It seems that more and more people are embracing the #NoMakeup movement, a natural transition from the #NoFilter trend. Perhaps it would be more accurate to say that celebrities and the public in general are embracing the empowering feeling of posting selfies without makeup on.
#NoMakeup is not without its “grey” areas. Some consider it in its most basic sense: an untouched photo of a bare face with no cosmetic embellishment. Others are less strict, allowing for professionally-groomed brows, false eyelashes, even tinted moisturizer. Then there are those who consider it merely the look of the day: applying makeup to appear as though there actually is none.
Whichever version of #NoMakeup is adopted, you can be sure that champions of the trend are not neglecting their skin. While celebrities have easy access to expensive facials, laser treatments and Botox, we mere mortals will have to go the old-fashioned route with effective topicals. No sympathy required, however, as these tried-and-true treatments really work:
Sunscreen: Dermatologists and skin care specialists are unanimous when it comes to daily sunscreen wear. Because the sun’s UV rays are responsible for 85% of skin aging, an effective broad spectrum sunscreen like Anthelios is the most important skin care product you’ll need. Fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and sagging skin can all be attributed in some way to sun exposure. And according to a recent Australian study, it’s never too late to start.
Antioxidant serum: Going hand-in-hand with sunscreen to prevent skin damage, a powerful antioxidant serum can be your new best friend. Antioxidants, especially vitamin C, can also boost the effectiveness of your sunscreen by working in tandem to protect from UV rays. Applying an antioxidant in the morning helps to minimize skin damage from free radicals, those highly-charged and unstable molecules that can activate enzymes that break down collagen. Using an antioxidant at night continues to fight damage from environmental stressors while increasing collagen production, strengthening the skin’s barrier system and reducing inflammation, another factor that can age the skin. We can’t help but gush about our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum: it’s pharmacist-formulated and made-to-order.
Retinoids: Backed by reams of research, retinoids (encompassing retinol, retinaldehyde and retinoic acid) are considered by many to be the darlings of the anti-aging world. Working as cell communicators, retinoids have been shown to effectively increase cell turnover, reduce pigmentation, even out skin tone, unclog pores, stimulate collagen production and manage acne. No small feat by any stretch of the imagination! You’ll want this one as part of your skin care arsenal. Our favorite is Apothekari A is for Anti-Aging Retinal Serum. It’s never let us down.
Exfoliate: This is one step that gets left off our “to do” list far too often. According to recent comments by a 60-year old supermodel, exfoliating on a daily basis is the secret to her youthful looks. Although I’m sure genetics and a healthy lifestyle also contribute, the benefits of exfoliating cannot be overstated. Dead skin cells that can dull our complexion are sloughed off, leaving the skin brighter and prepped to better absorb subsequent topical treatments. Whether you choose to exfoliate the physical way (tools and washcloths) or take the chemical route (AHA’s in cleansers, creams or lotions), the key is to do it gently.
Moisturizer: If we’re being completely superficial, well-hydrated skin instantly lessens the appearance of wrinkles. Over the long-run, however, a good moisturizer containing water-attracting ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides will reinforce your skin’s protective barrier to resist external irritants and bacteria. Healthy skin is happy skin.
Great skin won’t happen overnight (personally, I have doubts about products that promise results in days when it takes 28 for skin to renew itself, even longer as we age). But with anything worth having, the payoff will happen with patience and diligence.
Ready to share a selfie? Word is that good angles and lighting make all the difference.
