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Oxygenetix Fans Making an Impact

Designed for immediate application following most cosmetic aesthetic procedures, Oxygenetix revolutionized the cosmetic industry with a pro-healing camouflage foundation. Taking center stage, Oxygenetix is proclaimed as a “must-have” foundation for its flawless application and rapid recovery camouflage safe on all skin types and tones. Oxygenetix has earned international acclaim for pro-healing topicals that are recommended and used by top plastic surgeons, dermatologists, celebrities, makeup artists, and skincare enthusiasts.

As we celebrate 10 years of headliner success, it is our pleasure to highlight Oxygenetix fan beauty bloggers and influencers that are making an impact around the globe. 

1. Kourtney Kardashian

Many know Kourtney from her family’s hit TV series Keeping Up with the Kardashians, but this socialite and American reality star has done much more than just entertain us. 

Kourtney Kardashian is arguably the most environmentally conscious in her family, with a strong dedication to using safe, healthy products for her children and herself. In April 2018 Kourtney joined the nonprofit Environmental Working Group to participate in a campaign to reform America’s outdated cosmetics law.

In a post on social media April 25, 2018, Kourtney shared, “I went to Capitol Hill with @environmentalworkinggroup yesterday to advocate for safer personal care products because everyone, including children, deserve to be protected from chemicals in their products we know cause harm. It’s time for Congress to do its job. Stand with me and take action today. #BeautyMadeBetter”

It’s no wonder why she loves the pro-healing and all-natural formulations from Oxygenetix. Since being introduced to Oxygenetix by her makeup artist, Kourtney has been a huge fan. She was quoted in Allure saying, "I recently discovered the best, breathable foundation from Oxygenetix. I make sure anyone doing my makeup uses this foundation." Kourtney wrote, "I have really sensitive skin and am prone to breaking out, so I try to keep makeup minimal on my face." 

Oxygenetix Acne Control Foundation keeps her blemishes at bay so she can worry about bigger things like taking care of her 3 adorable children and advocating for healthier homes. 

Kourtney continues to inspire us as in April of this year, she launched a new lifestyle and wellness site, Poosh, with a stated mission to "educate, motivate, create, and curate a modern lifestyle, achievable by all."

You can find Kourtney on Instagram @kourtneykardash 

2. Talonted Lex

Lex of “Talonted Lex” is an inspirational beauty blogger and influencer from the U.K. creating consistent educational content about makeup and skincare for sensitive skin. She began her blog writing about her passion for nail art hence the name “Talonted Lex”. Lex now educates a lot about skincare for sensitive skin and rosacea, being a sufferer herself for 14 years. She is raising awareness about rosacea and provides practical tips and makeup tricks for those affected.

A skin positivity blogger living in London. I'm sharing rosacea tips, unusual and bright makeup, easy nail art, and skin positive stories.

Lex is an Oxy fan and was featured in the Refinery 29 article, These Makeup Products Work Wonders To Cover My Chronic Rosacea, stating, “I spend the most time perfecting my foundation base because once this step is done, I feel like everything else is a bonus.” 

“My current favourite foundation is the Oxygenetix Oxygenating Breathable Foundation, £45. It was designed to be used immediately after chemical peels and similar treatments, so it’s incredibly gentle on sensitive, reactive skin. It has an aloe vera base and not only gives natural coverage but helps to heal and soothe my skin.” Read the entire article HERE. 

To learn more about the Talonted Lex or for more tips on rosacea visit her website, talontedlex.co.uk. She can also be found on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.

3. Renée Lapino, L.E.

Renee Lapino, also known as the “London Skin Guru” is a Medical Facialist who has made quite the reputation for herself and her practice. Originally from New Orleans, Renee studied with some of the best plastic surgeons in Texas for 7 years then moved to London where she has been for 5 years now. Her expertise has been featured in publications such as Cosmopolitan, Tatler, and Vogue. She has a holistic approach to skincare mixed with leading medical technologies.

Renee uses Oxygenetix in her practice and wrote in an Instagram post, “You know by now that I am truly in love with Oxygenetix for not only myself but every single patient, follower, friend or general human that crosses my path. Makeup, skin serum and SPF 30 all in one product - how can you not be using this?”

“The Oxygenating Foundation addresses a wide range of skin problems, and can be applied immediately and directly to the skin post-facial treatment, and is so pure and beneficial that you can sleep in it. I often have!”

You can find Renee on her website http://reneelapino.com/. She can also be found on Instagram @reneelapino.

4. 💄S H A H N A Z I S L A M 💄

When Shahnaz got married she hired a makeup artist. Shahnaz explains, “It was the worst day of my life.” The makeup artist had her in tears as she was left appalled by her own appearance. She had to wash off all her makeup just moments before her wedding. This wedding disaster propelled her passion for makeup artistry with a desire to help other women avoid such a tragedy. 

Shahnaz is based out of London Essex and writes a popular skincare blog full of makeup tips, product reviews, and bridal advice. A self-proclaimed “Skincare Addict”, she has been a makeup artist for over 10 years and is consistently engaged on social media sharing everything makeup and skincare with her followers. 

When Shahnaz began using Oxygenetix she wrote a product review on her blog explaining her experience, “Ok so I have been using this foundation for over a week. My first impression was caught on my Insta story. You guys that follow me know that I was really impressed with how blendable, lightweight and amazing it looked on my skin. It sank into it so nicely like I wasn't wearing anything. When I touched my Face I couldn't feel any product and it didn't rub onto my finger. I tested out many ways of application. Wearing it under a Primer, applying Powder on top and even applying with Brushes and Beauty Blender. It works well with any form of Application.“ Read the rest of the article HERE.

Follow Shahnaz on Instagram for daily stories and product reviews @💄S H A H N A Z I S L A M 💄. You can find her blogs on her website www.shahnazislam.com.

5. Mandy Davis MUA

Mandy Davis is a Nashville makeup artist for weddings, engagement photoshoots, and special events. She also has a thriving Youtube and Instagram filled with makeup tutorials on all things makeup. Mandy has never seen makeup “as a way to mask someone’s face, but to enhance the beautiful features God gave them. It is an expression and art that can be done in so many forms, and to Mandy, it never gets old.” Learn more about Mandy on her website www.projectfacemakeup.com.

Mandy reviewed Oxygenetix on her Youtube vlog episode titled, “Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation | Clean AND Healing Ingredients??? Review and Demo” Watch the video below to hear the whole review!

I have yet another foundation review for you today, and this one is for the Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation which not only has clean ingredients but is also safe for post-procedural skin! Love y’all and hope you enjoy the video!

Connect with Mandy on Instagram @mandydavismua and Youtube Mandy Davis MUA.

6. Felicity Hayward

@felicityhayward looking stunning with her #Oxygenetix Foundation!

Felicity Hayward is a plus-size model, body-positive campaigner and founder of Self Love Brings Beauty, an online platform encouraging us all to embrace who we are. Her motto is, “There are no two humans on this planet that are the same, aspire to be the best version of yourself, not someone else". 

Felicity was recently quoted in Stylist magazine UK on why you should love your stretch marks. Hayward “first reacted with shame and embarrassment to her stretch marks. And yet, gradually, she’s realized that this so-called “flaw” is an integral part of who she is; an emblem to be held in affection, in a similar way to freckles, scars or any other distinctive features.”

With relentless courage to be herself and a passion to inspire others to do the same, she is an Oxygenetix fan we admire and adore!

Felicity can be found on Instagram @felicityhayward, and her website www.felicityhayward.com.

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The 3 Most Important Habits for Youthful Aging

From all corners of the world, we hear of ancient skincare tips spoken by generations past. Cosmetic aesthetics has advanced at an impressive speed that has increased our global community knowledge on our options for reversing or correcting poor skin health. 

Whether it be from busy lifestyles or sociality distractions, many believe, “we have nothing to worry about now, it’s only when we get older that we will need to start worrying about wrinkles and aging skin”. Although the technology is there to aid us when the time comes, the more we do now to prevent skin damage, the better we will look and feel in the future. It is essential to incorporate healthy skincare tips as early as we can to combat the harsh environments we live with today such as air pollution, the diets we keep and the lifestyles we choose. Follow the top 3 most important tips to care for your skin and slow down aging in its tracks.

1. Hydrate Inside & Out

Sufficient hydration keeps skin healthy and youthful. In order to maintain glowing skin that lasts, it is crucial to hydrate inside the body by drinking water, as well as moisturize the skin to protect from environmental factors.

Everyone knows the importance of drinking water for overall health and well-being, but it is also important for healthy, vibrant, and glowing skin. Water flushes toxins in the body and promotes circulation, delivering key nutrients to skin cells. 

According to H.H. Mitchell, Journal of Biological Chemistry 158, our skin is made up of about 64% water. This being said, to have healthy skin it is extremely important to intake sufficient amounts of water for your body type and environment. “Generally, an adult male needs about 3 liters (3.2 quarts) per day while an adult female needs about 2.2 liters (2.3 quarts) per day.” [1] The food we eat adds to the water content we ingest each day. As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to drink 8 glasses a day at least. 

Snazz up your drinking water with some cucumber and mint or put it in a cute water bottle you love. Whatever way you choose, make drinking water each day enjoyable for a healthy habit that will dramatically improve the way you look and feel.

Drinking water does wonders for the skin but without utilizing protective mositurizers environmental factors can reverse the benefits. Situations like dry weather, indoor heating, and sun damage dry out the skin’s outer layers. We recommend using Oxygenetix Hydro Matrix on your face daily to shield from damaging environments and lock in moisture. With water-loving ingredients like PCA and Hyaluronic Acid, Hydro Matrix attracts hydration and maintains moisture levels with a super binding gel matrix. 

2. Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Sun rays are extremely harmful to the skin and sun damage is one of the things that can make you look older the quickest. Signs of sun damage can be more apparent in lighter skin shades, but dangerous for all skin types. 

UVA and UVB rays from the sun penetrate the epidermis causing damage to skin cells. Over time, repeated sun exposure without protection can cause premature aging, wrinkles, dry skin, discoloration, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Wearing sunscreen every day is an important part of a skincare routine. For your face, wear noncomedogenic mineral sunscreen that won’t clog your pores or cause skin irritations. Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation heals and conceals skin with an SPF 30 for protection all day. Look flawless while caring for the future of your skin.

3. Invest in Quality Skincare Products

Our skin absorbs what we put on it, so every skincare product we use has the potential to change the way our skin looks and feels. Unfortunately, the current regulations on cosmetics fail to protect us from toxic ingredients. 

Become informed of the ingredients contained in products you use on your skin. Look for words like noncomedogenic (so your pores aren’t clogged) and hypoallergenic (meaning it has been tested relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction). 

Oxygenetix breathable and pro-healing topicals have been rigorously tested to be safe for even the most sensitive skin. Oxygenetix is recommended by top dermatologists and medical professionals around the globe for use post-procedure to heal and conceal sign of treatment. Oxygenetix has also taken Hollywood by storm, just recently winning Brand of the Year by the Daytime Beauty Awards 2019. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start taking care of yourself now and your skin will thank you for years to come. Shine on you beautiful human you!

Sources:

The Water in You: Water and the Human Body. USGS, 2019, https://www.usgs.gov/special-topic/water-science-school/science/water-you-water-and-human-body?qt-science_center_objects=0#qt-science_center_objects

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Oxygen For Healing Skin

Imagine what would happen if you placed a living plant inside a sealed container with no oxygen flowing in or out. The plant would not survive long term without the necessary oxygen it takes for any living organism to sustain vitality.  

Our skin is the largest organism of the human body and Oxygen plays a major role in the wound healing process and the dermal's overall health. 

Oxygen for Wound Healing

Oxygen breathes new life into our skin, renewing skin cells, stimulating collagen and elastin growth, and combating bacteria that can cause infection.

According to David E. Eisenbud, MD (2012), mountain climbers decades ago noted the inability to clear skin infections at high altitudes where the air is less dense and contains fewer oxygen molecules. Deep-sea divers, on the other hand, noted that their wounds healed fastest when they were diving and breathing increased amounts of oxygen. New scientific research emerged and now we know the importance of oxygen for wound healing. 

Oxygen is delivered to our skin cells primarily through the bloodstream. As we intake oxygen in our lungs it travels throughout our bodies and acts as an “energy source to fuel biochemical reactions and cellular function”. David E. Eisenbud, MD explains that oxygen is a nutrient essential to collagen production. Oxygen also generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) which work to combat wound colonization and infection. To summarize, Oxygen is a critical component of the healing process.

Oxygenetix 

When developing Oxygenetix, formulator Barry Knapp coined the name Ceravitae® for the Oxygenetix signature ingredient that promotes oxygen uptake to skin cells thus accelerating healing of skin conditions and wounds. Ceravitae® works synergistically with all-natural healing and anti-bacterial ingredients to protect the skin from infection and minimize healing time. This has made Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation and Oxygenating Hydro-Matrix favorites in medical offices around the globe. 

Oxygenetix topicals are also breathable, allowing oxygen from the air to flow freely onto the skin. As the skin is allowed to breathe, pores are minimized and cellular function is at it’s prime! 

Source

Oxygen in Wound Healing. David E. Eisenbud, MD, 2012. plasticsurgery.theclinics.com

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Ceravitae® - The Oxygenetix Hero Ingredient

Oxygenetix offers medical-grade camouflage and pro-healing topicals that can be applied immediately following most aesthetic procedures. So what makes Oxygenetix so ideal for healing? The secret lies within the Oxygenetix hero ingredient, Ceravitae®. 

The History

Barry Knapp, co-founder, and formulator of Oxygenetix built on the research of renowned American Inventor George Sperti who explored the cell proliferation-stimulating qualities of a live yeast cell derivative (saccharomyces cerevisiae). Oxygenetix formulators combined this biochemistry with strong background knowledge in makeup formulations to create unique medical grade topicals.

Yeast cells are similar in structure to human cells. They stimulate oxygen consumption in human tissue, combat irritation and act as a stimulant on other active ingredients. Knapp combined an isolated LYCD compound, which he branded Cera-V, with other pro-healing and hydrating ingredients to form a breathable foundation. He added anti-inflammatory aloe vera Barbadensis, silicone for scar healing, nine hyalurons and PCA for moisture retention, and a physical SPF 30 for UVA and UVB protection. 

How Does Ceravitae® Work?

Ceravitae® is the Oxygenetix patented hero ingredient, a potent derivative from Sacchramises Lysate, a yeast compound with pro-healing properties. Ceravitae® promotes oxygen uptake to skin cells which in turn accelerates tissue growth.

Oxygenetix Chief Chemist Dr. Schep explains, “Just as our lungs require oxygen to breathe, it is essential our skin cells get oxygen and Ceravitae® stimulates the uptake process.”

As our cells get renewed with oxygen, collagen and elastin cells grow. These fresh cells create younger-looking skin.

Using Oxygenetix Post-Procedure

Oxygenetix eliminates and/or minimizes patient downtime by camouflaging signs of a procedure while providing rapid cellular turnover thus accelerating the wound healing process. This has changed the name of the game for many medical professionals who dealt with push back when patients learned how long the healing process would take. Ceravitae® has been noted to provide up to 5 times the oxygen uptake than wearing nothing at all. With flawless coverage and powerful pro-healing ingredients such as Ceravitae®, Oxygenetix delivers quick results that heal and conceal.

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5 Top Travel Tips for Skin

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, often the health of our skin is thrown to the wayside. From drying recycled airplane air conditioning to adapting to changes in weather, our skin goes through a lot as we venture abroad. Use these 5 top tips to caring for your skin the next time you travel and come back feeling relaxed and looking renewed!

1. Hydrate Inside & Out

When we travel we are often exposed to harsh environments that dry out our skin. The air conditioning on airplanes can be especially drying. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, a clinical instructor in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City told Allure, “Typically, skin is comfortable when the humidity is between 40 to 70 percent. Most airplane cabins are at about 20 percent.”  This dip in humidity is harsh for our skin causing dryness, flaking, and sometimes redness. The artificial pressure in a plane is no picnic for the complexion either. 

Changes in weather can also dry out the skin. From increased exposure to the sun to rapid changes in climate, our skin can become depleted of moisture. To combat dry skin while traveling moisturize throughout the day. It is important to shield the skin from environmental stressors with a hydrating moisturizer such as Oxygenetix Hydro Matrix. Hydro Matrix replenishes moisture loss with a powerful combination of PCA and Hyaluronic Acid. These water-loving molecules maintain moisture levels while the Hydro Matrix pro-healing formula heals the skin. Oxygenetix patented Ceravitae® promotes rapid cellular turnover, healing signs of travel while on the go. 

Drink more water than usual while traveling to flush toxins accumulated from foreign foods and environments. This will not only prevent stomach upset but also skin issues such as breakouts. 

2. Bring a Travel Pillow

Travel pillows are great for sleeping comfortably while traveling, but also do wonders for protecting skin from contact with dirty surfaces. Instead of leaning up against bus windows and seats, utilize a travel pillow. Both your neck and face will thank you later! 

3. Hand Sanitize Often

Bring a travel-sized hand sanitizer with you wherever you go. Sanitize often to prevent bacteria from spreading to your face or making you sick. From touching handrails and door handles to shaking hands and looking at souvenirs, there are many places to make contact with unfriendly bacteria. Acne is created when the skin harbors bacteria, which can occur when we touch our faces with dirty hands. Avoid contact with your face and sanitize as you travel to prevent breakouts.

4. Bring Your Own Skincare Products

Hotels don’t always have high-quality products to use, especially when it comes to the face. Bring travel-sized toiletries of your essential skincare products when you travel. Make sure to include a gentle face wash, toner, and moisturizer in the mix. Switching skincare products can cause adverse reactions in the skin so fill up travel-sized bottles with products you already love and use daily. All Oxygenetix products are sized airplane friendly and make the perfect travel companions. Protect your skin and look flawless down the runway with your Hydro Matrix and Oxygenating Foundation.

5. Relax

Traveling can cause breakouts due to the stress hormones released during the hustle and bustle of a trip. Take time each day to relax. Bring your favorite essential oils with you to smell when you need an uplift. Listen to chill music in your headphones. Take a moment to breathe, feel grateful for your journey and meditate. Relaxing is one of the best ways to care for yourself and your skin.

Wherever your trip takes you, we bet if you take the time to take care of your skin you will look and feel your gorgeous self!

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The Truth About Ocean Water & Your Skin

Historically, ocean water has been known to cure diseases of both the body and the soul. It all began with English physicians in the late 16th-century who began endorsing the healing effects of cold ocean water to promote circulation, cure illness, and treat melancholy. [2] Today we still think fondly of the sea’s healing powers for relaxation and revival of our bodies and minds. Many report improvements in various skin conditions after a dip in the ocean. Although water from the sea has multiple benefits, there are also some risks that are important to be aware of. 

Let’s dive deeper into the skincare benefits and dangers of the deep blue sea and how you can stay protected.

Ocean Water Benefits 

Have you ever noticed how soft your skin is after a quick dive in the ocean? Or perhaps you have had an acne flare-up dissipate after a swim in the sea. Ocean water has a rich mineral content containing nutrients that our skin needs including magnesium, potassium, calcium, selenium, sodium, and sulfur. The Magnesium in this mineral cocktail has been found to be especially beneficial for dry skin. Those with eczema and psoriasis have reported excellent improvements from water rich in magnesium, such as dead sea salts. [3] 

Additionally, salt is antibacterial and antimicrobial, so swimming in saltwater can help ward off acne-causing bacteria. Skin professionals have long known about the benefits of salt for the skin. Salt Facials are becoming increasingly popular for combating aging and problematic skin. Salt Facials are praised for being safe for all skin types and Fitzpatricks while providing deep exfoliation and healing. 

Ocean Water Dangers

Although ocean water is full of skin beneficial minerals, it also harbors some dangers. As we continue to pollute our oceans with city runoff and wastewater, the sandy beaches we enjoy are becoming more and more toxic. 

A recent study conducted by UC Irvine found that “ocean water exposure can alter the diversity and composition of the human skin microbiome," said Marisa Chattman Nielsen, MS, a PhD student and lead author on the study. Recent studies have demonstrated that changes in the microbiome can cause susceptibility to infection and disease. [1]  Exposure to these waters can cause gastrointestinal and respiratory illness, ear infections, and skin infections.

Nielsen continues, “While swimming normal resident bacteria were washed off while ocean bacteria were deposited onto the skin." The skin is the body’s first line of defense, so when normal bacteria is taken over by foreign bodies of bacteria, fighting off infection becomes more difficult. [1]

Protect Yourself

By all means, continue to enjoy the wonders of the ocean, but keep yourself safe by taking some precautions. To stay protected from ocean bacteria, avoid swimming with open wounds. Take advantage of the showers found at many public beaches and rinse off ocean water as soon as you can. Become aware of the quality of water at the beach you go to and stay informed of any changes. 

The most common way we get premature skin damage is due to sun exposure. Always protect your skin with sunscreen and remember to reapply when needed. Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation & Acne Control Foundation with SPF 30 protect the skin all day until washed off. With a 90 minute water-resistant formula, enjoy a dip in the pool or a swim in the ocean without worry. Unlike most sunscreens that clog pores, Oxygenetix topicals are non-comedogenic and pro-healing, allowing the skin to function properly and protect you from environmental stressors. 

Thank you for reading! May your joy be as deep as the ocean, and your sorrows as light as it’s foam.

Sources:

1. Ocean swimming alters skin microbiome, increasing vulnerability to infection. Eureka. American Society of Microbiology, 2019. https://www.asm.org/Press-Releases/2019/June/Ocean-Swimming-Alters-Skin-Microbiome,-Increasing

2. The Historic Healing Power of the Beach. The Atlantic, 2013. https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2013/08/the-historic-healing-power-of-the-beach/279175/

3. What are the Health Benefits of Swimming in Sea Water. Livestrong, 2019.  https://www.livestrong.com/article/400377-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-swimming-in-sea-water/

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Why Drinking Water Doesn’t Hydrate Dry Skin

Dry skin is a common concern patients bring to their Dermatologists and other skin professionals alike. We tend to believe the familiar myth that drinking enough water will keep the body as well as the skin sufficiently hydrated. However, this issue is merely skin deep. 

Causes of Dry Skin

Our skin is mostly impacted by external factors. Skin keeps our bodies safe from environmental factors, such as weather conditions. Our skin needs protection in certain weather conditions. For instance, low humidity, cold air, and dry winds can make the skin look and feel dry. Products like cleaning agents, perfumes, and chemicals in swimming pools are all dry skin contributors. Additionally, many body soaps and body washes strip the skin’s natural oils and consequently lead to dry skin and in some cases skin irritation.

Sebum is the bodies natural oils produced by our sebaceous glands to moisturize the skin. Sebum is what determines the moisture level measured within our skin. An excess of sebum causes oily skin, while not enough leads to dry skin. 

These external factors dry out the skin by affecting the top layer, or the stratum corneum. “In general, anything that causes loss of water and reduces barrier function of the stratum corneum can lead to the feeling of dry skin,” says UAMS dermatologist Dr. Pellowski.

The Water Myth

Oxygenetix Advisory Board Member Dr. Stefanie Williams explains, “it’s a myth that drinking lots of water will improve skin hydration and gets rid of dry skin. The main problem in dry skin is not that you don’t drink enough water, but that you lose too much water via invisible evaporation from the skin. Think of it like trying to fill a bucket of water that has a huge hole at the bottom. You need to fix the leak first!”

In order to fix the “leak” in our skin’s barrier function, we can take the necessary precautions to protect our skin.

The Solution for Dry Skin

Protecting the top layer of the skin is vital to maintaining moisture levels. This can be done by avoiding environmental irritants whenever possible and by using quality skincare products. 

Avoid excess bathing and swimming and be sure to clean chlorine off quickly after going to the pool. Avoid direct contact with chemicals in cleaning products, detergents, and soaps. Use gloves when doing dishes and when cleaning your home. Wear protective clothing when in contact with drying weather conditions.

Protecting the skin every day with moisturizers will dramatically increase moisture levels. For the face use moisturizers like Oxygenetix Hydro Matrix which are non-comedogenic and safe for the face. Hydro Matrix acts as a protective shield for moisture with powerful ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium PCA, allowing the skin to function optimally while preventing moisture loss. Hyaluronic Acid improves skin texture and restores suppleness. Known as nature’s moisturizer, these water-loving molecules replenish lost moisture. Sodium PCA is also known for binding moisture to skin cells. 

While it’s important to stay hydrated, drinking water is not the answer for healthy moisturized skin. Choose quality products, take care of your skin and it will return the favor and take care of you! 

Sources:

1. Can drinking water cure dry skin ?UAMS, 2019. https://uamshealth.com/healthlibrary2/medicalmyths/candrinkingwatercuredryskin/

2. Why does drinking more water not improve dry skin? EUDELO, 2019. https://eudelo.com/2017/08/25/drinking-water-not-improve-dry-skin/

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Interview with DermaSweep: Life Unfiltered Can Be Beautiful

The health of your skin is the first thing you see when you look into the mirror and the first thing you notice when you engage face to face with others. Both men and women are seeking ways to correct their skin imperfections whether it be from sun damage, scarring, sagging skin, large pore reduction, and more. Luckily for us in this modern era of aesthetics, skin-resurfacing solutions such as microdermabrasion, laser resurfacing, and micro-needling offer a multitude of benefits to restore skin health and vibrancy. 

The aesthetics community offers a plethora of skin-resurfacing options and we oftentimes find ourselves overwhelmed with so many choices. It’s important to choose a system that has proven credibility amongst the medical technicians and patients along with successful results. 

DermaSweep is one of the leading skin-resurfacing systems making headway the marketplace. We recently sat down with DermaSweep trainer and territory manager, Laura Hunnewell, LE, to learn more about this innovative technology.

What sets DermaSweep apart from other skin-resurfacing systems?

“DermaSweep is different in that the tips that we use are a nylon bristle brush. Nylon bristles are tolerated better by the skin than a plastic or diamond tip that may be more abrasive. When someone has more sensitive skin or mild rosacea we can actually do the treatment without an issue. 

DermaSweep claims to be the only resurfacing device of its kind on the market to be able to safely treat the eye area. Laura explains, “We can reduce the suction and go around the eye area without it causing any kind of streaking or damage.”

What does the DermaSweep treatment look like?

“We start off with a cleansing of the skin to prepare it for the treatment. The first step is a dry sweeping done with the suction and nylon bristle tip. Depending on your skin type we would use a black tip for sensitive skin, green tip for medium skin, yellow for coarse, and red for super coarse. So we can choose how aggressive we want to be with the skincare treatment.”

DermaSweep treatments are customized for each individual with paraben-free infusions that target specific skincare concerns with cutting edge ingredients such as Growth Factors, Peptides, Vitamin C, TCA, and Hyaluronic Acid for optimal skin rejuvenation.

“When we deliver the infusion portion we are pushing the serum into the skin  with a silk fiber tip which is soft and feels very good.”

What does your post-procedure protocol look like?

“You need more protection from the elements since we are removing the stratum corneum and then rebuilding your barrier, so it’s important to follow the steps for good post-care.

Because we don’t have our own skincare brand we are always looking at incorporating other brands into the treatments. Myself being an esthetician I have a lot of products to choose from but I typically like something that has some Hyaluronic acid or a light moisturizer.

I love putting Oxygenetix Hydro Matrix on after a treatment because it has an aloe base. Aloe is a humectant so it helps to bind moisture to the skin. By doing that we are calming down the skin and binding the moisture. A simple sunscreen is fine, but I really like using Oxygenetix moisturizer than applying the Foundation with SPF 30 on top. Sometimes I do a little eye cream around the eye too.”

How long does it take to see results?

“Results are immediate. I usually see a result immediately in most people. Someone who’s a little bit more sensitive might hold on to a little bit of a pink or sunburned look but it dissipates quickly. 

The results last for days. People will wake up the next morning and sometimes I’ll get a text saying, ‘Wow, my skin really looks amazing today’. Doing DermaSweep regularly you will see a difference in your tone, texture, or just overall balance. If you have an issue like breakouts and blackheads it really helps clear the pores.”

How often can someone have a DermaSweep treatment?

“You can get it done every two weeks to correct a problem. We usually recommend once a month for maintenance, unless they have a specific issue to correct or repair.”

What is the number one benefit from a DermaSweep procedure?

“The DermaSweep gives a great overall boost for skin health. It’s like a fitness routine for your face. With DermaSweep you’re keeping your skin healthy and happy by balancing your skin. It really evens the tone out.”

Where can someone find a DermaSweep near them?

“On our website, DermaSweep.com, you can look to see where the providers are in your area.”

To learn more about the revolutionary DermaSweep system visit DermaSweep.com. 

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The Aesthetic Show 2019 Highlights

Exceeding over 1,500 attendees comprised of aesthetic industry leaders and devotees to the art and science of beauty, The Aesthetic Show is known as the most important and influential event for aesthetic physicians. The luxurious Wynn Las Vegas was fully booked July 11th-14th as plastic surgeons, cosmetic dermatologists, and other beauty professionals met to further their education, share groundbreaking innovations, and connect with others in their ever-expanding industry. Here are some highlights from the 2019 show.

Oxygenetix Sponsor

Oxygenetix has been a proud exhibitor and sponsor at The Aesthetic Show for the past 8 years. As the only medical-grade topical for post-procedure application, Oxygenetix has gained much popularity and is well regarded and respected in the aesthetic community. Attendees were eager to visit the Oxygenetix booth to learn about the revolutionary Oxygenating Foundation and how Oxygenetix can benefit their practice. 

New Scientific Advisory Board

This year The Aesthetic Show introduced a new Scientific Advisory Board, led by top experts and key opinion leaders, including Oxygenetix Advisory Board Members Michael Gold, M.D., and Andrew Ordon, M.D., F.A.C.S who has been a Scientific Chairman of The Aesthetic Show for 8 years. These accomplished professionals taught attendees a variety of topics including various surgical and non-surgical innovations, as well as financial and best business practices. These Ivy League educators and pioneers in the field of aesthetic medicine helped attendees hone their skills and develop new ideas and services for their patients.

Hot Topics for 2019

Generational Aesthetics

“The new reality is that beauty is in the eye of the generational beholder.” -The Aesthetic Show

As the running theme for the entire program and the topic of the Keynote Address, Generational Aesthetics was a hot topic at The Aesthetic Show this year. As the age of the selfie and social media has driven the aesthetic industry in a younger direction, the market is no longer dominated by middle-aged and older patients. Younger patients desire to tweak their looks more than ever before and are investing in preventing visible aging. With this industry shift taking place The Aesthetic Show focused on the multi-generational aspect of aesthetic medicine. Attendees listened to a panel led by Andrew Ordon, MD, about best practices for meeting the demands and desires of today’s baby boomers, Millenials, Gen X-ers and the upcoming Generation Z.

Regenerative Aesthetics

Gregory Chernoff, MD, from Beverly Hills, California, stated that 20 years ago cellular medicine was considered science fiction. “Today, the entire field of medicine is interested in it.”

Regenerative Aesthetics utilize the patient’s own tissue, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), stem cells, growth factors, peptides, and other bio cellular-based resources extracted from blood and tissue. More people today desire natural anti-aging remedies instead of chemicals and substances foreign to their bodies, creating the market needed for the regenerative movement.

The Aesthetic Show Award Ceremony

Professionals from all over the industry came together to celebrate achievements of excellence and innovation. Hosted by plastic surgeon Andrew Ordon, M.D., The Aesthetic Awards honored the influencers and innovators driving medical aesthetics forward. Winners received recognition during The Aesthetic Show's electric Saturday Evening Social event. 

The 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Carl Thornfeldt, clinical dermatologist and founder of the Epionce skin care line. Dr. Carl’s high standards for clinical studies on all his products have set the bar in the physician-strength market. 

The Aesthetic Show was a phenomenal success! We look forward to future shows and collaborations as the booming aesthetic industry continues to thrive and progress. 

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Advancements in the Modern Facelift

The classic facelift has remained one of the top procedures performed in the U.S. with 121,531 procedures in 2018 alone.[1] We are all familiar with the “windblown” look associated with a sub-par facelift procedure. Luckily many advancements have been made in the world of plastic surgery, and surgeons have aced the ideal natural aesthetic desired by most.

What is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is beneficial for combating the signs of aging in the face and neck. As we age the pulls of gravity, sun exposure, smoking, thinning of the skin, loss of facial fat, stress, and hereditary factors can cause skin, muscle, and fat in the face to sag. People who have problems with unwanted wrinkles, jowls and sagging skin often opt to have this procedure to help achieve a more youthful, natural look. [2]

Oxygenetix Medical Advisory Board Member, Mr. Christopher Inglefield, describes a facelift procedure performed at his clinic in London, “In this procedure, our plastic surgeon uses masterful techniques to reposition the skin, fat, and muscles of your face to combat sagging and restore you to a more youthful and natural appearance.”

Facelifts in the Past

Back in the day, facelift procedures worked by wrapping the skin tightly around the muscles and features of the face. The ideal methods for achieving natural-looking results had not yet been discovered so it often resulted in a fake, skin taut look. 

The noticeably unnatural “windblown” look from facelifts of the past has caused many to have reservations about getting the procedure. Luckily many advancements have been made to achieve the natural results desired.

Advancements in Modern Facelifts

Oxygenetix Medical Advisory Board Member, Dr. Ordon has made great strides in Facelifts at his clinic Ordon Chopra in Beverly Hills, California. He explains, “Now, the face can be lifted nearly vertically. This approach is ideal because aging and gravity pull the skin of the face downward, creating noticeable sagging, wrinkles, and folds. The goal is to repair and restore what gravity and time took away. This results in a more rested and youthful look.“

Dr. Ordon adds, “The secret to a great facelift is a combination of several recent advances in the approaches and techniques used in other popular surgical procedures.”

For the facelifts performed at Ordon Chopra, they combine facelifts with the best components of other surgical techniques. They use liposuction techniques such as Tumescent to separate the tissues with minimal trauma to the cells and to make the draining of fat from the body a much easier and quicker process.

"Many surgical and minimally invasive procedures are performed in conjunction with each other," said Alan Matarasso, MD, president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. "For example, a facelift procedure is often complemented with injections of soft-tissue fillers. When these procedures are combined it not only provides optimal results, but it can be more economical for patients."

Facelift Recovery

Today a facelift can be performed with fewer and smaller incisions and a lower impact on the patient’s body, which results in a faster healing period. At Dr. Ordon’s clinic, “often, tissue glue is used instead of, or in addition to, sutures as a way to provide enhanced reinforcement during the healing period to ensure that the wound does not re-open or cause any complications. The glue also allows the patient to be bandage free and return to an active life sooner.” Healing occurs must quicker than it used to with these advancements and patients can return back to work within a week as opposed to the two to three weeks it used to take. 

Oxygenetix pro-healing topicals can be found at Dr. Ordon’s clinic in Beverly Hills and in clinics around the globe as post-procedure protocol. With doctor recommendation, Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation can be applied to the skin after the procedure to aid in the healing process while covering up undesired redness, bruising, and signs of the procedure. Patented Ceravitae® in Oxygenetix topicals supports oxygen uptake to the skin cells to aid in the healing process while aloe barbadensis soothes the compromised skin. 

Aging is inevitable, but looking your age doesn’t have to be. With advancements in facelifts, it is now possible to get the natural youthful look you desire. Find a board-certified plastic surgeon near you on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website. 

Sources:

1. Americans Spent More than $16.5 Billion on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery in 2018. American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 2019.   https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/americans-spent-more-than-16-billion-on-cosmetic-plastic-surgery-in-2018

2. Facelift. Ordon Chopra, 2019. https://www.ordonchopra.com/procedures/face/facelift/

3. Restoring a Youthful Appearance with a Facelift. London Bridge Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Clinic, 2016. https://www.lbps.co.uk/general/restoring-a-youthful-appearance-with-a-facelift/

4. What is a facelift? American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 2019. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/facelift

5. Your facelift recovery explained from Day 1 to Day 30. American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 2018. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/your-facelift-recovery-explained-from-day-1-to-day-30

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Hydro Matrix as Foundation Primer

Your face is the canvas and you are the artist. Makeup is the modality through which your creativity flows as you prepare to take on the world each day. You begin with a flawless foundation, the first layer that precedes all the rest. But even before your foundation application, there is a crucial step that is often overlooked, the primer.

What is Makeup Primer?

Makeup primer is applied topically before foundation, eye shadow, and lip applications as a base. Just as you would use a primer before painting a house, makeup primer prepares the skin for the rest of your makeup. It is important to use a primer that also has skincare benefits. Primer is at the front lines, getting absorbed into the skin first. 

Hydro Matrix as Foundation Primer

Oxygenetix topicals are all excellent at healing and soothing compromised skin and are even better when paired together. Use Oxygenating Hydro Matrix as the primer for Oxygenating and Acne Control Foundations. Hydro Matrix does the following to prepare the skin for foundation:

Hydro Matrix plumps the skin with powerful humectants

Hyaluronic Acid improves skin texture and restores suppleness

Sodium PCA binds moisture to the skin cells

Hydro Matrix allows the skin to breathe preventing clogged pores 

Hydro Matrix promotes wound healing by accelerating oxygen uptake to the skin cells with patented Ceravitae®

Hydro Matrix cools and soothes the skin with Aloe Barbadensis

Hydro Matrix creates a smooth palette for a flawless foundation application

Choose Your Finish

Matte

For a matte finish allow Hydro Matrix to absorb into the skin completely before applying your Oxygenetix Foundation. Dab the foundation into the skin and wait 60 seconds between layers for a flawless application.

Dewy

To achieve a dewy look for glowing skin, apply your Oxygenetix Foundation immediately after applying Hydro Matrix. 

Light Coverage

Mixing Hydro Matrix with your Foundation is a great way to glow with lighter coverage. 

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Heal & Conceal

Used by medical professionals around the globe and worn by consumers as an everyday foundation, Oxygenetix is the first of it's kind with topicals that heal and conceal. Start with Oxygenating Hydro Matrix as powerful hydration to plump and prep the skin, and top it off with either Oxygenating Foundation or Acne Control Foundation to keep skin in optimal repair while looking flawless. 

How it All Began

The idea to heal and conceal compromised skin began when creator and co-founder Barry Knapp witnessed the aftermath of his mother’s chemical peel procedure. Her grandaughters could barely look at her, frightened by her compromised skin. Barry envisioned a solution and started creating the formula for a product that can minimize post-procedure downtime while healing the skin.

Oxygenetix was originally formulated for the medical space with a heavy emphasis on Plastic Surgeons and Dermatologists. First created as an oxygen-enriched, protective foundation to minimize patients’ scarring, discomfort and social downtime following procedures, Hollywood makeup artists also discovered that one application of the foundation could last all day and night, even when shooting under harsh studio lights. Not only is Oxygenetix Breathable Foundation used professionally, but many consumers have also adopted it into their daily cosmetic regimen as it doesn’t damage the skin like other products do. 

Heal

Oxygenetix topicals are designed to heal an array of skin challenges while providing flawless camouflage. 

Oxygenating Hydro Matrix is more than just a superb moisturizer. Hydro Matrix is packed with pro-healing powerful ingredients that accelerate wound healing while replenishing moisture loss back into the skin. Aloe Barbadensis soothes the skin on contact making it great post-procedure when the skin is inflamed. Hydro Matrix plumps the skin, preparing it for a foundation application. 

Oxygenating Foundation is used globally by medical professionals as post-procedure protocol. Safe to use directly after most treatments, Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation is known for its ability to accelerate wound healing while covering up signs of the procedure. 

Oxygenating Acne Control Foundation has all the pro-healing benefits of Oxygenating Foundation with added 2% Salicylic Acid to combat acne throughout the day. Although not recommended to apply on post-procedural skin, Oxygenating Acne Control Foundation is ideal for acne, rosacea, and aging skin.

Along with providing flawless coverage and hydration, Oxygenetix topicals are enforced with patented Ceravitae® complex, a supercharged oxygenating ingredient which reproduces new skin cells and boosts collagen production and connective tissue growth. Ceravitae® is a derivative from Sacchromisate Lysae, a yeast extract that accelerates healing by promoting oxygen uptake to the skin cells via osmosis. As skin cells turnover at a more rapid rate, the skin heals faster and maintains a youthful appearance.

In addition, all Oxygenetix topicals use noncomedogenic ingredients that allow the skin to breathe. Oxygen is a vital component for wound healing. When the skin is able to breathe Oxygen flows easily through skin cells, providing optimal functionality. When pores are clogged, the skin’s sebum production is affected, creating all sorts of problems. With Oxygenetix, sebum production acts naturally, creating soft and supple glowing skin.

Conceal

Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation and Acne Control Foundation stay breathable while camouflaging the skin. These revolutionary foundations act as a second skin, concealing redness, blemishes, bruises, and signs of procedure with ease. Once the foundation has set it feels as if you aren’t wearing any makeup at all. 

With buildable layers, Oxygenating Foundation and Acne Control Foundation have the ability to provide the desired coverage. Simply wait 30 seconds in between layers for best results. 

Both Oxygenating Foundation and Acne Control Foundation provide SPF 30, protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. Wearing an SPF daily is important in preventing sun damage, but also when recovering from a procedure or skin condition. Transfer resistant and water resistant up to 90 minutes, Oxygenetix has you covered throughout your daily activities. 

In Conclusion

The Heal and Conceal revolution is here. No longer do we have to worry about the adverse effects our makeup has on our skin. The best thing about Oxygenetix breathable topicals is that with continued use, the skin improves over time, so the longer you wear it, the better your skin will look and feel! 

Thank you for reading our blog today.

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Steaming Your Face: Tips & Tricks

Facial steaming is standard protocol for most skin care professionals performing facial treatments and is a great one to adopt into your skincare regimen! This relaxing technique holds many benefits for cleansing and refreshing the skin, and you can easily do it from the comfort of your own home.

Benefits

Clean Out Pores

Steaming is especially beneficial for acne-prone skin, as the heat loosens dirt and debris from clogged pores. As the pores open up, they are more easily cleaned out.

Improve Product Absorption

Open pores also absorb beneficial ingredients in products more easily, ensuring you are getting the most out of those high-end skincare products you’ve invested in. 

Improves Circulation

Facial steaming also promotes blood circulation, which can improve skin healing time and overall health.

Warnings

Steaming is great for skin types that can handle it. However, those with sensitive skin or rosacea should look to other methods of skincare. Rachel Nazarian told Marie Claire, “The heat that you're exposing your skin to causes dilation of blood vessels—leading to flushing, increased inflammation, and worsening of conditions like rosacea.” 

Facial steaming should be performed once a week AT MOST. There are varied opinions from professionals, but the common consensus is that steaming too often can create dry skin as natural oils that moisturize the skin are stripped away. 

Steaming at the Spa

Estheticians and Dermatologists often use a steamer during facial treatments. Facial steaming is very relaxing, adding to the magic of a spa experience. Steaming also opens the pores and loosens up clogs, assisting in the extraction process. Additionally, masks and topicals are readily absorbed, offering maximum benefits.

Steaming at Home

Follow these simple steps to steam your face at home:

1. Clean your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser. This will ensure you get the most out of your facial treatment. 

2. Heat water up on the stove or in a teapot to the point of steaming. Be careful not to splash as you pour the hot water into a large bowl.

3. Hover over the steaming water with a clean towel to trap the steam. Stay at a comfortable distance to avoid overheating. Don’t steam for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. 

4. Once your face is freshly steamed is a great time to use an exfoliant or face mask. 

5. Gently dab toner all over your face, focusing on problem areas. 

6. Apply a moisturizer like Oxygenating Hydro Matrix to replenish moisture loss back into the skin. It is crucial you use products that are non-comedogenic and safe for your skin as your face will be more sensitive to ingredients. 

Happy Steaming!

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What Fitzpatrick Skin Type Are You?

The Fitzpatrick Scale is the most widely accepted skin typing method used today. This rating system measures the amount of pigment in the skin and the tolerance to the sun.[2] Founded in 1975 by Thomas B. Fitzpatrick, the Fitzpatrick scale is used in Dermatology and the Cosmetic Industry. The FDA has even adopted this classification for evaluating the SPF values of sunscreens. [1]

Cosmetic professionals use the Fitzpatrick scale to accurately produce products for all skin types. Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation and Acne Control Foundation come in 14 shades spread evenly across the Fitzpatrick Scale’s 6 classifications to cater to our global market. 

There are two main factors that influence skin type; genetic disposition and reaction to sun exposure and tanning beds. [1] Take Fitzpatrick’s quiz used by Dermatologists below to find out what your Fitzpatrick Skin Type is.

Fitzpatrick Scale Quiz

Instructions: Each answer has a numerical value next to it. Choose one answer to each question and add up the numbers associated with your responses. Scoring is available at the end of the quiz. 

What color are your eyes?

0 - Light blue, gray, green

1- Blue, gray, or green

2 - Blue

3 - Dark Brown

4 - Brownish Black

What is the natural color of your hair?

0 - Sandy red

1 - Blonde

2 - Chestnut/ Dark Blonde

3 - Dark brown

4 - Black

What color is your skin (unexposed areas)?

0 - Reddish

1 - Very Pale

2 - Pale with a beige tint

3 - Light brown

4 - Dark brown

Do you have freckles on unexposed areas?

0 - Many

1 - Several

2 - Few

3 - Incidental 

4 - None

What happens when you stay too long in the sun?

0 - Painful redness, blistering, peeling

1 - Blistering followed by peeling

2 - Burns sometimes followed by peeling

3 - Rare burns

4 - Never had burns

To what degree do you turn brown?

0 - Hardly or not at all

1 - Light color tan

2 - Reasonable tan

3 - Tan very easily

4 - Turn dark brown quickly

Do you turn brown with several hours of sun exposure?

0 - Never 

1 - Seldom

2 - Sometimes

3 - Often

4 - Always

How does your face react to the sun?

0 - Very sensitive

1 - Sensitive

2 - Normal

3 - Very resistant

4 - Never had a problem

When did you last expose your body to the sun (or artificial sunlamp/tanning cream)?

1 - More than 3 months ago

2 - 2-3 months ago

3 - 12 months ago

4 - Less than a month ago

5 - Less than 2 weeks ago

Do you expose your face to the sun? (for the purpose of this quiz we have changed this question from the original: Did you expose the area to be treated to the sun?)

1 - Never

2 - Hardly ever

3 - Sometimes

4 - Often

5 - Always

Total up your points and match your score below to find your skin type. 

Fitzpatrick Scale Quiz Score

0-7 = Type I

8-16 = Type II

17-25 = Type III

25-30 = Type IV

Over 30 = Type V-VI 

Common Characteristics of Fitzpatrick Skin Types

Type I - White skin color, blonde hair, and green eyes, always burns in the sun, has freckles. Common ethnic background: English, Scottish.

Type II - White skin color, blonde hair, and green/blue eyes, always burns, has freckles and is difficult to tan. Common ethnic background: Northern European.

Type III - White skin color, blonde/ brown hair, blue/brown eyes, tans after several burns, and may freckle. Common ethnic background: German.

Type IV - Brown skin color, brown hair, and brown eyes, tans more than average, rarely burns, and rarely freckles. Common ethnic background: Mediterranean, Southern European, Hispanic.

Type V - Dark brown skin color, brown/black hair with brown eyes. Tans with ease, rarely burns, and no freckles. Common ethnic background: Asian, Indian, some African

Type VI - Black skin color, black hair, and brown/black eyes. Tans, never burns, deeply pigmented, and never freckles. Common ethnic background: African.

Oxygenetix Fitzpatrick Shades

Oxygenetix Foundations come in 7 blue based and 7 yellow based shades along the Fitzpatrick scale. See below for shades in your Fitzpatrick type.

Blue Based Shades

Type I - Pearl

Type II - Ivory

Type III - Taupe

Type IV - Walnut/ Coco

Type V - Ebony

Type VI - Mahogany

Yellow Based Shades

Type I - Opal

Type II - Creme

Type III - Beige

Type IV - Almond/ Honey

Type V - Tawny/Chakra

Benefits of Knowing Your Fitzpatrick

By assessing Fitzpatrick skin type medical professionals are able to determine what treatments are best as well as what to be cautious of. Now that you know what Fitzpatrick Skin Type you have, you can more accurately predict your response to different cosmetic procedures and treatments. Skin types IV-VI run a higher risk for pigmentary change with treatments such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, and topical bleaching agents. 

Knowing your Fitzpatrick is also important in evaluating your risk for skin cancer. Melanin in the skin absorbs and scatters energy from UV light to protect skin cells from damage. [2] Skin types with less pigmentation have less melanin and therefore less protection against harmful sun rays. Type I - III have the highest risk of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers and sun damage.

No matter what skin type you have, you are beautiful! Thank you for reading our blog today.

Sources:

1. Fitzpatrick skin typing: Applications in dermatology. Silonie Sachdeva, 2008. http://www.bioline.org.br/pdf?dv09029

2. Milady Standard Advanced Esthetics, 2013.

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Are You Allergic to Your Makeup?

“Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick-ass red lipstick.” -Gwyneth Paltrow.

“I love the confidence that makeup gives me.” - Tyra Banks.

It could be stated that a common thread between women is wrapped up in the age-old saying, “Makeup is a girl's best friend.” We turn to makeup to enhance our beauty day in and day out, but what happens when our makeup suddenly turns on us? 

Not all cosmetics are made equal. Some ingredients can cause skin irritation and in severe cases, allergic reactions. Continue reading to find out if you are allergic to your makeup and what you can do about it.

Cosmetic Allergy Symptoms

Cosmetic allergies should not be confused with other skin conditions that may cause dry, flaky skin or acne flare-ups. Although skin conditions may worsen with exposure to chemicals in cosmetics, there are certain symptoms that differentiate an irritation from an allergy.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms you may be suffering from an allergic reaction to a cosmetic or skin care product you are currently using:

hives

redness

rash without clearly defined edges

itchiness

inflamed skin

small blisters in some cases [4]

Symptoms at first will affect only the areas that came in direct contact with the cosmetic product but sometimes also later appear in other parts of the body as well. [1] Common places cosmetic allergy symptoms show up are the hands and fingers, the face, and the neck. The eyelids and lips are especially vulnerable as the skin are more delicate in these areas. [2]

How severe the allergy will depend on how long the cosmetic was on the skin and the genetic disposition of the person affected. Some skin types are more sensitive and prone to allergic reaction than others. 

It is also important to note that sometimes it isn’t until long exposure to an allergen that reactions appear. Kathleen Dass adds, “One of the most important things to know about contact dermatitis, which also makes it the most challenging, is that the reaction does not always appear right away. Sometimes, you can be using the products for weeks, months or even years before you start having symptoms.” [2]

How to Treat a Cosmetic Allergy

1. Play Detective 

First of all, it is important to figure out what product is causing an allergic reaction. Symptoms of contact dermatitis should clear up quickly once there is no more exposure. Play detective by performing patch tests on your inner arm with small amounts of product from suspected cosmetics and leave it there for 24 to 48 hours.[1]

2. Antihistamines

Antihistamines can be taken before contact with a known allergen as a preventative as well as to alleviate symptoms during a reaction. Antihistamines reduce the swelling, redness, and itchiness of rashes and hives on the face. They can also help with symptoms, such as watering eyes, stuffy nose, and breathing difficulty. [4]

3. Over the Counter Creams & Ointments

Vanessa Ngan of DermNet states that there are over-the-counter mild topical steroids such as hydrocortisone cream and ointments that help mediate allergy symptoms such as itchiness, redness, and swelling.[3] Using a cold compress in conjunction with a topical to reduce swelling and soothe the area.

4. See a Doctor for Severe Reactions

Seek medical attention if problems persist or if the allergic reaction is severe.

More severe allergic reactions are tight, painful, and are often filled with pus-like substance. In this case, the reaction is most likely a bacterial infection, requiring immediate medical attention and a prescription for a steroid cream and/or antibiotic.

“Speak to a doctor for severe, worsening, or recurring allergies. A very severe reaction could be a sign of anaphylaxis, which requires emergency medical attention,” adds Medical News Today.[4]

How to Prevent Cosmetic Allergies

Avoid ingredients in cosmetics and skincare products that are irritating to your skin. Look for labels such as “hypoallergenic”, “sensitivity tested”, “paraben-free”, “phthalate-free”, “non-comedogenic” and “fragrance-free”. Read our article about why ‘Fragrance-Free is the Way to Be’ to learn more about harmful fragrances in cosmetics and how to avoid them. 

When introducing a new product into your skincare or makeup routine, perform a patch test on your inner arm before applying to your entire face. Wash your hands thoroughly, or avoid contact with your fingers to avoid spreading a potential allergen. 

Be confident in knowing your Oxygenetix breathable topicals are hypo-allergenic, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist approved for even the most sensitive skin. Oxygenetix products are Aloe Vera Barbadensis based, omitting the need for bases that require preservatives which irritate sensitive skin. If you are suffering from an allergic reaction to a cosmetic, the patented Ceravitae® in Oxygenetix will speed up the healing process while the buildable Oxygenating Foundation will cover up any redness you may be experiencing. The skin’s healing process is optimized with Oxygenetix award-winning breathable technology, quickly getting you back to feeling and looking your best!

Thank you for reading our blog today.

Sources

1. Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Overview. NCBI, 2017. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK447113/

2. Can You Be Allergic to Makeup? We asked the experts. Dermstore, 2019. https://www.dermstore.com/blog/allergic-to-makeup/

3. Contact Reactions to Cosmetics. Dermnet MZ, 2012. https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/contact-reactions-to-cosmetics/

4. How to Get Rid of an Allergic Reaction on Your face. Stephen Gill, Medical News Today, 2018. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321376.php

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How To Pop Pimples Properly

When dealing with acne prone skin, it can be very challenging to resist popping pimples throughout the day. What may be very satisfying at the time, can actually make matters worse if not done properly. 

Continue reading to learn why dermatologists do it best, and practical tips for popping pimples at home.

Dermatologists Do it Best

Dermatologists recommend letting the experts pop pimples for you. This is due to a variety of issues that may be caused by popping pimples on your own. First of all, the bacteria on your hands can get into your pores, exacerbating pimple growth even further. Furthermore, without using the correct technique when squeezing comedones out, the contents of the pimple can be pushed farther into the skin causing a deeper problem. 

Dermatologists know how to best keep the face sterile while extracting and will take care to protect the skin afterward. Additionally, they will often use a steamer or hot towel prior to the extraction process to open the pores, allowing the contents of pimples to be easily removed. 

For deeper and more painful acne blemishes such as cysts and nodules, going to your dermatologist is the best way to alleviate the symptoms. Dermatologists will sometimes inject corticosteroid to aid the skin as it fights the inflammation.[1] Dermatologists may also safely make an incision with a sterile blade or needle on the surface of painful acne cysts and nodules to drain the contents. Only trained and licensed professionals should perform these procedures.

Popping Pimples at Home

It is highly recommended to always have a licensed dermatologist perform acne extractions, however, If you absolutely cannot make it to the dermatologist follow these steps to ensure you protect your skin and don’t make matters worse.

First, wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap and your face with a gentle face wash.

 Use a facial steamer or hot towel on your face to open up your pores. 

Never put your fingers directly on your face, instead use cotton rounds, tissue paper wrapped around your fingers, or Q-Tips. Squeeze from each side of the pimple, never making contact with the pustule itself. If the contents of the pimple do not come out easily, stop your efforts immediately. 

Apply a toner or astringent to the affected areas with a sterile cotton ball or round.

Protect your face with an SPF. For added pro-healing benefits, apply Oxygenetix Oxygenating Acne Control Foundation with SPF 30 and 2% Salicylic Acid. Acne Control Foundation heals and conceals acne with flawless, buildable coverage.

Remember to keep your hands off your face. Picking can lead to scarring and further irritation and inflammation. If you pick habitually, wear gloves during activities you tend to pick such as watching TV or driving. The gloves will be a great reminder that you are taking action and care for your skin! 

Thank you for reading our blog today!

Sources

1. American Academy of Dermatology. Pimple Popping: Why only a dermatologist should do it, 2018. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/pimple-popping-why-only-a-dermatologist-should-do-it

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Why is Traditional Makeup Bad for Your Skin?

Ever wonder why skin care professionals advise against wearing makeup? We never hear about "why" makeup is bad we just hear "that it is". Therefore it is easier to dismiss the warnings because we are not educated on the "why". 

Until now, there has never been a makeup foundation that actually offers pro-healing benefits. Introducing this revolution begins with educating why makeup is not skin friendly and how Oxygenetix has changed the game. 

Occlusive Makeup 

Traditional makeup including mineral makeup and luxury brands are all occlusive, meaning they don’t allow your skin to breathe. This is a leading cause of skin challenges and overtime compounds the problem. Most skincare professionals advise their patients against wearing makeup, saying “makeup has non-friendly skin ingredients”.

Cosmetic brands avoid this topic largely because most cosmetics are made with water and oil. Cosmetics made with water and oil require preservatives. The preservatives used are petroleum based, blocking ambient air, stifling cellular renewal and preventing any beneficial ingredients in skincare products from ever penetrating to the skin cells.

Skin Needs to Breathe

When makeup occludes the skin, the pores become enlarged as they gasp desperately for air. These large pores harbor bacteria causing acne and irritation. Our skin is a living organism just like a plant. A plant needs oxygen and moisture to survive. If you were to put a plant in an enclosed box it would quickly begin to deteriorate. Wearing occlusive makeup is like putting your face in the same enclosed box and praying it will survive. Over time the stress on your skin cells creates premature aging and a myriad of skin conditions. 

Regardless of the medical advice, most feel they can’t leave the house without makeup to cover their acne, redness, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and more. Walking out the front door with no makeup is a task most can't do, even if it means the path to worsening skin. Finally, there is a solution backed by medical professionals and makeup artists alike.

The Oxygenetix Difference

Oxygenetix is an industry disruptor. Unlike traditional makeup, Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation is air permeable, with a breathable matrix allowing oxygen uptake to the skin cells. Coupled with all natural pro-healing ingredients, you can camouflage your skin safely. In fact, Oxygenetix is used as a post-procedure topical immediately following most cosmetic procedures and has been shown to accelerate wound healing. With added Ceravitae™ Complex, all Oxygenetix topicals promote rapid skin cell renewal and oxygen uptake. By allowing vital oxygen to reach the skin cells, wounds are given an optimal space to heal. Additionally, Oxygenetix is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and free of unpronounceable chemical ingredients. 

Whether you have a skin condition to heal, are recovering from cosmetic surgery, or want to maintain your healthy skin, Oxygenetix is the ideal choice.