167. Spring skin survival guide (with product recs!)

Summary

The Treatment Room Podcast: Episode 167 – Spring Skin Survival Guide

Release Date: April 15, 2025
Host/Author: Tessa Zali, licensed esthetician, double-certified acne expert, NASM health + nutrition coach, and skincare brand founder.

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As winter fades and spring ushers in warmer weather, Tessa Zali and her co-host delve into comprehensive strategies to help estheticians and skincare enthusiasts transition their routines for optimal skin health. This episode, titled "Spring Skin Survival Guide (with Product Recs!)", offers actionable tips, expert insights, and product recommendations to ensure your skin remains radiant and resilient throughout the season.

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1. Reassessing Exfoliation

Timestamp: 01:43 – 05:19

With the onset of warmer months, skin tends to produce more oil, necessitating a reevaluation of exfoliation practices. Tessa emphasizes the importance of balancing exfoliation based on environmental factors and individual skin responses.

Tessa Zali [03:20]: "One of the main reasons we can break out is due to something called retention hyper keratosis, which is just a fancy way of saying you are shedding a lot more skin cells than average."

The duo discusses how colder climates can dry out the skin, reducing the need for excessive exfoliation, whereas warmer, humid conditions may require increased exfoliation to manage oil production and prevent clogged pores.

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2. Adjusting Moisturizers for Oil and Hydration

Timestamp: 05:58 – 08:00

Spring demands a shift from heavy, occlusive moisturizers to lighter formulations that cater to increased oil production without compromising hydration. Tessa highlights the significance of choosing moisturizers that maintain hydration without making the skin feel excessively oily.

Co-Host [07:00]: "If your moisturizer is a little too heavy for your skin, it might be time to just get on a little bit of a lighter moisturizer."

Additionally, they emphasize the importance of layering products thoughtfully, ensuring that each layer complements the others without overwhelming the skin.

---

3. Importance of Reapplying SPF

Timestamp: 16:08 – 22:03

Reapplying sunscreen is crucial during spring as UV exposure intensifies with longer days. Tessa and her co-host stress that sunscreen applied in the morning typically only lasts up to three hours, making reapplication essential to protect against sun damage.

Co-Host [17:26]: "Just remember, your morning application is not lasting you for your lunch break, for your commute home. You should be reapplying your SPF at least once after your morning application, ideally twice."

They recommend using convenient options like SPF mists to make reapplication effortless throughout the day.

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4. Booking a Professional Skincare Appointment

Timestamp: 21:52 – 24:55

Spring is an ideal time to consult with a skincare professional to address persistent issues and reset your routine. Tessa introduces her virtual acne care program, which is now open to new clients, offering personalized plans to manage acne and improve skin health.

Tessa Zali [22:12]: "There is a lot to managing acne, and it does not have to be debilitating."

This segment underscores the value of professional guidance in navigating seasonal skin challenges and maintaining clear, healthy skin.

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5. Thorough Cleansing and Spring Cleaning Routine

Timestamp: 25:10 – 32:12

Proper cleansing becomes even more critical in spring to combat increased humidity and sweat. Tessa and her co-host advocate for a meticulous cleansing routine, including double cleansing to effectively remove impurities.

Co-Host [26:22]: "Spending a full minute massaging your cleanser on your face... ensures that the surfactants can pull the dirt and debris off your skin."

They also recommend sanitizing skincare tools and regularly cleaning products to maintain hygiene and prevent breakouts.

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6. Introducing Antioxidants

Timestamp: 32:50 – 35:28

Antioxidants play a pivotal role in protecting the skin from environmental stressors and enhancing the complexion. Tessa highlights the benefits of incorporating vitamin C and retinoids into both morning and nighttime routines.

Tessa Zali [33:02]: "Antioxidants help protect your skin from pollution and sun damage while also brightening your complexion."

She recommends specific serums like Jan Marini's Siesta and Hydrenides Brightening Serum for their efficacy in combating pigmentation and supporting collagen production.

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7. Packing Travel Size Skincare Tips

Timestamp: 35:50 – 38:57

Traveling can disrupt your skincare regimen, but Tessa offers solutions to maintain consistency. She advises preparing travel-sized versions of essential products to ensure uninterrupted care on the go.

Co-Host [36:13]: "Consistency is key. Make sure you are staying on track with your plan, even when traveling."

Tessa provides links to her Glymed Plus Professional store and Pomp Beauty storefront, where listeners can purchase travel-friendly skincare options.

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8. Extending Skincare to Neck, Chest, and Hands

Timestamp: 38:05 – 43:46

Often overlooked, the neck, chest, and hands are susceptible to sun damage and aging. Tessa and her co-host recommend incorporating these areas into your daily skincare routine to ensure comprehensive protection and maintenance.

Co-Host [40:35]: "The Revision Neck Cream is the best neck cream in the industry in my humble opinion."

They suggest using specialized products like the Revision Neck Cream and Jan Marini's Hand Cream to target specific concerns such as elasticity, pigmentation, and texture.

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9. Incorporating Cool Therapy

Timestamp: 43:55 – 47:58

Cool therapy practices like cold rolling and icing can reduce inflammation and promote lymphatic drainage, making them valuable additions to any skincare routine. Tessa demonstrates how these techniques can be seamlessly integrated for maximum benefit.

Tessa Zali [45:29]: "Inflammation is at the heart of all skin issues from pigmentation to acne to rosacea and aging."

Using tools like The Skinny Confidential's cold roller or simple ice cubes can effectively minimize inflammation and enhance skin resilience.

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Conclusion

Timestamp: 47:58 – End

Tessa and her co-host wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of adapting skincare routines to seasonal changes, emphasizing that consistent, mindful care leads to long-lasting skin health. They encourage listeners to follow their Instagram @mysdtessa for more tips and to consider professional programs for personalized skincare solutions.

Tessa Zali [48:02]: "Listen to your skin. Give it what it needs."

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to rejuvenate their skincare regimen for spring, providing both foundational advice and specialized product recommendations to achieve glowing, healthy skin.

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Notable Product Recommendations:

• Glymed Sulfur Mask: Ideal for oil control and acne-prone skin.
• Glymed Rejuvenating Peptide Mask: Hydrates and plumps dry skin.
• Glymed Cell Balm: A superior occlusive for barrier support.
• Jan Marini's Siesta & Hydrenides Brightening Serum: Antioxidant serums for brightening and pigmentation.
• The Skinny Confidential Cold Roller: Tool for cool therapy and reducing inflammation.
• Revision Neck Cream: Targets elasticity and wrinkles on the neck.
• Jan Marini's Hand Cream: Combats hyperpigmentation and improves texture.

For more detailed information and to purchase recommended products, visit Tessa's website and follow her on Instagram @mysdtessa.

Transcript

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[Co-Host]

Hi guys, welcome back to the Treatment Room Podcast.

[Tessa Zali]

I'm your host, Tessa Zali, licensed esthetician, acne expert and founder of my own skincare brand, Free Skin by Tessa so I live in this realm of skincare.

[Co-Host]

I love it. If you're listening, you probably do too too.

[Tessa Zali]

And today I want to give you a little bit of a spring refresh episode. I know we are coming out of.

[Co-Host]

Such a cold, dry, long winter. Didn't it feel so long? And getting into spring, which is I love spring and summer.

[Tessa Zali]

We had a heat wave in Orange county this week.

[Co-Host]

It was 80 degrees. I'm loving life, getting my personality back. But today I want to give you.

[Tessa Zali]

All the tips on how to reset.

[Co-Host]

Your skincare routine, refresh your skin and.

[Tessa Zali]

Really just maximize the glow and step.

[Co-Host]

Into the warmer months feeling confident and taking care of our skin.

[Tessa Zali]

So my first tip for you is.

[Co-Host]

To reassess exfoliation in your routine, how.

[Tessa Zali]

Much you're using and how much you need.

[Co-Host]

Are you satisfied with where your skin is at currently?

[Tessa Zali]

If not, you may need a little.

[Co-Host]

Bit more exfoliation as we get into these warmer months and I'll touch on why. So for example, a lot of my clients live on the east coast or.

[Tessa Zali]

In places where they have a very.

[Co-Host]

Cold, dry, extreme winter.

[Tessa Zali]

And depending on that and other lifestyle.

[Co-Host]

Factors like do they spend a lot of time outside walking to work when it's cold and windy, do they blast the heat, do they use a lot.

[Tessa Zali]

Of hot water on their skin or.

[Co-Host]

Bathe or take a lot of baths? All these things can affect how much.

[Tessa Zali]

We are drying out the skin.

[Co-Host]

And with that you may need to.

[Tessa Zali]

Pull back on exfoliation in those extreme circumstances. And the opposite is true as well.

[Co-Host]

When the weather starts to warm up.

[Tessa Zali]

Our skin tends to start to produce more oil.

[Co-Host]

So when the weather warms up, sometimes your skin will require more exfoliation and.

[Tessa Zali]

It will also be a lot more.

[Co-Host]

Tolerant of that exfoliation, more so than it was in the wintertime. And I noticed two kind of interesting phenomenons which with acne prone people, one of the main reasons we can break.

[Tessa Zali]

Out is due to something called retention hyper keratosis, which is just a fancy.

[Co-Host]

Way of saying you are shedding a lot more skin cells than average.

[Tessa Zali]

Your pore is malfunctioning, producing five to.

[Co-Host]

10 times the normal amount of skin cells.

[Tessa Zali]

Our pores are very tiny.

[Co-Host]

If you just look at your hair.

[Tessa Zali]

And look at a single strand of.

[Co-Host]

Hair, that is about how big our pore is. So it's a very tiny cavern and.

[Tessa Zali]

It easily fills up with millions of skin cells that are being shed each day.

[Co-Host]

This, along with bacteria and oil, clog the pore.

[Tessa Zali]

That's when we get an impaction, and that is the start of the acne process.

[Co-Host]

So if you notice you break out.

[Tessa Zali]

A lot more in the wintertime.

[Co-Host]

One reason could be because you are accumulating a lot more dead skin cells.

[Tessa Zali]

Dry skin on the surface of the.

[Co-Host]

Skin, and you need to keep up.

[Tessa Zali]

With that rate of exfoliation to keep the pore clear.

[Co-Host]

Now, I'd say a little bit more common with my clientele is noticing that they break out more in the spring, summer, the warmer months.

[Tessa Zali]

And you can think about this if you're acne prone.

[Co-Host]

Like, do you notice any pattern that a lot of my clients start to.

[Tessa Zali]

Produce more oil when the weather warms.

[Co-Host]

Up, Especially if they live in states that get extremely hot, extremely humid. This can really be fuel to the acne flame.

[Tessa Zali]

Because they do already have a malfunctioning pore. They are already producing too many skin.

[Co-Host]

Cells that's clogging the pore.

[Tessa Zali]

They might be very sensitive to inflammation in that pore. And then if you add an influx of oil on top of that, we might as well just strike a match.

[Co-Host]

Because it really is fuel to the acne flame. So you can think about if you've.

[Tessa Zali]

Ever noticed any patterns with your skin.

[Co-Host]

Or see as the season starts to.

[Tessa Zali]

Change, are you noticing your skin is.

[Co-Host]

Starting to feel more oily?

[Tessa Zali]

What time of the day do you notice more oil? Is it immediately upon waking? Is it a little bit later in the afternoon?

[Co-Host]

Do you only notice it right before, before bed? So kind of assessing if your skin is producing noticeable oil and assessing if.

[Tessa Zali]

You have enough exfoliation in the routine.

[Co-Host]

Now, tip number two is similar on this note of oil and hydration. So in winter time, we are all about occlusives for sure, because we want.

[Tessa Zali]

To make sure we're sealing in that hydration.

[Co-Host]

A lot of us need thicker moisture moisturizers to keep our skin happy.

[Tessa Zali]

But in springtime, your skin may require something lighter. If you are more prone to producing.

[Co-Host]

A lot of oil. So evaluate is your current moisturizer serving you and how much oil control do you need?

[Tessa Zali]

So a good way to know if.

[Co-Host]

Your moisturizer is right for you is.

[Tessa Zali]

That generally it should keep your hydration.

[Co-Host]

Levels feeling pretty good, it should keep flakes and tightness at bay, and it.

[Tessa Zali]

Shouldn'T make your skin feel a whole.

[Co-Host]

Lot more oily than normal.

[Tessa Zali]

If you're noticing that in the summertime the moisturizer is a little too heavy.

[Co-Host]

For your skin, it might be time to just get on a little bit of a lighter moisturizer. Also, I'll say on this note, we live in a culture of like really.

[Tessa Zali]

Layering a lot of products, which I do love.

[Co-Host]

I layer a lot of products myself.

[Tessa Zali]

Especially as a dry skin type.

[Co-Host]

But you may have something like a milky toner. Then maybe you are using a couple.

[Tessa Zali]

Of serums that have a little bit of weight to them. Then you use your moisturizer. Then maybe you're using a primer and sunscreen and foundation. So maybe considering all of these things.

[Co-Host]

Together and if your current routine is going to suit you in the springtime the way it was in the wintertime.

[Tessa Zali]

And I might be working on the perfect all season moisturizer.

[Co-Host]

So more details coming soon.

[Tessa Zali]

I'm so excited.

[Co-Host]

This has been a journey, guys. I know I've been saying it's coming and it is coming. I'm in the final stretch, just finalizing the packaging, which you know, has been just a whole science project in and of itself. But it's coming soon and it's going.

[Tessa Zali]

To be worth the wait.

[Co-Host]

So stay tuned. I will be first announcing the news.

[Tessa Zali]

On Instagram, so if you're not following.

[Co-Host]

Yet, follow along at my sd Tessa now. Masks are also a really great way to further control oil or even address dryness. So a lot of clients do start to tell me around this time of year they're starting to get a little bit more oily and we don't always need to like scratch the whole routine. I feel like that's a little bit of a myth that you need a.

[Tessa Zali]

New routine for spring, summer, winter. For the most part, you can really.

[Co-Host]

Stay consistent with products in your routine.

[Tessa Zali]

Especially your actives, as long as they are working for you. But some things you might want to.

[Co-Host]

Adjust are things like your moisturizer. Is it still a fit for you? Do you need some masks to help you control oil? This is one of my favorite ways to do that without changing the whole routine. One of my favorites for Anybody who's.

[Tessa Zali]

More prone to oil production is the.

[Co-Host]

The Glyd sulfur mask.

[Tessa Zali]

I will actually be mentioning a few products so I'll make sure these are.

[Co-Host]

All linked for you in the show Notes Glymed plus is the first professional line I ever retailed and it's the.

[Tessa Zali]

Line I've been consistent with the longest.

[Co-Host]

And I just could not be without it. It really makes up at least half of my routine.

[Tessa Zali]

I love Glymed for acne prone skin types.

[Co-Host]

I also love it for just healing barriers. I feel like all of their formulas are amazing for supporting the barrier because they always contain two parts. There is the active component if it's.

[Tessa Zali]

Something like an acne control product, but they always have balance in the formula.

[Co-Host]

They always have soothing ingredients to counteract.

[Tessa Zali]

The actives and make sure it's not too harsh.

[Co-Host]

So in this way the formula is.

[Tessa Zali]

A lot more substantial sophisticated than just.

[Co-Host]

A like a prescription you would get.

[Tessa Zali]

That is really just the active ingredient.

[Co-Host]

So back to my point, the Glymed sulfur mask is one of my all time faves. All skin types can use it, but especially if you are prone to oil inflammation or acne or rosacea, this is.

[Tessa Zali]

A great mask for you.

[Co-Host]

It has sulfur and kaolin to kill.

[Tessa Zali]

Bacteria, remove dead skin cells and absorb excess oil. You can use it all over the.

[Co-Host]

Face if you are oily or you.

[Tessa Zali]

Just want the benefits of the mask all over. But you can also sort of just.

[Co-Host]

Use it in areas that you need it. Say your routine is really sufficient for.

[Tessa Zali]

You, but you get oily in the T zone. You can just apply the mask there.

[Co-Host]

You only need to wear it for.

[Tessa Zali]

About five to seven minutes. You should rinse it off before it.

[Co-Host]

Feels dry and tight and you can use it one to two times a week. Now I do want to address my dry skin peeps, my dry skin fam. I definitely fall into this category and.

[Tessa Zali]

There are probably some of you out.

[Co-Host]

There like me who are just like.

[Tessa Zali]

Bone dry all year long.

[Co-Host]

I've never been oily in my life. It's like almost something I aspire to.

[Tessa Zali]

Because I've never experienced it and I.

[Co-Host]

Am just always trying to get moisture whenever I can because my skin is so dry.

[Tessa Zali]

And I also live in California where.

[Co-Host]

I'd say the climate is more mild to moderate. I don't have extremely cold or snowy weather in the winter time. It does get hot in the summer, but we don't have too much overwhelming humidity. So it's pretty balanced here for the most part.

[Tessa Zali]

And I tend to keep My routine.

[Co-Host]

Pretty consistent, except I will sometimes swap moisturizers or play with masks and exfoliation a little bit differently. But I do need to support my dry skin all year, all year long. And something I'll also point out is just we tend to use a lot of either air conditioning or heat in.

[Tessa Zali]

The colder months, but a lot of.

[Co-Host]

AC in the spring and summer.

[Tessa Zali]

So this can also dry the skin out. So I do recommend always supplementing with.

[Co-Host]

Hydration and one of my favorite little.

[Tessa Zali]

Treatments just to keep my barrier really healthy and happy.

[Co-Host]

Because I am acne prone, I do.

[Tessa Zali]

Require more exfoliation and actives daily to keep my acne managed. But I have to reinforce hydration.

[Co-Host]

I have to really support my barrier.

[Tessa Zali]

Otherwise I just run into more limitations.

[Co-Host]

So my favorite little combo, I'm actually wearing this as we speak, is a.

[Tessa Zali]

Dollop of the glymed rejuvenating peptide mask. This mask is so cooling.

[Co-Host]

It's like a pink jelly mask. It smells like roses. It's very just therapeutic and incredible for the skin.

[Tessa Zali]

Really absorbs into dry, thirsty skin and helps to plump the skin, give it.

[Co-Host]

A firmer appearance and it just feels.

[Tessa Zali]

Really cooling and amazing on the skin.

[Co-Host]

So I use this probably three times a week. But lately I have been combining just.

[Tessa Zali]

A pea size amount of glymed cell balm. Glymed cell balm is my favorite occlusive. I've tried Aquaphor, I've tried Vaseline. They're not the same. There's nothing like cell balm. It is a very healing and moisturizing occlusive.

[Co-Host]

I just had to pause the podcast because my pitbull is snoring so loudly.

[Tessa Zali]

So if you, if you heard some puppy snores, it wasn't me.

[Co-Host]

Anyway, back to my favorite barrier combo.

[Tessa Zali]

So it's the rejuvenating peptide mask with.

[Co-Host]

A pea sized amount of glymed cell balm. This just gives it that extra barrier support.

[Tessa Zali]

You can use the rejuvenating peptide mask.

[Co-Host]

On its own, but if you are extra dry and you leave a hydrating mask on your skin and it gets.

[Tessa Zali]

Absorbed quickly because your skin is super thirsty, then your skin does start to.

[Co-Host]

Seek moisture from the outside. So that's when it can actually pull moisture out of your skin. So if you're extra dry, I would.

[Tessa Zali]

Combine a little bit of the glymed.

[Co-Host]

Cell Balm Occlusive with this mask.

[Tessa Zali]

That way you can like relax and wear the mask for.

[Co-Host]

You could wear it 20 minutes, you could wear it for an hour and.

[Tessa Zali]

Your Skin will feel different, it'll feel like new.

[Co-Host]

It will feel so restored when you.

[Tessa Zali]

Rinse this combination off. And you can use this combination if.

[Co-Host]

You'Re acne prone, if you're oily for.

[Tessa Zali]

A little extra barrier support.

[Co-Host]

But I rely on this heavily because.

[Tessa Zali]

I am so dry.

[Co-Host]

Okay, my next tip is not new, but I have to say it, and.

[Tessa Zali]

I'm going to say it in a new way you haven't heard.

[Co-Host]

So tip number three is to reapply your spf.

[Tessa Zali]

You've heard this before. I know I sound like a broken.

[Co-Host]

Record, but spring really brings out stronger.

[Tessa Zali]

UV exposure and longer days. So we're outside more and more, more.

[Co-Host]

Exposed to the sun, especially if you.

[Tessa Zali]

Have a commute when you're driving to work, on your lunch break, when you're coming home from work. And I think we have become great out applying our SPF in the morning.

[Co-Host]

But I have to ask, are you reapplying your SPF during the day? I think this is a big thing I need to coach clients on that. They're usually not doing that is just.

[Tessa Zali]

As important as the morning application because.

[Co-Host]

Sunscreen really lasts three hours max. So think of all your investing in your skincare routine and use that as a reminder to really make sure you're.

[Tessa Zali]

Reapplying the SPF to protect your investment, protect your skin.

[Co-Host]

There's really no point in investing in.

[Tessa Zali]

A brightening serum and a retinoid if you're not wearing sunscreen and you're not reapplying it. So just remember, your morning application is not lasting you for your lunch break, for your commute home. And as a general rule of thumb, you really should be reapplying your SPF at least once after your morning application, ideally twice.

[Co-Host]

I feel like there might be a lot to ask for, but I really just want the best for you. And this is probably the smallest change.

[Tessa Zali]

That you could make right now without changing much. That's really going to give you a big difference in how pristine your skin looks. This is also going to keep inflammation at bay.

[Co-Host]

And one of the biggest discoveries I find with new clients is that often.

[Tessa Zali]

Their barrier is more impaired than it should be and they're breaking out more than they should be because they are not using sunscreen regularly. And surprisingly, this is a big contributor to inflammation.

[Co-Host]

Now, if you are wondering how the heck do you reapply your spf? One of my favorite and I think the most convenient ways to reapply SPF.

[Tessa Zali]

Is to use my favorite SPF mist from zinc. It over this mist is incredible. It feels so hydrating on the skin. It is the only SPF mist I.

[Co-Host]

Have found that a distributes a very even mist and two does not sting my skin or my eyes.

[Tessa Zali]

I have ocular rosacea, very sensitive eyes.

[Co-Host]

I've like literally almost gotten into an.

[Tessa Zali]

Accident and had to pull over because.

[Co-Host]

I had a sunscreen that was stinging.

[Tessa Zali]

My eyes and I had a really.

[Co-Host]

Bad flare up where they were watering uncontrollably and it was like, oh, it.

[Tessa Zali]

Just, it was terrible.

[Co-Host]

So I love zinc it over it is an all mineral SPF and it's.

[Tessa Zali]

Great for acne prone skin sensitive skin. It comes in a full size and a mini size.

[Co-Host]

So you literally have no excuse not.

[Tessa Zali]

To reapply your spf. Also a little hack. If you're really happy with your sunscreen.

[Co-Host]

You can just bring it in your bag. And what I do is put a.

[Tessa Zali]

Display disposable sponge in a Ziploc bag.

[Co-Host]

With my sunscreen and you can use that as just like if you wear.

[Tessa Zali]

A tinted spf, use that as a way to just touch up your makeup and your SPF at the same time. So lots of options for you.

[Co-Host]

And.

[Tessa Zali]

I do want to call out SPF on the chest and the body.

[Co-Host]

So what I try to do year round because it is often sunny here, even in the colder months, is I replace my body moisturizer in the morning with spf. So I get the professional spf, the.

[Tessa Zali]

Professional size of SPF from Glymed.

[Co-Host]

Plus their moisturizing SPF feels amazing. It feels like a moisturizer. And I will just obviously make sure my body is dry after the shower and then I will reapply my SPF.

[Tessa Zali]

Because I noticed a lot more pigmentation and sun damage accumulating on my neck and my chest as I age.

[Co-Host]

I'm almost 35, so I really find this is an area that can get a lot of sun exposure. And we're going to be wearing a lot of different like necklines, maybe bathing suits during the warmer months. So it's really great to just make sure this area is protected. And I find if you put the SPF on before your clothes, you get.

[Tessa Zali]

A thorough application and you're not going.

[Co-Host]

To get any weird like tan lines or yeah.

[Tessa Zali]

Any sun damage from your shirt moving around.

[Co-Host]

Tip number four is to book a professional. Spring is the perfect time to hit the reset button and put your put.

[Tessa Zali]

Your skin in the hands of an.

[Co-Host]

Acne expert such as myself, especially if.

[Tessa Zali]

This is a condition you've been struggling.

[Co-Host]

With for a while. It does not have to be debilitating.

[Tessa Zali]

You can take control of your skin and acne. You do not have to suffer forever. But there is a lot to managing acne.

[Co-Host]

I think a lot of people would be surprised and I love being able.

[Tessa Zali]

To educate people one on one and really give them all the tools they need to succeed with their skin. Along with education and awareness of things that can affect acne and how you.

[Co-Host]

Can effectively manage it because it can be controlled.

[Tessa Zali]

Spring can also be a confusing transitional time for skin again. We're coming off the heels of winter.

[Co-Host]

When our skin is dull and dehydrated.

[Tessa Zali]

A lot of people struggle with barrier issues. And then on top of this, you.

[Co-Host]

Are adding that influx of oil.

[Tessa Zali]

So what can happen is that oil.

[Co-Host]

Gets trapped underneath all the layers of dead, dry skin cell buildup.

[Tessa Zali]

This accumulates in the pore.

[Co-Host]

It can cause blackheads and breakouts.

[Tessa Zali]

Blackheads are actually the most mild form of acne.

[Co-Host]

But as blackheads sit there or sink.

[Tessa Zali]

Deeper into the pore, they can become whiteheads, they can become pustules or even cysts.

[Co-Host]

So this is the perfect time to.

[Tessa Zali]

Get ahead of the oil, get ahead of the seasonal change and really refresh your routine and start the clearing process.

[Co-Host]

To just get ahead of the whole mess. I have just opened my acne care program up to new clients for for.

[Tessa Zali]

The spring and summer.

[Co-Host]

So if you're just not quite sure what your skincare routine should be, you.

[Tessa Zali]

Don'T know exactly how to start an intentional skincare plan. You don't know which actives are the best for you or your skin type.

[Co-Host]

You don't know how often you should.

[Tessa Zali]

Use them or how to start incorporating them.

[Co-Host]

If you want to learn how to.

[Tessa Zali]

Eat for your skin goals. My best selling virtual acne care program is again now open to new clients as of April. And exciting news. I've even added a new maintenance program.

[Co-Host]

For previous acne care clients who want the comfort of staying, you know, connected with me and who want to just stay on track with their goals, have the accountability and have new resources, including.

[Tessa Zali]

My new meal plan.

[Co-Host]

Really, really exciting. I think I'm going to do an.

[Tessa Zali]

Episode all about that.

[Co-Host]

But lots of fun new fresh resources.

[Tessa Zali]

To keep you excited about managing your.

[Co-Host]

Skin and stay on top of your goals. Okay, tip number five is to focus on spring cleaning your face.

[Tessa Zali]

So with the increase in humidity and sweat, breakouts can creep in, congestion can.

[Co-Host]

Creep in, blackheads can creep in. If that's you, one thing you can start doing right now is to make.

[Tessa Zali]

Sure you are focused on proper and thorough cleansing morning and nighttime.

[Co-Host]

So a lot of us can kind of just breeze through our cleanse.

[Tessa Zali]

We kind of just slap on cleanser.

[Co-Host]

Rinse it off, call it good, and.

[Tessa Zali]

We really need to do better.

[Co-Host]

I want you to spend a full minute massaging your cleanser on your face. If it's a cream cleanser, apply on dry skin. If it's a gel cleanser, apply.

[Tessa Zali]

Generally, the best way to use it.

[Co-Host]

Is to add a lot of water to your hand, get it really frothy and foamy.

[Tessa Zali]

I created a double cleansing set including two cleansers.

[Co-Host]

I have my Undo, which is a cream balmy cleanser.

[Tessa Zali]

You apply it on dry skin and slowly add water. Low foam should be applied with very wet hands.

[Co-Host]

You really want to get it foamy.

[Tessa Zali]

And frothy in your hands first before.

[Co-Host]

Before you even apply it.

[Tessa Zali]

To get the most out of the cleanser and the surfactants and make sure.

[Co-Host]

They are able to actually pull the dirt and debris off your skin and off your face. The next thing I will tell you about cleansing is you want to focus.

[Tessa Zali]

On all areas of the face.

[Co-Host]

And a lot of us tend to.

[Tessa Zali]

Kind of just do like circular motions all over and call it good. What I Recommend is spending 15 seconds.

[Co-Host]

Per area of the face, 15 seconds.

[Tessa Zali]

On your forehead, 15 seconds on your.

[Co-Host]

Cheeks, and spending time on the lower face, the chin, the neck.

[Tessa Zali]

Oftentimes we think this is breakouts in this area are just due to hormones, but it can actually be in part.

[Co-Host]

Due to insufficient hygiene and cleansing of the area.

[Tessa Zali]

And lastly, the T zone. This is where most of us accumulate.

[Co-Host]

A lot of buildup.

[Tessa Zali]

Even if you were to go invest.

[Co-Host]

In the best hydrafacial in your city.

[Tessa Zali]

If you're prone to buildup in this.

[Co-Host]

Area, which most of us are, you will notice blackheads coming back even a couple days after they've been extracted. So to really keep this at bay.

[Tessa Zali]

As much as possible, you need to be cleansing in this area really thoroughly. Just using circular motions, massaging the cleanser for at least 15 seconds in the T zone.

[Co-Host]

I think this area just gets skipped.

[Tessa Zali]

Because it's kind of awkward to just.

[Co-Host]

Like spend time cleansing your nose. But I really make an effort to.

[Tessa Zali]

Spend enough time in this area because.

[Co-Host]

It is kind of a, what I call a hot spot or like a.

[Tessa Zali]

Problem area for me.

[Co-Host]

We all have areas that we're just.

[Tessa Zali]

More prone to congestion.

[Co-Host]

So just kind of taking note of.

[Tessa Zali]

That and spending more time cleansing these areas.

[Co-Host]

You get congested easily, will really pay off for you.

[Tessa Zali]

And this is of the utmost importance.

[Co-Host]

To cleanse your skin before and directly after workout. So all my gym people, gym rats.

[Tessa Zali]

I'm talking to you. It is best to go into a workout with clean skin and then make sure you are cleansing immediately after.

[Co-Host]

I feel like I'm like the cleansing police and you might not like me when I'm telling you this, that you.

[Tessa Zali]

Need to bring your cleanser to the workout and like take the time and wash.

[Co-Host]

Try to wash your face right after.

[Tessa Zali]

The workout, even if it's at the gross gym bathroom.

[Co-Host]

I'm so sorry, but it will, it.

[Tessa Zali]

Will make a difference in your skin. Like this can be make or break.

[Co-Host]

For acne prone people and we can just get very lax with it and you know, leave the workout, take our time driving home.

[Tessa Zali]

Then maybe you are making a meal when you get back because you're hungry.

[Co-Host]

And we just get caught up. So really try not to do that. If you can just cleanse directly after.

[Tessa Zali]

The workout, you can even throw on a hydrating mask, then rinse it off when you get home and then do.

[Co-Host]

Your full routine in the comfort of home.

[Tessa Zali]

But most important thing is to not leave sweat on the skin.

[Co-Host]

Spring, summer is also fungal acne season. I treat, I treat fungal acne throughout the year, but the warmer months, it.

[Tessa Zali]

Really revs this condition up. So if you're prone to fungal acne.

[Co-Host]

Even if you're not, anyone can get.

[Tessa Zali]

It if they get a yeast imbalance in their skin and this is one.

[Co-Host]

Of the biggest triggers for it.

[Tessa Zali]

So bring your cleanser to the gym and you will thank me later. And on this note of spring cleaning, spring clean your skincare.

[Co-Host]

I actually just did this before I recorded this episode. It took less than 10 minutes. I put my AirPods in, listened to some music, I put my gloves on, my little vinyl gloves and then I just took my like main skincare routine, I put it in the sink and then what I do is I love getting the rubbing alcohol spray from cvs. This makes sanitizing so easy.

[Tessa Zali]

And I am kind of a clean.

[Co-Host]

Freak, but I really like this. Just for sanitizing everyday items like my laptop, my phone or my skincare. Think of how much we are touching our skincare. I don't think you need to do this every single day but like every one to two weeks I like to do this. It doesn't take long. I just put all the skincare in the sink, I spray it down with.

[Tessa Zali]

The rubbing alcohol and then I just.

[Co-Host]

Take a clean cloth and I just wipe everything off and this just keeps.

[Tessa Zali]

My routine feeling super fresh and new and sanitary. Like sometimes you don't need a new.

[Co-Host]

Skincare product, you just need need to.

[Tessa Zali]

Sanitize the one you have.

[Co-Host]

And yeah, I feel like this just keeps it feeling clean and nice so.

[Tessa Zali]

I can really enjoy my routine. Otherwise the products can get kind of.

[Co-Host]

Grubby and just accumulate a lot of dust as well. So I like to do that.

[Tessa Zali]

And I also recommend just doing a.

[Co-Host]

Little spring cleaning, a little walkthrough of your skincare lens collection and your makeup.

[Tessa Zali]

And just tossing any expired skin care.

[Co-Host]

Sunscreen, mascara and lipstick.

[Tessa Zali]

Expired skincare and makeup can actually be.

[Co-Host]

A sneaky trigger of perioral dermatitis. And I know my podcast demographic is the PD demographic. US women ages like 20 to 40 can be very prone and high risk to dermatitis and pd. So although it's not the root cause, expired mascara and cosmetics has been linked to pd.

[Tessa Zali]

So just making sure you're tossing those products out, not keeping them too too.

[Co-Host]

Long is really healthy for you, for your skin, for your eyes, everything.

[Tessa Zali]

So just a good thing to do. Tip number six is to introduce antioxidants into your rout. Antioxidants make you glow.

[Co-Host]

They help you hold on to your collagen.

[Tessa Zali]

I am big on collagen banking, trying to increase collagen production and hold on.

[Co-Host]

To what I have by doing treatments.

[Tessa Zali]

And definitely making sure my daily morning.

[Co-Host]

And nighttime routine has antioxidants like vitamin C and retinoids.

[Tessa Zali]

Antioxidants help protect your skin from pollution and sun damage while also brightening your.

[Co-Host]

Complexion so you can think of it as your morning shield underneath your SPF.

[Tessa Zali]

And at nighttime, just a great way.

[Co-Host]

To boost cell turnover and really get the maximum results out of your skincare routine. Some of my favorite antioxidant serums include Jan Marini's Siesta and also love the Siesta Oil control for more oily skin types.

[Tessa Zali]

Also absolutely love Hydrenides Brightening serum especially for those prone to pigmentation and melasma. Face Reality's Antioxidant Serum is a great starter antioxidant product for those who are.

[Co-Host]

Acne prone and who have had issues with vitamin Cs or L ascorbic acid in the past. A lot of new clients I talk to want to use vitamin C but they are traumatized, they've had a bad experience so it's not always the first.

[Tessa Zali]

Product I recommend for them.

[Co-Host]

But when you are feeling like your skin is in the place For a next step, I really like to get.

[Tessa Zali]

My clients on an antioxidant serum to combat inflammation and help to minimize pigmentation and scarring. Lastly, Love Glymed Plus's retinol as a.

[Co-Host]

Gentle retinoid for all skin types. And I just find this retinoid is so well received because it is a microencapitation encapsulated retinoid and it's very easy to tolerate off the bat. Even if you are experienced with retinoids.

[Tessa Zali]

Or you've used like a tretinoin in the past.

[Co-Host]

I think this is this is a great professional product to swap over to.

[Tessa Zali]

That will not cause excess irritation in the skin. I recommend to start using it twice.

[Co-Host]

A week, adding an additional night every one to two weeks based on your skin's tolerance, working up to nightly usage. Tip number seven is to pack your.

[Tessa Zali]

Travel size skin cares. If you are going on any kind.

[Co-Host]

Of trip, you're going out of town.

[Tessa Zali]

Don'T be the client texting me that you forgot your skin care, asking what dupes I can recommend to you at the drugstore.

[Co-Host]

It's okay if you did this. I still love you, I'll still help you out. But really for the most part I.

[Tessa Zali]

Find there's no dupe for the products I am recommending that are professional treatment products.

[Co-Host]

If I really felt like, you know, there were easily accessible dupes that would.

[Tessa Zali]

Help maintain your routine, I feel like.

[Co-Host]

Just the general public would have a lot of an easier time with skincare. I feel like the products I work.

[Tessa Zali]

With and recommend are really unique and.

[Co-Host]

Designed to give you a different caliber of result and consistency is key.

[Tessa Zali]

We want to stay on track with your plan. So what I recommend is doing a.

[Co-Host]

Little checklist of all your products before you leave for that trip.

[Tessa Zali]

I provide all of my clients with.

[Co-Host]

A customized trip chart so you know.

[Tessa Zali]

Exactly what products you need on a daily and weekly basis.

[Co-Host]

So just double check the chart before you leave.

[Tessa Zali]

Bring the chart with you, make sure.

[Co-Host]

You check it even before you leave the hotel room.

[Tessa Zali]

You don't want to leave anything behind.

[Co-Host]

And if you are in the market for any travel size skin care, I have three ways you can purchase which.

[Tessa Zali]

Also supports me and this show. And I love you so much if.

[Co-Host]

You shop from me even if you don't. Obviously love you but I always appreciate the support.

[Tessa Zali]

So first off I have my Glymed Plus Professional store.

[Co-Host]

They have a range of travel size products from cream cleansers to gentle cleansers, toners and they also have a wide range of Options for serums, masks and.

[Tessa Zali]

Moisturizers and sunscreens in travel size.

[Co-Host]

Next I have my Pomp Beauty storefront. We have a good range of travel size on there.

[Tessa Zali]

You can also shop Glymit on the Pomp Beauty storefront. Most of the people who access my.

[Co-Host]

POP Beauty storefront are clients because that is the portal that we use where you can just get a range of of professional brands from me and you get them all with free shipping over $100. So you can always check that link out even if you are not a client. I will link both of these in the description box. And last but not least, I recently launched travel size of my signature Double Cleanse set. So the full size that is called the reset.

[Tessa Zali]

The travel size is called the Jet set.

[Co-Host]

So you can shop the jet set.

[Tessa Zali]

On free skin by Tessa.com it's also a great way to try out my.

[Co-Host]

Cleansing duo if you're nervous about making the commitment to the full size. Which by the way, my full size cleansers, they are professional back bar sizes so you're really getting a good amount.

[Tessa Zali]

Of product and good value.

[Co-Host]

But if you want to try the mini sizes that are 1.5 fluid ounces, you can always shop those on my website.

[Tessa Zali]

Tip number 8 Don't forget the neck, the chest and the hands.

[Co-Host]

These are areas that obviously just get more exposed in spring and summer.

[Tessa Zali]

Even when you are doing, you know, things that aren't intentionally tanning outside, we.

[Co-Host]

Actually accumulate the most sun damage through.

[Tessa Zali]

Incidental sun exposure exposure which is things.

[Co-Host]

Like walking out to get your package when you are driving etc so we really want to keep these areas in mind and I feel like our face.

[Tessa Zali]

And the main skincare routine gets like all the attention.

[Co-Host]

But these are the areas that do start to show damage as we age. So I have a few favorites to make sure that these areas are getting.

[Tessa Zali]

The same love as your face.

[Co-Host]

Don't forget to cleanse, hydrate and and.

[Tessa Zali]

Don'T skip SPF in these areas either.

[Co-Host]

My favorite top three products for the.

[Tessa Zali]

Neck, chest and hands. Okay, starting with neck.

[Co-Host]

The Revision Neck Cream is elite. I love Revision.

[Tessa Zali]

This is a brand I actually recently.

[Co-Host]

Brought on this year.

[Tessa Zali]

Obsessed with their tinted sunscreen, the Intelli shade. Might as well link that one for you guys as well.

[Co-Host]

But the Revision Neck Cream is the best neck cream in the industry in my humble opinion. It's the only neck cream I am confident enough about recommending because some of them just really don't do anything. And it's like I just spent 150 for what? You don't see that much of a difference, but I truly do see a.

[Tessa Zali]

Difference in both fine lines and the tightness and elasticity of my neck when.

[Co-Host]

I am consistently using the Neck Deform.

[Tessa Zali]

Which is Revision's neck cream. It contains eight peptides to target elasticity.

[Co-Host]

And wrinkles and it feels just so silky and elegant. Comes in a very chic black bottle.

[Tessa Zali]

And I'm just obsessed.

[Co-Host]

That is one product I've been integrating in my mid-30s just to really stay mindful of this area.

[Tessa Zali]

Next up is Brilliant Tone from Glymed plus, and this is the brand's strongest.

[Co-Host]

Tyrosinase inhibitor and Glymed has quite a few. They really do specialize in brightening and I love Daily Clarifier for general maintenance and hydration. I love using this on a lot.

[Tessa Zali]

Of teen and younger clients.

[Co-Host]

It's a great hydrating product at a.

[Tessa Zali]

Nice price point that does help to.

[Co-Host]

Prevent pigmentation, but if you're really serious.

[Tessa Zali]

About tackling pigment when it's already visible, Brilliant Tone is the way to go.

[Co-Host]

It contains Kojic acid, Arbutin and Bearberry, so really incredible for brightening, enlightening stubborn.

[Tessa Zali]

Pigmentation such as freckles and melasma, both.

[Co-Host]

Of which I can struggle with if I'm not on top of it.

[Tessa Zali]

So I will definitely be using my Brilliant tone. And you can use this on the.

[Co-Host]

Face of course, but I actually love.

[Tessa Zali]

Using this product on my forearms, my neck and my chest. These are the areas I'm most prone to freckling.

[Co-Host]

So I have been more consistent with.

[Tessa Zali]

Brilliant Tone and I'm loving the results. Last but not least, Jan Marini's Hand Cream. I am not out here recommending neck or hand creams like it's my job.

[Co-Host]

I could, but I just don't if I'm really not impressed, but I am.

[Tessa Zali]

So impressed by this hand cream.

[Co-Host]

Jan Marini put this product through a.

[Tessa Zali]

Four month clinical trial. Go ahead and google Jan Marini hand.

[Co-Host]

Cream before and after.

[Tessa Zali]

The transformation is pretty astounding.

[Co-Host]

I wish I could show you on a podcast, but just take my word for it.

[Tessa Zali]

If you're in the market for a hand cream that produces visible results.

[Co-Host]

This cream has retinol, vitamin C and.

[Tessa Zali]

It'S just packed with antioxidants and beneficial ingredients for hyperpigmentation and texture, the two.

[Co-Host]

Most common complaints people tend to have with their hands. So I've also put this product on.

[Tessa Zali]

My bedside table so that I see.

[Co-Host]

It and I use it before bed.

[Tessa Zali]

Because I am dog Tired when I am ready to get into bed. I've done my whole skincare routine. You know, I don't want to dilly.

[Co-Host]

Dally, but I really need to keep using this hand cream if I want to avoid needing hand botox in my later years. So I'll just leave you with that tip number nine. You know, I am all about switching the pillowcases more often, especially in the spring. Summer, warmer weather means more sweating, more buildup. So if you can keep a stack.

[Tessa Zali]

Of clean pillowcases in your drawer wherever.

[Co-Host]

You put your pajamas.

[Tessa Zali]

That way when you're changing in your into your pajamas, you can just remember.

[Co-Host]

Okay, I need to change out my pillowcase.

[Tessa Zali]

If you are acne prone, this is.

[Co-Host]

A small habit that really makes a big difference.

[Tessa Zali]

I don't think it has to be.

[Co-Host]

Silk, satin, anything fancy. It can be just a plain cotton pillowcase. Make sure you are using free and clear detergent, no dryer sheets or softeners.

[Tessa Zali]

And you will be doing your skin a big favorite.

[Co-Host]

My last tip for you is to implement cool therapy.

[Tessa Zali]

So inflammation is at the heart of all skin issues from pigmentation to acne to rosacea and aging.

[Co-Host]

So as the weather warms up, keeping your skin cool and keeping those melanocytes, those pigment cells chilled out is really.

[Tessa Zali]

Going to help minimize inflammation and keep your skin skin tone nice and even. I love both cold rolling and icing. The Skinny Confidential makes my favorite cold roller. It's lasted me years.

[Co-Host]

It is incredible quality.

[Tessa Zali]

I do sanitize it with my little.

[Co-Host]

Rubbing alcohol spray and I love to.

[Tessa Zali]

Use that in the morning time to help depuff my face and encourage lymphatic drainage. If you are acne prone, I think the best cold therapy for you is actually using ice directly on the skin instead of a cold roller. So what you'll want to do is just take some filtered water and fill.

[Co-Host]

Up an ice cube tray with the water.

[Tessa Zali]

You can also use Dixie cups and.

[Co-Host]

Put them in the freezer.

[Tessa Zali]

Then I would recommend bringing the ice.

[Co-Host]

Cube with you in a little cup to the bathroom.

[Tessa Zali]

That way you see it on your counter and when you get out of the shower or after you wash your.

[Co-Host]

Face, you can just immediately ice your face.

[Tessa Zali]

You don't have to think about it. You don't have to go downstairs. You're removing all obstacles and excuses and.

[Co-Host]

You have it right there.

[Tessa Zali]

This is one of those steps that's really crucial for acne management and it is a step that's just as important as anything else in your routine.

[Co-Host]

It is the fastest this thing to fall off, people forget about it, they travel, they think it's not important, and it can actually really be a helpful.

[Tessa Zali]

Tool for minimizing and preventing breakouts. So try to keep that consistent in your routine at least once a day.

[Co-Host]

And you will really see the benefits.

[Tessa Zali]

And all my clients tell me this.

[Co-Host]

Step just feels so good and anything that feels good is going to help you stay more consistent with your routine and look forward to it and just keep it as a part of your.

[Tessa Zali]

Day that you enjoy. Which it should be your skincare routine.

[Co-Host]

It should be part of self care that you look forward to. It really shouldn't be a chore.

[Tessa Zali]

So anything you can do that feels.

[Co-Host]

Good is just going to help you stick with it.

[Tessa Zali]

That is a wrap on today's episode.

[Co-Host]

I hope these tips helped you feel.

[Tessa Zali]

Refreshed and ready to take on spring. As always, listen to your skin. Give it what it needs. Don't be afraid to recruit some professional.

[Co-Host]

Help and make sure to follow along on instagram @mysdtessa. For more I post my skincare favorites.

[Tessa Zali]

I post Skin and Acne Friendly Eats alongside an inside look at my business.

[Co-Host]

Fashion, beauty, fitness and personal healthy lifestyle. If you love today's episode, don't be shy.

[Tessa Zali]

Leave it a little review, share it with a friend, maybe one that also loves skin care or who wants to get more into skin care.

[Co-Host]

And don't forget, your skin is beautiful at every stage and season. I love you guys. I will talk to you in the next episode.