I think we can all agree that, right now, the times are very..... unique.

We are in the middle of a world-wide pandemic that is (among many other things) both confusing and terrifying. Most, if not all of us, are under stay-at-home orders with the closures of all physical locations of "non-essential" businesses. 
I could write on and on in detail outlining all of our concerns and dilemmas and how we could stay safe and what we should and shouldn't do. But instead, I am choosing to write about things that can assist all of us in both our mental health during this time and (of course) our skin!

• Set your alarm.  Even if you are not able to work from home right now, I've found that keeping a weekly schedule with an alarm at a reasonable time helps to keep me in a routine that my body actually craves. Plus, it will help keep us motivated with more energy and less likely to fall into depression.
• Wash your face! As an esthetician, I will always insist you never skip this step. But, not only does it help keep your skin fresh and more clear during times of stress, it will help you wake and feel refreshed and ready for the day! Consider pampering yourself with an enzyme and hydrating mask once every week or two to maintain a glowing complexion and detoxing.  
• ​Do something everyday you'll look forward to.  I suggest this for first thing in the morning, if you can. Not only does it motivate you to get up and get you looking forward to the day, but it also starts your morning off positively. For me, it is a cup of coffee while reading a chapter in my book.
• Get outside!  I have a dog, so for me it's easy for him to convince me it's walk time! But even if you don't, sit on your balcony/deck/porch to eat lunch. Play catch with your kiddos. Or take your laptop under some shade to work. Maybe even put your yoga mat in the backyard for an evening stretch.
• Exercise.  No need to go crazy if this one isn't your cup of tea. It could be as simple as walking outside or stretching while watching a show. Right now there are many apps that lead you through Yoga and at home workouts too if you want to give it a try! My husband and I are members of the YMCA and just downloaded their app.
• Finish a home project you've been putting off.  This is something I've noticed most of my neighborhood partaking in. So many home projects (or even little crafts) we mean to start get pushed to the back burner due to lack of time and energy. Do that vision board. Create that painting. Pressure wash the driveway. Hang those pictures on the walls of your apartment.
• Give your brain a break.  Zoning out on a good show or movie every once in awhile is a nice vacation from my thoughts these days. Some talked about ones that we've watched and enjoyed so far are:  Tiger King (an insane show on Netflix that makes your life seem boring), The Invisible Man (a strange thriller that keeps you guessing available to purchase on Amazon Prime), Dark Waters (to get you worrying about something other than COVID-19, available to rent on Apple TV). Also, any comedy is a give-in right now.... we could all use some extra laughter! 

Remember - This is temporary. We will get through this. And you are strong.

Xo
Jacquelyn

Annoying. Persistent. Inconvenient. Painful. 
These are just a few adjectives that jump to mind when describing acne.

In my experience, breakouts are the single most troubling concern people have at ANY age.
It is true that as we age anti-aging becomes the front-runner of worries, however, add a bright red inflamed pimple into the mix and we are right back to being stressed and laser focused on how to zap it (literally).

I could list off a hundred little tips that may help clear your skin, but what I really want to do is list off just a handful of small unsuspecting culprits that lead to perpetuating an outbreak.

Your cellphone
Yep - Your best friend that is in arms length 24 hours a day.
This thing is touched constantly and put up to your cheek numerous times daily. But how often is it cleaned? It is bacteria central and no judgements here! But try to cleanse your phone using an antibacterial wipe at least weekly (or more), especially if you notice breakouts along the side of your face you most commonly hold it to.

Your pillowcase
If you're like me, you don't wash your sheets every-other day (hey - I am busy). Honestly, I probably wash them every-other week but tell myself it's okay since I am a night shower person. But I will say that I wash my pillowcases at least weekly, if not more. It doesn't matter if you just washed your face before bed, at night you often sweat and it may become damp and harbor bacteria.

And your washcloth
YES, first of all I do recommend you have a separate washcloth for your face. I personally have a towel for my body, one for my hair, a washcloth for my face, and a hand towel for when I wash my hands. The one I launder the most? The facecloth of course. Even though you use towels when you are already clean, they tend to stay damp and bacteria can cling and get stuck in the material. I wash this even more often than the pillowcase!

Your actual hands
So many of us touch our face constantly throughout the day whether it's to push our hair back, wipe a tear or drop of sweat, or simply because we have the habit of resting our chin in our hands absentmindedly. My husband can't stand that I won't let him touch my face during the day but..... come on! When you think about all the hands you've shaken and doorknobs you've touched that others have too, it changes your perspective. Try to be aware of how often you touch your face without thinking and make sanitizer your new bestie!

Beyond that, make sure you clean some odd-ball things that are often forgotten in our everyday lives; light switches, doorknobs, your steering wheel and shifter.
For tips on nutrition, see my You Are What You Eat post.

Stay tuned or follow my Instagram ( @savingfacespa ) for more advice you may not have considered!

Is it true what they say?
Are you really, in fact THAT affected by what food you put into your body?
How about when it comes to skin?

The short answer is, yes.

However, I would suggest that if you are consistently dealing with acne and have already hopped onto the good skincare train, it's worth cutting back on these foods as a next step. 
Your skin will thank you later.   

You may be wondering what some beneficial foods for your skin may be as well, and you're in luck because they do exist (some are even quite tasty... hang with me until the best ones at the end). 

• Salmon (or other fatty fish) 

Great for moisture, sensitivity,  redness, acne, inflammation, and healing.

• Avocado (my personal favorite)

Healthy fats help to moisturize your skin, vitamin E heals it, and the antioxidants in it help to protect your skin from the environment and sun damage.

• Nuts & Seeds (sadly, I am allergic to tree nuts)

They have high levels of nutrients, protein, vitamins, and zinc; all help to increase your skin's protective barrier.

• Sweet Potatoes 

This has what converts to high levels of vitamin A (good for anti-aging and exfoliating) as well as gives your skin a healthy glow.

• Broccoli

Has great vitamins and nutrients, but also has been shown to help aid in preventing skin cancer and sun damage.

• Tomatoes

Carotenoids - These help prevent against wrinkling of the skin and sun damage. Pair with a fat when consuming like cheese or olive oil because they help increase your absorption. I personally enjoy tomato with cheese and crackers as an occasional treat.

• Dark Chocolate (yesssssssss!)

Who needs a reason?! But, cocoa has amazing affects on the skin. It makes your skin more hydrated from the antioxidants, an increase in blood flow and circulation (important to absorb those nutrients), and a softer skin texture. Dark chocolate is ideal to avoid the less sugar packed alternatives like milk chocolate, of course. Pairs EXCELLENT with a nice red wine ...... ;)

• RED WINE!

One of my favorite occasional indulgences. It has resveratrol which helps reduce aging as well as slow harmful free radicals (pesky skin damaging). I do not recommend drinking red wine in excess obviously, as alcohol itself is NOT beneficial, however I will admit this is my drink of choice when I do take part.

There are other great foods for your skin, but I wanted to provide you with a nice start. There is so much you can do with the foods listed above!
If you find yourself struggling, I am here for you!!!
Check out my Pinterest board Healthier Recipes to get some ideas of things I have discovered that taste great!

Until next time my friends, and happy cooking!

     xo   jacquelyn

Yes, my husband and I love to travel.

Of course it is somewhat of an obsession of ours; it is something that allows us a break in our lives and opens our minds to history, culture, learning, and (usually much-needed) REST.

But, skincare is both my profession and my passion.

So how do I keep a good skincare routine while traveling you may ask?
Girl, don't you worry, I have this traveling skincare thing DOWN. I have so many tips and tricks that I had to make a note on my phone to remind myself to not forget items.



Traveling Skin Tip #1

Travel sized EVERYTHING! If possible and if it is a trip that is two weeks or less that is.
This is important to save space, because we all know the dreaded costs of a suitcase overweight. Plus, who wants to be so overloaded that there is no room for souvenirs?! 

(Click here to have access to my Travel Kit - If you don't have the password to access please click and let me know so I can send it to you jacquelynstaggs@gmail.com )

​Traveling Skin Tip #2

For long or overnight flights (which I always suggest if it's over 8 hours - might as well get shut-eye while in air), be sure to bring some items in a medium sized clear bag on your carryon. Of course, the items must be under 3.4 ounces each to be allowed on. Security will love you if you toss the clear bag in the bin so they can see all the items clearly, and your travel buddy will be much appreciative that you don't get held up at the end for a double-check!
These items should include makeup wipes (alcohol and fragrance free), a hydrating spray, and a good moisturizer. Flying is extremely dehydrating to our skin and bodies. That's why I also make sure to drink coconut water the day before flying as well as the day of. And, I know we all must hate airplane bathrooms, but stay hydrated in-flight as well! ONE glass of wine won't hurt though.... After all, you are on vacation!!!

(I recommend Neutrogena Makeup Cleansing Towelettes. I purchase a mini Hydrating Spray through one of my partnered companies, PCA, and the Moisturizer is included in the Travel Kit listed above)

​Traveling Skin Tip #3

Do NOT skip washing your face even one night of the trip!!!
There is a reason that our skin is more sensitive and prone to breakouts while traveling. And that secret reason is...... the change in the environment and water. Our skin can be picky and it likes our routine. It will be struggling enough with these changes and there is no need to stress it even more!

​Traveling Skin Tip #4

Sunscreen! 
I don't care if you are on a cruise in Mexico or off the coast of Alaska. The truth is, you will be outside A LOT more (duh - it's vacation!). Is it foggy out? The sun actually reflects off the moisture more intensely and can slow burn you sneakily and easily. Are you on the water in the cold winter? Sun will reflect off the water. South of the equator? The sun is very strong in those parts, even on rainy days it could affect your skin.


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Any questions? Don't know where to find goodies to put in your bag?
Please reach out to me! I have lots of tips and suggestions to keep that skin glowing and healthy while you enjoy your well deserved break.

As always, I love and appreciate each and every one of you!