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The Skinthusiast
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Month: December 2019

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Gift Guide: My 2019 Wish List

on December 8, 2019
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For my next gift guide I thought it would be fun to tell you exactly what I’M wishing for this…

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My Self Tanning Tips and Favorite Products

on December 5, 2019
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As a Derm PA you can imagine I’m pretty happy that the emphasis is almost completely on “fake baking” these…

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  • Retinoids- The Gold Standard for Anti-Aging
  • Gift Guide: My 2019 Wish List
  • My Self Tanning Tips and Favorite Products
  • 2019 Gift Guide for the Wellness Lover
  • Splurge-Worthy Skin Care Gift Guide

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    the_skinthusiast
    Instagram post 2223589092359515153_4518084886 Drugstore skin care: I am as much a fan as anyone of saving money… While some skin care is absolutely worth the splurge for medical grade (think Vitamin C serums, most retinoids, active treatment serums) there is certainly room for drugstore products as well! One of my recent Q&A questions was for more drugstore skin care finds. So, I’m going to break down a few drugstore products that I love, use personally, and recommend to patients! @biodermausa Sensibio Micellar Water and wipes: I use one of these every single day to remove my sunscreen before cleansing. If you’ve followed me for awhile it’s NO secret how much I love these products. They are a great price point and can be found at @walgreens ! Head to my stories for a link on how micellar water works! @neutrogena Rapid Clear Spot Gel: this treatment is 10% benzoyl peroxide to shrink your pimple and decrease redness. I personally use this whenever a pimple arises and think it’s a great option. Again this is a spot treatment and is not sufficient to treat acne fully or to prevent new breakouts from forming. La Roche Posay Effaclar Mat: This is actually my moisturizer of choice for oily skin types and one I recommend to my oily patients. @aveenous Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin SPF 50 for face: I always keep one of these in my car, in my bag and at work. I wear this SPF anytime I’ll be in the sun for a prolonged period of time or when I go outdoor running or cycling. It does give a little white cast at first but absorbs quickly for me. But ultimately I prefer to look a little ghostly and know that my skin is protected. CeraVe SA cleanser: Although not my first choice in clinic, if someone is adamant on a drugstore cleanser for acne-prone skin, this is my recommendation. I actually use a little bit of this from time to time on my t-zone if I’m feeling clogged. It contains salicylic acid (Can actually get into the pore and help remove oil and dirt) and isn’t too drying. Neutrogena Healthy Skin Makeup: I don’t wear foundation often but I have a few in my arsenal for when I do. This is the only one, however, that can be found at a drugstore. It goes on smoothly, doesn’t clog pores, and doesn’t feel heavy.
    Instagram post 2222678244938115367_4518084886 You’ve probably seen in my stories that I have been trying out a new probitotic. As with anything new I wanted to give it a full 4-6 weeks before I made a dedicated post about it! (You should know this bottle was gifted to me to try but I am getting no compensation for this review!) As I’ve said before, our gut microbiome is linked to many other organ systems including our skin. Gut dysbiosis has been linked to conditions like acne and rosacea. I have struggled with digestive issues for most of my life so I was personally invested in finding a great probiotic! The Pros: @seed ‘s Daily Synbiotic (Probiotic plus a prebiotic) is vegan and gluten-free with over 50 billion CFU and no need for refrigeration. There is a HEAVY emphasis on research and evidence-based strains which I appreciate. The double-walled capsule prevents breakdown in the stomach and the chlorophyllin exterior capsule prevents light degradation. With over 20 clinical studies including double-blind, placebo controlled studies, I feel confident that I’m getting the best. My experience: In only a couple of days I noticed less bloating, more regular BMs, and a bit more energy. I didn’t notice any nausea but I did take with food the first few days just until I got used to it. It is a subscription service, which I know some may not love, BUT it keeps you accountable and helps you avoid any lag. I do appreciate that you can skip or cancel at any time (I tend to get nervous starting any subscriptions that don’t have this option.) So there you have it! My complete review of Seed probiotic. You better bet I’m going to continue to take them and I’m happy to have a specific, heavily researched probiotic that I can comfortably recommend!
    Instagram post 2222299998148941874_4518084886 If you saw my stories yesterday you know I received my first @dailylook box in the mail this week! 👌🏽 When I was younger I LOVED to shop. As I’ve gotten older I still love everything style but honestly dread going to the mall and waiting in busy lines. When I heard about @dailylook I knew I had to give it a try. I took the style quiz and a professional stylist sent me 3 pieces curated just for me. I got to try the clothes on in the comfort of my own bedroom (bye-bye cruel dressing room lighting 🙅🏻‍♀️) and simply return the items I don’t want to keep. OH and it’s free shipping AND returns. You get a chance to preview your picks before they’re shipped in case you want to switch a couple out and you can customize your frequency of shipment if you don’t want a box every single month. Spoiler alert: YOU WILL! There’s nothing to lose and a stylish new wardrobe to gain. Check out my stories for a link to your style quiz and use code AMY20 for $20 off your first box!! 🎉
    Instagram post 2220472796109343277_4518084886 Absolutely love that this platform allows me to connect with other, like-minded individuals. I have met so many amazing people here in the IG community. I remember a time when I was embarrassed to say I was meeting up with people I met on IG in real life. Now my hubby knows... “ I’m going to see my IG friends” 😂 love you all 😘😘
    Instagram post 2219828702135721344_4518084886 @Dailyharvest for the WIN 🙌🏽 I don’t know where I would be in my health journey without them... probably stopping at Starbucks for breakfast way too many days of the week... I love these tasty shakes because they are so incredibly easy. I keep my freezer stocked with them so I’m never without a health option. DH makes it super easy to keep my resolution to be a healthier, happier me. P.S did you know I have a story highlight specifically dedicated to discount codes? Use code “theskinthusiast” for a discount on your first box of Daily Harvest and check out the highlight for even more!
    Instagram post 2219182898421388971_4518084886 I heard something on a podcast this week... “you either win or you learn” and I loved the sentiment. So many times when things don’t go our way we see it as a failure. When in reality it’s a redirection. How many times have you looked back and thought “wow, if that not so great thing wouldn’t have happened 5 years ago, I would never be here right now!”? It may seem like a loss at the time, but as long as you take something constructive away from the experience and make yourself just a little better because of it, it’s a win in my book.
    Instagram post 2218568548874576728_4518084886 I often get asked by my patients “which neurotoxin should I use”?! The short answer is, I love them all equally. Here @baumanncosmetic we carry all the approved neurotoxins and you can be confident that, whichever we choose together, you are getting an exceptional product with exceptional expertise. So, let’s talk about one of my new favorites…. Jeuveau (prabotulinumtoxinA) is the newest neuromodulator on the market. Here I am treating this beauty’s pesky 11 and forehead lines. Like with the others, the process for Jeuveau injection is quick and painless with minimal to no downtime. Right now we have an amazing special: $75 off your treatment with Jeuveau with only a limited number of vouchers left! DM me to make your appointment today before they’re gone!
    Instagram post 2216945097868878458_4518084886 At Pilates this morning @drskinguru and I were talking about how we love to use our antibacterial toner to clean our mats instead of harsh cleaning products. Not only do I spray this on my yoga mat, but I spritz my face before and after a workout AND spray under my arms to prevent body odor. This stuff does it all 😂
    Instagram post 2215040503563772580_4518084886 Let’s talk about masking. I’m a lover of cozy rituals so a decadent face mask and a cup of tea is my idea of a great night. But are they necessary? I’m a firm believer that you can get everything your skin needs and more with the right daily skin care regimen. The appropriate cleansers, serums, moisturizers and treatment steps for your skin type are all you need to get a glowing complexion most of the time. However, I know the draw of a nice face mask. So, if you’re going to mask make sure that you pick one appropriate for your skin type. Dry and sensitive types should stay away from exfoliating masks as they can be too abrasive. Instead opt for something creamy and hydrating. Oily and acne prone types: look for masks with AHAs/BHAs and if you’re a resistant type you can likely handle a mask with physical exfoliation. What are you favorite face masks?
    Instagram post 2213238317083126551_4518084886 Ill be honest... I haven’t sat down to actually write down any goals or resolutions for 2020. It’s not because I am one of those people who “hates resolutions”. Frankly, I just haven’t had the time or energy. So, this year... the plan is to just keep moving forward. Keep pushing. Keep learning. Keep trying. Keep risking. Keep loving. Keep growing. You know? Like 2019, but make it better ✨
    Instagram post 2212145225139711664_4518084886 I mentioned in my stories today that I’ve been in a bit of a funk the last few weeks for a couple of reasons. I’ve never been good at compartmentalizing when something is worrying me so I haven’t been as active on here or in life 😂... After spending most of the day unpacking, cleaning, and trying to get things in order I sat down to relax and listen to my audiobook. I had been debating getting a workout in all day but just couldn’t make myself do it. Then after watching some boss babes making it happen on insta stories, I thought, I cannot let the first day of this decade go by without doing something to better myself. So, without even thinking twice I hopped up and put my running shoes on. It felt so nice to get outside and get my heart rate up. So many times Instagram gets a bad rap for the comparison game but sometimes we need to see other awesome people doing awesome things to give us the pep we needed 👏🏼
    Instagram post 2211429144670325053_4518084886 Wishing you all health, happiness and good fortune in 2020! Here’s to the new decade 🥂
    Instagram post 2207644604172829106_4518084886 Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy holiday season and 2020. 😘😘
    Instagram post 2204594005990539698_4518084886 Let’s talk about social media and skincare... Acne in particular. I get countless DMs and questions about curing acne. Firstly, I am ALWAYS happy to answer any questions and love hearing from you guys. But, I see time and time again people searching for the answer to their acne on social media. We are bombarded with information from lifestyle and skincare blogs as to what might finally kick stubborn acne to the curb. Everyone has their own opinion, and frankly sometimes their own agenda. But it’s important to keep in mind that one product or one lifestyle change will not cure your acne. Clearing up your skin takes time, dedication, and most importantly the right topicals and potentially oral medications. It may require changes in your diet and lifestyle habits. It is a process and should be overseen by a medical professional qualified and knowledgable about the various types and causes of adolescent and adult acne. It’s crucial to seek a licensed Dermatology Provider if you’ve been struggling with getting control of your skin. It breaks my heart when I meet new patients who have spent so much time, money, and hope investing in things they see on the internet. Just because a new skin care line cleared up your favorite blogger’s skin doesn’t mean it’s going to work for you.
    Instagram post 2203877087323190472_4518084886 The Holidays can be an indulgent time for a lot of people. Each year I spend a lot of time with my large family eating tons of good Greek food, lots of dessert and of course some bubbly. So, I wanted to talk about a few things I do to try to mitigate these things this time of year. 1. Keep Moving. When I’m home in Ohio I try to walk with my dad every morning. He walks around 3-4 miles everyday and starting my morning early getting my body moving always makes me feel better. In addition, I try to find @classpass classes near me when traveling. It’s a great way to try new studios and get a little workout in. 2. Drink lots of water. When I’m out of my usual routine and element it’s easy for me to forget to drink enough water. So I try to be mindful that I’m getting adequate amounts of H2O. 3. Intermittent Fasting. Many of you may know that I have been intermittent fasting for some time now. I usually don’t eat until around noon. I try to maintain this during the Holidays especially because I know more indulgent meals are likely coming later in the day. 4. Get in the Greens. I’m lucky that I actually love my greens so I try to get them in smoothie form when I can to make sure I’m at least getting some healthy fiber in. 5. Supplements and Probiotics. I always remember to pack my daily supplements and probiotics to try to keep my gut as happy as possible. Luckily @mybinto and @seed make it super easy to travel with mine! 6. Enjoy Yourself. It’s easy to stress out about your lifestyle getting derailed. But, that defeats one of the most important reasons for the Holidays. Relax and enjoy yourself and the precious time with your family.
    Instagram post 2203365086855550600_4518084886 When I mentioned that I don’t do gel manicures anymore I got a few questions about the longevity of my regular mani. While yes it doesn’t last as long as gel I can still get at least a full week out of it. Some things I do to make my mani last: 1. Wash my hair before my mani. Um what does that have to do with my nail appointment? Well washing my hair always does a number on my mani so if I have freshly clean hair, that buys me a few days before I have to wash again. 2. Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes. I wasn’t doing this until recently. Idk why but my brain had just associated dish gloves to 50s housewives but turns out they’re actually very useful. Who knew. 3. Pick a light color when possible. This one is easy for me because I love neutrals so much. Having a light polish makes small chips MUCH less noticeable. 4. Avoid applying body oils. I find that oils always make my mani lift so I try to avoid applying any body oils. What are your tips for extending the life of your mani?
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