Courtesy of Vanessa MarcWhen it comes to skincare that actually delivers results, celebrity esthetician Vanessa Marc knows what works and what doesn’t.
As the founder of the Vanessa Marc Spa in New York City, she’s a trusted expert in the beauty and skincare space, with a client base that includes some of today’s most famous faces.
What we love about Vanessa, the Marshalls and TJ Maxx esthetician expert, is that she believes great skincare isn’t just about expensive products, it’s about consistency, quality ingredients, and knowing when your routine needs a refresh. She’s also an SPF enthusiast, and for good reason.
Sunscreen, she says, is one of the most important steps to achieving and maintaining healthy skin!
E! caught up with the skincare guru to get her expert take on how long it really takes to see results, common summer skincare mistakes, and the must-have products she swears by, many of which she finds at TJ Maxx and Marshalls, and you can too!
Her tips and product picks (including some of our own inspired by her advice) have everything you need for a flawless, fresh face by Labor Day.
What’s the one product you think every skin type benefits from during the summer months?
“SPF is the non-negotiable hero of any summer skincare routine. Apply it regularly to both your face and body. SPF 50 is best for extended sun exposure, but SPF 30 works too,” Vanessa shares.
“Use a nickel-sized amount for your face and reapply every two hours. Sunscreen not only protects against UV damage, but it can also help prevent hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and collagen loss, keeping your skin firm and healthy.”
MURAD Spf 45 Oil And Pore Control Mattifier
“For oily skin types, I recommend a mattifying sunscreen with non-comedogenic ingredients that won’t clog your pores,” she says.
SHISEIDO Universal Defense Broad Spectrum Spf 50 Sunscreen
“For dry skin, I recommend a creamier formula with zinc oxide, which helps attract and lock in moisture while soothing any irritation,” she explains.
The skincare expert tells E! readers to focus on areas with heavy makeup or SPF applications, like around the eyes, nose, and hairline. Remember to rinse with lukewarm water!
Summer wedding season is in full swing. What are your go-to tips for prepping skin so that makeup lasts all day?
“I always recommend starting with a clean, fresh face to ensure you’re applying makeup on a smooth canvas that’s free of any oils or dirt,” she advises.
“When washing your face, I recommend using a cool rinse to help tighten your pores and reduce any puffiness. You can also gently use an ice roller or a chilled spoon over your face to help with this.”
MELT Melting Glow Cleansing Balm
“I recommend using an oil-based cleanser or a cleansing balm, because they’re meant to help dissolve waterproof sunscreen, waterproof makeup, and excess sebum,” she shares.
MIXSOON Master Gentle Recipe Foam Cleanser
“Now that a majority of the product has been removed from your face, follow up with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to ensure any residue is removed and to help your skin feel clean and balanced.”
The skincare expert tells E! readers to focus on areas with heavy makeup or SPF applications, like around the eyes, nose, and hairline. Remember to rinse with lukewarm water!
Summer wedding season is in full swing. What are your go-to tips for prepping skin so that makeup lasts all day?
“I always recommend starting with a clean, fresh face to ensure you’re applying makeup on a smooth canvas that’s free of any oils or dirt,” she advises.
“When washing your face, I recommend using a cool rinse to help tighten your pores and reduce any puffiness. You can also gently use an ice roller or a chilled spoon over your face to help with this.”
BLISS Stainless Steel Ice Roller
Add this $6 skincare tool to your routine to depuff your face, tighten your pores, and even bust headaches and soothe sunburns.
“Then, hydrate your skin with a hydrating serum, like one with niacinamide, and a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer or gel-based hydrator and let it fully absorb for about five to ten minutes before moving onto the next step,” she says.
“Follow with an SPF that will set well under your makeup without feeling heavy on the skin.”
DR. JART Brightamin Brightening Serum Ampoule
We found a K-Beauty favorite packed full of niacinamide at TJ Maxx. And you’ll save $12 when you buy it here.
CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly
This lightweight water-jelly moisturizer inspired by Vanessa’s advice is designed to deliver 24-hour hydration repair and support your skin’s protective barrier.
What’s the most effective skincare approach for managing acne during the hotter, more humid months?
“I recommend using a foaming or gel-based cleanser with ingredients, like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil to help control oil, reduce inflammation, and prevent clogged pores,” she says.
“I would also recommend gently exfoliating one to two times a week with your favorite, non-irritating exfoliant to help remove dead skin cells and prevent buildup. Try not to over-exfoliate, which may irritate and worsen acne!”
PEACE OUT Acne Cleanser
This skincare pick inspired by the celeb esti’s advice features 2% salicylic acid, maltobionic acid and ceramide complex to help eliminate blemishes, soothe irritation, and boost barrier function.
