Skin Quiz

Do you suffer from constant breakouts and that feeling of unbalanced skin? Acne occurs when your skin’s tiny holes called pores become blocked by too much oil being produced by your follicles or a buildup of bacteria, dead skin cells, and dirt. This affects the normal lubrication process of the skin and when this happens repeatedly it results in the development of a pimple or “zit” (we like to call those imperfections). When those imperfections become inflammatory lesions, you may have acne. There are two types of acne. Noninflammatory acne is characterized by clogged pores that appear as blackheads or whiteheads. It’s the mildest type. Then there is the inflammatory acne where the lesions tend to be red and robust and can range from papules and pustules to the more severe nodules and cysts that tend to be painful.

Do you feel your skin is blotchy, dry, dehydrated and lifeless? Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition that affects people of all skin types. It occurs when the skin produces more melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. This can make spots or patches of skin appear darker than surrounding areas. Sun exposure, picking the skin and aging are the most common reasons for hyperpigmentation in the facial area. Bring out your skin’s luminosity through a uniformed pigmentation targeting dark spots while refining the appearance of your pores resulting in glowing, rejuvenated, hydrated skin.

Do you feel your skin is starting to show some signs of aging, such as deep fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations? Perhaps it is not as firm as back in the day? Aging is a normal physical process that happens with time, but factors such as sun exposure, bad eating habits, smoking as well as sugar and alcohol consumption can accelerate its effects. Our skin has two fundamental layers. The outer barrier is the epidermis that protects us from environmental aggressions such as bacteria and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The second layer is the dermis which is rich in collagens and other proteins responsible for preserving our skin’s strength and elasticity. Both layers are exposed to many damaging factors throughout our lives and with time the harm is irreversible. To optimize the appearance of our skin it is essential to select the right combination of products.

Do you feel your skin is just “normal” but feels a bit thirsty in the winter, when showering with hot water, being too long in the pool or in an air-conditioned room? Normal to dry skins have few to no blemishes and reflect an even tone and texture. Pores tend to be small and decongested with a natural equilibrium of sebum production. However, when exposed to extreme temperatures or the use of harsh chemicals it can become tight, itchy and even ashy. Maintain the healthy and balanced glow of your skin by implementing a routine that will preserve its balance while providing moisture with formulations that will help stimulate circulation, remove minor impurities and correct fluctuations.

Does your skin feel or look oily in some areas, especially in the T-Zone, but dry or dull in others, such as the cheeks or chin? Oily skin is typically a hereditary trait that is caused by overactive sebaceous glands resulting in a greasy-looking complexion. In our experience with countless patients, we’ve learned that this skin type requires a combination of blemish-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid, purifying therapeutic tea tree and lavender as well as sebum regulating components such as sulfur and tomato extracts to combat the bacteria that contribute to blemishes and blocked pores while pH-balancing out the non-oily areas.

Do you feel your skin is extremely sensitive, itchy or suffer from ruddiness, be it from increased sun exposure, stress, lifestyle, allergies and/or environmental factors? Sensitive skin is caused by a weaker or thinner lipid barrier. The purpose of the lipid barrier is to lock in hydration and to protect the skin from damaging agents such as UV rays, wind, heat, and harsh chemicals. People with sensitive skin are more exposed to irritants which penetrate the skin and cause inflammation. Additionally, a weak and thin lipid barrier makes it easier for moisture to escape which results in dryness, another characteristic of sensitive skin. Conditions such as Rosacea and Psoriasis, often resulting in redness of the face or that burning sensation of the skin, can take a toll on your inner peace. Treating sensitive skin typically involves identifying and eliminating any triggers.