We all have that one skin problem that has always been a real bugger—and chances are, you’ve spent a lot of cash trying to solve it with products and methods that didn’t live up to promises. The secret lies in using the best ingredients and treating skin from the inside out, says YouBeauty Dermatology Expert Jeanine B. Downie, M.D.“Consistently applying targeted products daily will give you the best results—it’s the little things you do every day that really add up,” says Dr. Downie, who suggests establishing morning and nightly skin rituals that you look forward to. Pairing at least 20 minutes of daily exercise with a healthy diet rich in antioxidants will also help your topical products work better since you’re fueling skin from the inside, says the expert. And tackle those persistent issues with these solutions.
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Loss of firmnessIt may seem like a surgical nip and tuck is the only option for sagging skin, but one ingredient in particular has seen a scientifically proven effect on laxity. “DMAE is naturally found in our bodies as well as in fish like salmon,” says Linda Miles, D.O.M., co-founder of Derma E. “Research has shown that DMAE can increase skin strength and firmness, plus it demonstrates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat aging.” Try derma e® Firming DMAE Moisturizer—this formula is clinically proven to significantly improve skin firmness, elasticity and hydration, on par with a popular firming moisturizer three times its price.Large poresWhile pore size is due to genetics and can’t be changed, the look of pores can be minimized. The key is light exfoliation with products containing salicylic acid, which keeps pores clear of gunk and dead skin cells that can enlarge perceived size. Another miracle worker is vitamin A—whether prescription or over-the-counter—to stimulate new collagen production in skin, so that pores don’t sag and look bigger. Incorporating a primer to fill pores before makeup application will also give you a smoother, more even skin surface.
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Under-eye circlesWhether lack of sleep or genetics are behind your dark bags, one thing’s certain: They make you look tired. “Dark circles can be the result of blood stagnation under your eyes,” explains Miles. “Hone in on the area with gentle herbs that enhance blood flow such as Pycnogenol®, Horse Chestnut and Yarrow to help move this stagnation out. Skin-brightening ingredients like Madonna Lily Plant Stem Cells, Bearberry, Vitamin B3 and Licorice can also help visibly reduce the look of dark circles.” Try derma e® Evenly Radiant® Dark Circle Eye Crème. This formula combines all of the above natural actives and more so eyes appear brighter, well rested and radiant.MelasmaMarked by brown and gray patches on areas of skin exposed to sun, melasma can crop up everywhere from the forehead to cheeks and even the upper lip. Since UV rays cause the condition—which can also come to surface during and after pregnancy—it’s essential you diligently use a daily sunscreen for both prevention and treatment. Then target the specific spots for improvement. “Topically, I use peels containing glycolic acid and creams with 4 percent hydroquinone to treat melasma,” says Downie.Fine lip linesSince lips don’t produce oil like the rest of your face, this area is especially prone to dryness that can exacerbate the look of lines. Use a natural wax lip balm to turn lips plush with hydration, and avoid the ingredient phenol, which can cause a constant cycle of irritation and dryness by degrading skin. Exfoliate lips daily with a dry toothbrush or natural sugar scrub to keep the surface feeling and look smoother, and always protect with an SPF by day to prevent fine lines from worsening under the sun’s harsh rays, recommends Downie. If lip lines extend beyond the outer lip line, it could be a sign of dehydration. Use a moisturizer that’s rich in hyaluronic acid, such as derma e® Hydrating Night Crème.
