Skincare advisor Q&A Get the answers to questions you never knew to ask
  • Acne & breakouts
  • Healthy skin, everyday
  • Beauty & makeup
  • Can stress cause acne?

    You bet! Stress causes hormones to fluctuate and your body to produce extra sebum (oil), which can lead to acne.

  • What is acne and how do you get it?

    Acne is a series of bumps on your face and/or body that are red and raised, otherwise known as pimples, zits or comedones. Acne occurs in basically two ways: dirt, oil and dead skin cells can clog pores and cause whiteheads or blackheads. Or, bacteria can get trapped in clogged pores and cause infections under the surface.

  • Can I get acne anywhere on my body?

    Yes, you can get acne on your chest, back or neck. However, acne will most likely occur on your face. If you're experiencing breakouts on your bod, steer clear of soaps and lotions that contain oil or fragrance.

  • Could my chocolate obsession be causing breakouts?

    It's not likely. Eating foods like chocolate, pizza or french fries won't necessarily cause acne, but everyone's skin is different. Keeping a well-balanced diet has been proven to drastically improve the look and feel of your skin.

  • Will popping my pimples get rid of them more quickly?

    No way! You should never pop a pimple. It may seem like a good idea at the time, but it will actually aggravate your skin and could cause infections and scarring.

  • Acne & breakouts
  • Healthy skin, everyday
  • Beauty & makeup
  • Is moisturizer with SPF enough protection?

    A moisturizer with SPF should be sufficient for everyday use, but everyone's skin is different and you'll probably want something stronger if you're out in the sun for extended periods. Make sure your SPF protects from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA (aging) rays cause most wrinkles, whereas UVB (burning) rays are the main cause for sunburns and skin cancer. You should always be protected from both to keep skin healthy-looking and beautiful.

  • Could what I put in my hair be affecting my skin?

    Very much--skin and hair go hand-in-hand. Styling products contain different kinds of oils (some more than others) so switching to a new one could very well cause acne. Not only does oily hair transfer unwanted oil to your face but it can also carry bacteria that cause skin infections. If you use hair products or have oily hair, keep it out of your face as much as possible.

  • Is moisturizer necessary, even if I have oily skin?

    Of course, hydration is a necessary step for healthy and beautiful skin. Moisturizers actually prevent dry-out, which could actually trigger an increase in oil production. Instead of cutting moisturizer out of your regimen, try a lightweight, oil-free product to avoid clogged pores.

  • Could my diet be causing acne?

    There are theories supporting both sides of that argument. Of course, a healthy diet is always recommended, just like drinking plenty of water and getting enough exercise. Exercise and hydration help increase circulation to better remove dirt and toxins that can clog pores.

  • Is washing my face more than twice a day bad?

    It could be. Over-cleaning your face can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it looking and feeling dry and dull.

  • Why is it good to sweat the small stuff?

    To get clean, clear and beautiful skin, you need to be thorough. Pimples and blackheads caused by oil and bacteria lurking deep down in your pores can be eliminated, but only when you're careful about following a skincare routine. Toning and exfoliating will help you get down to the nitty-gritty, and when you do, flawlessly beautiful skin will follow.

  • Acne & breakouts
  • Healthy skin, everyday
  • Beauty & makeup
  • How do I get rid of dark circles under my eyes?

    Sometimes you can't get 8 hours of sleep but your eyes shouldn't have to pay the price. You can avoid tired eyes by moisturizing the delicate area with an eye cream regularly. Eye creams are specially formulated for this reason and work even better chilled: the coolness will soothe and reduce puffiness. Putting wet tea bags or cucumber slices on your eyes may relieve puffiness, too.

  • How do I know if I'm keeping makeup on too long?

    If you feel like you're leaving makeup on too long, you probably are. Everyone's skin is different but in any case, extended periods of wear increase your chances for clogged pores and breakouts. Try to limit wear to less than 8 hours.

  • Do I still need to wash my face after using makeup remover?

    Cleansing is the most important part of your skincare regimen. It removes dirt, germs and bacteria that can cause breakouts. Makeup remover can do most of the job but you'll want to remove all remaining residue with a cleanser to help keep skin clean and clear. If really need to knock a step out of your cleansing ritual, find a cleanser that contains makeup remover.

  • How do I cover-up these blackheads?

    The best way to hide blackheads is by using a concealer and/or foundation. Heavier makeup will cover imperfections most successfully but is also more likely to clog pores. If you're having blackhead problems, make sure you stick to oil-free, noncomedogenic products.

  • Could my makeup be causing acne?

    It's possible. Since everyone's skin is unique, the reaction yours has to different kinds of makeup can vary, so if you start using a new product and you're breaking out, switch to a new one. Any makeup can clog pores and leave unwanted residue behind. Be sure you're using an oil-free product and rotate applicators regularly since they often carry dirt and bacteria.

  • Will washing my face get rid of my makeup? Or do I need to use makeup remover?

    Some cleansers will remove dirt but won't remove all of your makeup, which will clog pores and trigger breakouts. Most cleansers cannot remove eye makeup and will leave dark circles behind. To maintain clean skin, you should use a product that is specifically designed for makeup removal. For light makeup, such as blush, a regular facial cleanser will do the job.