Thursday, April 19, 2018

How Long Does It Take for Skincare Products to Work?



It can be frustrating when a new skincare product doesn’t provide results right away. We spend our hard-earned money on these claims, so we expect results! 


Don’t throw that new product away just yet! Some products actually take longer than you think to start working. So, how long does it really take for a skincare product to work? And how do you know when you should move on and try something else? Keep reading to find out! 



Some Products Do Provide Instant Results 


There are certain products from which you should expect instant results. For example, cleansers work instantly by removing makeup and dirt from skin. Skin should immediately feel soft and clean, without being overly oily or dry. 

Similarly, moisturizers and serums (especially those with hyaluronic acid), work to instantly plump and hydrate skin. For instance, skin will immediately feel softer and smoother after using our Anti-Age Serum, and will continue to improve with repeated use. 


Other products (like sheet masks) claim to instantly lift skin or create a healthy glow. These products do often work, but the results are superficial and temporary. Products like sheet masks are nice to have, but they shouldn’t be the cornerstone of your skincare routine. 



How Long Does It Take For Products to Work? 


Many skincare products don’t provide instant results. These products work to address skin on a cellular level, so you’ll need to wait for a full cycle of skin cell turnover to see results. This cycle takes around one month. As a general rule of thumb, you should stick with a new product for at least one month before deciding whether or not it’s effective. 


For certain skin concerns, this trial period is longer. For example, anti-aging products like our Night Cream and Eye Cream take about six weeks to begin to diminish fine lines and wrinkles. After this six week period, skin will continue to improve with regular use. 


Products that brighten skin and correct hyperpigmentation take even longer to work - around three months. However, they won’t work at all if they aren’t paired with a high quality sunscreen. 


Topical products for acne can take around six to twelve weeks to show results. 



Tips for Evaluating Your Products 


Make the most of your new skincare products by following these tips: 

 ● Avoid changing your entire skincare routine at once. Begin using one new product at a time, so you know whether or not it truly works for you. 

● Changes may be very gradual, so gradual that you might not notice them day to day. Take a “before” picture when you begin using a new product. One month in, take a another photo in the same lighting and compare. 
 ● It’s extremely important to stay consistent with your skincare routine. Use products as directed and don’t skip your skincare ritual, or you won’t see the results you want. 
 ● However, there are exceptions to the rule. If a skincare product is causing sensitivity like itchiness or redness, you should discontinue use. 

Remember, patience is a virtue! Waiting a little bit longer to see if a product will work may be your key to better skin.





Thursday, April 5, 2018

How to Get a Smooth Shave Every Time





A nice, clean shave makes you look and feel instantly put together. Contrary to popular belief, however, there’s more to shaving that just running a razor along your skin. Taking shortcuts or practicing bad habits can result in an uneven shave with razor burn and ingrown hairs. Whether you shave every day or just for special occasions, follow these tips to get a smooth shave - every single time!

Preparation is Key


The best time to shave is right after you take a shower. In the shower, wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser. Next, face the spray for a minute or two to thoroughly soak stubble.The hot water from the shower will soften your facial hair for a closer shave. Plus, it will remove any dead skin that can contribute to nicks and cuts.

When you step out of the shower, avoid towel-drying your face, since you’ll get the best shave by keeping skin damp.

Use a High Quality Shaving Cream


Shaving cream softens your facial hair and provides lubrication to prevent skin irritation. A high quality shaving gel also contains skin-loving ingredients that nourish your skin.

We recommend Camouflage Speed Shaving Cream, which contains moisturizing essential fatty acids from sweet almond oil and shea butter. Plus, it has soothing aloe vera and vitamin E to fight skin irritation.

Massage shaving cream liberally into skin using clean fingertips and allow to sit for two or three minutes to let the product do its magic. Floss or brush your teeth to pass the time!

Always Use a Sharp Blade


A nice, sharp, razor will basically do the work for you, allowing you to shave with light, gentle strokes. Avoid pressing too hard - this is how nicks happen!

If you have sensitive skin, avoid using razors no more than five times. Otherwise, changing your blade every week or two will do just fine. Using razor shield will also extend the life of your razor.

Technique is Key


The hair on your cheeks is softer and responds more quickly to shaving cream. Save the more difficult parts (i.e. the upper lip, chin, and around the ears) for last to give the shave cream plenty of time to soften your stubble.

Always shave in the same direction the hair grows in short, gentle strokes. Many claim that shaving “against the grain” will result in a smoother shave, but it can actually contribute to razor burn and ingrown hairs. By preparing skin correctly with hot water and shaving cream, you’ll get the same smooth results minus the irritation.


Finish Strong

When you’re done shaving, rinse your face with cold water to help close pores and soothe skin. Next, moisturize with a high quality facial moisturizer like Camouflage After Shave Lotion. Our after shave lotion contains calming witch hazel to reduce irritation, antioxidant carnosine to defend against aging free radicals. We’ve also included allantoin, which creates a barrier to lock in moisture for all-day hydration. Plus, it smells great.

Simply massage after shave lotion into skin, and you’re ready to go!


By taking a little extra time and following these simple tips, razor burn will be a thing of the past!