4 Things You Should Know About Radiant Defense

 

True innovations begin with a need – and the inspiration to solve for it. Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields were motivated to create their latest innovation by a common request from women of all ages and skin tones who were beyond thrilled with their daily Regimen results, yet still liked to use post-Regimen products that instantly perfect skin for a more polished look. The Doctors challenged the R+F team of scientists to create a dermatology-inspired skincare product that instantly perfects while protecting one’s natural glow with powerful, good-for-skin ingredients. The result? New Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid Broad Spectrum SPF 30.
The last step in your skincare routine, this multitasking complexion protector and perfector is available in six luminous shades, which can be worn alone or blended together to create customized color. A tinted “Glow Guard” that helps protect the skin you’ve earned, Radiant Defense instantly blurs imperfections without clogging pores or causing breakouts.
Here are four things you should know about Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid, the first DERMACOSMETICS product from Rodan + Fields.

1. It pairs perfectly with every Regimen — for even better results. When used with the REDEFINE Regimen, Radiant Defense helps minimize the look of fine lines and pores for an even healthier-looking complexion. For REVERSE users, Radiant Defense will even out tone and diminish the appearance of dark marks for a uniform, radiant finish. As part of the UNBLEMISH Regimen, Radiant Defense will instantly conceal the look of existing acne and post-acne marks. Finally, SOOTHE users will see blotchy skin instantly transformed into an even-toned, balanced-looking complexion.

2. It’s powered by the RD3 complex. Formulated with R+F’s proprietary RD3 complex, Radiant Defense provides three types of defense: environmental defense, barrier defense and photo defense. It helps neutralize the harmful effects of environmental aggressors, repair skin’s natural moisture barrier to avoid dry, irritated skin and helps protect against early signs of aging caused by UVA and UVB rays and disperses infrared light, preventing harmful effects of exposure.

3. It’s best applied with the Radiant Defense Liquid Brush. With luxuriously soft fibers that glide across skin and a tapered design that allows for precise application along every facial contour, the Radiant Defense Liquid Brush was designed to ensure flawless application of Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid. For luminous skin, add a pea-sized amount of product to the back of your hand, lightly tap the brush into it, then apply to your face in an outward motion until you’ve achieved your desired level of coverage.

4. It’s earning rave reviews.In a user study, 97% of participants felt Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid helped improve their skin immediately, and 94% noticed their skin looked healthier immediately. In the same study, 91% of participants noticed an instant reduction in visible redness, 89% noticed a reduction in visible pores and 86% noticed improvement in perfecting discoloration.*

Learn more about Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid and how you can get your most radiant skin yet. Trust your skin’s glow to the Doctors who know skin best.

Is Running Making you Look Older?

It's scary to think the bounce action of running might age our skin.

By Julia Brucculieri

 LIFE MAGAZINE

It can help you de-stress and sleep better, keep your brain sharp and make your body physically stronger. But a slew of news reports, articles and studies have questioned whether strenuous forms of exercise like running can actually make you look older.

Enter “runner’s face.”

Runner’s face is the theory that the repeated bouncing or pulling of the face that happens during running can lead to a gaunt or thin facial appearance, explained Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology in New York City. A lack of fullness in the face is often associated with aging, and plastic surgeons have long advertised runner’s face as something that can be “fixed” or “treated” with cosmetic procedures like botox and fillers.

The idea that running can make a person’s face appear older is a little confusing, especially given that experts have suggested it may actually help improve skin. We spoke to dermatologists to get to the bottom of it, once and for all.

Where did the idea of “runner’s face” come from anyway?

The whole idea of runner’s face appears to be the result of some fairly dated research, according to Dr. Rachel Nazarian of Schweiger Dermatology Groupin New York City. She said that older studies published in medical journals claimed extremely intense exercise can cause detrimental effects on the skinbecause of increased free radical production or oxidative stress.

As Nazarian noted, your body produces free radicals when it’s under pressure or strain. To combat the effects of those free radicals, your body employs antioxidants, either those produced inside your body or consumed as part of your diet. Oxidative stress is defined as “a disturbance in the balance between the production of [free radicals] and antioxidant defenses,” according to research published in the journal Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental.

“When you cause any type of free radical damage or oxidative stress on the skin, it does cause signs that we [attribute] to signs of aging, such as the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which can lead to sagging,” Nazarian said. “That is sort of the scientifically backed theory on how it could potentially lead to [runner’s face].”

A lot of people, Nazarian said, will be able to combat the potential damage from excess free radicals with a balanced diet high in antioxidants, including plenty of leafy greens and fruits. Topical antioxidants, such as vitamin C serums, are also beneficial for the skin in conjunction with a good diet, she added.

The sun and air pollution are definitely something to consider.

While oxidative stress can result from high-intensity workouts, it can also come from pollution in the air, Nazarian explained. In that sense, runners who run outdoors may face a sort of double whammy of oxidative stress.

In fact, Kanchanapoomi Levin told HuffPost that dermatologists associate signs of aging in the skin of frequent runners with “other more likely causes, rather than the bouncing from your sneakers hitting the pavement or treadmill.” Those more likely causes include sun damage or volume loss in the face due to weight loss.

“Overexposure to the sun’s damaging radiation can lead to uneven pigmentation, thickened skin, wrinkles, loss of volume, pre-skin cancer and skin cancer, so it’s important to protect your skin with good sun protection and exercise in moderation,” she said.

If you spend a lot of time running outdoors, make sure you always, always, always wear sunscreen and protective clothing to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.

But that up-and-down movement is nothing to stress about.

In simple terms, Kanchanapoomi Levin stated, there is “no such thing as runner’s face.”

Nazarian agreed. “This up-and-down movement from running is not going to cause you to age faster,” she said, noting that she wouldn’t “attribute the idea of runner’s face to the motion in the skin.”

“What we’re looking at is on a much smaller, microscopic level and what’s happening with the cells,” she said.

Both dermatologists noted that exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and can actually have plenty of positive effects on the skin.

For one thing, exercising ― particularly cardio ― increases your circulation and “delivers a greater amount of oxygen and nutrients to your skin, which helps repair the skin and increase collagen production,” Kanchanapoomi Levin said. This enhanced blood flow can help with cell regeneration and the removal of toxins.

The sweat your body releases during a good workout can also be good for the skin, Kanchanapoomi Levin said. Perspiration “is part of our body’s natural method of removing waste” and its byproducts, like urea and ammonia, she noted.

“Sweating also activates the production of sebum, a natural lipid-based oil that is secreted from the sebaceous glands. Both urea and sebum can soften and moisturize the skin and in fact, urea is an ingredient added to many skin care moisturizers and products to enhance hydration of the skin,” she said.

There are also studies that show sweat can protect us against bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli, Kanchanapoomi Levin said.

You still need to wash the sweat off your face, though, as “sweat mixed with dirt, makeup and pollution can accumulate and then clog pores, triggering or worsening acne or folliculitis on the body,” she added.

Finally, exercise can lead to a decrease in the level of the stress hormone cortisol in your body, Kanchanapoomi Levin said. “This can be beneficial for many chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne.”

The key, as with many things, is moderation.

Nazarian agreed that in the medical world, there are reports and studies that seem to conflict. Older reports claim too much running or exercise may cause skin aging, while other evidence suggests exercise can make skin look younger.

But the findings do align, she said.

“The thought now is that [running and exercise] do have some benefit for skin, but if you’re going to really play it safe, maybe you don’t want to push yourself so much to the point that you’re unable to keep up to the demand,” Nazarian said.

“It’s just like saying a little bit of wine is good for you, a lot of wine is bad for you. We’re learning more and more that everything needs to be in moderation. I find that with exercise, it kind of fits into that same pattern,” she said. “You want to push yourself a little bit, you want to feel like your heart rate is going up, you want to put some effort into it, and when you do that, you trigger enough helpful pathways in the body.

“But if you push yourself too much, all the time, your body may actually kind of take it to a different direction, and it can’t keep up, and you build up a lot of the negative cells, and you’re not repairing as much as you would had you just taken it down a notch.”

Nazarian and Kanchanapoomi Levin agreed it’s all about finding a happy medium, which they said typically means increasing your heart rate to about 40 to 60 percent of your maximum heart rate three to five times a week.

“Everyone should be exercising, because not only is that helping the inside of their body and keeping their heart [and] tissue healthier, you are going to trigger more of the anti-aging pathways than not,” Nazarian said.

Eat More Pumpkin!

Pumpkin is packed with fruit enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) which increase cell turnover, to brighten and smooth the skin. Pumpkin contains antioxidant Vitamin A and Vitamin C to help soften and soothe skin and boost collagen production to prevent the signs of aging. 

Don't Be a Turkey

The only turkey neck at your Thanksgiving table this year should be the one you are eating! Our AMD MD Roller is amazing at tightening the skin around the neck, chin and decollate area over time.  It is my favorite skincare tool hands down! And - it lasts for a year! 

5 Skincare Products to Pack for Holiday Travel

Preparing for a trip this winter? These five Rodan + FIelds products are perfect for seasonal travel. Bring them along with your favorite R+F Regimen, and you’re good to go.

1. Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid
Even in winter, your skin needs protection from the sun and elements. If you’re vacationing in a high-altitude destination like a ski resort or a warm-weather destination, you’ll need to be even more vigilant. Radiant Defense, our new finishing step to every Rodan + Fields skincare Regimen, includes broad-spectrum sunscreen to defend against UVA and UVB rays. Plus its six sheer tints instantly blur imperfections and add a luminous glow.

2.Rodan + Fields ENHANCEMENTS Active Hydration Serum
Cold, dry winter air is drying to your skin. So is indoor heat — and airplane-cabin air. Apply this hydrating serum underneath your moisturizer in the morning and before your night cream in the evening — and definitely before you step onto a plane. In U.S. clinical study, Active Hydration Serum increased skin’s hydration level by 200% after just one use and kept it there for eight hours.

3. Rodan + Fields REDEFINE Intensive Renewing Serum
There’s always room for these revitalizing skincare capsules, even if space is tight. Instead of packing the entire jar, take just the number you’ll need for your trip. That way, no matter where you are, you’ll continue on your way to more refined, firmer-looking skin with fewer visible wrinkles.

4. Rodan + Fields Active Hydration Bright Eye Complex
The thin, fragile skin around the eyes is often the first place to show signs of stress and fatigue — and who hasn’t experienced those during holiday travel? Our hydrating eye cream instantly illuminates and soothes the eye area, and over time, improves the appearance of dark circles and under-eye puffiness.

5. Rodan + Fields ESSENTIALS Instant Makeup Remover Wipes
Our new premium wipes easily remove even long-wear makeup. Formulated with skin conditioners and moisturizers, they leave skin nourished — and, as a bonus, can go into your carry-on, since they’re not a liquid, cream or gel.

Prepare Now for Holiday Party Skin

The holiday social whirl is fast approaching. Is your skin ready for all of those party selfies? If the answer is no, not to worry. This is the perfect time to commit — or recommit — to your skincare routine. Start now and follow this advice, and you’ll see results in time to P-A-R-T-Y this holiday season.

P is for Protect and Perfect. Defend your complexion against the elements with our groundbreaking Glow Guard: NEW Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid offers protection against the effects of environmental aggressors, dryness and UV rays. Start using it now for lasting results over time — and instant perfection. Available in six flexible shades, this tinted multitasker immediately gives your skin a polished look, blurring imperfections and camouflaging redness.

A is for Add a few enhancements. These products add a few minutes to your routine, but the results are totally next-level. Try our AMP MD Derma-Roller with your REDEFINE or REVERSE Brightening Regimen; its micro-exfoliating tips help your skin absorb products more effectively. Treat your body to our ultra-hydrating moisturizer, Active Hydration Body Replenish, for visibly softer and smoother skin. Apply R+F Lash Boost nightly for the appearance of longer-looking lashes.

R is for Regimen dedication. The easiest way to ensure your skin is gorgeous for the holidays is to care for it all year. If you aren’t already using the Rodan + Fields Regimen that addresses your skin concerns, get started now! And don’t forget your lips and eye area. Use these products as directed and your skin will always be party-ready.

T is for Take care of yourself. Healthy eating, sleeping and hydration habits often go out the window during the holidays. Make a commitment to yourself now that you won’t let that happen this year! Nourish your skin from the inside out with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and drink lots of water. Next, promise yourself that you will get enough sleep over the coming weeks. When you’re fatigued, your skin  looks tired — which is exactly what you don’t want.

Y is for “You time.” The holidays are fun, but they can also be stressful, which doesn’t do your skin any favors. Before life gets crazy — and especially when it does — squeeze in a yoga class, read a book or get a massage. When you’re calm and happy, your skin will look the same.

3 Reasons Your Acne-Prone Skin Needs Hydration this Winter

While breakouts are often more frequent during the (hot, sticky) summer months, when oil-production can shift into overdrive, cold weather can also do a number on acne-prone skin. According to our Director of Product Education, Mary Radford, RN, acne doesn’t hibernate in the winter – so read on to discover the top three reasons hydration is key.

1. Dry winter weather can cause clogged pores. According to Mary, “cold weather can decrease surface moisture and a build-up of dry skin cells can clog pores and lead to more irritation and blemishes.” This means that keeping blemish-prone skin hydrated throughout the winter is as important — and maybe even more so — as it is the rest of year. One of the most effective ways to increase hydration levels is to add Active Hydration Serum to your UNBLEMISH Regimen. We know this might sound a little scary if you have oily skin, but believe it or not, this oil-free, non-comedogenic (aka non-pore-clogging) serum will not cause breakouts and can actually help balance your complexion. It may sound counterintuitive, but hydration is often what oily skin needs. To whisk away dry skin cells that can contribute to winter dullness, Mary also recommends gently massaging ENHANCEMENTS Micro-Dermabrasion Paste over wet skin two to three times a week.
2. Oily skin overcompensates when it’s dry. When skin becomes dry courtesy of the weather and harsh indoor heat, oil glands are stimulated to coat and protect your skin. This boomerang effect usually leads to over cleansing, which exasperates the oil imbalance. The good news is that when used with the UNBLEMISH Regimen, Active Hydration Serum helps balance oil, dryness and blotchiness. Apply it after cleansing and toning, and before UNBLEMISH Dual Intensive Acne Treatment, for skin that looks balanced, smoother, softer and more radiant.
3. Hydration dissipates faster in cold weather. The same dry air that causes all of the above issues can also affect the products you use to stay hydrated. Active Hydration Serum instantly raises skin hydration by 200% after just one use and keeps it there for up to eight hours* — and doesn’t feel heavy on your skin. UNBLEMISH users who added Active Hydration Serum to their Regimen as part of an 8-week clinical study achieved the following results:

– 100% had more radiant skin
– 81% had softer skin
– 75% had smoother skin
– 88% had less oily skin (t-zone)
– 81% had less dry skin
– 75% had less blotchy skin

Active Hydration Serum can be used with your UNBLEMISH Regimen up to twice per day to help your skin look and feel its best – start by adding it to your AM Regimen and if you need more hydration, incorporate it into your PM routine. Make sure to follow up with the Oil Control Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 20, as you need both the hydration and the sun protection it offers. And while it’s perfectly fine to apply your products with clean hands, Mary sends a friendly reminder for the rest of the day: Don’t touch your face. Constant pressure and friction from holding your phone can trigger acne or irritation that ultimately leads to breakouts, so go hands-free and spare your skin any extra influences.

Why Adding Retinol to Your Beauty Routine Will Change Your Skin

What is retinol?

The vitamin A derivative is a go-to for a reason: it comes in a great consistency and is very popular in our Intensive Renewing Serum and works to reverse common skin concerns. It combats all the signs of aging in addition to signs of hormonal imbalance. Retinol kicks your cell turnover into overdrive, exfoliating the skin — a move that can effectively reduce acne, fade dark spots, and iron out fine lines and wrinkles. As it is exfoliating, retinol helps to unclog pores and shrink the oil glands. When your oil glands shrink in size, less acne is produced. 

Holiday Gift Sets - For a Limited Time!

Our holiday gift sets are still available!!  For a limited time only, my friends! They come packaged in these beautiful silver boxes - all you have to do is add a bow and I promise it will be THE favorite gift under the tree! Buy one for yourself too!

Super Serum Set - Increase hydration by 200% while visibly improving wrinkles!

Ultimate Renewal Set - Nourish your lips and eye area to visibly smooth, moisturize, and improve these delicate areas that are prone to dryness this time of year.

Holiday Hydration

Skincare Fact: Our skin loses more than 25% of its ability to hold moisture in the winter. Also a fast: Dry skin ages faster. That is why the Dermatologists behind Rodan + Fields, invented Active Hydration Serum. It is like a glass of water for your face and I am obsessed! 💦 It raises skin’s hydration level by 200% after just ONE use and maintains continuous hydration all day. All skin, regardless of type, can benefit from more hydration. Younger looking - younger acting - and more radiant skin. 🙌🏻 Get it in one of our fabulous holiday bundles now 🌲 for the best gifts ever- and don’t forget yourself!