Skincare has come a long way since your grandmother’s cold cream. No one knows that better than licensed esthetician Liz Martin, owner of Noche Azul in North Wilmington. Before opening her spa last year, Martin had pampered such clients as Vincenza Carrieri-Russo, Miss Delaware USA 2008, for more than 11 years. Martin also serves as official skincare esthetician and makeup artist for the Delaware USA pageant.

Anti-pollution skincare

“Anti-oxidant and anti-pollutant skincare is the new skin trend for 2016,” Martin says. “With all the pollutants in the air causing harm to our skin, companies are getting better at explaining to consumers why it’s so bad. The sun isn’t the only thing you should be worried about when you go outside.” Healthy skin starts with balance. No more than three products are needed: a cleanser, exfoliant and moisturizer (preferably one with sunscreen). “Choosing the right cleanser and moisturizer is key to not stripping the skin and causing it to overproduce oil and break out more,” Martin says. She carries the Rhonda Allison line, with cleansers ranging from $12 to $39. Moisturizers range from $18 to $100, depending on the results one wants. 

Skincare for men

Just because men can get away with being ruggedly handsome, they can’t slack on skincare. Martin recommends the skincare line RA for Men by Rhonda Allison. First, wash the face with Blue Agave ($10–$28), a cleanser containing tequila extract. Then apply Tizo 3, a tinted sunscreen with a matte finish. “It not only protects the skin from the sun, it also evens tone naturally. Guys with ruddy complexions love this because it takes the red out of their skin. And don’t worry, guys—the tint blends right in. No sparkle or shimmer,” she says. 

When not to DIY

At-home facials are okay, but leave resurfacing treatments to the pros, or have an esthetician you know and trust monitor at-home treatments, Martin says. Done incorrectly, you run the risk of permanent discoloration or pigment loss.

Noche Azul Spa
1733 Marsh Rd., Wilmington
345-0070
www.nocheazulspa.com 

Must Have

The Ear Cuff

While we appreciate hoops and studs, ear cuffs add a unique pizzazz to any outfit. Dress up a formal outfit with bejeweled ear cuffs, play up a casual ensemble with spikes, or throw on a petite crystal leaf design for an everyday look. For an avant-garde look, adorn your ears with a Rebecca Minkoff crystal ear cuff ($34.97, normally $78 at other department stores). 

Available at the Nordstrom Rack in the Christiana Fashion Center, Newark; www.nordstromrack.com.