Every week we invite questions from the Instagram community to be answered by our in-house esthetician. There’s such a wealth of great information that comes from these sessions. We like to share it so everyone can benefit. Here, in another installment of Ask the Esthy, we share our recent Q&A forums.
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The Best of Our Recent Q&A Forums
Q: I just switched from the 15% Mandelic Acid Serum to the Exfol-A Forté, and I have noticed some breakouts. Is this normal?
A: Totally normal. Your skin is acclimating to a new product. While both mandelic acid and retinoids exfoliate the skin, they do so at different rates and with varying intensity. Exfol-A Forté™ is level III of our retinoid series and is a much stronger formulation than the 15% Mandelic Acid Serum (Level II). Exfol-A Forté™ increases surface exfoliation during the first weeks of use, which can temporarily make the skin's appearance less even. While breakouts are not uncommon during this initial phase, you will likely notice some flaking as well. Once everything is brought to the surface and your skin has acclimated, your skin will appear smoother, and the flaking will stop.
Q: How long should I wait for serum (a retinoid, for example) to soak in before I moisturize?
A: Ideally, ten minutes. If you're in a hurry, at least wait until your skin feels dry to the touch before applying moisturizer or any other product. We recommend going easy on moisturizer while using retinoid products, especially during the acclimation phase when skin is flaking. The aim is to support the skin's natural exfoliation process, and adding moisturizer can encourage buildup on the skin’s surface.
Q: How long does it take for MaxiLip plumper to work and how long does it last?
A: You will start feeling a tingling sensation in a matter of seconds and the full plumping effect in about a minute. Maxilip Lip Plumper has a cumulative lip plumping effect, meaning over time, with consistent use, your lips will appear fuller. The visible effects last a few hours.
Q: My 18-year-old son has terrible acne. I just ordered BP 10% Acne Medication Gel, Derm-A-Gel, and BP 3% Acne Treatment Wash. Is this the best course for him?
A: For stubborn breakouts, BP 10% Acne Medication Gel, Derm-A-Gel®, and BP 3% Acne Treatment Wash are a great combo. Be aware that your son's skin is going to become very dry initially as he acclimates to the products. Don't worry. This is the clearing phase. Ice before applying the products, and start out using the BP for just ten minutes a night before rinsing off. Work up to an hour a night. To enhance product absorption and optimize results, he should use the Daily Repair Pads following the BP 3% Acne Treatment Wash. If breakouts are severe or cystic, it's also worth checking in with a dermatologist.
Q: Should I use BP 10% Gel every day even after my acne has cleared?
A: If your acne has cleared, back off the BP 10%Gel Medication but continue the acne treatment with BP 3% Acne Treatment Wash or BP 3% Acne Treatment Cleanser with Buffing Beads along with 15% Mandelic Acid Serum(Level II) or 8% Mandelic Acid Serum. For a great weekly booster, supercharge a Sulfur Clay Mask Acne Treatment by applying a thin layer of BP 10% Acne Medication Gel underneath, then let it dry, then rinse as usual. If you find that you begin breaking out again, go back to BP 10% Gel Medication.
Q: Can I use Mandelic Acid with Benzoyl Peroxide?
A: It depends on your skin tone. Deeper skin tones can be more prone to temporary discoloration when benzoyl peroxide causes irritation. Mandelic acid can be used in the morning and BP at night, but you should not layer them.
Q: I have sensitive, acne-prone skin and acne scars. Which serum should I use?
A: When you have sensitive skin, you must build up your skin tolerance to higher percentages of actives. The way to do that is to start with the lowest levels. In this case, we would recommend 8% Mandelic Acid Serum in the mornings to help clarify the look of blemish-prone skin, calm the appearance of redness, and fade the look of post-acne marks; and Derm-A-Renew at night to mildly exfoliate and smooth the look of skin texture.
Q: How do I know I am doing my regimen correctly?
A: The simple answer is results. You will see and feel the difference in the look and feel of your skin’s tone and texture. We always recommend taking pictures when you first begin using the products, then taking follow-up photos every 15 to 30 days, so you can see your progress. If you have specific questions about your progress and regimen, feel free to email your photos along with the details of your regimen, length of time you've been using it, and your questions, and we will be happy to provide insight and support. Contact us at customercare@vivantskincare.com.
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