A Glaucoma specialist on Lash Serums
I've had MANY people ask me over the years: Are lash serums safe? 🤩
As a glaucoma specialist 👁, I may have a different opinion than some more conservative eye colleagues, but I think they are perfectly OK. 👌🏼
Most lash serums contain a variation of something called a prostaglandin analogue, which is the same drug found in common glaucoma medications (that I prescribe on the regular. The ladies have always appreciated this secondary effect. ❤️).
The most common unwanted side effects of prostaglandin analogues are: redness, irritation, and skin darkening. If you experience any of these issues, they usually resolve by simply discontinuing the medication. 🛑
Given my specialty, I see MANY patients on prostaglandin analogues, and I feel they are safe for the eyes 👁(especially since the drug concentration is much lower in most lash serums vs. a glaucoma drop). Just make sure you let your eye doctor know and that you get your lash serums from a reputable seller (you'd be shocked at how many counterfeit medications are out there!). 😳
How I Control “MASKNE”
(read to the bottom for a GIVEAWAY!)
Did you know that June is acne awareness month? With masks becoming universal, you might be more fondly calling it "MASKNE." 😷 This occurs because of the heat, sweat, and bacteria getting trapped underneath your mask, in addition to irritation and rubbing on the skin.
Ways to reduce your "maskne":
- Wash your face before donning your mask 🧖🏼♀️ and avoid make-up underneath - this will reduce the oil, sweat, and bacteria buildup
- Use a good moisturizer - especially in the areas that the mask rubs
- Only wear clean masks - do not reuse dirty disposable ones and make sure you wash your reusable ones regularly, ideally with fragrance free detergent. Natural materials like cotton breathe best.
- Avoid harsh products (like retinol or benzoyl peroxide) - this might make any irritation worse, so proceed with caution
One of my favorite ways to combat maskne and breakouts (from quarantine snacking 😁), has been using Rodan+Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Mask every few nights. A 2020 New Beauty award winner, this luxurious sulfur mask has been clinically shown to reduce excess oil, calm skin, decongest pores, and reduce blemishes over time. I am giving away a tub of this amazing mask as well as the cutest (and sold out) Alice+Olivia mask.
Head over to my Instagram @vickichanmd or Facebook Vicki Chan Kim for Giveaway details! Good luck!!!