Latest news with #MonaGohara
Elle
29-05-2025
- Health
- Elle
Why Tanning Is Trending Again—and What Experts Really Think
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. It's 1983, and a disembodied voice is crooning: 'In St. Tropez, almost all they wear is the deep, dark color of Bain de Soleil,' while Brooke Shields wraps a record cover in tinfoil to reflect the sun's rays. All of this was before we were well-versed in the connection between UV exposure and skin cancer, including melanoma. In 2025, we know better than to tan, right? Wrong. In recent years, tanning lost some of its luster. But like red meat and low-rise jeans, tanning is back (or maybe it never really left). To many, it is a guilty pleasure. It's a cheeky cigarette after two stiff martinis. It's a shatteringly crisp McDonald's French fry. It's a 2 A.M. text message that you know you shouldn't send. 'I'm basically a solar panel, don't tell the others,' one beauty editor said. 'I'm very naughty and tan all the time—but not my face,' one celebrity makeup artist admitted. Many people still think they look better tan (one commonality between some pre-wedding brides and many WWE wrestlers? A spray tan appointment). A survey by the Orlando Health Cancer Institute found that nearly a third of adults still think that having a tan makes you look healthier. The Skin Cancer Foundation reported that between 2015 and 2025, the number of new invasive melanoma cases diagnosed increased by 42 percent. 'We see more young women with melanoma because of this tanning trend,' says Mona Gohara, MD, a dermatologist in Connecticut. Media personality Trisha Paytas once espoused the viewpoint best: 'I'd rather look good dead and tanned, than pale and alive.' Kim Kardashian seemed to throw in her own endorsement after posting a video of herself in a tanning bed that she keeps in her office. (Both Kardashian and Paytas have since qualified their views on tanning.) Win Gruber, who owns Upper East Side Tan, a tanning studio in New York, has seen his empire grow from one salon in 2023 to three locations, including one in Miami, with plans to add two more. 'Google Analytics [show] that the biggest spike for tanning in the last 10 years was coming out of the pandemic when people were stuck in their homes and wanted to get out into the sun,' Gruber says. For Gen Z, tanning may be a way to rebel. 'It's a shift against the [previous] generation, which was super anti-tanning,' he adds. The return to tanning is also part of a larger antiestablishment cultural shift. For some, distrust in sunscreen and trust in UV light may go hand in hand with distrust in vaccines and trust in raw milk. In the post-COVID era, 'there's been more pushback against some of the recommendations that come from the medical and public health community,' says Washington, DC, dermatologist Sara Hogan, MD. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. showed up to his confirmation hearing with a deep tan. According to former White House aide Omarosa Manigault Newman's 2018 memoir, Unhinged: An Insider's Account of the Trump White House, President Trump's vacation-like appearance may come from daily tanning bed sessions. In addition, some influencers and talking heads are voicing unproven doubt about sunscreen safety. The survey by Orlando Health Cancer Institute found that one in seven adults under 35 believes using sunscreen daily is more harmful than sun exposure. Tech bro whisperer Andrew Huberman has said on his podcast that chemical sunscreens may be endocrine disrupters. Influencer Nara Smith has even made sunscreen from scratch, blending coconut, beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, and zinc oxide powder into something that looks more like a creamy dessert than sun protection. 'There's not enough evidence to show that these ingredients cause harm,' says Marisa Garshick, MD, a dermatologist in New York and a spokesperson for EltaMD. 'We know that the sun causes skin cancer. Sunscreen has not been found to cause skin cancer.' As is the case with inoculation and pasteurization, we can look to the facts. For women under 50, melanoma is already the third most common type of cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Gohara frequently sees women in their 20s and 30s with melanoma. Even if you catch it early, a skin cancer diagnosis is like a dark cloud that won't go away. 'Anyone who has skin cancer at a young age has a higher risk of getting other skin cancers throughout their life,' Gohara says. If you still want to look bronze, there is one thing that won't follow you around for life—a spray tan. A version of this story appears in the Summer 2025 issue of ELLE. GET THE LATEST ISSUE OF ELLE
NBC News
13-05-2025
- Health
- NBC News
Trend alert: Why everyone's talking about exosomes in skin care
If you're on the beauty side of social media, there's a strong chance you've heard of exosomes. Though they're already a popular medical-grade treatment in Korea, exosomes are now quickly flooding the at-home skin care space in the United States. It's the latest trend on what seems like every skin care brand's radar, and because of its promise of youthful, glowing skin, reduced inflammation and better overall skin health, you may even be able to replace your current retinols and hyaluronic acid serums with it. 'Exosomes are skin care gold for brands looking to market innovation,' says Dr. Mona Gohara, a board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut. Though they're buzzy, it's worth noting that no exosome product is currently approved for cosmetic use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 'The potential is real, but regulation hasn't caught up,' says Gohara. But are exosomes really a 'cure-all'? I spoke to board-certified dermatologists to find out exactly what they can do for your skin and whether they're actually effective. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. What are exosomes? Exosomes are tiny, naturally-occurring vesicles released by nearly all types of cells — including skin cells, stem cells and platelets — that carry and protect proteins, lipids and genetic material. Think of exosomes as microscopic delivery trucks: Each one carries a 'package' of proteins, lipids, growth factors and microRNA that help regulate how nearby cells behave. As it pertains to skin care, exosomes facilitate cell to cell communication and give a pathway for skin cells to 'talk' to each other, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman. This results in them acting as messengers that deliver instructions to other cells to help calm inflammation, repair damaged tissue and increase collagen and elastin production (which usually deplete as we age, leading to sagging, wrinkly skin), says Gohara. 'Think of them as a high-tech signaling system that coordinates skin regeneration,' she says. Meanwhile, the genetic material that the exosomes carry in their 'delivery trucks,' like mRNA, influences gene expression, which essentially reprograms skin cells to behave more like younger, healthier cells, says Dr. Asmi Berry, board-certified dermatologist and beauty biohacker in Los Angeles. You'll typically find exosomes in serums because they penetrate deeper into the skin and are more stable in low-water, minimal-ingredient formulas, says Berry. While you can find them in moisturizers and creams, too, these formulations may weaken their effects, she says. Are exosomes safe and FDA approved? Exosome research is still in its early stages, and the FDA has not yet approved any exosome products. (FDA approval means the agency has determined through clinical trials that the product is safe and effective for its intended use). However, cosmetic products and ingredients (other than color additives) don't need FDA approval before they go on the market, so you can find skin care serums and moisturizers with exosomes in them. Despite this, there are still laws and regulations brands must follow. 'Because cosmetic treatments do not require FDA approval to go to the market, there is no requirement for the topical product to be proven as an effective treatment,' says Green. In fact, the FDA issued a warning in 2020 against regenerative medicine products, specifically products containing stem cells and exosomes, because people are commonly misled about their efficacy. Since skin care doesn't require FDA approval, any brand can sell products with exosomes in them; To ensure any topical you're applying or buying is actually safe, always use a reputable brand that's clear about its ingredients and where it sources them, says Green. Below, I rounded up skin care products with exosomes that are dermatologist-recommended or from brands we've previously covered. Plated's serum, which comes recommended by Korman, is made from human-derived exosomes, so it's more effective than those derived from plants or animals. It's gentle enough for all skin tones, and made specifically for those looking to target redness, inflammation and fine lines, according to the brand. Plated uses a safe and ethical process for extracting human platelets, which involves working with compliant blood banks in the U.S., according to the brand. In addition to platelet-derived exosomes, the serum has hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to help address dark spots, redness and fine lines and wrinkles, according to the brand. You can use the serum once a day (either at night or in the morning) after cleansing your skin and before the rest of your skin care routine. Make sure you give the product a few minutes to fully absorb before applying your other products. This Skinfix baume, which has a thicker texture than a serum, is a favorite of both Gohara and Hartman because it's fragrance-free and great for sensitive skin. 'It combines exosomes with ectoin, a powerful stress-protection molecule, to deeply hydrate, soothe and visibly strengthen the skin barrier, especially for sensitive or compromised skin,' says Gohara. It leverages exosomes not just for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, but for skin resilience, too, according to Gohara. Apply one to two pumps on your face, neck and chest at night after cleansing and before moisturizing. You can also use it as an overnight treatment mask in place of your nightly moisturizer, according to Skinfix. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, this serum has plant-derived exosomes that help to boost collagen production. I've used a pea-sized amount of this serum every night for the past two weeks after the brand sent me a bottle to try out, and it's had a noticeable impact on how glowy and hydrated my skin looks first thing in the morning. I combine it with a hyaluronic acid serum and a gentle retinol, which has been a great, sensitive skin-friendly combination as someone with rosacea -prone skin. You can use it morning and night — apply it on clean skin and can follow it with any preferred treatments (like retinol), moisturizer and SPF, according to the brand. This serum from Korean beauty brand Medicube is an OTC and non-invasive alternative to microneedling, according to the brand; it's a spicule serum, which means the formula has microscopic, needle-like structures that are coated in exosomes. You can't see the tiny liquid microneedles, but you'll probably feel some sharpness and tingling when you apply it, according to the brand. It penetrates your pores more deeply than a typical topical formula and has chemical exfoliants like AHAs, niacinamide and amino acids to help improve skin texture, according to Medicube. Use this at night after cleansing and follow it with a moisturizer. It's also highly rated, with a 4.4-star average rating from 2,509 reviews on Amazon. Dr. Barbara Sturm Exoso-Metic Face Serum Though the price tag is the highest on this list, this serum is an excellent option for those with mature skin who are looking to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles. It has lab-derived exosomes and growth factors paired with vitamin E to plump, firm and protect skin from free radical damage, according to the brand. You can apply it to your face, neck and chest morning and night, but let it dry for a few minutes first before following it up with a moisturizer. It has a 5-star average rating from 48 reviews at Dr. Barbara Sturm. How do exosomes in skin care work? There are two main types of exosomes skin care: in-office treatments and at-home topicals. Topical exosome formulas work well, but they don't always penetrate the skin enough to provide the best regenerative benefits (like stimulating collagen production), says Hartment. That's why many dermatologists prefer to use exosomes alongside in-office treatments like microneedling, which involves a small needled device that makes microchannels in the skin to help push serums (like exosomes, for example) deeper in, says board-certified NYC cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. 'When delivered through open microchannels, their effects, especially on collagen production, are likely more pronounced,' says Gohara. 'Medical-grade exosomes are used to supercharge healing, reduce post-procedure inflammation and stimulate collagen formation.' But again, while microneedling with exosome serums isn't necessarily unsafe, exosome treatments are not yet FDA approved for skin care use. Most over-the-counter topical exosome serums use lab-made or plant-derived exosomes, which are safe and hydrating, but they don't have the same regenerative benefits you would get from human-derived exosomes (which are typically used in doctors' offices), says Berry. Keep in mind serums with human-derived exosomes are very expensive, usually costing above $100. What is exosome therapy? Exosome therapy (usually known as exosome stem cell therapy) is an in-office treatment that involves applying exosome serums derived from human stem cells or platelets during or after skin treatments like microneedling, laser resurfacing or radiofrequency, says Gohara. For aesthetic purposes, dermatologists will often turn to dermal fibroblast exosomes, which signal the fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin, says Green. Exosomes work well when they're injected into the skin, but there are safety concerns with the practice, including scarring, irritation or infections (in addition to not enough evidence of efficacy), according to Hartman and Dr. Joshua Korman, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Korman Plastic Surgery. Dermatologists I spoke with recommend sticking to over-the-counter serums by reputable brands for at-home use, and microneedling performed by a licensed dermatologist or skin care professional. Are exosomes effective? It's no surprise brands are continuously looking for new, buzzy ingredients to incorporate into products, and exosomes manage to tap into the balance of regenerative science and natural healing. Though exosomes are promising, are they going to revolutionize topical skin care? Hartman doesn't think so. 'There isn't enough research to show that exosomes perform at the same level, or better, than highly-researched and proven regenerative skin care ingredients like retinol, peptides, ceramides and niacinamide,' he says. 'I see the most potential in medical-grade exosome skin care, especially products that use purified, lab-cultured exosomes post-treatment to support healing, collagen production and skin rejuvenation,' says Berry. 'Many mass-market products just borrow the word 'exosome.' Unless the exosomes are biologically active and clinically sourced, they're unlikely to deliver true regenerative results.' That means don't expect dramatic results from plant-derived exosomes, though they can offer gentle skin repair and hydration, says Berry. As mentioned, cosmetic topicals don't need to undergo the strict testing associated with receiving FDA approval, which makes their effectiveness unclear, says Green. Also, exosomes need specific conditions to remain stable and active, so quality control is everything — whether exosomes remain stable in topical, over-the-counter formulas is still unknown (and fairly unlikely), experts say. However, that doesn't completely diminish their effectiveness. The final verdict? Exosomes have several topical benefits, but research is still in its early stages. 'They're not miracle workers on their own, but when used correctly, especially after procedures or combined with proven actives, they can be a powerful way to enhance your skin's recovery and glow,' says Berry. How do exosomes compare to other regenerative skin care ingredients? Regenerative skin care refers to ingredients and formulas that focus on healing and rejuvenating the skin by improving elasticity, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and boosting collagen, says Korman. Exosomes are usually compared to peptides and growth factors, two ingredients that have been the stars of regenerative skin care for years. The main difference is that exosomes have a broader spectrum of benefits. 'It's like a flip phone versus a smartphone: They don't just stimulate one type of cellular activity — they're like a full care package that tells skin cells to multiply, produce collagen, reduce inflammation and even protect against oxidative stress,' says Gohara. 'They're essentially smarter and more comprehensive, but still relatively new to the commercial skin care scene.' But comparisons can't be made quite yet; researchers need to study exosomes more before determining if they're 'better' or more effective than other regenerative ingredients, says Green. Frequently asked questions How often should you apply skin care with exosomes? You can apply most exosome-containing products daily. When you apply them regularly, they can help improve hydration, barrier strength and long-term skin resilience, says Gohara. How long does it take to see results from exosomes? You'll typically see reduced redness or an increased glow within a week of using exosome-containing products regularly. However, deeper changes like improved skin texture and firmness or fewer fine lines, usually take four to eight weeks, says Gohara. 'Exosomes encourage cell regeneration as well as collagen production, and both processes take time to have a visible impact on the skin,' says Green. Can you combine exosomes with other active ingredients? You can combine exosomes with actives like retinol, peptides and vitamin C, but they aren't a replacement for gold-standard ingredients like retinoids, says Berry. That's because these ingredients work differently. 'Retinol speeds up cell turnover, peptides act as messengers to stimulate collagen and exosomes create a more supportive environment for the skin to repair itself,' says Berry. In fact, exosomes can actually make the skin more resilient and better able to tolerate active treatments. 'I wouldn't recommend replacing products with antioxidants, retinol or sunscreen (which is what I call the Holy Trinity of skin care) with exosome products,' says Hartman. Who should use exosomes? Almost anyone can use serums with exosomes in their skin care routine. The people that'll benefit most are those with mature skin since the body's ability to naturally reduce inflammation and produce collagen and elastin slows as we age, says Hartman. However, steer clear if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. 'We don't have enough safety data yet, so I recommend against using exosomes during pregnancy or breastfeeding, just like we do with retinoids,' says Berry. 'It's better to stick to proven, gentle options during this time.' Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Dr. Mona Gohara is a board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut. Dr. Corey L. Hartman is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Asmi Berry is a board-certified dermatologist and beauty biohacker at BHSkin Dermatology in Los Angeles. Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City. Dr. Joshua Korman is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Korman Plastic Surgery based in Northern California. Why trust NBC Select? I'm an updates editor at NBC Select who has covered beauty and personal care for over five years. For this article, I spoke to five board-certified dermatologists about exosomes in skin care products and what they can do for your skin. I also rounded up their recommendations for serums with exosomes to shop, as well as NBC Select editor-favorite products.
Vogue
08-05-2025
- Health
- Vogue
The Omnilux Contour Face Mask Is a Red Light Therapy Powerhouse
The most sought-after skin-care product these days isn't a potent face serum or a collagen face mask, but rather the Omnilux Contour Face Mask. Because while topical formulas can offer a lot for skin, LED face masks like the Omnilux are thought to penetrate even deeper, working on a cellular level to help firm, brighten, and even plump skin. Not surprisingly, there are quite a few of these facial tools to choose from, be it the Currentbody LED Face Mask or the TheraBody TheraFace. But the Omnilux Contour Face in particular gets quite a lot of love from dermatologists, and for good reason. While no at-home red light therapy device can compete with in-office procedures, this one really can deliver the smoother, more radiant skin it promises—with consistent and long-term use, of course. With that in mind, here's what you should know. About the Omnilux Contour Face Mask The Omnilux Contour Face Mask is a flexible, silicone mask that's equipped with 132 medical-grade lights, which emit light in two wavelengths—one red and another near-infrared. The brand has a very strong foundation for its technology, since it initially offered medical devices to dermatologists and other providers before branching out into at-home tools. For those unfamiliar with the tech, 'red light therapy uses specific wavelengths to penetrate the skin and stimulate mitochondrial activity, which boosts ATP production—essentially giving skin cells more energy to repair and regenerate,' says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Connecticut. In doing so, red light therapy can boost collagen formation, quell inflammation, and improve circulation, which together can deliver smoother skin texture and more even tone. Better yet, there's also research to back it up. 'The mechanism is well-studied, though individual results can vary based on skin type and condition,' she says. Keep in mind, though, that red light therapy isn't for everyone. 'People with photosensitive conditions or on light-sensitive medications should consult a professional before use,' says Dr. Gohara; that includes melasma, which red light therapy can inadvertently worsen. What It Is: The Omnilux Contour Face is a light therapy tool powered by red and near-infrared lights to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fade the appearance of discoloration and redness, and target other signs of aging. After four weeks, all 25 participants thought their skin felt brighter, plumper, and more hydrated. The Omnilux Contour Face is a light therapy tool powered by red and near-infrared lights to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fade the appearance of discoloration and redness, and target other signs of aging. After four weeks, all 25 participants thought their skin felt brighter, plumper, and more hydrated. Device Type: Flexible silicone mask Flexible silicone mask Target Treatment Area: Entire face Entire face Red Light Wavelength: Red 633nm, near-infrared 830nm Red 633nm, near-infrared 830nm Treatment Time: 10 minutes 10 minutes Specs: 132 LEDs, rechargeable battery controller, power supply and plug adaptors, USB-cords, head straps, storage bag How to Use the Omnilux Contour Face Mask The Omnilux Contour Face is easy to use. First, use the included charging cable to charge the remote controller. (I did this overnight.) Then, plug the silicone mask into the remote controller and slip it over your head, making sure your face is clean. Adjust the head straps to your comfort level. Begin the treatment by pressing the button on the remote controller. After 10 minutes, it shuts off automatically. My Experience With the Omnilux Contour Face Mask My skin is very demanding: As I near my late-30s, I have the luxury (I suppose) of having both signs of aging, such as fine lines and dark spots, as well as hormonal breakouts and the requisite scarring. My goal was for the Omnilux to dispatch both, which Dr. Gohara believes it can. 'Red light therapy has been shown to support collagen production and reduce inflammation, which can explain firmer, brighter skin and less redness,' she says of the brand's claims. 'The plumping effect is often related to hydration and barrier support.'
The Age
26-04-2025
- Health
- The Age
Confused about skincare trends? This is what you need to know
This story is part of the April 27 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories. Innovation in skincare generally comes in fits and starts and is often centred around breakthrough ingredients and formulas driven by scientific research. With this is mind, keep your eyes peeled for new multi-tasking products, body serums with the power of face serums, and amped-up sunscreens. Simplicity is the buzz word for skin this year, with a shift towards minimalist routines with multi-functional products (using too many products can result in sensitivity, irritation and a disrupted skin barrier). One of our favourite newcomers in this category is Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF35 ($126), a wrinkle-smoothing SPF, eye cream and concealer in one that brightens, hydrates and protects the delicate under-eye area. Sunscreens, always an essential part of any skincare routine, are also improving, especially their texture. According to US dermatologist Dr Mona Gohara, 'Brands are in continuous pursuit of silky, lightweight textures that feel luxurious, making them easier and more enjoyable to incorporate into skincare routines.' A good example is Fenty Beauty Hydra Vizor Mineral SPF 15 Moisturiser ($58), which combines moisturiser and sunscreen. On the body front, skincare ingredients are front and centre with a technique called 'faceification' – face ingredients adapted for body application. Unilever's top product-development priorities for 2025 are focusing on this using retinols and barrier repair ingredients – try The Ordinary 0.5% Salicylic Acid Body Serum ($24). This is The Ordinary's first body-care product, and it targets dry, flaky skin and dehydration. Use an exfoliating body cleanser before applying it and follow with an antioxidant moisturiser with sunscreen, paying particular attention to exposed areas. On the ingredient front, there's hope that exosomes (nanoparticles released by cells in the human body that carry molecules) might be able to send signals to skin cells to help repair and regenerate and improve skin texture. The jury, however, is still out on their efficacy. According to US dermatologist Dr Daniel P. Friedmann, 'Exosomes are just storage structures allowing for the transit of other molecules between cells, akin to that of shipping containers. Putting certain molecules or drugs in those 'shipping containers' does not necessarily ensure they will reach their appropriate destination.' Barrier-repair skincare helps support the outermost layer of the skin, sealing in moisture and keeping irritants out, and is targeted specifically at eczema sufferers or those with an impaired skin barrier. If this sounds like you, try Rationale #4 The Barrier Balm ($98), but note that going overboard with these products when you don't actually have an impaired skin barrier could set you up for other concerns, such as breakouts. ASK STEPH What is the best way to maintain my lash extensions? Firstly, keep lashes away from water for 24 hours after application and maintain the glue bond by using a product such as Nars Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover ($41). Use a spoolie to comb your lashes every morning and apply a lash-growth serum like L'Oréal Paris Clinically Proven Lash Serum ($27).
Sydney Morning Herald
26-04-2025
- Health
- Sydney Morning Herald
Confused about skincare trends? This is what you need to know
This story is part of the April 27 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories. Innovation in skincare generally comes in fits and starts and is often centred around breakthrough ingredients and formulas driven by scientific research. With this is mind, keep your eyes peeled for new multi-tasking products, body serums with the power of face serums, and amped-up sunscreens. Simplicity is the buzz word for skin this year, with a shift towards minimalist routines with multi-functional products (using too many products can result in sensitivity, irritation and a disrupted skin barrier). One of our favourite newcomers in this category is Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF35 ($126), a wrinkle-smoothing SPF, eye cream and concealer in one that brightens, hydrates and protects the delicate under-eye area. Sunscreens, always an essential part of any skincare routine, are also improving, especially their texture. According to US dermatologist Dr Mona Gohara, 'Brands are in continuous pursuit of silky, lightweight textures that feel luxurious, making them easier and more enjoyable to incorporate into skincare routines.' A good example is Fenty Beauty Hydra Vizor Mineral SPF 15 Moisturiser ($58), which combines moisturiser and sunscreen. On the body front, skincare ingredients are front and centre with a technique called 'faceification' – face ingredients adapted for body application. Unilever's top product-development priorities for 2025 are focusing on this using retinols and barrier repair ingredients – try The Ordinary 0.5% Salicylic Acid Body Serum ($24). This is The Ordinary's first body-care product, and it targets dry, flaky skin and dehydration. Use an exfoliating body cleanser before applying it and follow with an antioxidant moisturiser with sunscreen, paying particular attention to exposed areas. On the ingredient front, there's hope that exosomes (nanoparticles released by cells in the human body that carry molecules) might be able to send signals to skin cells to help repair and regenerate and improve skin texture. The jury, however, is still out on their efficacy. According to US dermatologist Dr Daniel P. Friedmann, 'Exosomes are just storage structures allowing for the transit of other molecules between cells, akin to that of shipping containers. Putting certain molecules or drugs in those 'shipping containers' does not necessarily ensure they will reach their appropriate destination.' Barrier-repair skincare helps support the outermost layer of the skin, sealing in moisture and keeping irritants out, and is targeted specifically at eczema sufferers or those with an impaired skin barrier. If this sounds like you, try Rationale #4 The Barrier Balm ($98), but note that going overboard with these products when you don't actually have an impaired skin barrier could set you up for other concerns, such as breakouts. ASK STEPH What is the best way to maintain my lash extensions? Firstly, keep lashes away from water for 24 hours after application and maintain the glue bond by using a product such as Nars Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover ($41). Use a spoolie to comb your lashes every morning and apply a lash-growth serum like L'Oréal Paris Clinically Proven Lash Serum ($27).
