Skin | Azza MD Beauty

What Dermatologists Want You to Know About the PDRN Trend

By Mili Godio Among the many unconventional beauty trends circulating today, “salmon sperm facials” may be one of the most attention-grabbing. Scientifically known as PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), the ingredient is derived from salmon DNA and has gained popularity for its potential role in skin repair, hydration, and rejuvenation. According to board-certified dermatologists, PDRN works by supporting the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, reducing inflammation, and improving elasticity. “It’s almost like giving the skin blueprints to rebuild itself,” explains Dr. Mona Gohara, a board-certified dermatologist. While PDRN has recently become popular in the U.S., it has been used for over a decade in countries such as South Korea for wound healing, post-procedure recovery, and skin rejuvenation. Dr. Azza Halim, a multi-specialist physician with a focus on regenerative and aesthetic medicine, notes that PDRN has long been utilized in medical settings to support healing and tissue repair. Though the treatment may sound novel, its medical applications are well documented. There are three primary ways PDRN is used in skin care today: microinjections (skin boosters), microneedling-assisted delivery, and topical products. In-office procedures allow PDRN to penetrate deeper into the skin, activating regenerative pathways and improving overall skin quality. These methods, while not yet FDA-approved in the U.S., are commonly used internationally and performed at the discretion of trained medical professionals. Topical PDRN products, often found in K-beauty serums and masks, are generally considered safe but provide more subtle results. Due to the molecule’s size, topical applications primarily offer surface-level hydration and barrier support rather than deep regenerative effects. When performed in a medical setting using sterile techniques and high-quality products, PDRN treatments are generally regarded as safe. However, dermatologists caution that procedures involving injections or microneedling carry inherent risks, including irritation, infection, or allergic reactions—particularly for individuals with fish sensitivities. Proper screening and professional oversight are essential. Experts emphasize that while PDRN shows promise, it is not a miracle cure. “There is real science supporting its role in wound healing and collagen stimulation,” says Dr. Gohara, “but many of the most dramatic claims extend beyond current cosmetic data.” As with any emerging skin care trend, dermatologists recommend consulting a qualified medical professional to determine whether PDRN-based treatments are appropriate for individual skin goals and health considerations.

Skip the Fillers: Vogue asks Dr Azza Halim

By Sanika Achrekar — December 12, 2025 As the holiday season approaches, packed schedules, late nights, and constant camera exposure can take a toll on skin. According to dermatologists and aesthetic physicians, achieving a refreshed, photo-ready complexion doesn’t require fillers or aggressive treatments. Instead, a combination of targeted, low-downtime procedures can restore glow, smooth texture, and improve overall skin quality. For patients planning ahead, microneedling with salmon DNA (PDRN) or exosomes is often recommended to improve texture, refine pores, and promote long-term skin health. These treatments typically require a few days of recovery, making them ideal in the weeks leading up to major events. For hydration and luminosity, skin boosters placed beneath the surface help restore volume, elasticity, and even tone. These treatments are best scheduled several days in advance to allow any swelling to subside. Closer to event time, dermaplaning combined with Hydrafacial treatments offers immediate results by removing dead skin cells and buildup, allowing makeup to apply more smoothly and evenly. LED therapy and gentle radiofrequency treatments are also popular pre-event options. LED light helps brighten the complexion and calm inflammation, while radiofrequency can subtly tighten the jawline and cheek area, with results peaking within 48 hours. For last-minute refreshment, light chemical peels—such as lactic, mandelic, or glycolic acids—can brighten the skin and improve tone without extended downtime. According to Dr. Azza Halim, multi-specialist physician, the carbon laser peel has become a go-to treatment for reducing oil, minimizing pores, and creating a smooth, matte finish—particularly in warm or humid climates. The treatment requires no downtime and allows patients to return to normal activities immediately. Experts agree that the days immediately before an event are not the time for experimentation. Strong resurfacing treatments and aggressive exfoliants should be avoided in favor of gentle skincare, hydration, vitamin C, and daily sun protection. With the right approach, these expert-recommended treatments help skin look balanced, luminous, and camera-ready, no filters or fillers required.

12 Derm-Approved Oil-Free Makeup Removers for Your Gentlest Cleanse Yet: Well+Good

By: Allison Taylor March 20, 2024 There’s something about an artful smoky eye, a bold lip, and a filter-finish foundation that makes us feel unstoppable! But when it comes to taking off high-impact glam, that’s another story. As someone who loves her long-wear matte lipstick and liquid eyeliner just as much as her (very thorough) skincare routine, I know the struggle well. Yes, it can be a hassle to sweep away every scrap of makeup before I can finally hit the hay, but the alternative—acne flare-ups, oily skin, and smudged sheets—is far less appealing. Enter one of my favorite skincare heroes: oil-free makeup remover. Oil-free makeup remover is a gentle yet effective solution that easily dissolves makeup, dirt, and impurities without disturbing the balance of your skin. As board-certified dermatologist Dr. Anetta Reszko explains, it’s the optimal choice for those with sensitive, mature, or combination skin types. “It’s better to choose an oil-free makeup remover as opposed to an oil-based one, as oil can clog pores if it’s not perfectly removed with an additional cleanser,” she advises. “This helps prevent the occurrence of acne and other unwanted irritation.” While some oil-free makeup removers are designed to be rinse-free, she recommends following up with a mild cleanser to ensure that every last bit of makeup and grime is gone. Oil-free makeup remover comes in many forms, from micellar waters and gels to foams and wipes, which means there’s a wealth of options for every type of routine. In addition to testing several formulas myself, I turned to two board-certified dermatologists to help me round up the very best options for clean, refreshed skin. Read on to see which oil-free makeup removers made the cut. The best oil-free makeup removers, at a glance: Best overall: Bioderma, Sensibio H2O Micellar Water Makeup Remover, $16 Runner-up: IS Clinical, Cleansing Complex, $48 Best splurge: Perricone MD, No Rinse Micellar Cleansing Treatment, $49 Best drugstore option: Garnier, SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water, $12 Best for acne-prone skin: Avene, Cleanance Cleansing Gel, $23 Best for sensitive skin: SkinBetter Science, Cleansing Gel, $48 Best for oily skin: La Roche-Posay, Effaclar Micellar Cleansing Water for Oily Skin, $18 Best for mature skin: Paula’s Choice, Gentle Touch Makeup Remover, $19 Best for eyelash extensions: Velour Lashes, Lash Clean Oil-Free Makeup Remover, $23 Best wipes: Aveeno, Positively Radiant Oil-Free Makeup Removal Facial Wipes (2-Pack), $14 Best foam: ILIA, The Cleanse Soft Foaming Cleanser + Make Up Remover, $32 Best clean formula: Milk Makeup, Hydro Ungrip Makeup Remover + Cleansing Water, $32 Dermatologists agree that it’s important to look for oil-free makeup removers that are water-based and contain humectants, aka ingredients that attract moisture and pull it into the skin. You’ll find humectants like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, urea, and propylene glycol featured throughout our selections. If you have dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, be cautious about products with active ingredients like AHAs (think glycolic and lactic acids), which exfoliate the surface of the skin. While these can be beneficial in small doses, it’s easy to overdo it—especially if you have several products with AHAs in your lineup. View Original Article on Well+Good

Q&A: Physician responds to Kim Kardashian using tanning booth to help psoriasis

Key takeaways: After releasing a viral video that garnered negative attention, Kim Kardashian said she uses her tanning bed for her psoriasis. Physician Azza Halim, MD, explains why this practice is dangerous. When Kim Kardashian recently claimed that her tanning booth soothes her psoriasis, the star received backlash from practitioners and fans alike. It started on Jan. 18, when Kardashian took advantage of the “of course” social media trend to give fans a tour of her luxurious office featuring a wall decorated with her magazine covers, a 3D model of her brain and a glam room with a custom-measured mannequin. She also gave a special cameo of her tanning booth, which sparked immense controversy. When Kim Kardashian recently claimed that her tanning booth soothes her psoriasis, the star received backlash from practitioners and fans alike. While many viewers pointed out that tanning booths cause skin cancer, Kardashian defended herself on social media by saying, “I have psoriasis and it really helps when it’s bad. But I don’t use it too often.” Azza Halim Kardashian was diagnosed with psoriasis in 2011 and while the star claims that the tanning bed helps her psoriasis flares, the National Psoriasis Foundation discourages the therapeutic use of tanning beds, stating this practice “does not support the use of indoor tanning beds as a substitute for phototherapy performed with a prescription and under a health care provider’s supervision.” In the wake of this controversy, Azza Halim, MD, a board certified, multi-specialist physician with a focus in aesthetic and regenerative medicine, spoke to Healio about the dangers of using tanning beds as a therapy for psoriasis. Healio: Do tanning beds help calm psoriasis flares? Halim: Photo/light therapy is an age-old treatment approach for psoriasis, yet it is still not recommended to self-treat with tanning beds. Tanning beds cause sunburn and, although the light exposure may help calm down flare-ups, the risk of skin cancer and photodamage is a concern. Many may turn to tanning beds for summer glow along with treating their psoriasis but, as we all know, psoriasis is an immune condition and using [ultraviolet B] light can decrease the cell turnover associated. That being said, such treatments should be under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. Another treatment option is boosting one’s vitamin D level which often is depleted in such conditions. Therefore, enhancing vitamin D levels as well as vitamin D creams are beneficial. Healio: Should patients with psoriasis use tanning beds? Halim: Tanning beds can actually make things worse if it triggers a sunburn or photodamage. Furthermore, despite some patients thinking tanning beds help their flare-up, we know phototherapy UVB is used as a treatment option, whereas tanning beds are [ultraviolet A], not UVB. Many patients are not aware of this difference. Therefore, I do not recommend tanning beds as treatment options. For UVA to be utilized, one needs to add a light-sensitizing medication first. The reason natural sunlight in the summer is more beneficial for patients with psoriasis is that the sun emits both UVA and UVB. However, one must still avoid photodamage and always use sun protection. Healio: What are healthy alternatives to tanning booths for calming psoriasis flares in the winter? Halim: As we know, cold dry winter months can dry out skin and add to a psoriasis flare-up. After showering or cleansing, patients should always moisturize with an emollient to protect the skin as well apply vitamin D cream and add a topical retinoid. There are also key triggers to flare-ups that patients should avoid including scratching, alcohol consumption and stress. If interested, patients can also consider professional phototherapy. Reference: Kim Kardashian shares videos of her psoriasis and her hack for easing the symptoms. Updated Jan. 31, 2024. Accessed Feb. 16, 2024. Phototherapy. Updated Dec. 21, 2022. Accessed Feb. 19, 2024. View the Original Article on Healio

Doctor-Approved SPF Lip Balms for Year-Round Protection: Marie Claire

Sun safety never looked so good. By Gabrielle Ulubay Published 29 January 2024 I don’t know about you, but I won’t step out my door without applying my favorite sunscreen. Whether the weather is sunny or cloudy, hot or cold, UV rays can cause skin damage like premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer. But even if you’re wearing sunscreen on your face, neck, and other exposed patches of skin, there’s one part of the body you’re likely forgetting about: your lips. “The skin on the lips is much thinner than anywhere on the face and body,” says Dr. Azza Halim, who specializes in anti-aging and aesthetic medicine. “The lips are unable to maintain water hydration and do not have the same barrier for protection as the face, which is why also lips get chapped easily and are more prone to dryness. Sun exposure contributes to water loss and can get sunburnt which in turn can contribute not only to chapped lips but fine lines and wrinkles as well.” To prevent fine lines and damage to the lips, it’s essential to opt for a lip balm that not only contains moisturizing ingredients, but that also protects lips from the sun. Below, the best lip balms that provide SPF protection, including a few of Dr. Halim’s favorites. What to Look for in an SPF Lip Balm First things first, when shopping for a lip balm, it’s best to look for one that contains effective, nourishing ingredients. After all, dry and damaged lips are more susceptible to further damage. “We know that the thinnest areas of skin, which also lack oil glands, are the lips, under the eyes, and the neck, which is why various products are needed to maintain hydration and moisture in those areas,” says Dr. Hazim. “A few ingredients of benefit to look for in a lip balm include castor seed oil, ceramides, shea butter, zinc oxide, and white petrolatum to help lock in moisture, which is why some use Vaseline.” But before using your new SPF lip balm, it’s best to ensure that your lips are ideal canvasses for product. “Always exfoliate lips once a week with a gentle sugar scrub so that products can be absorbed,” says Dr. Hazim. Then, once you’ve sloughed off all that pesky dead skin, your lips are ready for a nourishing balm. But, much like the sunscreen you use on the rest of your body, lip balm must be reapplied throughout the day in order to retain effectiveness. “Lip dryness is a result of a lack of oil glands, and also a lack of protective barrier,” Dr. Hazim explains, adding that licking one’s lips or not drinking enough water can exacerbate dryness. Meanwhile, eating, drinking, and wiping one’s mouth can remove lip balm and necessitate reapplication throughout the day. She also says that certain lip balm ingredients, like fragrance and menthol, can cause dryness and lip sensitivity, so it’s important to avoid these when shopping for a hydrating, protective lip balm. THE BEST SPF LIP BALMS Best Reparative SPF Lip Balm: Aquaphor Lip Repair + Protect Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $5 Best Flavored SPF Lip Balm: PLAY Lip Shield SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm, $10 Best Tinted SPF Lip Balm: Cay Skin Isle Lip Balm SPF 30 with Sea Moss and Aloe Stem Cells, $15 Best SPF Lip Oil: COOLA Classic Liplux Organic Hydrating Lip Oil Sunscreen SPF 30, $18 Best SPF Lip Gloss: Colorescience Sunforgettable Lip Shine SPF 35, $42 View the Original Article on Marie Claire

Exosome Skin Care Promises To Mimic the Firming Results of the Famed ‘Vampire Facial’ at Home—But Does It Actually Work?

By: Zoe Schaeffer By now you’ve probably heard about PRP (aka “vampire” facials) popularized by certain celebrities on Instagram a few years ago. The now-common in-office treatment consists of drawing one’s blood and then spinning it in a centrifuge to isolate the platelet-rich plasma, which is then injected back into the skin. These platelets are packed with growth factors that can help regenerate and heal, making them ideal to use not only for facials but for hair rejuvenation and even sports injuries. Now, the door to the ways these platelets are used in skin care is opening a little wider. A few pioneering skin-care companies are using human-derived platelets (also referred to as platelet-derived exosomes) in topical skin care, which may make getting the benefits of the invasive (and expensive) PRP treatment easier and less painful. Azza Halim, MD, a board-certified physician and anesthesiologist in Boca Raton, Florida says that the news about human-derived platelets in topicals is exciting because our platelets include a “mega” amount of growth factors that can benefit skin rejuvenation like little else. But is this an industry breakthrough, or simply a great idea in a jar? “The question is, how do we maximize the benefits of the products by delivery method?” Dr. Halim posits. “Because delivery is key.” We spoke to doctors, nurses, and industry leaders to learn their thoughts on this new frontier. How platelet-derived exosomes are being used in skin care While the current research shows promise in the efficacy of using topical platelets, it should be noted that so far, the studies have all been backed by Rion Aesthetics, the owner of Plated Skin Science. Plated Skin Science is currently the only brand to use non-individualized human-derived platelets in skin care (i.e., platelets from a stranger). Alisa Lask, the brand’s CEO, says platelet-derived exosomes are the ideal topical skin-care ingredient because they deliver clear and effective messages to the body to rejuvenate and renew skin. “Other cellular-derived exosomes, like MSCs—or stem cells—require extensive manipulation to obtain the exosomes and may require refrigeration to ensure the effectiveness of a product,” she explains. “This is the first and only shelf-stable skin-care solution that harnesses the power of platelets to truly combat the signs of aging.” For those who don’t like the idea of putting someone else’s blood on their skin, Some offers another way to achieve similar results. Much like a PRP treatment, the brand uses extracted plasma from one’s own blood and mixes it into a custom serum. But unlike Plated, which can be purchased online without refrigeration, Some requires a participating physician to administer the treatment and send a three-month supply of the refrigerated mixture home with patients. If this a bit sounds familiar, it’s because you may recall how years ago, the now-famous facialist Dr. Barbara Sturm sent editors and celebrities home with “blood cream,” a moisturizer that was infused with their own spun plasma. While it was considered over-the-top at the time, she may actually have been ahead of the curve. Are human-derived platelets safe? Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to using anything on your skin, especially if it’s derived from humans. Lask says that Plated sources their platelets safely and ethically from FDA-regulated blood banks to ensure clean extractions. “We purchase unused platelets prior to expiration, then purify and pool them to harness a high volume of stable and consistent rejuvenating exosomes,” she says, adding that Rion’s patented manufacturing process can yield over 1 trillion exosomes in every bottle. Kristina Kitsos, RN, a registered aesthetic nurse in Los Angeles, stresses the importance of learning about sourcing through your practitioner if you are going to use exosomes topically (or do your research if you are purchasing products online). “This includes not only the type of bodily tissue from which they are harvested, but also the country of origin and how the donors are screened to ensure there is no contamination of the biological material,” she says. “Another variable to keep in mind is the storage and transportation of the exosomes, since they can be susceptible to degradation from the elements.” Amy Wechsler, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist in New York City, has other concerns about the use of platelets in topical skin care. “They can’t use actual platelets because that is a blood product that is highly regulated,” she says. (Anything derived from humans is considered a drug.) “Plus, there is no science on topical platelets that I am aware of.” (Lask counters that Plated uses platelet extracts, not whole platelets). Does it work? Lask says that Plated’s “Renewosome” technology is a proprietary process that yields a high concentration of intact, platelet-derived extract from exosomes. She says that Plated is so game-changing because the potent antioxidants and growth factors pretty much address every skin concern — from supporting the natural production of collagen and elastin to improving red and brown spots and increasing hydration for a more balanced complexion. They point to their own clinical research as examples of how much skin can improve after only six weeks. (The results are impressive). But some experts echo Halim’s curiosity as to how much platelet-rich skin care can reallybenefit one’s skin. Kitsos questions its ability to make much of a difference, as platelets’ molecular size presents a challenge when it comes to penetration (an issue that often calls other actives in topical products into question). “Most scientists agree that although these kinds of exosomes are nanoparticles, they cannot penetrate the skin on their own and need to be injected or micro-needled in order to penetrate,” she says. Halim says that actives need to break the stratum corneum in order to properly make a difference, and that is typically done by creating micro-damages through needling. What is the future of platelet-derived exosomes? The jury’s still out on whether skin care packed with platelets will revolutionize the anti-aging market. The science looks promising, but there are still some uncertainties when it comes to using anything from humans in

Hyaluronic Acid is Here to Save Your Dry Skin: Coveteur

All your questions about hyaluronic acid answered including our top serum picks. By : Ama Kwarteng If you’ve stepped into a Sephora—or any beauty store, really—chances are, you’ve seen the words hyaluronic acid written on the packaging for serums, moisturizers, and creams. Or if you have a skincare-obsessed friend (we all have at least one in our lives), you’ve probably heard them casually dropping the phrase during conversations. Hyaluronic acid is one of those words that get through around without a ton of context, making it hard to understand what it actually is and why it’s in every skincare product. So, we reached out to Dr. Zenovia Gabriel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Zena Medical, Dr. Brian Hibler, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group, and Dr. Azza Halim, MD, board-certified physician and founder of Azza MD, to get some answers. Keep reading to find out what hyaluronic acid is, what it does for your skin, and the best hyaluronic serums to add to your routine. What is hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by our skin cells, says Dr. Zenovia, and helps skin look plump and supple. “The largest amounts of hyaluronic acid can be found in the skin, connective tissues, and eyes,” adds Dr. Zenovia. When it comes to skincare, hyaluronic acid is applied topically as a humectant holding up to 1,000 times its molecular weight in water, she says. That means that it helps draw moisture into the skin while also retaining water in the skin. In addition to being found in skincare products, hyaluronic acid can be manufactured; it comes in a clear substance and is used as an injection in facial folds and wrinkles as dermal filler, explains Dr. Zenovia. What are the skincare benefits of hyaluronic acid? There’s a reason why hyaluronic acid is an ingredient in so many topical skincare products—it works to hydrate and plump the skin and improve skin’s elasticity, while also reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, says Dr. Hibler. Our skin’s level of hyaluronic acid decreases with age, so incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum, moisturizer, or cream into your skincare routine can help maintain moisture levels over time. “The primary benefits include replenishing moisture loss, combating dryness, and restoring the appearance of healthy, hydrated skin,” says Dr. Zenovia. Plus, hyaluronic acid can help strengthen your skin barrier and protect it from environmental aggressors. “Dehydrated skin appears dry, rough, and flaky, and does a worse job at acting as a barrier to irritants and damage from the environment,” explains Dr. Hibler. As an aesthetic injectable, hyaluronic acid is used in dermal fillers to add volume and contour. Who should be using hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid is one of the few ingredients that actually works well with all skin types, but it’s especially great for anyone who needs more hydration—that doesn’t just mean people with dry skin. Dr. Zenovia loves to recommend hyaluronic acid serums, moisturizers, and creams for patients with oily skin because hyaluronic acid works to hydrate the skin and balance out moisture levels without using any additional oils. Dr. Hibler also suggests using eye creams formulated with hyaluronic acid for anyone who struggles with dry, crepey skin or wrinkles around their eye area. Are there negative effects to using hyaluronic acid? For most people, there aren’t any major side effects from applying hyaluronic acid. The skincare ingredient rarely causes allergic reactions, explains Dr. Zenovia, because it’s a substance that’s naturally found in our body. But just in case there’s a fragrance or preservative in the formula that you may be sensitive to, she recommends testing new skincare products on a patch of skin before slathering it all over your face. How does hyaluronic acid fit into your skincare routine? Dr. Zenovia recommends incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum in moisturizer into your nighttime routine. (And if your skin is extra-dry, add them into your morning routine, too.) “I also love using a hyaluronic acid serum before I apply my concealer,” she adds. “It fills in lines and prevents your concealer from caking up.” Dr. Zenovia also suggests applying a hyaluronic acid serum while your skin is still damp to improve water retention for dewy, supple skin. Hyaluronic acid also plays well with other skincare ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and other antioxidants, says Dr. Hibler. Dr. Halim also suggests applying hyaluronic acid with vitamin C or on its own underneath a moisturizer or cream to seal in the skin’s hydration. And if you’re using a retinoid, you’ll definitely want to consider working hyaluronic acid into your routine on the nights when you’re not applying the retinoid. Not only does it pair well with retinoids (a group that includes retinol) to help build more collagen, but it also works to stave off the drying effect retinoids can have on the skin, explains Dr. Hibler. Our top picks: The best hyaluronic acid serums SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier With 1.3% hyaluronic acid, this serum is extremely effective when it comes to delivering hydration. In addition to boosting your skin’s moisture levels, it’s also formulated with ingredients like licorice root and purple rise to improve the skin’s overall texture. SKINCEUTICALS $110 BUY NOW Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum Formulated with not one but two types of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, this serum locks in moisture and protects skin from environmental stressors. You’re sure to notice a softer and more plump complexion. LA ROCHE-POSAY $40 BUY NOW Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum This hydrating concoction has three antioxidant-rich plums, vegan collagen, silk proteins, plus hyaluronic acid, to strengthen the skin barrierwhile also addressing dullness and dehydration. It also absorbs into the skin quickly and leaves your skin smooth, supple, and prepped for makeup. GLOW RECIPE $45 BUY NOW Triple Peptide + Oasis Serum Supercharged with peptides and plant extracts, this lightweight serum goes on smooth and locks in moisture without leaving a sticky residue in its wake. YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE $54 BUY NOW Tea Elixir Niacinamide

Skin resurrection: our top picks to warm the winter beauty blues

by Jody Miller Winter seems to appear out of nowhere. It happens every year, but we’re somehow taken off guard by the sudden crispy days and swiftness of nightfall. Predictably, we mourn the loss of extended sunlight and life outdoors. But where there is loss, there is always gain. We’re anxious to unleash the jewelled make-up colours lying dormant all summer. Those nude lipsticks of summer now appear pallid and barren compared to ripe reds and wine, while our skin appears depleted or lifeless seemingly overnight. The truncated daylight hours mean extended hours spent indoors. Why not use this time to elevate your skin care routine and allow a few extra moments of extra attention to what may have been neglected the preceding months? Drenching skin with essential moisturizer and nutrients can resurrect skin from dormancy to vigorous life. According to Dr Azza Halim, ‘Choosing the best moisturizer for your skin may require some trial and error, but looking for moisturizers with highly effective humectant, emollient, and occlusive ingredients can help guide you.’ To help guide your selection, our winter beauty picks are chosen for their restorative properties utilizing ingredients that cultivate lasting skin and environmental well-being. No longer mutually exclusive, you can now pamper and prep your skin for winter without compromising on quality or care for the planet. Read the full article on lucierouge.com

Review: We Found the Best Face Moisturizers For Men Who Want Their Mighty Glow Back

by David Komisarchik Excerpt: Why Should Guys Moisturize? Remember, your skin isn’t just for looks, it’s a barrier. It’s your first line of defense against bacteria and potential infection. We’re not trying to scare you, but some of us need to remember that skincare is about your health and not your selfies. According to board-certified multi-specialist physician Dr.Azza Halim, “Moisturizing the skin helps keep skin supple, maintains healthy skin barrier in order to minimize environmental damage, and premature aging.” There are three steps to consider when it comes to having a complete skincare routine: washing/cleansing, hydrating/moisturizing, and protecting with SPF. These all help your skin stay free of bacteria and function the way it should. Dry, unmoisturized skin cracks and gets irritated. Moisturized skin, however, keeps you looking fresh. Your face, neck, and ear skin cells maintain a shorter life cycle, constantly drying, shedding, and replacing themselves. That constant turnover makes those areas more vulnerable to excessive dryness and aging. When you start noticing signs of aging, it might be because your skin isn’t functioning like it’s supposed to. The ultimate goal here is balance. Yes, that iridescent skin glow that everyone obsesses over is really nice to look at, but it’s also a sign of healthy skin that’s been taken care of. Bottom line — don’t treat your face skin like the skin on your elbows. While you’re at it, maybe throw one of the best men’s moisturizers there too. Read the full article on Spy.com

Your Compulsive Pimple Picking May Be More Serious Than You Think

By Thalia M. Espana Anyone who has dealt with acne knows it isn’t an enjoyable experience. There’s both physical and emotional pain that sometimes accompanies it. It is a skin condition in which pores become clogged, forming what are known as pimples. Acne appears in different forms or lesions, bumps, or pimples known as whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, or nodules. Unfortunately, many factors such as the environment, stress, or hormones can lead to acne. In fact, 73.3% of adults over 20 reported having acne in a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. These constant lesions or pimples on the skin most commonly occur on the face, neck, or back, but acne can happen anywhere on the body. Because of their pesky presence, many people with acne start forming the habit to pick at or pop their pimples. And while doing it every now and then may seem harmless, building the habit of compulsively picking at your skin can be more harmful than you may think, often identified through a skin condition known as acne excoriée (via DermNet). What is acne excoriée? Board-certified multi-specialist physician, Dr. Azza Halim, M.D., tells Women’s Health that compulsively picking at your acne can leave behind scabs, scars, and pigmentation. This skin-picking behavior is called acne excoriée where “one compulsively is picking, scratching, or squeezing acne or pimples,” Dr. Halim explains. “People are not born with acne excoriée,” Dr. Halim adds. “Trait disorders, learned behaviors, life stressors — all can be contributing factors.” Most often, acne excoriée is born out of a habitual response to other factors. Read more on Glam

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