When it comes to all things anti-aging, you’ve seen it all—from eye creams to SPF, face masks to spa treatments. Things can get pretty overwhelming—and sometimes, the products you’re using could unknowingly be filled with pore-clogging ingredients and chemicals. Named to Modern Luxury’s “It” List, Progressions continues to the best hair salon and spa in Bethesda. We believe in taking care of ourselves—the healthy way. With the help and expertise of our Level 2 Esthetician Angela, we’ve rounded up the best (and safest) products and tricks to effectively take care of yourself, from the inside, out. Read on to feel the glow!
PREVENTION IS KEY
An anti-aging focus can start as early as age 18 (by applying a moisturizing eye cream, not to mention a daily dose of SPF). However, an exact age is an individual matter. Your lifestyle is a large factor (think: dry climates and sunny, waterfront properties), and preventative practices should always be a part of your at-home skin care routine, but by around age 27, we’d recommend shifting your focus to anti-aging specifically. (At age 27, there becomes a decrease in collagen and elastin.) Your cellular turnover rate decreases by about one-third around age 27-32—so starting early gets you ahead of the game (and maintains your fab visage).
And, did we mention a daily dose of SPF? Our go-to is from Coola Suncare. From sunscreens to sunless tans, Coola Suncare is endorsed by the American Lifeguard Association, earning our trust on the days when the sun just can’t seem to quit.
For SPF and complexion coverage, we’ve been reaching for Eminence Organics Sun Defense Minerals, especially in the evening hours when the sun is still shining. It’s a brush-on sunscreen made with hypoallergenic, non pore-clogging minerals that provide water-resistant SPF 30 sun protection. (Bonus: darker shades can be used as a bronzer!)
OUR COMPLIMENTARY SKIN ANALYSIS
To get the best of the best in a customized skin care (and specifically anti-aging, if you’re at that age), we’d recommend a complimentary Skin Analysis. During a Skin Analysis, you’ll understand your skin from a subjective stance. We’ll discuss your skin concerns, why you’re here, and craft a game plan for you—which includes both in-salon treatments and at-home regimens.
With a quick cleanse of your skin, we’ll remove any makeup or debris. This gives us a chance to see your skin in its natural, bare state, looking at your texture, elasticity, micro-pigmentation and more. We’ll talk about your current products, what you’re loving and what you can part with, and your lifestyle habits (the good and the bad). We might recommend a new night serum or facial cleanser. We want you to leave feeling like you can have your cake, and eat it too—with a tailor-made plan to keep your skin youthful, radiant and exactly how you want it.
EASY AT-HOME TIPS
We get it—keeping up with the latest and greatest in all things skin care can seem overwhelming. Here, we outline the tried-and-true, easiest (yet most effective) ways to practice anti-aging.
- SPF. (Duh.) Always, and at any age.
- Watch your caffeine and alcohol intake—your diet plays a huge role in your skin.
- Take time to take care of yourself.
- Meditate, breathe or relax. (Especially during peak stress times.)
Give it love! Your skin is your body’s largest organ—and just like the rest of you, it should be treated with lots of love. This can mean anything from the above practices, to moisturizing daily—to an extra-special facial.
GET GLOWY IN 30 MINUTES
For the best in hydration and medical-grade care (with absolutely zero downtime), a Hydrafacial couldn’t be a better option. Hydrafacials are a non-invasive, multi-stop treatment that gives immediate results and long-term benefits without pain or irritation. We combine hydradermabrasion exfoliation, a chemical peel, painless extractions and antioxidants, including a blend of hyaluronic acid and peptide-rich serums—yes, all in 30 minutes. Perfect for special events or long-term benefits (including but not limited to counteracting sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles, dehydration and oily and congested skin), we consider a Hydrafacial to be one of the easiest (and most effective) ways to get the skin results you want—no matter your concern.
DON’T FORGET YOUR HANDS
While anti-aging is usually about your face—we’re making the case for proper hand care, too. Your hands do a lot for you, and they could seriously benefit from a hydrating massage treatment. (It’s all connected anyway!)
OUR TWO MUST-HAVES
If you haven’t noticed already, we consider SPF to be an essential. Our favorite pick is Hydrafacial’s UV Daily Smart Sunscreen—created by the experts of Hydrafacial, this SPF gives you clinically-tested and dermatologist-approved protection—with your skin’s radiance and natural glow in mind.
If you’re thinking of adding something new to your routine, consider a hyaluronic serum, or an effective vitamin C and E blend (including all those nourishing antioxidants) to keep your skin glowingly healthy, from the inside out. If we had to pick a favorite, it would be Eminence Organics’ Citrus and Kale Serum, hands down. (Trust us, it feels as luxurious and healthy on your skin as it sounds!)
To book your complimentary Skin Analysis or try out any of our must-have anti-aging products, stop by—we can’t wait to see you glow.
