Why Your Skin Needs Some ZZZ's

Beauty Rest.

If you think it's just some old wives' tale, you are sorely mistaken. Getting a decent amount of sleep (we're talkin' 8 hours, folks) can do wonders for your skin, let alone your overall heath, well-being, and happiness. Take a clue from Benjamin Franklin who is quoted as saying, "Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise." He probably meant to include that it makes your skin glow, but it just didn't rhyme. That's okay, Ben.

How it helps.

Believe it or not, your body does some serious work while you're snoozing in dreamland. Sleep allows the body to rehydrate and also prepare excess water for removal. These processes are crucial for reducing fine lines, dry skin, and puffy eyes.

No short-cuts. You might think that by staying up late to study for your exam, you're getting more done, but you're actually minimizing the efficiency of your brain. That stressed-out brain takes longer to process data and is less likely to recall information (sort of important when you're taking that test). Take the time to get proper R&R; in turn, you will be more productive. You will also feel more attractive, which definitely makes you look more attractive. Confidence is everything!

Not only does stress cause breakouts and inflammation, it also causes tightened capillaries which make your skin look dull. Stress is also linked to flare-ups of common skin problems like eczema and rosacea. The simplest way to reduce stress is to stop what you're doing and get your slumber on.

How to get it.

For some people, getting a good night's rest is easier said than done.  If you have trouble sleeping, follow these guidelines:

• Do not eat close to bedtime. If your body is trying to metabolize food while you're sleeping, you are likely to have restless sleep.
• Minimize screen time before bedtime. There is a tiny mechanism in your brain called a suprachiasmatic nucleus (fancy, we know). It measures the light coming in through your eyes and sends this information to the rest your brain. The more light it receives, the more your brain thinks it is daytime and you need to be awake.
• Meditate. It's important to calm the mind before sleep. All day long, your mind is creating, thinking, reading, making decisions, planning, calculating. It's difficult to quiet the buzz. Try to sit quietly, mediate, and let your thoughts fall away. You can get back to them tomorrow.
• Limit caffeine consumption. Caffeine stays in your body much longer than you'd think. While the initial buzz might be gone in a few hours, caffeine effects can linger as long as 14 hours.
• Skip the nightcap. Those in the 21-and-up crowd are well-advised to avoid alcohol near bedtime. The sugars in alcohol metabolize and this disrupts REM sleep, which is necessary for restoration.
• Exercise. Get out there and get moving. Just make sure you don't exercise too close to bedtime.
• Aromatherapy. Essential oils like lavender and roman chamomile are known to calm the mind and inspire tranquility and peace. Use them in a diffuser or add a few drops to your bath.
• Take a nap. Short naps can actually help you sleep better at night. They super-charge your energy level and provide a much-needed reset to help you shine throughout the day.

What about you? How do you get to sleep and stay asleep? Let us know in the comments!

7 Ways to Get Active Without Setting Foot on a Treadmill

We’ve all been there. That moment when you have a heart-to-heart talk with yourself and realize your exercise game has been seriously lacking and you need to do something about it pronto. So you lace up your running shoes and force yourself to hit the treadmill. And if you’re anything like me, you keep thinking, “Has it been 20 minutes yet?” . . . literally the whole time.

But I’m here to tell you that exercise does not have to feel like torture. There are plenty of ways to get active, get moving, and get fit without running. Of course, if you’re one of those crazies that loves running, don’t let me stop you! Keep doing what you love.

1. Epic Dance Party

So you just watched Footloose or Step Up for the thousandth time. Now put those moves in action, blast your favorite Kelly Clarkson album and shake it. If your skills aren’t exactly on par with Jenna Dewan-Tatum, feel free to close the curtains first.

2. Take a Hike!

Make use of this slightly-mild weather while you can. If you haven’t been taking advantage of the state and local parks in your area, you are certainly missing out. Scope out the best parks near you and go explore those hidden gems! Take a friend or your favorite music.

3. Play with Little Ones

If you spend any time with your nieces, nephews, neighbor kids, etc., you know they are a boundless source of energy. Ask them to play tag (freeze tag, hide-and-seek tag, shadow tag, regular tag, the varieties are endless), jump rope, kickball, catch, Frisbee, anything! They will love you for it, and so will their parents. I call this a win-win-win.

4. Join an Intramural Sports League

Community social clubs are happening, people! This is a great way to make new friends and get active at the same time. Whatever your sport, there’s a league out there for you. Get on a team, whether it’s volleyball, basketball, kickball, soccer, hockey, dodgeball, or even corn hole!

5. Group Fitness Classes

If you want to get your zen on, take yoga. If you want to get your sass on, take Zumba. If you want to get your legwarmers on, take step aerobics! Call up your gym ask them for this month’s group fitness schedule. Don’t be afraid to ask what each class is like. Feel free to try kickboxing or that Power Whatever class. If you don’t like it, no sweat; just try something else next time.

6. Swimming

Sure it’s November. That doesn’t mean your can’t scope out a good indoor pool. Plenty of local schools and community centers offer swimming lessons and free swim sessions to the public.  

7. Prancercise

Yes, I said it. You can prancercise yourself right around the neighborhood. Just set your iPod to John Mayer’s Paper Doll and the rest will come naturally. This skip-dance hybrid is easy on the joints and more intense (and fun!) than walking. Who cares what the neighbors think?

Whatever you decide, the point is to get out there, get moving, and have fun! If you love your exercise, you will keep doing it. If the treadmill is your thing, I certainly won’t stop you, but the rest of us need a little something else. Now get out there and get active! Your body and your skin will thank you.

The Real Horrors of Halloween!

Even if you’re well beyond trick-or-treating age, candy is still abundant towards the end of October: bowls of tootsie rolls on the office desk, free cupcake samples at the supermarket, candy-corn flavored lattes at coffee shops. We’re not going to tell you to write off all Halloween sweets, but it is important to be aware of the consequences large amounts of sugar can have on your skin. 

When you consume sugar, your body responds with a release of insulin. This, in turn, triggers inflammation throughout the body. What does inflammation mean for your skin? It produces enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, which causes premature aging. You might not be worried about wrinkles while you’re in your early 20s, but be prepared to deal with the consequences later in life. 

Because acne—even mild cases—is rooted in inflammation, there is some credence to the saying that eating sugar will make you break out. Of course, not all "sugar” is created equal. Simple carbohydrates, like those that make up candy bars, are the worst offenders, because they result in sharp glucose spikes in your blood. This Halloween, balance your Snickers with some complex carbs. Have brown rice and veggies for dinner, rather than three slices of pizza. 

Three Don't Miss Halloween Skincare Tips

With shows like “The Walking Dead,” it’s no wonder that everyone is clambering to be some variety of zombie this halloween: a zombie nurse, a zombie army officer, a sexy zombie cheerleader. For those who prefer something a little less gruesome, the elaborate dia de los muertos getups are also gaining popularity. 

Unfortunately, both of these costumes—and a host of others—require significant amounts of makeup. I’m not talking about a little eyeliner and blush, but layers and layers of thick, cake makeup. Here are a few tips to keep your reflection the next morning from being scarier than your costume. 

1.) Invest in your makeup: Don’t buy the cheap makeup palettes you find at Halloween stores. These products are often “comedogenic,” meaning they clog pores. Instead, purchase higher quality theatrical makeup. It might cost a little more in the beginning, but think of the money you can save on an extra trip to the dermatologist. 

2.) Get a barrier: Before slathering on that thick green makeup base, apply a barrier cream. This will prevent even non-comedogenic products from getting into your pores.

3.) When All Hallow’s Eve is coming to an end, it can be temping to climb into bed, telling yourself that you will wash the pillowcase tomorrow. If you do this, however, you have more to worry about than laundry. Be sure to remove all makeup as soon as the festivities are over to avoid potential irritation. 

4 Foods to Avoid if You Want Good Skin

I know we’ve been slamming sugar and sugary drinks for a while now. We have good reason: sugar has been known to worsen acne because it causes systemic inflammation. To make matters worse, it has also been shown to damage collagen, which means you can expect wrinkles later in life. Compounded by the fact that Americans consume about 22 teaspoons daily--three times the suggested amount--it’s no wonder that our country is afflicted by pimple-filled teenage years.

But sugar isn’t the only dermatological villain. Today, I’d like to look at a few other offenders, some of which might surprise you. 

Milk: You may think that you’re being healthy by gulping down that glass of skim milk with breakfast, but harmful hormones can still be present even after pasteurization. In our bloodstream, these hormones can increase insulin levels, thereby causing inflammation. Stick to organic brands to avoid this.

Chips: Refined carbs that you find in chips and other bagged snackfoods can cause oxidative processes, which damage DNA and collagen. A study put out by the The Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that these troublemakers are also usually responsible for adult onset acne. Buyer beware.

Smoothies: Sure, if you’re blending up a hearty kale-and-apple smoothie at home, you’re probably fine, but many store-bought varieties come with loads of added sugar--from ice-cream, sweetened yogurt, or syrupy fruit. 

Margarine: Oils and fats are important for adequate skin hydration, but not all sources are created equal. A recent study showed that margarine has the opposite effect: it dries skin out, leading to wrinkles.

Feel like there’s nothing left in the fridge that you can safely munch? Check back next week, when we investigate 4 foods that are good for your skin!

Source: http://www.prevention.com

Meat-Eaters Rejoice! The Importance of Protein

My boyfriend is a staunch carnivore; he could eat filet mignon for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if our budget would permit. That's  why I was shocked when he told me he had made reservations at one of Philadelphia's most popular--if eclectic--restaurants.

"It's called Vedge."

The name was descriptive enough; we were going to a vegetarian restaurant. When we arrived, however, I was surprised to find that, not only was there no meat to be found, the menu also avoided dairy ingredients. That's right, my paleo-pumping boyfriend had booked dinner at a vegan restaurant. 

Dinner was amazing. I've never tasted vegetables with such deep flavor profiles, but this is not a restaurant review. Rather, I want to use Vedge as a counter example. Sure, it's fine to keep a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle for moral reasons, but protein is a complicated nutrient and is inefficiently consumed when a person is eating only vegetables. 

What we call "protein" is actually a collection of amino acids, which are the building blocks of life. Essential animo acids cannot be manufactured by the body and must therefore be consumed through diet. While it is possible to get these through plant sources, animal proteins are "complete" proteins, meaning they contain all 9 of the essential amino acids. This makes things like hardboiled eggs and meat jerkies fantastic pre-workout snacks.

For those athletes who are vegetarians, it's important to get your protein from multiple sources: think tofu, beans, nuts, and quinoa. As long as you're getting those amino acids, the source is of secondary importance!

Fall into Good Hydration Habits

Fall sports season is upon us! Whether you're a football player, swimmer, or runner, you'll need to keep yourself hydrated during the cooler weather. Surprisingly, it can be more difficult to do this in October and November, because you have a lower natural drive to drink liquids; it's chilly outside and you're not parched. But your body's needs don't disappear just because the leaves are changing color and temperatures are dropping.

So how much should you be drinking? The exact volume is difficult to calculate, because it depends largely on your surroundings and activities. If you're sweating profusely—which may happen if you're sprinting down the field to score a goal—you'll need more water than a freshman sitting in English class. There are two important things to remember about hydration:

1.) If you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated. You want to avoid letting your body get to this point.

2.) Drinking water before physical activity is particularly important, as it is more difficult to "catch up" on hydration once your body is already depleted.

What should you be drinking? As you've probably heard, water is your best option. Even "all-natural" fruit juices are high in sugar and can be harsh on a dehydrated stomach. Also avoid high-sugar energy drinks that promote "electrolyte replenishment." Instead, we're fans of the sugar-free, dissolvable tablets, Nuun, which provide the same electrolyte benefits.

We're not saying to avoid spiced cider and hot chocolate this fall. Just be sure you're gulping down some Dasani or Poland Spring along with it.

Source: http://www.heart.org/

Cosmetics for Acne-Prone Skin

Listen up, cosmetic enthusiasts: make-up won't make you breakout. That's right. Contrary to some widely-circulated myths, make-up, even the inexpensive brands you find at drug stores, is not the underlying cause of acne. Most people who experience severe acne can blame fluctuating hormone levels for their breakouts. That is not to say that makeup can't make your problem worse. There are certain ingredients that can exacerbate already breakout-prone skin. Today, we're going to take a look at a few of the culprits.

Watch for consistency: Avoid thick, creamy products, whether it's a roll-on bronzer or a compact blush. Not only do these inhibit your skin's ability to breath, they are also more likely to clog pores.

Beware of Irritants: It seems like a no-brainer when it comes to avoiding irritating ingredients, but sometimes these come in disguise. Specifically, I'm talking about fragrances like grapefruit, lemon, or cinnamon. Your best bet is to choose products with naturally-occurring scents. It's always a bad idea to add irritation to skin already compromised with whiteheads or cysts.

What to look for instead: Stick to powder-based formulations for blush and bronzers, as these are less likely to clog pores or irritate. In general, they are more "breathable." When selecting a concealer, liquid products are good options, because they tend to accumulate gradually. Eye make-up is generally less of an acne-concern, because these products are applied only to small areas.

Remember, there's nothing wrong with using make-up from a skincare perspective. Just be sure you're educated about the best products to use--and ensure you wash off those products at the end of the day!

Dark Spots: Or Why You Should Always Wear Sunscreen

I'm 26, which means, for the most part, I'm out-of-the-woods in the acne department. That's not to say that an occasional breakout doesn't crop up along my hairline from time to time, or that I don't notice a zit proliferation when I'm stressed out about an interview. I'm just saying that I no longer experience that roller-coaster, hormone-driven pimple parade every time I look in the mirror.

Because I am not constantly plagued by acne, I tend to take more notice when I do breakout. I purchase expensive concealing powders to cover up even the tiniest of red spots. If I see the beginnings of facial inflammation, I hit it with a dose of GR8/SKN's Clear. With fewer overall breakouts, I am able to concentrate all of my dermatological energy on treating the intermittent zits that manage to subvert my daily skincare routine.

The biggest surprise to my 20-something self was what happens when those breakouts start to heal. A couple of weeks ago, I was stressed: I had two interviews, a best friend hysterical over a guy, and a boyfriend springing a potential move to San Francisco on me. It was no wonder that I woke up one morning to find my cheeks dotted with an unusually high number of breakouts.

I proceeded as I normally would, washing twice a day with Clean, spot-treating with Clear, and finishing off with Reset. Unfortunately, there was one factor that I didn't consider: the sun. To ease my general stress levels, I went for morning runs along the river. On days when it was cloudy, I skipped the sunscreen. Big mistake.

No, I didn't get burned. There was no reptilian peeling. The problem was that I gradually saw the breakouts, now mostly healed, begin to darken. As I soon learned, this was due to "hyperpigmentation," a process that occurs when the sun's radiation causes melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, to darken. Result: facial blemishes that stick around long after they are healed.

Luckily, the solution is easy. Don't make the same assumption I did! Just because the sun isn't glaring down on you does not mean that you are free from exposure. Wear sunscreen even if you can't see the culprit.  

GR8/SKN is Looking for Campus Ambassadors!

No one is going to deny that you'll learn a lot in college, whether it's about calculus, biology, or English literature. But not all learning can—or should—be done in the classroom. Sure, you'll learn about living independently, about compromising with roommates, and maybe even about taking out loans. What about networking and real-world business acumen? For that kind of experience, there is no better option than becoming a campus ambassador. GR8/SKN is proud to launch its very own college rep program!

What will our ambassadors will be doing? 

Increasing Social Media Presence through Hashtags: Every week, we will send you photos that you can post on your social media accounts, although we also want to see your faces! Post photos of you and your friends using GR8/SKN products.

Creating Outlets for Campus Engagement: Identify existing—or create new—opportunities for raising GR8/SKN awareness. Go to sporting events, club meetings, or Greek life celebrations.

Communicate Virtually: For this job, you don't have to live in a cubicle, or even come into an office. Just be available for quarterly Skype meetings.

What will you get?

• A job that you can do while taking a full course-load and working somewhere else.
• Free GR8/SKN products!
• Great resume skills (marketing, promotions, event planning).
• A celebratory party at the end of the program :)

Interested? Fill out our super simple application here.

Dorm Life Skincare

It's the end of August, which means college campuses are starting to hum with activity; freshmen are hauling pin-boards and bean-bag chairs into their dorms and fraternities and sororities are throwing open their doors. If you're an upper classman, chances are you've already moved off campus, which means you likely have a private bathroom. For those experiencing dorm life for the first time, however, the idea of shared, grade school-style bathrooms might give you more butterflies than the prospect of a 300-person lecture hall. I won't deny that it's gross finding strands of strangers' hair on the shower stall walls or that it's annoying to wear flip-flops just because you want to brush your teeth without contracting athlete's foot. But one of the bigger challenges about acclimating to dorm life is maintaining a healthy skincare routine.

First, there's the issue of the shared bathroom. You won't have a private vanity in which to store your cleansers, toners, and moisturizers. Instead, invest in a small plastic tote container that you can use to shuttle your skincare essentials from bedroom to sink.

Second, moving into a new living situation can be stressful, and, as we know from last week's post, stress is a major factor contributing to acne. To avoid this, don't load up on killer courses your first semester; try to ease into academic life. Also be sure to get plenty of sleep. This might be tricky at first—especially if you are lucky enough to land a roomie with a heavy metal addiction or a love of late-night telephone chats. Solution? Bring earplugs!

Lastly, one of the biggest changes that accompanies dorm life is the advent of dining halls. No longer must you indulge your mother in "Meatloaf Monday." Now, your options are limited only by your school's food budget. Unfortunately, with 24-hour soft-serve ice-cream dispensers, many students forget all they learned about nutrition when they walk through the doors of the dining hall. Remember, your diet plays an integral role in the health of your skin. Sure, you can indulge every once in a while, but be conscious about getting a proper balance of whole grains, probiotics, protein, and anti-oxidants. Bonus: doing this will also keep the dreaded Freshman 15 at bay.

Not sure what products to bring along. Try the GR8/SKN line, developed specifically for young adult skin. See the products here!  

Back-2-School: Back-2-Breakouts

I've always liked the first day of school. A new outfit. The ability to see friends who have been away all summer at camp. A fresh set of teachers and classes. It's certainly exciting.  Unfortunately, from my experience, those early September days often bring with them a barrage of breakouts. Figures. On the one day of the year you hope to make a good impression. Below are some specific reasons why this frustrating back-to-school phenomenon occurs.

1.) You're a ball of stress: Even if you like school—even if you are a social butterfly itching to flap your wings—the start of the school year is abuzz with stressors. Is Eric still together with Jenna? Will you be able to survive AP physics? When should you start studying for the SATs?

This stress would, at worst, cause some mental anguish—if it wasn't for cortisol, a hormone released during stressful situations that causes skin irritation. This irritation inhibits your skin's barrier function, or its ability to keep out toxins and keep in moisture. The result? Breakouts and skin trouble when you want to look your best.

How do you beat this? Because stress is often the underlying cause of this poorly-timed skin trouble, try some classic stress-reduction techniques.

• Set up a routine, so that you're not scrambling every morning to make the first bell.
• Spend time with friends before the start of the school year to get back into the swing of your social life.
• Be sure to balance out academics with leisure.
• Drink water and eat well!

2.) You get touchy: Sure, your calculus teacher Mr. Jones may make you want to burst into tears every time he asks you to find a new derivative, but we're not talking about being emotionally touchy. When you're at school, whether you're slumped over your desk in French class or running your hand through your hair waiting for your turn to serve in gym, chances are you touch your face more than you would otherwise. Try to remain conscious of this tendency. Touching your skin will only introduce more dirt and oil, which will clog your pores.

3.) Varsity Life: Sports are a fantastic way to alleviate stress associated with the start of school; you are able to get rid of tension kinetically—whether you're kicking a soccer ball or making a touch-down. The trouble is that sports can exacerbate skin problems for other reasons. Our dermatological hygiene typically takes a turn for the worse. Honestly, who wants to go wash your face right after winning a match against a rival high school? Also, equipment like helmets and chin straps can trap dirt and cause breakouts along your chin and hairline.

This school year, be sure to pack away these tips with your pencil case and binders. I think you'll find them just as useful!

No Magic Bullets: GR8/SKN for Long-term Skincare

My "late" twenties are rapidly approaching and, although I still get hormonal breakouts, my dermatological concerns are rapidly turning towards aging. I'd like to avoid wrinkles and dark spots as long as possible. There are, after all, no Instagram filters in real life.

The aisles of Ulta and Sephora are lined with an assortment glossy-bottled creams, serums, and eye lotions that promise fountain-of-youth-type effects, topical means by which to turn back the years and regain that dewy, pre-teen complexion. But to be honest, these products are expensive and for someone who has not yet reached the big "three-O," I'd rather spend my money on a trip to the Bahamas—or rent, for that matter.

GR8/SKN is different. These reasonably-priced products are not "magic bullets"; they don't promise to erase your wrinkles overnight or dissolve all evidence of acne. Having used them regularly for over a year, however, I have discovered what they do deliver: long-term skin health, with benefits that last longer than a quick acne-spot fix.

Sure, GR8/SKN has a spot-treatment (Clear), which contains powerful, but gentle, fruit acids to combat breakouts. But the line also includes less "acute" solutions, products that, when used regularly, will promote overall skin health. Once you're cleansing regularly with Clean and feeding your skin with vitamin A-packed Reset, you'll find that you're less dependent on harsh anti-acne treatments. Free yourself from the dreaded benzoyl peroxide dependency, and you'll find that you've really discovered the fountain of youth!      

The One and Only: Reset

I'm 26, which might come off as crypt-keeper old if you're just starting college or if you got your driver's license last week. I can assure you, however, that I still deal with my fair share of skin problems: acne flare-ups, hyper-pigmentation, and black-heads. While, I use all the products in the GR8/SKN line, one stands out as unique.

Reset is unlike any product I have seen on the market. Is it a spot-treatment? No. Is it a toner? Nah-uh. How about a moisturizer? Not even close. While GR8/SKN has products that star in those roles, Reset is what we called "A high-dose Vitamin A Serum." What's the big deal, you ask? Well, there are two things about Reset that really set it apart from anything you'll find on the shelves of Sephora or Walgreens.

First, it has Vitamin A: This super vitamin can be found in a variety of foods including leafy greens, mangos, and carrots. You may know that it is crucial for eyesight, but vitamin A also has dermatological benefits!  It can help treat acne, reduce the appearance of wrinkles (this is rapidly crawling up my priority list) and smooth out uneven pigmentation. One of vitamin A's most significant benefits, however, is its ability to reverse free-radical damage caused by too much sun exposure. This makes it a great choice if you've over-indulged in beach-time this summer!

The other "secret weapon" of Reset might be even more surprising to you. Probiotics, or "good bacteria," earn their reputation by solving stomach problems. The thing is that there is a connection between your "gut" and the rest of your body. If the bacteria in your digestive system are out-of-whack, you could be letting in toxins unknowingly, which may induce inflammation, a leading cause of acne. In addition to chowing down on some of these bacteria (kimchi, sourkraut, and miso are good options), hit your skin with a topical dose!

If I haven't convinced you of the benefits of Reset, check out Olivia Thai's awesome review.

For a short time, we're offering 10% online orders of Reset using the promo code below. Shop here!

  

The Not-So Sweet Truth about Sugar

I have an Australian friend who visited regularly while I was in graduate school. She is from Melbourne (pronounced "Mel-bn" to natives) so cities like Philadelphia weren't super exciting.

"Our clubs stay open until 4 am," she would say as bouncers ushered us out of Philly dance clubs at 2 in the morning.

What did surprise her, however, was our bread.

"It's sweet!" she'd say.

Having grown up on PB&J, it's difficult for the average American to detect a difference in our most beloved store-bought carbohydrate.  But it's a fact: packaged American breads often taste more like pound cake than something you'd pair with roast beef. This is because manufactures add sweeteners like high fructose corn syrup. It's sweet subversion!

Why is it a problem? Sugar in small quantities won't hurt you; reserve it primarily for a tiny post-dinner dessert; the issue is that the sweet stuff has infiltrated almost all of our processed foods, from "juices" to breakfast cereals. While we all know that sugar is bad news for a trim waistline, it is also a villain to clear skin.

First, it induces inflammation by causing changes in blood sugar levels. Inflammation in the skin results in redness and irritation. But the wavering blood sugar levels are problematic in and of themselves. When you eat a large amount of sugar, it stays in your bloodstream temporarily, but your body soon releases insulin. This pushes the sugar into your cells, leaving little in you bloodstream, which can make you feel dizzy—and stressed! We all know that stress is a known contributor to breakouts!

Sugar can also cause premature aging through a process called glycation. When sugar molecules in your blood attach to protein, they form dangerous new molecules called "AGEs." These guys damage the healthy molecules around them, especially collagen, which is responsible for youthful, tight skin.

What's the solution? Well, if moving across the world to escape the sugar epidemic isn't realistic, try incorporating more whole foods--fruits, veggies, and proteins--into your diet. Make your sugar really count--like in rich, Belgian chocolate rather than a liter of cavity-inducing orange soda!

The Sun-Care Lexicon

Maybe you're prepping for your SATs or cramming as many GRE words into your brain as cognitively possible. Whatever the occasion--whether a freshman-year pop-quiz or a college literature exam--a good vocabulary never goes out of style. But there are some vocabulary lists that don't get the attention they deserve. Today, we're going to take a look at some important words in the sun care lexicon.

SPF: This acronym stands for "sun protection factor" and conveys how well a sunscreen protects your skin from solar radiation. (In reality, it is the ratio between how much radiation it would take to burn unprotected skin versus how much radiation it would take to burn screened skin.)

Photostable: Many sunscreens on the market tout this label; it just means that they won't degrade when left in the sunlight, which is lucky. What good is a sunscreen that decomposes at the beach?

Nanoparticles: Sure, they sound like something out of a Marvel superhero movie, but these little guys actually exist. In order to earn the "nano" prefix, the particles must be less than 100 nanometers in diameter, which makes them common ingredients in physical sunscreens. The tiny particles allow the zinc oxide to dry clear, rather than white.

Anti-oxidants: These powerhouses neutralize damage caused by free-radicals. Combined with a good sunscreen, they'll keep you safe all summer long.

Melanoma: This is the most dangerous kind of skin cancer and the number one cause of skin-related deaths each year. How to avoid it? Use sunscreen whenever outside and reapply it every two hours. Also, do what you already know: avoid tanning salons!

My Benzoyl Peroxide Dilemma

I've been a GR8/SKN user and fan for over a year. My favorite product in the line? Clean, because I strongly believe that healthy skin begins with a good cleanser—one that maintains the pH of my skin and keeps my epidermis working like the defensive linebacker that it is.

But I admit it: sometimes I slip up. This June, I left my apartment in Pennsylvania to vacation with my mom and sister in Virginia. I packed meticulously—or so I thought. Toothbrush? Check. Seven pairs of underwear? Check. GR8/SKN products? Nope, and boy, did I regret that oversight.

The trip started out roughly. My skin had more blemishes than a pre-pubescent teenager; so much for being out-of-the-woods in my mid-twenties. I was panicking, because I had no means to battle the ever-increasing vanguard of zits cropping up along my hairline. I didn't want to reach for one of those questionable DIY remedies like toothpaste or baking soda. I opted for something FDA-approved: my mom's clinical-looking "Acne Cream" sitting in a basket next to her sink.

I should have known better from the packaging design alone. The tube was red and white with ugly, block typography. But the sub-title was the real hazard sign: "High Dose Benzoyl Peroxide."

GR8/SKN products avoid this often-used ingredient due to its potential to dry out and irritate your skin; I haven't touched the stuff since making the GR8/SKN leap in 2014.

It's an understatement to say that my poor epidermis didn't react well. When I woke up the following morning, I didn't look like I was going through puberty anymore; now I looked like a molting reptile. My skin was peeling like a lizard's around my temples.

Needless to say, I chucked that little tube back in the vanity drawer and resolved to tough out the rest of the week without  topical help.

When I got back to my apartment my first priority was skin relief. I opened my vanity cabinet, and my GR8/SKN products were practically glowing with divine light. I might work for GR8/SKN, but my allegiance to the products is wholly personal—and this BPO disaster story only cemented that opinion.

Post-Sunburn Remorse: The Solution

We all have regrets. Maybe it's the half dozen donuts you downed on your coffee break. Perhaps it's choosing to major in English literature your freshman year in college instead of going into the business school like everyone else. Or maybe it's forgetting to put sunscreen on your shoulders before going body surfing at the Jersey shore. While I don't have much advice about fried, circular confections or about majoring in the Humanities, I can give you some tips on what to do if you find yourself in dreaded post-sunburn agony.

Hydrate: This one is simple. Got a sunburn? Guzzle some water. The burn pulls water from your core to the surface of your skin; you'll want to replenish your internal reservoir. Try to avoid dehydrating drinks like soda, coffee, and alcohol. Stick with water and flavor it with lemon or cucumber instead.

Moisturize: Trap whatever water you can by applying a high quality moisturizer. Hydrate is not so much a moisturizer as it is a dermatological superfood. Nevertheless, rich with vitamins, it delivers all of the nourishment your skin needs after a bad baking session. Get it here!

Take Cover: This one might be a little tricky—especially if you're vacationing in the Bahamas—but once you're burned, try to stay out of direct sunlight. Rent or buy a big beach umbrella, don a wide-brimmed hat, and hug the shade!

GR8/SKN has also developed a topical solution for your sunburn woes: The Post-Sunburn Mocktail. This trifecta of sunburn relief includes Clean, Hydrate, and Reset. Use it at night after a day at the beach, a steamy tournament, or an extra sunny hiking adventure.

Our Thirsty Planet

A size comparison of the Aral Sea

CNN is talking about it. National Geographic is talking about it. We figured we needed to start talking about it. Here at GR8/SKN, we try to be environmentally-friendly. We work out of a small office whose carbon footprint is smaller than a mouse's pawprint. Our packaging is "post-consumer," which means that the materials have already been used in one way or another; it's a kind of recycling. But there is a bigger environmental concern currently facing our planet, and, unless you have a 10-foot diameter garden hose and an endless supply of water, the solution to the problem is  not immediately clear. Sure, it's great to grab your canvas bag before heading food-shopping or to bring your own mug for a fill-up at Starbucks, but some climate consequences currently facing us won't be stopped with  reusable containers alone.

NASA has recently warned that the American Southwest and Great Plains regions are in for "mega" droughts within the next century. It doesn't take a fortune-teller to see that this is on the horizon. Water levels in Utah's Lake Powell, one of the country's largest reservoirs, are the lowest they have been in years. Nevada's Lake Mead is suffering a similar fate. Engineers have constructed a subterranean tunnel to maintain the reservoir's connection to its source, the Colorado River.

Water shortages aren't restricted to North America either. The Aral Sea of central Asia, once the world's fourth largest lake, is rapidly shrinking. It's eastern section has completely dried up--for the first time in 600 years. The cause? Most scientists are pointing to decreasing levels in under-ground water tables—thanks to increased drilling practices.

What's being done, you ask? Engineers from around the world are formulating solutions. And for those of us who don't have PhDs in geophysics, try turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth--like Mom told you to do when you were five. Hey, it's a start!

Vacation-Time Skincare

Screened and ready to gallop in the Shenandoah Valley.

I get it. You're on vacation. You want to eat the local delicacies. You want to drink all the pina coladas—virgin if necessary—your stomach can handle. You want to bum on the beach and snooze in a hammock. The last thing you're thinking about is your epidermis. But as something of a globe-trotter myself—ok, country-trotter this summer—I've learned the importance of carrying your skin routine along with your passport and your Dramamine.

To be perfectly honest, when my boyfriend and I drove down Route 1 to Key West at the end of May, my bag was bulging with bikini tops and snorkel gear—not with facial cleansers and non-comedogenic moisturizers.  Sure, I brought some good ol' SPF 30 Screen. Unfortunately, after our seven-day sojourn was over, I had realized my mistake. My face was peeling from the salt water and sun exposure—and was in desperate need of some Hydrate, GR8/SKN's dermatological superfood. Despite the dryness, I was also breaking out along my jaw-line, which made the already-miserable 6 am flight back to Philadelphia even worse. I should have brought my products.

By the time my trip to Shenandoah National Park rolled around in mid-June, I had sorely learned my lesson—and was still dealing with the damage of my Key West negligence: stubborn blemishes that refused to disappear and skin scalier than a gila monster's. This time, I brought the essentials: Clean, Hydrate, and Screen. Of course, even with my GR8/SKN staples, my skin wasn't perfect. As much as traveling can be relaxing, it is also stressful. It's important to preempt this stress—whether it's caused from 24-hour delays at the airport or from your car's engine over-heating half-way to the Luray Caverns—with a familiar and effective skincare routine. With small and portable bottles, the GR8/SKN line is an easy solution!

The Self-Taught Dermatologist

Don't get me wrong, I think the explosion of DIY beauty tutorials—from fingernail designs to complicated French braids—is exciting. But not all products should be incorporated under the "Do-It-Yourself" umbrella. Specifically, I'm talking about facial products. Here at GR8/SKN, we don't cook up our products in some haphazard RV kitchen—a la Breaking Bad. Our products are the result of careful R&D, so unless you have a degree in biochemistry and a fully-tricked out laboratory, we advise against concocting your own masks, scrubs, and acne treatments.

Masks: If you look at your favorite over-the-counter facial mask, you'll probably see some ingredients that you have in your pantry. Watch out! The formulations of commercial masks are carefully determined so as to avoid harmful ingredient interactions.

Scrubs: Just look on Pinterest and you're likely to find no fewer than a dozen different face scrubs. The problem? Using granular sugar crystals—or ground-up nut shells for that matter—as exfoliates is a bad idea. Scraping off layers of your skin is only going to cause scarring and possible infection.

Acne-Treatments: Toothpaste to clear up zits? A tried-and-true way to pop a pimple? The trouble with at-home acne treatments is that the conditions are rarely sanitized. You may find that your efforts backfire when you unknowingly invite even more bacteria to take up residence under your skin.

So next time you're feeling crafty, Google a new brownie recipe instead—or go paint some mason jars. Leave skincare to the professionals; your epidermis will thank you!

"Skincare is for Chicks": False!

"Skincare is for chicks" is an all-too frequent phrase I hear flying out of the mouths of my male contemporaries. But I challenge you, macho, testosterone-slinging guys of this world, don't you appreciate a clean shave—one that leaves your cheeks and chin baby-soft? I know your girlfriends do.

But that luscious, post-shave complexion won't happen if you ignore skincare. I'm not asking you to waltz into Sephora and fill up a shopping basket with creams, serums, and moisturizers. The products below are sure to provide a clean shave without compromising your carefully-cultivated persona, whether you envision yourself on the cover of GQ or behind the handlebars of a Kawasaki Ninja.

So...aftershave?

Like pouring hydrochloric acid on your face.

These products contain perfumes and alcohol. They will burn the heck out of your face. What's a better option?

Try an After-Shave Balm Instead:

It shouldn't be surprising that running a razor blade over your skin will take off a couple of layers of skin. Soothe with a reputable product like The Art of Shaving Balm ($40).

HYDRATE ($24) is another good option; it's a light dermatological superfood that can relieve post-shave redness. Even better, HYDRATE won't leave you smelling like the inside of an Abercrombie store. You will smell fresh, clean, and totally kissable.

To top it off, you don't need to step inside a department store. Visit our on-line store and wake up tomorrow ready to wield your razor.

*Girls, everything we say about hydrate works for you, too. It is a fantastic after-shave balm for your legs.

Top Tips for a Clean Shave

Not to worry: we're not basing our shaving advice on Sweeney Todd. In fact, we hope to avoid all manner of blood and gore in our technique. But to be perfectly honest, many people do not know how to shave properly—and wonder why they end up with faces dinged more than the bumper of a 1998 Toyota. They buy expensive, multi-blade razors that promise baby-soft skin and, if we believe the commercials, a physique worthy of a GQ cover. Today, we're going to set you straight and help dispel any shaving misconceptions that might be floating around.

1.) Super-Soak It
Dampen those prickles before even picking up your razor. A soft hair is much easier to trim than a bone-dry cactus spike. Consider using a facial cleanser like Clean to speed up the process.

2.) Slow and Steady
It might not win you a race, but it certainly will prevent cuts and eventual scarring. Wake up ten minutes earlier if you're worried about being late for class.

3.) Stay Single
Believe it or not, a single-blade razor is the way to go, as it is less likely to get clogged and snag on hairs.

4.) No U-Turns
Remember to shave in one direction—preferably not "against the grain." This should help prevent those dreaded razor bumps.

Keep and eye on our Facebook page for more tips next week.

Solar Smarts

Whether you redden like a lobster or you tan like a zebra--stripes included--it's important to pay attention to your sun exposure. Even on cloudy days, that fireball is still a threat. Here are some things to remember when you're picnicking, beach-bumming, or strolling in the park.

1.) Avoid direct sun; peeks rays occur between 10 am and 4 pm.

2.) Wear a hat--and sunglasses: UV exposure can worsen a condition called "Post-Inflammatory Hyper-pigmentation."  Also know that even radiation entering through your eyes can stimulate the hormone that produces skin pigmentation. Protect those baby blues (or browns...)

3.) Reappy! Sunscreen, regardless of what the label might say, is only effective for up to 2 hours. Be sure to re-apply it diligently.

4.) Chow down on some anti-oxidants. Sound gross? Not so fast: strawberries, pomegranates, and blueberries are all great sources. Try them blended in a smoothie with almond milk.

5.) Also apply anti-oxidants directly to your skin. HYDRATE is a nourishing moisturizer that fits the bill.

When Cancer Stats Don't Convince

Melanoma is the most common form of cancer among young adults: in the past 40 years, it has increased by 800 percent in women and 400 percent in men (Skin Cancer Foundation).

But let's be honest; many young people are of the carpe diem generation—as evidenced by the YOLO campaign—and are primarily concerned with what makes them happy right now. Professor of Public Health, Dr. Hillhouse of Tennessee State University cited a comment from one of his students: "I know I'll probably get skin cancer from tanning, but that will be when I'm old, like in my forties." Hillhouse has realized that statistics—regardless of how shocking they may be—are not effective tools for dissuading young adults from dropping big bucks at tanning salons. They tend to shove them into that nebulous space of "old" age.

So what's his MO? He preys upon the very concept that drives people to tan in the first place: external appearance. Tanning has an impressive collections of ugly, superficial consequences—and Dr. Hillhouse uses them to good effect: he reminds students that fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and brown spots are just a few of the long-term consolation prizes you can expect. That's right: tanning is the gift that keeps on giving.

The ABCs You Never Knew

Sure, you've got down the "A is for apple" routine, but there is another alphabet that you probably haven't heard of—and this one might save your life.

In light of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, I thought we'd cover the ABCs of melanoma detection. Wait, let me amend that: the ABCDEs of melanoma detection. It can often be difficult to determine if that spot on your arm is a mole or something more sinister. Hopefully this will help alleviate anxiety.

A is for Asymmetry: A non-cancerous mole will be symmetrical, or identical on both sides. A cancerous—or "malignant"—mole, on the other hand, will not.

B is for Border: The outline, or border, of a melanoma lesion will be rough in appearance.

C is for Color: A malignant lesion will be multicolored, whereas your beauty mark or mole will be a single, probably brown, color.

D is for Diameter: Melanomas, especially at later stages, are larger in size than benign marks.

E is for Evolving: An ordinary mole will stay the same over time; a melanoma will morph, growing larger or changing color, for instance.

Need a visual? This is a side-by-side comparison of a cancerous and non-cancerous skin mark.

What's Up in May?: Your Skin Cancer Awareness!

The school year is rapidly coming to an end--or maybe your semester is already over. Whatever the case, chances are cancer is the last thing on your mind. You're thinking about volleyball, jet-setting to the Bahamas, or scooping ice-cream at your local parlor. But, with the warm, sunny weather, we tend to spend more time outside, increasing our risk--whether we realize it or not--for developing skin cancer.

I don't mean to be a downer. My point is not to equate summer with some doomsday prediction. That's why for May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month, I'm going to try to adopt a positive perspective. There is a fantastic campaign currently circulating: "Go with Your Own Glow" encourages women--although I think the message could equally target men--to accept their natural complexions.

The ads are pretty witty, too. This one is my favorite:

Another hard-hitting message from the minds behind "Go With Your Own Glow"? 

Want a killer tan?

You might just get one.

Sure, the messages are a little blunt, but in a society that has as many tanning salons as it has 7-11s, it's important to remind people--especially teens--that, just like fashion, skin color also follows trends. Unfortunately, while donning a pair of bell-bottoms might garner some sideways glances as school, this trend could land you in the OR.

Support "Go With Your Own Glow" here. 

3 Foods to Help you Detox

Let's be honest with ourselves. We consume a lot of metaphorical garbage: processed sandwich meat with questionable origins, sugar-infused energy drinks that decompose your teeth faster than a fungal colony, and, of course, the occasional deep-fried doughnut. Ready for a change? Ready to detoxify your body? Here are three super-foods to help you do just that.

Cranberries—are great antioxidants. This means that they help battle molecules called "free radicals," which can cause damage to your cells. Try them dried in salads or in a low-sugar juice.

Garlic and Onions—Sure, you might need a few sticks of gum after consumption, but garlic and onions are rich in sulfuric compounds, and they manufacture their own anti-oxidants.

Water—There is no hope for detoxing if the pollutants are just sitting in your system. Consume 8-10 glasses of water a day to flush your body. Don't worry about having to rush to the bathroom; that's the goal.

Exercise Induced...Acne?

For those us of in America, spring has finally arrived. With temperatures hovering in the 60s, we were finally able to banish our parkas and snow-boots to the back of the closet. What is replacing them? Shorts and t-shirts, sure, but there are likely some athletic uniforms cropping up, too. Spring marks the beginning of lacrosse and field hockey season—which is great news if you want to get fit for bathing suit season, but not such good news if you're hoping for clear skin.

What is it about these sports that makes them such dermatological villains? The gear! Sure, eye masks and helmets are important. Unfortunately, those bands and chin straps form prime environments for bacteria growth. It shouldn't come as any surprise that you'll often notice breakouts along your hairline and on your chin.

What can you do about it? First, be sure to keep your gear clean; try disinfecting sprays sold at sporting goods stores. Second, although it might be tempting to hang out after a big win, try to get back to the locker room ASAP to wash your face. We promise it won't wash away the sweet feeling of victory.

More on KP

I've put together a handy little graphic to give the the quick run-down on how to treat those stubborn bumps on the sides of your face and on the undersides of your arms. Known as "keratosis pilaris," this condition is caused when too much of a protein called keratin is produced.

"Chicken Skin": Acne or Not?

Whenever a little bump or blemish appears on your face, it's easy to blame it on that scapegoat, acne. However, the P. acnes bacteria is not always the culprit. Take the following condition, for instance:

You run your hand along your cheek or on the underside of your upper arm. It feels like sandpaper, rough and scratchy to the touch.

What is it? This is a fairly harmless—but somewhat unsightly—skin condition called keratosis pilaris. It occurs when your body produces too much of protein called keratin. Normally, keratin helps protect skin, but in large quantities, it plugs up your follicles, resulting in that mysterious "chicken skin."

What can you do about it? 

Treating "KP" is difficult, but there are a few things you can try.

1. Exfoliation by using a lactic acid-based product (These exfoliate gently while hydrating.)
3. Hydrate using a vitamin A-based product (This helps increase cellular turnover and regulate sebum production.)
3. Increase omega 3s in diet and through supplements.
4. Have a light, chemical exfoliation (peel) in the winter months.

Do you suffer from KP? Send us your before-and-after photos!

The Many Faces of Acne

The word "acne" usually evokes a certain image. Whether you call it "pizza face" or something even more insulting, you're probably imagining something like this:

In reality, however, acne takes many forms.

1. Non-Inflamed: Don't get lulled into a false sense of security; "non-inflamed" doesn't translate to "non-problematic." It includes

Whiteheads: trapped sebum under the skin

Blackheads: open pores to the surface; sebum oxidizes and darkens.

2. Inflammatory Acne: This is where the "sauce" of that pizza face comes in; expect redness.

Papule: Occurs when the follicle wall breaks. White blood cells rush in and inflammation occurs.

Pustule: A pustule forms a few days after a papule. This is the classic zit.

Cyst: This is when the pustule collapses or explodes, severely inflaming the surrounding skin; may engulf a neighboring follicle. This causes a large, pus-filled lesion called a cyst.

Nodule: When a follicle ruptures along the bottom, a large inflamed bump occurs that is sore to the touch.

These are just the most common forms of acne. Stop by next week to learn about the lesser-known varieties.

*While GR8/SKN products aren't formulated as "acne treatments," they are effective at minimizing risk, treating lesions, and reducing scarring. Check out the line here!

Behind the Scenes of GR8/SKN Branding

Think of how frequently you change your Facebook profile picture. Once a month? Maybe once a day. Or even every time you snap a good selfie, for that matter. A company's "brand" is something like a profile picture. It needs to encapsulate the image and qualities that you want to present to your potential customers. Here at GR8/SKN, we have cycled through a few renditions, and I'm going to give you a behind-the-scenes look at our brand's evolution.

Our first logo--and the one to which we have returned!

Original labels.

Problem? There wasn't enough differentiation between the products.

New logo design that was eventually discarded.

Finally, we've settled on our latest branding: it is gender-neutral, differentiated, and youthful! Look for it on shelves soon.

5 Skin Tips for Athletes

You already know that exercise is important—whether you hear it from your running suit-wearing gym teacher or from some enviable Instagram fitness expert. Of course, the best kind of exercise is the kind that you don't even perceive, like playing sports. Just think: when you are running down-field to score that goal or diving into your lap lane, are you thinking "Wow, I'm getting a really great cardio work-out"? No, you are immersed in the athletic experience; the fitness benefits are subconscious.

Unfortunately, just as you are unaware of these health benefits, you're also probably unaware of the potential skin problems that you might be causing.

Tennis: You don't wear helmets and you spend all day in the sun. Be sure to apply—and reapply—sunscreen during practice and matches.

Soccer: Wearing one of those headbands that all the European "footballers" are sporting? You might be Euro-chic, but pinning that sweat-soaked band to your forehead might produce some unwanted breakouts. Right after you guzzle your Gatorade, wash your face.

Baseball: Those hats and helmets may minimize sun exposure, but they are also the perfect recipe for clogged pores—especially around your hairline. Be sure to wash as soon as practice is over.

Golf: You may not be breaking a sweat, but golf tournaments are usually an all-day affair, which means you're soaking up plenty of UV radiation. Screen, screen, screen!

Swimming: Contrary to what you might think, that cool, crystal water you're slicing through with your butterfly stroke is actually drying your skin out. Make sure to moisturize regularly.