Sonya Dakar Skin Specialist's blog

If over the last few years you haven’t heard the buzz regarding Omega-3 and healthy skin, it is time to take note. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid found in foods like flaxseed, salmon, soybeans, and walnuts. While Omega-3 is sought after for a long list of internal health benefits, this essential fatty acid also does wonders for the skin.

Just as Omega-3 reduces inflammation within our bodies when ingested, it also soothes inflammation externally when applied topically. Additionally, the fatty acid can help replenish dry, irritated, and flakey skin by restoring skin’s natural balance and strengthening cells. Its soothing and hydrating properties make Omega-3 particularly beneficial for anyone with psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, and generally irritated skin.

There is no mistake that exfoliation is a vital step in any skincare regimen. If done weekly, it can transform dull and uneven skin into a youthful, glowing complexion. However, most people do not know that there are actually two different methods of exfoliation: chemical and mechanical. Chemical exfoliation relies on the active ingredients to absorb or peel away dead and dull skin, while mechanical exfoliation buffs skin using a physical component like seeds, beads, or a cloth.

Chemical exfoliation with active fruit enzymes is a particularly effective method of exfoliation that doesn’t cause irritation. Enzymes found in fruits like pumpkin, pineapple, and papaya eat away and absorb pore-clogging debris. This method of exfoliation is ideal for acne prone or sensitive skin since there is less chance of irritation than with mechanical exfoliation. We like the Sonya Dakar Skincare’s Enzyme Peeling Cream which uses Pumpkin, Beta-Carotene, and Cardamom to gently slough away dull skin and reveal an immediate glow. This can be done 1-3 times a week to promote a healthy, luminescent complexion.

We've made it through another winter; spring is nearly upon us. However, spring will surely bring changes in climate and thus, changes in our skin. Temperatures and humidity may fluctuate, which means we must be extra mindful of how we care for our complexions. Furthermore, many of us encounter allergies during the spring time which can cause redness, puffiness and irritation. Here are some of Sonya Dakar Skincare's tricks for looking fresh, balanced, and healthy during your spring metamorphosis:

• Exfoliate. The winter likely left your skin dryer than usual. Using our Enzyme Peeling Cream, slough off dead, flakey skin that may be dulling your complexion. And don't just stop at the face either! Scrub your entire body with our Triple Action Vita-foliant to brighten and illuminate from head to toe.

Let's be honest, skincare is not just for women… though men would love to have them think the contrary. Nonetheless, most women have fallen victim to a half empty bottle of their favorite facial wash moments after their guy leaves the shower. And while a nicely groomed, Don Draper type partner is nothing to complain about, it is about time men had a skincare regimen designed specifically to their needs.

Sonya Dakar Skincare's Debonair in a Dash is the regimen kit designed to support a man's skin. The comprehensive kit consists of 5 easy-to-use products that can maintain and protect, without causing irritation.

Think of skin as you would a delicate piece of vintage lace; even the slightest damage can leave a lasting mark. Whether skin has been exposed to UV rays, pollution, acne or other surface traumas, chances are it has affected the collagen levels in that particular area. Common signs of scarring or skin damage can be discoloration or unevenness of the skin. For those who have become victim, scars can be incredibly frustrating.

Of course, the best way to eliminate scarring and pigmentation is through prevention. Using an effective daily sunscreen and controlling blemishes on acneic skin are integral to maintaining a “snag-proof” complexion. However, for the many who have already developed signs of scarring, there is help. Depending upon the severity of skin trauma, there are various levels of treatment to remodel the collagen of skin and regenerate cells.

• For a less dramatic and extremely gentle approach to healing skin try essential oils like lemon, eucalyptus, cypress, which work by lightening pigmentation and hastening cell renewal. Additionally, vitamins A, B, and E have been shown to promote healthy healing.

Between the Grammys and the upcoming Academy Awards, it’s safe to say this award season has all of us craving a little gold.

Though not all of us are gracing the red carpet, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t glow like the best of the starlets. The Liquid Gold Facial from Sonya Dakar Skincare is the rich and luxurious at-home facial that will give skin the extra boost it needs. It is the four step system to revive radiance and bring instant luminosity to your complexion.

Begin with the UltraLuxe Nourishing Wash to quench and restore skin’s natural moisture. Packed with vital antioxidants, the UltaLuxe Nourishing Wash gives skin a vitamin boost that clarifies pores and acts like an instant water supplement to dehydrated or maturing skin.

Next, enhance your glow with the UltraLuxe Active Mask. This creamy, hydrating mask can be left on for 10 minutes or overnight. Infused with skin-soothing vitamins and Sonya Dakar Skincare’s age-reversing complex, it will instantly transform skin’s texture. After all, it’s not called the “Red Carpet Mask” for nothing.

A lightweight, luxurious, and effective sunscreen is difficult to come by. Many sunscreens feel heavy or greasy to the touch, while others are unsuccessful in providing broad spectrum protection. However, Sonya Dakar Skincare is ready to answer the call. Our skincare specialists are diligently working to create a quality sunscreen that won’t only protect skin from sun damage and premature aging, but it will also work to drastically improve the texture of our skin. Finally, SPF products that you’ll want to wear every day!

At the request of our clients, we are working to develop new Sonya Dakar sunscreen products to suit the needs of every skin type. So why the wait? We want to be sure we get it perfect! Government regulations for sunscreens are becoming more and more stringent, which can cause unforeseen delays in our process. It is our goal to develop fully versatile SPF products that will uphold the highest level of approval and satisfaction to our clients. Lightweight? Check. Full spectrum protection? You got it. Luxury? Of course!

For some celebrities, the red carpet means weeks and sometimes months of preparation. They splurge on facials, various skin treatments, and usually adopt a strict skincare regimen in anticipation for a big event. While the fashion, the hair, and the makeup are all crucial to the look, there is one element that truly separates a red carpet beauty from a dud: their skin. This is why there is so much emphasis on what stars do to prepare for a red carpet event.

But what about the morning after? What happens after the awards have been granted and the champagne has been sipped into the wee hours of the after parties? Lack of sleep, thick makeup, heavy hors d' oeuvres, and alcohol can wreak havoc on even the most flawless of celebrity complexions. The next morning skin may appear dull, dry, puffy, and may be prone to breakouts. Luckily, Sonya Dakar Skincare has the post red carpet facial treatment that detoxifies, clears, renews, and allows starlets to instantly bounce back to their radiant and glowing complexion.

Wake up, skin; it is officially award season! Whether walking the red carpet or watching from home, we all want winning skin. In honor of our favorite Golden Globe complexions, Sonya Dakar Skincare dishes on which products you can use to glow just like Charlize, Angelina, and Emma.

There is little worse than your polished, good-looking coworker saying, “Wow, you look tired today.” And though you most likely tried to cover the bags under your eyes with makeup, attempted to slap some blush onto your cheeks for color, she never fails to notice when you’ve had a long night. Lack of sleep can result in dehydrated, puffy, and dull skin. Luckily, whether you’re a regular party animal or just a victim of insomnia, Sonya Dakar Skincare has the products to give you the appearance of a full night’s sleep.

• First, give your skin an instant pick-me-up with our most refreshing cleanser, The Red Grapefruit Wash. This pore clarifying cleanser uses grapefruit to tighten pores and reduce puffiness, while providing an instant burst of freshness to wake you up.

• After cleansing skin, it is time to get your circulation going. Use the Enzyme Peeling Cream to slough off dry and tired skin and bring instant brightness to your complexion. You will not believe how smooth, soft, and radiant your skin will look in just minutes.

Is eliminating crow’s feet and puffiness at the top of your skincare resolutions list? Fortunately, Sonya Dakar Skincare’s newest regimen kit, The Eye-deologist, makes this a simple resolution to stick to. Choose from The Eye-deologist or The Eye-deologist Plus, depending on your level of need. The ultra luxurious products will revive the delicate skin around the eyes, leaving you looking younger and more refreshed than you’ve envisioned. 

The Eye-deologist regimen kits include:

• Fresh Eyes to gently cleanse and prep the delicate skin around the eyes. This specialized cleanser exfoliates the skin around the eyes for ultimate rejuvenation ever and heightened susceptibility to creams. Available in The Eye-deologist and The Eye-deologist Plus regimen kits.

• Bright Eyes; the name says it all. This soothing eye cream diminishes puffiness and dark circles. It is the perfect way to fake a full night’s sleep. Available in The Eye-deologist and The Eye-deologist Plus regimen kits.

While most of us do adhere to a daily regimen to keep our faces looking vibrant and smooth, the majority of us do not pay this kind of attention to the rest of our body. However, especially in these drying winter months, full body skincare is an absolute must for glowing skin.  

Sonya Dakar Skincare’s products formulated for the neck down are unlike any other body treatments you have ever tried.  These ultra luxurious products transform skin instantly.  It is the only way to experience moisture so deep or achieve a glowing sheen so healthy.  

Now, Sonya Dakar Skincare has two complete regimen kits made especially for the body: The Body Supple Regimen kit, infused with Verbena for mature, rough, or pigmented skin, and The Suit of Amour, enhanced with Cara Cara to support dehydrated and congested, acne-prone skin.  

Each kit includes:

• Daily Wash for a moisturizing deep clean.

• Triple Action Vita-Foliant to gently exfoliate and brighten rough skin.

Age spots, sun damage, melasma, vitiligo, hyperpigmentation; kiss it all goodbye.  The Sun-Kissed regimen kits from Sonya Dakar Skincare offer a solution for anyone battling discolored skin. 
  

The Sun-Kissed and The Sun-Kissed Plus both offer a step-by-step system to even, healthy, vibrant skin. 
  

• The Mud Eucalyptus Wash is a gentle, purifying wash.  Eucalyptus is cell generating, lemon is brightening, and Dead Sea mud provides a luxurious lather that deep cleans and gently exfoliates.  Can be used daily or in alternation with the Cypress Citrus Wash.  Available in The Sun-Kissed and The Sun-Kissed Plus regimen kits. 
  

• The Complexion Corrector is an aggressive lightening treatment to be used every other night.  This vasco-stimulating serum dramatically improves hyperpigmentation.  Use it all over face or as a spot treatment for age spots or pregnancy mask.  Available in The Sun-Kissed and The Sun-Kissed Plus regimen kits. 
  

If firm, supple, dewy skin is something you’re after, you are probably the time-traveling type. You know; the kind that exudes the “forever young” feeling, the type that refuses to age, whether in mind, body, or face. Well carry on, free spirit; Sonya Dakar Skincare has three different regimen kits perfectly suited for The Time Traveler in you. 
  

With three regimen levels, you can choose from basic anti-aging skincare with The Time Traveler Kit, something more advanced with The Time Traveler Plus, or the crème de la crème of age-reversal with The Time Traveler Deluxe. Rewind time the luxurious way with these easy steps: 
  

• Begin with the Nourishing Wash. This is an oil-based wash that breaks down debris while acting as a instant water supplement for dry or mature skin. Skin is plump, firm, and hydrated. 
  

If you haven’t heard, the latest Hollywood beauty ssssecret is out: snake venom! That’s right celebrities are raving about the new anti-aging miracle product. Sound scary? Don’t fret; there need not be any needles, fangs, or slithering reptiles involved. Sonya Dakar Skincare developed "synake," a synthetic snake venom that mimics the muscle inhibiting effects of Botox. You read that right; it’s literally Botox in a bottle. Lines are smoothed and wrinkles are diminished. The luxurious anti-aging line, UltraLuxe 9 by Sonya Dakar Skincare has a bevy of age-reversing tricks up their sleeves. The line contains three powerful products containing the coveted ingredient. 
  

First, the UltraLuxe 9 Age Control Complex has the highest percentage of synake to temporarily mimic the effects of Botox. However, this alternative is only one of the many anti-aging secrets behind Sonya Dakar Skincare. The formula is also enhanced with other age-reversing technologies to support three categories of aging: stimulating collagen, inhibiting wrinkle causing muscles, and fighting free radicals.