Let’s chat about one of my favorite topics… SKIN!
I should start my sharing that I have (at this point in my life) relatively balanced skin - but traveling and stress can send my skin into a combination haze. Growing up I had terrible acne and inflammation and I tried just about every product, diet, medicine and supplement out there. If you struggle with your skin, my first piece of advice would be to do less and consult an esthetician who has an emotional relationship to what you’re dealing with. I believe there are many qualified dermatologists and estheticians who have not dealt with acne themselves, but if you are sensitive and confused, you want to find someone who shows up with patience and understanding - and I believe a lot of that develops as a result of having dealt with something personally.
When it comes to just about every other topic I deal with some extreme bouts of imposter syndrome, but I feel like I can confidently speak about skin now. I’ve been fortunate to have met a few incredible estheticians that have taught me a lot about the ins and outs of skin.
Regulating acne, eczema and any skin condition is no easy feat, and when that clears up there are always ways to improve and maintain the integrity of your skin. There are so many factors at play - hormones, sleep, stress, nutrition. It can be as straightforward as a food sensitivity causing your skin to flare up, but my experience was a lot more trial and error. If you have skincare concerns feel free to reach out. Lord knows I have 100 tools and thoughts and tricks in my back pocket.
If you simply want to up your skincare game - the following is something to think consider:
A toner that rebalances your skin
A serum full of vitamins to replenish and repair
A gentle retinol to renew cells without irritation
A physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide - zinc is not only healing but creates an actual barrier between your skin and the sun