Maddy Zollo Rusbosin

<p>While a sweat session in the fresh air certainly sounds appealing, its imperative to take the proper precautions. Thats why if theres a chance youll encounter others during your workout, you should be wearing a face mask. </p>

<p>"This is especially important if you're outside in a crowded area, particularly city sidewalks, a mask may be both reassuring to others as well as within the guidelines set forth by your local government, explains physician Christina Sensabaugh, MD.</p>

<p>This falls in line with the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html" id="673faa9c-7cac-3387-a5d2-0ccd43060aaa">  CDCs recommendation </a> to wear a cloth face covering in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. Basically, if you live in a metropolitan area, get into the habit of masking up before putting on your running shoes.</p>

<p>Now that you know whether or not you need to wear a mask while running, you might wonder what that means for your skin.</p>

<h1> Your skin will likely become irritated in one form or another. </h1>

<p>One good thing about wearing a face mask outdoors is that it helps to shield a significant portion of your face from the sun but wearing one can also lead to some skin problems, adds <a href="https://www.sandlakedermatology.com/staff.html" id="49a55f22-9fcd-3b48-a521-7a2955ebc057">  dermatologist, Allison Arthur, MD </a> . Friction from the mask rubbing repeatedly on certain areas of the face can causes skin irritation or even raw, open sores. Other not-so-great side effects include rosacea flare-ups that occur from trapping hot, humid air against the skin and breakouts thanks to oil and sweat getting trapped in pores.</p>

<p>Like the rest of your running gear, its also important to pick a mask made out of the right material. While synthetic materials may be more effective at filtering air, theyre also harsher on the skin. If you are outdoors and keeping your distance from others, a cotton mask may be a better option for your skin, because natural fibers like cotton are much gentler and less likely to harm the skin, says <a href="http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com/" id="b742e3e3-3e07-3d04-a184-dd1aa77ac397">  Joshua Zeichner, MD </a> , a dermatologist in NYC. If youre <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/a31946407/joann-fabrics-mask-kits/" id="aba62085-4d88-3615-aa78-13723de4c9c4">  DIY-ing a mask </a> , consider using moisture-wicking materials that sports apparel is made of to minimize sweat and friction. Tempted to loosen up complexion-rubbing mask? Resist the urge. According to Dr. Zeichner, a face covering wont be effective without direct contact with the skin since you need a tight seal to protect against infected air.</p>

<h1> Prep your skin before and after your run. </h1>

<p>Another way to prevent irritation is by using an ultra-gentle cleanser before and after your run like <a href="https://www.dove.com/us/en/washing-and-bathing/beauty-bar/white-beauty-bar.html" id="edf9e963-0e64-38a3-a219-8f00e3407883">  Doves Beauty Bar </a> . It cleanses the skin without compromising the integrity of the skin barrier itself, says Dr. Zeichner. And its cleansing molecules are the same types of hydrating ingredients found in traditional moisturizers. He also suggests applying <a href="https://www.target.com/p/vaseline-original-unscented-petroleum-jelly-1-75oz/-/A-12980616?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&amp;AFID=google_pla_df&amp;fndsrc=tgtao&amp;CPNG=PLA_Beauty%2BPersonal+Care%2BShopping_Local&amp;adgroup=SC_Health%2BBeauty&amp;LID=700000001170770pgs&amp;network=g&amp;device=c&amp;location=9011784&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjws_r0BRCwARIsAMxfDRgUMmIgD6nhti1fYfMRF0PZxGGxVp9Wn9KBiGmemNpP9NcJ3GAPZvkaAmSREALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" id="081bf856-f3a4-32f2-ac61-ab58d7c26200">  Vaselines Petroleum Jelly </a> to any areas where the mask will come in direct contact with the skin to maintain hydration and reduce friction. This is just like preparing for a marathon and preventing your shirt from rubbing on your skin leading to skin irritation, he continues.</p>

<p>Other complexion saving tips? Skip wearing foundation and primer underneath your mask (no one will see you anyway!) and if you are experiencing a little inflammation, apply a hydrocolloid bandage on clean, dry skin before putting on your face covering. This will promote healing and prevent further damage to the skin, says Dr. Arthur. And make sure that all exposed areas of skin not covered by the mask are protected with sunscreen. After all, the last thing you want is irritated skin and a sun burn. Once youve wrapped your workout, cleanse skin and then apply a soothing moisturizer to repair and rehydrate the skin. </p>

<h1>  Treat breakouts with benzoyl peroxide. </h1>

<p>If you notice that youre starting to breakout around your mouth, Dr. Zeichner recommends trying a spot treatment that relies on benzoyl peroxide since it lowers levels of acne causing bacteria that thrive in oily environments and promote breakouts. For example, <a href="https://www.neutrogena.com/skin/skin-acne/skin-acne-benzoyl-peroxide/on-the-spot-acne-treatment/6801790.html?cgid=skin-acne-benzoyl-peroxide#start=6" id="df70c517-dd54-3a02-a3dd-0ddf53151258">  Neutrogenas On-The-Spot Acne Treatment </a> with 2.5% benzoyl peroxide has been shown to be as effective as higher concentrations in treating inflamed pimples but causing less irritation, he furthers. Just make sure to wash off your face before putting a mask back on as benzoyl peroxide can bleach darkly colored fabrics.</p>

<p>And keep in mind your face isnt the only thing that needs cleansing after a sweaty run: If you have a reusable fabric mask, its important wash that too, so that it doesn't become a reservoir of sweat, dirt, and oil, explains Dr. Arthur since that will amplify any adverse skin conditions.</p>

What Running In A Face Mask Does To Your Skin

Its safe to say that COVID-19 has disrupted all aspects of regular life: The office has been replaced by a makeshift work-from-home set-up, happy hour is now held virtually on Zoom, and your go-to workout routine has moved from the gym to your living room. Luckily, theres some good news: <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/visitors.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcommunity%2Fparks-rec%2Fvisitors.html" id="f95bd0f5-47d5-...

This Is What Running In A Face Mask Does To Your Skin

<p>Once a week set aside a little time after you shower to treat your feet. If your heels aren't already softened up from your shower, soak them in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes to do so. If youre feeling fancy, put in a few drops of your favorite essential oil or use a pre-packaged foot soak like <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Dr-Teal-s-Pure-Epsom-Salt-Foot-Soak-2-lbs/17324983?wmlspartner=wlpa&amp;selectedSellerId=197&amp;adid=22222222227000000000&amp;wl0=&amp;wl1=g&amp;wl2=c&amp;wl3=42423897272&amp;wl4=pla-51320962143&amp;wl5=9011784&amp;wl6=&amp;wl7=&amp;wl8=&amp;wl9=pla&amp;wl10=8175035&amp;wl11=online&amp;wl12=17324983&amp;veh=sem&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA4Y7yBRB8EiwADV1haQM2qtbizLCetFqi0hCX7_zBDQtXKcCJUrpTMCyODE5yDznkfJWm8xoCl4sQAvD_BwE" id="e3cd7807-b2c6-3aa2-a829-c344765d9f6f">  Dr. Teals Pure Epsom Salt </a> that has peppermint essential oil, baking soda, aloe and coconut oil in it to repair and refresh. Afterwards, physically exfoliate and slough off dead skin with a pumice stone like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Pumice-Callus-Zenda-Naturals/dp/B01HIPSFV0" id="7a0379c6-6031-372d-a153-9817b6009a1e">  Natural Earths Lava Pumice Stone </a> .</p>

<p>For hardened heels, its crucial to use a moisturizer daily. Look for one with urea or lactic acid on the ingredient label as these will exfoliate as well as hydrate, explains <a href="https://www.dremilysplichal.com/" id="5822f09e-3e60-3275-aea2-fc9c6ef1d3fe">  Emily Splichal </a> , DPM, a functional podiatrist and human movement specialist.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.cvs.com/shop/arm-hammer-heels-feet-moisturizer-plus-gentle-exfoliators-4-oz-prodid-2350493" id="8ba53e37-123d-3d45-adf5-f0a4d3f8041d">  Arm &amp; Hammers Heels &amp; Feet Moisturizer Plus Gentle Exfoliators </a> is a great multitasker since its formulated with baking soda, alpha hydroxy acid (like citric, glycolic, and lactic) exfoliators, and coconut oil. Plus, it has a no-touch massaging brush so you can apply it mess-free.</p>

<p>You can also look to your pantry for a DIY solution. You can put any oils olive oil or coconut oil on the heel but wait to do this until after you soak as oils acts as a sealant to moisture, Dr. Splichal furthers. She also suggests sealing it into skin with saran wrap to lock in moisture (or you can always opt for moisturizing socks like <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/earth-therapeutics-reg-2-pack-super-plush-aloe-moisture-socks/3330818?skuId=61904941&amp;mrkgcl=609&amp;mrkgadid=3254088493&amp;enginename=google&amp;mcid=PS_googlepla_nonbrand_googleplascatchall_local&amp;product_id=61904941&amp;adtype=pla&amp;product_channel=local&amp;adpos=1o4&amp;creative=233266446207&amp;device=c&amp;matchtype=&amp;network=g&amp;utm_campaignid=71700000037121956&amp;utm_adgroupid=58700004140008723&amp;targetid=92700042959683021&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds&amp;&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA4Y7yBRB8EiwADV1haSpIEJmev3g3VGlz2-6_nEU6EJ__2mE4UHvijt5vAgRUXjPSrkAhGxoCvYkQAvD_BwE" id="54d892d2-3d4c-3dcd-a4f8-9f991b27de6d">  these </a> with built-in aloe).</p>

<p>If youre constantly dealing with cracked skin, it may be time to reevaluate your shoe collection as certain pairs can aggravate heelsespecially tighter ones that are restrictive of movement like boots or pairs that have a stiff heel counter (the little plastic insert thats used to reinforce the heel cup and increase support), notes Dr. Splichal. Her favorite sole soothers? Shoes with softer fabrics that dont have a heel counter such as <a href="https://www.allbirds.com/?iv_=__iv_p_1_g_40613933713_c_257773279670_w_kwd-682022525_n_g_d_c_v__l__t__r__x__y__f__o__z__i__j__s__e__h_9011784_ii__vi__&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=Search+%2F%2F+US+%2F%2F+Allbirds+Brand+M&amp;utm_content=257773279670_40613933713&amp;utm_term=all%20birds_kwd-682022525&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAvonyBRB7EiwAadauqaKcxsOn_D6bC0LyGqHWoz10WrWtn5XVL6wwrGoH2rSt-uH82NfPEBoCZRwQAvD_BwE" id="092a9f7b-61ed-3f2c-aa9e-78f02ace79ce">  All Birds </a> or <a href="https://www.coach.com/coach-mckenna-driver/G4466.html?dwvar_color=OUS&amp;dwvar_size=9.5+B&amp;src=googleshopping&amp;cid=S_GPLAG4466&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA7OnxBRCNARIsAIW53B-ey4xqztVH9iTuHUqGiNV2k9dJs6acw-mnY10xK40qkXDkdj_01JQaAt8IEALw_wcB" id="5ef8d51e-3fc0-3821-a3e8-5bb020c20b75">  Coach loafers </a> .</p>

<p>Step 4: Make Your Foot Care A Routine</p>

<p>Just like your skincare routine, its equally important to continue to give your feet some TLCeven after youve healed them. The best treatment for cracked heels is avoiding it in the first place which means daily moisturizing and weekly exfoliatingthis is important in both cold and warm weather, advises Dr. Splichal, which in all honesty, is pretty easy advice for anyone looking to put their best foot forward. </p>

Theres nothing worse than deciding to slip on your favorite pair of backless shoes and seeing rough, cracked skin. While a pedicure definitely helps improve the look of fugly feet, realistically you wont always be able to get one, plus the results don't last more than a few days. Luckily, its easier than you think to keep your heels smooth at-home. Not only will DIY-ing it save you money and time, but itll also help ease the pain that dry, cracked heels can cause. Below, find expert-approved...

How To Heal Cracked Heels In 4 Steps, According To A Podiatrist

<p>The ingredients in SPF can break down, losing their effectiveness to filter or block ultraviolet light, says dermatologist <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drallisonarthur/" id="1a5b394d-00b0-379a-a71b-b23bd7d51c13">  Allison Arthur </a> , MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Orlando, Florida.</p>

<p>Not only can using <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19912968/using-expired-makeup/" id="9f12aedd-f21f-3e0b-a4af-a5ccd57ab8ba">  an old, expired formula </a> be ineffective, but it also can result in a nasty sunburn. Heres everything else you need to know about how sunscreen expires so you can stay safe in the sun.</p>

<h1> What's the typical shelf life of SPF? </h1>

<p>Just like a carton of milk, skincare products have expiration dates. Before applying, double-check what the packaging says to ensure its still fresh. But beware: Some bottles may not have one listed.</p>

<p>If you buy a sunscreen that lacks an expiration date, it's helpful to write the purchase date on the product so you know how long you've had it, advises Dr. Arthur. Forgot to label it? A general rule of thumb is that if its over a year old, its time to replace it. </p>

<p>The year-rule should be applied to both chemical and physical sunscreens. According to Henry Lim, MD, a dermatologist in Detroit, Michigan, chemical formulations (ones with ingredients such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, and homosalate) will degrade over time due to oxidation, while <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g27432505/best-natural-sunscreen/" id="7cccd267-3058-33c2-ab8b-0238dca4ba9d">  physical protectants </a> (such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) will begin to clump together, rendering them ineffective.</p>

<p>Another thing that could speed up your bottles retirement party is heat exposure. Extreme temperatures may lead to more rapid degradation of sunscreen, especially for chemical filters, says Dr. Arthur, so definitely dont apply an older bottle thats been stored in the trunk of a hot car or in a place that doesn't have AC. </p>

<h1> What are the warning signs your sunscreen has expired? </h1>

<p>Even if your sunscreen is technically not expired, there are a few tell-tale signs that its gone bad prematurely. The first thing to watch out for is any changes in texture. Its consistency should never look or feel different upon application. If the product becomes watery, grainy, or changes color, throw it away! says Dr. Arthur. </p>

<p>Another reason to send your SPF on a dumpster dive is if it has a funky smell. </p>

<h1> Make sure you're fully protected. </h1>

<p>While a quality sunscreen is the best way to stay safe in the sun-and if youre applying it daily, theres really no excuse to have an expired bottle on your hands-there are other things you can do to shield yourself. This is especially true if youre going to play sunburn roulette with an iffy bottle of SPF that may or may not be expired.</p>

<p>First, try to avoid the peak hours of sunshine, a.k.a. anytime from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. UV exposure is greater during that time frame compared to earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. </p>

<p>Remember that shade is your friend too, so plop down under a leafy tree, umbrella, or cabana whenever possible. Cover up with clothing, wide brimmed hats, and sunglasses, adds Dr. Arthur. I am a huge fan of <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/g21730143/best-sun-protective-clothing-workout/" id="90f609e6-f93f-356b-ae1a-a189ea4cb357">  sun protective clothes </a> that use fabrics specifically designed to block UV rays.</p>

If you cant remember the last time your bare skin saw the light of day, think twice before applying the first bottle of SPF you find stashed in your bathroom and ask yourself the important question: Does sunscreen expire? Similar to how <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19943544/does-makeup-expire/" id="2ef745e8-6d30-3257-acdd-6410e955a71b">  mascara dries out </a> and gets clumpy, sunscreen also deteriorates over time.

Does Sunscreen Really Expire?

<p>After all, paying a complete stranger to rip off your pubes-with hot wax at that!- is way more intimidating than deciding to <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19951801/bangs-for-your-face-shape/" id="89d913af-eb32-33d4-a72a-60f24de83a40">  get bangs </a> . To ease your fears, Noemi Grupenmager, founder of <a href="https://unikwax.com/" id="37eccc48-683d-3847-a6ae-e0cabe2f97e9">  Uni K Wax </a> , is here to answer all of your most burning questions, so you can keep calm and wax on.</p>

<h1> Why should I willingly sign up for a bikini wax? </h1>

<p>In terms of down-there hair removal, getting a professional wax is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your bikini line smooth. </p>

<p>Waxing allows the hair to grow back in thinner, sparser, and weaker, and it helps exfoliate the skin. Plus: Its much more convenient as the results from waxing last longer than shaving, says Grupenmager.</p>

<h1> What are the different kinds of waxes?  </h1>

<p>Generally speaking, there are two types: soft and hard wax. Soft wax is applied at a very high temperature in small areas and removed with paper strips that you often see in movies with people screaming when its ripped off, says Grupenmager. Whereas hard wax is pulled directly off the skin with the technicians hands. </p>

<p>Then, theres sugaring ( <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a26987095/what-is-sugar-wax/" id="e57093e8-b3bc-3f75-aa3c-faf09f29cf7a">  you can read all about that hair removal technique here </a> ). You can also try giving yourself <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19942424/home-waxing-kits-hair-removal/" id="74b2b940-22e1-3d52-a82b-7a555c46c617">  a bikini wax at home </a> , but if you're prone to skin sensitivity or ingrowns, better to save the task for pro.</p>

<h1> How long does my pubic hair have to be for a bikini wax?  </h1>

<p>The standards of the waxing industry recommend the length to be a quarter to an eighth of an inch, says Grupenmager, but many waxing pros have certain application techniques to get even shorter hair. </p>

<p>And no, there's no such thing as hair that's too long for waxing. So dont even worry if youre coming in with a full bush: Your waxer has seen it all and is equipped with the tools to remove hair of all lengths. </p>

<h1> When should I get a bikini wax before vacation? </h1>

<p>For waxing first-timers, Grupenmager suggests going in one to two days before your vacation. That way, if you do experience any redness or tenderness afterwards, your bikini line will have time to recover before you need to slip on your swimsuit.</p>

<p>Most likely, yes. Before you panic, know its more of a this-is-slightly-uncomfortable type of pain than an OMG-make-it-end-now one. Plus, half of the discomfort during your first time is the mental anguish and anticipation of your pubic hair about to get yanked off your lady parts. </p>

<p>The more you wax, the more you get used to the feeling-and veterans know that its NBD. According to Grupenmager, avoid scheduling it right around your period (youre more sensitive down there three days before and during your cycle). If youre still worried, pop a Tylenol 30 minutes before your appointment and try taking a deep breath right before each section is removed. </p>

<h1> How long will my bikini wax last? </h1>

<p> For those customers who wax routinely, they usually return between four to six weeks, says Grupenmager, but for anyone who likes that extra-smooth finish, you can come back after three weeks.</p>

<p>Grupenmager also says that if youre transitioning from shaving to waxing, try scheduling a touch-up service since it helps you start to even out the hair growth in the waxed area so that over time, as you continue to wax, you have longer results and begin growing softer, sparser, weaker hair.</p>

<h1> Is there anything I should do afterwards?  </h1>

<p>After waxing we always recommend using sun protection and drinking enough water, so your skin is hydrated, advises Grupenmager. Also try not to wear super tight clothes like leggings or form-hugging jeans all the time. Constantly wearing tighter clothes can create friction in the bikini area, which can eventually lead to ingrown hairs or irritation. </p>

<h1> Speaking of, whats the best way to deal with ingrowns?  </h1>

<p><a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19947626/ingrown-hair-removal-videos/" id="25c0709b-77d9-313d-a961-2d9bbafc3855">  Ingrowns can happen </a> when a hair gets trapped beneath the skin. Switching from shaving to waxing your bikini area should drastically cut back on them, but sadly, even with waxing, they can happen. Luckily, theres a few good habits to follow post-wax that should help reduce your risk.</p>

<p>The first: <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a26344051/skinfix-renewing-scrub-review/" id="8cd1a0c3-e0e4-37e7-a502-82215df86bb0">  Exfoliating in the shower </a> . Exfoliating helps clear out dead cells that can prevent the hair follicle from growing outward, explains Grupenmager. Then, after you dry off, apply a serum or treatment designed to treat ingrowns and other bumps. Grupenmager personally likes SENSE In-Grown Hair Roll-On-You apply it twice a day and in about a week the ingrown hair will pop out, she adds.</p>

<p>Another word of advice? Once the hair finally breaks free, resist the urge to pluck or shave it. Its better to wait until your next wax sesh to ensure the entire piece of hair is properly removed from the follicle (attempting to pull it out yourself can cut the hair in half, creating another ingrown hair). </p>

How long does a bikini wax last? Will it hurt? Is it going to be totally awkward? If youre considering waxing your nether regions for the first time, theres a good chance these are a few of the questions that have gone through your head.

How Long Does A Bikini Wax Last—Plus Everything Else You're Too Embarrassed To Ask

<p>Seborrheic dermatitis, the clinical term for dandruff, can happen anywhere you have hair, which means more than just your head is susceptible. It can rear its flaky head at more unexpected places like your eyebrows. (Your chest, laugh lines, groin, and butt are also potential hot spots for seborrheic dermatitis, too.)</p>

<p>Fortunately, its a super treatable issue, so theres no need to panic the next time you see a little flakiness. Heres everything you need to know about this not-so-fun skin condition that affects even the most well-groomed arches.</p>

<p>While dryness and flakiness in the brow area can be caused by <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a21765033/eczema-on-face-treatment/" id="abd36180-c23d-37be-a542-2d9436c434ec">  eczema </a> or contact dermatitis, true dandruff is the result of three main factors: The presence of Malassezia globose [a fungus] on the skin, a genetic predisposition to dandruff, or the presence of sebum, explains Ilyse Lefkowicz, MD, Head &amp; Shoulders dermatologist.</p>

<p>The easiest way to determine if youre dealing with actual seborrheic dermatitis? According to Dr. Lefkowicz, youll typically see pink or red patches with scales that tend to be greasy instead of soft and white. </p>

<p>Similar to how youd treat your scalp, gently cleanse the affected area with an <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g22131683/best-dandruff-shampoos/" id="d82ddb8c-570a-3967-a75f-9adb1660803d">  anti-dandruff shampoo </a> , like Head &amp; Shoulders, that contains zinc pyrithione (a proven anti-dandruff active). It is designed to kill fungus, and contains ingredients to calm inflammation. After washing brows to get rid of any build-up, <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g25655795/best-moisturizer-sensitive-skin/" id="a41eac9e-fabe-35a4-a134-501b769a7df2">  apply a moisturizer </a> over dry or scaly patches.</p>

<p>However, if the flaking is severe or results in red patches, I would recommend seeing a dermatologist, advises Dr. Lefkowicz. Your doctor will likely prescribe you a topical anti-fungal cream or a short-term topical steroid cream to rein in flakes. </p>

<p>Additionally, keep your stress levels in check. It's easier said than done, but anxiety can perpetuate the problem, as it does with so many other complexion-related conditions. So go ahead and book that yoga class or massage-your skin will thank you. </p>

<h1> Is there anything I should avoid doing?  </h1>

<p>Just like you shouldn't pick zits, keep your fingers away from the flakes in your dandruff-ridden brows. Trying to remove flakes from an already inflamed area is only going to make the situation worse. While it may look similar, these flakes are more complex than <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a26856300/6-ways-to-get-rid-of-dry-peeling-skin-fast/" id="6031243a-c256-3c3c-a6d2-c1473a4ced91">  dry, peeling skin </a> , so you cant just exfoliate them away either.</p>

<p>Avoid substances like glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, acne medicines, or anti-aging creams as these will only cause further irritation, adds Dr. Lefkowicz. Another thing to watch out for: scalding hot showers. The heat from the water strips moisture from skin, which in turn, amplifies flakiness. </p>

<h1> Do I need to change my grooming habits?  </h1>

<p>If youre prone to brow dandruff, its crucial to make cleansing your arches a regular part of your skincare routine. Thats the first step to staying flake-free. Then, according to Dr. Lefkowicz, as long as youre properly treating seborrheic dermatitis, go ahead and <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g19574651/how-to-shape-eyebrows/" id="98127b7f-d483-3cd3-acce-4553396d813f">  shape your eyebrows </a> as usual. But only if the inflammation is under control, she warns. If there are any signs of inflammation, I recommend holding off on waxing or tweezing until the condition is treated and there arent any flare ups.</p>

<p>One additional thing to keep in mind during a flare-up? If you love filling in your arches, always moisturize the area before applying any additional pigment to create a smooth surface. Otherwise, your go-to brow product can draw even more attention to flakes-and no one has time for that. </p>

The Unexpected Thing That Can Ruin Your Brow Game

If youve ever experienced <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19939756/dandruff-facts/" id="0f647abe-8cf3-3fc9-a686-58b887c391db">  scalp dandruff </a> , you know how annoying it can be. Another place flakes can wreak havoc: your brows. Yes, eyebrow dandruff is a thing.

Yes, Eyebrow Dandruff Is A Thing—Here's How To Deal

<p>Even though old school toners got a bad rap (and now <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g25135510/best-drugstore-toners/" id="de5cdf14-bd1b-35ef-afa7-836d2c5bd095">  new and improved formulas </a> are making a major comeback), not all their ingredients are worth leaving in the past. Witch hazel, for example, is having a major resurgence lately, and witch hazel for acne is especially great. Heres everything you need to know about this blemish-blaster-and why its back and better than ever.</p>

<p>Known for its therapeutic properties, witch hazel is derived from the bark and leaves of a flowering shrub found in North America. Witch hazel contains gallic acid and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory properties, says dermatologist David Bank, MD, explaining why its an ideal option for battling breakouts. Witch hazel toners and astringents provide a gentle way to remove excess oils and reduce inflammation in acne patients. </p>

<p>While its generally safe for all skin types, it may be more effective if youre on the oily side. The tannins and alcohol content of the toners and astringents that it's added to might be too drying for those with sensitive or dry skin, says Dr. Bank. To ensure you dont dehydrate skin, look for formulas that are alcohol-free or have nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera. </p>

<p>Its best used in the form of a toner or cleanser, advises Dr. Bank. Just like OG toners, the best way to apply witch hazel is with a cotton pad, so sweep it all over your dry face after cleansing and before the rest of your skincare routine. Beyond reducing oil build-up, witch hazel calms and soothes irritated skin. This makes it an effective way to combat body breakouts as well, so rub it on bacne, <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19895116/butt-acne/" id="da4ad1a5-b10a-3738-ab13-d88606ed09c8">  buttne </a> , or any other pimples popping up in weird places. However, if your skin tends to dry out quickly (read: flakes for days), try using it as a spot treatment instead.</p>

<h1> Does it help with other skin conditions?  </h1>

<p>Witch hazel has been touted as a healing plant for centuries-even Native Americans and early English settlers used it to soothe minor cuts, abrasions, and sores. They werent wrong in their thinking since according to Dr. Bank, it can be used today to treat bug bites, sun burns, hemorrhoids, and poison ivy. One thing it wont help out with? Pre-existing acne scars. Despite its breakout-fighting powers, any permanent indentations or textural changes due to persistent zits needs to be addressed with your derm-not your bottle of witch hazel. </p>

<h1> Does it have any negative side effects?  </h1>

<p>Just like you wouldnt drench your face in salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide on the reg, dont go overboard with witch hazel either. Remember: Moderation is key when it comes to anti-acne products. Another thing to keep in mind (especially if your skin can be finicky): Witch hazel contains eugenol, a fragrance compound that can cause sensitivity, says Dr. Bank. So, its always a good idea to do a patch test first to make sure you dont react.</p>

<h1> What are the best products to try? </h1>

<p>While there are a ton of great options on the market, here are four standouts products thatll leave your face happier and clearer than it was before: </p>

Body glitter, Lip Smackers, hair crimpers, and witch hazel for acne. If you grew up in the '90s, these are just a few of the beloved beauty staples that filled your medicine cabinet. There are some products, however, that dont pile on the nostalgia: Take <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19952473/how-to-use-facial-toner/" id="666cf11c-4400-3631-aaf9-bb17a9539773">  toners </a> for instance. Designed to be used after washing, they often stung upon application due to their high l...

Yes, You Can Totally Use Witch Hazel For Acne—Here's How

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Pulse Ghana is the most followed news and entertainment platform, informing and engaging young Ghanaians round the clock, providing updates by the hour.

Maddy Zollo Rusbosin

Articles written by the author

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