Tuesday

"I am grateful for a wonderful day."

It’s Tuesday! Today, we're chatting about:

• What to know about fungal acne

• Do press-ons damage your nails?

• Last-minute gifts for the sports lover in your life

• Must-know tips to keep your lips moisturized in the winter

What is Fungal Acne?

Acne can be painful, irritating, and annoying, to say the least. Many people struggle with acne at some point or another.

However, acne can have many different causes — and the thing that’s sparking your acne can greatly influence how you treat it.

One form of acne people may not typically think about is called “fungal acne.” Formally known as “Malalssezia folliculitis,” this is caused by an infection of hair follicles. The name comes from the kind of fungus, Malalassezia furfur yeast, which infects the skin.

The Malalassezia yeast naturally lives on the skin. However, when it overgrows, it can cause fungal acne.

Signs of fungal acne that may distinguish it from other forms of acne include:

• Burning or itching

• Red rings or borders around the bumps

• Pimples that form in clusters, almost like a rash

It may also not appear on the face (although it can) and is more common on body parts including the back, chest, arms, and shoulders.

Fungal acne is generally treatable by an over-the-counter or prescription treatment. It’s a good idea to chat with a professional to get a diagnosis and care for your skin.

To help prevent fungal acne, shower after getting sweaty and don’t sit in wet clothes, as yeast thrives in a wet, warm environment.

Do Press-Ons Damage Your Nails?

Press-on nails have had a surge in popularity in recent years. They’re loved for their affordability, easy application, and fun designs at a fraction of the cost of professional services!

But how do they affect your actual nails?

Experts say most of it comes down to how you apply and remove press-on nails.

For example, applying them too tightly to your natural nail can put “excessive pressure” on it, causing dents and damage that can prevent new growth, Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago, told SELF.

Furthermore, they may trap moisture, which can create an optimal environment for bacteria and yeast to grow — leading to potential infections.

Taking your press-ons off incorrectly can also damage your nail. Ripping them off can scrape off the top layer of your natural nail, which can be painful and cause bumps and weakness.

If you use press-on nails, experts agree that stick-ons are a better option than those that rely on glue, as they’ll be gentler on your natural nails.

However, as long as you’re careful, press-ons can be a simple way to experiment with color and style in your manicure!

Let the Gifting Begin: Score Big with Nike’s Holiday Must-Haves

No matter who’s on your list this holiday season, Nike’s got something for everyone. From bold streetwear styles to winter-proof running shoes and everyday activewear, each gift is designed to move with them. Treat your loved ones to Nike’s most-loved holiday essentials—and help them unwrap greatness this season.

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Thank you to Nike for sponsoring Note To Self.

How to Keep Your Lips Moisturized in the Winter

With winter comes cold, dry air — and that can cause chapped, cracked lips.

Chapped lips may lead us into a neverending cycle of picking at dead skin, applying lip balms, and licking to try and get some relief.

Luckily, you don’t have to let dry, chapped lips ruin the season. Here are some expert tips to keep yours soft, smooth, and moisturized:

• Avoid irritants: Fragrances, acids, and ingredients like eucalyptus, cinnamon, and peppermint can cause further irritation to dry lips.

• Search for soothing and moisturizing ingredients: Petroleum jelly, castor seed oil, hemp seed oil, and shea butter are some dermatologist-backed favorites.

• Be strategic about when you apply: While you can apply lip balm at any time, it can be helpful to put it on right before you go outside and head to bed. This can help seal in moisture and protect your lips.

• Stay hydrated — and consider a humidifier: A lack of moisture is one of the top causes of dry lips. Drink plenty of water, and consider a humidifier to help prevent dry air in your home.

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: Low humidity and cold weather are two factors that can cause dry skin in winter!

• 🎁 Our Holiday Self-Care Picks: Don’t forget to check out our 2024 gift guide, a collection of thoughtful, wellness-focused products that help you feel your best, inside and out. Shop our gift guide here!

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Take some time to show your skin some extra love as the air is dry and cooler this time of year.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!