While filming Friends, Courteney Cox formed some lifelong friendships. It's also where she first became aware of the skincare brand Dermalogica, notably its Cleansing Gel, which sat on a bathroom shelf in the apartment of beloved characters Rachel and Monica.
"I was like, 'oh, I want to try that,'" Cox explains to HotGossipNewz. Fast forward to now, and the lifelong fan and brand are collaborating to discuss what distinguishes Dermalogica from anything else on anyone's shelves.
Three years before Dermalogica's debut in 1986, its founder, skin therapist Jane Wurwand, established the International Dermal Institute, which has educated hundreds of thousands of students worldwide on optimal skin practises.
Wurwand would apply that enthusiasm for and attention on skin knowledge to the product line, creating a one-of-a-kind product.
That, of course, includes Cox, who recently visited Dermalogica Headquarters to get a tour of the labs, warehouse, and skin treatment rooms, as well as to surprise students and pick up a few tips on how to treat her own skin like a pro.
"I think I know how to do things, but watching these experts and knowing how hard these people worked to get here makes you feel so trusting," she says. "I got to be a part of a class today, and it's really interesting to observe." I recently discovered how vital it is to spend time cleansing your face. I had no idea there was a technique to it. And I
Cox has tried several products over the years, but her favourite is Dermalogica's science-backed ingredients and "clean, simple" packaging.
Cox has learnt to schedule time for her skincare routine in the morning and evening. "That's something really important to me," she says. "'Okay, I guess I'll wait on the documentary until you get here, but I might be asleep,' says my partner [Johnny McDaid]." It doesn't take long for me, but it does for him. But there is a process to cleaning your skin and moisturising before bed."
"Clean, exfoliate or renew, and moisturise," she says. Also, sunscreen during the day! I don't believe you require a million items. I just believe you require what is best for you.
The Daily Microfoliant comes first. "I use it twice daily." It thoroughly cleanses and exfoliates your skin without drying it out. "I believe that is one of the most important things," says Cox.
A must-have is the Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum. "I enjoy exfoliating, but I also enjoy renewing and changing your skin. This is gentle enough that you will not peel, but strong enough that you will see the effects."
One of the brand's most recent releases has also become a personal favourite of Cox. "The Phyto Nature Oxygen Cream is extremely hydrating." That is something I use every night."
Finally, she adores the Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 Moisturiser. "It isn't chalky. It truly moisturises and brightens your skin. It also has a pleasant aroma. I use it on my face, neck, hands, and arms, and I'm obsessed with it."
Cox acknowledges that she hasn't always taken sun protection carefully. "You must have the knowledge and understand the consequences of not using it." That was something I didn't realise until much later. So I'm trying to impart caution in [daughter] Coco [Arquette] right now."
Cox is also impressed by what Coco, 18, discovers on social media. "They have a lot of great makeup tutorials, and it's fun to see what she learns." She'll say something completely different, just whatever. She's like a cosmetics artist."
Because she doesn't wear makeup ("I think as you get older it doesn't work," she says), she watches gadgets, cleaning hacks, and cooking videos.
Cox says she feels most at ease in her own skin "when I am productive." And when I'm comfortable, not under pressure, and most importantly, when I can be creative. And only when I'm not late! That's when I'm at my finest."
Cox's engine is productivity. "I enjoy being busy. I don't actually sit. I don't even eat while sitting. For me, me-time is when I'm productive."
And she has no intention of slowing down. "I have a partnership with Dermalogica, which is important to me." Then there's [homecare brand] Homecourt, my home care line. As a result, I feel like I'm always on the go. I'm aiming to get a project off the ground to direct, and then I'll hopefully return to Shining Vale. My partner lives in London, and I live in Los Angeles, so we travel frequently to see each other. Something is always happening."