BellaSugar

10 Important Things to Know About Retinoids

BellaSugar — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 08:00:07 -0700

Retinoids have been used for decades, but oddly, they don't get much buzz. These underpraised and often overlooked topical treatments could help your skin in more ways than one, though. Not only do they effectively treat acne by unclogging pores, they can also slow signs of aging while keeping your complexion healthier. Retinoids - including drugs like tretinoin, isotretinoin, adapalene - are topical forms of vitamin A, and they're available only by prescription.

The good news is that retinoid medications can work wonders for your complexion. Unlike over-the-counter treatments, though, they require a little more attention. To find out what you need to know before considering retinoids like Retin-A, Tazorac, and Differin, just keep reading.

The Differin Diaries: Month Two

BellaSugar — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 07:00:00 -0700

Welcome back to my "diary" of my experience being on Differin. The first installment explains what Differin is-essentially, a topical retinoid used to clear up acne. It's available only by prescription, so if you're interested in it, see a dermatologist. And as always, this is just my experience; everyone's skin is different, and only a doctor can work with you to see which treatment is best.

Now that I've been on Differin (and Klaron, an antibacterial lotion) for a little over two months, I'm definitely seeing an improvement in my complexion. At first, there was some peeling, but it wasn't painful or red. That's stopped, and now my forehead and nose are almost completely clear. Although I still have a tiny bit of congestion around the hairline, it's minimal, and I haven't had a horrifyingly large pimple there in at least a month.

To find out where Differin isn't doing wonders, read more

The only problem spot that remains is my chinny-chin-chin. It's not that Differin doesn't have an effect; it does. The blemishes sprout faster than they did pre-Differin; I'll feel one coming on in the morning, and by the time I go home after work, there it is in its pustulent glory. So I guess that's a good thing, since the zits rise and fall quickly. Additionally, when I do have a clogged pore, it clears up with just the lightest touch of pressure.

Still, it's frustrating that while the rest of my face is mostly clear and healthy-looking, the chin is like a little oil field. Part of the problem is due to hormones, I'm sure. And I could probably be more consistent with my exfoliation schedule. I'm going to remember to exfoliate the chin every other day, and maybe this will improve things. Plus, I've been using my Zeno Pro in hopes that it will help kill some of the acne bacteria. I'll give it some more time and let you know how it goes.

The Differin Diaries: Month One

BellaSugar — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 14:02:17 -0700

To paraphrase Dr. Vail Reese, people who escaped acne in their teenage years are more likely to experience it in their 20s. I'm definitely in this camp, unfortunately, and I know a lot of you are, too. I recently started a prescription plan to clear up my skin, and I thought you might be interested in following the progress. (Of course, everyone's skin is different, and if you're thinking of prescription medicine, you should definitely see your doctor. My experience isn't necessarily what yours might be.)

I don't have terrible skin, but this summer I developed some problems that weren't going away: some clogged pores on my forehead, sore cystic acne on my chin, and blackheads on my nose. I went to see my dermatologist, who prescribed Differin 0.1% cream for the evening, and Klaron lotion for the morning. To find out how the first month has gone, read more

I was happy that my dermatologist prescribed Differin, because when I tried Retin-A Micro a few years ago, it was very rough on my skin. Differin, like Retin-A Micro, is a retinoid, so it accelerates cell turnover while acting as an anti-inflammatory. To use it, I wash my face, wait 30 minutes, then apply a pea-sized amount to my face. Because retinoids can be drying, I followed the Differin application with Lush Skin Drink, a somewhat heavy moisturizer. (It doesn't smell so good, but you win some, you lose some.) In the mornings, I apply a few drops of Klaron before putting on my sunblock. The idea is that Differin will exfoliate my skin and regulate the pores, while the Klaron fights bacteria.

I'm a little more than a month into this regimen, and it's been surprisingly gentle. These products do dry my skin out a little bit, but in a way that makes my skin feel tight-not red or flaky at all. The exciting thing is that my blemishes are quickly rising to the surface. I knew that the first eight weeks could accelerate pimples that were lurking deep in the skin, and occasionally I wake up with a pretty gross one (like, uh, today). The good news is that as quickly as these zits develop, they go away... and they don't come back. I don't yet have a flawless complexion, but I'm seeing an improvement. As time progresses, I'll let you know whether my skin does as well.

Get Glowing with a Glycolic Acid Wash

BellaSugar — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 07:00:26 -0700

I'm a little obsessive when it comes to having healthy skin, and although Differin has cleared up most of my acne, I still didn't have that glow that I've been seeking. So on Saturday, I went to a med-spa to discuss my options. After looking at my skin, the esthetician suggested Jan Marini Bioglycolic cleanser (about $30). Now, normally I'd never spend this much for a cleanser, but because I don't currently have a glycolic acid product in my daily regimen, I decided to give it a whirl.

After just a few days, I'm hooked. This is already making a difference. I'm starting to have that shiny-but-not-oily glow that I covet, and my skin feels soft and smooth. And even though it doesn't irritate my skin, know that this is serious stuff: the cleanser contains 12% glycolic acid, which is a pretty hefty concentration. To use the cleanser, you put a small amount on dry skin - it can't be wet - and massage it into skin for about a minute before rinsing.

I was worried that a glycolic product would be too harsh for my skin, especially considering my Differin use, but it's been great so far. If you're dealing with dull skin and regular exfoliants aren't doing much for you, I would definitely try this cleanser. Or for a more affordable version, try Aqua Glycolic Facial Cleanser ($14.49). Although I haven't used it, the ingredient list is nearly identical, with only a slightly less potent percentage of glycolic acid. Give either of these a try; I'm almost positive you'll have great results!

2007 Sugar Awards: Best Acne Fighter

BellaSugar — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 11:03:46 -0800

Well, this "best of" skin care category was a wash. (Get it?) There wasn't a clear winner for Best Acne Fighter, but I'm loving some of the comments you made. DejaVecu has been using the Body Shop's tea tree oil system, and it's been great for her. "My skin is soft and bright, no more big embarassing break-outs, barely a blackhead in sight, no more dry patches," she says. Proactiv got a few write-in votes, too, but many of you were concerned about its drying side effects.

For what it's worth, my favorite skin care product of the year is Differin. It's available by prescription only, but it has dramatically improved my complexion. You can read about my Differin experiences to see what some of the side effects and benefits are, and if you think it might help you, make an appointment with your dermatologist. Okay, I know this sounds like a plug, but honestly, it's made a world of difference in my skin! Any similar miracle product for you and your pores?

Source

Models of the Week: Kelly and Sabrina Aldridge

BellaSugar — Wed, 09 May 2007 08:30:45 -0700

Welcome back to Model of the Week. Today, you get a double dose of Bella beauties: Kelly and Sabrina Aldridge, a pair of 22-year-old twins from Tampa with blond hair and brown eyes.

Ever since they were young, the twins were pursued by modeling agencies and talent scouts, but it wasn't until they were 18 that they headed to Miami to model. After one meeting at the Irene Marie agency, they were signed!

You may recognize them from the MTV reality show, 8th & Ocean, as well as from their recent Acuvue, Differin, and Laundry by Shelli Segal ad campaigns. They also appeared in the 2006 movie Deck The Halls.

Kelly and Sabrina have a competitive nature about them, but they are also the best of friends and have an unconditional sense of love and support for each other.

Read what they had to say about fashion to Fab, and check out their thoughts on beauty and a great gallery of photos when you read more

BELLA: What is your secret to beautiful skin and hair?

KA: For skin, I use Cetaphil for a gentle cleanse, then I use Differin at night. Also, I keep my face shaded with a hat when I’m in the sun. I wash my hair every other day, and I deep condition once a week to keep my hair healthy, since its so hard to keep healthy ends when you have long hair.

SA: For hair, I don't over-wash - only 3 times per week. I use Redken Blonde Glam and everything Redken. I also use Big Sexy Hair to add volume to the roots, and I never brush it after the shower. My hair gets extremely knotty, and it works better for me to clip it up in a bun an let it naturally air dry. Afterwards my hair has much more body and wave to it.

BELLA: What is the one product that you can't live without?

KA: Maybelline Great Lash Mascara. Who doesn’t use it? I hear that a tube sells every six seconds in the U.S.

SA: My curling iron.

BELLA: What is your guilty pleasure?

KA: Mint chocolate chip ice cream

SA: Fettuccine Alfredo

BELLA: What are your favorite drugstore products?

KA: I like Hallmark Cards and L'Oreal True Match Foundation in W4.

SA: Advil, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser and Neutrogena Triple Moisture Conditioning Treatment.

BELLA: Happiness is...

KA: Spending time with friends and family. I’ve had some of my happiest memories with my sister, Sabrina. Traveling also makes me extremely happy!

SA: Being around the special people in my life and traveling the world.

Kelly & Sabrina

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Sabrina

View 3 Photos ›

Kelly

View 3 Photos ›

Source and Source

This Acne Cream Is Only $3.84. And It Works!

BellaSugar — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 09:00:05 -0800

Lately I've been battling a bit of chin acne, and it's been driving me bonkers. The rest of my skin has been great, but my chin has been sporting a robust crop of pimples. Nothing I tried-masks, Differin, exfoliation, glycolic acid lotion, leaving it alone-worked.

Then I remembered a tip I'd picked up from a friend whose roommate uses only high-end skin care-with one exception. "She and I swear by CVS benzoyl peroxide cream," my pimple-free pal said. "I swear, it works better than any of the expensive things we've tried."

Sure enough, she was right. I picked up a tube for less than four dollars and put it on before bed. The next morning, all of the volcanic little pustules had vanished. The only side effect is a bit of dry skin, but a little moisturizer fixed that problem within a day. Now my complexion is smooth as buttah. I'm telling you, this is good stuff.

The Best of Bella, 9/23

BellaSugar — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 14:03:29 -0700

I give an early review on new hair-removal gadget No!No!.
The new Nars holiday collection is something to celebrate.
Keira Knightley talks about her insecurities.
Just what little girls need: Nair's new line for pre-teens.
Make your own alfalfa footbath.
Don't miss any of the Emmy looks.
MAC's new matte shadows have you excited.
Beyonce's got a new hairstyle that's not so hot.
Trend alert: rockabilly hair.
Check out these old-timey lipstick tips from the '40s.
Take a look at my Differin diaries to see how the acne cream is working.