Exercise: The Skin Impact

When thinking of anti-aging, we know we have to protect our skin from stressors like the sun, free radicals and pollution, but have you ever thought about protecting your skin from exercise?  Seems like an oxymoron as we're encouraged to work out for a healthy lifestyle, but according to Dr. Dennis Gross, that too, can cause premature aging.  So what's a girl to do?

"When our cardiovascular system is functioning optimally we have proper circulation, which ensures the optimum flow of blood and nutrients to the skin," explains Dr. Gross.  Exactly our thinking.  Right?  Exercise is crucial for so many reasons.

"That being said, high impact exercise, especially running, may result in fabulous legs, but it can negatively impact the skin. It has been my observation that most die-hard runners have premature lines, wrinkles, and sagging."

Wait, what? It seems we're always sacrificing somewhere.  While I hate running, the risk of aging isn't going to make me stop as it's something I need to do for my body. You with me?  One recommendation Dr. Gross has is to reduce the amount of high impact exercise or alternate your routines to incorporate both high and low impact exercise like yoga to give your skin a break from being “stressed-out.”

Dying to know what you think about this... comment below!

Instant Holiday Party Prep Fixes

So far this month I've been feeling like I don't have a second to breathe, but it's not a bad thing as my schedule is full of holiday parties and I'm sure yours is too.  With that being said, I've been changing up my look for each one depending on the scene, but some of my prep has stayed consistent and because of my personality and lack of time, it all revolves around instant gratification.  I want results and I want them now!  Check out my favorite quick fixes.Daily, I use the Crest 3D White toothpaste and mouthwash to keep up my pearly whites, but I just did the 2 Hour Express White Strips again.  In all honesty, the two hour commitment is perfect for my schedule because I do it in one shot and not have to worry about dedicating a ton of time to something that I obviously don't have. Having an appropriate tan this time of year is respected.  I'm not talking really tan, but a nice luminous glow compliments every outfit.  I've been taking mine up a notch by using Model Co.'s One Night Tan on certain nights.  After I shower I rub the mousse in all over my body (except my face) and within seconds it dries and gives me a natural bronze.  I like the look because it makes my arms and legs look more toned, plus I don't sweat it off the next morning in the gym because it all comes off with my next shower.  There's nothing worse than wiping your face with a white towel and having it turn brown thanks to self tanner.  Talk about embarrassing!

When it comes to my face I rely on Dr. Dennis Gross' Alpha Beta Glow Pads.  One word: Amazing.  I use them in the morning about once a week or the day I have a big party or event after I cleanse and before I put moisturizer on.  My dull, winter skin turns radiant within an hour or so and as a bonus, it also has anti-aging ingredients in it like Vitamin D.  Warning – the more times you swipe the pad across your face, the darker the glow.  I normally swipe it two to three times.  Don't swipe over your eyebrows and avoid your hairline.

The Product that Transformed My Skin: Dr. Dennis Gross' Extra Strength Alpha Beta Peel

When I rave about a beauty product I really love it.  Everyday I get sent about twelve bags of beauty loot and about 100 emails from beauty PR firms introducing me to new products that are hitting the market so I can test them out and keep them in mind for upcoming blog posts and freelance work.  Well, when I find something that wow's me, I let you know right away. Hence, this blog post on Dr. Dennis Gross Extra Strength Alpha Beta Peel that has changed my skin care regimen for life. Last month I attended an event at Dr. Dennis Gross' office and was introduced to a few new products.  Since then, I've been using his Extra Strength Alpha Beta Peel Pads every day after I cleanse each morning and swear to you that I constantly look like I just got a facial.  Now that's a strong testimonial.

It's a two-step alpha hydroxy acid treatment that works as an at-home facial peel to help exfoliate your skin and improves texture and overall appearance over time.  Now it's been just over a month that I've incorporated the towelettes into my morning skincare routine and I've noticed any winter dullness is gone, smaller pores and overall a brighter, more refreshed complexion.  I did not get any irritation or redness from this daily peel, but if you think you may, I'd recommend using it every other day or trying his original Alpha Beta Peel first.

After cleansing, you simply rub one towelette across your face in a circular motion (for exfoliating purposes) until it's dry.  I normally do it about three times.  Then, wait two minutes and do the same with the second towelette to neutralize the ingredients in the first.  Once finished, apply your serums and moisturizers as you normally do and watch what happens.

Boost Your Radiance Giveaway

There's no need to let your skin dull in the midst of the bitter cold weather.  Dr. Dennis Gross, a well known NYC dermatologist developed a line of skincare products that have been trusted for years.  One of their newest, the Hydra-Pure Radiance Renewal Serum promises to leave you with bright and more radiant skin.  Sold. The serum helps to even out your skin tone by lightening any areas of hyperpigmentation on your skin and helps to prevent further dark spots. Besides your face, you can also use it on your neck, chest and hands.  It retails for $95.

Want one?  I have 15 to give away!

Follow @BeautySweetSpot and @DGSkincare on Twitter and RT our Tweets about the giveaway.  Three will be given away each day from today through Friday.  Those who participate most will be chosen by both myself and the brand and alerted.  Good luck!