Skincare Secrets from the PROs
We sat down with Dr. Mohiba Tareen, Board Certified Dermatologist, to talk about the importance of skincare, frequent brush cleaning, and much more!
Q: What is the most surprising thing your patients learn about taking care of their skin?
A: Patients can be [shocked] when we recommend a moisturizer with SPF during the winter time. UV rays reflect off the snow and can cause sun damage and increase their risk of skin cancer - even when it’s below zero.
Additionally, people are often surprised to learn that they have an increased risk of skin cancer on the left side of their body due to chronic UV exposure while driving.
Q: What are the most common skincare problems you see as a dermatologist?
A: Acne, rosacea, skin cancer, rashes and warts are some of the most common problems that we see in dermatology. Many of these problems can be traced back to improper skin hygiene or chemical or fragrance-laden products.
Q: What are the most common causes of acne, breakouts and infections?
A: Hormones play a crucial role in causing acne, but one of the most common [causes] is incorrectly cleansing your skin and not fully taking off your makeup before bed. Over-cleansing can dry out the skin and cause breakouts, so using gentle products or just water in the morning can combat and prevent irritation. Exfoliants should only be used twice a week at the most with light pressure.
As far as infections, it’s important to wash your hands prior to application and avoid touching your face throughout the day.
Q: What are some of your recommendations for proper skin care?
A: There are 3 things that are always a go-to for any basic skincare routine:
- Vitamin C in the morning
- Moisturizer with SPF30
- Nightly retinol
Q: What are your recommendations for the best products to use on different skin types?
A: For all skin types, we recommend a daily SPF…We [also] recommend hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic brands as they are gentle enough for almost every skin type.
For oily and acne-prone skin, use over-the-counter cleansers with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. A nightly retinol can also help to decrease oil production, shrink pores, treat or prevent acne scarring and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. I would also recommend a series of 2-3 glycolic and salicylic acid peels. For combination or dry skin, apply an intensive moisturizer, especially during the winter months.
Sigma’s Skincare Brush Set provides a gentle, yet effective, way to [apply] and enhance the penetration of skincare products without breaking or tugging and spreading infection.
Q: How can everyday beauty moments, like using our hands or brushes to apply makeup affect our skin?
A: When you are using your hands or dirty makeup brushes on your face, you are increasing the chance of clogging your pores with bacteria, leading to an acne breakout or infection. Applying makeup with your hands can actually exacerbate oily complexions.
It’s also important to be gentle around your eyes as the skin is very delicate and can lead to premature aging - We love the S20 Eye Cream™ in our Skincare Brush Set for this!
FUN FACT: Sigma’s skincare and makeup brushes are made with high-grade silicone and exclusive, ultra-soft synthetic fibers that are antimicrobial to protect your skin and minimize product absorption.
Q: Why is washing your makeup brushes important?
A: Frequently washing your brushes is very important as bacteria can build up. That’s why I love the science behind Sigma Beauty! Preventing bacteria, yeast and mite overgrowth with cleanliness [using their brush care products] and naturally derived makeup can reduce breakouts and rashes.
Q: How frequently would you suggest washing makeup brushes?
A: I would recommend washing concealer or foundation brushes weekly, and powder or bronzer brushes twice a month. Overall, the more frequently you do it, the better.