RX Summer Skin Secrets: Richie L. Lin MD
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We all need to adapt our skin care routines during the hot, humid summers. Board certified dermatologist, Dr. Richie Lin is here to help. Here are a some of his top tips to maintain and protect summer skin:
1. We all sweat more during a sticky July day. To keep your face looking fresh, your summer cleanser and moisturizer should be a touch more drying to control oil production. Look for cleansers that contain drying and acne fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid, and moisturizers that are lightweight. For acne prone individuals, oil control for the rest of your skin is also important so be sure to use a body cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
2. No sunscreen is truly “waterproof” or “sweatproof,” since all sunblocks will dissolve in water eventually. In fact, these labels will soon be a thing of the past since the FDA has ruled that only the term “water resistant,” with a time limit, can be used on a label. If you are swimming, exercising, or even just sweating from a day of walking around, you should reapply your sunscreen every 1-2 hours for continued protection.
3. Sunscreens with an SPF below 15 do not protect against skin cancer or premature aging. The FDA will now require these products to state that they only protect against sunburns, but not against the carcinogenic effects of the sun. Make sure you pick a sunscreen with enough SPF.
4. Swim shirts and brimmed hats with UV protection are very popular right now. You see every toddler and young child at the pool or beach wearing them. If adults are mindful enough to protect their children from large doses of sun exposure, shouldn’t the same rules apply to big people? Protecting yourself with a swim coverup that contains SPF and a wide brimmed hat means you will be stylish and safe at the beach!
5. During the summertime, sun spots can darken with sun exposure. Being vigilant about sun protection and using a prescription strength lightening cream containing hydroquinone at night can help keep those sunspots light and your skin tone even.
About Richie L. Lin MD
Richie L. Lin, MD of Dermatology Consultants of Short Hills, is a board certified dermatologist with strong roots in northern New Jersey. Raised in Millburn, and a graduate of Millburn Senior High School, Dr. Lin went on to graduate magna cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a BA in music literature. He then returned to New Jersey and earned his doctorate of medicine from UMDNJ – New Jersey Medical School, during which time he was elected to the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. Dr. Lin trained in internal medicine in San Francisco before completing his dermatology residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. During residency, Dr. Lin was chosen to serve as the Chief Resident in the Division of Dermatology. After residency, he joined the faculty at the New York University School of Medicine.Dr. Lin has now returned to Short Hills, New Jersey to practice, while teaching at Columbia University.Dr. Lin has published extensively in peer-reviewed dermatology journals. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. He specializes in skin cancer detection and removal, including Mohs surgery, but also practices general dermatology. Dr. Lin also performs non-invasive skin rejuvenation procedures, including Botox, Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, laser hair removal, in addition to a wide array of skin laser treatments.
Fast Favorite: Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint SPF30
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Quickly get the benefits of a broad spectrum sunscreen and tinted moisturizer with Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint SPF30. This amazing formula provides just-the-right protection while creating the perfect summer glow.
Targeted to sensitive skin types, this Broad Spectrum sunscreen is gentle and nourishing. Formulated with Dermalogica’s exclusive UltraCalming Complex, that contains oat and botanical actives to help minimize discomfort, burning and itching. Natural mineral sunscreens help shield against photodamage and UV exposure and leave no heavy feeling and/or white cast on the face. The sheer formula provides optimal hydration and helps protect and reinforce barrier lipids, which are often compromised in sensitized skin conditions.
Benefits:
- Lightly-tinted sunscreen in a rich base to protect against moisture loss.
- Helps reduce redness associated with skin irritation.
- Blends easily on face.
Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint SPF30 is the ultimate fast fix in the morning. Perfect for summertime skin, Ultra Sensitive Tint leaves the skin glowing and fresh.
Currently Coveting: Céline Trio Crossbody Bag
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Currently Coveting:
Céline Trio Crossbody Bag
No explanation needed…
New Natural: Crystal Deodorant
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I must admit I was a bit skeptical to try a “natural” form of deodorant. I am very loyal to my chemically-enhanced version and admit to a slight phobia of body odor. However, after testing Crystal Body Deodorant, my feelings have changed.
Crystal is the world’s leading natural mineral salt deodorant. Made from natural mineral salts, these deodorants form an invisible layer on the skin that creates an unfriendly environment for bacteria. While most deodorants mask odor with heavy scents or fragrances, Crystal deodorants neutralize the bacteria that causes the odor.
I have been using these deodorants for a couple weeks and am shocked by their effectivness. My first thought was to use the Crystal deodorants at night and use my regular deodorant when I am more active. However, I found it worked just as well as my regular deodorant.
The original Crystal Body Deodorant is unscented and available in a stick, roll-on, spray, original Rock, and Towelette. Now available in a variety of scents like Lavender & White Tea and Pomegranate that smell lovely and clean, there is no reason not to try it out.
Tell me what you think!
Drugstore Find: Maybelline Color Tattoo Metal in Barely Branded
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Maybelline’s Color Tatoos are a fantastic drugstore find. These cream eyeshadows last just as long as any other more expensive version and are just as vibrant and pigmented. Constantly creating new colors and finishes, my current favorite is Maybelline Color Tattoo Metal in Barely Branded.
Barely Branded is a warm champagne tone with a metallic/frosted finish. A great dupe/alternative to MAC Bare Study Paint Pot (one of my favorites). A very versatile shade, Barely Branded can be warn on it’s own or as a base to brighten and make shadow stay-put. It has a wonderful creamy consistency that is great for quick and easy application and does not crease or fade, hour after hour.
For a great basic cream shadow that is easily accesible and inexpensive try Maybelline Color Tattoo Metal in Barely Branded.
Brow Builder: It Cosmetics Brow Power
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IT Cosmetics Brow Power Universal Eyebrow Pencil is no ordinary pencil. This ultra-fine, high-definition, long-wearing, automatic eyebrow pencil adjusts to your specific brow color and supports healthy hair growth.
The super-skinny tip draws the tiniest of lines, allowing you to easily mimic the look of natural brow hairs. The spooly-end brushes and polishes the brows, perfecting the look. How can one pencil be universally flattering? By using softer strokes to match lighter hair, including blonde and silver and pressing a bit harder for darker hair, including medium brown to black.
The crayon-like texture goes on very lightly, so you can layer for the particular look you are going for – whether it’s natural or a bold “statement” brow. The formula is smudge-proof, waterproof and filled with good-for-you ingredients like panthenol, Vitamins A, C, and E. It also contains GrowLuxe technology, which is formulated with Saw Palmetto, Nettle Flower Extract, Horsetail Flower Extract, Green Tea Extract and Grapeseed Extract – promoting healthy hair growth. The American Cancer Society approved Brow Power as being safe for ultra-sensitive skin; this plus the GrowLuxe formula makes this pencil perfect for those who have lost their brows due to chemotherapy. In fact, for every Brow Power pencil sold, IT Cosmetics donates one pencil to the Look Good, Feel Better Program which helps women with cancer regain their confidence in their physical appearance.
Amazing? Yes.
Hair Trend: Crimp
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Crimped hair is making an unexpected comeback this Spring/Summer. Often associated with the 80′s, the hairstyle has been spotted on both the runway and red-carpet.
Today’s crimped hairstyle is more about texture than style. Different widths and lengths are used to create volume and effect. The crimping technique offers massive volume that lasts.
For special occasions/Prom: Mix crimped hair with flat-ironed hair for a fresh hairstyle. Crimp hair and style into a top knot or bohemian updo, for a modern take on a classic.
Paul Mitchell wants to make sure you are prom-ready with Paul Mitchell Prom Survival Kits and the Limited Edition Express Ion Crimp. Find participating salons HERE.
The Classics: J Brand Black Skinny
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Like fine wine, the J Brand Black Skinny only gets better with age. Known for both comfort and style, J Brand (btw: ‘J’ stands for Jeff – Jeff Rudes owner) creates great basics that last. The J Brand Black Skinny is the only black skinny I may ever buy. No fading and no stretching – this classic should be a staple in every woman’s closet.
Bored of black denim? Reinvent your day-to-day classics. If you have exhausted all combinations in your closet – mix-it-up with a great shoe or accessory. Try a colorful or embellished flat or rugged ankle boot. However, if you are not six feet tall, ankle boots can be tricky. Paired with skinny jeans they can make you look stumpy. The key to wearing ankle boots with skinny jeans is to create a continuous line. This means wearing dark rinse blue jeans with black ankle boots, or black jeans with a dark gray pair of ankle boots. The colors do not have to match exactly, but should be close enough that there’s no significant break when one ends and the other begins.
Keep it classic and style your J Brand Skinnies with sophisticated black and white pieces. Always on trend and deceptively simple, the black and white combination looks polished and fresh.
When it comes to the classics, investing in great pieces makes a world of difference. These J Brand Skinnies will outlast the next three pairs of less expensive versions bought. Save yourself the time and headache and buy the best.
Holy Grail: FAIRYDROPS Scandal Queen Mascara
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Inspired by the desire to enhance her eyes both on and off camera, Japanese TV personality Aya Yasuda created FAIRYDROPS - a Japanese makeup line that features amazing mascaras.
Japan’s best-selling mascara was brought stateside to sample. The version, FAIRYDROPS Scandal Queen Mascara, is a do-it-all mascara that creates incredibly lush, doll-like lashes and my new HG.
The Brush: Unique in shape, the patented 3-sphere brush is placed on a curved wand that kisses the lash line. The brush catches every single, tiny lash creating perfect definition and length.
The Formula: The dense, fibrous formula does not clump or run. (which is interesting because there are a million tiny fibers). Formulated with a cocktail of moisturizing ingredients such as squalane, jojoba seed oil, panthenol, hydrolyzed collagen, and sodium hyaluronate, every lash is coated and accentuated. Available in one shade – black – the formula is water-resistant and wears all-day without a smudge. Then can be removed effortlessly with a little warm water. Magic!
The Result: The best and most creative mascara I have used. Replaces my previous holy grail, HERE. The fibrous wand does all the work for you. In just one coat – lashes are feathered perfectly, lengthened, defined and exactly how it is described – “doll-like.”
The Problem: This mascara has been discontinued and is no longer sold at Sephora, online. There are still a few at the stores but in limited supply, so get yours before it’s too late. (Also check your local Asian markets, Amazon and EBay)
Perfect Polish: Watermelon by Essie
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I just bought my fourth bottle of Watermelon by Essie. Never in my life have I finished a bottle of nail polish – now four! Watermelon is the polish I always come back to, year after year. Best for warmer weather, Watermelon is cheerful, youthful and flattering on the skin. It can appear many different colors – bright pink, red and almost neon, depending on the light.
Watermelon applies opaque in one coat. I always use two coats for both manicure and pedicure. I find Essie nail polishes super easy to apply. The thin brush promotes control and ease.
If you are looking for a great spring/summer shade that is refreshing and juicy, try Watermelon by Essie.
Five Favorites: Peasant Top
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Peasant tops are are great transitioning piece from cold to warm weather. Available in basic neutrals or super bright colors – these tops are both relaxed and casual.
Slip into a breezy peasant top and pair with your favorite denim, white and/or colored. Equally cute with shorts and skirts, marry the look with some ankle boots and a floppy hat. Peasant tops also make a great beach coverup.
Designers continue to offer peasants tops in many styles but the one constant is their flowy and breezy nature. Appealing to all body types, this top will work hard in your closet all-year-long.
Here are five favorites:
Joie ~ Meliana Embroidered Gauze Blouse: $198.00
Urban Outfitters ~ Ecote Split Back Embroidered Tank Top: $49.00
Anthropologie ~ Embroidered Aureolin Tunic: $98.00
Urban Outfitters ~ Embroidered Bazaar Cami: $54.00
Free People ~ Rolling Stone Woven Top: $118.00
Fresh-Faced: YSL Creme de Blush in Baby Doll
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The Yves Saint Laurent Arty Stone Collection for Spring 2013 is a gorgeous collection filled with bold spring colors. To top it off, the collection is all worn by Ginta Lapina, the label’s ambassador for this season.
Taking its inspiration from warm, precious jewel tone pigments, Lloyd Simmonds, Creative Director Make-up Yves Saint Laurent Beauté, describes as:
“Pink quartz, amethyst, pyrite, malachite, azurite, jade, each possesses a hypnotic beauty. When you hold them in your hands, these precious stones diffuse energy and light, like galaxies. Their crystalline purity and voluptuous opalescence were the departure point for the creation of the Spring Look 2013 for Yves Saint Laurent.”
This collection features three new Creme de Blush: 7 Rose, 8 Brown, 9 Pink (Baby Doll Pink). These blushes are very unique. They apply and blend like a cream but set to a powder finish. However, the finish is luminous, radiant and healthy looking. Incredibly easy to apply, this product feels like silk, ensuring a seamless result. The lightweight, mousse-like and non-waxy texture does not break-up makeup, and can be layered for higher color payoff.
Baby Doll is my current favorite. It looks very pink in the pot – almost neon, however, when blended, creates the perfect flushed cheek. Swoon. Apply with a light hand for a subtle effect or a heavy-hand for a statement look. Baby Doll really makes the skin look fresh and healthy.
Suggested application: Using fingertips, gently apply to the apples of the cheeks, blending up and outward toward the hairline. Gently tap into the skin for flawless blending.
Stress-Free Soak: Shea Terra Jasmine Ylang Ylang Effervescent Bath Soak
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Surround yourself in Madagascan Ylang Ylang and Egyptian Jasmine flowers. Shea Terra Jasmine Ylang Ylang Effervescent Bath Soak creates a deeply relaxing and aromatic bath experience. Simply pour a scoop into the bath and watch as tiny effervescent pebbles release a bouquet of warm aromas, essential oils and vitalizing salts. The perfect way to calm and soothe away the day.
This Effervescent Bath Soak is 100% natural and formulated with rare Kalahari Desert salts. These salts are whole, unprocessed and rich in over twenty skin-loving minerals including silver, bromide, calcium, potassium and magnesium. These amazing salts detoxify the body, draw out excess fluid and help skin cells to regenerate and heal.
An effervescent salts bath add another dimension to the bath experience. The fizzy, massaging bubbles are great for removing dead skin cells and release nourishing minerals and fragrant African essential oils that hydrate the skin. Wild Marula and Ootanga oils are so moisturizing – you many not need lotion out of the bath.
Melt your day away with Shea Terra Jasmine Ylang Ylang Effervescent Bath Soak .
About Shea Terra Organics
Shea Terra Organics sources the most potent, organic and wild harvested ingredients from across Africa. This pristine environment, little tainted by modern pollution, grows some of the safest, unchanged botanical ingredients on earth. Unwilling to compromise, Shea Terra Organics uses whole herbs for its potent, synergistic benefits.
Shea Terra Organics practices Free Trade. They work with small groups of gatherers, cooperatives and families to source their premium ingredients. With every purchase of Shea Terra products gives an economic incentive for local peoples to preserve their wild habitats.
Unrequited Love: Tassel Jewelry
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A more playful take on statement jewelry has been popping up in the form of swingy tassel earrings, bracelets and necklaces. The global-inspired look is available in a multitude of colors, lengths and styles. From colorful bracelets and shoulder-grazing danglers to simple rope pendants, finding a piece of tassel jewelry to fit your style and budget is a cinch. Here are a few favorites.
1. Isabel Marant: Asphalt Cowboy Necklace: $342.00
2. Max & Chloe: Ali NY Silver Traveler Tassel Earrings: $60.00
3. Lucy Folk: Jasmine Flower Braided Bracelets: $72.00
4. Max & Chloe: Ali NY Gold City Tassel Belcher Bracelet: $70.00
5. J.Crew: Double-Tassel Necklace: $62.00
How-To: Missoni SS13 Neon Coral Lip
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Nothing lights up the face like a bright lip. One of my favorite makeup looks from Spring/Summer 2013 was Missoni. This neon coral lip is electric and fresh.
Off the runway – try this look with a barely-there face. Just a little mascara and blush/bronzer is all that is needed.
The Look:
“Cosmic couture… Futuristic, aerodynamic, astral, light, beautiful and radiant.” – makeup artist Lucia Pieroni for MAC.
LIPS
1. Mix together MAC Pro Lipmix in Fuchsia, Orange and White for a strong, vivid coral and use the MAC 316 Lip Brush to apply perfectly over the lips, keeping the edges noticeably straight.
2. Apply MAC Pro Pigment in Red Electric with the MAC 217 Blending Brush to set and matte the Lipmix, and provide a neon finish to the lips.
TIP: If you don’t want to mess with a myriad of products – try Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids in Shocking Coral or Vibrant Mandarin (my 2 favorites). For a matte look – dust some translucent powder or bright matte blush on top.
Terrific Toner: Mario Badescu Special Cucumber Lotion
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Clarify and disinfect with Mario Badescu’s Special Cucumber Lotion. This refreshing, deep-cleaning astringent is an anti-bacterial solution that will help to disinfect skin and discourage acne flare-ups. Though this description sounds harsh – it is nothing but soothing and gentle.
I hate the word astringent. It reminds me of products like Sea Breeze – that we used to basically burn acne off the skin. The Special Cucumber Lotion is considered an astringent, but I use it as a toner. Though it does contain alcohol and sulfur – it has never been overly drying. Despite the alcohol ingredient – it doesn’t burn or tingle when applied. It feels super soothing and nourishing and makes the skin feel clean … really clean.
I like to use this product when the seasons change. The weather gets a bit warmer and my skin acts confused. Unable to embrace any skin type – combination, oily, dry or acne-prone. I believe this product calms and soothes my skin back to normal.
Ask for sample of the Special Cucumber Lotion to see if it works for you.
Currently Coveting: Isabel Marant Linda
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Currently Coveting: Isabel Marant Linda Studded Leather Shoulder Bag
Inspired by Elvis, the Linda bag is embellished in multicolored studs, grommets and Swarovski crystals. Designed in leather and suede, this bag is beautifully structured and keeps with Marant’s western cowgirl theme from SS13 runway. Not to mention… my perfect summer bag.
Festival Beauty Essentials
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Festival First Aid Kit:
When running water isn’t available, cleansing wipes are something of a lifesaver during festival season. Use on both face and body when needed. Neutrogena Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes will fight bacteria and decongest the skin.
Cool-off with Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater. Spray anywhere at anytime to hydrate the skin, tone the skin, set makeup or for a quick refresh.
After prolonged sun exposure, skin needs more nourishment than ever. That is why I love Aveeno Protect + Hydrate. It feels like a body lotion but has high SPF.
Protecting your skin from the sun is more important than ever at festivals since shade is often hard to find – so is protecting your lips. Shiseido Sun Protection Lip Treatment has SPF 36, feels great on the lips and looks super glossy.
Look instantly glowing while protecting and treating the skin with Boscia BB Cream Bronze. This one-step wonder creates a lustrous, flawless finish as it hydrates, firms, and soothes the skin. It contains broad-spectrum SPF 27 PA++ and helps diminish the appearance of pores, fine lines, and uneven skin tone while providing long-wearing, natural coverage that conceals imperfections. Boscia’s BB Cream Bronze creates a sun-kissed complexion with just a hint of shimmer.
Continuing the rant on sun protection - ColoreScience Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen Brush is my go-to powder. Cream sunscreen is impossible to reapply all-day – especially when wearing makeup. Use the built-in brush to apply as needed with no caking, residue and/or irritation.
Pack products that are finger-friendly – like cream blush/lip pots and eyeshadows. Festivals are a great time to experiment with color. Stila Convertable Color in Sweet Pea is the perfect pop of color for both cheeks and lips. It creates a dewy complexion and pouty lips. Find cream eyeshadows that are long-lasting and won’t crease. I love Jouer Creme Eyeshadow in Chiffon. It creates the most amazing shine on the eye that almost looks wet and stays-put all day. This is also a great product to have handy because it moonlights as a highlighter.
Though I loathe waterproof mascara – it is a must in situations like these. YSL Singulier Nuit Blanche is a great mascara and not too impossible to take-off. It will not run or smudge and the brush is amazing.
No festival beauty guide would be complete without a highly-effective and much-loved Dry Shampoo. Serge Normant Meta Revive Dry Shampoo not only does a great job to rid your hair of oils – but is an amazing styling product. It will give your hair extra volume without feeling sticky or stiff. Speaking of sticky – don’t be the smelly kid in the group and pack your Secret Clinical Strength Deodorant.
Have fun – Be safe – Stay hydrated!
Festival Accessories: Free People
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Nobody can get you festival-ready like Free People. The uber-boho brand exemplifies true festival style.
Try stomping around the fairground in rugged ombre leather boots, decking out your arms in bangles, or trying-out some bohemian headgear.
No need to scour the web with this one-stop-shop. Here are a few of my favorite festival accessories from Free People:
Keaton Sunglasses: $18.00
Zig Zag Banded Panama: $38.00
Printed Widebands: $18.00
Dipped Phoenix Boot: $398.00
Avery Sandal: $85.00
Alex Convertable Backpack: $258.00
Hard Bangle Set: $28.00
La Luna Ring: $113.00
Marisa Haskell Leather Fringe Breastplate: $188.00
Festival Fashion Favorites
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From Coachella to Bonnaroo, festival season is in full swing. If you’ve ever wanted to try-out crop tops, flower crowns, flowing maxis and fringy frocks this is the time (and maybe all at once). These festivals are just as much about the fashion as it is about the talent on stage. Here are a few of my favorite festival looks:
Mara Hoffman ~ Psychic Readings Maxi Dress: $242.00
Étoile Isabel Marant ~ Salome Printed Cotton Shorts: $225.00
Free People ~ Convertable Romper: $98.00
KSUBI ~ Alberceque Distressed Denim Shorts: $180.00
Free People ~ FP ONE Imperial Palm Pintuck Dress: $118.00
