July 2024 - Pores X

10 Surprising Reasons You Have Dry and Chapped Lips (and How to Fix Them!)

Ever wonder why your lips feel like the Sahara Desert? You’re not alone! Let’s dive into the top 10 reasons why your lips might be dry and chapped—and how to fix them. Spoiler alert: licking them won’t help!

1. Weather Conditions: Mother Nature’s Mischief

Cold Weather: When winter arrives, your lips can turn into ice-cold parchment paper. Cold, dry air sucks the moisture right out of your lips.

Wind: Wind can be like a thief in the night, stealing moisture from your lips and leaving them high and dry.

Sun Exposure: Yes, the sun is great, but too much UV exposure can scorch your lips, leading to dryness and chapping.

Fix: Arm yourself with a lip balm containing SPF. Your lips will thank you!

2. Dehydration: H2-Oh No!

Not drinking enough water? Your lips are paying the price. When your body is dehydrated, it shows—starting with your lips.

Fix: Drink more water! Carry a stylish water bottle as your new accessory. Hydrated lips are happy lips.

We recommend the slick looking A5 or A6 Memo Water bottles from Bespoke Lane and Co

3. Lip Licking: The Vicious Cycle

Think licking your lips helps? Think again! Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips even drier than before.

Fix: Break the habit. Keep a hydrating lip balm handy instead of using your tongue.

Pores X now stocks the Activita Lip Kit range. Full of hydrating qualities to live your lips hydrated!

4. Allergic Reactions: Unwanted Love Bites

That new lipstick or food might be your lips’ nemesis. Allergens can cause irritation and dryness. Most common types of food that causes dry lips are; nuts, dairy and shellfish.

Fix: Identify and avoid the culprit. Opt for hypoallergenic lip products and pay attention to food triggers.

We recommend Almay Hypoallergenic colour and care Lip Oil-in-stick

5. Medications: Side Effects May Include…

Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and acne treatments, can dry out your lips faster than you can say “chapstick.”

Fix: Consult your doctor. They might suggest alternatives or additional treatments to keep your lips moisturised.

6. Vitamin Deficiencies: The Nutrient Void

Lacking in B vitamins? Your lips could be sending out an SOS. Vitamin deficiencies can lead to dry, cracked lips.

Fix: Ensure your diet includes vitamin-rich foods. Think leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains.

7. Skin Conditions: The Usual Suspects

Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or cheilitis don’t just make your skin dry—they target your lips too.

Fix: Manage your condition with the help of a dermatologist. Specialised treatments can help keep your lips soft and smooth.

8. Mouth Breathing: Catching Flies and Drying Lips

Breathing through your mouth, especially during sleep, can dry out your lips faster than a desert breeze.

Fix: Try to breathe through your nose. If allergies or congestion are the issue, address those first. And yes, a humidifier can be your best friend at night.

Try out a portable mini humidifier from Big W if you are always on the go.

9. Chemical Irritants: The Sneaky Culprits

Ingredients in some cosmetics, toothpaste, or mouthwashes can irritate your lips.

Fix: Read labels carefully. Avoid products with alcohol, fragrances, or other known irritants.

10. Poor Lip Care: The Neglect

Not using lip balm or choosing one that doesn’t provide enough moisture can lead to dryness.

Fix: Invest in a high-quality lip balm. Look for ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and oils that lock in moisture.

How can Pores X help?

The team at Pores X have created an extra add on to your next facial treatment with a Lip Treatment. We apply a moisture and product rich lip mask followed by a lip care ultrasound treatment. Your lips will looking juicy and fresh in no time!

Dry and chapped lips are not just a minor annoyance—they can be downright painful and unsightly. But with a little knowledge and the right habits, you can keep your lips luscious and kissable year-round. Remember to stay hydrated, protect your lips from the elements, and avoid common irritants. And please, for the love of soft lips, stop licking them!

Until next time, keep those lips hydrated and smiling!

The Ultimate Guide to Preventing and Reducing Back Acne

Ah, back acne, or as we like to call it, “bacne.” It’s like that unwanted guest who crashes your pool party. Just when you think you’re ready to show off that new swimsuit, bam! There it is, stealing the spotlight. But fear not, we’ve got the ultimate guide to help you show bacne the door!

Why Do We Get Back Acne?

Before we tackle the how, let’s chat about the why. Back acne happens for the same reasons as facial acne – it’s all about those pesky clogged pores. Here are some common culprits:

  1. Excess Sebum Production: Your oil glands go into overdrive, clogging pores faster than you can say “bacne.”
  2. Bacteria: Propionibacterium acnes bacteria love to hang out on your skin and cause inflammation.
  3. Hormonal Changes: Puberty, periods, pregnancy – you name it. Hormones can turn your back into a breeding ground for acne.
  4. Sweating: Sweat + oil + bacteria = a recipe for clogged pores.
  5. Friction and Pressure: Tight clothing and backpacks are like the wingmen of bacne – always there to cause trouble.
  6. Diet: Sugar and dairy might make you smile, but they can also invite acne to the party.
  7. Genetics: If mum or dad had bacne, you might too.
  8. Stress: Because why wouldn’t stress make everything worse?
  9. Poor Hygiene: Not washing off the day’s grime is an open invitation for acne.
  10. Comedogenic Products: Some skincare and haircare products can clog pores faster than you can say “whoops.”

How to Prevent and Reduce Back Acne

Now that we know the why, let’s get into the how. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you banish bacne for good.

Skincare Practices

Regular Cleansing: Wash your back daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Look for ones with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide – your new BFFs.

Exfoliation: Use a gentle exfoliating scrub once or twice a week. Just don’t go overboard; your back isn’t a cheese grater.

We recommend using CheekyGlo Back Scrub to get to those hard to reach places

Moisturise: Keep your skin hydrated with a non-comedogenic moisturiser. Dry skin can rebel and produce even more oil.

Avoid Heavy Products: Thick lotions and oils are a no-go. Stick to lightweight, oil-free options.

    Lifestyle Changes

    Shower After Sweating: Whether it’s a workout or a summer stroll, rinse off that sweat pronto.

    Wear Loose Clothing: Breathable fabrics like cotton are your friends. Tight clothes are just asking for trouble.

    Laundry Hygiene: Wash your workout clothes, bed linens, and towels regularly. Oil and bacteria love to linger.

    Diet: Cut back on high-glycemic foods and dairy if they seem to make things worse. Go for a balanced diet – your skin will thank you.

      Medical Treatments

      Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help. For severe cases, you might need a prescription.

      Oral Medications: Antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin might be on the table if things are really bad.

      Professional Treatments: Chemical peels, laser therapy, or light therapy can work wonders. Leave these to the pros.

      How can Pores X help?

      At Pores X, we provide specialised Back Acne treatments in the comfort and privacy of our clinic. Our state-of-the-art PoreTech machine, combined with potent products, effectively targets and treats back acne. Paired with an advanced LED light therapy session, you’ll be on your way to clear, acne-free back in no time!

      Back acne doesn’t stand a chance against your newfound knowledge. Armed with these tips, you’re ready to say goodbye to bacne and hello to clear, confident skin. Now, go rock that swimsuit with pride!

        The Power of Aloe Vera for Your Skin

        Hello, beautiful people! ???? Today, we’re diving into the world of aloe vera, that spiky, green superhero of the plant world. You’ve probably seen it chilling in a pot at your grandma’s house or flaunting its healing powers in your favourite skincare aisle. But do you really know all the skin-tastic benefits of this marvellous plant? Well, buckle up, because you’re in for a bumpy, soothing, and hydrating ride!

        Why Aloe Vera is the Beyoncé of the Plant World

        Let’s get real. Aloe vera is the Beyoncé of plants—always glowing, versatile, and practically perfect in every way. It’s not just about its soothing gel that feels like a mini spa day for your skin. Oh no, aloe vera is a multi-tasking diva that’s got all your skin woes covered. Whether you’re battling breakouts, sunburns, or just want to look forever young, this green goddess is here to save the day.

        No More Sahara Desert Skin!

        Forget about lotions that make you feel like a greaseball. Aloe vera is your hydration hero, absorbing quickly and leaving your skin as soft as a kitten’s belly. Its mucopolysaccharides (yes, that’s a real word!) help to lock in moisture, so you stay dewy and fresh all day long.

        Heal the Burn, Baby!

        Had a little too much fun in the sun? Aloe vera to the rescue! It’s like the firefighter for sunburns, cooling things down and helping your skin heal faster than you can say, “Pass the aloe!” Plus, its antioxidants fight off those pesky free radicals that speed up aging. Sunburn today, youth forever!

        To further aid sun damanaged skin, you must try our Ice Infusion Treatment! Jammed pack full of active ingredients to help smooth your skin.

        Acne’s Worst Nightmare

        Zits got you down? Aloe vera is about to turn your frown upside down! It’s packed with anti-inflammatory goodies that reduce redness and swelling. Plus, it contains salicylic acid, which is like a bouncer for your pores, kicking out the bad stuff and keeping your skin clear.

        At Pores X, almost all of our products contain Aloe Vera. Our Retinol serum is the must-have product to fight acne and is available exclusively at our store.

        Wrinkles? What Wrinkles?

        Dreaming of skin as smooth as a baby’s bum? Aloe vera is your fountain of youth. It boosts collagen production and improves skin elasticity, making those fine lines and wrinkles a thing of the past. Say goodbye to “aging gracefully” and hello to “aging like a fine wine.”

        Bye-Bye, Hyperpigmentation!

        Dark spots making you feel like a Dalmatian? Aloe vera’s got your back. Thanks to compounds like aloesin, it helps lighten those pesky spots and even out your skin tone. Now you can glow like the sun without looking like a polka-dotted pop star.

        Soothe That Itch

        Got eczema, psoriasis, or just plain old itchy skin? Aloe vera is like a soothing lullaby for your skin, calming inflammation and speeding up healing. It’s your skin’s personal therapist, ready to talk it through any irritation.

        A Few Things to Keep in Mind

        While aloe vera is amazing, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first to avoid any allergic reactions. And remember, if you have a serious skin condition, consult our friend staff at Pores X before adding new products to your routine.

        Aloe vera isn’t just a pretty plant—it’s a skin-saving superstar. From moisturising to healing and anti-ageing, it’s got everything you need to keep your skin looking fabulous. So go ahead, give your skin the gift of aloe vera, and let the compliments roll in!