By Lauren Kim at Allure Beauty Bar, Burnaby

Skin Dictionary

Skincare questions, answered simply. My approach starts with your skin as it is today, keeps recovery in mind, and adds treatment only when there is a clear reason.

General education, not a diagnosis or prescription. Advice for your own skin depends on your skin, medical history and current treatments.

Lauren Kim

Korean Skin Specialist & Founder of Allure Beauty Bar

Browse by skin concern

Sensitivity & Redness

What should I do if a new skincare routine makes my skin worse?

Pause the newly introduced products that are causing irritation and return to basics you know you tolerate.…

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Sensitivity & Redness

Can I put ice on a hot or irritated face?

Avoid direct ice and rubbing. A cool, soft compress may feel soothing, but a mask or very cold treatment is…

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Treatments & Recovery

My eczema has settled. Can I have a peel now?

I would not clear a peel from the fact that the flare looks quieter today. I would want the skin to be…

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Sensitivity & Redness

Why is my face itchy when there is no visible rash?

Itching alone does not tell us the cause. Check whether it started after skincare, hair products, or…

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Sensitivity & Redness

I have persistent bumps around my mouth. Should I use acne treatment?

Not every mouth-area eruption is acne. I would want to know what you apply there, including any steroid…

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Dryness & Dehydration

My skin became very dry around menopause. Do I need stronger anti-aging products?

I would assess the new dryness before increasing anti-aging products. A change in skin tolerance can make the…

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Sensitivity & Redness

My face feels hot even when I have not applied anything.

It helps to notice whether it happens with temperature changes, exercise, or at rest, and how long it lasts.…

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Sensitivity & Redness

Only my eyelids are red and flaky. Can I use my usual face cream?

I would be cautious about experimenting around the eyes. I would also check which products contact the area…

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Sensitivity & Redness

My neck is red after retinol. Should I use more moisturizer and continue?

I would pause the product causing the irritation rather than push through. The neck often tolerates retinoids…

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