Troubled T-Zone...

So you use your retinol or glycolic ((AKA, topical exfoliants) all over that pretty face of yours to delay the aging process and or to prevent acne. When used on a daily basis these topical exfoliants could lead to dry, scaly or even, hot pink irritated skin. No good looking girl or guy wants that but.. you desire smaller pores, less wrinkled skin and let's be honest NO ZITS! So in a world that drives us to think more is better we end up overusing these products.

Earlier this week I experienced a light bulb moment while in a treatment room with a client. She struggles with sebaceous hyperplasia  http://www.skinmds.com/skin-disorders/sabeceous.htm We have almost won the war but she has a few stubborn ones hanging on. Since retinol is known for decreasing oil production and encourages the release of dead skin cells she naturally wants to use it every night. Unfortunately, she can't because it leaves her shedding like a snake. So this is when my light bulb went off...SPOT TREAT!!! I advised her to take a q-tip and dot a small amount of retinol on the sebaceous hyperplasia. This way even on the nights she's not treating the entire face she is still actively going after her area of concern. No excessive irritation but target driven corrective treatment...Woohoo!!

 So if you are struggling with blackheads on the nose don't hesitate to use your favorite exfoliant of choice every night on the particular area. JUST BE SMART...if the area becomes overly irritated STOP temporarily. My philosophy is slow and progressive. It's always better than fast and furious when it comes to skincare. Now get out there and go OWN your beautiful...