there is no way to know what your skin needs until it has been properly assessed by a licensed aesthetician,” Powers said. “When someone comes in to see me for the first time, I always say, ‘Talk to me. What brings you in today?’… I find the best results happen when the client and I work together towards their goal.” Skincare isn’t about what you see influencers and celebrities using most of the time; it’s really about figuring out what is right for your specific skin, and that can often take time. If you’re struggling with dryness or any change in skin type this year, seeking the advice of an aesthetician or dermatologist is a good way to get your concerns voiced and tailor a routine for you.

Read the full article

Zoe Report posted The Best Lip Masks On The Market To Keep Your Lips Hydrated During Colder Months” and features Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel‘s expert insights about how to keep your lips hydrated and the best lip masks to include with you winter skin care routine.

You know the feeling: After applying your trusty lip balm a minimum of 16 times in 30 seconds, your lips are still uncomfortably dry. Add a face mask into the mix, and you’re left with lips as parched as the house plant you’ve been desperately trying to keep alive. While a balm will deliver some immediate relief, the cold months call for something more hydrating: a lip mask. Incorporate one (or a few) of the best lip masks into your winter skin care routine for a plump, smooth pout.

There are a few reasons why you should opt for a lip mask when suffering from dehydrated lips. “A lip balm is a generally a product that provides temporary hydration or soothing to the lips and is cosmetically acceptable to be worn in public, whereas a mask has actives that will produce deeper, more long lasting benefits,” Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD, a Miami-based board certified dermatologist, tells TZR. “A lip mask usually has a thicker, more opaque appearance or texture.” And because masks are meant to be left on the lips while you’re not eating or chatting, most of the product won’t rub off, and in turn the actives penetrate deeply into the skin.

And now with the daily use of face masks, Dr. Purvisha Patel, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, is receiving a slew of inquiries on how to address dry lips. “Part of the issue is that people who are mouth breathers are drying out their lips more with the increased air flow in and out of the mouth with the face mask on,” Dr. Patel says. “Another reason is people who have to wear the face masks for long periods of time may not be staying hydrated or drinking enough water and [therefore] getting more dry skin and lips.” This is where a lip mask comes into play. When you’re in search of a powerful mask, Dr. Patel says to look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and propylene glycol, which are humectants that quickly work in lip masks.

Ahead, find eight lip masks to stock your shelves and night stand with.

We only include products that have been independently selected by The Zoe Report’s editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Read the full article