More of a good thing is NOT a good thing. We have been conditioned to believe (myself, formerly) and to think “If I cleanse more, scrub more, tone more, moisturize more, exfoliate more – THAT is what will improve my skin”. How has it been going? Are you seeing the miraculously promised results?

I propose a shift in the application process if you have become a skincare product over user or if your skin is not as balanced as you had hoped after all of these wonderfully advertised! products have been given the benefit of the doubt – I’m always sarcastic when referring to false advertising because it infuriates me that it is just our governmental way.

Begin only using a mildly or non foaming cleanser and a moisturizer for at least a week (gasp!) to give your skin a break from all of the extra stripping and drying ingredients applied onto it. If your skin is not the least bit dry, only cleanse for a week and skip the moisturizer step altogether.

Take a look at any of your product containers or packaging that actually list the ingredients – really look at it. Can all of those chemical ingredients and formulations be GOOD for the skin? 40-60% and higher of what is applied to the skin gets absorbed into the blood stream. Now multiply that product ingredient list times the number of products that you actually apply onto your face and body. If you are purchasing typical name brand over the counter, well-advertised products, take the much welcomed break. Your skin will thank you for your willingness to minimize the assault and aggravation beneath the skin surface and it may begin to recognize it has the ability to repair itself if given the chance.

In extreme cases the skin may be too far gone or imbalanced within and beneath the pore to heal itself of the imbalance and reach a healed state. In these cases contact me and I can assist. In the meantime, give your skin a break!

Wishing you healthy skin,

Melissa