• Sebum is a natural oil created by the sebaceous glands that travels to the surface of the skin via hair shafts (aka pores).

• Sebum creates a healthy natural skin barrier on your dermis that protects the body from viruses, bacteria and toxins. It also traps moisture in.

• Too much sebum causes oily, shiny skin. Excess sebum trapped in pores can lead to acne.

• Too little sebum doesn’t trap enough moisture and leads to dry tight skin. It may let in viruses, bacteria and toxins.

• Whiteheads form when dead cells, dirt, oil and pollutants completely block the pore trapping sebum inside.

• Blackheads form when the pore is only partially blocked and oxidation from air turns the sebum black or brown.

• Inflammatory acne (e.g. pimples that are red and sore) occurs when pressure builds under the clogged pore and breaks through the pore wall. Your immune system attacks the leaked sebum and bacteria, causing inflammation.

• Think of sensitive skin as being born with selective skin that will let you know if it doesn’t like something.

• Sensitive skin will often turn red, irritated, dry or itchy when it comes in contact with ingredients or environments it doesn’t like.

• Sensitive skin is something you’re born with or starts at a young age. It is likely genetic and part of who you are.

• Sensitized skin is normal skin that has become sensitive due to harsh treatments, products, environments or even hormonal changes during pregnancy.

• The skin barrier begins to thin or break down and more elements are let through which causes irritation.

• Those with sensitized skin should focus on gentle care to nourish their skin and avoid harsh products.

• Frequent washing or harsh treatments aimed at fighting acne can backfire by causing irritation and more sebum- leading to a vicious cycle.

• Dry and windy environments can dehydrate skin, leaving it vulnerable and cracked while humid environments can help maintain moisture but make you prone to clogged pores.

• Environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation generate free radicals that can damage collagen, elastin and lead to irritation and inflammation. This is called oxidative stress.

• Antioxidants to the rescue! Antioxidants bind with the free radicals to neutralize the oxidative stress.

• Hydration is essential to maintaining a healthy skin barrier. It is not the same as oily skin, you can have oily skin that is dehydrated.

• Dehydrated skin is often dull, itchy and has visible fine lines. There may be dark spots or bags under the eyes.

Test:

• If you wash your face and 20 minutes after it feels tight and dry, you have dry skin.

• If you pinch your skin and it doesn’t snap back , it is dehydrated.

Pre-mature aging is when the body shows signs of aging younger than expected.

• wrinkles & fine lines
• dark spots & hyperpigmentation
• dryness & loss of skin tone
• graying hair and hair loss

Common causes of pre-mature aging are:

• sun/light exposure
• smoking
• poor diet
• poor sleep
• stress
• chemotherapy

The key to great skin is working with your body to create the optimal skin barrier for you.