by Madeline Mars | Apr 8, 2026 | Skincare Tips & Routines
Retinol irritation is one of the most common challenges in skincare, even when retinoids are highly effective. This perspective comes from Dr. Valerie Hanft, dermatologist and former Chief Medical Officer of AO2 SKIN, who continues to serve on our advisory board. A...
by Madeline Mars | Jun 24, 2025 | Acne Education
What Is C. acnes? Let’s start with the basics.C. acnes—short for Cutibacterium acnes—is a type of bacteria that naturally lives on your skin. In small amounts, it’s harmless. But when it becomes trapped in a pore that’s low in oxygen (a common condition in acne-prone...
by Madeline Mars | Jun 11, 2025 | Acne Education
Understanding the "Purge" Starting a new acne treatment can feel like a leap of faith—especially when your skin seems to get worse before it gets better. That sudden flare-up? Some people might call this the purge, and while it’s frustrating, it’s also a normal part...
by Madeline Mars | Jun 6, 2025 | Clean Beauty & Ingredient Education
Let’s Clear Up the Confusion “Non-toxic.” It’s on your serum, your moisturizer, even your lip balm. But what does non-toxic skincare mean, and who decides what counts? The short answer: no one. The term “non-toxic” isn’t regulated by the FDA or any official skincare...
by Madeline Mars | Jun 5, 2025 | Skincare Tips & Routines
Your Skin Can’t Heal Without It You’ve tried acids, serums, exfoliants, and fancy oils—but your skin still feels inflamed, sensitive, or stuck in a breakout cycle. If nothing seems to truly calm your skin, you might be missing one of the most overlooked elements in...
