Skin Care Tricks and Tips: Linda Carpenter, LME

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A little info about R+F's 3 wonderful serums!! 🥰

Why should I add a serum to my Regimen?
Serums are high-powered, concentrated fluids formulated specifically to help you achieve various skincare goals.

When do I apply the serum?
When adding a serum to a Regimen, add it before the treatment step. This will be step three in the Redefine, Reverse, and Unblemish, and step two in Spotless, Soothe and Recharge.

How do I layer serums?
When layering with serums, apply the thinner formula first. If both serums are about the same in viscosity, then you want to choose the serum designed to target your chief skincare concern first. Then, apply the second one on top.

💡 Total RF Serum - Our most comprehensive anti-aging serum features RF TriEnergy Complex that energizes millions of surface skin cells by 200% to address all key signs of skin aging.

🌟 Intensive Renewing Serum - Plump fine lines + visibly lift sagging skin with the most potent form of Vitamin A you can get without a prescription.

💦 Active Hydration Serum - Instantly boosts hydration levels by 200% + locks in moisture on the surface of the skin.

What is hair made of? Is it dead or alive, or both?

The hair on your head is made up two components, one that’s alive and one that is dead. The living part under the skin, is called the follicle and the non-living part, made up of keratin, forms the visible shaft or strand. Under a microscope the hair shaft looks to be covered in roof shingles or fish scales. These are dead cells made up primarily of a hard protein called keratin, and are called cuticles. Just like shingles or scales, healthy cuticles lie flat and protect the inner structure of the hair shaft from damage. Damaged cuticles, either through exposure to harsh chemicals, environmental factors or otherwise, can expose the inner structure of the hair shaft, weakening the hair and leading to increased breakage. Likewise, damaged or lifted cuticles make the surface of the hair rougher, making the hair appear dull, increasing the friction between individuals strands, compounding tangling and reducing manageability.

Forming a very thin layer on the cuticle is a coating of a natural lipid (or oil, called 18-MEA) which further protects the hair from environmental damage and provides shine, waterproofing (hydrophobicity) and reduces the friction between individual shafts. If this natural oil coating is stripped off, either by over-washing or harsh treatments, the hair can become dull, weaker and more difficult to manage.

How does hair grow, and why is the scalp so important for hair?

The living part of hair, the root or follicle, is embedded in the scalp, where specialized cells are continually dividing, drawing energy and nutrients from the scalp and pushing out the growing hair shaft. Hair growth, which for normal individuals is about ½ inch or 1-2 ounces per month, is the one of the most energy intensive processes in the body.[1]

Hair also grows in phases, with the growth phase lasting up to six years after which the strand briefly pauses before detaching from the scalp and falling out to be replaced by a new hair from underneath. Roughly 1% of your hair is in this shedding phase, meaning for an individual with a normal head of hair (approximately 100,000 stands) the average amount of shedding is around 50-100 hairs / day.[2]

So, what can we learn from skincare?

There’s undoubtedly a trend in haircare to look to skincare for inspiration and new technologies which can support optimal health for the scalp and hair[3]. This is called the skinification of hair, but is there anything to it?

The answer is, yes and no. The skin on your scalp is similar to the skin on your face but with some key differences:

Your scalp skin has a lower functioning “barrier function” meaning that the scalp is more prone to water loss and greater inflammation. Inflammation can easily lead to scalp irritation and trigger potential hair loss.
Your scalp is more highly vascularized in order to provide the follicle with all the nutrients and energy they need to continually make new hairs.
Your scalp has a unique microenvironment different than your face.
Overall, this means some of the key principles of skincare can be applied, but adapted to reflect these physiological differences. Hydration of the scalp is important as are addressing any effects of environmental aggressors such as pollution, UV and other aggressors, which may accelerate the natural aging processes.

Cross-over skincare ingredients for haircare include:

Hyaluronic acid for hair

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a great way to bring moisture to both hair and scalp, increase volume and reduce frizz. HA is a natural component of the skin, including scalp skin, and helps retain water and improve physical resilience. HA can be good for hair strands too, increasing volume, reducing frizz and improving shine. HA comes in different sizes or “molecular weights”, for the best results, be sure to look for optimized ratios of both high and low molecular weights.

Amino acids for hair

Amino acids are important because they are the building blocks of hair and can therefore strengthen the structure of hair and potentially repair surface damage, improving hair luster and shine and even providing some color-fade protection. Amino acids also make up part of the scalp skin’s natural moisturizing factors, which help the scalp skin remain hydrated and reduce the potential for irritation.

Bio Ceramides for hair

In skincare ceramides are synonymous with hydration and in haircare it’s no different. R+F uses bio ceramides to smooth the hair and improve flexibility. Improving the surface hydrophobicity of the hair strand can increase volume and shine.

Tri-energy Complex for hair

R+F TriEnergy Complex is an exclusive, patent-pending technology that blends Sandalwood, Indian Kino Extract and Omega 6 Fatty Acid into a unique ratio for maximum potency. The Ayurvedic inspired complex has been shown to improve the strength of the skin barrier, meaning it helps the scalp retain more water. The TriEnergy complex also energizes surface skin cells, and we already know energy is super important for healthy hair.

Acetyl Glutamine (AG) for hair

Acetyl glutamine is a form of glutamine modified to make it easier to formulate into topical products. Glutamine is a multipurpose amino acid found throughout the body. Although not commonly used in skincare or haircare, research by Rodan and Fields has shown the molecule to be beneficial in a number of ways including energy production.

Why two haircare regimens?

Just like our skincare products, R+F haircare products are developed, not for specific hair types, but around concerns; volume and smoothing. The Volume+ Regimen is directed towards creating fuller, thicker, more voluminous-looking hair, with less fall out due to breakage. The Smooth+ Regimen is designed to hydrate and repair, reduce frizz and increase shine. Either regimen is suitable for all hair types.
Simon Craw, PhD

If I have ever approached you about joining me in business, or if I approach you in the future, it's because I see traits in you that would enable you to have great success. YOU might not see the potential of this business and what it can do for you, but I DO!!! 😍 I’m so glad someone believed in me. 🙏🏼 I see a gift in you and FOR YOU!! A life. A dream. A future.

If you are not interested or not ready, I'm completely OKAY with that. I'm not out to drag people into this business. If I have to drag you INTO it, then I'll have to drag you THROUGH it and that's NOT what I do.

Think of it this way... my table is always set for a feast and I provide all the utensils you need to devour it. If you're hungry for a change, then pull up a chair, dream with me and have at it! If you're not, then no worries. I'm not going to force feed you. My table is bountiful and those around it will have an opportunity for a completely different trajectory of their life, than those who aren’t.... there is PLENTY of opportunity to go around. 🤗

So... when you get hungry, I WILL BE HERE and I can promise you that my table will ALWAYS have room for YOU!! ❤


HYDRATORS VS MOISTURIZERS: WHATS THE DIFFERENCE?

Skin is composed of 64% water, so hydration and moisture are kind of a big deal when it comes to skincare. But a supersized jug of water won’t necessarily get you the healthy skin you’re looking for—you may need a hydrator, a moisturizer or both.

The words hydrator and moisturizer are often used interchangeably, yet they aren’t the same thing. In fact, a person could have dehydrated but moisturized skin, or hydrated but dry skin. Understanding the difference between these two products can help you target your skin’s specific needs.

Let’s start with hydrators. These products help bring water to the skin cell itself. This doesn’t just improve appearances; it also increases your skin’s ability to absorb moisture and nutrients. Dehydrated cells = lackluster skin. Hydrated cells = healthy, radiant skin. You know which to choose.

Now let’s talk about moisturizers. Once your skin is hydrated, you can apply a moisturizer to help lock in hydration. The oils in moisturizers prevent water from evaporating off of your beautifully hydrated skin to keep it smooth and soft.

How do I know what my skin needs?

If hydrators increase your skin’s water content and moisturizers seal that moisture into your skin, which do you need?

Increasing fine lines and wrinkles or a dull lackluster complexion indicate you’re likely dealing with parched, dehydrated cells. So start with hydration. The easiest way to do that is to drink enough water. If that first step doesn’t get you the radiant skin you’re looking for, you may need to add a topical hydrator. (But don’t stop drinking that water!)

Hydrators are usually serums, and some of the best include hyaluronic acid. These fun little molecules are also naturally produced by our bodies and hold up to 1000 times their weight in water. Since we produce less hyaluronic acid as we age, an extra boost of hyaluronic acid from a quality hydrator is just the ticket to help plump skin cells and reduce the visibility of fine lines. As you shop for hydrators, look for products that also include glycerin, propylene glycol or urea to get the best hydration possible.

Now, what if you’re completely hydrated and are experiencing dry, flaky skin? This could be a sign that you need a moisturizer because your skin isn’t locking in its hydration. Hydration makes our skin soft, but it won’t stay that way if there is no oil to protect it from evaporating. Moisturizers are key here.

Selecting the right moisturizer can seem overwhelming when there are so many varieties, but with some trial and error you can find your perfect match. First, consider your skin type. Sensitive skin may respond better to a hypoallergenic moisturizer. Oily skin will likely prefer a lighter, oil-free product. Dry skin responds best to a richer moisturizer with ingredients like shea or cocoa butters, ceramides, or dimethicone. And remember—what works for you in the drier winter months may not be what your skin needs during the humid dog days of summer. With some patience (and flexibility!) you can find exactly what works best for your skin.

What if I have acne-prone or oily skin?

Toners and cleansers can strip skin of its natural oils and reduce hydration. This can cause your skin to compensate by producing even more oil to protect itself. Consequently, the wrong toner or cleanser used on your skin may cause your skin to become even more oily and congested, so make sure you are choosing something gentle with these products.

If you find yourself caught in this cycle, your skin likely needs hydration and a new cleanser. Begin your routine with a gentle cleanser that is milky or creamy in texture and consider adding a hydrating serum to your routine. You’ll probably love the results!

So, the next time you’re looking to improve your health and appearance, consider hydrators and moisturizers. Adding these simple products to your skincare routine may just help you fall in love with your skin.

-Emily Giddings, RN

There are some pretty hearty myths out there that seem to survive - Even as scientific evidence proves them wrong. Let's put these myths to rest once and for all:

MYTH #1: THE SUN IS GOOD FOR YOUR ACNE

FALSE!! First of all — and we’re hoping this isn’t news to you — there is no such thing as a healthy tan! Sun exposure damages skin and what you see as a “tan” is the body’s reaction to this injury. Sometimes people with acne think the sun will dry out their blemishes. UNFORTUNATELY, SUN EXPOSURE AGGRAVATES ACNE. Small amounts of sun exposure may appear to help your acne at first, as the blue band of visible light helps to sterilize acne bacteria. But sun exposure eventually leads to shedding dead skin cells which clogs pores, a crucial step in the acne cycle. And in some instances, sun exposure leads to post-acne dark marks.

MYTH #2: SUNSCREEN CAUSES ACNE

FALSE!! We recommend a noncomedogenic sunscreen, which won’t clog pores. In fact, it’s important to protect all skin, including acne-prone skin, from the sun. See Myth #1 above!

MYTH #3: IF YOU HAVE ACNE, YOU CAN’T USE MOISTURIZER

FALSE!! There are plenty of people who have both dry skin and acne, and moisturizer helps skin feel more comfortable. Just make sure you’re using a noncomedogenic moisturizer, or hydrating serum. (Yes, there is a difference) Moisturizing can actually help reduce shine, as oil production can be the result of too-dry skin overcompensating with oil.

MYTH #4: ATTACKING ACNE BY STRIPPING OIL FROM YOUR
SKIN AND SCRUBBING IT SENSELESS IS A GOOD IDEA

FALSE!! Drying the skin’s surface with ingredients like rubbing alcohol leaves the skin parched and irritated, with greater susceptibility to infection. And be wary of harsh scrubs containing things like apricot pits. They can tear your skin, in which case your acne may take longer to heal and leave behind scars.

MYTH #5: SPOT TREATMENTS ARE THE BEST WAY TO TREAT ACNE

FALSE!! Spot treatments may help dry up a new pimple, but that pimple started forming WEEKS before you were aware of its existence! That’s why you should manage the entire acne cycle with a full-face approach. Acne is treated most effectively through prevention, not spot by spot.

MYTH #6: ACNE IS CAUSED BY EATING GREASY FOODS, CHOCOLATE OR CAFFEINE

FALSE!! Medical studies have found that diet — including chocolate, pizza, potato chips and French fries — rarely affects acne. Of course, we’re not suggesting you rush out to binge on any of those foods, they’re bad for you for a host of reasons, acne just isn’t one of them. There is some research that links a high glycemic diet — processed foods and simple sugars like breads — to breakouts.

MYTH #7: ACNE CAN BE CURED

FALSE!! There is no cure for acne. But like other skin conditions, you can help prevent and control mild to moderate acne blemishes. Our SPOTLESS and UNBLEMISH Regimens work with each step of the acne cycle to deal with the specific cause of blemishes. You just have to use the Regimens consistently to keep acne in check. Eventually you may use these less frequently but keeping a consistent skin care routine is vital.

MYTH #8: ACNE IS YOUR FAULT

FALSE!! This is perhaps the most damaging myth because it exacerbates the feelings of shame or embarrassment that often accompany acne. Acne is not — and never will be — your fault. It’s caused by a combination of factors including genetics, hormones, bacteria, clogged pores, stress, medications, irritation, even traveling. Many of these factors you cannot control. What you can control is how you manage your skin condition on a day-to-day basis.

MYTH #9: GLASS CLEANER AND TOOTHPASTE GET RID OF
PIMPLES

FALSE!! We’re not sure where this myth originated, but it really doesn’t matter because it’s not true! Household cleaners are harsh and toothpaste is, well, for your teeth. Neither should ever be used on your skin. In fact, both can irritate skin. Use only clinically tested ingredients such as Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid to effectively address your acne, and each should be used with a full-face approach that prevents blemishes from forming in the first place, not spot treatments.

So thankful for all that RF has given me.

Skin needs special care in the Winter months. Read here for the Best Tips for Winter Dryness!

10 Tricks for Getting Rid of Dry Skin, According to Dermatologists Wintertime doesn't have to mean painful, cracked hands.

FACT OR FICTION??
***YOUR SKIN GETS USED TO INGREDIENTS SO YOU SHOULD SWITCH PRODUCTS PERIODICALLY***

FICTION.
Many variables can affect the daily results you experience from using your skincare Regimen, but your skin alone will not become immune over time to the clinical benefits of the products. Product efficacy depends on a variety of things, such as the active ingredients in a formula and your skin’s changing needs. Therefore, there’s no need to change your Regimen unless you develop new skin concerns.

Overall, most skincare products will take up to 12 weeks to deliver their maximum corrective results, so be patient. Certain skincare ingredients, like antioxidants, emollients and sunscreen, are well-tolerated by skin and will remain just as effective over time. However, you may opt to gradually increase concentrations of skin-sensitive retinoids, glycolic acid and niacin, once your skin can better tolerate them. To help boost motivation and track your results, take a “before” photo when you start a new Regimen and then take weekly “after” shots so you can see evidence of your skin’s transformation.

If a product seems less effective, consider whether changes in age, lifestyle or climate may be affecting your skin. Try taking a break from your Regimen for a few weeks to see how your skin responds. Because skin is hydrated primarily from the outside, evaluate your environment and adapt your skincare products accordingly.

Although you might not see the same rapid progress you enjoyed in the first weeks, it doesn’t mean the products have stopped working. Your skin may have reached its maximum benefit and be in “maintenance mode” while the products quietly sustain those initial benefits at a more optimal level.

Ultimately, don’t switch from a Regimen that has worked well for your skin. Remember, compliance with a skincare Regimen is key to achieving great results.

Comment below with your skincare success stories and tell us how your patience paid off!

Source: DermRF Blog

Have you noticed an increase in acne breakouts since masks have become the new norm? Here are a few tips to keep your skin clear as possible.
Wash your fabric masks often, and use a gentle laundry detergent without fragrance. Laundry detergent/fabric softener with fragrance can clog pores and cause irritation.
Keep your face clean. Wash with an anti-acne or gentle regimen. I’ve been alternating using the Unblemish regimen and then adding in Soothe when my face feels irritated.
When taking your mask on and off avoid touching your face. Oils from your fingers can cause clogged pores and unwanted breakouts.
Masks dry out your skin. Dry skin leads to increased oil production which then leads to clog pores. Prevent this by using a great (light) moisturizer. RF's Soothe Step 3 has over 98% of moisturizers, humectants, and protectants.

Did you know...

There are 2 types of sunscreen. 🤔

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL. And the difference between the two might not be what you think. 🤔🤫🤔

Physical: creates an actual barrier between the UV rays and the skin. Typically mineral barrier. Usually coral reef and marine wildlife friendly. Non-comedogenic (doesn't cause acne) and non-allergenic. It can leave a white or opaque residue if not applied evenly. And it works similar to the way that wearing a hat or a shirt would work - it is a cover.

Chemical: chemistry in the skin creates a barrier that neutralizes and disperses the UVA and UVB rays. Typically takes 20 minutes after application to be fully effective. Some can contain ingredients that are not safe for marine life, however there are brands that do NOT contain those questionable ingredients. Because this type absorbs, it is usually preferred by those searching for something without a sticky residue or "sunscreen" smell.

Which one is right for you? Both have been proven to protect again harmful rays, so that is personal preference based on skin type, skin concerns and length of protection needed.

Any questions? I can recommend a great formula right for your lifestyle!

6 easy skincare tips you can (& should) start today!

Did you know⇾ How your skin ages is 80% UP TO YOU! It is HABITS not genetics that play the greatest role.
Knowing that, do you feel grateful or regretful for how you’ve been treating your skin over the last 5-10 years!!??

Here are 6️⃣ effective changes you can implement today:
💦 Drink all the water. Hydrated skin always appears more youthful!
☀️ SPF like crazy!!!! No...seriously don’t walk out the house without it.
😴 Sleep. Giving your body the rest you need will help!
🌸 Exfoliate!!! Shed your old skin to make room for those new, fresh plump skin cells to shine through!
👌🏻 Don’t buy skincare from the same place you buy your toilet paper 😉
Invest in skincare that is proven and will help repair.
And after you've invested, BE CONSISTENT!
The greatest products in the world won't help you if they just sit on your bathroom counter. ;)

THE ONE MASK EVERYONE NEEDS FOR BEAUTIFUL SKIN

Everyone who has walked out of a professional facial with beautiful glowing skin, more than likely wonders how to keep things looking good in between facials.
It really doesn’t matter what the issue is (acne, dryness, too much “fun,”), if you are serious about taking your skin to rehab, we have the one mask needed for beautiful skin every day.

RECHARGE CHARCOAL DETOX CLAY MASK

Thanks to all-natural ingredients such as kaolin clay and sulfur which work together to absorb oil that causes blemishes, a detox clay mask purges pores of impurities and stubborn blemishes. Volcanic Sand exfoliates the skin to remove impurities and reveal a radiant complexion. Charcoal is also used, to detox and draw out impurities, while Mango Seed Butter, Coconut Oil and Avocado Oil provide intensive moisture replenishment and nourishing fatty acids for softer, more supple-feeling skin. Pretty powerful right?

IT WORKS. IT REALLY WORKS.

There’s a reason clay masks have been around for centuries. They work. Vitamin and mineral-rich, there is nothing simpler and more powerful than a little bit of clay applied to the skin. Plus, they work for all skin types, feel great on the skin, and can even reduce the appearance of pores. Nearly everyone can benefit from using a clay mask as part of their skincare regimen.

Prior to applying the mask, thoroughly cleanse skin with a mild cleanser.

Apply a generous coating to your face and neck, leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

Use it once or twice a week for optimal results.

It’s been stressful lately! And that stress can show up in unexpected ways, including on your skin. Anxiety and fear, which have become pretty regular feelings for a lot of us given the current situation, trigger a fight or flight response in your body. This fight or flight response releases cortisone, a stress hormone, that increases oil production. This means clogged pores, dull complexion and maybe even breakouts.

No need to stress even more. I’ve got some easy solutions to help you out.

SIMPLE (+ WALLET FRIENDLY) TIPS

1) REMOVE MAKEUP before cleansing to get the full benefits of your cleanser’s targeted ingredients. This also reduces how many dirty towels you have to wash and prevents using excess amounts of cleanser. Make-up removing wipes or micellar water are great options.

2) USE FINGERTIPS to apply products to avoid wasting any on your palms. Bonus: your fingertips send sensorial feedback that helps you apply products properly. The formulas to do the heavy lifting when applied with light-medium pressure.

3) ADD AN EXFOLIATOR Exfoliation helps remove dead cells so formulas can reach skin and pores more easily. If you have sensitive skin, lightly massage exfoliator onto damp instead of dry skin as tolerated.

4) WEAR SUNSCREEN every day! Apply your SPF EVERY the morning to get the full benefits. UV rays can pe*****te windows so don’t skip the SPF even though you are home.

6) GET SAFE SUNKISSED SKIN with a self tanner. (Rodan + Fields has an amazing foaming one) Canceled vacations and being stuck inside doesn’t have to mean living without a golden glow! And it is a quick, easy pampering you can indulge in without leaving home.

-credit Mary Radford and the DermRF Blog

Wednesday Wisdom!

Skincare advice is everywhere, but not everything you hear or read is true. Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields are here to put skincare myths to rest once and for all.

💦 Skincare Myth: Drink eight glasses of water a day to prevent dry skin.
The Doctors say:
Only severe dehydration will cause your skin to dry out. In general, the outside humidity, not the amount of water you consume, determines how dry your skin is. And drinking excessive amounts of water can flush essential vitamins and electrolytes out of your bloodstream. How do you know if you need water? Trust your body’s natural signal: thirst.

😳 Skincare Myth: Facial exercises “lift” your skin and prevent wrinkles
The Doctors say:
Repetitive face exercises are more likely to accentuate wrinkles than erase them. There are 44 muscles in your face, and when these muscles contract and relax, your skin moves with them. So the more you make the same facial movements, the deeper your lines will become.

🥵 Skincare Myth: Cleansing skin in hot water opens pores.
The Doctors say:
Hot water will not open your pores. (In fact, nothing will — pores don’t open and close like little mouths!) Hot water will dilate blood vessels, though, making your face redder. Lukewarm water is just the right temperature for washing your face.

👶🏼 Skincare Myth: Some people are born with freckles.
The Doctors say:
No one is born with freckles. All freckles are the result of sun damage. Just compare the inside and outside of your forearm, or check out the underside of your chin or your derriere. Since these areas are rarely exposed to the sun, they are the best examples of the undamaged skin you were born with.

☀️ Skincare Myth: Sun exposure clears up acne.
The Doctors say:
A tan may mask the redness of a breakout temporarily and may, in fact, dry out a pimple a bit faster. But remember, there is no such thing as a “healthy tan.” Over time, sun exposure causes breakouts, it doesn’t clear them. With every tan, cell turnover increases, building up more dead skin cells, which block pores, causing acne. Acne-prone skin needs to be managed by a consistent, effective regimen.

High-quality skincare can make a world of difference in the way you look and feel. But if you’ve been consistently following a Rodan + Fields Regimen and still have some acne, redness or irritation, you may need to make a change — namely, your pillowcase.

The general consensus is that you should wash your pillowcases once a week. But if you have sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin, washing it 2 or 3 times a week can make a difference.

Think about it: Your hair collects more dirt and oil than any other part of your body — and where does it all collect at night? On your pillowcase! Putting your clean, fresh face against all this grime for eight hours a night can clog your pores and cause irritation. Then there are dust mites, the little critters that like to inhabit pillows. They can lay eggs on your pillowcase and, if you’re allergic to them, they can cause itchy skin and rashes.

Here are some other tips when it comes to your pillowcase:

Make sure dust mites bite the dust. Wash your pillowcase — and the rest of your bedding — in hot water at least once a week.

Use a gentle detergent. Look for detergents that are allergy-free, made for sensitive skin and free of harsh chemicals.

An oily face or an oily pillowcase? The oil left behind by fabric softeners and dryer sheets can also seep into your skin. Use a dryer ball instead.

So, if you haven’t changed your pillowcase recently, maybe it’s time. It just might be a skin-saver!

*Source: Derm RF

Three Ways Excercise is Good For Your Skin.
From Derm RF

You already know exercise is good for your body, but did you know it may also give you better skin? That’s right: Provided that you stay hydrated and, if you exercise outdoors, always wear sunscreen, a regular workout can work wonders on your complexion. Here are three ways exercise makes skin more radiant and healthy-looking:

1. Exercise cleanses your skin from the inside out. A good, sweaty workout gets your heart pumping, which boosts circulation and blood flow. That, in turn, nourishes skin cells. Plus, the increased blood flow delivers reparative nutrients to your skin and increases collagen production. Improved circulation aids in the removal of cellular debris, free radicals and toxins.

2. Exercise helps clear clogged pores. Sweat and heat open your pores, making it easier to expel debris like dirt and oil – kind of like getting your face steamed during a facial. Just be sure to remove your makeup before working out and wash your face immediately afterward to keep that pore-clogging gunk from sinking right back in.

3. Exercise helps you de-stress and sleep better. When you are tired and stressed, your face reflects it. That might mean waking up with dark undereye circles or puffiness, dull skin or acne breakouts. Regular exercise can lower your levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol. Studies show that regular exercise can also ease insomnia — so you may finally start waking up with the great skin you’ve always dreamed about.

With a consistent workout regimen and a consistent skincare Regimen, your skin will look better than ever. Best of all, with both skincare and exercise, it’s never too late to start!

What’s your favorite workout? How has it helped your skin?