FAQ

What ingredients should I avoid?

Learning to read your ingredients labels will be the MOST beneficial thing for you. A lot of skincare products contain harsh ingredients, stripping alcohols, irritating fragrances, and low concentrations of the "good stuff," (hence why they can be made so cheaply). The label will traditionally list ingredients from ascending to descending order. Ingredients I suggest avoiding, especially if listed in the top/middle portion of the label: Fragrance/Parfum/Perfume (synthetic) Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Phthalates (pht) such as diethylphthalate (DEP) (DBP) (DEHP) (DIBP) (BBP) Essential Oils/Fragrant Plant Oils and Extracts: Peppermint, Menthol, Eucalyptus, Citrus, Tea Tree, Limonene, Citronellol, Eugenol, Linalool, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Thyme, Cinnamon, Citronella, Lime, Lemon, Tangerine, Grapefruit, Mandarin, Bergamot, Wintergreen, Camphor, Clary Sage, Geranium, Ginger, Jasmine, Lemongrass, Neroli, Oregano, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang Charcoal Witch Hazel Harsh Alcohols: Alcohol, Denatured Alcohol, Methanol, Ethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Alcohol, SD Alcohol, SD Alcohol 40 *Some people don't have sensitivities to these ingredients, but if you are experiencing skin issues then look for these common culprits*

What ingredients will help hold water to my skin?

Look for hyaluronic acid, sqalane, aloe vera, and seaweed

What ingredients are good for lightening and brightening my spots?

Look for bearberry extract, gooseberry, niacinamide, mulberry extract, willow bark extract, and papaya.

What ingredients will help prevent and treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Tyrosinase inhibitors that you should look for: Azelaic acid Kojic acid Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate) Licorice extract Retinoids Vitamin E

Is coconut oil bad for my skin?

Coconut oil is controversial. According to the comedogenic scale, it is very likely to clog your pores. As with many other testing methods, results are dependent on individual variables. Some people are simply more prone to breakouts. If you currently use coconut oil and have issues with breakouts then I would say that you should discontinue it. If you are using it for hydration purposes then I also suggest using something else because coconut oil does not hydrate well, it's more like a barrier. Better moisturizing options (just to name a few): Aloe, Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, Snow Mushroom Extract, Cogon Grass, Avocado Oil, Safflower Oil

How can I heal a pimple quickly?

Hydrocolloid patches will help draw out bacteria and can be used as an overnight treatment. These can be found online. Visine eye drops can be applied to a cotton round and then to a pimple to reduce swelling. Cool applications like jade rollers, ice, or a cool cloth will reduce swelling and the inflammatory response. Ibuprofen liquid gel capsules can also be broke open and applied. Spot treatments that will help with inflammation and exfoliation: salicylic acid, sulfur, benzoyl peroxide Raw manuca honey will help heal a pimple without the drying effects

What are some ingredients that I should avoid on my acne-prone skin?

Please see the "ingredients" section for a full list. Often times people think that drying a pimple out is the best answer, but it's not. The goal is to HEAL your pimple and avoid future breakouts. Applying drying, "old school" remedies like toothpaste, rubbing alcohol, lemon juice, baking soda, tea tree oil, and charcoal are going to cause more damage.

What are some products that will help my acne?

This is a trick question and really isn't that easy to answer. First, there are different kinds of acne and skin types. This is why skincare is not one size fits all. The best thing to do is schedule an in-person or virtual consultation. The second best thing to do is take the skincare quiz. Keeping your acne-prone skin cleansed, exfoliated, moisturized, and protected is of upmost importance. Let me elaborate: - Cleansing once in the morning and evening with a targeted cleanser - Gently exfoliating 1-4x weekly (depending on your skin type) (avoid scrubs) - Moisturize once in the morning and evening (even oily skin types need a water-based moisturizer) - Consider adding a targeting mask specific to your skin type/issues - Wear SPF daily to prevent hyperpigmentation and discoloration *Avoid tanning beds as they will also contribute to hyperpigmentation*

How often should I get a facial and what are the benefits?

I recommend facials once monthly. Regular facials can improve muscle tone, circulation, strengthen tissue, reduce fine lines, and deeply cleanse the pores. It's also a time to relax and get answers to specific questions if you have any. What a facial will not accomplish: Acne curing in one session, changing your skin type, shrinking your pores, fixing years of damage, make hyperpigmentation disappear, outweigh bad skincare habits.

What is a lash lift?

The keratin lash lift that I offer is a gentle, nourishing treatment which curls your lashes for 6-8 weeks.

What is henna brow?

The henna brow that I offer will last up to 6 weeks. It temporarily fills your eyebrows in, which is nice for those with thin, spotty brows. This is not the same thing as microblading, which requires small slices to be made in the skin that are then filled with colorant.

Which facial do you recommend for me?

Here's a quick breakdown... - Express Facial (good choice for beginner's that want a taste of a facial) - Pure Skin Facial (1 hour that includes facial massage and is a good choice for those that want to relax) - Uptown Facial (1 hour and 15 minutes, great for focused treatment because it includes one "extra") - Luxe Facial (1 hour and 30 minutes, also great for focused treatment and includes two "extra's") Check out the extra's and see if any of them speak to you! If so, I would opt for a facial that includes them. Your extra's can also be chosen by me after I assess your skin!

Why don't you offer lash extensions?

I am not a fan of lash extensions because as a nurse I am too fearful of their long-term effects on your natural lashes. Most glue formulations contain formaldehyde. Additionally, the added weight on your lashes causes damage over time, which will result in your real lashes falling out. They are also a huge risk for infection and eye damage.

Explain chemical peels to me

Chemical peels are beneficial for deep exfoliation, lightening of dark spots, decreasing fine lines and wrinkles, acne management, and fading hyperpigmentation. This application is a combination of exfoliating acids, lightening, and brightening ingredients. You can have a light, medium, or deep depth peel depending on where you go. It is suggested to start with a light peel and work your way up. With each layer of product applied to your skin, the exfoliation will be deeper. Whoever is performing your peel will determine how many layers are safe for your skin. You will likely have a few days of "down-time" following your treatment depending on what kind of peel you receive. Down-time may include: Flaking, redness, tightness, dryness Post peel it's always important to keep your skin moisturized and protected with SPF. Avoid picking at your skin if it flakes. Be gentle and avoid exfoliating during the "healing" process. Your skin will be glowing and refreshed if you follow your practitioners instructions!

In what order should I apply products?

It's up to you how involved you want your skincare routine to be. For a minimalist... AM routine: Cleanser, Moisturizer, SPF PM routine: Cleanser, Moisturizer From there you can add to your regimen. Think about what you want to focus on... hydration, anti-aging, under-eye care, exfoliation. You can slowly add targeted products in as you go. Some tips to go by as your add in products... Serums are applied before moisturizing You can apply more than one serum just go from thinnest to thickest consistency Pat serums in, don't rub Toners are usually applied after cleansing Exfoliating can be done 1-4 times weekly depending on your skin type A hydrating mask is a great way to boost moisturization 1-3 times weekly Under eye serums can be applied with other serums, before moisturizing Apply a pea-sized amount of under-eye serum in a gentle tapping motion, don't rub Using a heavier cream at night will help your skin regenerate and retain moisture if needed

Am I over-exfoliating my skin?

You should really only exfoliate up to four times weekly if you're an oily/normal skin type. Sensitive skin types can keep it 1-3 depending on how the skin reacts. It's all about YOUR skin and how it handles exfoliation. Exfoliating ingredients can be found in cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, etc. It's important to know what's in your products for this reason. If your skin seems to be sensitized, reddened, burning, or irritated then there is a good chance that you're over-doing it. This pearl of advice also applies to retinols!

What's the difference in sensitive and sensitized skin?

Sensitive: Your skin easily flushes and has always been delicate. You have to be careful of what products you apply and may even experience sensitivies to things like certain laundry detergents, lotions, and perfumes. What you can do: Avoid the harsh ingredients that are listed in the "ingredients" FAQ section. Stay moisturized. Wear SPF daily. Avoid known irritants. Sensitized: Your skin hasn't always been irritated, but it has been lately. You sometimes have burning and redness. What you can do: Determine your triggers. There is something that has created this issue for you and it may be product, medications, weather, stress, etc. Once the issue is identified then you can take steps to avoid it. Often times products are the culprit because people frequently use harsh ingredients without recognition. Also staying moisturized is important to maintain your barrier!

What should I look for when trying to find a good vitamin C serum?

10-20% concentration Dark bottling Pale yellow/clear in color Look for: L-ascorbic acid, Ascorbic acid, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, Sodium ascorbyl phosphate (for sensitive skin types) *The Pomegranate Acai Antioxidant serum meets these standards*

I have whiteheads that won't pop. What do I do?

Step away from the mirror! There's a good chance that you have milia. Is your skin oily? Oily and dehydrated skin types are prone to milia because the dead skin cells become trapped under the skin. What you need in your life: Increased exfoliation & a water-based moisturizer. Check out the Mint Poppy Seed Polish & Daily Greens Moisturizer. How to get rid of milia: Schedule an appointment with a professional because these need to be removed with a small incision. They will NOT pop out.

Explain exfoliants to me...

1. PHYSICAL (grainy) 2. CHEMICAL (penetrating) (alpha hydroxy acids & beta hydroxy acids) What I suggest: chemical Why: More effective, not abrasive, dissolve dead skin cells, great for maintenance Chemical Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA's): 1. Glycolic acid: Great for texture & hyperpigmentation improvement, stimulates collagen, safe for all skin types besides sensitive 2. Lactic acid: Improves texture, hyperpigmentation, hydrates, best for sensitive/dry skin 3. Tartaric acid: Antioxidant, improves texture, best for acne-prone/dry skin 4. Malic acid: Brightening, improves texture, collagen boosting, hydrates, safe for all skin types besides sensitive 5. Mandelic acid: Improves texture, hyperpigmentation, best for sensitive/dry/acne-prone skin types *Check out the Blackberry Lime Fruitfoliant & Cherry Pepper Peel* Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA's) 1. Salicylic acid: Best for oily, acne-prone skin types *Check out the Grapefruit Polishing Powder*

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

This "gentle" cleanser contains a very well-known skin irritant- sodium lauryl sulfate. If you are using this and are not happy with your skin then I suggest giving this a toss!

St. Ive's Apricot Scrub

Contains ground fruit pits, which are far too aggressive for the face. Beware of the following: Salt, sugar, cornmeal, fruit pits, ground fruit shells, coffee grounds, microbeads These will create mini-tears in your skin, which exacerbate irritation, inflammation, and acne. Instead look for: jojoba beads, a gentle and biodegradable option *Check out the Mint Poppy Seed Polish*

Biore Pore Strips

These strips rip away good skin cells along with the "gunk." This is not a good way to exfoliate or clean your pores. Regular use of a GENTLE exfoliant will be much more beneficial.

Dove Beauty Bar

Bottom line: this is soap and it's far too alkaline for your skin. It will cause dryness, dullness, flaking, tightness, redness, possible flare ups of eczema, perioral dermatitis, and psoriasis. You need a cleanser that is closer to the pH of your skin, which won't dry you out. If you're a sensitive/dry skin type then I suggest checking out the Apricot Mango Cleansing Milk.

Which products contain nuts?

Apricot Mango Cleansing Milk (Almonds) Mint Poppy Seed Polish (Almonds) Facial In A Bottle (Almond & Shea) The Balm (Almonds & Shea) Yogurt Kale Eye Concentrate (Shea) Rehab Recovery Mask (Shea)

Which products should I avoid while pregnant/nursing?

Grapefruit Polishing Powder (Salicylic Acid) All Night Elixir (Retinol) Chemical Peels

Which products are free of aloe?

Orange You Jelly Cleanser Lychee Willow Bark Deep Cleanser Grapefruit Polishing Powder Spiced Wine Toner Blackberry Lime Fruitfoliant Cherry Pepper Peel Facial In A Bottle Peach & Honey Mask Rosehip Warming Mask Facial Nectar The Balm Avocado Oil Lip Hydrator Tropical Matte SPF 30 Quench & Protect SPF 30

Do any of your products contain soy?

Yes, the All Night Elixir serum.

Which products contain beeswax or honey?

Apricot Mango Cleansing Milk Orange You Jelly Cleanser Mint Poppy Seed Polish Cherry Pepper Peel Peach & Honey Mask Papaya & Pumpkin Mask The Balm

Which products are oil free?

Orange You Jelly Cleanser Watermelon Mint Hydrating Mist Spiced Wine Toner Blackberry Lime Fruitfoliant Main Squeeze Hydrating Serum Pomegranate Acai Antioxidant Serum Peach & Honey Mask Daily Greens Moisturizer Blueberry Milk Moisturizer Aloe Cucumber Eye Gel Quench & Protect SPF 30 Tropical Topical Matte SPF 30

What is the best way to apply serums?

While your skin is still damp and directly after cleansing & toning. Apply serums from thinnest to thickest. If you're using Sorella Apothecary serums then this is the order of lightest to heaviest: Main Squeeze Hydrating Serum Pomegranate Acai Antioxidant Serum Following that, the remaining serums are of equal consistencies and can be applied in any order

Which cleanser & moisturizer are best for my VERY dry skin?

Apricot Mango Cleansing Milk & The Balm Moisturizer. These two are very nourshing, gentle, and effective. Check out the full ingredient list while shopping. PS- "very dry" skin is tight, flaking, dull, and often easily irritated. If you have oily skin with "dry" patches then your skin is likely DEHYDRATED, not dry.

Which serum would you recommend for my acne?

The All Night Elixir contains retinol, which will help heal your acne. If you also have hyperpigmentation from breakouts then I would suggest Facial In A Bottle and/or the Lemon Lightening Serum. Serums are great for targeted treatment. Everyone should have a quality, staple cleanser & moisturizer first, though. Serums are applied before moisturizing while your skin is still damp. For best results apply from thinnest to thickest consistency if you're using more than one at a time. Press into your skin, don't rub.

My skin is oily but I still have dry patches. What do I need?

Your skin sounds dehydrated (lacking water). First, you need a staple cleanser & moisturizer that will address your combination skin. These would be my suggested products for you: Orange You Jelly Cleanser Main Squeeze Hydrating Serum Daily Greens Moisturizer *this is assuming that you have no other skin concerns*

Which facial mask will help my dry skin?

The Rehab Recovery Mask. This can even be worn as a night time mask for extra hydration. Apply as your last step in your regimen.

I want to focus on anti-aging products. What do you recommend?

Anti-aging is all about prevention and protection. Your skin needs to be hydrated and protected daily. If you already have a cleanser and moisturizer that you're happy with then I suggest adding a Vitamin C serum, antioxidants, and physical (not chemical) SPF. Did you know that 80% of skin damage is related to sun exposure? Wear your physical sunscreen daily even if you'll be on the road (UV rays go through your window!). The Pomegranate Acai Antioxidant serum has a 20% blend of Vitamin C and other beneficial antioxidants. The two SPF choices are formulated to block the sun, unlike chemical sunscreens that hold heat to your skin and add to hyperpigmentation.

What will help my blackheads?

Adding an exfoliant to your regimen will help with cleansing your pores. Exfoliants don't have to be scrubbing agents. In fact, I suggest alpha hydroxy acids over physical exfoliants. Check out the three exfoliating options on the shopping page. Each of these pack their own special punch! If you are a sensitive skin type I would start by exfoliating 1-2 times weekly. Oily/Normal skin types may tolerate 3-4 times weekly. The Spiced Wine Toner has exfoliating ingredients like pumpkin enzyme in it that can be used daily if your skin tolerates it.

Returns

At this time, all sales are final. If you aren't happy with your products please contact Pure Skin Esthetics and we will try to make it right.

Shipping

Orders over $100 include free shipping! All other orders will pay a flat rate of $8.

Privacy Policy