More Cheers for DDF: Advanced Protocol (review)

If you haven’t already "heard" me rave about DDF, then you must be a fairly new visitor. I’m a huge(!) fan and user of this line. They make great stuff, and somehow manage to keep coming out with new great stuff.

Last June, I went to a product launch and learned about two of their new protocols. I reviewed
the Acne Fighting Protocol a while back and today I’m so excited write about four more new and awesome items: Advanced Protocol (Anti-Aging Restorative).

Blurb: DDF Advanced Protocol is the only skin care in its class with the super antioxidant benefits of Turmeric. An integral part of Ayurvedic treatment, Turmeric has been used in traditional Indian medicine for thousands of years. Most notably, it is a known powerhouse antioxidant which can quench damaging free radicals at the skin’s surface. Turmeric contains powerful phytonutrients, which have been shown to protect the body from the harmful effects of many damaging aging processes including oxidation and inflammation. DDF’s four new Anti-Aging Restorative products are designed to work together for maximum results, combining potent antioxidants, peptides, barrier-enhancing vitamins, rich humectants and sunscreens.

DDF created an exclusive and powerful Turmeric Complex. Normally turmeric is a spice found in your dinner; but turmeric root has also been valued for its medicinal uses. Turmeric’s powerful anti-oxidant, pro-longevity and anti-inflammatory properties are what inspired DDF to come up with a formula that could be used to combat free-radical damage and inflammation. There are also a number of studies that indicate turmeric is highly absorbable by the skin. In clinical studies, the DDF Turmeric Complex was proven to reduce 82% of free radicals. And the Advanced Protocol moisturizers were proven to restore skin’s essential moisture barrier strength and significantly firm skin.

Advanced Micro Exfoliation Cleanser

Blurb: Deeply cleanses and exfoliates while providing significant hydration. The advanced formula contains a breakthrough Turmeric Complex with exfoliating rice bran to reveal beautifully smooth and youthful-looking skin. Accelerates surface cell turnover. Eliminates impurities. Reveals beautifully smooth skin.

Advanced Eye Firming Concentrate

Blurb: Hydrates to firm the eye area for a lifted appearance. The advanced formula contains a breakthrough Turmeric Complex with glycerin and caffeine to provide protection from free radical damage and strengthen skin's moisture barrier. DDF Advanced Eye Firming Concentrate instantly reduces the appearance of wrinkles for a more youthful eye contour. Instantly firms for a lifted look. Reduces the look of puffiness and wrinkles. Hydrates to help restore youthful eye contour.

Evening: Advanced Firming Cream

Blurb: Hydrates to measurably improve skin firmness. The advanced formula contains a breakthrough Turmeric Complex to protect skin's surface from free radical damage and provide superior hydration to strengthen skin's moisture barrier. DDF Advanced Firming Cream helps reverse the appearance of aging, instantly firming and tightening skin for a radiant, younger-looking complexion. Neutralizes 82% of free radicals to minimize surface damage. Instantly firms and tightens. Fortifies skin's moisture barrier.

Day: Advanced Moisture Defense (SPF 15)

Blurb: Hydrates to measurably improve skin firmness and provides protection from future damage. The advanced formula contains a breakthrough Turmeric Complex to inhibit free radical damage to skin's moisture barrier and UVA/UVB sunscreens to help prevent sun damage. DDF Advanced Moisture Defense UV Cream SPF 15 helps reverse the appearance of aging, instantly firming and tightening skin for a radiant, younger-looking complexion. Protects skin's moisture barrier from free radical damage. Instantly firms and tightens. Helps protect from UVA/UVB sun damage.

Before I start gushing, I want to make sure you know that these products are significantly richer than what I normally use. Since I have breakout prone skin; I made sure to introduce them very gradually into my regimen. If you are also prone to breakouts; be sure to check the ingredients for anything that you might be sensitive to. Of course, if this isn’t an issue for you; you can just go right ahead and start the full protocol.

That said, these products really made a difference in the appearance and texture of my skin. The cleanser has ingredients to exfoliate, but you would never know it from the soft gentle feel of the lather. It removed my makeup and left my skin feeling smooth and hydrated. The eye concentrate was fabulous. It disappeared almost immediately, provided moisture and noticeably shrank my morning puffiness. What a find.

The two creams are also stellar. The Advanced Firming Cream (evening) absolutely melted into my skin. I couldn’t wait to put this on at night. The texture is unbelievable and my skin just drank it up. The Advanced Moisture Defense (day) cream also did a fab job. It absorbed immediately and had a slight firming effect right away. It didn’t interfere with my makeup, and kept my skin well hydrated. All that plus SPF!

All four products have a distinct whiff of turmeric (not overpowering or lingering though). I love that DDF has found a way to combine traditional wisdom with cutting edge science. This protocol is definitely worth checking out. DDF is available at Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom, and on the DDF Website.
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Mattify Me! Satisfy Me! DDF Acne Fighting Protocol (review)

Here is my first DDF review since attending their fab product launch last week. Their new Acne Fighting Protocol features two new items that just happen to fit ever so neatly into my series of oil/blemish control product reviews. They're formulated with a unique blend of botanicals (including glycerin, aloe leaf, marigold, ginger root and witch hazel). Specialized ingredients are then added to each evening and day treatment.

PM: Acne Control Treatment

Blurb: A night treatment that deeply penetrates pores to normalize skin by combating existing blemishes while also helping to prevent future acne. Fights and controls acne. Helps keep pores clear. Soothes and restores clarity.

Excellent, excellent, excellent! At the launch, we learned about how important it is to make sure to keep up your skin's "moisture barrier." (Now that I learned this term, I want to fling it around like I have a Ph.D.) The moisture barrier helps your skin stay hydrated so it can heal and renew itself. DDF's active ingredient is salicylic acid (to fight and prevent blemishes). It also contains the special botanical formulation which soothes skin and facilitates the…moisture barrier. So while you're sleeping, you've got clarification, hydration and all kinds of nice things happening. It also goes on very nicely without being goopy or sticky.

AM: Mattifying Oil Control UV Moisturizer (SPF 15)

Blurb: A daily protective moisturizer that controls exterior oils to instantly minimize shine on contact while also helping to protect against harmful UVA/UVB sun damage. Instantly controls shine. Mattifies imperfections. Helps protect from UVA/UVB sun damage.

Fresh from the Land of Really Good Ideas! In addition to the hydrating botanical combo, this moisturizer contains oil absorbing particles and SUNSCREEN. Nice multitasking, DDF! It went on smoothly, looked great under my makeup, hydrated, controlled oil until noon, and pretty much behaved fabulously.

DDF is available at places like Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom, and on the DDF Website.
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Exciting New Breakthroughs from DDF!

One of the best things about being a blogger is learning about all the amazing new breakthroughs in beauty and skincare. Last night DDF Skincare unveiled their newest products at a fabulous launch event. We gathered at At Vermillion in New York for cocktails and hors d’oevres while Principle Scientist, Laura Goodman, and DDF Director of Training and Education, Georgia Sturges, shared some amazing insight into the latest ingredients and technology. I'm a long time fan and user of DDF and now I have SIX more reasons to cheer!

Acne Fighting Protocol

Blurb: DDF’s new acne protocol begins with a core combination of ingredients which comprise the DDF Clarifying Neutralizing Complex. The core contains a soothing blend of botanicals and skin conditioners including Glycerin, Aloe Leaf Juice, Marigold Flower Extract, Ginger Root Extract and Witch Hazel Extract. Additionally, specialized ingredients are added to each product for specific AM and PM care.

AM: Mattifying Oil Control UV Moisturizer (SPF 15) - The exclusive Daytime Clarifying Neutralizing Complex contains the botanical humectant core ingredients as well as micronized oil-controlling particles which provide an instantaneous mattifying effect. These extraordinary mattifying components instantly minimize shine. In addition, this daily moisturizer contains broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen technology to help protect skin from the sun’s harmful rays, including those rays that penetrate the deepest.

PM: Acne Control Treatment - Throughout the night, it works to combat existing blemishes and fight future breakouts. The exclusive Nighttime Clarifying Neutralizing Complex contains the botanical humectant core blend, Decylene glycol, a skin conditioner, and salicylic acid. This proven, highly effective acne fighting medication penetrates pores overnight and helps to exfoliate the outer layer of the affected area, eliminating excess fluid build-up by working to keep pores unclogged.

These are very near and dear to my heart (and complexion). I previously wrote about how much I love their Benzoyl Peroxide Gel and I am so thrilled that they’ve added these two new items. The Mattifying Oil Control Moisturizer keeps skin hydrated, minimizes shine and helps protect from UVA/UVB sun damage. The Acne Control Treatment conditions skin at night while it exfoliates and fights blemishes. They also work really well with the BP Gel.


Advanced Protocol (Anti-Aging Restorative)

Blurb: DDF Advanced Protocol is the only skin care in its class with the super antioxidant benefits of Turmeric. An integral part of Ayurvedic treatment, Turmeric has been used in traditional Indian medicine for thousands of years. Most notably, it is a known powerhouse antioxidant which can quench damaging free radicals at the skin’s surface. Turmeric contains powerful phytonutrients, which have been shown to protect the body from the harmful effects of many damaging aging processes including oxidation and inflammation. DDF’s four new Anti-Aging Restorative products are designed to work together for maximum results, combining potent antioxidants, peptides, barrier-enhancing vitamins, rich humectants and sunscreens.

Advanced Micro-Exfoliation Cleanser - Rice Bran Wax gently exfoliates while cleansing impurities. Nourishing hydrators work up to three hours after cleansing to reveal beautifully smooth skin. In clinical testing, 89 percent of women said it left skin feeling moisturized and hydrated.

Advanced Eye Firming Concentrate – Massage it in to reduce the look of puffiness and wrinkles while instantly firming for a lifted appearance that helps restore a more youthful eye contour.

Advanced Firming Cream – Neutralizes 82 percent of surface free radicals, hydrates, and fortifies skin’s moisture barrier to instantly firm and tighten skin.

Advanced Moisture Defense UV Cream (SPF 15) – Instantly firms and tightens skin with hydration while protecting skin’s moisture barrier with antioxidants and guarding against the harmful rays of the sun with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

Wow! This is really exciting stuff! We learned that the main ingredient in this new protocol, Turmeric, has extremely powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, a number of dermatological studies show that the skin has a great ability to absorb Turmeric, allowing it to reach cells beneath the surface. DDF has incorporated Turmeric into these four products for a brand new, exclusive formula!

DDF is available at places like Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom, and on the DDF Website. The website also has information about events, and you can even submit a review and receive a discount off of your next purchase.

I am planning to try out every single one of these items (and I’ll be sure and let you know how it goes.)
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ESS-PEA-EFF: Series Finale

Well it looks like I've pretty much beat this subject into the ground…almost! Sorry, but before all the outdoor fun begins; I want to mention (briefly!) a few more awesome products to shelter your lovely skin. Then I'll stop. Really. I promise.

Clinique Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector (SPF 40)
I use this a lot because it's a great reasonably priced, makeup-friendly sunscreen. It's lightly tinted, zinc-oxide based, feels weightless and actually helps even out my skintone. It has a slightly higher than usual SPF and is also fairly water resistant. Contains anti-oxidants, oil-free, non-comedogenic, allergy-tested and fragrance free.

Origins Out Smart™ Daily (SPF 25)
This is one of the few non-zinc oxide sunscreens I recommend because it goes on like a dream. It feels smooth, weightless and absolutely melts into skin. It's lightly tinted, incredibly soothing and slightly moisturizing. Oil-free, dermatologist and opthamologist tested.

Solar Sense Clear Zinc, Advanced Sun Protection For Face (SPF 45)
Micronized zinc oxide means no white cast. It offers great protection and comes in a convenient, travel-friendly plastic jar. It's also fairly water-resistant. Contains vitamins A, C, E, aloe and green tea. Non-greasy, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and doesn't clog pores.

SkinCeuticals Ultimate UV Defense (SPF 30)
Contains transparent zinc oxide and doesn't leave a white cast. Slightly moisturizing, but doesn't clog pores. This works pretty well as a makeup base too. My dermatologist recommends this highly for every day use.

DDF Organic Sun Protection (SPF 30)
I reviewed this in an earlier post, but it bears mentioning again. DDF is an excellent skincare line and this sunscreen is no exception. Oil free, non-comedogenic, moisturizing, non-irritating and contains antioxidants. It isn't sweat-proof, but it's excellent for those days that are sunny, but not too hot.

Aveeno Ultra Calming Daily Moisturizer (SPF 15)
This is another non-zinc oxide sunscreen. What makes it a standout is its ability to soothe and calm irritated skin. My neck can get extremely sensitive sometimes, and this moisturizer calms it right down and feels wonderful while it protects. Oil-free, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested.
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Getting my “grown-up” on

As a fan of PBS, Oprah and the whole self-help movement, I have a heightened awareness of all things relating to my “inner child.” While I value and treasure that part of me, I am still so freaking happy that I am a “grown-up.” Even though it’s tax day.

Yeah, being an adult has responsibilities and baggage and what not -- but remember when you were a kid and everyone told you what to do all the time? Remember when you were legally compelled to learn? And the asking permission…and the hoping not to get caught…and the getting caught and then getting in trouble. And…okay, you get the picture.

Today I slept in and had spaghetti for breakfast.

So many cool things came to pass after the age of consent. One thing that did not come to pass, though, was clear skin. Sadly, even though my teen years are far behind me (far!), I still suffer from breakouts. A dermatologist once “joked” by saying “Don’t worry! This will only be a problem until you reach menopause!” There was an awkward pause while he waited for me to laugh along with him, then seemed really surprised when I didn’t. (Tangent: this is one of the many reasons to practice your “I-am-irritated-and-not-amused-but-I-am-keeping-silent-out-of-politeness” look. You just never know when it will come in handy.)

Different products/methods work for different people and I’ve tried way too many of them. In the end, the only thing that gives me dependable results is benzoyl peroxide. The good news is that BP is pretty widely available. The challenge is that once you get to a 5% or higher concentration (I need 5%), the formula can be gritty, hard to apply and/or leave a white film. Bleh. What’s the point of clearing up my skin if it’s going to be all gritty and filmy? Well, yours truly went all “beauty detective” and found DDF Benzoyl Peroxide Gel.

Blurb: A 5%, benzoyl peroxide, water-based gel with the added advantage of tea tree oil. Antiseptic and healing properties make this gel ideal for oily skin conditions. Actively works to control pimples, blackheads, and other forms of acne.

DDF (Doctor’s Dermatologic Formula) is a great line. And I have been using this gel for about a month and LOVING it! It’s still a little gritty (I guess I can’t avoid grittiness completely), but it goes on smoothly in a thin layer and is absolutely clear under makeup. A little goes a long way, so the 2oz. bottle lasts a long time. It also has a bit of tea tree oil. Oh, and there’s that other thing: clear skin!

Remember: benzoyl products can be drying, so use a good moisturizer that won’t clog pores, and absolutely use a sunscreen. (for a great moisture/sunscreen combo option, see yesterday's post about DDF Organic Sun Protection).

Available through the DDF website as well as Sephora and Beauty.com. I can’t recommend this stuff enough (ergo, all the links).

Dear sunscreen…

Dear DDF Organic Sun Protection, It has been a beautiful Fall and Winter, but I must say goodbye for the Summer. We will meet again in September (or October, depending on the Doppler Radar). Love, Maria

Why am I reviewing my Winter sunscreen in April? Because not everyone has hot, ridiculously humid Philadelphia summers. When I lived in San Francisco, it got cold in the summer. And windy. And dry. I am reviewing my winter sunscreen in April because I am a giver who thinks of others. And because I didn’t have a blog last Winter. And because DDF Organic Sun Protection rocks.


Blurb: A moisturizer for sensitive skin that contains Zinc and Titanium Dioxide to provide a physical barrier against harmful UVA/UVB rays. Contains the exclusive DDF Redox Antioxidant Complex™ to help protect from free radical damage at the skin’s surface. Proper use may reduce the chance of skin cancer as well as premature aging of the skin. Suitable for all skin types.

DDF (which stands for Doctors Dermatologic Formula) is an excellent skincare line. And this sunscreen/moisturizer just plain works. I have oily skin, but it’s also sensitive. And treating my skin for break outs makes it even more sensitive. Add cold, dry, east coast winter air and my skin is cranky. And even though these are the cold months, the sun is still shining and I need sunscreen.

This product has really done it all this Winter. It’s an oil free moisturizer (doesn’t clog my pores) with a nice high SPF of 30. It moisturizes, blocks the sun, contains antioxidants and doesn’t irritate. It’s even gentle enough for my eye area. Extra points because even though it contains zinc oxide, it doesn’t leave a white cast on my olive complexion.

It also feels really soft and luxurious going on. Out of the bottle, it’s marshmallow-white so I can see that everything is covered, then the white fades.

Unfortunately this product is not sweat-proof, so I need to set it aside for a few months. I am currently on the lookout for something that will stand up to the crazy summer humidity. But if your Spring or Summer stays cool where you live, I would definitely check this out.