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By Emily Trampetti, Licensed Esthetician & Skin StrategistSkin Property Esthetics | Winter Garden, FL + Virtual Coaching Nationwide Let’s Clear Up the Retinoid Confusion If you’ve ever typed “best retinoid for skin” into Google or fallen into a late-night skincare scroll on TikTok or Instagram, you’ve likely come across two major players: tretinoin (aka Retin-A or Renova) and retinol. But what do they actually do? Are they interchangeable? And more importantly—should you be using one at all? This guide will walk you through the science, the skincare strategy, and the real-world results behind retinoids. Because choosing the right one isn’t about using what’s “strongest”—it’s about using what’s smartest for your skin’s condition, sensitivity, and goals. First, What Exactly Are Retinoids? Retinoids are a family of ingredients derived from vitamin A, an essential, fat-soluble vitamin responsible for: Skin cell turnover Collagen production Oil regulation Reduced breakouts Brightened pigmentation Smoother texture Protection against oxidative stress They’re some of the most researched ingredients in skincare—and for good reason. But not all retinoids are created equal, and how your skin processes them matters a lot. Retinoic Acid: The Real Star At the end of the day, all retinoids aim to do the same thing: convert into retinoic acid, the form of vitamin A your skin cells actually understand and respond to. Think of retinoic acid as the “language” your skin speaks. Your skin has special receptors—like little locks—that only retinoic acid fits into. Once those receptors are activated, your skin knows it’s time to regulate certain disharmonies in the skin such as skin cell turnover, collagen and oil production and even overall skin function. But not all retinoids speak that language right away. Some retinoids need to go through a few translation steps before they become retinoic acid. Others skip the small talk and go straight to work. Here’s the basic conversion pathway, from the most gentle (and slowest to activate) to the strongest and most direct: Retinyl Esters → Retinol → Retinaldehyde → Retinoic Acid (also known as Tretinoin) Each step down the chain means your skin has to do less of the conversion work. But that's not always a good thing for many skin types—especially if you’re sensitive, reactive, or just starting out. The more steps required, the slower and more controlled the activation, which helps reduce the risk of irritation and inflammation. Tretinoin, on the other hand, is already retinoic acid in its pure form. That means it skips all conversions and starts activating those receptors immediately. While that can be super effective, it can also overwhelm the skin if your barrier isn’t prepared or supported. So, choosing the right retinoid isn’t about picking the “most powerful.” It’s about picking the one your skin can tolerate, benefit from, and build on over time. What Is Tretinoin? Tretinoin is a prescription-strength version of retinoic acid. Some common brand names you may have heard of are Retin-A or Renova. Since it delivers that active form directly to the skin, it’s highly effective—but also much more intense. Originally developed in the 1960s for acne, tretinoin is now widely used for: Moderate to severe acne Post-acne scarring Fine lines and wrinkles Sun damage and texture Melasma and stubborn pigmentation But because it skips all the conversion steps, tretinoin can also come with: Redness and irritation Peeling and dryness Sensitivity and chronic inflammation Barrier disruption Especially if introduced too aggressively. What Is Retinol? Retinol is the over-the-counter sibling of tretinoin. It’s a gentler precursor that your skin slowly converts into retinoic acid over time. Because of this slower process, retinol is: More tolerable for sensitive, dry, or reactive skin A great option for beginners Less likely to trigger barrier damage Still effective with consistent use Better for long-term use without aggressive side effects In short, retinol is ideal for clients who want results without drama or long-term inflammation. Why Inflammation Matters So Much Let’s pause for a quick esthetician PSA: Inflammation is not your friend. While short bursts of controlled inflammation (like in a professional peel or microneedling session) can kickstart repair, chronic low-grade inflammation—also known as inflammaging—leads to: Collagen breakdown Increased pigmentation Accelerated aging More skin conditions Weakened skin barrier This is why I never recommend starting with the strongest option “just because.” More isn’t better. Stronger isn't always better. Smarter is better. If your skin is inflamed, nothing works the way it’s supposed to—including your expensive products. In fact, I often cannot even treat people who have been on tretinoin long-term as their barriers are super weak and raw. So... Is Tretinoin Better Than Retinol? It depends on your skin. Tretinoin might be a better choice if: You’ve used retinol consistently for 6+ months without any noticeable improvement in your skin condition(s). You have grade III or IV acne and have not found relief of improvement via facials, peels, or retinol usage after 6+ months. You’re supported by both a licensed esthetician and dermatologist collaboratively who both think tretinoin would be a good next step. You have a healthy, resilient skin barrier and a solid skincare routine including daily sunscreen usage. Retinol is typically better if: You’re new to active ingredients. You want long-term, sustainable anti-aging benefits. You have sensitive, dry, or easily inflamed skin. You’re focused on supporting your barrier and preventing issues before they start. You have weak kidney function or internal toxicity. And sometimes… no retinoid at all is the smartest option: If your skin is youthful and healthy. If you’re dealing with extreme sensitivity or barrier damage. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant. If you simply prefer a more minimal or natural routine. My Skin Property Philosophy on Retinoids Start with the skin barrier. If your barrier isn’t thriving, nothing else matters. Don't use a retinoid unless your barrier is strong and ready. Inflammation should be strategic, never chronic. Retinoids, especially retinoic acid, can create chronic inflammation. Stronger ≠ better. Smarter = better. Always. All skin is different and takes a unique approach. I don't have ONE client with the same routine or treatment strategy. I never slap retinoids into a routine just for the sake of it. I evaluate your goals, your lifestyle, and your skin’s real-time needs to build a plan you can actually stick to—one that gets results without wrecking your skin in the process. How to Choose the Right Retinoid Here’s the simple 5-step decision tree I use with clients: Step 1: Define your goal. Are we targeting acne, aging, texture, pigmentation—or a combo? No goals? Then we probably don't need a retinoid. Step 2: Evaluate sensitivity. If you flush, peel, or sting easily, we’re starting low and slow or not at all. Step 3: Start with a stabilized retinol or retinal. I typically recommend starting with 1–3 nights per week, gradually increasing with barrier support in place. Step 4: Pair it with proper support. Always use SPF, a nourishing skin-appropriate moisturizer, and gentle cleansers alongside your retinoid. Step 5: Reassess regularly. Skin evolves with time, seasons, hormones, stress, and life. Your skincare should evolve, too. This is why I typically change my clients' routines seasonally. Should I Be Using a Retinoid at All? Maybe. But maybe not. This is exactly where a licensed esthetician comes in—to help you decode the noise, understand your skin’s unique needs, and build a strategy that supports real results. Dermatologists are amazing at diagnosing and prescribing. But estheticians like me are your ongoing strategy partners. I help guide ingredient choices, monitor progress, pivot routines, and coach you through long-term changes—without the inflammation spiral. Do not rely on Google or ChatGPT for figuring out what you need - there's not substitution for an experienced expert. Final Thoughts From Your Skin Coach There’s no one-size-fits-all in skincare, especially with ingredients as potent as retinoids. Your skin is a living, evolving organ—and it deserves a thoughtful, personalized plan. So whether you're in Winter Garden, FL looking for a customized facial, or you're anywhere in the U.S. ready to start your virtual skincare coaching journey, I’m here to help you choose what’s best for your skin—not someone else’s routine. Ready to Start? Book your virtual consultation or in-person facial today and let’s find out if retinol, tretinoin—or something else entirely—is right for you. Skin Property Esthetics | Winter Garden, FLServing clients virtually across the U.S. and beyondBOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT HERE!

Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: What to Use, What to Avoid, and How to Glow SafelyNavigating skincare during pregnancy can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this comprehensive guide, licensed esthetician Emily Trampetti breaks down what’s happening in your skin during pregnancy, which ingredients and treatments to avoid, and what safe, glow-boosting options are still on the table. From calming facials to brightening routines that skip the fear, this is your science-backed, supportive roadmap to feeling radiant through every trimester.

by Emily Trampetti, Licensed Esthetician & Skin Strategist | Winter Garden, FL Let’s face it — summers (especially in Florida!) are no joke. The heat. The humidity. The feeling like your visiting the surface of the sun! One minute your skin is glowing, and the next you’re wondering why you suddenly feel greasy, bumpy, red and inflamed… even though you’re still following your routine and drinking all the water. If that sounds like you, don’t panic. This is a totally normal seasonal shift I see in most of my Florida clients — even those with the most consistent skin habits. Summer simply requires a new strategy. So if you're looking to keep your glow going without the grease, breakouts, or barrier breakdowns, here are some of my top professional skin tips for summers in hot climates: 1. Sunscreen Isn’t Optional — But It Should Be Wearable I say this often, and I’ll keep saying it: The best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually wear. I know there’s a lot of noise out there about “safe” vs. “toxic” sunscreens — and it’s confusing. But here’s the truth: sunscreen, when used properly, is one of the most effective tools we have to prevent skin damage, pigmentation, accelerated aging, and even skin cancer. So please, don’t let fear-mongering TikToks, Reels or sensationalized headlines scare you away from protecting your skin. Whether you prefer mineral, chemical, or hybrid formulas, find one that suits your skin and that you don't mind wearing.  (Need help? I carry some incredible lightweight SPFs that are perfect for Florida weather — and I’d be happy to match you with the right one.) 2. Don’t Just “Go Lighter” — Understand What Your Skin Needs Yes, summer skincare often means swapping heavy creams for lighter textures. But it’s not one-size-fits-all. Your skin’s hydration and oil levels are unique — and they don’t change just because it’s hot outside. In fact, I often see clients unknowingly under-hydrating during summer, thinking that dewy = oily (spoiler alert: it doesn't!). Instead of blindly following summer skincare trends, take a moment to reassess your skin - or ask your trusted estie for guidance. And please, please, please stop getting skin information from TikTok ;) 3. Summer Facials = Skin Armor, Not Skin Stress If you're getting corrective peels or aggressive exfoliation in the peak of Florida summer... please pause. Also please run from whomever thought that was a good idea! Summer is the time to protect, fortify, and strengthen your skin — not break it down. That's for fall and winter months. In my Winter Garden skin clinic, summer facials are all about shielding and supporting. I customize each service to help control inflammation, support healthy lymphatic drainage, strengthen your skin barrier, infuse antioxidants and natural UV/melanin protectants and fully equip your skin to gracefully handle this hard season.  4. Never Let Sweat Dry on Your Skin (Seriously) This is a golden rule in my book: Never let sweat dry on your face.I know — it happens sometimes, especially when you can't wash it off right away. But when sweat dries, it doesn’t just evaporate. It leaves behind salt and bacteria that can disrupt your skin's pH, trigger breakouts, and sensitize your barrier. This, as you can imagine, can lead to all sorts of skin issues you don't want! One of my favorite tips for helping plan around sweat sessions is to always have a clean, cool, damp towel or micellar water pad nearby if you’re on the go. And don't forget a replenishing moisturizer and SPF in your bag! It's not perfect, but it's better than dry sweat, lovely! 5. Stay Cool — Inside & Out Heat is a trigger for so many skin issues — rosacea, acne, eczema, and even plain old skin sensitivity!That’s why I always encourage my clients to cool from the inside and out throughout the summer months...and beyond! Sip cool or cold water throughout the day, and avoid hot drinks if it's warm Use cold compresses or chilled towels post-sun (Pro tip: I put clean spoons in the fridge and do some gentle gua sha with my serums after a hot sweat session) Limit foods and beverages that inflame the blood vessels like alcohol, spicy foods and hot dishes. Avoid going outside in the peak of the day to avoid the most powerful UV rays and heat. 6. And Lastly… Give Yourself Grace Summer is full. It’s busy. It’s a time to have fun!And yes, it can feel chaotic — especially if your skin isn’t cooperating. But please remember this: your skin is dynamic. It’s allowed to shift and change.What matters most is how we support it — with consistency, curiosity, intention, and a little compassion. So whether you're spending your summer on the water, at the beach, or  BBQ-hopping, know that I’m here to help you find a rhythm that feels good and works with your life, not against it. Come See Me in Winter Garden Looking for personalized guidance or a seasonal skin refresh? My 60-minute Signature Treatments are fully customized and available all summer long. We’ll fine-tune your homecare, restore your barrier, and give your skin the summer support it truly needs. Book Now! Limited June Appointments Available

Let’s talk about stress—for your skin. Because yes, your skin feels it too. Whether it’s showing up as sudden breakouts, dullness, redness, or extra sensitivity, skin stress is real, and oh-so common. As a licensed esthetician who works with stressed-out skin every single day, I can tell you this: when your nervous system is taxed, your skin isn’t far behind.  The good news? There are simple ways to help your skin (and your body) feel more supported and less reactive. Here are five of my favorite strategies I regularly share with clients—because calm skin isn’t just about what you put on it. It’s about how you care for it!   1. Pare it back to protect your barrier When your skin is in a stressed or "off" place, it needs time and strategy to reset. That means simplifying your routine down to the essentials products like a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum or ampoule, nourishing moisturizer and SPF. All of these products should be tailored to your specific skin. This isn’t the time for acids, exfoliants, or anything “active.” Your skin’s barrier needs to be nurtured, not challenged. Look for ingredients like ceramides, panthenol, beta-glucan, glycerine, essential fatty acids, allantoin, oatmeal and even hyaluronic acid—these help rebuild resilience from the outside in. 2. Opt for cold over hot Cool temps = less inflammation, and that's usually a great thing when it comes to stressed out body, mind and skin! Even a few moments of cold therapy can help calm redness, reduce puffiness, and reset your skin’s stress response. Try storing your ampoules or mist in the fridge, rolling a chilled facial tool (or even a spoon from the fridge!) across your cheeks, or applying a cold compress at night or after a workout. If your skin tends to flush, feel hot, or easily react, this can be a total game-changer. Also, you may want to skip the hot yoga session for a bit! 3. Feed your skin from within We can’t talk about skin stress without talking about internal stress. Today we know more than ever that stress is ever-so-connected to the gut. What you eat, how hydrated you are, and how well your digestion is functioning all play a role in how your skin shows up. When your skin is flaring, go back to basics:• Stay consistently hydrated (and limit the carbonated bevs!)• Incorporate calming, healthy fats like omega-3s (even consider a supplement!)• Minimize added sugars and processed foods• Take deep breaths while you eat and chew slowly—yes, really 4. Prioritize quality rest Skin loves (and thrives on!) sleep. It’s when the real healing and rejuvenation processes happen, including essential collagen production, inflammation repair, and nervous system regulation. But most of us aren’t getting enough restorative sleep. Make your evening routine more skin-supportive: • Keep a regular wind-down ritual—About 30 minutes before you want to go to bed, put your devices away, put a plush set of fresh pjs on and head to the bathroom to brush your teeth, wash your face mindfully, and give yourself a little massage while applying your finishing products. I love to either say my prayers during this time or set positive intentions for the next day. Then I'll either read a book or meditate for a bit before turning out the lights. For a bonus, you could even spray a little sleep mist on your pillow! • Sleep on a clean, skin-friendly pillowcase like 100% mulberry silk • Choose calming products that support overnight repair (think lipid-rich moisturizers or reparative ampoules) The better your sleep, the better your skin performs. 5. Gently stimulate lymph and bloodflow Your skin thrives on movement—specifically the gentle movement of lymph and blood. When circulation slows down (which it tends to do when we’re stressed, stagnant, or inflamed), your skin can look puffy, dull, or just plain older. Here’s how to wake things up without overwhelming your skin (because we're not talking about running a marathon here!): • Incorporate light facial massage with your hands, fingertips or gua sha tool. Light pressure is key, so put the muscles down. I love to gently tap along my cheekbones and jawline to stimulate blood flow while applying my serums. • Go for a walk after dinner to get blood flowing, followed by a gentle stretch session to de-puff and initiate healing. • Breathe deeply for a few minutes. This helps oxygenate stagnant blood and essentially feed your skin cells with fresh nourishment! This isn’t just great for lymphatic drainage—it also encourages oxygen, nutrients, and healing to reach the deeper layers of your skin. Want personalized guidance? If your skin is feeling off lately, it might be time to re-center with a custom plan. I’m here to help you figure out what your skin is asking for—and how to respond with confidence and care. You don’t have to guess, and you don’t have to go it alone. Let’s bring your skin back into balance—together. Xo Emily

A facial isn’t just a facial. There’s so much more to it than most people realize, and unfortunately, many facials only scratch the surface of their potential. So what truly makes a great facial, and what sets it apart from the rest? Whether you’re a fellow esthetician or someone searching for an amazing facial experience, this post will help you understand how to spot the difference between a so-so treatment and one that’s truly transformative. My Journey to Redefining Skincare Standards When I decided to branch out and start my own business, it wasn’t about hitting business milestones—it was more about staying true to my beliefs and delivering what’s best for my clients. I’ve always been driven by a passion for long-term skin health, staying ahead of product innovation, and maintaining the highest standards of efficacy, safety and cleanliness. After working in high-end spas and cosmetic dermatology offices, it didn’t take long for me to realize that a lot of the industry didn’t align with my values. Too often, the focus was on chasing trends or pushing pricey, less-effective treatments instead of really prioritizing what’s best for the client. I just couldn’t get on board with that in the long-run. For example: The Botox and Fillers Conundrum: Many dermatologists I worked with leaned heavily on injectables like Botox and fillers. While I enjoyed learning about these tools, I couldn’t support the way they were sometimes offered—without meaningful consultation or addressing foundational skincare. Seeing 25-year-olds receive injections without being asked about basic habits, like daily sunscreen and standard homecare product usage, felt negligent to me. Chasing Trends Over Results: A lot of the spa world tends to focus more on hype than substance. Treatments like Hydrofacials and flashy, overpriced brands often take center stage, but they rarely deliver the real innovation or proven results they promise. I wanted to go beyond the surface and provide treatments that actually work. Subpar Sanitation Standards: The lack of rigorous cleanliness in some environments shocked me. As someone who prioritizes safety, I knew this was non-negotiable. By 2019, I decided I wasn’t going to compromise anymore. I took the leap into entrepreneurship, trading the comfort of traditional roles for the uncertainty of starting my own practice. It was scary as hell, but I knew deep down that if I built something rooted in my values, the right clients would come. What Makes a Great Facial Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled to bring my vision to Winter Garden, FL, where I’ve created a skincare studio that offers something unique: goal-focused, fully customized treatments backed by advanced techniques and a results-driven approach. So, what’s the secret to the best facial ever? For me, it comes down to three key elements: personalization, innovation, and partnership. A truly great facial isn’t about trendy products or one-size-fits-all protocols. It’s about: Truly understanding your unique skin type, concerns, and goals then tailoring every aspect of the treatment to meet your specific needs. Every step of your treatment is thoughtfully curated with you in mind. Using advanced techniques and cutting-edge formulas that are backed by data and proven to deliver results. I believe that if you’re paying a premium for a skincare treatment, it better be effective! Providing ongoing guidance and fostering a trustworthy relationship to help you build a sustainable plan for healthy, radiant, and resilient skin. It’s about making sure you always feel supported and never lost in the often overwhelming world of skincare. When these elements come together, the results aren’t just noticeable—they’re transformative and long-lasting. Overall I like to describe my approach as “medspa results with a luxury experience.” It’s what I’d want as a client, and it’s what I strive to provide for every person who trusts me with their skin. So if you’re looking for a one-off facial every few months, I’m probably not the esthetician for you. But if you’re ready to prioritize your skin and want a partner to guide you every step of the way, I’d love to work with you and give you the best facial ever. In-Person and Virtual Services for Central Florida For clients in Winter Garden or nearby areas in Central Florida and the Orlando area, I offer in-person facials designed to be as relaxing as they are effective. If you’re not local, my virtual consultation and membership program ensures you can still receive expert guidance, no matter where you are. In fact, I have successfully helped clients across over 13 states transform their skin through these key elements. If you’re searching for the best facial in Winter Garden or want a results-driven, personalized approach to skincare, I’m here to help. Let’s make your skin the healthiest and happiest it’s ever been!   xo Emily Founder, Skin Property Esthetics

As summer rolls on, so does the excitement of sunny pool days, beach trips, and sweaty outdoor fun. But while we all love soaking up the sun, our skin can face some unexpected challenges. This season often brings about a few common skin concerns that can put a damper on our confidence. Let’s dive into the world of summer skin issues: back-ne, butt-ne, and chest-ne! What Is Back-ne, Butt-ne, and Chest-ne? Back-ne, butt-ne, and chest-ne are terms that refer to acne that develops on the back, buttocks, and chest, respectively. These areas can be particularly prone to breakouts during the warmer months due to increased sweating, humidity, and friction from clothing. It can also pop up from exposing the skin to chlorine swimming pools, freshwater lakes and even the salty ocean waters. Why Does This Happen? Increased Sweating: As temperatures rise, so does perspiration. Sweat can mix with oil and bacteria on the skin, clogging pores and leading to more breakouts. Tight Clothing: Summer often means wearing more fitted clothing, such as swimsuits and workout gear. These fabrics can trap sweat and create friction, contributing to acne in these areas. We even have to watch out for our sunglasses and hats as the rubbing of those items on the skin can cause more friction and bacteria-based blemishes on the face. Sun Exposure: While sunlight can “disinfect” the skin with its antimicrobial properties, it is also a surefire way to increase skin inflammation, irritation and free-radical exposure. These are three of the most powerful ingredients for cooking up breakouts.  Body Products: Certain sunscreens can cause breakouts in some due to certain ingredients that might get trapped in the pores. To prevent breakouts, look for oil-free formulas and make sure to cleanse and moisturize your body every afternoon or evening when you come out of the sun. Also watch out for certain faux tanning products, body makeup and oils. Shaving/Hair Removal: Summertime means shaving and waxing more (is it just me?), which can also leave our pores and hair follicles more susceptible to clogging and ingrown hairs. This is more common of an issue for those that struggle with butt and groin acne. Swimming: Depending on where you swim, you’ll still have certain risks of developing a breakout.  Chlorine pools tend to overstrip the skin of natural oils and hydrators, leaving the skin a bit more exposed and inflamed - a perfect environment for acne to thrive. Make sure you rinse off the body with fresh and filtered water immediately after swimming, along with soothing the skin with a lightweight moisturizer after. Freshwater lakes can also cause issues as you may be exposed to more pollution, bacteria and pathogens, which could cause everything from acne to certain health conditions. Again, make sure you immediately cleanse and moisturize the body after swimming in fresh water. Ocean swimming is probably the better out of the above two swimming options, but our skin is still prone to irritation from salt and other pollutants in the water. Follow the same practice of cleansing and moisturizing the skin right after you get out the water. Tips for Preventing and Treating Back-ne, Butt-ne, and Chest-ne 1. Keep Your Pores Clean Shower After Sweating: Make it a habit to shower after workouts or spending time outdoors. Use a gentle exfoliating body wash to help remove sweat, dirt, and dead skin cells. I love using Dove Body Wash products or any body cleanser with moisturizing ingredients inside for daily bathing. Spot Treat Breakouts: Use a 2% salicylic acid, 5-10% mandelic acid or 5% benzoyl peroxide-based cleanser to wash the areas that have active breakouts or brewing blemishes. This will help to kill bacteria, reduce inflammation in the area and provide accelerated healing. You may need to choose a face product over a specifically-labeled body product. Consider a Body Serum: Serums are not just for our face! We can also use targeted serums to help our body skin for a more concentrated treatment. I love to incorporate professional formula serums with every single one of my body acne clients. I especially like to use retinoid, alpha hydroxy acid, niacinamide and humectant-based serums for all body acne. Exfoliate Regularly: Incorporate regular physical or chemical exfoliants into your whole body routine - either via your cleansing or moisturizing. Look for products containing salicylic acid, mandelic acid or glycolic acid for chemical exfoliants, or a gentle scrub for a more mechanical exfoliation. I love to use products labeled at KP scrubs like this one from First Aid Beauty, or even exfoliating moisturizers like this one from Cetaphil.  Consult a Professional: If over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective, consider consulting an esthetician or dermatologist for personalized products, advice and treatments like chemical peels or specialized facials. NOTE: Remember that we never want to dry out the skin. This is a recipe for disaster when it comes to breakouts. We always want to keep the skin hydrated above all else! 2. Choose the Right (Dry) Fabrics Opt for Breathable Fabrics: Choose loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton to allow your skin to breathe. Take it Easy on Skin Tight Clothing: Tighter clothes can harbor more heat, bacteria and friction, which can lead to more breakouts. Air flow is your friend! Avoid Heavy Products: Avoid heavy creams or oils on the back and chest, opting for lighter lotions that are less likely to clog pores. Don’t Sit in Wet or Sweaty Clothes: Damp and dark environments equal bacterial and fungal growth. This can start to create the perfect landscape for breakouts and other undesirable health conditions (yeast infection, anyone?). Keep your Clothes (and Bedsheets!) Clean: Piggy-backing from above, never re-wear underwear, bras or other clothing that has been sweaty or soiled before you wash it. Always start with fresh, clean and dry clothing to avoid breakouts. 4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle The skin is so connected to the rest of our body systems that it would be ridiculous not to mention this aspect of skincare. The key areas of overall body health I see connected to body acne are: Hormonal Imbalances (can include certain birth control medications and IUDs) Chronic Stress and Sleep Deprivation Excess alcohol and/or smoking Certain food intolerances (get blood work done with your general doctor if you suspect this might a cause) If topical skincare, professional treatments and best practices don’t offer you relief from body acne, I recommend talking with your doctor about potential internal issues. Have Questions? If you have any questions or need personalized advice, feel free to reach out! Let’s make this summer your best one yet—free from skin worries and body acne! Xo Emily

Today, we’re diving into a fabulous concept that’s buzzing in the beauty world: Skinification.  And while a lot of trends are quite awful out there, I’m fully on board with this one since it’s supportive of skin and body health. So what is it? Skinification is the fun and innovative trend of applying skincare principles to your entire beauty routine—including your body, hair, and nails. It’s not just about “face” skincare anymore people! Many of us are (finally) realizing that our overall skin (yes, hair and nails are made of the same thing as skin) is just as important and deserving of tender loving care. Why Should You Care? First off, neglecting any part of your skin can cause a greater risk for exacerbated skin conditions like eczema, keratosis pilaris, premature aging, skin cancer and other health and confidence robbers. By extending your skincare routine to cover everything, you can achieve a holistic beauty regimen that makes you look and feel your best, along with keeping your exterior organ in tip top shape long-term. After all, healthy skin, hair, and nails are the ultimate confidence boosters! And no, it doesn’t require that much extra time or effort to achieve this. Let’s join this trend bandwagon together! Key Components of Skinification   Here are some skinification-inspired products and practices you’ll love that are also easy to incorporate into your daily routine: Body Care   Hydrating Body Serums and Lotions: Treat your body to the same hydration you give your face. Look for products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to keep your skin soft and smooth. I love Dove’s new line of body products like this one. Body Exfoliators: Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and reveal glowing skin. Gentle scrubs or chemical exfoliants with AHAs or BHAs work wonders. You can even use your old coffee grounds or brown sugar if you want a super easy and cheap way of smoothing that body skin. Just don’t use these on your face skin please! SPF for Body: Sun protection isn’t just for your face! Use a broad-spectrum SPF on all exposed skin to protect against UV damage. Lightweight, non-greasy options are perfect for daily use. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours. Hair Care   Scalp Serums & Exfoliators: Exfoliate your scalp to remove buildup and stimulate circulation, then follow up with a nourishing serum to keep your scalp healthy and balanced. Hydrating Hair Masks: Deep conditioning masks can do wonders for your hair. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and essential oils to lock in moisture and restore shine. I love this one! Pantene has a nice one here too! Anti-Aging Hair Treatments: Yes, your scalp ages too! Products with antioxidants, vitamins, and peptides help maintain a youthful scalp and prevent premature hair thinning or graying. Some great products are here and here. Nail Care   Nourishing Cuticle Oils: Keep your nails and cuticles hydrated with oils rich in vitamins and fatty acids. Regular use can prevent dryness and promote healthy nail growth. Sally Hansen’s product here is great or this one from OPI for nails, and use your regular face serums on your hand skin. Strengthening Nail Treatments: Just like your skin, your nails benefit from treatments that strengthen and protect. Look for products with keratin, biotin, and calcium. I love this product from Olive & June and this one from Sally Hanson. Hand Creams with SPF: Your hands are exposed to the sun just as much as your face. Protect them with a hand cream that includes SPF to prevent premature aging and sunspots. I love using Gold Bond’s Age Defense hand cream with SPF here. How to Incorporate Skinification into Your Routine  Full-Body Love: Once a week, use a gentle body exfoliator, followed by a hydrating body serum and lotion. Hair and Scalp TLC: Treat your scalp to a weekly exfoliator and serum, and use a deep conditioning mask on your hair. Nail and Hand Care: Apply cuticle oil and hand cream daily, making sure your hand cream includes SPF. Try to give your nails breaks from gel, acrylic or dip manicures to strengthen them. Consistent SPF Use: Apply SPF generously on all exposed skin every day, and reapply as needed. Let’s Get Personal! Curious about which skinification products are perfect for you? I’m here to help! Whether you’re looking for the best scalp serum or need a full-body, hair, and nail consultation, book a virtual or in-person appointment with me. Together, we’ll create a customized beauty routine that makes you feel fabulous inside and out. Stay beautiful and remember, healthy skin, hair, and nails are the ultimate accessories!  With love and glowing vibes, Emily P.S. Have you tried any skinification products yet? I’d love to hear about your experience!