How Do you Handle Large Pores?

One of the common skin care goals that clients would like to work on and improve for their skin is to work on large pores. Besides anti-aging, the number #1 request of what clients would like to change about their skin is pore size. The request to shrink pores is one that many of us wish and desire. And if I were a genie, I'd grant you that wish. The truth is that your pore size is genetic. The larger pore sizes are down the middle of the face in the t zone area. There is nothing that you can do to shrink pores. However, there is much to be done to make the pore size appear smaller! Are you game? 

The best way to minimize the pore size is by cleansing thoroughly and exfoliating regularly. I've also added my bonus tools that work well in helping my skin stay clear and healthy!

When you are cleansing your skin, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Most people cleanse once, but if you are a heavy makeup wearer, you suffer from acne, or you are washing right after a sweaty workout, it may be appropriate to cleanse twice. You can use the same cleanser, or you can use two different cleansers. The later option could look like having a milk or oil cleanser and then a foaming cleanser after. Or doing a gel cleanser followed by a deep cleansing solution. Always massage the skin gently and remove the cleansers with tepid water followed by a makeup or washcloth. This technique of wiping with a cloth after you've rinsed the skin can be compared to cleaning your kitchen floor. You wouldn't just throw down the cleanser and water on the floor, right? You definitely need a mop too to go back and forth and maybe even scrub just a little! Experiment with different combinations to see what works for you and your skin! As you cleanse efficiently with the right cleansers, you will notice your pores looking healthier and tighter.

Exfoliating on a regular basis will definitely help minimize the appearance of pores. There are different types of exfoliation and everyone has their preference. If you choose to do mechanical exfoliation, make sure that you are not using the apricot scrubs or one that is harsh, as the facial skin is very delicate.  Follow the recommendations of the product that you use. In general two to three times a week is adequate to helping the skin flush out the debris that get trapped inside of the pores. If the debris stay inside the pore, the will appear bigger.

You could also use tools in your cleansing and exfoliating steps if you'd like. Two of my favorite are the My Skin Buddy and well as the Supracor Spa Cell. The My Skin Buddy uses four different technologies in one light weight device. LED light therapy uses different wavelengths for different concerns for the skin - red helps slow the aging process, blue kills the p bacteria present with acne, green soothes and calms the skin. Ion care which means that the positivitely charged ions attract and pull out the impurities of the skin and the negatively charge ions push serums deeper within the skin. Ultrasonic vibration not only feels good, it also breaks up the dead skin cells while lifting, tightening, and firming the skin. Thermal heat aids in the cleansing of the skin by emulsifying the dirt and oil. This technology also shows that it improves the skin's oxygenation process, improving blood flow and shrinking pore size.

The Spa Cell has been a favorite of mine since 2016, which you can use on your face and body. This is my go to for any body waxing client, especially if you are wanting to receive a brazilian or bikini wax. It is not only effective, but also antimicrobial. This reusable product works with any cleanser or body wash you are already using.

Keep your chin up and do your best with the pores that you've been given! Cleanse, exfoliate and try one of these specialized tools to keep your pores clear of debris. Smile and show off your glowing skin!

Don't forget to 

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Mask-ne Solutions For Everyone

Whether you are currently experience mask-ne or not, these general tips are for everyone! Let's talk about mask hygiene and what you can do during these times to keep healthy skin. 

Mask hygiene

The first you may have noticed as you walk around the grocery store or eat at a restaurant. Do you see everyone fiddling and adjusting their masks? The number one no-no would be to stop touching your face. As soon as you have placed your mask on your face, leave it alone. This means that you need to find a mask that is going to fit your face properly and doesn't slide or move too much while you are talking.

Replacing masks

How often should you change out your mask? That all depends on how well your skin is doing while wearing one, but let me suggest that you change out at least once a day. Start with a new one in the morning. By the end of the day, you'll want to wash it if it's a reusable mask or replace it if it's a disposable medical mask. 

Washing cloth masks

Another thing that we need to be aware of is how to properly care for our cloth and reusable masks. When you breathe, talk, etc. there will be germs that will collect nicely in the masks and it's important that you wash them. I suggest using a very gentle laundry detergent without fabric softeners, dryer sheets, etc as these can aggravate the skin. They definitely aggravate acne. Line drying is best if possible. 

Storing Masks

Are you guilty of sticking your mask in the cup holder of your car as soon as you are done from the store? Or shoving it in your purse or diaper bag? I think many of us can say yes. After you are done using your mask, place it in a sandwich baggie or something that will protect it from everything else it may be around. This will help keep it cleaner and more sanitary. Which means that our skin will not be as exposed a random crumb, tube of makeup, or whatever may be where your mask goes.

Cleansing the skin

This should go without speaking, but your skin can reflect how you treat it. Now more than ever, it is so important to cleanse the skin properly. Use any cleanser and massage the skin for about 60 seconds. Rinse with lukewarm water and then gently wipe with a wet cloth to remove the final dirt, oil, etc. When appropriate, do a double cleanse. This means to cleanse twice in a row. Ideally, you would do this twice a day, but if you do it once, do it at night. In the morning, wipe with a wet cloth or rinse with water in the shower 

Hydrate the skin

The skin will need adequate hydration while wearing masks. While it is important to drink water daily, this is oftentimes not enough. Hyaluronic acid is a great ingredient to help keep the skin's water content happy. If you have a moisturize you love, but it doesn't seem to be cutting the mustard right now, you may need to switch to something heavier. You can also double up (like wearing a coat that has a liner - wear both) by using a serum or concentrate plus a moisturizer. When in doubt, talk to your esthetician.  

Do not wear makeup

If you can, please skip the full face makeup, especially foundation. Because there is a lack of oxygen while wearing a mask, further covering the skin will not do you any favors. Play up the eyes and eyebrows with something fun. Even try a lash lift or eyelash extensions to make it easy and to bring attention to those baby blues or gorgeous browns. 

When appropriate, take mask breaks 

If you are able to maintain 6 feet distance and it follows with government regulations, consider taking a mask break. Even a little oxygen to the skin will help keep your skin happy.

Taking all of these suggestions into consideration will help you to maintain and achieve healthy skin. You may need to add one of these into your daily practice. Some people will need to do them all to get there. Your esthetician is here to walk through other suggestions if needed. Stay tuned for at home solutions and spa treatments to treat Mask-ne.

Don't forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE