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Social media can be an incredible resource for information related to skincare, as long as you’re consuming content from a trusted source (on that note, make sure you follow Renée Rouleau Skin Care on Tik Tok! I’ll be sharing some of my best skin tips, product recommendations, and more). However, as is typical of social media, trends come and go and certain products, ingredients, and skin concerns shift in and out of focus.

Take fungal acne for example. What was once a little-known skin condition has recently exploded in popularity (searches related to this topic are up 500%, according to Google Trends!). People are wondering what it is and whether it’s to blame for their bumps and breakouts. In this post, I’ll discuss the causes and characteristics of fungal acne as well as what to do if you think you have it. I’ll also share expert advice from Dr. Joshua Zeichner, an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

What Is Fungal Acne, and What Causes It?

Before we talk about what fungal acne is, we have to talk about what it isn’t. Believe it or not, fungal acne isn’t really acne at all—surprised?. That’s because acne is caused, in part, by P. acnes bacteria (read more about the science behind breakouts). This particular skin condition, on the other hand, is caused by an overgrowth of yeast, which is a fungus. Bacteria and fungi are two totally different things and they affect the skin in different ways.

“The term fungal acne is a misnomer because it’s not actually acne at all,” Dr. Zeichner explains. “Instead, this is a condition where yeast on the skin infects the hair follicles, leading to red bumps and pus pimples.” So, what’s referred to as fungal acne is actually a form of folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) caused by yeast. That explains why it’s commonly referred to as Pityrosporum folliculitis or Malassezia folliculitis. That also explains why it’s commonly found on areas like the chest, back, underarms, and scalp, since yeast require warm, moist environments to survive.

How Does Fungal Acne Differ from “Normal” Acne?

Aside from the fact that one is caused by a fungus, and the other is caused by bacteria, there are a few other distinctions between the two skin conditions. The first is that so-called “normal” acne is a chronic skin condition. Fungal acne, while often recurrent, isn’t chronic. The second is that fungal acne results in small, itchy, red bumps, unlike “normal” acne, which can result in papules, pustules, and nodules. (Learn how to clear the different types of clogged pores once and for all).

How Can I Tell If I’m Experiencing Fungal Acne?

Despite what social media might lead you to believe, fungal acne isn’t actually all that common. “While extremely popular on the internet, in reality, it is quite rare,” Dr. Zeichner says. “In the past decade, I can say that I’ve only seen it a handful of times. It is much more common in parts of the world where the weather is more humid, like in the Philippines.”

Since it’s relatively uncommon and it can be tricky to diagnose, it’s critical that you visit a dermatologist if you think you’re dealing with fungal acne. If your dermatologist finds that it’s indeed fungal acne, he or she will likely provide you with an antifungal medication. Using traditional acne products, which commonly contain antibacterial ingredients, won’t do much of anything. In some cases, it could actually make the situation worse by negatively affecting your microbiome and encouraging more yeast growth. So, if you have any suspicion at all that what you’re dealing with is fungal in nature, head to your dermatologist’s office. As Dr. Zeichner puts it, “knowing what you have means you can treat it the right way.”

Since the yeast that cause fungal acne are mostly lipid-dependent, meaning they require fatty molecules to survive, many people avoid using lipids in skincare. They avoid ingredients like linoleic and linolenic acids, oleic acid, castor oil, and polysorbates. They think doing this will prevent fungal acne by preventing the overgrowth of yeast in the first place. This simply isn’t accurate. The reality is that you need what I’ll call the perfect storm—just the right imbalance in your skin’s microbiome to allow for yeast overgrowth. Only then will you develop fungal acne. Plus, lipids can be really beneficial to the skin, helping to support your moisture barrier!

Why Is Fungal Acne Trending Right Now?

I believe this is such a hot topic right now because people who are prone to breakouts and blemishes aren’t happy with the results they’re getting from their current skincare routine, and they’re looking for a cure. The reality is that acne is a skin condition with no known cure, and just because your current routine isn’t working, doesn’t automatically mean you’re dealing with something that’s fungal vs. bacterial. Acne is stubborn, and it can be difficult to address, but it’s not impossible. Your best bet when dealing with acne is to use products that are formulated for your specific skin type. It’s also helpful to consult a skin expert, such as an esthetician or dermatologist, to develop a personalized approach.

There you have it. I hope this post has shed some light on fungal acne and why it’s trending on social media. I hope it also gave you insight as to why it’s probably not the missing piece to your acne puzzle.

Next, read all about skin acceptance and get tips from a therapist and top skin experts.

The post Searches for Fungal Acne Are Up 500%—Here’s What You Need to Know appeared first on Expert Skin Advice from Renee Rouleau.

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An emerging trend in skincare is products that protect the skin against “digital aging” from blue light. Blue light is a type of high-energy visible light that has been proven to negatively affect skin when it comes to hyperpigmentation and visible signs of aging. 

But how worried should you be about digital aging, and what can you do about it? In this post, I’ll share which skincare products and ingredients are proven to protect against blue-light damage. I also spoke with Dr. Kavita Mariwalla of Mariwalla Dermatology to learn more about exactly what blue light is and how we’re being exposed to it (the answer might surprise you). 

What is Blue Light, and How Much is It Damaging Our Skin?

According to Dr. Mariwalla, blue light is considered a type of high-energy visible light. “The sun produces ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is invisible, and that’s what we use sunscreen for,” she says. “Actual sunshine, on the other hand, is considered visible light. It’s made up of a spectrum of all the colors of the rainbow (remember Roy G. Biv?). Blue light is one of the wavelengths in this spectrum. Your screens emit some of that blue light as well.”

Probably the most important thing to take away from this is that blue light is emitted by the sun—it’s not something brand new we were suddenly exposed to after technology became part of our daily lives. There’s been so much emphasis on concerns about how blue light emitted by screens is affecting our skin, but studies have shown we get significantly more blue light exposure from sunlight than we ever could from our devices. Blue light penetrates much deeper into the skin than UV rays, so it’s definitely worth having on your radar.

How Does Blue Light Impact the Skin?

So the good news is your screens are emitting far less damaging blue light than you probably thought, but the bad news is you’re still getting a healthy dose of blue-light exposure from the sun every day. But why is this important? How is blue light actually affecting our skin?

“The kicker with blue light is, if you have any trouble with hyperpigmentation, you’re in trouble,” Dr. Mariwalla says. “Blue light from screens and the sun can increase melasma, freckling, and other pigmentation, which can lead to blotchy-looking skin over time.”

Dr. Mariwalla notes this isn’t the only way blue light can negatively impact our skin as studies have shown it can affect the skin in the following ways:

• Increase hyperpigmentation, leading to uneven skin tone
• Make under-eye darkness worse
• Cause sallow-looking skin
• Promote more fine lines and wrinkles
• Induce oxidative stress via both reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS)

To make matters worse, blue light from screens is also known to disrupt sleep cycles and cause premature aging of the eyes. No one looks their best without a good beauty rest, and damaged or strained eyesight can cause squinting, which can accelerate the formation of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. 

At the end of the day, the scientific community is split on the extent to which blue light from screens is actually affecting our skin. Some say it can make a real impact, while others don’t believe it can. That said, no one doubts the amount of blue-light exposure we’re getting from the sun or the effects it can have on our skin. I believe it’s worth erring on the side of caution and taking steps to protect your skin against possible blue-light damage, especially if you spend a lot of time in front of a screen for work and/or have hyperpigmentation concerns. 

What Are the Best Skincare Products and Ingredients to Prevent Blue-Light Damage?

Luckily, some of the products and ingredients you can use to protect your skin against blue light are probably already part of your daily routine. Here’s exactly what to use to protect yourself against blue light.

1. Wear a Tinted, Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

You already know it’s important to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen each and every day to protect your skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun. Mineral sunscreens, which use either titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or a mix of the two, offer some protection against blue light as well.

That said, a visible light study published last year in the Journal of Drugs and Dermatology found that iron oxides commonly used in foundation makeup offered significantly more protection against pigmentation caused by blue light than mineral sunscreen.

Translation: wearing a tinted sunscreen is probably one of the most effective ways to protect your skin from the effects of blue light.

2. Use Complexion Makeup

Yes, you read that right! Makeup can be an important tool for protecting your skin against visible light. The same visible light study showed that any products (not just sunscreen) containing iron oxides offered significant protection against blue-light-induced hyperpigmentation. The majority of complexion makeup, be it tinted moisturizer, liquid foundation, powder foundation, or concealer, uses iron oxides to get its pigment. This is one of the reasons I suggest people wear some kind of foundation makeup every day as a form of skincare.

If your skin is prone to clogged pores, see my list of the best liquid foundations.

3. Use Skincare Products With Antioxidants

One of the ways blue light has been shown to damage skin is through oxidative stress. This is caused by free radicals, and the best way to combat it is by applying a variety of antioxidants to the skin in the morning and, if you can, at night. 

All antioxidants will help mitigate blue-light damage, but there are a few that have been tested by suppliers specifically to determine how well they defend against blue light in particular. Some examples include Hedychium Coronarium (Butterfly Ginger) Root Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, and certain algae extracts. If a company is selling a product that makes blue-light claims, it’s likely they’re using an extract that’s been specifically tested against blue light.

These are five of my favorite antioxidant ingredients to look for in skincare.

What Else Can I Do to Protect My Skin From Blue Light? 

While topical skincare products are by far the best way to make sure you’re protected against the effects of blue light, there are a few non-skincare options that can be helpful as well.

1. Shield your skin from blue light with a screen protector (I have one on my phone)
2. Get a blue-light resistant coating on your eyeglasses
3. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants

While blue light is definitely something that can lead to issues like hyperpigmentation and premature signs of aging, less of it is coming from your screens than you may think. The biggest source of blue light we encounter in our daily lives is the sun, but thankfully there are steps we can take and products we can use to mitigate its damaging effects. I know there are a lot of companies out there making claims about blue light and that it can be confusing, so I hope this post clears things up and helps you understand what to invest in so your skin stays protected!

Next, learn how using technology leads to “tech neck” and what you can do to treat and prevent it.

The post Skincare Ingredients You Should Use To Prevent Blue-Light Aging appeared first on Expert Skin Advice from Renee Rouleau.

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I am a total makeup geek. I am willing (and honestly, wishing) to try every eyeshadow, blush, cream, you name it, regardless of how many products I already have in my collection. I am that girl. So when the chance to try the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream came about, I was geeking out. Here’s what I thought:

Let’s Take a Look at the Product

According to the JUNO & Co. website, the Moonshine Miracle Cream is “a luxurious, super hydrating, creamy makeup primer that nourishes skin and diminishes imperfections for the perfect canvas before makeup.” I’ve heard this kind of claim from tons of products, so I needed more convincing that this product was worth the $35 price tag (ya girl has bills to pay).

The company also claims that this product is special because of the ingredients used in the formulation. It is “infused with JUNO’s patented sodium hyaluronate and avocado extract which provides 12-hours of moisture for a dewier complexion. It helps to maintain moisture levels to help visibly smooth and plump skin with ultimate hydration. Evens surface so foundation effortlessly glides on and stays put for longer-lasting makeup wear.”

Sodium Hyaluronate

Since I’ve started working at FutureDerm and one of my jobs is to literally read the FD blog, I have been way more interested in the ingredients and products I put on my face and body. I’m not necessarily skeptical or wary enough to turn a product away, (as I’ve said before, I will try all the makeup) but just more interested. So, in true FutureDerm fashion, I wanted to take a closer look at the patented ingredient used that makes this product special.

So, we know that as people, we’re mostly water. This is also true for our skin, and as we age, our skin begins to lose its moisture, causing loss of flexibility and resilience. Sodium hyaluronate is the key molecule involved with skin moisture, and according to the Derm Review, “the most dramatic histochemical change observed in aging skin is the marked disappearance of sodium hyaluronate in the epidermis (the top layer of skin).” By adding this ingredient to skincare it will help to attract moisture to the skin, resulting in a smoother, softer complexion. Pretty cool, but does it work in the Moonshine Miracle Cream?

Personal Use & Opinion

The very first thing I noticed was that the packaging was gorgeous, and I am a sucker for packaging. The jar itself looks like it’s speckled with stars on a dark purple background, and it’s a little heavier, making it feel expensive. The cream itself is thick and luxurious feeling. It’s lightly scented and feels like a really nice moisturizer when you put it on; it reminded me of a mix between E.L.F.’s Poreless Putty Primer and cold cream texture-wise.

When I received this product, I was just getting ready to head out to my vacation at the Grand Canyon, and it was a lifesaver! My poor Pittsburgh skin was not happy about the change from rainy/snowy and cold to dry and cold. I used this alone without makeup the first few times just because my skin was drinking it up in the desert. With makeup, I did feel a difference in how my foundation wore — it went on smoother and didn’t settle in my fine lines as much compared to other primers I’ve tried before. Overall, I was really happy with the product and ecstatic it saved my skin from drying out on my vacation. Timing is everything.

Bottom Line

I love the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream! It’s a luxurious feeling cream that can be used alone as a beautiful moisturizer, or as a primer under any foundation for a smoother look. And it includes proven ingredients like sodium hyaluronate working to retain your skin’s natural moisture to reduce the signs of aging. If you’re in the market for a new primer, this one is definitely worth a try.

The post COMMUNITY REVIEW: JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream appeared first on FutureDerm.

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It’s the age-old question: how do I reapply sunscreen throughout the day without messing up my makeup? 

When it comes to preventing visible signs of aging, there’s no better ingredient out there than SPF. The trick is applying your sunscreen correctly so that you’re actually getting the full protection it claims to offer, and this includes reapplying throughout the day as your first application wears off.

In this post, I’ll go over four different ways to reapply sunscreen over makeup, plus the pros and cons of each.

How Many Times a Day Do I Actually Need to Reapply Sunscreen?

The answer to this question depends a lot on what your day looks like. If you’re spending your day outdoors (especially if you’re sweating or swimming), reapplying every two hours is a must. 

Unless you work outside though, reapplying every two hours on a daily basis isn’t necessary (or, let’s face it, realistic). On a regular day, it’s mostly about using common sense and reapplying at times when you’ll be getting the most UV exposure. For most people, one to two reapplications should be enough. This could be before stepping out to take your lunch break or take a walk, or when you’re getting in your car to leave work and run some errands. If you sit right next to a window all day, you may want to add in one more reapplication since UV rays penetrate through windows.

Remember though, the most important sunscreen application of the day is your first. Start with a strong foundation in the morning by applying the correct amount of sunscreen to your face and all other exposed areas of your skin.

What’s the Best Way to Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup?

Okay, so let me just start by saying this: there is no perfect way to reapply sunscreen over makeup, and here’s why. Sunscreen is tested by applying a specific amount of product to a certain centimeter square area of the skin. It’s applied evenly to clean skin and allowed to form a film before being evaluated and given an SPF number.

The nature of reapplication means you won’t be applying whichever product you use to clean skin, so there’s a good chance it won’t be able to form a protective film as well as it’s supposed to. All this to say, it’s really difficult to get the true SPF number indicated on a label when you’re applying something over makeup, skincare, and another layer of sunscreen.

But, don’t despair! There are still some great options out there and at the end of the day, some extra protection is better than none. Here are four ways to touch up your sun protection throughout the day while wearing makeup.

1. Reapply Sunscreen Lotion Using Hands or Beauty Tools

The first option on the list is to reapply your regular sunscreen throughout the day using either just your hands or a beauty tool, like a brush or Beauty Blender. The nice thing about this option is that you’re using a tested, tried-and-true sunscreen product and can evenly coat your skin. On the other hand, it can be a little messy to apply and disruptive to your makeup if you’re wearing a full face so that sometimes means you have to apply it more sparingly in order to keep your makeup intact.

I’ve seen tons of articles recommending people use a Beautyblender (a popular makeup sponge) to reapply their sunscreen. If this works well for you, I say go for it. Just be mindful of keeping them clean but also switching them out regularly so you aren’t introducing bacteria to your skin. Also, realize that the sponge will absorb some of your product, but eventually, the saturation will max out and the product will be deposited onto your skin. This may just be a bit of a waste if your sunscreen is expensive!

Pros of Reapplying Sunscreen Lotion

• You’re using a tried and true SPF product.
• You can coat the skin well for even protection.
• Good option if you only wear light makeup.

Cons of Reapplying Sunscreen Lotion

• Works best with tinted mineral, chemical, or hybrid sunscreens (mineral + chemical). Purely physical sunscreens may leave a cast or not blend well due to the use of pure zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
• If you’re using a beauty tool, it could soak up your sunscreen or pick up and smudge the makeup you’re already wearing.
• Can be cumbersome, messy, or inconvenient.
• Chemical sunscreen may not be able to properly form a film over your skin for protection since you’re already wearing sunscreen and makeup.

2. Use a Cream Makeup Compact

What you may not know is that even if your makeup products aren’t marked as SPF, they’re still giving you some amount of sun protection. This is thanks to the fact that titanium dioxide—an active mineral ingredient used in physical sunscreens— is used in almost all tinted makeup products. Of course, makeup isn’t a suitable replacement for actual sunscreen, but it adds a little bit of an insurance policy. I actually recommend that people wear makeup every day for this very reason!

If you do want guaranteed SPF, there are makeup compacts that offer just that, like the Avene High Protection Tinted Compact SPF 50. 

Pros of Using a Cream Makeup Compact

• Since it’s a makeup product, it will help keep your makeup look intact.
• Easy to carry around and mess-free.
• Good for someone who wears full makeup and likes foundation.
• Physical blocker (titanium dioxide) means it doesn’t matter as much that you already have other products on your skin, the sun protection will still be effective.

Cons of Using a Cream Makeup Compact

• The applicator or sponge could get dirty and introduce bacteria to the skin.
• You need to apply an even coat all over for sun protection, which could look heavier than some people want.

3. Use a Tinted Powder (That Contains Titanium Dioxide)

This is the method that I’ve personally used for years and a lot it comes down to ease of application for me. I love just being able to quickly and conveniently reapply a powder product as needed, then go about my day.

The same thing applies here as with cream makeup compacts; any makeup powder containing titanium dioxide will offer protection (although it has not been tested for it), but you can also get sunscreen powders that have been proven to protect against UV rays and given an SPF number by the FDA. Both Colorescience and Supergoop make good SPF options, I have personally used both of these.

Pros of Tinted Powder

• Easy, portable, and mess-free.
• Good for those with oily skin since it’s oil-absorbing.
• Powder particles are good at grabbing onto and coating the skin (essential for sun protection).
• Easy to apply on other body parts like hands, neck, chest, or hair part.
• Physical blocker (titanium dioxide) means it doesn’t matter as much that you already have other products on your skin, the sun protection will still be effective.

Cons of Tinted Powder

• You need a good amount of powder, which could look cakey on some complexions.
• May not be ideal for those with dry skin.
• Shade ranges for powders with SPF can be limited.

4. Use a Sunscreen Spray or Mist

Sunscreen sprays and mists have definitely become more popular over the past few years as people pursue “dewy-looking” skin. If I’m honest…this is my least favorite reapplication method, simply because it’s unlikely you’re getting significant sun protection from it.

First of all, people underestimate how much of an SPF mist is needed to get the protection indicated on the bottle. Chances are it’s a lot more than you’ll be comfortable using from an aesthetic standpoint. In addition, it’s really critical that these spray sunscreens can form a film over the skin to be effective. This just isn’t possible when you’re spraying it over layers of products already on your skin. Finally, you’re actually supposed to rub in sunscreen sprays or mists to get them into the skin, which defeats the purpose of keeping makeup intact. Not a glowing recommendation, I know, BUT if this is the only way you can stand to reapply SPF throughout the day I still encourage you to do it. After all, some protection is better than none!

Pros of a Sunscreen Spray or Mist

• Easy, portable, and mess-free.
• Doesn’t disrupt makeup much.
• Great for those who like a dewy look.
• Can easily be used on the body as well.

Cons of a Sunscreen Spray or Mist

• Spray or aerosol delivery could cause irritation to the eyes, nose, mouth.
• Can’t form a film over skin with product already on it, won’t offer much sun protection.

Which Method of Sunscreen Reapplication is Best?

Bottom line, the best method of reapplying sunscreen is the method you’ll actually use. As you can tell, reapplication is a tricky business and none of these methods is perfect. The one that works best for you will depend on your skin type and how much or what kind of makeup you wear on a daily basis, so I encourage you to experiment a little and see what you like. At the end of the day, just be aware of the pros and cons of each so you can mitigate the cons as much as possible.

Next, read about the pros and cons of mineral vs physical sunscreen and which one is best for your skin type.

The post Four Ways to Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup (and the Pros and Cons of Each) appeared first on Expert Skin Advice from Renee Rouleau.

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Antioxidants are an essential part of any well-rounded skincare routine. They play a key role in preventing oxidation, a process that contributes to cell damage and skin aging. Oxidation is triggered by any number of things we encounter daily, including UV rays and air pollution. We’re also exposed to oxidation from internal factors that are part of the body’s natural aging process. 

The good news is that it’s easy to protect your skin by making topical antioxidants a staple in your daily routine (especially your morning skincare routine). The bad news is, there are so many options it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones. In this post, I’ll share five of my favorite antioxidants and talk about which ones might be right for your skin type.

The 5 Best Antioxidant Skincare Ingredients (and How to Choose the Right One)

All antioxidants work in generally the same way—they look for reactive oxygen species (also known as free radicals) and try to scavenge them before they have a chance to damage cells through oxidation. So if they all work in a similar way, how do you know which antioxidants to use for your skin? 

My advice is to look for antioxidants that offer additional benefits that are in line with the rest of your skin’s needs. Some antioxidants really go above and beyond just the standard function, so why not choose the ones that will get you one step closer to achieving your skin goals?

Here are what I believe to be five of the best antioxidants you can use, plus the additional benefits they offer. Keep reading to learn which ones will improve your skin! 

1. Retinol (Vitamin A)

A lot of people don’t know this, but retinol (also known as vitamin A) is actually an antioxidant. Retinol is a lipophilic (oil-loving) molecule, which means it can penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and work its magic from within. 

If you’re interested in preventing visible signs of aging, retinol is for you. Its antioxidant properties already set it up for being a great preventative-aging ingredient, but retinol also increases the rate of cell turnover to reveal younger-looking skin. This helps build collagen, which retinol also protects by decreasing the activity of enzymes that break collagen down. 

One thing to be aware of when it comes to retinol is that you can definitely have too much of a good thing. This isn’t an ingredient you want to overuse or jump right into using every day. Learn how to start without irritating your skin by reading my beginner’s guide to retinol.

Product Recommendation: Advanced Resurfacing Serum

2. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C)

This one may be a mouthful, but tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD) is really just a type of vitamin C. What makes it so special is that it’s a very stable, lipid-based form of vitamin C, which means it’s way less likely to irritate skin than traditional forms of vitamin C. Because of this, I recommend it to people with sensitive skin or people using retinol products. (These are the four other things to look for in a vitamin C serum particularly if your skin is sensitive and if you use retinol.)

THD offers all the other great benefits you would expect to get from vitamin C (building collagen, fighting inflammation), but where it really excels is in improving and preventing hyperpigmentation. This makes it an especially good option if you’re someone who wants to target melasma or brown spots, or if you’re just interested in a brighter-looking complexion.

Product Recommendation: Vitamin C & E Treatment

3. Astaxanthin

As an antioxidant, astaxanthin works by sitting on the surface of the skin and scavenging free radicals to keep them from doing damage. Astaxanthin is a reddish pigment found in certain algae (like red marine algae).

Astaxanthin, or red marine algae, is a soothing ingredient that can help calm inflammation (especially from UV rays) and combat redness. It’s a great option for anyone concerned with irritated, blotchy skin or redness.

Product Recommendation: Hydraboost Rescue Creme

4. Niacinamide

Niacinamide is one of skincare’s most versatile ingredients and boasts antioxidant properties among its many talents. Niacinamide is unique because, in addition to acting as an antioxidant itself, it also increases the antioxidant potential of the skin. Translation? It supports your skin in a way that allows it to produce more of its own antioxidants. 

As far as what else niacinamide can do for your skin, it would almost be easier to list out what it can’t do. Niacinamide has been shown to decrease redness and blotchiness, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, even out hyperpigmentation, and improve skin barrier function by preventing transepidermal water loss. Learn more about how to use niacinamide depending on your skin’s needs.

Product Recommendation: Moisture Infusion Toner

5. Green Tea Extract

Most people are already aware of the health benefits of drinking green tea, but did you know it’s a great skincare ingredient as well? Green tea extract is chock-full of polyphenols, a powerful class of antioxidants. One type of green tea extract emerging in skincare is ECGC (which stands for Epigallocatechin Gallate). It’s been shown to eliminate reactive oxygen species in the skin very efficiently. 

In addition to being an extremely effective antioxidant, green tea extract can provide soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits to the skin.

Product Recommendation: Redness Care Firming Serum

Will you be adding one of these five antioxidants into your routine? Keep in mind that there are a lot of great antioxidants out there, these five just happen to be some of my favorites and ones that I love to use in my skincare product line! I’ve found them to be reliable based on the results I’ve seen people get and the research I’ve read. I hope you found this post helpful!

Next, learn exactly how antioxidants prevent cell damage and how to incorporate them into your routine.

The post The 5 Best Antioxidant Ingredients to Look For in Your Skincare Products appeared first on Expert Skin Advice from Renee Rouleau.

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I am a total makeup geek. I am willing (and honestly, wishing) to try every eyeshadow, blush, cream, you name it, regardless of how many products I already have in my collection. I am that girl. So when the chance to try the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream came about, I was geeking out. Here’s what I thought:

Let’s Take a Look at the Product

According to the JUNO & Co. website, the Moonshine Miracle Cream is “a luxurious, super hydrating, creamy makeup primer that nourishes skin and diminishes imperfections for the perfect canvas before makeup.” I’ve heard this kind of claim from tons of products, so I needed more convincing that this product was worth the $35 price tag (ya girl has bills to pay).

The company also claims that this product is special because of the ingredients used in the formulation. It is “infused with JUNO’s patented sodium hyaluronate and avocado extract which provides 12-hours of moisture for a dewier complexion. It helps to maintain moisture levels to help visibly smooth and plump skin with ultimate hydration. Evens surface so foundation effortlessly glides on and stays put for longer-lasting makeup wear.”

Sodium Hyaluronate

Since I’ve started working at FutureDerm and one of my jobs is to literally read the FD blog, I have been way more interested in the ingredients and products I put on my face and body. I’m not necessarily skeptical or wary enough to turn a product away, (as I’ve said before, I will try all the makeup) but just more interested. So, in true FutureDerm fashion, I wanted to take a closer look at the patented ingredient used that makes this product special.

So, we know that as people, we’re mostly water. This is also true for our skin, and as we age, our skin begins to lose its moisture, causing loss of flexibility and resilience. Sodium hyaluronate is the key molecule involved with skin moisture, and according to the Derm Review, “the most dramatic histochemical change observed in aging skin is the marked disappearance of sodium hyaluronate in the epidermis (the top layer of skin).” By adding this ingredient to skincare it will help to attract moisture to the skin, resulting in a smoother, softer complexion. Pretty cool, but does it work in the Moonshine Miracle Cream?

Personal Use & Opinion

The very first thing I noticed was that the packaging was gorgeous, and I am a sucker for packaging. The jar itself looks like it’s speckled with stars on a dark purple background, and it’s a little heavier, making it feel expensive. The cream itself is thick and luxurious feeling. It’s lightly scented and feels like a really nice moisturizer when you put it on; it reminded me of a mix between E.L.F.’s Poreless Putty Primer and cold cream texture-wise.

When I received this product, I was just getting ready to head out to my vacation at the Grand Canyon, and it was a lifesaver! My poor Pittsburgh skin was not happy about the change from rainy/snowy and cold to dry and cold. I used this alone without makeup the first few times just because my skin was drinking it up in the desert. With makeup, I did feel a difference in how my foundation wore — it went on smoother and didn’t settle in my fine lines as much compared to other primers I’ve tried before. Overall, I was really happy with the product and ecstatic it saved my skin from drying out on my vacation. Timing is everything.

Bottom Line

I love the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream! It’s a luxurious feeling cream that can be used alone as a beautiful moisturizer, or as a primer under any foundation for a smoother look. And it includes proven ingredients like sodium hyaluronate working to retain your skin’s natural moisture to reduce the signs of aging. If you’re in the market for a new primer, this one is definitely worth a try.

The post COMMUNITY REVIEW: JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream appeared first on FutureDerm.

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I am a total makeup geek. I am willing (and honestly, wishing) to try every eyeshadow, blush, cream, you name it, regardless of how many products I already have in my collection. I am that girl. So when the chance to try the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream came about, I was geeking out. Here’s what I thought:

Let’s Take a Look at the Product

According to the JUNO & Co. website, the Moonshine Miracle Cream is “a luxurious, super hydrating, creamy makeup primer that nourishes skin and diminishes imperfections for the perfect canvas before makeup.” I’ve heard this kind of claim from tons of products, so I needed more convincing that this product was worth the $35 price tag (ya girl has bills to pay).

The company also claims that this product is special because of the ingredients used in the formulation. It is “infused with JUNO’s patented sodium hyaluronate and avocado extract which provides 12-hours of moisture for a dewier complexion. It helps to maintain moisture levels to help visibly smooth and plump skin with ultimate hydration. Evens surface so foundation effortlessly glides on and stays put for longer-lasting makeup wear.”

Sodium Hyaluronate

Since I’ve started working at FutureDerm and one of my jobs is to literally read the FD blog, I have been way more interested in the ingredients and products I put on my face and body. I’m not necessarily skeptical or wary enough to turn a product away, (as I’ve said before, I will try all the makeup) but just more interested. So, in true FutureDerm fashion, I wanted to take a closer look at the patented ingredient used that makes this product special.

So, we know that as people, we’re mostly water. This is also true for our skin, and as we age, our skin begins to lose its moisture, causing loss of flexibility and resilience. Sodium hyaluronate is the key molecule involved with skin moisture, and according to the Derm Review, “the most dramatic histochemical change observed in aging skin is the marked disappearance of sodium hyaluronate in the epidermis (the top layer of skin).” By adding this ingredient to skincare it will help to attract moisture to the skin, resulting in a smoother, softer complexion. Pretty cool, but does it work in the Moonshine Miracle Cream?

Personal Use & Opinion

The very first thing I noticed was that the packaging was gorgeous, and I am a sucker for packaging. The jar itself looks like it’s speckled with stars on a dark purple background, and it’s a little heavier, making it feel expensive. The cream itself is thick and luxurious feeling. It’s lightly scented and feels like a really nice moisturizer when you put it on; it reminded me of a mix between E.L.F.’s Poreless Putty Primer and cold cream texture-wise.

When I received this product, I was just getting ready to head out to my vacation at the Grand Canyon, and it was a lifesaver! My poor Pittsburgh skin was not happy about the change from rainy/snowy and cold to dry and cold. I used this alone without makeup the first few times just because my skin was drinking it up in the desert. With makeup, I did feel a difference in how my foundation wore — it went on smoother and didn’t settle in my fine lines as much compared to other primers I’ve tried before. Overall, I was really happy with the product and ecstatic it saved my skin from drying out on my vacation. Timing is everything.

Bottom Line

I love the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream! It’s a luxurious feeling cream that can be used alone as a beautiful moisturizer, or as a primer under any foundation for a smoother look. And it includes proven ingredients like sodium hyaluronate working to retain your skin’s natural moisture to reduce the signs of aging. If you’re in the market for a new primer, this one is definitely worth a try.

The post COMMUNITY REVIEW: JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream appeared first on FutureDerm.

COMMUNITY REVIEW: JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream Read More

I am a total makeup geek. I am willing (and honestly, wishing) to try every eyeshadow, blush, cream, you name it, regardless of how many products I already have in my collection. I am that girl. So when the chance to try the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream came about, I was geeking out. Here’s what I thought:

Let’s Take a Look at the Product

According to the JUNO & Co. website, the Moonshine Miracle Cream is “a luxurious, super hydrating, creamy makeup primer that nourishes skin and diminishes imperfections for the perfect canvas before makeup.” I’ve heard this kind of claim from tons of products, so I needed more convincing that this product was worth the $35 price tag (ya girl has bills to pay).

The company also claims that this product is special because of the ingredients used in the formulation. It is “infused with JUNO’s patented sodium hyaluronate and avocado extract which provides 12-hours of moisture for a dewier complexion. It helps to maintain moisture levels to help visibly smooth and plump skin with ultimate hydration. Evens surface so foundation effortlessly glides on and stays put for longer-lasting makeup wear.”

Sodium Hyaluronate

Since I’ve started working at FutureDerm and one of my jobs is to literally read the FD blog, I have been way more interested in the ingredients and products I put on my face and body. I’m not necessarily skeptical or wary enough to turn a product away, (as I’ve said before, I will try all the makeup) but just more interested. So, in true FutureDerm fashion, I wanted to take a closer look at the patented ingredient used that makes this product special.

So, we know that as people, we’re mostly water. This is also true for our skin, and as we age, our skin begins to lose its moisture, causing loss of flexibility and resilience. Sodium hyaluronate is the key molecule involved with skin moisture, and according to the Derm Review, “the most dramatic histochemical change observed in aging skin is the marked disappearance of sodium hyaluronate in the epidermis (the top layer of skin).” By adding this ingredient to skincare it will help to attract moisture to the skin, resulting in a smoother, softer complexion. Pretty cool, but does it work in the Moonshine Miracle Cream?

Personal Use & Opinion

The very first thing I noticed was that the packaging was gorgeous, and I am a sucker for packaging. The jar itself looks like it’s speckled with stars on a dark purple background, and it’s a little heavier, making it feel expensive. The cream itself is thick and luxurious feeling. It’s lightly scented and feels like a really nice moisturizer when you put it on; it reminded me of a mix between E.L.F.’s Poreless Putty Primer and cold cream texture-wise.

When I received this product, I was just getting ready to head out to my vacation at the Grand Canyon, and it was a lifesaver! My poor Pittsburgh skin was not happy about the change from rainy/snowy and cold to dry and cold. I used this alone without makeup the first few times just because my skin was drinking it up in the desert. With makeup, I did feel a difference in how my foundation wore — it went on smoother and didn’t settle in my fine lines as much compared to other primers I’ve tried before. Overall, I was really happy with the product and ecstatic it saved my skin from drying out on my vacation. Timing is everything.

Bottom Line

I love the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream! It’s a luxurious feeling cream that can be used alone as a beautiful moisturizer, or as a primer under any foundation for a smoother look. And it includes proven ingredients like sodium hyaluronate working to retain your skin’s natural moisture to reduce the signs of aging. If you’re in the market for a new primer, this one is definitely worth a try.

The post COMMUNITY REVIEW: JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream appeared first on FutureDerm.

COMMUNITY REVIEW: JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream Read More

I am a total makeup geek. I am willing (and honestly, wishing) to try every eyeshadow, blush, cream, you name it, regardless of how many products I already have in my collection. I am that girl. So when the chance to try the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream came about, I was geeking out. Here’s what I thought:

Let’s Take a Look at the Product

According to the JUNO & Co. website, the Moonshine Miracle Cream is “a luxurious, super hydrating, creamy makeup primer that nourishes skin and diminishes imperfections for the perfect canvas before makeup.” I’ve heard this kind of claim from tons of products, so I needed more convincing that this product was worth the $35 price tag (ya girl has bills to pay).

The company also claims that this product is special because of the ingredients used in the formulation. It is “infused with JUNO’s patented sodium hyaluronate and avocado extract which provides 12-hours of moisture for a dewier complexion. It helps to maintain moisture levels to help visibly smooth and plump skin with ultimate hydration. Evens surface so foundation effortlessly glides on and stays put for longer-lasting makeup wear.”

Sodium Hyaluronate

Since I’ve started working at FutureDerm and one of my jobs is to literally read the FD blog, I have been way more interested in the ingredients and products I put on my face and body. I’m not necessarily skeptical or wary enough to turn a product away, (as I’ve said before, I will try all the makeup) but just more interested. So, in true FutureDerm fashion, I wanted to take a closer look at the patented ingredient used that makes this product special.

So, we know that as people, we’re mostly water. This is also true for our skin, and as we age, our skin begins to lose its moisture, causing loss of flexibility and resilience. Sodium hyaluronate is the key molecule involved with skin moisture, and according to the Derm Review, “the most dramatic histochemical change observed in aging skin is the marked disappearance of sodium hyaluronate in the epidermis (the top layer of skin).” By adding this ingredient to skincare it will help to attract moisture to the skin, resulting in a smoother, softer complexion. Pretty cool, but does it work in the Moonshine Miracle Cream?

Personal Use & Opinion

The very first thing I noticed was that the packaging was gorgeous, and I am a sucker for packaging. The jar itself looks like it’s speckled with stars on a dark purple background, and it’s a little heavier, making it feel expensive. The cream itself is thick and luxurious feeling. It’s lightly scented and feels like a really nice moisturizer when you put it on; it reminded me of a mix between E.L.F.’s Poreless Putty Primer and cold cream texture-wise.

When I received this product, I was just getting ready to head out to my vacation at the Grand Canyon, and it was a lifesaver! My poor Pittsburgh skin was not happy about the change from rainy/snowy and cold to dry and cold. I used this alone without makeup the first few times just because my skin was drinking it up in the desert. With makeup, I did feel a difference in how my foundation wore — it went on smoother and didn’t settle in my fine lines as much compared to other primers I’ve tried before. Overall, I was really happy with the product and ecstatic it saved my skin from drying out on my vacation. Timing is everything.

Bottom Line

I love the JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream! It’s a luxurious feeling cream that can be used alone as a beautiful moisturizer, or as a primer under any foundation for a smoother look. And it includes proven ingredients like sodium hyaluronate working to retain your skin’s natural moisture to reduce the signs of aging. If you’re in the market for a new primer, this one is definitely worth a try.

The post COMMUNITY REVIEW: JUNO & Co. Moonshine Miracle Cream appeared first on FutureDerm.

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There’s no doubt that putting together and maintaining a skincare routine can be an expensive endeavor. This leads many people down the path of skincare dupes. A dupe, or duplicate, is a product that matches the look, feel, main ingredients, and results of a (usually) more expensive product on the market.

In this post, I’ll address whether dupes are real or a myth, how to find them, and when you should splurge on your skincare. I also spoke with Valerie George, cosmetic chemist and co-host of Beauty Brains Podcast, for her point of view on skincare dupes.

What Does it Take for a Product to Be Considered a Dupe?

First thing’s first: skincare dupes are definitely a real thing. 

“As a cosmetic chemist, I encounter this all the time,” Valerie says. “Brands that are usually in a lower price bracket are inspired by other successful products on the market, which are sold in a higher price bracket. As a chemist, I’m asked to mimic the appearance, function, marketing ingredients, and sometimes fragrance to create a dupe of a product.” 

Valerie notes, however, that it takes more than just a few key ingredients for a product to be considered a dupe. (For example, you couldn’t simply compare two exfoliating masks that both use AHAs and bromelain enzymes and say they’re dupes of each other.) They have to be close enough in appearance and skin feel that someone would be completely satisfied with the whole experience and performance of a product.

Can I Tell If a Product Is a Dupe by Comparing Ingredient Labels?

Short answer—no. If you’ve read my blog before, you already know my stance that you can’t judge a product based on the ingredient label. There are too many factors at play: quality of ingredients, percentage of ingredients used, type of delivery system used for active ingredients, and the pH of a product, to name a few. These can all make a HUGE difference when it comes to the actual performance of a skincare product, and none of these things can be gleaned from reading a label.

Let me give you an example. Dimethicone is a popular type of silicone used in lots of different skincare products. As I mentioned in this post about silicones, dimethicone can come in many different weights. This can make a huge difference in the texture of a product. Dimethicone can feel really emollient or occlusive at certain weights, while at others it may feel dry and evaporate almost immediately. Even as a product formulator like myself, or a cosmetic chemist like Valerie, we can’t see dimethicone on an ingredient label and know which weight was used. 

There are so many nuances like this when it comes to product formulations. Believe me when I say the ingredient label is only one piece of the puzzle. 

So What’s the Best Way to Go About Finding Skincare Dupes?

First off, I would caution against using online tools that claim to compare products and match dupes. Since these rely almost solely on ingredient labels, I’m not a fan. For all the reasons I mentioned above, there’s no way you can get accurate information as to whether one product is a duplicate of another through the algorithm these tools use.

Valerie agreed with me, saying, “I looked up products I’ve personally formulated and that I know inside and out, and I looked at the products they recommended as dupes (most of which I’ve also used). For the most part, I couldn’t believe what was being recommended because they’re not similar at all.”

Unfortunately, the only real way to tell is through trial and error. Some things you can certainly research beforehand, including the look of a product, its main function, marketing claims, and key ingredients. But at the end of the day, a true dupe also comes down to the human experience and whether or not you’re happy with how a product performs. Word of mouth is probably the easiest way to find dupes, so I’d ask around via social media or online forums. But, keep in mind that just because a product worked for someone else doesn’t mean it will work for you. 

Does a Skincare Product Really Need to Cost More to Work Better?

The answer to this question isn’t always black and white, and I would say it depends on what kind of product you’re looking at. 

Price is more likely to matter when you’re looking at products that contain truly active ingredients. This includes things like vitamin C, peptides, and retinol. These performance ingredients can be really expensive and need to be used at certain levels to be efficacious, all of which translates to a product costing more money. For example, if a company uses a peptide that costs a few thousand dollars per pound and it needs to be used at 2% to give results, this is going to drive up the cost of the product so the seller can make a decent margin. Logically speaking, if you buy an inexpensive peptide cream at the drugstore, it isn’t going to be as effective or as high quality because of that cost margin. 

That said, don’t be fooled into thinking expensive always means better. Some companies charge a lot based on nothing but nice-looking packaging and inflated marketing claims. Products like cleansers, toners, and moisturizers can definitely be of good quality even if they don’t come with a hefty price tag. At the end of the day, my best advice is to buy your products from a company that has good transparency so you know they’re doing the right thing when it comes to product formulation.

When Should I Splurge on Skincare?

At the end of the day, the results you get from skincare don’t come from a single product but from a well-rounded routine. This is a big part of why I created my 9 skin types and why I’m so passionate about them; our skin needs a variety of products and ingredients to be healthy. For this reason, I don’t usually recommend that people sink hundreds of dollars into one “hero” product. Your skin has multiple needs, and these can rarely be addressed by a single product. 

If you are trying to decide where to spend a little more money though, I’d go with a serum since they usually contain active or performance ingredients. It’s so important that the active ingredients you use are high-quality and effective because this is what gives you the most dramatic, visible results. 

This isn’t to say your cleanser, alcohol-free toner, and moisturizer aren’t very important parts of your routine, but it is possible to get well-formulated products in these categories on a budget. (Here’s what to look for in a facial cleanser.) 

So there you have it, an insider look into the world of skincare dupes! There are plenty out there, but the unfortunate truth is that they can be hard to identify without comparing two products for yourself. Ingredient lists are unreliable, and at the end of the day similarity in experience and results is what really matters. 

Next, read about ingredient percentages and what product labels won’t tell you.

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