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Skin Diaries

Beauty Gadgets

Beauty Gadgets

Are you still trying to wrap your head around new skin care products and then you see new beauty gadgets being introduced in your favorite K-Drama? Fret not, as we are here to discuss a few beauty gadgets that have been hyped about on social media platforms like Tiktok so you can invest wisely. In the era of increasing tech-based beauty products, here are some of our personal favorites: Jade Roller  The Jade Roller  is a traditional Chinese derma roller made of gemstones like jade, rose quartz and amethyst. It is hands down the prettiest tool in my skin-care tool box. It is advised for individuals to use their serum or face oil before using the jade roller to massage the serum/oil  into your skin so it would deeply penetrate. The tool itself is extremely relaxing and leaves a cooling effect on your skin given its gemstone nature. It also leaves my face noticeably less puffy as the face rollers are said to help sculpt the features, by way of encouraging drainage and toning slackening muscles, which feeds our collective compulsion to contour Gua Sha  The gua sha is sister tool to the jade roller as they both focus on similar objectives. The gua sha is a method that promotes lymphatic drainage, which helps to eliminate bloating caused by interstitial fluid that is trapped under your skin which needs to be released to your lymph system. The gua sha can also help decrease puffiness and soften fine lines and wrinkles by helping the body produce more collagen. Nuface Mini Facial Toning Device  NuFACE  is an at-home microcurrent device that is more cost-effective in the long run and claims to offer similar results to trying microcurrent devices in a clinic. The devices are often compared to workouts as they strengthen the facial muscles.This device helps with preventing the visible signs of aging, such as sagging skin, uneven texture, and dullness. While it’s not a permanent solution to the inevitable wrinkling and loss of firmness that naturally occurs over time, NuFACE users may see temporary improvements in the appearance of their skin firmness and brightness. Facial Steamer  Facial steamers work by cleansing your face with steam which eventually helps in the opening of your pores and removes the dead skin cells on your face, removing the dirt which may have been trapped. Besides unclogging your pores, a face steamer also softens the blackheads which are otherwise so difficult to remove. It is not as simple as placing your face over a bowl of boiling water as these facial steamers have nano-ionic steam which helps penetrate the skin easier and friendlier. However, we do suggest individuals with dry skin to not use this regularly as steaming too much may irritate your skin. These are the few beauty gadgets that have been in trend lately on social media platforms that we thought were worth talking about so you can choose your beauty gadgets wisely as you may not need some of these tools. The good news is you can get the all time favorite beauty tool with us here :

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Niacinamide

Everything about Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a very popular skin care ingredient from the Vitamin B3 family and yes, it is not the same as niacin. Niacinamide and niacin are both nutrients derived from Vitamin B3 but carry out different functions for the skin.  Niacinamide is a water-soluble nutrient that is very complementary to use for your skin as it would work well with the natural substances in our skin. It is an extremely effective ingredient in skincare products for treating a number of conditions, such as eczema , rosacea and promotes anti-aging. On the other hand, niacin - the simplest form of Vitamin B3 focuses on boosting the growth and development of the human body. It helps by converting food into energy, which then specifically improves circulation and reduces inflammation. Here are some benefits of using niacinamide in your skin care routine : Helps Individual with Extremely Dry Skin  Niacinamide also works wonders for extremely dry skin because it helps restore moisture loss and dehydration on the skin's surface Helps with Pores  Minimizes pore appearance by keeping skin smooth and moisturized that naturally reduces the size of pores over time  Help balances oil Niacinamide can also help regulate the amount of oil produced by our glands and help balance them with our skin condition. Protects against sun damage. Niacinamide helps protect the skin from the sun by rebuilding healthy skin cells while also protecting them from damage caused by ultraviolet rays. Treats hyperpigmentation.  Niacinamide concentration helps lightens dark spots. Benefits were seen This benefit may be due to increased collagen production. Vitamin B3 is safe for all skin types and all ages especially those who suffer from inflammatory conditions like rosacea. Thus, we recommend those with acne, wrinkles and extremely dry skin to incorporate niacinamide into your skin care routine. We also think it always best to consult your dermatologist if you're experiencing irritation from using them, or you're unsure of introducing new products into your routine.

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Types of Acne - The Mineraw

Types of Acne

Acne is a skin condition caused by clogged pores in your skin due to hair, sebum, bacteria and dead skin cells. These clogged pores often result in different types of acne such as blackheads, whiteheads, and more. It is very common to experience this common skin condition especially for people from the ages 11 to 30 that could be caused from hormonal changes, dietary intake, hygiene issues, or stress.  It is vital for individuals to understand what is healthy for their skin and the indications they show when a new acne is formed. Individuals should be able to distinguish between the types of acne as not every acne formed is considered a break out and some should get checked by a dermatologist. Here are the few types of acne that you should know : Non-Inflammatory Acne Blackheads Blackheads are comedones (clogged hair follicles due to oil and dirt) that are open at the surface of the skin. The black spot is due to the irregular reflection of light coming from clogged hair follicles. Blackheads can frequently be treated with over-the-counter medications. Whiteheads Whiteheads occur when excess oil and dead skin cells prevent a clogged hair follicle from opening.This acne is considered a closed comedones as the excess oil and dirt have prevented the hair follicle from growing.It is slightly difficult to treat this acne compared to blackheads given its closed nature. Inflammatory Acne Papules Papules are comedones that become inflamed causing the walls surrounding your pores to break, forming small red or pink bumps on the skin. This type of pimple may be sensitive to the touch as it may leave a scar if individuals try to pick on it. A large number of papules may indicate moderate to severe acne. Pustules Pustules are also formed when the walls around your pores break down. However, pustules are filled with pus. These bumps are often formed with a whitehead surrounded with a red or pink ring. Picking can cause scars or dark spots to develop on the skin. Nodules Nodules are large, inflamed bumps that feel firm to the touch as the inflammation is deep rooted into the skin which causes it to be very painful. Nodules should be treated by a dermatologist since they can scar. Over-the-counter treatments may not be powerful enough to clear them up, but prescription drugs can be effective  Cysts Cysts can develop when pores are clogged by a combination of bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells. The clogs occur deep within the skin and are further below the surface than nodules. These large red or white bumps are often painful to the touch. Cysts are the largest form of acne, and their formation usually results from a severe infection. This type of acne is also the most likely to scar. We highly encourage individuals to take the time and really look at their skin. Although touching or picking your skin is a BIG NO in every case, some acne may lead to more dire consequences such as leaving a scar. We also urge you to get your acne treated immediately without causing further inflammation or infection to the skin. Here are some of our recommended products to help you treat your acne concerns :  

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Eye Cream

Eye Cream

Are eye creams just fancy skin care products that aren't necessary in our skin care routine? Let’s talk about why people are investing so much in quality eye creams. The area around our eyes is the most fragile part of our face given the countless movements, expressions and winks that happen. Thus, this sensitive area requires special maintenance to keep it looking its best. This is how eye creams come in handy as they’re formulated to target the delicate skin around the eyes and deliver moisture and protect the skin. Eye creams aim to reduce eye bags, puffiness, and uneven tone while keeping the area nourished and supple. Because the skin around the eyes is very delicate, this is typically the first area to show fine lines and signs of aging. Dryness in this area is also a common problem that worsens over time, as less sebum is produced near the eyes. Here are some benefits of using eye cream: Helps with wrinkles and signs of agingEye creams are rich with moisturizing ingredients that can help protect the skin in the area and delay signs of aging. Properly moisturizing the skin also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines as the ingredients essentially fill spaces between skin cells. Layer of protection Many eye creams also contain SPF to help protect your skin from damaging ultraviolet rays and the aging signs they cause. Choosing an eye cream with SPF 15 or more helps to prevent unnecessary damage and keep the skin healthy. Helps with dark circle and eye bags  Hate looking like a panda thanks to your dark circle? With constant use of eye cream, you too can overcome this skin concern as it helps hydrate your under eye while providing ample nutrients to heal the skin barrier.  We do believe beauty lies in the eye of the beholder thus it is important to take care of them well. Studies show that signs of ageing are most visible around the eye area as they form wrinkles there the fastest. We do recommend individuals to understand the significance of eye cream and start incorporating them into your skin care routine gradually.

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The MIneraw - Toner

Toner - To Exfoliate or Hydrate

Figured out your cleanser but don’t know how to start your skincare routine? Fret not, as we are here to talk about the basic product after cleansing your face. A toner is water like liquid that delivers skin with a quick hit of hydration and helps remove some dead cells off the surface of the skin resulting in plumpy , glowy skin. A toner also acts like a primer for the rest of your skincare routine like serums and moisturizer due to its quick penetrating properties.  A good toner is either acid-based, to exfoliate and resurface, or hydrating, to lock in moisture.  It can contain ingredients such as acids, glycerin, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatories.  Whether your skin is sensitive and looking for soothing benefits, acne-prone and needing excess oil removal, or dry and thirsting for moisture, the right toner can target concerns and treat accordingly.  Exfoliating Toners  Exfoliating toners are products infused with chemical exfoliants such as AHA and BHA acids, which help to shed the dead skin cells clogging your pores. They also help evening your skin tone by  minimizing dark spots and improving overall skin texture. These formulas often include soothing and hydrating ingredients to balance out the exfoliation which also helps balance pH levels of the skin microenvironment. Exfoliating toners are more suitable for those concerned about: Aging skin  Acne prone skin  Sensitive skin  Individuals suffering rosacea  Here are some examples of Exfoliating toners: Hydrating Toners By picking the right formulation, toners can even help keep dry or sensitive skin. By preparing  the skin to soak up the active ingredients from the upcoming products in the skin care routine such as moisturizer, serums and face oil by restoring the skin’s pH level and improving its penetration level. Individuals with dry skin should avoid ingredients with drying properties like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxides, AHAs and BHAs in their toner in order to increase the skin’s ability to absorb the moisturizing properties.   Hydrating toners are more suitable for those concerned about: Dry skin  Oily skin  Dull skin  Here are some examples of Hydrating toners: Don't forget to get your toner with us:

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TM - Dermatologist

When to visit a dermatologist

Are you tired of investing in expensive skin care products but you still have stubborn acne that just won’t budge? I’m sure most instances do not require you to book an appointment with your dermatologist but we also urge you to take some indications as a warning reflecting from your skin.  Stubborn acne Usually, breakouts and acne can be treated by over-the-counter medications. But if your acne is cystic which is unusually red and the pain is very deep rooted then we do urge you to see a derm at the earliest. With the help of a dermatologist, you can avoid scarring due to acne with procedures like microneedling, chemical peels, and lasers." Itchy hives or rashes  "If you have a small or large patch of skin where you've suddenly developed a strange rash, burning, itching, or irritation, see a dermatologist immediately," says Dr. Rodney. "An over-the-counter solution may give some relief, but there could be an underlying issue that won't go away without your dermatologist's help." Rashes can have many causes, including eczema, contact dermatitis, infections, fungus, or an allergic reaction. Another red flag: irritation that's accompanied by increasing warmth, tenderness, redness, swelling, or pus. "These are all signs of infection, which need to be treated as quickly as possible to prevent worsening," cautions Dr. King. Skin irritation Skin concerns like eczema often indicate us with itchy, red, flaky skin and that cannot be cured easily with over-the-counter creams and lotions. We do recommend individuals to not overlook these conditions as a factor due to the weather or food if it continues for a prolonged time. As in reality, you could have a chronic skin condition. A mole  Suddenly noticed a new mole on your skin ? It could be nothing but we would also like to raise awareness among individuals that the most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. You can identify them as harmful if your mole is a skin-colored, red, or sometimes dark-colored bump with a rolled border.If you realise the mole changing color over time or it isn’t going away you are highly advised to go visit a dermatologist just to make sure. Unlike melanoma, basal cell carcinoma is unlikely to spread to other parts of the body, but it can grow into nearby areas if left untreated. We hope the knowledge we have shared today will help every individual out there to take care of your skin and be alert to any new changes they are omitting so you can take early precautions when necessary. 

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TM- Sheet mask

Sheet Masks - Whack or Wack

Sheet masks are the last minute heroes we turn to in case of an occasion, party or just to have a relaxing day. Who wouldn’t like that soothing piece of sheet on your face as you relax and pamper your skin. A sheet mask is a serum-soaked cloth sheet that has holes for your face. Sheet masks do make you feel great instantaneously as it is packed with wonders in a sheet that only requires 20 minutes of your time. Sheet masks are aimed to provide an instant boost of hydration for your skin but they do not help with complicated skin issues like breakouts, hyperpigmentations etc. Are sheet masks practical in our daily lives now? In the era of modernization in which everyone is conscious of the environment, you must have paused once to think about what happens to a sheet mask when trashed. Although they work wonders for the skin, they aren’t that kind to the environment. To begin with, one sheet mask pack is a lot of waste given the packaging and the mask itself would all go to the bin as soon as the 20 mins is up. Most of them are not recyclable or reusable.  Thus you can see many environmentally friendly brands making the effort to provide the same benefits while reducing waste. Ideally, you could be considering was-off masks that you will find a far wider range of skin benefits.. While sheet masks tend to focus on hydration, wash-off formulas can do everything from exfoliation, anti-aging, prevent acne breakouts, and more! A gentle reminder to all those individuals trying out wash-off masks from drugstores, additional fragrances should not be a factor when purchasing a face mask as it would include  irritating fragrances and physical exfoliants like microbeads and ground shells or fruit pits which are not necessary for your skin care products . There are a few hidden gems that can be bought at your local drug store but make sure you’re taking a close look at the ingredients! Don't forget to check out our personal best selling face mask packed with vegan, cruelty free and clean wonders in a tub :  

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The Mineraw - Retinol

The Rave about Retinol

Ever wondered about the hype retinol has been getting all over social media? Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A that falls under the broad category of retinoids (yes they are not the same). Retinol is mainly used to treat acne and aids with anti-aging that could be used tropical from over the counter or prescriptions from your dermatologists. It comes in many forms such as creams, gels, lotions, ointments and serums. Retinol is not meant to clear up the dead skin cells on your outer layer surface. Instead, the small molecules go deep beneath the epidermis (outer layer of skin) to your dermis and helps neutralize free radicals. This helps boost the production of elastin and collagen, which creates a “plumping” effect. Here’s a few benefits on how retinol could solve your skin concerns: Helps with anti-aging  Retinol also exfoliates your skin and increases collagen production, which can reduce overtime as we age in our body. Thus, retinol prevents the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a glowing and glass skin like finish. Helps with acne/acne scars   Acne is a condition caused by dead and dry skin cells that build up on our pores causing blackheads, pimples and whiteheads. Retinol increases skin cell production (proliferation) that helps unclog pores on our skin. Individuals have to give this ingredient enough time to work as the first few weeks may result in a retinol purge causing a breakout on your skin. Overtime, the retinol would adjust to your face pH and help with the acne. Helps with dark spots Dark spots (hyperpigmentation) is a result of our skin barrier being damaged due to the sun. The colour pigmentation that differs from our skin tone is a result of melanin build up. People find that topical retinol lightens their skin spots, though it takes months and can be irritating to your skin. It’s a good idea to see a dermatologist (a medical doctor who specialises in conditions of the skin) if you’re concerned about dark spots. All in all, we do believe that every ingredient or product has to be applied in moderation and with due diligence when it comes to the skin, especially retinol given how active it is. You can find topical retinol nearby your drugstores or similar retinoid alternatives like: Adapalene (Differin®, Epiduo®). Alitretinoin (Panretin®). Bexarotene (Targretin®). Tazarotene (Tazorac®, Avage®). Tretinoin  We advise individuals to start with the lowest pH concentration of retinol to observe its effectiveness with your skin before jumping into something very active. If you are still unsure, it is always best to visit your dermatologist for a second opinion. Here are a few of our personal favorites for beginners: 

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Exfoliation mistakes - The Mineraw

Exfoliating Mistakes

Exfoliation in a nutshell is the process of removing dead skin cells on the outermost layer of our skin. Exfoliation can be done through a few mediums like chemical, granular substance, or exfoliation tool. Naturally our skin is bound to shed dead skin cells every month making room for new skin cells. However, some dead cells don’t shed completely. Thus resulting in dry, flaky patches and clogged pores in which exfoliating can help prevent. However, exfoliation like other skin care processes should be done right especially to accommodate your own skin type. Someone with dry skin should not be exfoliating similarly to someone with oily skin. It’s really about listening to your skin wants and providing exactly what is needed. It is important to maintain a healthy balance between shedding away dead skin cells while not stripping away your skin’s natural oils. By maintaining a twice-weekly exfoliating regime, you can keep dry, dull skin at bay without stripping away those necessary natural oils. Thus, we would like to discuss the common mistakes individuals usually make when it comes to exfoliating : Exfoliating too harshly Individuals believe that pressing exfoliating agents like sugar scrubs on the skin will work more effectively on the skin. However, harming the skin or introducing pain will only cause more damage than good to the skin so do be reminded to be gentle with your skin even when exfoliating. Exfoliating too often  As mentioned earlier, some people believe in overdoing some skin care routines like exfoliation in hopes they would achieve silky smooth skin faster. However, we are here to educate individuals to give your skin care products ample time for it to sit right with your skin and work its course.  Not cleansing before exfoliating Individuals should already have a skin care routine you would religiously stick to as doing them in the proper order would help protect the skin far more effectively. Thus, once should not forget to cleanse the skin before exfoliating as we would like to remove any external nasties on the outermost layer skin before we focus deeper to buff away the dead skin cells. Not applying moisturizer and sunscreen afterward According to the skin care stages, the protectant stage includes moisturisers and sunscreen that focuses on protecting the skin barrier within and out. Upon exfoliation, we are to believe our skin is as bare as a baby skin and we definitely want to add extra layers of protection and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Never skip the last stage guys!   Exfoliation is one of the healthiest things you can do for your skin. After slogging off the dead skin cells, it becomes easier for our skin care products to penetrate the skin in which we should nourish it with our vitamins, moisturiser and sunscreen to replenish what we have buffed. Individuals are again reminded to carry out their routine in moderation and ideally something that accommodates to your skin type. Don't forget to check out our most recommended product for your exfoliation process:

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