How to Start on Tretinoin (Retin-A) and Retinol

My Routine for Starting on Tretinoin (Retin-A) Cream

I recently started using a prescription tretinoin cream, a generic version of Retin-A (Stieva-A). Tretinoin is probably THE most popular and evidence-supported retinoid (vitamin A derivative) ingredient in skincare. It works as an acne treatment, for anti-aging (both wrinkles and uneven pigment) and a generous handful of other skin issues. I’ve had a lot of requests for advice and tutorials …

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Foundation Clumping Science, and How to Fix It

Foundation Compatibility (with Video)

You might’ve had the experience where you apply your foundation over primer/moisturiser/sunscreen etc., and then a little while later your foundation’s gone clumpy. This is foundation incompatilibility. What’s happening, and what can you do to avoid it? Let’s talk about the science behind foundation! [Note: I would recommend watching the video in addition to reading the post, if you’re usually …

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How to Use Comedogenicity Ratings

rabbit-ear-test-comedogenicity

You’ve probably seen a comedogenicity chart like these ones (and the one further down the page) before, rating different ingredients on their ability to cause pimples. Supposedly you check the ingredients list of your product against the comedogenicity list. If it has highly comedogenic ingredients, it will cause pimples, if it doesn’t, then it won’t. It’s simple, systematic and foolproof, right? …

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Skincare Chemistry: How to pick out humectants

humectant

I recently posted an excerpt from The Lab Muffin Guide to Basic Skincare on my Instagram and Facebook (which is one of many useful tables in my eBook by the way, and it’s packed full of information on the super important fundamentals of science-based skincare – although I’m obviously biased since I wrote it and put all my best tips …

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Video: How to Get Glowing Skin: All About Exfoliation!

Video: How to Get Glowing Skin: All About Exfoliation!

I’m a huge fan of exfoliation. It’s one of the easiest things to incorporate into your skincare routine that has really big effects, and pretty much anyone with any skin type can benefit from some form of exfoliation. I made a free Essential Guide to Exfoliation (click to download) all about exfoliating, and I’m giving an overview of the key …

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DIY Quick-Dry Scrunchable Shower Sponge on a Stick

DIY Quick-Dry Scrunchable Shower Sponge on a Stick

I’ve mentioned before that I love my netting-sponge-on-a-stick – it’s great for washing conditioner off your back, and for reaching your feet when you’re too sore to bend over (thanks, dance comp training). I’ve been using a sponge on a plastic handle from Daiso (which cost a whole $2.80) but recently it looks like they’ve decided to discontinue it, with …

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It’s The Lab Muffin Guide to Basic Skincare!

The Lab Muffin Guide to Basic Skincare

I’ve been really nervous and excited about this for the last few weeks, and the day is finally here: I’m launching my first eBook, The Lab Muffin Guide to Basic Skincare! As you all probably know I’m a massive skincare nerd, and I love researching and writing about it (in case you couldn’t tell from the last 7 years of …

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How to Use Instagram as a Skin Diary

How to Use Instagram as a Skin Diary

As I discuss in my upcoming eBook, The Lab Muffin Guide to Basic Skincare, it’s important to keep a record of your skincare routine and skin condition. It’s a fantastic way to help you figure out what’s actually working for your skin, and track the products and ingredients that your skin reacts to. One really useful tool that you can …

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