All posts by : parimakeover

Let’s talk about dry skin. Chances are, if you’re over the age of 40, your skin’s natural oil production has slowed down and now you are wondering what type of moisturizer is best for dry skin. Sound about, right? Most dry skin moisturizers are loaded with what are called “occlusives” which are oils that give a thick, greasy feel but is this type of moisturizer truly correcting your skin dryness?

Well, let me just start by saying this. Moisturizers have come a long way and your mother’s moisturizer of yesteryears didn’t work as well as the ones formulated today. Yet, many product formulators haven’t innovated and you may not be giving your dry skin what it truly requires.

In this post, I’ll educate you on how moisturizers actually work, why formulas aren’t truly getting to the root of the issue and what you should be looking for when deciding how to choose a moisturizer for dry skin. Let’s dive in!

The History of Moisturizers

The use of moisturizers for treating dry skin dates back thousands of years with civilizations using natural remedies like animal fats, lanolin (derived from sheep wool), oils found in almonds and olives and beeswax. These all have an oily feel on the skin but worked to alleviate skin tightness and give a soft, supple feel to the skin.

In the 19th century, cold cream was invented and in later years, petroleum jelly. These also have an oily feel which would make dry skin feel better and less tight.

With the rise of cosmetic science and dermatology, moisturizers became highly specialized and commercial moisturizers were developed using not only oils (occlusives), the addition of water and emulsifiers.

Fast forward to today, moisturizers are continually being modernized to meet the needs of what we now need in a dry skin moisturizer, but it is not enough.

What made us believe that a heavy, oil-based moisturizer is the most effective for dry skin?

• Oils give the illusion of a glow. Oils give an immediate shine once applied and it reflects light so the skin does in fact look better. But that doesn’t mean it truly corrected the dryness from within.

• A false sense of relief. Oils create suppleness and when a greasy moisturizer is applied and you talk or move your face around, you don’t feel that “pull” or “tightness” on the skin. People associate this feeling with not being dry. This is simply a feeling. Again, it doesn’t mean that it improves skin dryness.

• We’ve come to expect a certain type of moisturizer for dry skin – something with occlusives that are heavy and topical. This has been passed down from our mother’s and grandmother’s moisturizers who–for most of us–were our original skincare influencers.

What does my dry skin really need?

• Water/hydration. Both dry skin and oily skin require water. Skin cells are like fish and need water to live! This means, using a toner within 60 seconds after cleansing and leaving it on damp. Use a hyaluronic acid or humectant-rich serum under moisturizer to deliver skin-plumping hydration. Learn the difference between dryness and dehydration and watch this video. Also, drinking water won’t hydrate your skin, but these three things will.

• Oil. Only dry skin types require oil since oily skin has it already built in.

• A well-formulated moisturizer for dry skin, regardless of how thick or heavy it is. Don’t fall into thinking that just because something is rich and greasy, that it’s the cure-all. Sometimes a moisturizer can add the required hydration and oil to the skin without just sitting on the top of the skin.

• Repair of your skin’s barrier. To truly correct dryness you need to repair from inside the skin, not just on the skin’s surface. Learn about fixing a damaged skin barrier.

• Avoiding the use of harsh products and ingredients. Did you know that your vitamin C serum could be creating a “vitamin C acid burn?” Ouch. Not good.

How do I choose a moisturizer for dry skin?

• Don’t judge a product by its weight. You need to look beyond the texture since even lighter textures can provide exceptional hydration and repair. Avoid making assumptions when you encounter a rich, greasy moisturizer.

• Choose dry skin moisturizers that restore the skin barrier. Ingredients listed on a bottle are often hard to sort through but at the very least, if a product is being marketed for “barrier-repair”, that’s a great sign.

• Choose a dry skin moisturizer with these key ingredients. If you really want to get serious about correcting dry skin, look for ingredients like niacinamide, linoleic acid, usnic acid, phytosterols, ceramides, shea butter, squalane, vitamin E, dimethicone and soybean oil, to start. (There are too many to list!) Here are five methods for repairing dry skin.

• Consult with an esthetician or a dermatologist for a dry skin moisturizer recommendation. Trust those who truly know and understand how the skin functions, and what your dry skin needs to be restored.

Did you know that you can get barrier correction without the use of oily occlusives? Oily and acne prone skin doesn’t need the oil dry skin does, but that doesn’t mean their barrier doesn’t need help – especially with the use of acne treatments that can really damage the skin barrier. Look at this before and after!

How long does it take to see an improvement in dryness when using the right moisturizer for dry skin?

A skin’s life cycle is 28 days, so it’s important to give any product time to see results. Dry, flaky skin needs time to cycle out and fall off, giving way to new, soft and supple skin.

If you’re looking for a moisturizer for dry skin (that is surprisingly lightweight, because it doesn’t need to be heavy!) try Skin Recovery Balm. With Barrier5 technology, it repairs the skin barrier by mimicking your skin’s natural lipids, so it hydrates without feeling greasy. It melts in rather than sitting on top, offering a smarter way to correct dryness. After it’s applied, it will initially feel tacky, which comes from hydrating humectants like glycerin and propanediol that lock in moisture. Once it dries, it starts restoring your skin’s barrier, creating a “second-skin” effect that lasts all night long. By morning, your skin will feel buttery soft and replenished.

If you prefer a more traditional, richer feel, layer with Rest Day Masque on top or use a skin oil, but on its own, it provides all the moisture your skin needs for long-term barrier health.

In summary…

As an expert esthetician who has touched thousands of faces, I’m here to tell you need to re-think how you moisturize. After all, it’s a product that you use every single day and you want to get the most benefit. You can’t just rely on a basic heavy, thick, greasy moisturizer to correct dryness. It’s just not enough. You need a dry skin moisturizer that can truly repair the skin so you can be on your way to soft, healthy and dewy skin that glows!

Celebrity Esthetician & Skincare Expert
As an esthetician trained in cosmetic chemistry, Renée Rouleau has spent 30 years researching skin, educating her audience, and building an award-winning line of products. Her hands-on experience as an esthetician and trusted skin care expert has created a real-world solution — products that are formulated for nine different types of skin so your face will get exactly what it needs to look and feel its best. Trusted by celebrities, editors, bloggers, and skincare obsessives around the globe, her vast real-world knowledge and constant research are why Marie Claire calls her “the most passionate skin practitioner we know.”

Dreams can feel stunningly real, leave us shaken and surprise us with their surreal storylines. But do dream interpretations amount to anything? Sigmund Freud, the famed neurologist and founder of modern-day psychoanalysis, had a lot to say about how we might interpret the visual, emotional and cognitive sensations we experience while asleep. He believed our dreams are actually the disguised representations of our unconscious desires, thoughts, wishes and motivations. It’s a theory that is still very much alive today.

“Throughout history, there has been both fascination and debate about what dreams are, what causes them, what they mean and the benefit they may carry,” Stephanie Gailing, wellness astrologer and author of The Complete Book of Dreams, explains. “Since antiquity, they have maintained a very important role in cultures across the globe, revered for their visionary wisdom.”

The act of trying to suss out the possible meaning of dreams can be traced as far back as the ancient Sumerian civilisation, when many people used them as prophetic guides and to help them make important decisions. According to Gailing, it wasn’t until the early 20th century—and the birth of modern psychology—that dreams were seen as a reflection of the subconscious. Nowadays, it’s common to interpret dreams in order to better understand our overall well-being.

Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical associate professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health, breaks down dreams, which typically occur in the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep stage where images or stories play out in our minds, into three types: a pleasant dream with an ideal outcome, one with a less preferred outcome (or oftentimes a bizarre one), and a nightmare. What these dreams mean is personal and can vary; it all depends on the dreamer.

“Dreams can show us things that we are experiencing in waking life but are not acknowledged in our conscious minds,” explains Gailing. “Either because we don’t have space to process them or we don’t want to deal with certain feelings or thoughts.”

Though the interpretation of dreams will be different for everyone, there are universal themes that pop up and are worth looking into if you’re trying to figure out what your dreams might mean. Consider this your crash course in basic dream analysis—or, a handy little dream dictionary, just for you. Read on for 14 of the most common types of dreams and what they could mean for you.

Dreams of being pregnant

Depending on what is going on in your life, being pregnant in a dream can mean totally different things. Gailing says it’s important to look at the details of your dream to help flesh out the overall meaning. You’ll also want to explore how you’re feeling after the dream; she says your emotional reaction can provide insights into what the dream might mean to you personally. “For example, if you have a dream about being pregnant and you have been working hard on a creative project, the dream may relate to this period of creativity you are experiencing and how you feel about it,” she explains. “It’s always important to take the dream into the context of what is happening in a person’s waking life.”

Dreams of falling

If you’re dreaming about being in a free fall, Gailing says it could mean that you feel out of control and don’t “have steady footing” in some aspect of your life. On the other end of that spectrum, however, she says that if you find yourself falling in a dream but then start flying, it could represent freedom and trusting the timing of your life.

Dreams of being chased

Someone chasing you in your dreams is another sign that you might not feel in control. Gailing says it could signify a couple of different fears, such as concern that someone is out to get you or that you’re avoiding certain responsibilities.

Dreams of flying

Whether you’re dreaming of flying like a bird or cos-playing your favourite Marvel superhero, Gailing says that the vivid dream of flying symbolises freedom and a need for adventure. However, if the dream turns into you falling as you fly, it could also mean you feel ungrounded. So remember to pay attention to what’s going on in the dream and how you feel.

Dreams of death

An obvious reading, Gailing says, of dreaming about death is that it could signify your internal fear about dying. But here’s another way she says that you can look at it: it could just be giving you a sense that a chapter or situation in your life is coming to an end—and that doesn’t always have to be a bad thing.

Dreams of your teeth falling out

One of the most common dreams people tend to have involves teeth falling out. Gailing says that there are three main dream interpretations for this. First, it could signify some sort of rebirth and transformation, as you’re releasing something old and making space for something new. The other two are more introspective and could signify feeling some sort of loss of control or internal concerns about how you present in public.

Dreams of being late or missing a deadline

These habits of tardiness showing up in your dreams usually show some sort of worry you have internally. Gailing says that it could represent worrying about a lost opportunity or stress around your relationship with time. It could also show that you’re overwhelmed by being overcommitted with responsibilities.

Dreams of being naked in public

Have you recently fallen flat on your face while walking through a crowd? Or accidentally liked an old photo of an ex while on a social media (read: stalking) deep dive? If you’re not one to brush it off and keep it moving, those embarrassed feelings may manifest in dreamland as you sleep. If you find yourself dreaming about being naked in public, Gailing says it’s most likely connected to a recent embarrassing situation you’ve found yourself in.

Dreams of infidelity

The good news: dreaming of infidelity isn’t necessarily a sign from the universe that you’re with the wrong person or that you’re tapping into some psychic ability to predict the demise of your current relationship. The bad news: you might be dealing with trust issues in general and operating from a place of fear. Both Gallagher and Gailing say that if you’re not feeling secure or have been betrayed in the past, it’s normal to have those subconscious feelings of distrust creep up. Maybe you’re having this dream because a partner has cheated on you in the past or you’re scared something will ruin a beautiful current connection. Just remember, it’s important to ground yourself rather than lash out over this particular dream.

The Science of Facial Scars Healing: Different Types, Their Causes, and How to Treat Them

 

Now, let’s talk about what actually causes those little reminders on our skin. Scars form when the dermis, the second deepest layer of your skin, gets damaged. This can happen due to various reasons—think injuries, surgeries, picking at scabs (let’s be real, we’ve all done it!), or even acne flare-ups.

• Age: As we age, our skin naturally has less collagen and elasticity, which can make healing slower and scars more noticeable.
• Skin Tone: Both darker and lighter skin tones can experience varying levels of scarring visibility.
• Location of the Injury: Scars on areas that move a lot, like joints, may not heal as well due to constant movement.
• Hormones: Fluctuating hormone levels can also play a role in how our skin heals and scars.

Types of Facial Scars

Let’s get to the juicy part—understanding the different types of facial scars! Knowing what you’re dealing with can help you find the right treatment. Here are the major types:

Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars:

 

Atrophic Scars:

If you had chickenpox, you might be familiar with atrophic scars, often called “pockmarks.” These sunken scars occur when the skin’s underlying structure, such as fat or collagen, is damaged, typically due to inflammation. Atrophic scars can be a common result of severe acne, as the intense inflammation can compromise the skin’s integrity. This type of scarring is characterized by a loss of volume, leading to the depressed appearance that can make the skin look uneven. While they can be a bit stubborn to treat, don’t fret! With the right skincare regimen and treatments, there are effective ways to help minimize their appearance and restore your skin’s texture.

 

 

• Icepick Scars: Characterized by deep, narrow indentations resembling large pores, these scars are the result of inflammation that collapses collagen beneath the skin.
• Rolling Scars: These scars present as round-edged depressions that create a wave-like texture on the skin, caused by fibrous tissue pulling the surface downwards.
• Boxcar Scars: Featuring broader, defined edges, boxcar scars develop when cysts destroy fat cells under the skin, leading to a pitted appearance.
• Hyperpigmentation: While not a traditional scar, hyperpigmentation shows up as dark spots on the skin, caused by an overproduction of melanin following an injury or inflammation. They can definitely give you pause, but there are ways to address them!
• Contracture Scars: These arise from severe burns or large injuries, causing the skin to tighten as it heals. Contracture scars can limit movement, making them particularly troublesome.

Stretch Marks:
 

Ah, stretch marks—the battle scars of growth, pregnancy, or significant weight changes! While they may not be the most glamorous feature, they tell a story of change and transformation. Stretch marks can occur anywhere on the body, but they’re most commonly found on the abdomen, hips, thighs, and breasts. So, what causes these lines, and how can you prevent or treat them? Let’s dive in!

 

• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the body goes through tremendous changes. As the belly expands to accommodate a growing baby, the skin stretches, which can lead to the formation of stretch marks. Interestingly, around 90% of pregnant women experience some degree of stretch marks!
• Weight Fluctuations: Significant weight gain or loss can also cause stretch marks. When you gain weight quickly, your skin may not have enough time to adapt to the changes, resulting in tears in the dermis.
• Puberty: The adolescent growth spurts can lead to rapid body changes, resulting in stretch marks as skin stretches to keep up with growing bones and muscles.
• Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormone levels can affect skin elasticity. For instance, elevated levels of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, may weaken skin fibers, making them more susceptible to tearing.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin elasticity. Hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to tearing under pressure.
• Moisturize Regularly: Applying a rich moisturizer or body oil can help keep your skin supple. Look for products with ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or hyaluronic acid, as these are excellent for locking in moisture and improving skin elasticity.
• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for maintaining skin health. Focus on foods high in vitamins C and E, zinc, and silica, which promote collagen production and skin repair.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and improve circulation, which promotes overall skin health.
• Gradual Weight Changes: If you’re planning to lose or gain weight, aim for a gradual change. Sudden shifts in weight can lead to stretch marks, so slow and steady wins the race!

• Topical Treatments: Look for creams or oils that contain ingredients like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, or peptides. These can help stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture.
• Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can target the deeper layers of skin to stimulate collagen production and reduce the visibility of stretch marks. This approach may require multiple sessions for the best results.
• Microneedling: This treatment involves creating tiny punctures in the skin to promote healing and collagen production. It can improve the appearance of stretch marks over time.
• Chemical Peels: Superficial chemical peels can exfoliate the outer layer of skin, promoting new skin growth and improving the appearance of stretch marks.
• Microdermabrasion: This technique exfoliates the skin, helping to fade the appearance of stretch marks and improve overall skin texture.

 

• Hands Off! I know, I know—it’s super tempting to pick at those pesky blemishes or scabs, but trust me, resisting the urge will pay off. Let those scars heal naturally!
• Keep it Clean and Protected: Make sure to clean your wound gently and keep it covered with a bandage or medicated ointment to retain moisture.
• Stay Covered: Once the wound has healed, apply sunscreen to the area to prevent any darkening of the scar.

 

• Dermabrasion: This method gently sands the surface of the skin, promoting new skin growth and a smoother texture.
• Steroid Injections: These can flatten raised scars and reduce inflammation.
• Silicone Gels or Pads: Applying these regularly can help soften and flatten scars over time.
• Surgical Options: In severe cases, surgery may be an option to remove raised tissue and create a neater scar.

• Laser Therapy: This technique targets scarred tissue, helping to stimulate collagen production for a smoother appearance.
• Filler Injections: These can elevate depressed scars to align more closely with the surrounding skin.
• Chemical Peels: Regular use can help exfoliate and promote skin renewal, making those scars less noticeable.

 

• Antioxidants: These superheroes combat free radical damage and support healthy collagen production.
• Vitamin C: This powerhouse vitamin inhibits melanin production and aids in collagen synthesis, making it a must-have for scar fading.
• Retinol: A beloved vitamin A derivative, retinol promotes cellular turnover and helps lift away dark skin cells, revealing fresh, new skin.
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These promote skin renewal and enhance healing.
• SPF: Never forget your sunscreen! Daily application protects against further damage and prevents scars from darkening.

If you’re worried about a blemish leaving a lasting mark, don’t panic! While small pimples may leave temporary spots, they usually don’t lead to permanent scars. That said, it’s wise to be cautious. Use sunscreen to protect these areas while they heal, and keep your skincare routine consistent.

• Salicylic Acid: This classic ingredient exfoliates the skin and reveals fresh layers beneath, making it a great option for scar treatment.
• Lactic Acid: Gentle enough for all skin types, lactic acid helps improve texture and appearance when used regularly.

Natural Remedies for Scar Treatment

• Manuka Honey: Known for its healing properties, this sweet treat can be used as a mask to help fade scars over time.
• Baking Soda: Mix baking soda with water to create a paste for spot treating scars. Its exfoliating properties can help brighten the skin.

• Pro tip: Follow up with a light moisturizer or hydrating toner. Happy, hydrated skin equals smoother makeup application!

2. Prime Time, Baby!

• Pro tip: A little usually goes a long way—apply a small amount, focusing on the areas where your scars are more noticeable.

3. Next, Concealer!

• Pro tip: If your scar is more on the textured side, try layering your concealer. Let each layer set for a minute before adding the next to build up that coverage without looking cakey.

4. Time to Foundation Your Fabulousness

• Pro tip: If you’re covering scars that have texture, try a stippling motion when applying your foundation. It helps you avoid wiping away all that hard concealer work!

5. Set It and Forget It (Well, Not Really, But You Know What I Mean)

• Pro tip: Focus on setting your T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and the areas where your scars are. You’ll thank me when your makeup is still looking flawless hours later!

6. Finishing Touches for a Flawless Finish

With these easy steps, you’ll be rocking a flawless face that looks and feels amazing! Whether you’re covering scars from acne, surgery, or just life in general, makeup gives you the power to feel confident and fabulous—while still letting your natural beauty shine through. Just remember, your skin is beautiful at every stage, and these little tricks are just here to give you that extra boost. Now go out and slay the day!

• Why We Love It: It’s a great natural alternative for those looking to minimize dark spots and achieve a glowing, even complexion.

• Why We Love It: This oil provides all the benefits of retinol without drying out the skin, thanks to its hydrating formula.

• Why We Love It: These convenient pads provide both exfoliation and anti-aging benefits in one easy step.

• Why We Love It: This product is a game-changer for anyone dealing with stubborn scars, providing noticeable improvements in both texture and tone.

• Why We Love It: The soothing gel formula is easy to apply and works well for those with sensitive skin.

• Why We Love It: This serum not only helps fade scars but also protects against further damage from free radicals, giving your skin a healthier, more vibrant appearance.

Final Thoughts

Do you have any questions about fading or treating scars? Feel free to ask! I’m here to help you navigate your skincare journey and find the best solutions for your unique skin. Here’s to radiant, healthy skin—scars and all!