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Of course, Gatsby-esque gatherings are decidedly dangerous these days.

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On a less-rosy note, 2020 also dealt a deluge of unprecedented skin concerns.

As for the future of bacteria-based skin-care in 2021?

Well, for too many reasons to spell out here and now.

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As an overarching theme, though, a healthy, balanced microbiome equals healthy, balanced skin.

Conversely, imbalances in the microbiome can trigger myriad skin conditions, including acne and eczema, Farhang explains.

“Isotretinoin helps acne because it also balances the skin microbiome,” Farhang shares.

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Elsa Jungman, a skin-care pharmacologist who studies the microbiome, agrees wholeheartedly.

Her advice: Seek out companies that have ample research to support their claims.

(Jungman recently launched an eponymous microbiome-friendly skin-care brand backed by a team of like-minded scientists.)

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There’s more to the microbiome madness.

Simply put, these “biotics” flank probiotics and support the microbiome as a whole.

(Oh, andthis.)

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(Dare we hope fora Lady Gaga lineto boot?)

Though not apples to apples, HEV and UV light may actually incite similar signs of photo-aging.

Skin-soothing ingredients will continue to trend into 2021, according to cosmetic chemist David Petrillo.

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7 Cica-Rescue Skin PasteandDior Cica Recover Balm.

He also predicts willow herb will pop up en masse, as it boasts both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Trendy as the term may initially sound, dermatologists are actually on board, too.

Pharrell Williams' Humanrace skincare collection three green jars of varying heights have their caps removed to reveal…

Topless, each product reveals an exchangeable refill chamber.

This need presented an opportunity for creative sanitizer options.

(Try theHand Cream by Necessaire, which is also devoid of fragrance and other potential irritants.)

The hand-related category that gleaned the most attention, however, washand masks.

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Will wax paraffin baths make a comeback?

Only time will tell, but it doesn’t seem entirely out of the question.

Meanwhile, Olay and Love Beauty and Planet moved the needle on making eco-friendly options more affordable.

Better yet, numerous brands pledged to transition to 100 percent recyclable packaging in the years to come.

and lead to redness, dryness, and itching.

Find both ingredients in products likeCeraVe’s classic Moisturizing CreamandBeautyStat’s Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream.

These formulas are also fragrance-free, meaning it poses very little risk of irritating a weakened barrier.

“They also seek to seal in moisture to prevent water loss and dehydration of the skin.”

For daily use for most people, though, super-thick occlusives may lead to breakouts.

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