Looking for some self care activities to keep you occupied? Not to worry! We’ve compiled a list of things that you can do to not only help yourself, but also your skin! Read on to learn what you can do during this time at home to help you reach your skin goals and attain the results you’ve always wanted!

Discover or Learn More About Your Skin Type.

If you haven’t really taken the time to identify your skin type and skin concerns, and are guilty of applying any skin care product that appears to be “good,” this is a great time and opportunity to do research on your skin and find the products that specifically work for you. This skin type guide is a great starting point to get to know the types of ingredients that work for you to achieve your skin goals. Completely new to the skin care game? We’ve got you covered with another complete guide on how to create a simple, multi-step skin care routine based on your skin type and concerns.

RELATED: How To Keep Your Beauty & Skin Care Regimen Sanitary

Schedule a Skin Concierge Session.

Whether you’re a newbie to the world of skin care or need to reorient your skin care journey, consider scheduling a one-on-one Skin Concierge Session with a Soko Expert. These free, 20 minute text messaging sessions are centered around your skin type and concerns and are based on a short survey regarding your skin type and lifestyle habits. Each session also includes personalized product recommendations.

Hydrate Your Skin Regularly.

Staying inside a heated room all day may deprive the skin of its moisture, which means it’s even more important to not just hydrate your face, but also to hydrate the rest of your body. Designate 5 to 10 minutes daily to apply lotion or body oil, or incorporate it into your daily AM or PM routine. Don’t forget that adding a balm or mask to your lips can do wonders for soothing and hydrating dry lips! The Klavuu Nourishing Care Lip Sleeping Pack is an excellent option to exfoliate and re-introduce moisture. Though this lip mask’s name suggests it should only be used at night, it can also be used as a lip balm throughout the day to ensure your lips are hydrated. To add some moisture to your face, the Erborian Milk & Peel Mask works well to replenish the face’s moisture levels and to transform the skin from a dull to luminous finish. This wash-off mask can also serve as an exfoliator that can be applied once or twice a week to increase dead skin cell turnover.

Try Out a Sheet Mask or Eye Mask.

While getting lost in a good book or binge watching a show you’ve been wanting to catch up on, use that time to help your skin out by applying a sheet mask or eye mask! Masks such as the Leaders AC Clear Treatment Mask help to alleviate redness and irritation while restoring moisture to the skin and smoothing out the skin’s texture. This mask is suitable for all skin types, but especially for acne-prone and sensitive skin types that struggle with acne regularly. Key ingredients such as snail mucin and tea tree leaf oil work in tandem to heal acne scars and reduce the appearance of redness.

Meanwhile, Acropass’ Line Care Patches can help address wrinkle concerns around the eyes. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, adenosine, and peptides help to plump these target areas by reducing the appearance of wrinkles within two hours. If your under-the-eye concerns are related to puffiness and redness, then the Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Intensive Eye Cream may be for you. This eye cream uses licorice water, licorice extract, and caffeine to combat dark circles, hyperpigmentation, and puffiness, respectively.

If you need to step outside (and wear a face mask)…

For some of us, it’s difficult to stay inside all day – you may need to go for a quick grocery run, or you may even be an essential worker. We’ve recently been receiving questions from our readers about how to take care of your skin before and after wearing a face mask outside. Below, experts weigh in on how to keep your face clean and how to prevent and treat breakouts when using a face mask.

Dermatologist and medical director Dr. Rawn Bosley of Prism Dermatology in Southlake, Texas, advises to wash your face both before and immediately after wearing a mask.

“Washing your face prior to applying and after removing your mask can be beneficial. Washing your skin with a gentle cleanser may address the accumulation of excess oil on the skin along the borders of the mask. It is important to minimize taking the mask on and off of your face as this will reduce your exposure and risk of cross-contamination,” says Dr. Bosley.

In addition to choosing the appropriate products for your skin type, the temperature of water you use to wash your face is important. “You should also be weary about the temperature of the water you’re using. Using hot water to wash your face might feel really nice, but it can actually be damaging to the now already delicate skin on your face. It’s important to use lukewarm water to wash your face instead,” explains physician assistant Erin Jensen, who is also the founder of the California-based skin care clinic, The Treatment Skin Boutique.

Besides washing your face, another precaution you can take to prevent breakouts when wearing a face mask is not wearing makeup.“It’s easy to want to put on makeup, especially if it’s part of your daily routine, but it’s time to maybe shift it up and only apply above eye level. Any potentially irritating or pore-clogging ingredients should be avoided under the mask-covered skin at all costs,” Jensen says.

Resisting the desire to wear makeup is crucial when wearing a mask since the enclosure of the skin fosters a warm, moisture-abundant environment.

“When it comes down to it, wearing a mask does protect your face, but underneath it creates a moist, hot environment for your skin. This can lead to a build up of sweat and oil on the skin under the mask, which can lead to inflammation, rashes, and even acne breakouts,” says Jensen.

Making a conscious effort to wash your face before and after wearing a face mask hopefully can go a long way in keeping your skin healthy and blemish-free.

The post At-Home Skin Care Tips and Face Mask Hacks (If You Do Need To Go Outside) appeared first on The Klog.

What are superfoods?

Hearing the term ‘superfood’ probably brings to mind images of rare plants and fruits found in an unknown land. However, if you’re drizzling honey or adding avocado to your food, then you’ve already taken steps to incorporating these superfoods into your lifestyle.

“‘Superfood’ is a trendy buzz term to indicate that a food has high nutritional value. While you may think that superfoods come from exotic plants deep in the jungle, think again. Superfoods are far more commonplace than you may think. Foods with great nutritional value can be found right in your grocery store: mushrooms, green leaves, dark berries, bananas, nuts and seeds to name a few. Foods that have a high nutritional value can help with disease management and/or prevention,” says Amanda A. Kostro Miller, a licensed dietitian who serves on the advisory board for the healthy living editorial site, Fitter Living.

RELATED: Ingredient Spotlight: Ellagic Acids

Superfood Skin Care Benefits

Many fruits, vegetables, oils, and spices have earned the “superfood” title simply because of the multiple benefits that serve to protect and build healthy skin.

“Superfoods are nutritionally-dense fruits and vegetables, healthy oils, and [healthy] spices, that contain amino acids, anti-inflammatories, and antioxidants. These superfoods help build firm skin, defend against environmental stressors, and promote optimal skin metabolism. They supply skin with a broad mix of antioxidants that protect against inflammatory reactions that destroy collagen and give skin that glow we all seek out,” explains cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Annie Chiu of The Derm Institute in Redondo Beach, California.

Though superfoods is a general term, it is important to note that these foods do not have all the same benefits and are divided into specific categories based on their functions and chemical properties.

In fact, some foods provide multiple benefits in addition to their basic functions. Listed below are some superfoods commonly found in skin care:

Green tea, pomegranate, and berries.

These colorful plants are the key ingredients found in drinks like smoothies and shakes, but did you know that they can help prevent common ailments and signs of aging? Green tea, pomegranate, and blueberries are rich in antioxidants, chemical compounds that help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals that are responsible for the emergence of wrinkles and declines in collagen production. Think of antioxidants as the body’s police officers that stop free radicals in their tracks before causing damage to the body and skin.

“Antioxidants are free radical scavengers, meaning they go around to prevent and fix DNA damage that eventually leads to cancer. Antioxidants also help reduce free radicals which cause inflammation in the body and breakdown of the building blocks of the skin: collagen and elastin,” says San Francisco-based dermatologist Dr. Caren Campbell.

Avocados and honey.

While they may serve as tasty toast toppings during brunch, avocados and honey are also hydrating superstars, adding much-needed water to the skin. According to Dr. Peterson Pierre of the Pierre Skin Care Institute, avocados’ chemical properties not only hydrate the skin, but they also placate inflammation associated with skin concerns.

“Avocado oil has high levels of vitamins B and E and is rich in fatty acids and many other nutrients that can nourish and moisturize the skin. It also contains oleic acid which promotes collagen production and accelerates the healing process. The antioxidants and vitamins have anti-inflammatory properties which can help acne, dandruff, and eczema,” he says.

Similar to avocados, honey also hydrates the skin and contains antioxidants that protect the skin from the harmful effects. When used topically, honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

“It’s a humectant so it draws moisture into the skin, and it aids in wound healing by maintaining a moist wound environment and providing a protective barrier. It has long been used in traditional medicine for cuts and burns. Honey is also rich in antioxidants, which helps fight free radicals from sun, pollution and stress that may damage the skin. Its organic acid content provides gentle exfoliation, and the vitamins and amino acids may impart anti-aging properties as well,” explains NYC board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King.

Papaya and Pineapple.

These tangy fruits of the tropics are known for their exfoliating and hydrating properties. They are also renowned for having traces of natural AHAs. “Pineapples and papayas are fruits with a high water content along with a significant amount of antioxidants. The antioxidants found in these two fruits support the body of ridding itself of toxins that can lead to signs of aging and skin damage. Pineapples are the only food source that contains bromelain, an enzyme, with significant antioxidant benefits,” says Lisa Richards, nutritionist and author of The Candida Diet.

Meanwhile, “Papaya contains an enzyme called Papain that can help exfoliate dead skin cells on the surface,” says cosmetic chemist, Ron Robinson, of BeautyStat.com. Pineapples and Papayas contain glycolic acid, which is a natural source of AHA, which help to improve skin texture and tone, unclog pores, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

Grapeseed Oil and Olive Oil. 

For centuries, oils have been a quintessential aspect of beauty routines, and they still continue to be used in many skin care products today – for a good reason. Richards says, “Both oils contain beneficial fatty acids which help to enhance the elasticity of skin. [Additionally,] grapeseed and olive oil contain vitamin E and fatty acids which are antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory. These three characteristics assist in boosting skin health and vibrancy.”

Products That Include Superfoods

Whether you’re looking to prevent signs of aging, add a burst of hydration, or naturally exfoliate the skin, there are several K-beauty options to choose from that utilize the powers of superfoods.

If you’re looking to reduce signs of aging… we recommend the Mamonde Red Energy Recovery Serum. This serum contains pomegranate, a superfood rich in antioxidants, and another powerhouse ingredient: vitamin C. The antioxidants and vitamin C found in this serum complement each other by reviving the skin’s glow and preventing the onset of aging caused by free radicals.

If you’re looking to deliver more hydration to your skin… consider the Skinfood Royal Honey Propolis Enrich Essence. This honey-based essence consists of 63% propolis extract. Propolis is the proper term for the brown resin that bees use to construct their hives and is just as potent of an ingredient as honey. Propolis works in conjunction with royal jelly extract to create a formula that nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier, leaving the skin with a soft, smooth texture.

If you’re looking for a gentle exfoliator… the Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Lemon is a great starting point. These exfoliating pads feature lemon, orange, and papaya extracts to slough away dead skin cells and unclog pores.In fact, these pads exfoliate the skin both physically and chemically. Pro tip: use these pads in your post-workout skin care routine to prevent acne from developing on your back, arms, and chest.

The post From the Outside, In: Benefits of Superfoods in Skin Care appeared first on The Klog.

As someone who has dry, sensitive skin and doesn’t get in her eight daily glasses of water, my skin is frequently deprived of hydration – especially during the winter months. Throughout this winter, I’ve tried several lip masks, balms, and ampoules to give my lips the hydration that it needs. Most importantly, I’ve been on the lookout for the balm or mask that both hydrates AND clears away the dead, flaky skin cells.

Unpa’s Bubble Lip Scrub luckily accomplishes both of these tasks. This pink-colored and innovative scrub, curated by Soko Glam, visibly bubbles on the lips as it works its magic to gently exfoliate and reveal soft, plump lips. Packed with natural derivatives such as witch hazel, papaya, peach, and grapefruit extracts, these ingredients work together to naturally and gently cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize the lips.

Rest assured, the bubbles that form on your lips should not cause any irritation or tears to the skin. Because the formulation is so fruit-focused, it uses natural AHA’s to exfoliate, making it suitable and safe for all skin types. (Of course, if you’re not sure how your skin will react, always patch test first!)

RELATED: Do You REALLY Need a Mask For Your Lips? This Sleeping Pack Will Convince You

In fact, the lip scrub’s packaging is equipped with a pump, allowing you to easily control the amount of product and ultimately the amount of exfoliation you want for your lips. Apply the desired amount onto your lips (I did two pumps), spread gently, and within 3 to 5 minutes, bubbles should start to appear!

Once the bubbling subsides, use a damp cloth to wipe the product off. Your lips should feel immediately smoother, and any pesky flakes or roughness should be noticeably gone.

The scrub has a soft, lightweight texture that instantly “fizzes” and bubbles once it meets your lips. This fizz never seemed to be neither too abrasive nor too rough on my lips but instead made them feel smooth and soft after the fizzing was over.

Although this scrub works hard to rid your lips of dry, dead skin cells, it also doubles as a sweet, relaxing treat when you have a little extra time to spend on your routine. It has an aroma similar to the popular confectionary that bubbles: bubble gum!

As for the price, it costs $14 for the Unpa Bubble Lip Scrub. Lip masks and exfoliators sold by other well-known brands tend to cost twice as much, so this is a great deal.

After a week of trying this scrub as a part of my nightly routine, my lips felt moist, plump, and soft once I washed all the bubbles away. The white flakes of dead skin that once resided on the edges of my lips suddenly disappeared, which has been a constant struggle to keep at bay.

If I wanted an extra boost of hydration, some nights I would follow up with the Unpa Bubi Bubi Lip Ampoule. This ampoule is formulated with jojoba oil and argan oil, along with hydrating powerhouses hyaluronic acid and ceramide. My lips usually still felt hydrated and refreshed the following morning, but the hydration had to be replenished by applying the lip ampoule. Overall, this innovative, bubble-fizzing lip mask is a keeper. It makes kissing chapped lips goodbye a fun and exciting experience.

The post The K-Beauty Lip Mask That Naturally Exfoliates and Hydrates with Bubbles appeared first on The Klog.

The fruit of the tropics – coconuts – have proven to be an excellent moisturizer to treat dry skin and even dry hair. In fact, there are many products now on the market that include this fruit’s fragrance in their ingredient rosters. We’re taking you on a deep dive to understand its benefits, along with product recommendations if you’re looking to include more hydration in your skin care routine. 

RELATED: These Coconut Oil Pads Successfully Removed 16 Products Worth of Smudge-Proof Makeup Off My Face Like It Was Nothing

The benefits of coconut

Coconuts are known for their hydrating properties, but why do they make great hydrators?

“Found in products from hair care to skin care, this ingredient primarily serves as a moisturizing agent. Mostly in the form of oil, coconuts have a wide range of benefits. Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, making it a great hydrator. Some of the fatty acids also include antimicrobial properties which can help to fight skin infections and harmful microorganisms,” says esthetician Josie Holmes of Skinney Medspa.  

Esthetician Airi Williams of Los Angeles-based facial spa, Skin Camp, the sister brand of beauty tools company, Skin Gym, adds that coconuts are also rich in fatty acids and in vitamins E and A. 

“[They] primarily [are made up of] fatty acids. [They do] have some antioxidant properties like vitamin E and vitamin A to help with collagen production and moisture. Mixing several vitamins in the skin will help improve the skin’s overall health,” Williams says. 

The list goes on and on regarding the benefits coconuts serve, including alleviating irritation caused by specific skin concerns. 

“Coconut Oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can assist in treating inflammatory skin concerns such as eczema, psoriasis, and irritated skin. As coconut oil is rich in fatty acids – making it a great moisturizing agent – it can assist in wound healing by helping to protect the outer layer of the skin, keeping out bacteria, and maintaining the skin’s health,” says Holmes.

Who benefits from coconuts?

Since they are known for adding moisture to the skin, NYC-based dermatologist Dr. Hadley King advises dry skin types in particular should try products that consist of coconut. 

“Dry hair and skin types, therefore, can benefit most from the excellent emollient properties of coconut oil. Its emollient properties make it helpful for moisturizing dry skin, decreasing frizz and fly-aways and increasing luster,” she says.

According to Holmes, using topical products containing coconut can also improve the health and efficaciousness of the skin barrier. “Dry skin is [caused by] a lack of oil, therefore adding an oil into your routine can help to restore the lipid barrier, increase water retention, and help to nourish the skin,” explains Holmes.  

While coconut oil can help many with skin concerns related to dryness, coconut is not a “one size fits all” type of ingredient. Coconut can cause the onset of acne for other skin types, particularly for oily and acne-prone skin. 

“However, coconut oil is fairly comedogenic, meaning that it can clog pores and contribute to acne. Therefore, if you have oily skin and are acne-prone, then coconut oil should not be applied to acne-prone areas,” explains Dr. King. 

RELATED: Is Coconut Oil Good for Your Skin?

Product Recommendations

From makeup removal to evening out the skin’s texture, there are several K-Beauty brands that utilize coconut within its formulations.  

Leaders 7 Wonders Tundra Cranberry Anti-Aging Mask: Coated in coconut gel, this sheet mask hydrates and combats free radicals using cranberries from the arctic. The cranberries specifically address fine lines, wrinkles, and skin elasticity, while the coconut gel helps to effectively lock in hydration to the skin.

Solved Skincare Coconut Oil Cleansing Pads: If you’re looking for a hassle-free solution to removing makeup and SPF at the end of the day while taking in the aroma of 100% virgin, non-comedogenic coconut oil, consider trying Solved Skincare’s Coconut Oil Cleansing Pads. These soft pads also serve as gentle exfoliators, freeing the skins’ surface of dirt and oil. Did we also mention that the coconut oil hydrates and smoothes out the skin’s texture, too? 

Solved Skincare Coconut Water Cleansing Foam: Considering having a full-on coconut cleansing routine? Enter Solved Skincare’s Coconut Water Cleansing Foam. Consisting of 75% coconut water, this cleanser helps in washing away pollutants and other residue on the surface of the skin. With a pH level of 5.5, this cleanser is also friendly to sensitive and dry skin types.

Solved Skincare Coconut Water Hibiscus + Rosehip Toner: Infused with coconut water, hibiscus leaves, and rosehip extract, this toner leaves your skin feeling hydrated and rejuvenated. Coconut water helps nourish the skin and fight signs of aging, while the hibiscus leaves help regenerate the skin. As an added bonus, this multi-functional toner is suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne prone skin.

The post Ingredient Spotlight: Coconuts appeared first on The Klog.

Michelle Hua, the artist behind the Instagram account,@pretty_little_face, has amassed an Instagram following of over 19K  — and for a good reason. She graces her followers’ feeds with bright, vivid illustrations of popular skin care and makeup products, beauty influencers, and celebrities such as Michelle Phan and Rhianna. Not only did she share what makeup and skin care products she loves to illustrate most, she also created an illustration of her current skin care routine exclusively for the Klog.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BslCJZhljRe/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtJgH6hFyXt/

The Klog: How long have you been a graphic designer and what made you want to illustrate beauty products?

Michelle: I don’t know if being a graphic designer-in-training (AKA a college student) counts as a graphic designer, but if it does then three years! And as for illustrating, during my senior year in high school I was really into beauty products and packaging. In the summer of ’16, I decided to combine my love for art and makeup together and the rest is history.

The Klog: Your style seems to resemble comic book illustrations and uses an eclectic color palette. Where do you derive your inspiration from for your illustration style?

Michelle: That’s funny that you say that my work resembles comic book illustrations. As a kid, I love — and I still love — anything Marvel. Television shows, comic books… basically that whole art style. I think that had an influence on my work. Nowadays, I’m attracted to more experimental and abstract styles and I really want to incorporate that into my future works.

The Klog: Instagram now serves as a platform where graphic designers and illustrators share their work. How do you keep your followers engaged?

Michelle: I try to keep up by illustrating the latest beauty launches and anything I find super cute, because I need to share the cuteness with everybody.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvmfVAmFVE9/

The Klog: Your portfolio includes a wide range of skin care and makeup brands. What beauty brands and/or products have you enjoyed illustrating?

Michelle: Just to name a few, my favorite brands to illustrate are EM Cosmetics, Deco Miami, Boscia, Then I Met You, Colourpop, Live Love Polish, and NCLA.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6MDs8Nn_8l/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BuWWkorFNrQ/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1ZhJFlH0fx/

The Klog: Has there been a K-Beauty product or line that you have enjoyed illustrating?

Michelle: Yes — Then I Met You! I enjoy illustrating this line because one, I genuinely love the magic it does to my skin, and two, the packaging. I’m a total sucker for anything that’s wrapped in a pastel color. Sold!

The Klog: Makeup and skin care brands rely heavily on graphic designers to develop their brand identity and image. Do you foresee yourself creating brand assets in the beauty space in the future?

Michelle: Absolutely! I’m in love with the beauty products and can’t imagine myself doing anything else.

The Klog: Do you have a favorite K-Beauty product of all time? Why?

Ahhh this is such a tough question to answer! I have many favs, but COSRX Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream has to be the winner (after Then I Met You Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel [and] Living Cleansing Balm!) This moisturizer is just fab! It keeps my face super moisturized for the entire day, feels lightweight on the face, doesn’t irritate my skin and — this is major — it doesn’t lead me to break out! LOVE this stuff.

The Klog: If we were to take a look in your vanity or beauty bag, what would we find?

Michelle: As an art student, I have literally no time to put on a full face of makeup, so my routine is cut down to the very essentials: brows, eyes, and lips. In my everyday beauty bag you’ll find: Anastasia Dip Brow (Medium Brown), a Makeup Geek eyeshadow in Backlight and Phantom, EM Cosmetics Divine Skies Eyeshadow Palette, Essence Lash Princess Sculpted Volume Mascara, and EM Cosmetics Morning Dew Crystal Lip Gloss. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll put on Kosas Tinted Face Oil in tone 5.5.

The Klog: What does your day and night skin care routine look like?

Michelle: Skin care is super simple for me. Daytime skin care routine I just put on a solid moisturizer and sunblock. What I’ve been using lately is Good Molecules Silicone-Free Priming Moisturizer and Papa Recipe Honey Moist Sun Essence SPF 50++. [My] nighttime skincare routine requires a bit more effort. I double cleanse with Then I Met You Soothing Tea Cleaning Gel/Living Cleansing Balm (I learned about the double cleansing method from Charlotte Cho at a Then I Met You pop-up [and] it’s life changing! Do try it if you haven’t!), then I tone with Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner, apply Then I Met You’s The Giving Essence, my acne topical, and Glow Recipe’s Banana Souffle Moisturizer Cream. Sometimes I swipe some of my partner’s Aromatica Organic Aloe Vera Gel if my skin needs an extra boost of moisture (thanks bb!).

The post K-Beauty Meets Art: Michelle Hua Talks Beauty Illustrations & Her Skin Care Routine appeared first on The Klog.

Brooke is the creator and host of the beauty podcast, Naked Beauty, and the product marketing manager for Instagram. Every week, she interviews women she respects on topics related to self-care, beauty, skin care, and wellness. She’s also created a community on Instagram called Naked Beauty Planet where she shares her daily inspiration, products she currently loves, and stories from her podcast guests.

Over the years, Brooke has experimented extensively with her skin care regimen, dabbling in aromatherapy, plant oils, and even formulating her own beauty products at home. Her trials and tests with a variety of natural skin care remedies have encouraged her to embrace a clean and natural approach to skin care and beauty. Below, she also shares why she loves sea buckthorn oil, her sheet mask hack, and what’s in store for the podcast.

The Klog: How would you describe your beauty philosophy?

Brooke: I’d love to say that I’m a ‘less is more’ skin care minimalist, but that would be a lie. To keep it all the way real, I’m a beauty maximalist and ‘more is more kind of girl. Once I’ve found products that I love I stick to them, but I love doing the absolute most when it comes to beauty: steaming my face on the weekends, doing Gua Sha in the morning, finding new face masks I can make, sleeping with overnight hair masks, trying new nail art — I love it all. I just love beauty. I think it’s so much fun and such a powerful tool for self-expression.

The Klog: From what we’ve read, it seems like your beauty routine is a mix of natural/clean formulas and non-“clean” products. What do you look for when shopping for products?

Brooke: Yes, if all of my products could be clean that would be my absolute dream. When it comes to makeup, I have less clean beauty than I would like and I’m still waiting for a brand to give me Pat McGrath & NARS level pigments but keep it all natural.

When it comes to skin care you just absolutely have to read labels. This is a big philosophy I often talk about on my podcast. This is how you learn what your skin likes. When I was first getting into facial oils, I realized that many of my favorites had grapeseed oil as the first ingredient. Grapeseed oil is really great for sensitive skin because it’s non-irritating but also deeply hydrating. If I never read the labels on my skin care, I wouldn’t have found that link.

Another fabulous resource I love to put people on to is an app called Think Dirty. You can scan or type in tons of beauty products and they’ll tell you how toxic they are based on the ingredients. They also will recommend more natural alternatives. This app was really eye-opening for me when I was trying to decode what products were truly in fact ‘clean’ versus the ones that just used [the term] as marketing.

The Klog: We’ve heard sea buckthorn oil is one of your favorite skin care ingredients. What do you love about it? What are your go-to products that contain sea buckthorn oil?

Brooke: I love sea buckthorn oil. Even just thinking about that vivid bright orange hue gives me a thrill. I tried two serums — Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum and Living Libations Best Skin Ever facial oil — and they made my skin glow so much. As I researched more, I realized they both had sea buckthorn oil.

A single drop of sea buckthorn oil contains 190 different bioactive compounds. It really does regenerate your skin and all of the omega fatty acids and antioxidants are just so good – you can’t argue with nature. I buy it in bulk at Mountain Rose Herbs and add it to my own DIY facial oil (using jojoba oil, argan oil, grapeseed oil).

I’m also excited about the Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm because I know it uses this powerful ingredient as well.

The Klog: Charlotte told us that you have a genius sheet mask trick! Can you let us in on the secret?

Brooke: Because I’m impatient and sitting still for 20 minutes some days feels like too much to ask (which as I share sounds so ridiculous but it’s true!). I’ve taken to sheet masking in the shower. If you have a big day and want an all -day glow, pop on a sheet mask before you get into the shower. Do everything you need to do to your body – dry brush, shave, exfoliate, wash, moisturize and then pop the sheet mask off when you’re done and follow with your serums. I think the steam of the shower also helps the sheet mask ingredients absorb more.

The Klog: What are some of the best beauty and skin care tips you’ve learned from your Naked Beauty guests?

Brooke: [There are] so many I don’t know where to start. One of the things I’m proud about when it comes to Naked Beauty is that I’m interviewing women I admire. They’re not necessarily experts, so they’ve all come to these genius beauty hacks and lessons quite organically. A few that stand out to me:

Maya Allen, beauty editor of Marie Claire swears by a dab of Aquaphor on cheek bones and brow bone for an extra glisten and glow instead of a highlight [episode link]

Anya Santana, who’s my fitness inspiration, spoke about approaching a workout like you’re brushing your teeth. Just make it something you do as part of your day. It doesn’t have to be hyper-involved. Sometimes 15 minutes is enough — just do it! [episode link]

My dear friend Gillian Sagansky talked about the importance of coming out of the ‘shame cave’ and her personal struggle with OCD and anxiety. Once she embraced these as part of who she was, she felt so much more beautiful. Beauty is much deeper than what our outward appearance shows. [episode link]

The Klog: On Naked Beauty, you always stress the importance of cultivating organic conversations about topics that are relevant to women of all backgrounds, such as fitness, self-care, and careers. Is there a topic that you plan to explore more in 2020?

Brooke: I definitely want to speak with more public figures that always have to look perfect as part of their brand or business because I’m curious how that reshapes your relationship with beauty once it becomes less optional. I also want to continue elevating voices of diverse women. Women who wear hijab but love makeup, trans women, women from totally different cultural backgrounds than my own.

The Klog: Any tips on creating a natural beauty routine if you’re new to skin care, oils, and aromatherapy?

Brooke: I’d say start with these essentials: jojoba oil (can be used on face or body), grapeseed oil (can also be used on face or body), and lavender essential oil. With these three ingredients you can start making calming body oils, add extra moisture to your existing products like hair conditioner, and use as a natural alternative to store bought makeup remover and moisturizer.

The Klog: Since you’re willing to take risks and create your own DIY products, do you see yourself creating your own skin care line in the future, or makeup line perhaps?

Brooke: For now, I’m balancing a full-time job with my podcast and a beauty community, @nakedbeautyplanet, where I share beauty inspo and recipes so it feels like my hands are full but never say never!

The post Brooke DeVard Ozaydinli Of The Naked Beauty Podcast Talks Natural Ingredients And Skin Care Hacks appeared first on The Klog.

A chemical peel is a procedure that refines the skin’s surface by removing the top layers of dead skin cells, leaving behind a smooth surface and, ideally, a glass skin-like finish. 

While typically performed at a facial spa, there are less intense versions of a chemical peel that you do at home. Especially if you don’t have time or you’re stuck at home and don’t have the option of a professional peel, an at-home chemical peel is still easy and doable. Here, we break down the differences between the two experiences and some of our favorite at-home chemical peels on the market.

At-Home Chemical Peels vs. a Professional Chemical Peel

The main difference is the potency of formula. Ultimately, an at-home peel’s job is to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells that dulls the skin’s complexion. They can also help improve several skin concerns, such as acne, the appearance of wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and clogged pores. Professional chemical peels can contain a high concentration of a single acid or blended acids and penetrate deeper in the skin.

RELATED: Should You Use a Chemical or Physical Exfoliator?

Just because at-home chemical peels are gentler doesn’t mean they can’t cause irritation. This is why it’s important to do a patch test first, preferably on your wrist or arm.

When to Use Them

Ideally, at-home peels should be applied at night, the time of day when the skin enters its restoration phase, after your cleanser. Nighttime is the most optimal since the skin is not being interrupted by pollutants and debris from outside, giving the skin an opportunity to recuperate and rejuvenate from the chemicals. 

Depending on your skin and the formula, use an at-home peel either once a week or as a monthly or bi-monthly treatment.

Post-Peel Care

After removing the peel from your face, always make sure to follow up with a moisturizer and SPF in the morning. Moisturizer is crucial to post-peel care since chemical exfoliants can be drying and can damage the skin barrier. As always, SPF is a must because the skin is quite sensitive to the sun’s rays after a peel.

It’s also important to steer clear of certain ingredients for at least 24 hours, such as other forms of exfoliation, vitamin C, and retinoids.

What At-Home Peels to Try

Here are a few chemical peels and peels formulated with natural exfoliators to try at home:

If you have oily skin, the Unpa Charming Charcoal Black Gommage will brighten, clarify, reduce the appearance of pores, while hydrating your skin with its blend of natural charcoal extract and charcoal powder, ginseng root and baikal skullcap root extracts, and hyaluronic acid. The charcoal in this unique peeling exfoliator will do wonders by absorbing excess oil while gently removing dead skin cells for a more vibrant, balanced, and healthy looking skin.

If you have combination skin, try the Dr. Oracle A-Thera TeaTree Peeling Sticks. This innovative peeling stick, shaped like a huge cotton swab, is formulated with natural exfoliators, such as tea tree, lemon, and bamboo extracts, and acne-fighting acids, AHA and BHA, to effectively remove dry and flaky skin cells, and clear pores and blackheads without irritating the skin. The peeling stick can be used all over the face or as a targeted spot treatment.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, the Saturday Skin Rub-A-Dub Refining Peel Gel is a great, effective option. Unlike physical scrubs or chemical exfoliators that may irritate your skin, this peeling gel uses naturally exfoliating enzymes from papayas and pineapples to remove dead skin cells and buildup revealing a bright and smooth complexion. It is also formulated with an anti-aging and hydrating patented ingredient called Cha-7 es Complex that helps the skin regenerate and plump fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful appearance. 

If you have normal skin, the Dr. Dennis Gross Clinical Grade Resurfacing Liquid contains a high concentration of glycolic and lactic acids to improve the skin’s brightness while combating the appearance of wrinkles. Its high acid concentration of acids may not be for everyone, so make sure to perform a patch test before use.

The post How to Use At-Home Chemical Peels appeared first on The Klog.

Women with PCOS tend to experience hormonal acne regularly. This is largely because PCOS causes a production of abnormally high levels of testosterone, DHEA, and insulin, resulting in excessive activity of the sebaceous glands and oil production. If you’re seeking tips on how to deal with hormonal acne caused by PCOS, your fellow Klog readers have your back.

We recently called on The Klog Instagram community to share their experiences with PCOS hormonal acne, and we received a wealth of responses. Read on for some of the best advice and anecdotes we received, and consult with your doctor or dermatologist to see if any of the methods mentioned below might be right for you.

Tip: Drink peppermint and licorice tea.

“My tip is to drink peppermint and licorice tea. [It] helps to regulate my testosterone levels. I [have] also [quit] consuming dairy products and only [eat] meat once a week.”
– @the_kubra

RELATED: PCOS and Your Skin: How It Affects Your Skin and How to Treat Its Hormonal Acne

Tip: Follow a clean, healthy diet and practice healthy lifestyle habits.

“Nothing beats a good diet! For me, it’s been a dairy-free lifestyle. However, for the one or two pesky [breakouts] that come in when I’m stressed, the COSRX Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser has worked wonders! So has the Klairs Freshly Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Drop for acne scars!”
– @thepalathinkal

“Consuming less carbs every day. [Playing] sport[s]/ [having a] workout routine at least 3 times a week. Be happy!”
– @bujokoskincare

“I cut foods that spike my blood sugar to keep my hormones balanced and eat more dark veggies instead. I [have] also cut dairy.”
– @anamhasan5

Tip: Consult your doctor regarding birth control options.

“I eventually had to start birth control which my dermatologist, endocrinologist, and gynecologist all had been recommending. Nothing else was helping, but now my skin is mostly all clear!”
– @nhonan112

“I’m currently taking the pill … [it’s] currently the only solution that works with cramps, acne, and everything PCOS-related.”
– @baebaeisbaek

Tip: Consider talking to your doctor about taking vitamin supplements.

“My nurse practitioner told me about supplements. Vitamin D, Omega 3, and probiotics really helped. Treating the inside like gut health is more effect[ive] because it counters the effects hormonal imbalances cause. Women with PCOS have high testosterone and omega 3 helps in lowering that. Once I started paying attention to my gut health and going to [a] nutritionist, I got my period back.”
– @beabedonia

“… Honestly what I’ve found helpful is a supplement called DIM-plus by Nature’s Way. It’s a supplement that helps to regulate your hormones. I’ve taken it for years and it helps with so many of my symptoms.”
– @kailea_11

Tip: Add Prescription Skin Care to Your Routine.

“I took Accutane and I never had [acne] again!”
– @ari_yamazaki

“Retinol! It made a huge difference. I also use the Dewytree Ultra Vitalizing Snail Essence Water and Charlotte’s Then I Met You Birch Milk Refining Toner.”
– @fallbutterfly

The post Klog Readers With PCOS Share Their Best Skin Care Advice appeared first on The Klog.

Fragrance has always been a part of the beauty experience, and it may not agree with all skin types (We’re talking to you, dry and sensitive skin types). In an effort to accommodate our sensitive friends, K-Beauty brands have formulated beauty products that are fragrance-free. Read on to learn what fragrance-free products are part of Soko Glam staffers’ daily skin care regimens.

Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner
“This is one of my favorite fragrance-free toners. It’s [very] soothing to the skin, gets rid of hyperpigmentation, and moisturizes the skin using snail mucin.”
-Prayva Hussain, Customer Experience Associate

The Soon Jung Line by Etude House
“I love the whole Soon Jung line from Etude House. It’s formulated for sensitive skin so it doesn’t have fragrance, artificial color, or anything like that. The ingredients are amazing but the line is really inexpensive so it’s nice to not have to spend a ton of money just because you have sensitive skin.”
– Danielle Braga Jones, Social Media Marketing Manager

Rovectin Skin Essentials Activating Treatment Lotion
“What’s interesting about Rovectin is that it was originally created for people undergoing chemotherapy treatments for cancer. So the formulas had to be safe, non-irritating, and repairing. In addition to the clean formula, I love this face oil because it’s not greasy at all, yet it’s kept my skin moisturized and glowy looking all winter long. Because it’s lighter, I’ll be able to use it come spring and summer too!”
– Sarah Ferguson, Content Manager

Then I Met You Birch Milk Refining Toner
“My favorite non-fragrance product is the Birch Milk Refining Toner from Then I Met You. I have sensitive skin so I love that this product is gentle and doesn’t have any added fragrance.”
– Christina Avianto, Social Media Intern

The post The Fragrance-Free Korean Beauty Products That We Love appeared first on The Klog.

It’s the middle of winter so chapped lips may seem inescapable. Thankfully our colleague Abby, a Soko Glam customer experience associate, has let us in on a hack that she used to get her lips to stop begging for moisture for good.

Back in October, Abby was searching for a solution for chapped lips and decided to try a little experiment: She began applying hyaluronic acid serum directly on her lips under an occlusive lip balm.  

If you’re not familiar with hyaluronic acid, it’s a humectant, meaning it replenishes moisture by pulling it from the deeper layers of skin and/or the environment. It also helps skin retain moisture, and provides a plumping effect.

RELATED: How to Find a Lip Balm That Works

“If I was applying my balm at home, I would use The Plant Base Waterfall Moist Balanced Hyaluronic Acid 100 because it’s 100% hyaluronic acid and I felt it was a good option to test if this would work for me. Once I saw that it was working, any time I wanted to apply a lip balm at work, I would use the COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule,” she told us.

While humectants help increase skin hydration, to keep skin moisturized, you need to seal it all in with an occlusive formula. 

RELATED: Holy Grail Products That Never Leave Soko Glam Staffers’ Skin Care Routines

Abby has a number of favorites in her rotation, ranging from drugstore classics to K-beauty innovations including Aquaphor Lip Repair, Mamonde Lip Sleeping Mask, Klavuu Nourishing Care Lip Sleeping Pack, and Smile Direct Club Lip Balm.

In addition to retaining moisture, these products serve as a barrier, protecting lips from the cold weather elements.

This easy hack is ideal for anyone like Abby who struggles with chapped lips and has yet to find that perfect lip balm. And the best part is if you already use a hyaluronic acid serum on your face, you don’t even need to buy a new product. 

The post Kiss Chapped Lips Goodbye With This Simple Hack appeared first on The Klog.