We did it! We made it through 2020, and if you are anything like one-third of Americans, you have already checked your astrological horoscope for the year ahead. What does that have to do with skincare, you ask? Astrology studies the effect of celestial objects on human lives, and our skin is most definitely a reflection of the goings on in our lives. Read ahead for our take on the best skincare routine and products for your sign! 

Your element is fire, and like your fiery nature, you are passionate, motivated, and constantly on the go. On the flipside, you are easily frustrated by details, can be impatient and prone to inflammation. The best skincare routine for you, Aries, is one that you can stick to. Remember that it takes 12-weeks to see the full effect of a new routine, so do not get disheartened early and switch it up too often. Go for quick, efficient routines and high-quality, multi-tasking products that get you in, out and on to your next adventure. Try the Dr. Ellyan #3 Multi-Peptide Toner, STÂSS Serum + Cream Set, and TIZO 2 Primer/Sunscreen!

Those born under the first earth sign tend to be practical and grounded, but that does not mean they do not see the stars. Taurus’ are also notoriously ambitious with the determination and stubbornness to back it up. Ruled by Venus, they revel in artistry, beauty and love luxury and comfort. When it comes to routine, you are extremely reliable, but maybe it's time to switch up the routine you have kept for the past decade. Try upping the luxe factor by getting a professional facial and incorporating some new products into your routine. Our new STÂSS Repair Mask is the perfect addition to your routine - luxe, comforting and reliable... Just like you.

Geminis, much like their element of air, like to float around. They are sociable, gentle, and adaptable, but can also be inconsistent and indecisive. Geminis naturally dislike repetition and routine. When it comes to skincare, try establishing a efficient cleanse and moisturize routine that allows for experimentation with things around it like toners and serums. Sample sets are perfect for a Gemini’s personality and will allow them to try different brands and products. Give Dr. Ellyan's basic Cleanse, Tone and Moisturize routine. Dr. Ellyan #0 Powder Enzyme Wash, Dr. Ellyan #3 Multi-Peptide Toner, Dr. Ellyan #7 Multi-Peptide Cream.

Cosmic crabs are deeply intuitive, sentimental and loyal creatures. Just like their zodiac representative, Cancers are known to retreat into their “shells” and can be “crabby” at times. Their sensitivity runs deep and can manifest in their skin. The best skincare routine for Cancers tends to be comforting, moisture-rich and stress-free routines with proven products made for sensitive skin. Try Janssen Cosmetics' Intense Calming Cream made specifically for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. 

People born under the sign of Leo are creative, passionate and natural born leaders. These cosmic lions are usually surrounded by friends who look up to them in one respect or the other. Likely because they make great friends - always loyal, warm-hearted and cheerful. They take an experimental approach to life and that doesn’t stop when it comes to skincare. The best skincare routine for these lions is whatever the latest trend is. This year, that means - minimalistic routines, refillable beauty, multi-functioning products, and products with added blue light protection. The Dr. Ellyan #4 Revital Serum is jam-packed with anti-aging goodness to help with elasticity, dryness, large pores and wrinkles.

Loyal, analytical, hardworking and practical. True to their earthly element, Virgos are grounded individuals who like cleanliness, nature and have a deep sense of humanity. They can be overly critical and prone to worry, so the first step to healthier skin in 2021 is to relax. Stick to that meditation and workout routine to relieve stress. Their methodological approach to life is evident in their skincare preferences - opting for practical, well-researched routines and products. Try adding a bit of variety in 2021. There are a host of new clean and environmentally-friendly products out there that meet Virgos’ strict standards. Try Dr. Ellyan's 2-Step Bio Barrier Mask and the Dr. Ellyan #5 Vita-C Serum for an extra boost of plant-based goodness in your life.

Airy Libras are the diplomats of the zodiac - fair-minded, harmonious and constantly chasing for equality and justice. Like their element, Libras tend to find purpose in boosting up those around them. They are very romantic, giving and gracious by nature, but are prone to indecisiveness and insecurity. Libras run on the dry side so it’s important to pay special attention to the moisture balance of your skin, especially as seasons change. Picking up some environmentally friendly or cause-related products will help ingredient-conscious-Libras feel great about their skincare regimen. The STÂSS Repair Mask and Janssen Cosmetics' Intense Calming Cream will do wonders for your skin.

Scorpios are born fierce and determined with a smidge of obsessiveness. They are also naturally passionate, assertive, brave and resourceful. It’s almost as if they are born with an innate understanding of how the universe works. Their element is water, and like other water signs intuition and emotions play an important role in their lives. Chances are, if a Scorpio is into skincare, they’re also a little obsessive about it. The best routine for a Scorpio is something that they can stick to. When the need for exfoliation hits, which it inevitably will, opt for something gentle like the Dr. Ellyan #1 & #2 Magic Peeling Set. 

Fiery Sagittarians tend to be generous and idealistic with a killer sense of humor. They’re the travelers of the zodiac and like freedom, philosophy and being outdoors. Details are meaningless to this mutable sign, and being constrained is the worst feeling in the world. When it comes to skincare, simplicity with efficacy is the way to go. Skincare freedom comes in the form of easily portable, multi-tasking products that pack a punch. If you can’t hop on a plane and get away, try exploring products from different parts of the world to satiate that need. Janssen Cosmetics' Soft Cleansing Mousse and Neuro Balm came all the way from Germany and gets the job done with the least amount of things you need to pack in your bags.

Cosmic goats are the most responsible and disciplined of the zodiac, exuding self-control at all times. This earth sign isn’t afraid to dig in and put in the work necessary to slowly, but surely get to the top. Capricorns are serious by nature, and can be unforgiving, holding onto things longer than they should. Like other earth signs, Capricorns can be prone to clogged pores, so it’s important to deep cleanse once in a while. A simple, yet effective, skincare routine with one or two luxe standout products will work best for these goats that strive for luxury. Try the Dr. Ellyan #0 Powder Enzyme Wash and iStelle's Skin Enhancer Cream, and TIZO's Eye Renewal for a simple, luxe-feeling routine.

Aquarians are deep thinkers, highly intellectual, and love helping others. If there’s no mental stimulations, they’re *poof* gone. They can either be introverts or extroverts, but will always need reset time alone. This fun and progressive sign prefers fun routines. Opt for a good foundational cleanse and moisturize routine that leaves room for fun, exciting additions. In 2021, make Mask Mondays or Selfcare Sundays a “thing”. Products that are fun and align with social or environmental causes will likely appeal to the humanitarian in you. Give the Janssen Cosmetics' Instant Soothing Mask and Intense Calming Cream a try. They're made in Germany with no preservatives and allergenic perfumes. TIZO's TIZO 2 Non-Tinted Primer / Sunscreen SPF 40 is FREE of chemical sunscreen filters, dyes, fragrances, oils, preservatives, reef-friendly and isn't tested on animals. 

Pisceans are the friendliest of all signs - compassionate, artistic by nature, tolerant and oh-so-idealistic. The downside is that they can be over-trusting, prone to sadness and a desire to escape reality when people or the world don’t live up to their ideals. Luckily, your skincare ideals don’t have to disappoint. Like all water signs, sensitivity tends to be an issue. Opt for products without abrasive cleansers, harsh astringents, and combat redness. If anyone can find a way to achieve the same results using fewer steps, a Pisces can. For the "do everything" mask, give the STÂSS Repair Mask a try. Dr. Ellyan's #6 Hyaluronic Serum will help you keep your moisture balance in check, and Janssen Cosmetics' Neuro Skin Balm to soothe your sensitive skin.

I don’t know about you, but this weather has been wreaking havoc on my skin. One day it’s high 90s and the next day it’s in the 50s. As if this schizophrenic seasonal transition isn’t enough, we’ve had seven fires in and around Los Angeles County in October and early November alone! If you’re like me, you’ve probably noticed that your skin is feeling rather dry, despite normal efforts to hydrate. Yes, it’s because of the fires! The particulate matter produced from these fires settle into your skin and cause wrinkles, pigment spots and aggravate inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and acne.[1] Add in cold weather and holiday travel, and it’s definitely time to give your skin some extra TLC.

What can you do, you ask? Renew, Restore and Rebalance – which also happens to be our motto at VHB.

Renew

Exfoliating sloughs off dead skin and debris that’s built up on the surface of your skin, but you don’t want to overdo it. It provides a clean canvas for other products and allows your serums, oils and moisturizers to penetrate deeper into your skin. I’m prone to breakouts, so I exfoliate only a few times a week, but I’m obsessed with Tata Harper’s Regenerating Cleanser! It’s a daily exfoliating treatment that’s super gentle and made from natural, organic ingredients.

Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser - 124ml, $84

Restore & Rebalance

For those of you residing in and around areas that have experienced wildfires, your skin has been working some serious OT to replenish new skin cells that the smoke is drying out. The same happens when you’re exposed to drying in-flight cabin air and cold weather. Oils, serums and masks are the saving grace for times like these. Nutrient and antioxidant-rich products replenish the good stuff that’s lost in the fight against oxidative stress caused by environmental changes and pollution.

"But I feel weird about applying oil to my face", you say.

Oil gets a bad rap, but it’s just about finding the right one. The right oil, and application, won’t make you breakout and it won’t make you overly shiny or oily. When it comes to oils, less is more – one to three drops is enough. Apply oil either directly onto your skin, mix into your serum to level it up, or mix into your moisturizer to lock in hydration.

If you have oily skin, use heavier oils, or oils that increase your skin’s sensitivity to light, try using them at night so your skin has time to soak it up. If you have dull skin, you can also use certain oils as primers for a hydrated glow. Remember to allow the oil to fully absorb before applying makeup.

Don't like the thought of another step? VHB’s serums are already infused with nutrient-packed ingredients and oils.

For a lighter serum, Dr. Ellyan’s No. 6 Hyaluronic Serum is packed with millions of moisturizing particles that provide the ideal moisture balance across all three layers of your skin. 

Dr. Ellyan No. 6 Hyaluronic Serum - 30ml, $130

For something heavier, Dr. Ellyan’s No. 4 Revital Serum addresses various signs of aging skin, including loss of elasticity, dryness, dilation of pores and wrinkles. The fast-absorbing water-based formula penetrates the skin easily, providing intense nutrition, promoting cell regeneration, calming dry skin and reinforces the skin’s natural barrier resulting in smoother, more resilient skin.

Dr. Ellyan No. 4 Revital Serum - 30ml, $130

We’re also so obsessed with our Dr. Ellyan 2-Step Bio-Barrier Mask. It’s packed with a powerful botanical blend, ginseng extract and licorice to provide intense moisture, soothe skin and improve skin tone. Hydrogel technology in the mask increases the absorption of active ingredients and minimizes moisture loss, while the bio-barrier cream gives your skin an added nutrition boost while sealing in all that hydrating and replenishing goodness.

Dr. Ellyan 2-Step Bio Gel Mask (Box of 10), $65

What are you waiting for? Put on a corny holiday love story and mask up.

References

[1] Kim KE, Cho D, Park HJ. Air pollution and skin diseases: Adverse effects of airborne particulate matter on various skin diseases. Life Sci. 2016; 152:126-134; PMID: 27018067

Alas. Summer is coming to an end and school is, once again, upon us. Back-to-school time is great. You’re older, smarter, wiser, and better equipped to deal with all that education they’re going to throw at you having hit the big RESET button over summer. You’ve slept in, you’re relaxed, and your skin is glowing. How do you make that summer glow last? Here are five back-to-school skincare tips from our very own skin guru, Stacy Wu.

1. Picking your poison.

• Fish, like salmon, mackerel and herring, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and zinc – all of which are essential for healthy skin function, help to reduce inflammation and protect against free radicals.
• Avocados have a ton of good fats, vitamins E and C. Go ahead, get the extra quac.
• Walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, C and selenium, an antioxidant that helps lower oxidative stress on your body, reduces inflammation and enhances your immunity. They also happen to be high in protein so they'll keep you full longer.
• Sweet potatoes are an amazing source of beta-carotene (vitamin A). One ½-cup serving provides almost 400x the recommended daily value of vitamin A!
• Broccoli is like a miracle vegetable. It’s packed full of vitamins and minerals essential to skin health, eye health, and just general body health.

This is probably obvious, but drinking enough water is also important. Skip the sugary, over-caffeinated drinks and opt for water or green tea, which has a powerful antioxidant that can protect your skin from sun damage, reduce redness, improve hydration, thickness and elasticity.

If you must drink alcohol, try following every alcoholic drink with a glass of water.

Hangover Tip: Choose Pedialyte or coconut water over sugary sports drinks. They’ll hydrate you without the sugar crash.

2. Deal with stress head on.

Stress affects your entire body, including your skin. The chemical reaction caused by stress makes your skin more sensitive and reactive, aggravating existing conditions like psoriasis, rosacea and eczema. It can also trigger dormant and underlying conditions, like herpes breakouts and autoimmune disorders! When you’re stressed, your body creates more hormones, like cortisol, that increases oil production in your glands leading to breakouts and delayed healing.

Stress is literally the worst, but it is also an unavoidable part of life so it’s important to figure out the best way you deal with stress early on. Your skin, friends, loved ones, roommates, literally everyone (including yourself) will thank you for it. Here are some things that work for us:

• Meditation. Paired with deep breathing exercises, this could be the cure for everything.
• Dog Cuddles. 100% effective, but doesn’t last very long. This should be obvious, but I’m still going to put it out there. Ask before you hug a stranger’s dog. Getting bit in the face is guaranteed to cause more stress.
• Physical Activity. Walk, run, do yoga, pilates, go to the gym, etc. The options are endless. Personally, I like to clean my apartment with music blasting. To each their own.

3. DO NOT touch your face. Repeat. DO NOT touch your face.

The crazy thing is you don’t even notice you're doing it. Do you rest your chin on your hand or rub your eyes? Chances are you're transferring insane amounts of bacteria onto your skin and into your eyeballs. Read the below at your own risk.

• Your phone packs 10x as many germs as a public bathroom’s toilet.
• Studies show that keyboards have been linked to influenza, mold, coliform, staph, yeast, and a ton of other legitimately gross things.
• Your mouth is home to over 700 different species of bacteria.
• The list goes on: pillowcases, doorknob handles, refrigerator handles, dirty bathtubs that can cause yeast infections, dirty shower heads that can cause meningitis, etc.
• I’m just going to stop here.

4. Wash your face.

Well, wash your hands first, and then wash your face. Try not to nap or gym with makeup on, but if you must (like I must), wear light, non-comedogenic makeup that’s not going to clog your pores and wash your face immediately after. NO hanging out and chatting with the cute trainer. NO “let’s go grab coffee” after. NO let’s sit on our phones outside checking Instagram. Go straight to the bathroom and wash your face.

Expert Tip: Wash your face for 60-seconds. Cleansing your face for 60-seconds allows the ingredients in the cleanser to actually work. Bored after 15-seconds? Give yourself a face massage. Massaging your face while washing it will also increase blood circulation and give you that glow. Don’t believe us? Look up #60secondrule.

5. Simplify your skincare routine.

If you’re going back to school, chances are your skin is still naturally producing enough collagen and self-healing goodness to warrant this tip. Simplicity over complexity if consistency is key.

• Step 1: Remove your makeup.
• Step 2: Wash (or double wash) your face. We’re fans of double washing. Try our Enzyme Powder Wash. Gentle enough for double washing and it brightens your skin.
• Step 3: Moisturize. Try our STASS Clarifying Cream – that disinfects, moisturizes and protects all in one bottle.
• Optional: Serum before moisturizer or pimple cream after. Your call.
• Step 4: Mask Weekly! We love #MaskMondays, and think you should try these favorites:

We love the Swisse Manuka Honey Cleansing Clay Mask.

Or these from Sephora:

Dr. Jart+ Clearing Solution Sheet Mask

Sephora Collection Green Tea Face Mask

For normal skin, we love our Dr. Ellyan 2-Step Bio-Barrier Mask

or the BMB Biocellulose Hydrating Mask

or iStelle's Hydrogel Post-Procedure Mask