Karen S. Kaufman Skin Care

‘Yesterday’s the past, tomorrow’s the future, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present’
- Bil Keane

Never take it for granted.

Skin picking and anxiety are closely related. Skin picking, also known as dermatillomania, is a body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB) characterised by recurring and compulsive picking at one’s own skin, often resulting in skin damage and emotional distress. Anxiety can trigger skin picking behaviors, and conversely, skin picking can exacerbate anxiety.

Some common aspects of skin picking and anxiety include:

1. Stress and emotional regulation: Many individuals with skin picking disorder report using skin picking as a coping mechanism for managing anxiety, stress, and other emotions.
2. Symptom overlap: Skin picking and anxiety share similar symptoms, such as restlessness, tension, and a sense of relief after engaging in the behavior.
3. Co-occurrence: Skin picking disorder often co-occurs with anxiety disorders, such as generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
4. Self-soothing: Skin picking may serve as a self-soothing behavior, providing temporary relief from anxiety and other uncomfortable emotions.
5. Shame and guilt: Individuals with skin picking disorder often experience shame and guilt due to their behavior, which can further contribute to anxiety.

If you’re struggling with skin picking and anxiety, it’s essential to seek professional help from a mental health professional or a skin professional. We can help you develop coping strategies, work through underlying issues, and improve your overall well-being.

This is one of the most common skin disorders that I see in my salon.

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How breathtakingly beautiful is my client on her recent wedding day?

Beautiful both inside & out.

Thank you for trusting me with your skin.
It was such a privilege to prep you for your special day.

Wishing you and your new husband a lifetime of happiness.
📷

It’s a gift to be able to listen and to pause when someone is talking. Sometimes they just need an ear. No comment, no advice just someone to be there. It’s amazing what one can learn when listening and not talking.

Do you think my protein powder which contains Whey, could be contributing to my acne breakouts?

Whey (a dairy by-product) protein powder can potentially exacerbate acne sometimes due to its impact on insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels.

Increased consumption of whey protein can elevate IGF-1 levels, which may stimulate the production of sebum, an oily substance that can clog pores and contribute to acne formation.

Additionally, some people may have sensitivities or allergies to specific ingredients in whey protein, leading to skin inflammation and acne breakouts.

However, it’s essential to note that not everyone experiences acne as a result of whey protein consumption, and individual reactions may vary.

If you suspect whey protein is contributing to your acne, there are many ‘whey free’ alternatives for muscle gain and recovery.

I’d recommend chatting to a naturopath, Chinese herbal practice, dietician or even your personal trainer to find out which is best for you.

Keratosis Pilaris is not acne.

So if you’ve noticed little white rough elevations on your cheeks, upper arms or thighs it is not a serious skin concern.

Although extremely common, these bumps arise when a hair follicle becomes plugged with keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails.

The bumps are sometimes described as feeling rough, or like “goose bumps” or “chicken skin.”

You can thank your parents because KP is usually hereditary.

Please don’t be tempted to pick or scratch at them and using acne products will not clear them.

They are usually worse when your skin is dry. So keep your skin well hydrated and get in touch if you’d like further
recommendations.
You’re welcome x

Fairy tales do come true.

Queen Mary, you are an inspiration and you make us all so proud.

Congratulations to King Frederik X and Queen Mary of Denmark.

Wishing you both a long and happy reign.

Tonight we say goodbye to 2023.

How quickly did that go?

To all of you who have stood by me this year and supported my little business, I am truly grateful.

I am blessed to have you in my life.

I love that you trust me with your skin.

I love that you see changes in your skin.

I love sourcing the best products for you and seeing how much you love them.

I love that you trust me, not only with your skin, but with sharing your personal lives with me.

What a privilege it is to work with you all.

I never take your loyalty and love and trust for granted.

I wish all of you the very best of everything for 2024 and I will still be here beside you, supporting your skin goals.

Thank you,
Karen x
#2024

I’m off at last!

So excited to recharge and soak in the beauty of the sea.

Nothing like fresh air and salty hair!
(With my wide brimmed hat and lashings of SPF50 of course.)

My online store and I will be taking a short break, but fear not – I’ll be back in a week for orders only.

Your orders will be processed on my return after the 22/12.

Throughout the rest of my break my online store will be monitored every few days.

I really appreciate your patience,
and so grateful for your understanding and continued support of my little business.

You guys are the best!

See you soon,
Karen x

Today, on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we must all stand together to raise awareness and take action against all forms of violence towards women and girls.

As I’ve been in my industry for over 30 years and worked predominantly and closely with women and girls, I have seen my fair share of abused and violated women.

It is more common than you could ever imagine.

These women were and are educated and successful women who have succumbed to most horrific domestic violence.

There is no excuse for gender-based violence, ever.

Raise your voice, if you see something, say something. Quite often these women are too terrified and not in a position to seek help.

Ending violence against women and children is everyone’s business.

Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own homes.


Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au

Domestic violence support: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or 1800respect.org.au
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au

Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978

It’s time to check your b***s!

No excuses.

Just check them please.

If you notice anything that looks or feels unusual e.g lumps, bumps, itching, ni**le discharge, puckering or a change in shape then please go straight to your GP.

Oh and this also includes blokes!

Yep, anyone with ni**les can develop breast cancer.

Early detection saves lives. 🍈🍈

Are YOU up to date with your mammogram?

✨GIVEAWAY ALERT ✨

Winners will be announced on this page Wednesday, October 4th at 4pm.

Get ready to glow with Aspect Dr Complete Pigment Serum worth $169!
I’m giving TWO lucky winners the chance to snag this advanced formula that treats pigmentation and ageing and unveils a more even, radiant looking complexion.
It’s perfect for all skin types.

To enter:

✨Follow me on Instagram and Facebook.
✨ Like this post.
✨ Tag as many friends as you like in the comments - each tag is an entry!
✨ Winners will be announced on this page Wednesday, October 4th at 4pm.
✨Hurry, don't miss out on your chance to win!

How true is this?

This is what happens when I spend a week with James Vivian 👸🏼🤴

Today is world gratitude day!

So I’ve taken some time to reflect on what I’m truly grateful for.

The simple truth is that I live a blessed life and there’s endless things that make my life happy.

I feel so lucky.

Too many to count, but here are a few of my favourites

1. My health
2. My two precious sons
3. My loving, supportive husband & extended family
4. My fur babies
6. My gorgeous friends
7. Living in the best city in the world with access to drinking water, the bay, education and medicine
8. Being able to afford the basics and a few luxuries
9. My home and garden
10. My friends
11. My own little business with the most incredible loyal and compliant clients who make my work joyful every day 😘

I never take these things for granted and I focus on the positives in every situation.

I’m a truly grateful.
Every. Single. Day.

Let me know what you are incredibly grateful for today?

Today is world gratitude day!

So I’ve taken some time to reflect on what I’m truly grateful for.

The simple truth is that I live a blessed life and there’s endless things that make my life happy.

I feel so lucky.

Too many to count, but here are a few of my favourites

1. My health
2. My two precious sons
3. My loving, supportive husband & extended family
4. My fur babies
6. My gorgeous friends
7. Living in the best city in the world with access to drinking water, the bay, education and medicine
8. Being able to afford the basics and a few luxuries
9. My home and garden
10. My friends
11. My own little business with the most incredible loyal and compliant clients who make my work joyful every day 😘

I never take these things for granted and I focus on the positives in every situation.

I’m a truly grateful.
Every. Single. Day.

Let me know what you are incredibly grateful for today?

And…. I’m having a little break.
Salon is closed.
I won’t be contactable until Monday 18th September.
Any online orders will be dispatched after Monday 18th September.
Thank you & take care,
Karen x

Nature doesn’t grow or thrive through force or rush.

You are nature.

Grow gently, at your own pace, you beautiful, complicated flower 🌸
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Skin shedding.
Why can it happen after my skin treatment?

After a face peel treatment, the top layer of your skin is intentionally exfoliated or removed. This process called desquamation, stimulates the skin's natural healing response and encourages the growth of new skin cells.
As the new skin cells develop and move upward, the old and dead skin cells on the surface become loosened and eventually shed.
This shedding of the outer layer is what you observe as peeling after a face peel treatment.
It's a normal part of the skin's renewal process and helps reveal smoother, fresher skin underneath.
So if you notice shedding following your treatment, please don’t panic. It’s normal. Once the shedding stops, your skin will look and feel brand new.

Coconut oil vs Acne.
Coconut oil is considered comedogenic, which means it can clog pores and potentially worsen acne breakouts for some people. While it might work well for others, its heavy texture can trap bacteria and dead skin cells, leading to increased inflammation and more pimples. If you have acne-prone skin, it's better to opt for non-comedogenic oils like Aspect Dr Redless which contains anti inflammatory sea buckthorn and always consult a skin professional for personalised advice

Unless of course you ask for their opinion

YOU deserve the best when it comes to anti-aging and treating pigmentation so say a big ‘hello’ to Aspect Essential Duo Age Defying Complex, a high-potency, intensive anti-aging serum, designed to tackle multiple pathways associated with photoaging!

This powerful combination of peptides and natural active ingredients is specially formulated to enhance skin tone and clarity while fighting the effects of premature aging.

My new duo double pump unique serum combo can help you manage hyperpigmentation, brown spots, and discolouration, leaving your skin with a radiant glow.

You'll love how it visibly improves sun damage's appearance while minimising fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion.

I’m totally obsessed with this one and I know you will love it too!

Please DM or call me to order because it’s so darn exclusive that it can’t be purchased online. Your welcome x

Did you know that undergoing IVF and other fertility treatments can have an impact on your skin?

1. Hormonal Changes: Fertility treatments often involve hormonal medications that can lead to fluctuations in hormone levels. These changes may trigger skin concerns such as acne breakouts, increased oiliness, or dryness.

2. Hyperpigmentation: Some women may experience an increase in pigmentation during fertility treatments, particularly on the face. This condition, known as melasma, can result in patches of darker skin. Protecting your skin from sun exposure with sunscreen and wearing hats and using a tyrosinase inhibitor (pigment blocker) can help minimise its appearance.

3. Sensitivity: Hormonal fluctuations can also make your skin more sensitive than usual. It may become reactive to skincare products, causing redness, itching, or irritation. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free products and perform patch tests before introducing new products.

4. Dehydration: Some fertility medications can cause dehydration, which can manifest in your skin. It may appear dull, rough, or flaky. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, limiting tea and coffee and using moisturisers that contain hyaluronic acid can help combat dryness.

5. Emotional Impact: Going through fertility treatments can be emotionally challenging, and stress may affect your skin. It’s so important to have support from friends, family and counsellors to help you through this journey. It's essential to practice self-care, and engage in activities that you enjoy.

I have been extremely privileged over the years to support so many women and their skin during their IVF journey. Nothing better than sharing this precious, yet challenging time and
watching little families grow.

Please reach out if you’re about to embark on IVF or needing skin help or advice pre or post pregnancy

Wear Your Hat.
Protect Your Scalp.

My lovely client recently underwent a basal cell carcinoma (BCC) removal on her scalp.

It was an extremely painful procedure and the margin that was taken wasn’t large enough, so she now has to have it re-done.

It is not a joke when I ask you to wear your hats as well as sunscreen.

The sun's rays can be sneaky and relentless, even on cloudy days. So whether you're strolling down the beach, hiking in nature, or enjoying a picnic in the park, just wear a hat.

Prevention is key, and this post is to remind you that taking care of your skin is a year-round commitment.

Please share this post with your loved ones and tag someone who needs a gentle nudge to wear their hat.

If you notice any change, an itchy patch, a strange looking or bleeding non-healing spot, please go straight to your gp.

Thank you for being awesome and taking care of yourselves.

Remember, fashion and protection can go hand in hand!
**kinghat

Hello I’m back!

My little mini break in Noosa was absolute bliss.

Taking time off work and immersing myself in nature was exactly what my soul needed.

I spent my days slowly and mindfully hiking in and around the national parks, watching the surfers at sunrise and sunset at the beach, nourished my body eating beautiful meals, enjoyed all the local produce, visited and shopped at local markets (and Hastings st) and even went into the hinterland and visited Maleny & Montville.

The weather was also kind and we had only two days of rain. It was truly perfect.

I totally switched off so from tomorrow I will respond to all of your messages.

If you haven't taken a break lately or visited the Sunshine Coast, I highly recommend it!
Looking forward to seeing you all soon
Karen x

📷

Time for me.
Time for some much needed R&R.
Time for me to switch off and to recalibrate.

Salon will reopen on Tuesday 13th June.

In the meantime, I will be completely uncontactable which I must admit is a little exciting.

It’s not often that I get hold space for myself, to breathe, stop and pause.
As I sit here by the ocean, I can feel the negative ions, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the suns warmth (with my hat and SPF50 of course!).

See you on the flip side
Karen x

Welcome to my new followers.

I’m Karen and I’m so delighted to welcome you to my page and my cosy salon.

I’ve been helping my clients achieve optimum skin results now for over three decades.

I absolutely love my work and it’s a privilege to do what I do everyday.

I have honed my skills through years of hands-on practice, continuous education, and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in the skin care industry.

Fostering a warm, welcoming, and client-centred environment is so important to me.

I’ve built meaningful connections with my clients by taking the time to listen, understand your goals, and address any skin concerns you may have.

Creating a comfortable space where you feel heard and supported is of utmost importance to me, as well as anonymity.

If you’d like to get in touch or book an appointment with me, please send me a dm or click on the link in my bio.
I look forward to meeting you soon

Bloody Covid is everywhere again. Luckily this time I’ve been lucky enough (or not lucky enough - being immune compromised) to have access to anti virals.

My skin has really copped it this time, it feels & looks like an arid desert, fragile, dry and lacklustre.

The last thing I’ve felt like doing is my daily skin routine but I have been sipping loads of water, herbal tea and have had the energy to slug my face with a rich moisturising balm.

My go-to is Cosmedix Rescue. Yep, so much Rescue that my sleep mask sticks to my face and when I wake up, it’s still in position. Maybe that’s a good thing?

When I’m 💯(percent that is!) I can’t wait to give myself a gentle exfoliation and a sheet mask. They are seriously the best home treatments ever and will instantly rehydrate, calm and transform my skin.

Otherwise, I’m doing really well.
So very grateful, keeping warm and looked after.

Please reach out if you’re unwell at the moment and I can send you tips and tricks and even products to protect your skin from further irritation.
Take care everyone and please stay safe.
Kx

Thinking of you all today on Mother’s Day.
I am blessed to have two wonderful sons. I never take that for granted.
But I know that Mother’s Day is not an easy day if you’ve lost a mum or are trying desperately to become a mum.
And if you’re estranged or have a complicated relationship with your mum today can be hard for you.
I see you, I hear you and I want you to know that you are loved and appreciated.
I really hope that you have had a wonderful day.
Sending you the biggest hug.
Karen x