Happy Leap Year! Leap forward or go back to basics in skincare?

On this February 29th, as we “leap” further into the many advances in skin care, I wonder if sometimes going “back to the basics” (not the brand, just the concept!) is the way to go.  With respect to anti-aging, one of the best pieces of advice I got from a highly acclaimed dermatologist (hint hint she is often photographed in Vogue Magazine :) ) is to incorporate the following in your skin care routine:

1.  Sunscreen everyday.  Ok we’ve all heard this over and over.  A broad spectrum rain or shine, warm or cold.  She recommended Ocean Potion (see my Beauty Beat review Ocean Potion Sunscreen ).
2.  A good Cleanser with a high concentration of Glycerin.  Check out one of her …

A Match of Muscle Relaxants: GABA vs Botox

botoxThere are many topical skin care products on the market that compare themselves to Botox.  I certainly would prefer using a cream to a (poison-like!) injectable but, logically, it does not seem likely to compare.  How can you relax the muscles on the face and smooth out wrinkles with an over-the-counter skin care product? 

Gamma Aminobutyric Acid, or GABA, is a substance found in the human nervous system that can block signals between nerves and muscles.  Skin care companies that use GABA in their products claim it topically relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkles on the face.  This has been referred to as “Botox in a Jar.”  GABA coagulates when it dries and, subsequently, “grips” the skin in …