I would be remiss if I didn’t share some recent mishaps with you. Why not benefit from my mistakes? If you take away one thing from this, it should be skin care awareness. And, of course, the importance of doing as I say now, not as I did then.

Lesson #1:  Not all dermatologists are created equal.

I realize I may be a little overzealous but … I truly look forward to visiting the dermatologist. I do. It’s a chance for me to learn more about my skin and how I can best take care of it. It’s also a chance to learn about the latest technology in treatments and skin care products. Unfortunately, I was greatly disappointed by my last visit. Let me preface this by saying I recently switched derm docs. I thought I was doing all of the right things — asking around, researching online, etc. Apparently, that wasn’t enough. I found a nearby dermatologist who has 20+ years of experience in this particular practice. He’s quite credentialed, as well. Honestly, he looked perfect on paper.

He was far from perfect. He couldn’t answer many of my questions — gave me that deer-in-the-headlights look with responses such as “Well, what do you think?” [Um, I wouldn't be here if I knew.] I walked away with a feeling of frustration. That’s not how a trip to the dermatologist should be. Especially for me, when I sincerely look forward to it every year. It’s extremely important to find a doctor with whom you click, as well as one that will continue to educate you on how to best care for your skin. Lesson learned.

Lesson #2:  Don’t use expired products. Ever. Seriously. I mean it.

You would think of all people I would realize the importance of an expiration date. I know to throw away mascara after 2-3 months. I know eyeliners aren’t safe to use after 6 months. Why did I not realize that a liquid highlighting concealer (YSL Touche eclat) is no good after a year? Well, it might have been more like two … for shame, for shame.

Not having used my concealer, in like forever, I thought it would be nice to whip it out and highlight my inner eyes. Mistake. Big mistake. Almost immediately my eyes began to itch. And did I see or feel the signs enough to wash it off my face immediately? Of course not. I proceeded to wear it all day, not having a clue what could be causing my skin irritation. Later that night, the skin underneath my eyes began to swell and turn bright red. The next morning — red bumps, to boot! I looked like I had been double whammied in the eyes!

Of course I threw out the product and vowed to practice what I preach. Bacteria seeps into products faster than you think. And any product used around your eyes is more susceptible. Lesson learned.