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Shani Darden is a Hollywood skincare guru known for her impressive A-list client roster (Jessica Alba, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Chrissy Teigen, are fans) and quick-fix treatments for major events. Building on her success, the LA-based esthetician has developed her own line of products called Resurface by Shani Darden, and RHW is already raving about the retinol serum.
During our recent sit-down with Lea Michele, she told us that Darden single-handedly saved her skin, so naturally we wanted to meet the woman behind the praise. We asked Shani to share a few of her trade secrets with us, including some simple ways to keep your skin clear, dealing with those damn under-eye bags, and what treatment is really worth splurging on.
Any tricks you use to get your celeb clients red carpet-ready?
Right before a red carpet event, I like to do a light chemical peel to give my clients’s skin an amazing glow.
What are some of the simplest things you can do to keep your skin young and clear?
Cleanse your skin in the morning and at night. Any makeup residue left behind can cause breakouts. Protect your skin from the sun. Sun exposure ages your skin and is extremely hard to reverse later in life. Stay out of the sun as much as possible and always wear sunscreen. And make sure you’re using the correct products for your skin type.
What’s the best way to treat stubborn spots?
Don’t pick! Picking at pimples only makes them worse. You can push bacteria deeper into the pore causing a bigger pimple and more breakouts, as well as scarring. The best thing you can do for a pimple is to not touch it (as hard as that may be!). Use a sulfur mask or hydrocortisone cream as a spot treatment to help reduce inflammation and redness.
How do you recommend dealing with pesky under-eye circles and bags?
Unfortunately, dark under-eye circles tend to be hereditary, but making a point to ensure you’re getting enough sleep can help. I love using the NuFace Pro, which is a handheld microcurrent device, and iS Clinical Youth Eye Complex to combat bags under the eyes.
Which expensive facial treatment is worth the splurge?
LED Light Therapy! I love using LED light therapy with my clients. LED light is great for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, boosting collagen in the skin, and killing bacteria that causes acne.