7skin - Blog

Why Does Skin Become Oilier in Summer and How Can You Control It?

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 09:24:00 +0000

For many people, summer is associated with sunshine, relaxation, and a beautiful tan. However, when it comes to skincare, this season often brings new challenges. If you notice that your face becomes shiny just a few hours after your morning skincare routine, your pores appear more visible, and breakouts occur more frequently, you are not alone.

So why does skin become oilier during summer, and what can you do to keep it looking fresh and healthy throughout the day?

Why Does Sebum Production Increase in Summer?

When air temperatures rise, our bodies try to cool themselves down. At the same time, the sebaceous glands become more active and start producing more sebum, the skin's natural oil.

In addition, your skin is affected by several summer-related factors:

☀️ Higher temperatures and humidity

☀️ Increased sweating

☀️ The use of SPF products

☀️ Dust and environmental pollution

☀️ More frequent touching and wiping of the face

As a result, the skin may become shinier, pores can become clogged, and the risk of inflammation and breakouts may increase.

A Common Mistake Many People Make

When dealing with oily skin, many people try to remove as much oil as possible.

They often use harsh cleansers, alcohol-based toners, or wash their face too frequently.

Unfortunately, this often produces the opposite effect. When the skin becomes overly dry, it starts producing even more sebum in an attempt to restore its protective barrier. This creates a vicious cycle: the more aggressively you strip away oil, the oilier your skin becomes.

How to Control Oily Skin During Summer?

1. Choose Gentle Cleansing

Your skin needs effective yet gentle cleansing that removes excess sebum and impurities without damaging the skin barrier.

It is also worth considering products containing probiotics, which help maintain a healthy skin microbiome and reduce the risk of irritation.

2. Choose Skincare Products with Niacinamide

Niacinamide is one of the most popular ingredients for oily and combination skin.

It helps to:

✔️ regulate sebum production;

✔️ visibly reduce the appearance of pores;

✔️ minimize redness;

✔️ strengthen the skin barrier;

✔️ even out skin tone.

That is why niacinamide is an excellent choice for summer skincare.

3. Tea Tree Extract for Problematic Skin

If you experience more frequent breakouts during hot weather, tea tree extract can be a valuable ally.

It helps to:

✔️ reduce inflammation;

✔️ calm redness;

✔️ keep the skin clearer;

✔️ soothe irritated skin.

Tea tree extract is particularly suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.

4. Don't Forget About Zinc

Zinc is an ingredient that is often underestimated.

It helps:

✔️ regulate sebum production;

✔️ reduce inflammation;

✔️ support skin regeneration;

✔️ maintain clearer-looking skin.

That is why zinc is commonly found in products designed for oily and acne-prone skin.

5. Moisturize Oily Skin Too

One of the biggest skincare myths is that oily skin does not need a moisturizer.

In reality, dehydrated skin often becomes even oilier.

Choose lightweight gel moisturizers or lotions that provide hydration without feeling heavy on the skin.

6. Choose Lightweight SPF Products

Sun protection is essential for every skin type, including oily skin. However, during summer, rich and heavy SPF creams may feel uncomfortable and contribute to excess shine.

Look for:

✔️ lightweight fluids or gel creams;

✔️ non-comedogenic formulas;

✔️ mattifying SPF products designed for oily and combination skin.

A properly chosen SPF helps protect the skin from photoaging and pigmentation without feeling heavy.

7. Salicylic Acid for Cleaner Pores

During summer, pores are more likely to become clogged due to excess sebum, sweat, and environmental impurities. That is why products containing salicylic acid (BHA) can be especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin.

Salicylic acid helps:

✔️ unclog pores from within;

✔️ reduce blackheads;

✔️ minimize breakouts;

✔️ improve overall skin texture.

It is important to use salicylic acid according to your skin's needs and avoid excessive exfoliation.

The Summer Formula for Balanced Skin

If you want to reduce unwanted shine and keep your skin comfortable throughout the day, look for products containing:

• Niacinamide

• Tea Tree Extract

• Probiotics

• Zinc

• Salicylic Acid

• Lightweight SPF Filters

This combination of ingredients helps balance sebum production, support a healthy skin microbiome, and reduce the risk of breakouts.

Important to Remember

Oilier skin during summer is a completely normal response to heat and increased humidity. However, the right skincare routine can help control excess shine, reduce clogged pores, and keep your skin fresh, healthy, and comfortable throughout the season.

The goal is not to eliminate sebum completely, but to help the skin maintain a healthy balance.

Looking for products for oily and combination skin? Explore the 7skin.lv selection of products containing niacinamide, tea tree extract, probiotics, zinc, and salicylic acid — ingredients especially suitable for summer skincare.

Summer skincare: how to adapt your routine to maintain healthy, balanced, and radiant skin

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 11:28:00 +0000

Summer significantly changes the skin’s needs. Intense UV exposure, heat, sweating, salt and chlorinated water, as well as frequent temperature changes (air-conditioned environments), can affect the skin’s balance.

As a result, the skin may become dehydrated, more sensitive, uneven in tone, prone to excess sebum production, or pigmentation.

Therefore, the main summer goals are: protection, balance maintenance, and lightweight yet effective care.

What happens to the skin in summer?

During summer, the skin often experiences:

dehydration, even when it appears oily
increased sensitivity to UV exposure
risk of pigmentation spots
increased sebum production
stress on the skin barrier

Step 1: microbiome and sebum balance

In summer, the skin’s balance is often disrupted by heat and sweating.

Probiotics help:

strengthen the skin microbiome and barrier
reduce sensitivity and reactivity
decrease inflammation

Niacinamide acts as a regulatory active ingredient:

helps control sebum production
reduces pore visibility
evens skin tone
reduces redness

Step 2: antioxidant protection and pigmentation prevention

UV radiation is one of the main causes of premature skin aging and pigmentation in summer.

Vitamin C:

protects against oxidative stress
brightens the skin
stimulates collagen synthesis
evens out skin tone

Tranexamic acid (TXA):

reduces dark spots
prevents new pigmentation
improves post-acne marks
enhances overall skin clarity

Step 3: hydration and skin recovery

In hot weather, moisture evaporates faster, so multi-layer but lightweight hydration is essential.

Key ingredients:

hyaluronic acid — attracts moisture
ceramides — strengthen the skin barrier
lipids — restore the protective layer

PDRN:

promotes skin regeneration
improves elasticity and texture
restores tired, dehydrated skin
reduces sensitivity

Step 4: soothing and post-sun recovery

After UV exposure, the skin may become irritated, red, and sensitive.

Soothing ingredients:

Centella asiatica (CICA)
panthenol
ceramides

They help restore the skin barrier and reduce irritation.

Bakuchiol acts as a gentle alternative to retinol:

improves skin texture
stimulates collagen production
reduces fine lines
does not increase sun sensitivity

Step 5: skin firmness and “glow” effect

In summer, skin may lose firmness and appear less plump.

Volufiline:

improves skin firmness
gives a smoother, denser appearance
enhances elasticity
promotes a healthy glow effect

Step 6: lighter textures

Heavy products should be avoided in summer.

Recommended:

gel creams
lightweight moisturizers
serums with active ingredients

This helps maintain skin comfort in hot weather.

Step 7: daily SPF protection

SPF is the most important step in summer skincare.

Sun protection:

prevents premature aging
reduces pigmentation risk
protects collagen
maintains even skin tone

SPF 30–50 should be used daily, regardless of weather.

Ideal summer skincare routine

Gentle cleanser
Toner
Antioxidant serum (Vitamin C or niacinamide)
Hydrating serum (PDRN or hyaluronic acid)
Lightweight moisturizer
SPF 30–50

Conclusion

Summer skincare is based on three principles: protection, hydration, and maintaining skin balance. Properly selected active ingredients help keep the skin healthy, even, and radiant throughout the entire season.

We help you choose the most suitable products for your skin type: contact us, and we will create your personalized skincare routine together.

A mistake that most people make in spring is not using SPF products because the sun seems not strong enough

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 11:36:00 +0000

Many think: “There is no sun, so SPF is not needed.” However, the reality is different: UV radiation affects the skin every day, even when the sun is not visible and seems less intense.

An important point is that facial skin is especially sensitive in spring and needs additional protection.

Is SPF necessary on cloudy days?

Yes. There is a common belief that SPF is only needed on sunny days. However, up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds and still affect the skin, even when there is no direct sunlight sensation. This means that even on cloudy days, the skin is exposed to UV radiation.

What happens to the skin without SPF:

pigmentation appears
post-acne marks become more visible
skin becomes more sensitive
the aging process accelerates

The important thing is that these effects are not immediate, but become visible over time.

Why is SPF especially important in spring?

After winter, the skin becomes thinner, more sensitive, and has a weakened protective barrier, making it react more strongly to UV radiation.

In addition, skincare routines often include vitamin C products, more time is spent outdoors, and various cosmetic treatments are performed, which further increases skin sensitivity.

If your routine includes vitamin C, acids (AHA/BHA), or retinol, SPF is not an option — it is a necessity.

How to choose SPF in spring:

at least SPF 30 (ideally SPF 50)
lightweight texture
suitable for your skin type

For problematic skin — lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas.
For dry skin — products with moisturizing ingredients.

How to use SPF correctly:

every morning (even without sun)
as the last step of skincare
reapply during the day when outdoors

SPF is like insurance for your skin.

It is a daily habit for maintaining beautiful and healthy skin.

If you want to maintain an even skin tone, prevent pigmentation, and preserve youthful skin for longer — do not postpone SPF use. Start today.

5 Face Masks You Definitely Need to Try This Winter

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 12:46:00 +0000

During winter, the skin experiences increased stress due to cold weather, wind, temperature fluctuations, and dry indoor heating. As a result, the skin becomes dehydrated, more sensitive, prone to redness and flaking, the skin barrier weakens, and wrinkles become more pronounced.

That is why during winter, face masks are not just a “SPA ritual” but an essential strategic step in skincare.

Why Are Masks Especially Important in Winter?

Help restore the skin barrier
Intensely hydrate deeper skin layers and reduce moisture loss
Regenerate the skin thanks to peptides and PDRN
Soothe the skin and reduce inflammation

In winter, it is recommended to use masks 2–3 times per week, and even more often for sensitive or very dry skin.

7skin.lv Recommends These 5 Masks:

1. Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Power Boosting Mask

Ideal for firmness and lifting effect.

A hydrogel mask with 9 peptides stimulates collagen synthesis and reduces wrinkle depth.
Low molecular collagen + 6 types of hyaluronic acid provide deep hydration.
4 ceramides strengthen the skin barrier.

Result: smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin after just one use.

2. Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream Mask

Perfect for sensitive, irritated, and weakened skin.

A creamy mask with 3 anti-inflammatory complexes and barrier-restoring ingredients such as niacinamide, resveratrol, centella asiatica, and pantothenic acid instantly soothes and reduces redness.

Result: comfort, deep hydration, and a stabilized skin barrier.

3. REJURAN Turnover Mask

Ideal for deep hydration and fast skin recovery after damage, aggressive procedures, or environmental stress.

Contains c-PDRN — a biocompatible DNA fragment that activates cell regeneration and collagen synthesis — along with adenosine and niacinamide to improve texture and tone, plus PHA for gentle exfoliation without irritation.

Developed with DOT technology for enhanced active ingredient delivery.

Result: smoother skin texture, soothed and deeply hydrated skin, restored glow, and improved resistance to environmental stressors.

4. VT Cosmetics PDRN Daily Mask

Perfect for daily hydration and strengthening the skin barrier.

Formulated with PDRN, ceramide complex, squalane, and shea butter.
Lightweight essence texture without stickiness.

An excellent solution when winter makes the skin dry and sensitive and in need of regular supportive care.

Result: elastic, protected, and hydrated skin every day.

5. Real Barrier Extreme Cream Mask

Ideal for very dry and damaged skin.

Contains a ceramide complex and MLE® lamellar technology that mimics the skin’s natural lipid structure. Panthenol, madecassoside, and allantoin soothe and repair the skin.

Acts like a “patch” for a damaged skin barrier — reducing moisture loss and restoring protective function.

Result: deeply nourished, protected, and comfortable skin even in harsh winter conditions.

How to Choose a Mask in Winter?

For dry skin: ceramides + shea butter + lamellar structures
For sensitive skin: centella + panthenol + niacinamide
For signs of aging: PDRN + peptides + collagen
For dullness: gentle exfoliation + antioxidants

Remember!

In winter, a face mask is not a luxury — it is a daily skin protection tool.
The right formula helps maintain moisture, prevent premature aging, and protect the skin barrier.

How to Use a Face Mask?

Apply masks to cleansed and toned skin.
For detailed cleansing steps, read the blog article: “Skin Cleansing.”

Glow Effect – What It Is and How to Achieve It

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 11:54:00 +0000

Glow effect in Korean skincare isn’t about shine or cosmetic tricks.
It’s about healthy, hydrated, balanced skin that naturally reflects light.

Glow means:
• even skin texture,
• deep hydration, not greasy shine,
• skin free from irritation and redness,
• fresh, “rested” appearance.

In Korean skincare, glow is achieved not by masking, but by restoring the skin barrier.

How to achieve the glow effect:
• regular, layered hydration,
• strengthening the skin barrier (products with hyaluronic acid, PDRN, centella),
• antioxidants to protect the skin from stress and urban impact,
• gentle textures that don’t overload the skin.

The result — skin looks alive, fresh, and cared for even without makeup.

How to ensure this effect in daily life? Skincare products are important, but combined with facial massage and various procedures, the results are much more noticeable.

To avoid spending too much time in a busy schedule, 7skin.lv offers the perfect solution — facial massage devices.

Choose your favorite color, the suitable cream, and enjoy the process — your skin will get the glow effect.

Using the device with skincare products increases the effectiveness of serums and creams: active ingredients penetrate deeper, microcirculation improves, skin renewal accelerates, and hydration and nourishment are enhanced.

The innovative professional devices Medicube AGE-R Booster Pro have multiple modes: they strengthen the skin, smooth wrinkles, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin tone — visible results with daily use.

Choose your Medicube device:

These devices can be used with gel and capsule creams and serums from any brand. Important: avoid products with retinol, micro-needles, or heavy/oily textures.

Recommended products for use with the device:

Serums:

For even skin tone — Medicube AGE-R Glutathione Glow Serum
With PDRN for skin renewal, anti-aging — Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
With Vitamin C against pigmentation — Medicube Deep Vita C Ampoule 2.0
Against pigmentation and post-acne — Anua Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Dark Spot Removing Serum
Anti-inflammatory, soothes skin — Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
With PDRN for skin radiance — Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum

Gel-face creams (best used with device in certain modes MC Mode / Derma Shot):

Medicube PDRN Booster Gel
Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream

Capsule creams with gel texture:

With Vitamin C — Medicube Deep Vita C Capsule Cream
With PDRN — Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
Anti-pigmentation — Medicube TXA Niacinamide Capsule Cream
For hydration — Medicube Hyaluronic Moisturizing Capsule Cream
With PDRN for barrier restoration, anti-aging — VT Cosmetics PDRN Capsule Cream 100
With PDRN, anti-aging, lifting effect — MEDIPEEL Phyto Ex PDRN Lifting Shot Drop Gel Cream
With PDRN for deep hydration — MEDIPEEL Mooltox PDRN Hyal Drop Gel Cream
Anti-aging with golden silk worm extract — MEDIPEEL Gold Age Tox Cream
For hydration — MEDIPEEL Power Aqua Cream
Intensive hydration — Meditherapy Blue Layer Double Water Cream

The device can also be used with sheet masks. Two effects in one: apply the mask and gently massage with the device in booster mode — ingredients penetrate deeper, and skin becomes fresh and radiant.

Recommended masks:

PDRN — VT Cosmetics PDRN Daily Mask
For skin radiance — VT Cosmetics TX-Toning Daily Mask
With PDRN — Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Mask
With Vitamin C — Medicube Deep Vita C Daily Quick Mask
To soothe skin — Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream Mask

How to Protect Your Skin from Wind and Cold: The Korean Philosophy

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:54:00 +0000

Cold weather in Latvia and Northern Europe means not only beautiful winter mornings but also greater challenges for our skin. Wind, temperature fluctuations, and dry indoor air can disrupt the skin’s natural protective barrier, causing dryness, sensitivity, redness, and even flaking. During this time, it is especially important to take care of the skin barrier so it can effectively protect the skin throughout the winter season. Koreans place great emphasis on strengthening the skin barrier, and this is exactly what we will focus on today.

What Is the Skin Barrier and Why Is It So Important?

The term “skin barrier” refers to the outermost layer of the skin, also known as the stratum corneum or lipid barrier. Its main function is to protect the skin from pollution, UV radiation, infections, and various irritants, while also maintaining proper skin hydration.

When the skin barrier is unable to perform its functions, breakouts occur, skin sensitivity increases, and the skin reacts more aggressively to external environmental factors.

Some of the most common signs of a damaged skin barrier include redness, itching, dehydration, slow wound healing, flare-ups of rosacea and eczema, as well as various infections.

What Most Commonly Damages the Skin Barrier?

The skin barrier is affected by various factors, including stress, lack of sleep, an unbalanced diet, the use of overly harsh products, smoking, weather conditions, and the use of aggressive skincare products such as scrubs, frequent use of strong acids, and prolonged sun exposure.

How to Maintain a Healthy Skin Barrier?

The first and most important step is a properly chosen daily skincare routine. This is where the core Korean skincare philosophy and daily beauty protocol can be especially beneficial.

The main goal is to strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.

A daily skincare routine should focus on hydration, nourishment, and long-term protection by choosing products with gentle ingredients, helping the skin remain healthy and radiant all year round.

It is also important to consider that during the coldest months, indoor air becomes much drier due to heating systems. Therefore, extra attention should be paid to additional skin hydration throughout the day. For this purpose, sprays, mists, and sticks are ideal, as they are easy to carry in a handbag and take up very little space on a work desk.

To ensure overall skin health, it is essential to take preventive care of the skin every day and consistently maintain a healthy skin barrier.

7skin.lv TOP-10 Products for Strengthening the Skin Barrier:

Atopalm MLE Cream
O HUI Miracle Moisture Ceramide Boosting Cream
Medi-Peel Peptide 9 Volume & Tension Tox Cream Pro
Real Barrier Extreme Cream
Manyo Panthetoin Enriched Balm
Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream
d'Alba Intensive Volufiline Grinding Cream
Celimax Dual Barrier Skin Wearable Cream
d'Alba mists
Sticks

We also recommend visiting the 7skin.lv blog, where you will find valuable information to help you create a skincare routine tailored specifically to your skin. We especially recommend reading the following blog posts:

How to Properly Use Korean Skincare Products – A Step-by-Step Guide to Healthy, Glowing Skin

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:22:00 +0000

Korean skincare has become a global beauty standard. Its foundation is not about masking problems, but about long-term skin health — care, consistency, and understanding what your skin truly needs.

However, many people get lost in the wide variety of products — toners, essences, ampoules, serums, creams… How do you know what to use and in what order?

7skin.lv has created a simple step-by-step guide to help you build your Korean-inspired skincare routine.

Step 1: Oil Cleansing

Double cleansing is the foundation of Korean skincare.
The first step is using a cleansing oil or cleansing balm.
This removes makeup, SPF, and excess sebum accumulated throughout the day.
How to use: in the evening, apply on dry skin, massage, and rinse with warm water.

7skin.lv favorites for cleansing:

Step 2: Water-Based Foam or Gel Cleanser

The second step involves using a water-based cleanser to remove sweat and any remaining impurities.
It helps maintain the skin’s balance and prevents clogged pores.
How to use: morning and evening (in the evening — after the cleansing oil).

At this stage, it’s also recommended to do exfoliation twice a week. This ensures thorough cleansing, gives the skin a healthy glow, and allows active ingredients from other skincare products to absorb better.

Korean brands offer mild enzyme exfoliants, peeling gels, and various types of peeling pads.

7skin.lv favorites:

Step 3: Toner

A toner doesn’t just cleanse — it restores moisture levels and pH balance after washing.
Korean toners often contain hyaluronic acid, panthenol, centella, or niacinamide.
How to use: apply with hands or a cotton pad.

7skin.lv favorites:

Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
Real Barrier Extreme Essence Toner
Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner
Medicube PDRN Pink Cica Soothing Toner
VT Cosmetics PDRN Toner

Step 4: Essence / Serum / Ampoule

After toner comes the next step — choosing one of these products depending on your skin’s needs.

What’s the difference between an essence, serum, and ampoule?

Essence

Main function: hydration and preparation for the next steps
Texture: lightweight, watery or slightly gel-like
Concentration: mild, less concentrated than a serum
Purpose: improving skin hydration, radiance, elasticity, and enhancing absorption of other products

Serum

Main function: targeted treatment
Texture: lightweight but more concentrated than essence
Concentration: high
Purpose: reducing pigmentation, smoothing wrinkles, improving firmness, minimizing pores, reducing acne and inflammation

Serums contain powerful actives for specific concerns:

niacinamide — for pigmentation and pore reduction
hyaluronic acid — for deep hydration
retinol or peptides — for anti-aging
vitamin C — for radiance and firmness

Ampoule

Main function: SOS effect, maximum concentration
Texture: similar to serum but thicker and richer
Concentration: very high — the most intensive product
Purpose: intensive repair, quick results, or as a 2–4 week treatment

How to choose?

Want glow and hydration → choose an essence
Want to target a specific issue → choose a serum
Need fast results or deep repair → choose an ampoule

You can use these products together if your skin tolerates them — just follow the correct order: essence → serum → ampoule.

7skin.lv favorites:

Step 5: Moisturizer

A moisturizer acts as a “seal,” locking moisture and active ingredients into the skin.

Choose according to your skin type:

gel — for oily skin
creamy texture — for dry skin
balancing cream — for combination skin

How to use: morning and evening.

7skin.lv favorites:

Step 6: Sunscreen (SPF)

This is an essential part of the morning routine.
Without SPF, your entire skincare routine loses much of its effectiveness.
SPF protects the skin from UV radiation, pigmentation, premature wrinkles, and collagen loss.

How to use: apply every morning — even on cloudy days and during winter.

7skin.lv favorites:

Step 7: Sleeping Mask or Night Cream

Once or twice a week, add this step to your evening routine by applying a hydrating or nourishing sleeping mask.
It helps restore the skin overnight.

7skin.lv favorites:

Recommendations

Avoid combining too many strong actives at once (e.g., retinol + acids).
Follow the principle: less but consistent.
Observe your skin’s reaction — every product works differently.
The main rule of skincare: clean — hydrate — protect.

When your skin receives everything it needs, it naturally becomes healthy and glowing.

In addition to these seven steps, we also recommend regularly using sheet masks and gel masks. Korean brands offer a wide variety — revitalizing, soothing, hydrating, purifying, pore-tightening, brightening, and firming.

Retinol – The Elixir of Youth for Your Skin

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 15:22:00 +0000

What is retinol and why is it so popular?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that helps the skin renew itself by stimulating collagen production and improving cell regeneration. It activates the skin’s natural renewal process, replacing old cells with new ones, leaving the skin smoother, firmer, and more radiant.

Dermatologists call retinol the “gold standard” of anti-aging skincare because it can visibly transform the skin’s appearance.

Why should you include retinol in your skincare routine?

Regular use of retinol helps to:

reduce wrinkles and fine lines,
even out skin tone and texture,
fade pigmentation spots and acne scars,
minimize the appearance of pores,
stimulate collagen and elastin production,
restore skin glow and elasticity.

For these reasons, retinol creams and serums have become an essential part of anti-aging and problem-skin care worldwide.

Types of retinoids (retinol forms)

Not all retinol products are the same — different retinoid forms vary in strength, skin tolerance, and suitability for specific skin types.

Retinyl Acetate and Retinyl Palmitate
The gentlest forms of vitamin A, which slowly convert into active retinol.
Ideal for beginners and for dry or sensitive skin. Provide gentle renewal and maintain skin hydration.

Retinol – the classic form
The most common and well-researched retinoid.
Effectively reduces early signs of aging, evens skin tone, and refines texture.
Effective at concentrations from 0.15% to 1%.
May cause mild irritation for sensitive skin, so gradual introduction is recommended.

Retinal (Retinaldehyde)
A more active yet gentler form of retinol.
Can be used year-round as it doesn’t cause photosensitivity or pigmentation.
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Optimal concentration: 0.1% or less.

Retinyl Retinoate
An innovative form, 8 times stronger than classic retinol.
Provides a powerful anti-aging effect, improving firmness and radiance.
Photostable — suitable for daytime use.
Best for mature and problematic skin.

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR)
A new-generation retinoid offering maximum efficacy without irritation.
This “intelligent retinol” works deep within the skin without causing dryness or peeling.
Ideal for sensitive, dry, and mature skin.

How to start using retinol safely

If you want to introduce retinol into your skincare routine, do it gradually so your skin can adapt.

Start with a low concentration (0.05–0.1% retinol or retinal).
Apply in the evening, as retinol increases sun sensitivity.
Use twice a week at first, then gradually increase frequency.
Always apply SPF 30–50 the next day — it’s essential!
Combine with hydrating and soothing ingredients (hyaluronic acid, ceramides, panthenol).
Avoid mixing with acids or vitamin C in the same evening.
Do not use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or with rosacea, couperose, or eczema.

Visible results usually appear after 2 months, with smoother, firmer, and younger-looking skin after 6–12 months.

Who is retinol suitable for?

Retinol suits most skin types, especially if:

you notice first wrinkles or dull, tired skin,
you have pigmentation spots or acne scars,
you want to improve tone and elasticity,
you seek an effective anti-aging solution.

For sensitive skin, start with bakuchiol (a natural retinol alternative) or retinal, which provide similar effects without irritation.

Retinol is one of the most powerful allies in achieving healthy, smooth, and radiant skin. There’s no need to fear it — the key is correct use and consistent SPF protection.

Find your perfect retinol cream or serum at 7skin.lv and give your skin a new breath of life!

7 Most Common Skincare Mistakes Made by 90% of People

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:31:00 +0000

Are you really taking proper care of your skin?

Many believe they do enough — washing their face, applying cream, and occasionally using a mask. But even the most diligent among us often do things that, over time, damage the skin’s protective barrier, cause dryness, breakouts, and accelerate premature aging.

Let’s take a look at the most common skincare mistakes:

1. Washing your face with the wrong cleanser

Many people still use soap or harsh gels that dry out the skin and disrupt its pH balance.
As a result, the skin becomes tight, irritated, and starts producing more oil to protect itself.

What should you do instead?
According to the Korean skincare protocol, cleansing is not just about washing off dirt — it’s an important evening ritual that should be both gentle and effective.
In the evening, double cleansing is a must, especially if you’ve worn makeup and/or sunscreen during the day.

Double cleansing consists of two steps:

Use a cleansing oil or balm to dissolve makeup, SPF, and sebum.
Follow with a water-based cleanser with a low pH and gentle surfactants to remove all residue without damaging the skin barrier.

In the morning, a single gentle cleanser is enough — unless your skin has been exposed to significant pollution overnight. Each person should choose cleansing products according to their lifestyle, work schedule, hobbies, and environment.

7skin.lv favorites:

Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil

Celimax Derma Nature Fresh Blackhead Jojoba Cleansing Oil

VT Cosmetics PDRN Grinding Cleansing Balm

Dr.Althea Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm

Atopalm Facial Foam Wash

Medi-Peel Peptide 9 Aqua Essence Facial Cleanser

Real Barrier Ceramide Moisture Cleansing Foam

Arencia Fresh Rosehip Rice Mochi Cleanser

2. Overusing scrubs and exfoliants

Daily exfoliation may sound like a good idea, but excessive mechanical or chemical exfoliation can destroy the skin barrier.
As a result, the skin becomes sensitive, flaky, and prone to breakouts.

What should you do instead?
Use exfoliating products 1–2 times a week. In autumn, opt for gentle exfoliants containing AHA, BHA, or PHA acids that renew the skin without harsh effects.

Learn more about AHA, BHA, and PHA acids in this 7skin.lv blog article.

3. Not moisturizing enough

Even oily skin needs hydration. Many skip moisturizing, thinking it will make their skin greasy or shiny.
However, dehydrated skin compensates by producing even more oil.

What should you do instead?
Oily skin also needs toner and serum, while creams should have a lightweight texture — such as emulsions or gel creams with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or ceramides.

7skin.lv favorites for oily skin hydration:

Manyo Factory Bifida Biome Ampoule Toner

Anua Peach 77 Niacin Essence Toner

Medicube PDRN Pink Cica Soothing Toner

Jumiso Snail Mucin 95 + Peptide Facial Essence

Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 12

Real Barrier Extreme Cream Light

Pyunkang Yul Ultimate Calming Solution Cream

Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream

MEDIPEEL Young Cica PDRN Trouble Soothing Cream

4. Not cleaning makeup brushes and sponges

Not washing brushes and sponges regularly may seem insignificant, but they collect bacteria, oil, and dust that later transfer to your face.
As a result, your pores become clogged, breakouts appear, and irritation occurs.

What should you do instead?
Wash your brushes and sponges at least once a week using a gentle cleanser or a special cleaning product.

5. Not using SPF daily

“The sun only matters in summer” — one of the most common myths about SPF.
UV rays affect your skin 365 days a year, even on cloudy days and indoors near windows.
As a result, pigmentation, wrinkles, and premature aging appear.

What should you do instead?
Use products with SPF 30–50 every single day — even in autumn and winter. It’s the best anti-aging product there is.

6. Changing products too often

New products can be tempting, but if you don’t use them long enough, you’ll never see results. Skin needs time to adjust — usually 4–6 weeks.

What should you do instead?
Build a consistent skincare routine with 3–4 essential products (cleanser, toner/essence, serum, moisturizer) and stick to it for a longer period.

7. Ignoring your skin’s signals

Dryness, irritation, or burning are signals that your skin is unhappy with your routine. Yet many continue using the same products, hoping “it will pass on its own.”

What should you do instead?
Listen to your skin. If you experience discomfort, reduce the strength of active ingredients and focus on soothing and nourishing formulas.

Remember!
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. It requires time, understanding, and consistency. You don’t need 10+ products or the newest releases every month.
Five well-chosen basics that work together and suit your skin type are enough.

If you’re unsure which products are right for you, contact 7skin.lv — we’ll help you choose the best skincare routine for your skin type and the current season.

AHA, BHA & PHA Acids: Safe Skin Renewal for the Autumn Season

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:46:00 +0000

The summer season often leaves traces of dryness, pigmentation, and uneven texture on the skin due to sun, sea, and heat exposure.
Autumn, however, is the perfect time to restore your skin properly.
It’s the ideal season to introduce one more essential product into your skincare routine — acids.

Despite the abundance of educational content online, many people are still afraid of the word “acid” and its use in daily skincare.
Yet modern AHA, BHA, and PHA acids are safe, gentle, and suitable even for sensitive skin — if used correctly.

What are AHA, BHA, and PHA acids?

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) — derived from fruit and milk sugars. They dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, helping the skin renew itself and become smoother and more elastic.
Most popular AHAs: glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids.
Best for: dry, dull skin with uneven tone or pigmentation.
Benefits: moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant.
They also stimulate collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis.

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acids) — primarily salicylic acid. BHAs work deeper within the pores since they are oil-soluble, effectively removing excess sebum and dead skin cells.
Best for: oily and combination skin prone to blackheads and breakouts.
They have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making them effective against acne.

PHA (Poly Hydroxy Acids) — the newest and gentlest type of acids. They exfoliate the surface of the skin while hydrating and strengthening the skin barrier.
Best for: sensitive, dry, and couperose-prone skin.

Why acids are not dangerous

Unlike aggressive chemical peels, modern Korean skincare formulas balance acids with soothing and moisturizing ingredients — such as hyaluronic acid, allantoin, panthenol, and plant extracts.
They:

don’t strip the skin of moisture,
don’t damage the skin barrier,
stimulate natural cell renewal,
help active ingredients absorb better.

Regular use (2–3 times a week) gives a gentle yet visible effect — softer, smoother, and more radiant skin without irritation.

Why autumn is the best time to use acids

UV radiation is milder in autumn, making it the safest season to start an acid-based skin renewal course.

Tips for safe acid use:

Start gradually: 1–2 times per week.
Choose the right concentration — AHA up to 5%, BHA up to 2%, PHA up to 5%.
Always use SPF, even on cloudy days.
Avoid combining several acids at once, especially if your skin isn’t used to them.

How to choose the right product

If your skin feels:

dull and tired → choose AHA with lactic or mandelic acid,
congested or acne-prone → go for BHA with salicylic acid,
sensitive and dry → PHA is the safest option.

At 7skin.lv, you can find a wide range of Korean skincare products with balanced acid formulas that deliver visible results without irritation.

Recommended products:

Don’t be afraid of acids! They can become your best ally in achieving radiant, even-toned, and healthy-looking skin.

With regular use, skin quality improves noticeably:

less flakiness,
cleaner pores,
reduced roughness and dryness,
smoother texture and tone,
balanced oil production,
lighter pigmentation spots,
increased collagen production,
enhanced absorption of active ingredients.