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Dewy skin is always in – especially in the summer. A healthy, hydrated glow is a warm weather staple for many. The secret to this fresh and glossy look is hydration, and lots of it. If trying out this look is on your to-do list, read on for a simple routine that will “dew” the trick. 

What is Dewy Skin?

Dewy skin is moisturized, supple, smooth skin that looks fresh and has a glow to it. Think hydrated, bright post-exfoliation skin. A telltale sign of dewy skin is that it reflects light beautifully, especially on the highest points of the face like the cheekbones. A lot of beauty lovers aim to achieve dewy skin in the summer because it creates a beautiful canvas for fresh, lightweight makeup.

How is it Different from Oily Skin? 

While on the surface, the dewy skin look might conjure up images of an oil slick, think of it more as a freshly moisturized look with a smooth, natural sheen that bounces and reflects light. Oily skin, on the other hand, has more of a shiny or greasy look to it. Dewy skin will feel clean and fresh, not clogged or dirty. “Dewy” is a look, while “oily” is a skin type.  

What about Dolphin Skin, Glass Skin and Glazed Donut Skin? 

You may have seen these terms trending on social media and wondered what sets them apart from dewy skin. While these skin trends are all different, they’re variations on a theme. A healthy moisture barrier is ground zero for all of these looks, with moisturized, nourished skin helping to achieve a plumped and luminous glow. The glass skin and glazed donut skin looks are essentially about a complexion that looks poreless, dewy and shimmers like glass, while dolphin skin includes a finishing touch of makeup, usually highlighter and blush, to really amp things up.

Does Dewy Skin Work For Every Skin Type? 

With the right products and prep, any skin type can achieve dewy skin – yes, even dry skin. What is important to remember is that the look is about moisture and exfoliation, so using skin care products from each category that are specific to your skin type will help you get there. As with a lot of skin and makeup looks, what goes on behind the scenes has a big impact on the final look. To achieve a dewy complexion, little to no makeup needs to be involved, so skin prep is key. When the canvas you’re working with is in the best possible condition, the outcome will be a smoother, brighter, dewier look. It’s hard to hide inflammation, irritation and other potential skin issues when your goal is minimal makeup and a dewy finish. So let’s get started.   

A Dewy Skin Routine 

Now that you know what it’s all about, the next question is, “How do I get dewy skin?” 

You’ll want to start with a cream-based cleanser to impart some moisture to the skin while also eliminating buildup. Cleanse gently with your fingertips – overcleansing or vigorous scrubbing could cause harm to the skin barrier in the form of micro-tears. Light pressure in circular motions is key; stay away from harsh tools or scrubbing with face cloths. 

Next up on your to-dew list is exfoliation. Nothing dulls the dewy glow like a layer of dead skin. The look you’re going for is radiant and refreshed, so eliminating the top layer of dead skin cells will help you glow. Exfoliation also helps the rest of the skin care products to penetrate better. A gentle exfoliant like lactic acid or glycolic acid is ideal for resurfacing. You’ll find both in the Firm Skin Acai Exfoliating Peel, which will leave your skin looking plumped, hydrated and ready to absorb the next products.  

Pro tip: If you’re looking to save time, an exfoliating cleanser will do double duty by combining the first two steps. The Monoi Age Corrective Exfoliating Cleanser is a cream-based cleanser that uses both physical and chemical exfoliation to help refine your skin’s texture.

Antioxidants are important to nourish and brighten the look of the skin. A treatment like our Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque will do the trick. If you’re looking to really double down on the vitamins, follow that up with a hydrating and toning Vitamin C serum like the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum. 

Since the look really leans into hydration, a hyaluronic acid moisturizer like the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator is the water magnet your skin needs. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, especially when applied to damp skin. So spritz on a few sprays of Neroli Age Corrective Hydrating Mist to enhance absorption and then go to town with your hyaluronic acid.

Of course, this wouldn’t be a dewy skin care routine if it didn’t include SPF. Sun damage can be a one-way ticket to dullsville, so it’s important to avoid it at all costs. The Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40 adds hydration while it protects – another product doing double duty.  

The finishing touches in this routine are really what takes it to the next level. An oil gently pressed into the face will melt in and leave a beautiful gleam on the skin, without interrupting the efficacy of the SPF. A solid oil like the Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil or a liquid like our Facial Recovery Oil are two options that will get you there. 

One more step that can be repeated throughout the day, is to finish off with a spritz of something to hydrate the skin and keep it looking fresh. The Neroli Age Corrective Hydrating Mist is full of ingredients that moisturize and hydrate, including coconut milk, coconut water and neroli oil. 

If you want to dive deeper into the dewy look, watch Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar as she walks you through a routine that will get you glowing, no matter what your skin type is. 

 

Are you looking to get your skin ready to glow? Visit our Spa Locator and book yourself a facial to get you on the way to healthy, dewy skin. 

In all my 30+ years of being an esthetician, I have never seen as many people come to me with concerns over sensitive skin as I have in the last few years. I’m almost certain that we have social media to thank for this, as the term “damaged moisture barrier” has been burned into our collective psyche. There’s no doubt that having a robust moisture barrier is a key component of healthy skin, and on the one hand, I am glad people have a better understanding of this concept. I think it helps prevent skin issues that can be caused by user error, such as over-exfoliation. 

But when it comes to damaged skin barriers, I advise everyone to take a step back and calm down. People have reached a bit of a fever pitch thinking their barriers are either damaged all the time or damaged beyond repair (spoiler alert, your skin is resilient and can always bounce back!). Remember, a “damaged barrier” is only a modern-day term for having dry, sensitive skin– it’s nothing to lose sleep over and it’s far from a permanent condition. Our barriers are not as damaged as we think they are. To understand why, let’s take a little trip down memory lane. 

Skincare in the ‘80s

Let me tell you, the skincare industry has come a long way since I entered the scene as an esthetician in 1988. The average skincare routine consisted solely of three steps: cleanse, tone, and moisturize. Don’t think this sounds too bad? Let’s take a closer look.

Back in the ‘80s, cleanser options were far and few. You could either use a super drying bar soap or a foaming cleanser that was sure to be loaded with drying sulfates. The binders that are used in bar soap give it a pH that isn’t compatible with our skin, making them notoriously harsh and drying. Even worse, these cleansers were paired with a Buf Puf, or what basically served as a Brillo Pad for your face! Back then nobody knew what a moisture barrier was, leading people to scrub and scrub at their skin– especially if they were acne prone. We now know that acne is an anti-inflammatory condition and that irritating it like this is the last thing we want to do.

When it came to toners, they were entirely astringent back then (anyone remember SeaBreeze or Ten-O-Six?). To get that astringent effect, they usually had drying alcohols in them. One of the most popular cleansers at the time was Clinique No. 2, which contained not only alcohol but also acetone. Anytime I heard that one of my clients was using this toner, I would demonstrate its ability to remove my nail polish right in front of their eyes. It didn’t take long to conclude it’s definitely not something you want on your face!

I’m a big fan of toners for these five reasons, but modern toners are alcohol-free and deliver hydrating, nourishing ingredients into the skin.

Lastly, moisturizers were not something that those with oily, acne-prone skin were concerned about using to keep their skin hydrated. This only contributed to overall dryness. 

Skincare in the ‘90s and ‘00s

The ‘90s and early aughts ushered in a new crop of popular products, but most of them were just as bad. 

Clarisonic

In terms of exfoliation, the Buf Puf was just replaced by Clarisonic. It was advertised that you should use it twice a day and in turn, became the reason I saw so many people rubbing their skin raw. 

Facial Scrubs

Facial scrubs also became popular during this time. However, most of them consisted of jagged bits of walnut shells or apricot pits. To the surprise of many, I actually still think facial scrubs can be extremely beneficial, especially for hyperpigmentation. This was an unpopular opinion for a long time because people were scarred– both literally and figuratively– by old-school scrubs. I still believe they can be very beneficial, but it’s all about using a modern scrub with gentle particles.

Proactive

Proactive was another product that quickly rose to fame, likely due to repetitive TV commercials and illustrious endorsements from everyone’s favorite celebrities. If you had acne, you were using proactive. But their products were heavy on drying ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, and they didn’t provide much compensation in the way of moisture. 

Exfoliating Acids 

They may be one of the most widely used skincare actives today, but let’s not forget how exfoliating acids started! When acids first came onto the scene, no one had any idea how to use them properly. They were sold at incredibly high percentages, and the formulas weren’t very well stabilized because the importance of pH with these products wasn’t yet well understood. 

I came to learn this firsthand in 1992 when I got my hands on a pure 2% AHA glycolic acid gel. This was revolutionary at the time because these acids were fairly unknown (even among skincare professionals!). Per the instructions, I kept it on my skin for 10 minutes, rinsed it off, then wiped my face with a damp washcloth. As I wiped, I noticed my skin was peeling off. I was excited, thinking it was just really effective. Come to find out, I was actually wiping off new skin cells. The next day, my skin was oozing badly and I developed scabs on my face. It took a month for everything to fully heal. 

Retinoids

I was also around when retinoids went mainstream for the treatment of wrinkles and photoaging. They had historically been used to treat acne, but the FDA eventually approved them for anti-aging (I even met the dermatologist who was instrumental in getting them approved). In 1990, ABC News broke a story about how there was an acne prescription that was being used off-label for the treatment of wrinkles. Everyone rushed out to get it and started using it with little to no education. The next few weeks I was booked solid with all these clients who were running to their esthetician to repair all the dryness, sensitivity, and damage that had been caused. I had a client come in once with super dry skin from using a prescription retinoid, and when she sat down and smiled at me, her nasolabial folds literally cracked and bled right in front of my very eyes. There was only one strength of retinoid available at the time (intended for oil, acne-prone skin) meaning that those prone to dryness were stuck using a retinoid that was way too strong for them.

Where We’re At Now (and Why Your Barriers are Safer Than Ever)

Needless to say, everyone is much more educated about how to use active ingredients now. Exfoliating acids are now available in tons of different strengths, with stabilized formulas, and additional hydrating and soothing ingredients. Astringent toners have been replaced with hydrating essences. Physical scrubs are now gentle and well-formulated. Different types of acids, like lactic and mandelic, are an option for even the most delicate skin types. And retinoids? There are so many different types of retinoids available now. Again, all different kinds of strengths and bases—some more gentle and hydrating than others depending on your needs. With a wealth of education available about how to properly use retinoids, people now know how to mitigate side effects slowly (like applying moisturizer underneath). Even makeup is a lot more nourishing than it used to be! Back when matte was the look, foundation makeup was largely contributing to dryness. Now, a lot of makeup has skincare ingredients in it.

The moral of the story is that products now are far gentler than they’ve ever been before. This means that how people use them and how brands promote their products is very important to focus on. For example, an exfoliating acid serum could have a great, gentle formulation. But, if you’re using it every single day of the week, you’re still going to get a compromised barrier. 

Education In Skincare

Consumers are more educated than ever before, and one reason is that brands lean much more heavily into product education, which I’ve always thought was super important. I think the main danger now is that while information is more readily available than ever, there’s so much of it that it can be a double-edged sword. People get information from sources that aren’t reputable, and their skin can become compromised due to user error. (And yes, people are still seeing DIY skincare recipes involving putting lemon juice on their skin. One of the many reasons I’m not a fan of DIY skincare.)

How Products Are More Efficacious Now

Simply put, products are more efficacious now because we understand the skin’s needs a little better and there are more options to choose from. This means you can find products that are suitable for your unique skin instead of everyone having access to the same few products like back in the day. I based my whole brand on the idea that everyone’s skin is unique and has its own needs, that’s why I created the Nine Skin Types. Because products are less harsh we’re working in sync with mother nature. Never go against her, always work with her! It’s all about listening to your skin and not overdoing it.

Wondering what to do if you’ve damaged your barrier? If you overdo it and end up compromising your moisture barrier, here’s how to fix it. 

Turn Your Daily Stroll Into a Walking Meditation

by Caitlin H,

May 29, 2023

One of the most accessible and perhaps enjoyable fitness activities to make a part of your daily routine is walking. That’s especially true during the late spring and summer months when the fresh air, sunshine, and beautiful scenery can elevate it to the next level.

And while those things may improve your fitness and well-being in and of themselves, what if there were a way to make them even more beneficial?

Enter…meditation.

12 Healthy Snacks Everyone Should Have On Hand

by Caitlin H,

May 22, 2023

Do you often find yourself eyeing the snack machine in the office or scanning the pantry at home between meals?

Constantly feeling hungry can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to weight loss, especially if you’re snacking on unhealthy foods like chips or candy bars all day.  Stocking your pantry or office desk with healthy snacks packed with filling nutrients like fiber and protein is essential.

We have 12 suggestions for filling, healthy, simple snacks that can break the hangry cycle and keep you satisfied and energized all day.

10 Tips to Break a Bad Habit for Good

by Caitlin H,

May 15, 2023

Many of us structure our lives around habits, such as getting up at 7 a.m., drinking a cup of morning coffee, or eating dinner at 6 p.m. These regular practices may be a critical part of ensuring your everyday life is consistent and manageable, and that’s a good thing.

But some habits—such as smoking, overeating, drinking, consuming too much caffeine, or scanning social media right before bed—can negatively impact your overall health and well-being.

There’s a good chance you can quickly identify your own bad habit (or habits). There’s an even better chance you are well aware of their harmful effects. So how do you go about breaking those bad habits? 

7 Brain Exercise Activities to Keep Your Mind Sharp

by Caitlin H,

May 8, 2023

Creating a healthy lifestyle is about many things. It’s about a consistent diet with balanced nutrition. It’s about staying active and exercising. It’s about ensuring your mental well-being. And it’s about keeping your brain active and engaged.

Need a little help keeping that mind sharp, engaged, and present in the moment?  Read on!

10 Signs Your Diet is a Dud

by Caitlin H,

May 1, 2023

If you’re like many of our customers, there’s a solid chance you have tried some weight loss plans in the past—and didn’t see the long-term results you desired.

Here’s the thing: The people who find lasting success do so by making it a lifestyle. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try a diet. But it means you need to find a diet that works for you and allows you to incorporate healthy eating into your everyday life.

But how can you tell if that “diet” can become a lifestyle?

Delicious Recipes For Our Favorite Spring Fruits

by Caitlin H,

Apr 24, 2023

Spring is the most colorful time of year, and that’s especially true when it comes to spring fruits!

While you can find these fruits year-round in supermarkets, using seasonal produce tends to elicit the best-tasting results. You can also visit farmers’ markets to support local growers and get the freshest stuff available.

We love springtime and the colorful fruits that come with it. Now is the perfect time to try a new light, healthy snack or dessert that everyone will love!

Financial Analyst Loses 10 Pounds in One Month with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Apr 17, 2023

Hailey’s 32nd birthday weekend in February was filled with the kinds of things most people like to do on their birthdays — dinner and drink outings, celebrations with friends, and enjoying time with her fiancé.

But after that weekend, Hailey stepped onto the scale and quickly realized she had gained 5 pounds over those few days alone.

Find out how Diet-to-Go helped Hailey lose 10 pounds in 30 days!

10 Fun Fitness Ideas to Make Exercise Enjoyable

by Caitlin H,

Apr 10, 2023

Exercising can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when you go to a gym and see what looks like elite athletes pumping weights or pounding out mile after mile on the treadmill.

It’s okay. We get it. And you are certainly not alone. Thankfully, exercising can take place anywhere, anytime, and in all sorts of fun formats.

The Benefits of Staying Hydrated and How Much Water to Drink

by Caitlin H,

Apr 3, 2023

Water is an essential part of a healthy, well-rounded diet. In fact, studies show that hydrating often may slow the aging process and help you live longer. In addition to adding years to your life, there are also a host of other benefits of drinking water and staying well-hydrated.

So, how much water should you drink each day? 

Here’s the thing, it’s not a one-size-fits-all model. But, we can help you figure out what amount is right for you!

5 Weight Loss Tips That Fit Into Your Hectic Schedule

by Caitlin H,

Mar 27, 2023

Remember when it was just before the new year, and you were highly motivated to lose weight and get healthy?

Between balancing things like work, kids, social events, and everything in between, our hectic schedules often mean there’s not much time left for self-care or healthy habits, and that resolution might have fallen to the wayside.

But here’s the thing: Taking care of yourself ensures everything, and everyone else will get the best, most productive version of yourself.

How do you make taking care of yourself a priority again though?

7 Scientific Reasons You Should Try Meatless Monday

by Caitlin H,

Mar 20, 2023

Burgers, steak, lamb chops — red meat is a staple of the American diet.

While it may be unreasonable to cut it out of your diet completely, going vegetarian at least one day a week can go a long way toward improving your health. That’s why we outlined seven scientific reasons why you should try Meatless Monday and reap all the benefits of reducing your meat consumption.

Reverse Your Prediabetes With These 5 Tips

by Caitlin H,

Mar 13, 2023

Prediabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. It could be considered a blessing in disguise. Knowing that you have it allows you to make new, healthier choices to reverse the condition and hopefully help you avoid developing Type 2 Diabetes.

Simple Ways to Tell if Your Food is Nutritious

by Caitlin H,

Mar 6, 2023

Proper nutrition is one of the most important ways to ensure you lead a healthy, happy, long life. In fact, studies show that eating a balanced diet plays a role in all sorts of things. 

It can be challenging to know whether your food is nutritious. Labels can be confusing if you’re not a nutrition expert, and honestly, how many of us are? But don’t stress! Check out our easy to follow beginner’s guide to deciphering food labels.

8 Essential Elements for a Healthier Heart

by Caitlin H,

Feb 27, 2023

February is American Heart Month, an annual observance of the importance of cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association and all health providers use the month to remind us to engage in healthy habits that reduce our heart disease risk.

That’s why the American Heart Association (AHA) identifies these eight essential elements to better heart health. Read on to learn more!

Break That Snacking Habit with These Expert Tips

by Caitlin H,

Feb 20, 2023

It’s 8 p.m., and you’re enjoying your favorite TV show or cozied up on the couch with a good book. Then, you get up and find yourself standing in the kitchen, reaching for a handful of chips or a couple of cookies.

If this sounds all-too-familiar, you’re not alone. Mindless snacking is a habit many of us deal with daily, whether sitting at the office (or home office), perusing social media, or even snuggling up in bed.

Thankfully, there are ways you can cut back on snacking.

10 Delicious, Healthy Dinners to Wow Your Sweetheart

by Caitlin H,

Feb 14, 2023

Did you remember Valentine’s Day? If you or your sweetie are trying to eat healthily, why not keep the momentum going by whipping up a delicious dinner?

Want to try a new recipe to surprise your sweetie for Valentine’s Day (or any day)? We’ve got your covered with some tasty choices! Bon appétit!

7 Ways to Make the Most of Your First Day at the Gym

by Caitlin H,

Feb 6, 2023

You did it. You committed to your health and fitness and signed up for a gym membership. And now, it’s time to step into that world of weights and cardio machines for the first time. It can feel pretty darn intimidating. That’s more than okay. It’s a brand new situation, and doing anything for the first time can be nerve-wracking.

Thankfully, the gym is actually a place you can have fun and spend time — you just have to set yourself up for success before showing up for the first time.

These 5 Simple Dietary Swaps Could Lengthen Your Life

by Caitlin H,

Jan 30, 2023

If the potential of adding years to your life by making small changes appeals to you, listen up.

Improving the quality of foods you eat daily — even just a little — can extend your life, no matter how old you are.  Making some simple swaps to your overall diet can improve your nutritional intake — and maybe even add years to your life!

Step Outside Your Comfort Zone This Year

by Caitlin H,

Jan 23, 2023

The new year is often when we think about hitting the reset button on some (or several!) aspects of our lives. We consider our intentions, set goals, and start doing what we can to achieve them.

This year, consider the following: How often do you set a goal to do something extraordinary that will give you a sense of true exhilaration?

Maybe it’s time to step outside your comfort zone and live life to the fullest!

8 Simple Ways Women Can Move More While At Home

by Caitlin H,

Jan 16, 2023

You’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again; physical activity is crucial to controlling your weight, gaining healthful benefits, and expanding your lifespan. 

A recent study found that physical activity was associated with a lower risk of death for women. By participating in daily activity of any intensity, a woman could lengthen her expected lifetime. Fitness guru, Dr. Gabe Mirkin tells us “You do not need to have a specific exercise program to stay fit, you just need to keep on moving for a large part of each day.” That’s good news if you’re not a big fan of what we traditionally associate with exercise.

So, what can you do to make sure you can keep your body in motion each and every day? We have 8 simple ideas for you! (Men, you can do these things, too!)

Ready in just 20 minutes, these vegetarian nachos are the perfect appetizer for a party or an easy, quick weeknight dinner. Loaded with black beans, cheese, and veggies like bell pepper, tomato, and red onion, they are sure to satisfy!

Why I love this Recipe

When it comes to finding the perfect appetizer that can please a crowd at a party or serve as a quick and easy weeknight dinner option, these vegetarian nachos are my go-to recipe. They tick all the boxes for me in terms of taste, satisfaction, convenience, versatility, and nutrition.

What sets these loaded nachos apart is the harmonious combination of wholesome ingredients. The black beans bring a hearty and protein-packed element to the dish, while the melted cheese adds a comforting and indulgent touch.

The real star of the show, however, is the colorful medley of veggies: bell peppers, tomatoes, and red onions. Not only do they provide a burst of freshness, but they also contribute to the vibrant visual appeal of the nachos.

Each bite offers a symphony of flavors, with the creamy beans, gooey cheese, and crisp veggies blending together perfectly.

Plus, these nachos are totally customizable. Using whatever veggies you have on hand or are in-season. And choose whichever toppings strike your tastebuds the most!

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick dinner option, these loaded vegetarian nachos are sure to satisfy your cravings while impressing your guests with their deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the nachos:

Optional toppings:

Notes on Ingredients

Tortilla chips: Crunchy and salty – the provide flavor and texture
Black beans: Earthy, slightly nutty flavor, adds protein and creaminess. Could opt for pinto beans if you prefer!
Cheddar cheese: Rich, sharp flavor, melts beautifully, adds tangy kick – make sure to grab thick-cut cheese for better melting!
Monterey jack cheese: Creamy, mild flavor, melts well, balances cheddar cheese – opt for thick-cut vs. finely shredded
Red bell pepper: Sweet, slightly tangy flavor, adds crunch and vibrant color.
Tomatoes: Juicy, bright flavor, adds freshness and zesty taste. I used tomatoes on the vine for these but beefsteak tomatoes would work too.
Red onion: Sharp, pungent flavor, adds crunch and depth to the dish.

Optional toppings:

Salsa: Tangy, slightly spicy kick, adds freshness.
Guacamole or diced avocado: Creamy, nutty flavor, adds richness and creamy texture.
Pickled jalapeño: Vinegary, spicy punch, adds tangy heat.
Cilantro: Bright, herbaceous note, adds freshness and citrusy flavor.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Creamy, tangy element, balances heat.
Limes: Zesty, citrusy touch, enhances flavors and adds brightness.

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

How to Make Vegetarian Nachos 

To prep: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cover a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Start with the tortilla chips as your base. Spread the tortilla chips evenly on the lined baking sheet, making sure to minimize any gaps between the chips.
Add beans and cheese. Pour the black beans on top of the chips, spreading them out as evenly as possible. Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the beans, making sure they are evenly distributed.
Add veggies. Scatter the diced bell pepper, tomatoes, and onion over the cheese layer.
Bake nachos. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the nachos until the cheese is melted and the edges of the chips start to turn slightly golden, usually around 10 to 15 minutes.
Add your toppings! Once the nachos are baked, you can add your choice of toppings of choice. Consider options like salsa, guacamole or diced avocado, pickled jalapenos, cilantro, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Expert Tips

1. Beans first, then cheese! To ensure that every chip is loaded with toppings and flavors, try layering the ingredients strategically. Start by spreading a layer of tortilla chips on the baking sheet, then evenly distribute the black beans, followed by a layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

This layering technique helps to ensure that each chip gets a delicious combination of beans and cheese. The melted cheese helps the beans stick to the chips!

Finally, sprinkle the diced bell pepper, tomatoes, and onion over the cheese layer. This method ensures even distribution and prevents any ingredients from getting lost in the mix.

2. Customize your toppings! While the recipe provides a list of optional toppings, feel free to get creative and customize the toppings based on your preferences.

Experiment with different combinations such as adding sliced black olives, fresh jalapeño slices, or a sprinkle of your favorite spices like cumin or paprika. You can also consider adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of tangy salsa for an extra kick of flavor.

Customizing the toppings allows you to tailor the nachos to your personal taste and create a unique flavor profile.

3. Check the nachos starting at the 10 minute mark! To achieve perfectly melted cheese and crispy yet not overly browned chips, keep a close eye on the nachos while they are in the oven. Baking times can vary depending on the oven and the thickness of the chips.

Check the nachos frequently after the 10-minute mark to ensure the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chips are just starting to turn golden brown.

Be cautious not to over bake, as this can result in burnt chips and overly dry toppings. Timing is key to achieving the perfect balance of textures and flavors in your vegetarian nachos.

Recipe FAQs

1. How do you keep sheet pan nachos from getting soggy?

To prevent your sheet pan nachos from becoming soggy, it’s important to minimize the moisture content of the toppings. One way to do this is by draining and rinsing canned ingredients, like black beans, to remove excess liquid.

Additionally, avoid using overly watery toppings or sauces that can make the chips soggy. It’s also helpful to bake the nachos at a high temperature, which helps to crisp up the chips and evaporate any excess moisture.

You can also serve toppings like sour cream and salsa on the side instead of dolloping them on top of the actual nachos, which will contribute to sogginess. 

 

Storage and Preparation 

If you have leftover nachos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to ensure freshness and taste. If you have any leftover toppings, store them separately in individual airtight containers. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from affecting the texture of the nachos.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover nachos, you can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or air fryer.

For the oven, preheat it to around 350 degrees Fahrenheit, place the nachos on a baking sheet, and heat them until warmed through.

For the microwave, transfer the nachos to a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals (15-30 seconds), checking in-between, until they are heated to your desired temperature.

My favorite way to reheat nachos is the air fryer because it helps to crisp up those chips again! Add nachos to the air fryer basket and heat and cook at 350 degrees F for 3-4 minutes, or until cheese is melted and chips are crispy. The only downside to reheating in the air fryer is it’s a little messier and requires you to clean out the air fryer basket thoroughly.

Remember that the texture of the nachos may change slightly upon reheating, as the chips may lose some of their crispness. However, they can still be quite enjoyable as a leftover snack or meal. Just make sure to consume them within a reasonable time frame to maintain their quality.

Recipes That Pair Well

For more sheet pan recipe inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

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4-Week Healthy Summer Meal Plan With Grocery List – The Real Food Dietitians

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At Eminence Organic Skin Care, we believe in the power of nature; as such, we strive to provide the best organic skin care products to our customers. As leaders in the industry, we are proud and grateful to be recognized with awards acknowledging our passion for creating high-quality, organic products. Here are the latest awards that we have been honored with:

Best Revitalizing Mask | Best Exfoliator | Best Peptide Face Product | Favorite Body Sunscreen | Favorite Acne Cleanser | Favorite Hydrating Toner | Best Organic | ISPA Innovate Award

Best Revitalizing Mask: Eight Greens Phyto Masque – Hot

With an innovative hot formula, it’s no surprise that Spa & Wellness Mexicaribe recognized this spicy mask for their 2022 Product Award. Not only is it packed with phytoestrogens and antioxidants, this unique mask can help improve hydration, the look of elasticity and the appearance of signs of aging. Plus, the warmth that comes from the mask gives the skin a nice rosy glow.

Actress Tessa Thompson is a fan too, telling us: “Eminence’s Eight Greens Phyto Masque is really spicy and fantastic. You feel like you have baby skin after applying it.” 

Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe (circulation 16,000) is the magazine for spa industry professionals and wellness enthusiasts across Mexico, the Caribbean and Latin America, where they know about spicy! Providing the latest information on global spa trends, news, events, products and services, new launches and the growing community of spa and wellness professionals in an expanding industry.

Best Exfoliator: Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant™

This product has been winning awards year after year, and Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe honored it again in 2022. Fans and beauty insiders rave about its light fizzing action and revitalizing formula that gently invigorates the skin and removes impurities to reveal a beautiful, brighter-looking complexion. 

Best Peptide Face Product: Marine Flower Peptide Concentrate

We hear a lot about peptides these days. These small proteins penetrate the skin to moisturize, help smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles and promote the appearance of firmness and elasticity. Applying skin care ingredients with peptides signals to the cells to make new collagen, which in turn promotes a firmer and healthier-looking complexion. 

Product Picks

DERMASCOPE Magazine is a leading professional skin care publication, examining various industry educational topics. Almost 90% of the magazine’s readers are estheticians or spa owners who use the magazine as a reference tool for their businesses. 

DERMASCOPE’s annual Aestheticians’ Choice Awards honors the best of beauty – brands, products and people in the professional skin care industry. Every nomination is esthetician approved and the winners are selected through a month-long voting campaign, where DERMASCOPE readers cast votes for their favorite products. Three Eminence Organics products were winners in their categories.

Favorite Body Sunscreen: Lilikoi Mineral Defense Sport Sunscreen SPF 30

With its easy-to-apply, non-greasy and water-resistant formula, it’s no wonder this mineral sunscreen is getting its place in the sun. Highly effective for outdoor activities like swimming and high-performance sports where perspiration can impact standard sunscreen efficacy, this zinc oxide sunscreen protects from head to toe, which makes it ideal on hot, humid and active days. And our customers agree. Mireille says: “I love this product! I didn’t burn at all! It is easy to apply, is not greasy at all and it smells amazing!! I am so happy to have found an effective and natural sunscreen!”

Favorite Acne Cleanser: Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser

Another multiple award-winner, this cleanser’s ingredient list includes cucumber juice, yogurt and sweet almond milk. For both adolescent and adult complexions, this clarifying gel-cream cleanser treats oily and problem skin, and reduces the visible signs of breakouts without stripping the skin of moisture.

Favorite Hydrating Toner: Stone Crop Hydrating Mist

The 5-star rating from our customers and the long list of awards this product has received speak for themselves. Loved for its amazing smell, refreshing hydration and healing properties, this unique mist is a staple for so many. 

Product Picks

Winner of Organic Category: Bearberry Eye Repair Cream

We are honored to have been recognized by Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa (LNE), one of the leading magazines for skin care and spa professionals. LNE & Spa’s Best Product Awards 2023 winners are chosen by professional estheticians and spa employees. This community of educators, therapists, owners and writers who join together in knowledge to propel professionals and their businesses to the next level. 

Being awarded in the organic category is especially gratifying for Eminence Organic Skin Care. We pride ourselves on creating exceptional products that are good for the body and the planet. Our Bearberry Eye Repair Cream takes it to the next level with Biodynamic® ingredients, known for their potency and high levels of  vitamins, nutrients and active compounds. This type of farming is an ancient method that yields healthier, cleaner, more sustainable crops than traditional organic farming. 

ISPA Innovate Award 2022: Philanthropy 

The ISPA Innovate Awards highlight remarkable changes and creativity implemented by ISPA members in 2022 in three categories: business practices, philanthropy and technology. 

Eminence was recently honored with our sixth consecutive Innovate Award from the International Spa Association, winning the 2022 ISPA Innovate Award in the Philanthropy category. This many consecutive wins is unprecedented, and we are proud to be viewed as innovators in the industry for our products and philanthropy.

As part of our Forests for the Future™ initiative, Eminence plants a tree for every retail product sold, allowing us to contribute to global reforestation efforts while supporting communities in developing countries. In addition to planting trees, we are also proud to champion additional environmental sustainability initiatives.

We recently announced that Eminence, through Forests for the Future, has funded the installation of water catchment systems in drought-ravaged Singida, Tanzania, in a bid to increase water access for farmers in the region. This is the project that earned us the 2022 ISPA Innovate Award in the Philanthropy category! 

Have you experienced our award-winning skin care products? You can learn more on our Awards page or by visiting your nearest Eminence Organics Spa Partner. If you’re a spa owner, learn more about how you can partner with Eminence Organics.

Greek Quinoa Salad with Avocado (Healthy and Quick) – The Real Food Dietitians

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When you think of acne treatments, odds are salicylic acid comes to mind. This beta-hydroxy acid has a long history of treating acne effectively, efficiently — and gently. By exfoliating skin, deep cleaning pores and preventing future breakouts, this superstar skin care ingredient does wonders for those suffering from acne. Salicylic acid helps clear acne and prevent future breakouts without irritation. Read on to discover how.

BHA

Unlike AHAs which are water soluble and work primarily on the skin’s surface, BHAs like salicylic acid are oil soluble. This characteristic allows them to penetrate below the skin’s surface and dive deep into your pores. According to ELLE, “not only do they exfoliate the top layer of skin, but they can penetrate blocked pores by making their way into the oil glands, dissolving the paste-like mixture of sebum and dead skin that can lead to spots.” By penetrating pores more deeply, BHAs are able to clear blockages as well as destroy acne-causing bacteria lingering within the pore.

Exfoliates Skin

One feature of acne-prone skin is that it doesn’t self-exfoliate efficiently. Women’s Health says that as a result, “dead skin clumps together instead of sloughing off — leading to more pimples and blackheads.” Salicylic acid counteracts this by dissolving the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together. By removing and loosening the bonds between skin cells, salicylic acid helps skin shed its outer layer, clearing it of pore-clogging debris.

Deep Cleans Pores

In addition to exfoliating the skin’s surface, salicylic acid permeates the pore lining, working to clear the dead skin cells that have built up and caused congestion. According to Marie Claire, “The reason salicylic acid is able to give such a deep clean is because it can penetrate deep into the pore lining… It’s therefore able to exfoliate inside the pore as well as the surface of the skin, helping to clear congested skin.”

The reason salicylic acid is able to give such a deep clean is because it can penetrate deep into the pore lining.

Anti-Irritant

Whitney Bowe, MD tells Teen Vogue about salicylic acid: “This ingredient is unique because it’s very effective at fighting acne, but it has a soothing, calming effect on skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of this ingredient are not surprising, given its close chemical relationship to one of the most well-known anti-inflammatory drugs available, acetylsalicylic acid (also known as aspirin).” As an anti-irritant, salicylic acid is able to exfoliate and deep clean pores while also reducing redness and calming angry skin — two common acne-related issues.

If you are prone to irritation, look for salicylic acid with a time-release encapsulated delivery system. The encapsulation helps the salicylic acid evenly deposit and slowly exfoliate skin over time, keeping the look of the complexion calm. The result: Skin is cleared quickly and effectively, without the look of irritation associated with other acne-fighting ingredients.

Prevents Future Breakouts

Not only does salicylic acid fight existing breakouts, it also prevents future ones from occurring. According to Vogue: “Because it is oil-soluble, BHA is great at clearing pores of sebum and dirt without manual exfoliation. As well as treating existing blemishes, it also helps to prevent future breakouts by neutralizing bacteria within the pores before it has the chance to develop into spots.” With regular use, adding salicylic acid to your skin care routine helps your skin become clear and remain breakout-free for longer.

The Best Products With Salicylic Acid

 

1. Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser 

Our Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser is crafted with yogurt, cucumber and tea tree oil to manage oily skin and mattify the complexion. It does so without stripping the skin of moisture. This cleanser also contains a Biocomplex2™ which is a booster of antioxidants that improves the appearance of vitality and radiance.

2. Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator

The Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator is an ultra-lightweight mattifying lotion containing salicylic acid to reduce blemishes and breakouts. This hydrator gives you a more even-looking complexion and improves the appearance of acne-related scarring. You can also find this hydrator as part of our Acne Advanced 3-Step Treatment System, which treats acne in 28* days. 

3. Clear Skin Willow Bark Exfoliating Peel

The Clear Skin Willow Bark Exfoliating Peel helps to treat problem skin with breakouts and blemishes. Gentle salicylic acid removes surface impurities and dirt, helping clear your complexion. This peel also features willow bark which calms the look of skin, and lilac and azelaic acid which reduce the appearance of redness. 

4. Clear Skin Probiotic Masque

The Clear Skin Probiotic Masque helps problem skin thanks to cucumber, refining yogurt and salicylic acid. This rich mask also leaves the skin feeling soft and noticeably smoother while reducing the appearance of pores. 

Experience the benefits of salicylic acid with the above products, or in a professional acne facial at your favorite Eminence Organics Spa Partner. 

*In vivo clinical study results, based on application of the complete system for 28 days.

This article was originally written in September 2018.

Big events give us something to look forward to, but preparing for them can also be a source of stress. The pressure to look great on one, specific day is overwhelming at times. While most of us have a big event on the books maybe once a year, celebrities are preparing for them constantly. Between red-carpet appearances, awards shows, and performances, they’re no strangers to feeling the pressure!

I’ve had the privilege of being Demi Lovato’s longtime esthetician, and I’ve helped prepare her skin for countless events. She was recently featured in Vogue for the look she debuted at the Scream 6 premiere. (Demi is a major horror film buff and even wrote a song for the movie!) She spoke about what inspired her look, but she also touched on how she prepped her skin for all that glam.

Demi is so fastidious about her skin and puts a lot of work into it. It’s been a real honor that she’s trusted me to help keep her glowing all these years. Seeing her talk about the products she used to get ready for the premiere inspired me to share some of the tips I give my clients. Keep scrolling to learn how to get glowing before your next big event! 

In the Week Leading Up To Your Event

There are a number of things you can do (and, more specifically, not do) to ensure you’re looking healthy and glowing for your special event.

Limit Certain Foods to Curb Puffiness 

To be clear, no amount of green juice or “clean eating” in the week leading up to an event is going to have much of an impact on your skin. It’s always great to include nutritious foods that are high in antioxidants ahead of the big day (and in general!), but I never advocate dramatically changing your diet in preparation for one, specific day. 

When it comes to foods impacting your skin in the short term, it’s more about what you don’t eat.

Dairy

For clients prone to acne, especially hormonal acne, I always recommend limiting dairy intake during this week. It’s possible for dairy to trigger cystic breakouts, so going easy here can help reduce the chances of a flare-up. Some people’s breakouts are also triggered by high amounts of sugar, so keep sweets to a minimum. 

Alcohol and Sodium

The other two foods to watch during this week are alcohol and sodium. Both can lead to puffiness, and excessive alcohol consumption can cause dehydration. 

Speaking of puffiness, here’s how to manage under-eye puffiness. 

Avoid Professional Treatments 

Seeking out professional treatments ahead of a big event can be tempting, especially if your skin isn’t quite where you want it to be. But if you’re going to do any treatments, they should be done WELL in advance. This is especially true if it’s a treatment you’ve never tried before.

Whether it’s laser, microneedling, injectables, a chemical peel, extractions, or anything in between, be sure to get your treatment at least a month or two out. 

Don’t Try New Skincare Products

During the week leading up to a big event, the last thing you want to do is experiment with new skincare products. Trust me, consistency is key. By trying something new, you risk having a negative reaction that could take a while to correct. 

Focus on Soothing Hydration 

In general, the focus this week should be on keeping the skin hydrated and soothed. Don’t throw too many strong active ingredients at it. The goal is to have smooth, moisturized skin as a canvas for your makeup look. You don’t want to risk irritation as this can lead to bumpy, red, or textured skin. 

One great way to prepare during this time is to up your use of a hydrating mask. If you’re breakout-prone, try Rapid Response Detox Masque. Otherwise, you can reach for the ultra-soothing Bio Calm Repair Masque. Both of these are gel-based, and using them multiple times a week will increase the water content in your skin to make it nice and bouncy. If you struggle with puffiness, you can also keep them in the fridge for an extra cooling effect. 

Consider Cutting Back on Retinoids

Retinoids are hands-down one of the best ingredients for beautiful, glowing skin. But if you use a prescription, you know all too well that dryness and flakiness can be side effects. If this tends to happen to you, I suggest cutting your retinoid out a week ahead of your event. You can add it back in right after, but this will ensure your skin is smooth and flake-free for your important day. 

Exfoliate

Speaking of keeping skin smooth and flake-free, exfoliation is key. If I’m not personally giving Demi a facial, I’ll have her do the Triple Berry Smoothing Peel two days before her event. This has been one of her favorite masks since it launched, and she uses it faithfully! I’m really proud of this peel because it gives professional results at home without irritating the skin. (Again, make sure you’ve used it before, and don’t try anything new right before your event.)

The reason you don’t want to do a peel the day before an event is that it can sometimes cause a little flaking the following day as old cells slough off. By doing the peel two days out, you’ll ensure those old, expired cells are shed to reveal brighter skin underneath, just in time for your event. 

To help those expired cells along, you can also use a physical scrub like Triple Berry Smoothing Scrub. Try using it the day after doing the peel for what I like to call the two-step exfoliation method. This basically speeds up the exfoliation process and is a great way to quickly achieve brighter-looking skin. 

If You Get a Pimple, No Picking!!

I know it’s so stressful to get a zit in the week leading up to an event, and this makes the urge to mess with it stronger than ever. But the worst thing you can do in this situation is pick at your skin! Having a blemish is no fun, but trust me, it’s much easier to cover with makeup than a scab or a wound. 

If you do have a blemish, faithfully apply Anti Bump Solution, which is non-drying. You can also use a high-frequency wand to shrink it using the “sparking” method, as demonstrated on my own chin breakout here. 

If you do still have a blemish the day of, apply a non-drying cortisone cream. Once it’s dry, apply moisturizer on top. The cortisone cream will help with redness and swelling, which will make it less obvious so that it can be easily disguised with makeup. 

Skin Care the Day Of Your Event

Once the big day arrives, you’ll want to keep things simple.

Stay Hydrated and Boost Your Circulation

On the day of your event, you’ll want to focus on getting plenty of hydration both inside and out! Our skin looks best when it has good circulation, so if you can, make time to go for a walk or do some yoga (or a workout of your choice) to get your breath flowing. This can also help calm any nerves you may be feeling. 

If you’re pressed for time and can’t fit a workout in, try my 2-minute trick for glowing skin.

At-Home Tools

If you’re a fan of at-home devices, focus on the ones that will create a visible change for the big day.

My personal favorite is handheld microcurrent devices. They help bring a more lifted appearance to the face, and they can also help a bit with de-puffing. You’ll get the best results by starting to use your device at least ten days before an event, but most people will also see a positive change by using it day of.

Another option is gua sha or other massage tools. These are great for lymphatic drainage massage, which is great for a dewier complexion because it stimulates circulation and blood flow to bring more nutrients to the skin. That said, if you’re very prone to redness or have lots of active breakouts, I would skip this.

Keep Your Skincare Simple

The most important thing today is that your skincare is compatible with your makeup. The goal is wearability and longevity, so I prefer avoiding too many oils. These can make your makeup slip around. You also don’t want your makeup pilling, which can start to happen if you layer too many skincare products underneath. For these reasons, I usually recommend that clients keep their makeup-prep skincare super simple, and Demi definitely follows this advice. 

After cleansing your skin, I keep it to around four products.

A Hydrating Mask

The morning of, use whichever hydrating gel mask you’ve been using to start things off on the right foot.

An Essence Toner

Once you’ve rinsed off your mask, move on to an essence. An essence is basically just an amped-up toner, and it deeply infuses your skin with hydration. Again, hydration is the name of the game because it’s key to your makeup looking seamless. My go-to is Moisture Infusion Toner.

Moisturizer

Next up, a moisturizer for your skin type.

Those with oily/combination skin should use something with a lotion texture as opposed to a heavy cream. Demi is a Skin Type 2 (on the oilier side), and her standby for the red carpet is Sheer Moisture Lotion. “…Sheer Moisture Lotion…has my skin clean, prepped, and ready with a nice glow before I start glam,” she said.

If your skin leans dry, try something a little thicker, like the Glow Enhancing Creme. This moisturizer was formulated to bring out your inner glow, and it’s moisturizing without being sticky or greasy

A Brightening Eye Cream

Last but not least, a brightening eye cream. Another product Demi swears by when she’s prepping her skin for makeup is the Vitamin C Eye Brightener. It reduces dark under-eyes over time, but it also has light-reflecting properties that make this area look instantly brighter. Its lightweight texture makes it perfect under concealer

Also, this is the only time you’ll ever hear me say this, but it’s okay to skip sunscreen just this once! SPF should normally be the star of the show, but today, it’s all about the glam. I hope these tips helped and that they allow you to focus on the fun and excitement of your big day.