Restoring Your Youthful Appearance

Facial rejuvenation is the term used to encompass all forms of restoring a youthful appearance to the face. It includes the broad categories of:

* Injectables (Botox® & fillers) (See BotoxFacts.ca for additional uses of Botox®);
* Resurfacing procedures (laser treatment, microdermabrasion & chemical peels);
* Surgical rejuvenation (brow lifts, eyelid surgery; facelifts, nose jobs, face and chin augmentation, and neck lifts);
* Topical tretinoin and tazarotene which reverse sun damage and enhance collagen production. The normal changes associated with facial aging are the result of both:

* intrinsic (age related fat and bone loss known as atrophy, and skin laxity for example) and
* extrinsic factors (like ultraviolet light / sunlight, chemicals, and smoking).

These factors contribute to biological changes associated with age and create predictable patterns of facial change. An over-simplistic analogy is mimicked by the changes in the helium balloon your child wouldn’t let you throw away. With time there is loss of internal volume (gas in this example) and as a result the covering loses its taught shape, luster, and becomes wrinkled. Moreover, there is a marked change in shape of the entire structure. Naturally, similar changes on your face can be highly distressing especially since many available treatments are being promoted.

Physicians can treat facial aging three ways: through reduction (making the skin “fit”), augmentation (“stretching” the skin back to normal) or a combination of the two.

When it comes to choosing a rejuvenation procedure, the severity of the facial aging must be considered. Here’s a review:

* Wrinkles (individual fine or deep rhytids) are managed well by Botox® or injectable fillers. Although other agents are touted to produce similar results, Botox® is currently unsurpassed in its ability to soften or eliminate wrinkles caused directly by the action of underlying muscles of facial animation. (Botox Facts has more information for you)

* For wrinkles that may not be contributed to directly by facial movement or for depressed scars; superficial or deep fillers (ranging from collagen, hyaluronic acid and poly-L-lactic acid to silicone particles and bone cement and even your own injected fat). These can also be used for wrinkles, scars, and soft tissue augmentation (most commnly lip augmentation).

* When you have wrinkles involving larger areas or if it’s related to sun-damage, the underlying problem commonly lies in the biological changes in the skin itself. Here rejuvenation methods such as laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels act to restore some of the lost intrinsic biologic properties of the skin and can provide a significant restorative change over these large areas. These treatments use light associated heat, physical sanding, or chemicals, respectively, to remove the surface layers of the skin and hence stimulate a regenerative-like process. Many common skin creams advertised to improve facial wrinkles contain glycolic or other acids used in light chemical peels to help improve the taughtness of your treated skin.

* As the severity of skin aging increases, injection and resurfacing procedures may be combined themselves or with surgical rejuvenation (possibly in a staged fashion).
* Surgical management of more severe forms of facial aging can be through an additive (implants), reductive (excisions or tucks), or combined approach. Modern rhinoplasties (“nosejobs”) are a good example where combined approaches of reduction by excision and

augmentation through cartilage grafting are employed. As these procedures typically address changes in the three-dimensional volume (deep structures) and in the skin (envelope or cover) they obviously provide the greatest extent of rejuvenation and can address the greatest degrees of facial change. That said, they do come with a limited amount of scaring and the possibly some temporary numbness. Often these scars, created in lines of election, are fine and highly acceptable with some rare exceptions.

* Topical tretinoin and tazarotene can improve fine lines and the general appearance of the skin. The down-side is that you need to continue to use these topical treatments in order to maintain its effect. Sometimes, tretinoin and tazarotene can be combined with the procedures listed above to enhance the effects.

Although you may hear more and more about treating aging skin with the procedures and products mentioned above, we all know that the best form of care is through modification of your exposure to the extrinsic “modifiable” risk factors, like sun exposure (See Skin Cancer Guide for more information).

By: Dr Bryce J Cowan BSc MSc MD PhD FRCS(C)

Treatments for Lines and Wrinkles

As we age, the skin droops and develops wrinkles, lines and furrows. Depending on your skin type, you may find your skin to be pre-disposed to wrinkling. But thanks to diligent research and new advances, there are a number of solutions to combat facial lines.

Causes of facial lines

In addition to aging, facial lines can form because of the following:

* Sun damage (Fine lines and wrinkles arise because of irregular thickening of the dermis and because of a decrease in the amount of water held by the epidermis. caused mainly by sun damage.) (Read more at Sun Damage)
* Smoking
* Muscle movement / Dynamic lines (People tend to smile or frown more on one side than the other, or consistently sleep on the right or the left cheek. Crow’s feet around the eyes are due to smiling and activity of the eyelid muscles. Worry lines on the forehead are due to contraction of the muscle when raising the eyebrows)
* Gravity is responsible for folds in the skin

What treatment is available?

See your dermatologist for information about what might work well for you, which could include (Also see treatments for sundamaged skin):

* Topical agents which produce collagen in the skin, Vitamin A acids (Tazarotene, Tretinoin, Adapelene) and Vitamin C or alpha

Hydroxy acids
* Microdermabrasion has a very modest benefit for very fine lines
* Injectionable fillers such as Restylane (Hyaluronic acid)
* Botox for dynamic lines (Check-out www.BotoxFacts.ca)
* Lasers. Traditionally the CO2 and Erbium lasers (ablative) were used to essentially peel off a layer of skin and then allow a new skin to grow in. Results were impressive but the healing time of many weeks and sometimes months of redness has reduced the use of this approach. Patients with darker skin would often end up with darker skin and those with very fair skin sometimes white skin

* Plastic surgery is usually used to improve skin folds rather than fine lines and wrinkles
* The newer non-ablative laser treatments do not have the down time of the older methods nor do they have the degree of improvement. Repeat treatments with lasers that essentially produce a heating of the dermis, which in turn encourages collagen production, Lasers such as the Nd: Yag, V Beam and Smooth Beam may be used.
* The Fraxel laser is a modification of an Erbium laser that just treats multiple small pinpoint areas of skin allowing a quick recovery after a treatment. We will be hearing more of this in the future
* Cosmetic facial surgery

Prevent it before it happens

You can take steps to protect your skin. You’ve heard it before, and it’s worth repeating:

* Avoid excessive time in the sun, and always use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher
* Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke or other pollutants. Smoking increases facial lines and wrinkles and delays skin healing.
* Exercise. It’s good for the skin as well as for your general health.
* Aging skin feels and looks better when moisturizers are applied regularly. These improve the water-holding capacity of the skin. Choose one that feels nice to apply, doesn’t sting or burn or provoke acne
* Use tepid or warm water and a non-soap cleanser to wash your face twice daily
* Drink plenty of water to rehydrate internally. Because moisture content is related to water, not oil or grease, oily-skinned women need to rehydrate as conscientiously as their dry-skinned counterparts
* Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables
* Generally what is healthy for your heart and brain is good for your skin

See your doctor or dermatologist to determine which solutions best suits your experience with facial lines.

Youthful Skin with Alternative Health Practices

By: Van Le

Complementary and Alternative Practices towards a Healthy Lifestyle. Over the last century, doctors and researchers in the Western world have made several medical breakthroughs and significant discoveries in the fight against terminal diseases.  Such discoveries are key milestones towards finding the cure for diseases such as cancer and other illnesses, however, the idea of using complementary and alternative medicines, remedies, and holistic therapy to help manage a natural, healthier lifestyle is gaining popularity in the Western world.

Complementary and alternative medicine consists of practices that do not follow the norm of conventional medicine; complementary medicine is used in conjunction with conventional medicine, while alternative medicine is used in place of conventional treatment.  Some examples of complementary and alternative medicine include acupuncture, meditation/visualization, and the use of natural products.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a complementary medicine technique, is the practice of inserting tiny needles into very specific parts of the body to relieve pain and discomforts associated with conventional treatments.  According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), it is the oldest healing practice in the world, and works by restoring the body’s balance (ying and yang.)  Acupuncture is most popular for its ability to relieve pain and aches, but the idea of “cosmetic acupuncture” is also gaining attention as a less-drastic alternative to cosmetic surgeries.

It has been reported that those who undergo cosmetic acupuncture experience vibrant skin tone, reduced and finer wrinkles, and firmer skin.  A study in The Journal of Clinical Acupuncture states that 90% of cosmetic acupuncture patients experience notable improvement in their skin quality.  As with any medical procedure, acupuncture carries risks, and when considering an acupuncture treatment, it is important to examine the creditability and equipment of the practitioner.

Meditation/Visualization
Meditation is a complementary technique used to escape from the stress of our hectic lifestyles and reach a profound state of relaxation and calmness.

There are several types of meditation, including yoga and tai-chi.  Yoga consists of molding the body into postures, using controlled breathing, and focusing on the moment to escape from the day’s stress.  Tai-chi started as a form of martial arts but has transformed into a healing practice.  Those who practice tai-chi move their bodies slowly and mindfully while focusing on their breathing.  According to the Associated Press, tai-chi helps build a stronger immune system, which can help the body fight against shingles, a skin condition that cause rashes.  Visualization, also known as mental imagery, is a technique in which the mind focuses on a specific image.  Cancer patients sometimes use this technique to envision their bodies fighting off the disease.  Visualization can be used by anyone to relieve stress from a busy day.

Use of natural products
The popularity of natural products has increased exponentially in the last few years due to its ability to generate healthy skin from the inside out.  Products that contain natural ingredients as opposed to harsh chemicals are logically better for the body and skin.  From a diet filled with healthy choices to using natural skincare products, there are several ways to generate a healthy, more fulfilling lifestyle.  By choosing blueberries over Botox, you can achieve longer-lasting and healthier results.  Switch to an all-natural line of skin care products to give your skin a break from the preservatives and lab-generated chemicals that can wreak havoc years down the road.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare, you can also link to http://bestorganicnaturalskincare.com

What to Expect When Receiving a Facial

By: Van Le

Proper skincare goes beyond wearing sunscreen in the morning and taking off all your makeup at night. Your skin is constantly exposed to internal and external elements, and needs extra help in order maintain a healthy glow. Getting facials can be one way to revamp your skin while pampering yourself. Along with pure relaxation, facials provide not only beauty benefits but also health benefits. According to New Life Journal’s article, “A facial, it’s more than meets the eye” by Julie Pagano, “the major health benefits of regular facials are regulation of the immune system, detoxification, reduction in fluid build-up, exfoliation, and stress relief. These benefits are achieved in a facial that incorporates lymphatic drainage, exfoliation treatments, acupressure, and aromatherapy.”

The health benefits are just the icing on the cake. What really lures us in is the relaxation and pampering we receive when getting a facial. Never had a facial before? Consider this Facial 101. Plan to arrive at the location five to ten minutes before your appointment. Most places will ask you to fill out a short questionnaire about your skin type and skincare habits. This would also be the right time to let the aesthetician be aware of any allergies you may have. The spa will provide you with a terry top so that it is easier to massage your neck and shoulders. You will also be given a headband to keep your hair out of the way.

The aesthetician will clean your face of any leftover makeup and analyze your skin under a magnifying glass light. Some will use a steam mist to open your pores. Depending on the type of facial you are getting, he/she will massage a wide variety of different cleansers, exfoliating creams, and masks on your face. Some creams and masks will be left on your face for several minutes, which can be a very blissful and relaxing experience. Most places will also extract blackheads and pimples, which can be a bit painful but not overwhelming. (If you are afraid it will hurt, you should take a pain reliever before arriving at the spa). Afterwards, the aesthetician will continue to apply masks and creams, as well as massaging your neck and shoulders. At the end of the facial, he/she will give you a breakdown of the products used during the session, make recommendations for at-home practices, and answer any questions you may have.

Essentially, all facials are designed to cleanse the deep pockets in your pores, however, depending on your specific needs, there are several types of facials available, including anti-aging, aromatherapy, and acne facials. The cost and length of time can vary from $50-$250 and 30-90 minutes.

For the period in between visits, check the site archives for several at-home remedies available to help rejuvenate your skin and keep it looking healthy.

Facials are meant to help you relax and a great way to help relieve the stress created from between the time you put on sunscreen in the morning and the time you take your makeup off at night.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare, you can also link to ORGANICSKINCAREINFO.NET

New Risk Variant For Atopic Dermatitis Identified

Science Daily (Apr. 14, 2009) — Scientists of the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) Berlin-Buch and Charité – University Medical School, Berlin, Germany, in collaboration with researchers from the Klinikum rechts der Isar of Technical University Munich and Christian Albrecht University, Kiel, have identified a gene variant on chromosome 11 that is associated with an increased risk of atopic dermatitis.
See also:

In a large genome-wide association study the researchers scanned the genomes of more than 9600 participants from Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic. “Our findings cast new light on the pathogenesis of the disease,” said Professor Young-Ae Lee (Charité / MDC). The pediatrician-researcher and her collaborators hope the study will lead to a new approach to targeted therapy for this chronic skin disorder.

More and more people suffer from atopic dermatitis, which is also known as atopic or infantile eczema. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic (long-lasting) inflammatory skin disease that typically affects the large flexures such as the bend of the elbows or the back of the knees. Patients suffer from recurrent flares of intense itching, dryness and redness of the skin, with weeping of clear fluid in the acute stage, and skin thickening (lichenification) in the chronic stage. Along with hay fever and asthma, atopic dermatitis is one of the most common allergic disorders. In the industrialized countries about 15 percent of young children are affected.

Atopic dermatitis is typically the first clinical manifestation of allergic disease. In most cases atopic dermatitis appears within the first few years of life. For the majority of affected children this marks the beginning of an “allergic career”, which in later years evolves into hay fever or asthma. Just what triggers the outbreak of atopic dermatitis is not yet fully understood. However, epidemiological studies indicate that the genetic contribution is substantial.

For that reason, of the total of 9600 study participants, the scientists decided to scrutinize the genomes of 3011 individuals more closely. These included children and adults with atopic dermatitis, healthy controls, as well as entire families in which at least two children have atopic dermatitis. The researchers scanned the entire genome, searching for genetic variants that are especially common in atopic dermatitis patients.

The study demonstrates that several genes are involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. Most importantly, the researchers identified a variant on chromosome 11 that is particularly common in the patients with atopic dermatitis. This variant is located in a region containing the gene C11orf30 which encodes the protein EMSY. The scientists suspect that a mutation in this gene is associated with atopic dermatitis. However, the exact role of EMSY in atopic dermatitis still needs to be investigated.

Same variant also a risk factor for Crohn’s disease

The same variant on chromosome 11 is also common in patients with Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Scientists therefore suspect that this variant on chromosome 11 will unravel a novel common disease mechanism that can lead to chronic inflammation of various organs. The variant is very widespread: in Europe, 36 percent of the population are carriers. Now the MDC and Charité scientists want to decipher the exact function of EMSY in atopic dermatitis.

Furthermore, the scientists show that other previously unknown variants in genes related to the outermost skin layer (epidermis) increase the risk for the disease. The researchers hope that their findings will contribute to improved treatment for atopic dermatitis sufferers. “To develop a targeted intervention,” they explained, “we must first fully understand the underlying disease mechanism.”

Journal reference:

1. Esparza-Gordillo et al. A common variant on chromosome 11q13 is associated with atopic dermatitis. Nature Genetics, 2009; DOI: 10.1038/ng.347

Adapted from materials provided by Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

Acne Symptoms and Treatments

SYMPTOMS

Acne is often not apparent to an observer. Inflamed pores, however, can cause pain or itching. The most troubling aspect of acne for many people is the scarring that can occur. And, while acne may not be very noticeable, individuals tend to be sensitive about their appearance. Teenagers especially may become concerned about the way other people react to them.

DIAGNOSIS

While many with acne often choose to self-treat or are treated by family doctors, more serious cases are referred to a dermatologist (a specialist in skin disorders) or an endocrinologist (a specialist in hormonal disorders). Because of its appearance, acne is generally not difficult to diagnose. A doctor takes a complete medical history, which includes questions about skin, diet, medication use, and other factors associated with risk for acne. He or she conducts a physical examination of the face, upper neck, chest, shoulders, back, and other affected areas. The doctor determines the number and type of blemishes, whether they are inflamed or not, whether they are deep or near the surface of the skin, and whether there is scarring or skin discoloration. Laboratory tests are not done unless the patient appears to have a hormonal disorder. In that case, blood tests and other tests may be ordered. Most insurance plans cover the cost of diagnosing and treating acne.

ANTI-ACNE DRUGS
Brand Name (Generic Name) and their possible common side effects:

Accutane (isotretinoin) > Dry skin, dry mouth, conjunctivitis
Benzamycin > Dry and itchy skin
Cleocin T (clindamycin phosphate)    Dry skin
Desquam-E (benzoyl peroxide) > Itching, red and peeling skin
Erythromycin topical (A/T/S, erycette, t-stat) > Burning, dry skin, hives, red and peeling skin
Minocin (minocycline hydrochloride) > Headache, hives, diarrhea, peeling skin, vomiting
Retin-A (tretinoin) > Darkening of the skin, blistering, crusted, or puffy skin

Organic Face Masks at Home

SPA INDEX PAPAYA PUMPKIN FACIAL

If you have visited spas and resorts in exotic locales such as the Pacific Rim, Bali, Hawaii, and Tahiti, you’ve probably seen an esthetician select and mash fresh fruit in front of you for a fresh-on-the spot enzyme mask. It’s easy to recreate this mask at home — we’ve found a Balinese mask for you which will leave your face fresh and glowing.

2/3 cup fresh papaya, mashed
15 oz. can pure pumpkin
1 egg, beaten

1. Prepare the mask. Cut the papaya in half and scoop out the seeds. Scoop out the papaya fruit and mash it well to eliminate lumps in the mask. Beat the egg until it is frothy. Combine that with the papaya. Add the pumpkin to the egg/papaya mixture and whip together. You can also mix the ingredients in the blender or a food processor for an extra smooth mask.

2. Prepare your face. Wash with your daily cleanser and remove all residual makeup on your skin. Rinse with warm water. It’s very important to have clean skin to ensure you get maximum benefits from the facial.

3. Apply the Mask. Cover your entire face, being careful to avoid the immediate eye area. If you have sensitive skin, test the mixture on your hand before spreading it on your face. You’ll feel some tingling as the enzymes in the pumpkin go to work immediately — gently exfoliating your top layer of skin. It works like a scrub without being abrasive to your skin. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes.

4. Rinse Off Mask. After you’ve relaxed for ten minutes it’s time to rinse. The mask is fairly thick — head for the kitchen sink.

5. Apply Toner & Moisturizer.

LEMON FACIAL MASK

2 tablespoons sour cream
1 teaspoon finely ground oatmeal
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 drop lemon essential oil
Cucumber slices (optional)
Mix the sour cream, oatmeal, lemon juice and essential together in a bowl. To use, massage over clean face and neck skin and the rest for 10 minutes (with cucumber slices if you have them) over your eyes. Rinse well with warm water and follow with toner and moisturizer.

Always use Lemon Facial Mask immediately for best results — the lemon juice will cause the sour cream to curdle if it is not used quickly.

AVOCADO CARROT CREAM MASK

This mask combines avocados, which are rich in Vitamin E, with carrots, which are high in beta-carotene and antioxidants, and cream, which is high in calcium and protein.  These ingredients will rebuild skin collagen, improve tone and texture, and fade age spots.

1 avocado, mashed
1 carrot, cooked and mashed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 egg, beaten
3 tablespoons honey

Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.  Spread gently over your face and neck, and leave in place 10-15 minutes.  Rinse with cool water and follow with your favorite toner.

Avocado Dry Skin Masque
California Avocado Commission

Beat the yolk of an egg until it is light and frothy, then add the mashed pulp of a half avocado, blending it well (you may use a blender at this point). Cleanse your face thoroughly before using this masque (or any masque). Spread the avocado mixture over the face and neck evenly; relax on a slant board or bed for about 20 minutes. Remove with clear tepid water and a face cloth, followed by a rinse of cold water or a mild skin lotion. The result should be a marked improvement in skin texture, and all-around revitalizing.

Avocado Oily Skin Masque
California Avocado Commission

Put the white of an egg, a teaspoon of lemon juice, and the mashed pulp of a half avocado into a blender. In seconds, you should have a lovely green mixture. Wash your face and neck thoroughly, then apply masque evenly on those areas. Relax for 20 minutes; remove with tepid water and a face cloth. Follow with cold astringent or skin tonic.

ALMOND-MAYONNAISE SCRUB
Dry Skin Exfoliator

1/4 C. almonds
1/8 tsp. mayonnaise

Grind almonds in blender until they form fine almond meal. Whirl in mayonnaise.  Gentle rub scrub onto your face, and leave in place 10 minutes. Rinse. Use a toner thereafter.  Shelf Life: Refrigerate for 2-3 weeks.

Apple Cucumber Facial Mask
1/2 cucumber, peeled
1 egg white
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon apple mint leaves
1 drop lime essential oil
Combine all 5 ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth. Add the essential oil last and mix well. Refrigerate the mixture for 10 minutes.

Apply a layer to your clean face and neck area and leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse well with warm water. Apple Cucumber Facial Mask is best when used immediately as the ingredients are perishable. The leftovers can be refrigerated in the coldest section of the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days but should be discarded after that

Apple Face & Neck Gelee
Yield: Approx. 2 applications
Ingredients:
4 teaspoons hot distilled water
1 teaspoon freshly juiced apple juice
1 teaspoon aloe vera gel
4 teaspoons vegetable glycerin
1 heaping teaspoon powdered pectin

Add the glycerin to the water/juice/gel combination and stir to fully incorporate.  Add the pectin while the liquid remains quite warm (if it cools, place it in the microwave or a double boiler to raise the temperature) and use a hand held electric mixer to blend, or stir vigorously to dissolve the pectin. Once the pectin has fully dissolved, a light gel will begin to form. This may take from 15 minutes to 1/2 hour. Once the gel sets, Apple Face & Neck Gelee is ready to use. Apply the gel in a layer to your clean, damp face and neck. Rest for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and follow with a light moisturizer if desired. Leftover product can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Enjoy!! The shelf life of this product is necessarily limited by the fresh apple juice. It should be used within a few days after it is made.

Chemical Peels - Are They Right for You?

With so many beauty products, facial treatments and surgical procedures available these days, it can be overwhelming to choose a treatment that is right for you. First off, when trying any new skincare treatment or procedure, it is always important to do your research, seek out reputable sources and never be afraid to ask questions, after all, it is your face – you only have one, so treat it accordingly. Selecting the right specialist or understanding details of a surgical procedure will be time consuming, be prepared to put in the time necessary to make the best choice. Below are some tips to help you get started.

Choose carefully. The Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery recommends you:
•    Check educational, training, background credentials and experience to ensure that he or she is well-qualified
•    Ask how many times they have performed this procedure
•    Ask to see before and after photos of patients who have had chemical peels - in some cases offices will give you contact information of previous patients as referrals.

Dermatologists, plastic surgeons, licensed estheticians and registered nurses can all perform chemical peels. However, depending on the type of peel, you might need to see a doctor. Ensure your procedure is both safe and effective.

Schedule a skin consultation. A chemical peel is an aggressive treatment, it’s important that you get an in-depth analysis of your skin beforehand. When at the consultation, make sure the specialist knows your medical history and any prescriptions you may be taking. Be prepared to ask questions, such as what is my skin type? What are my skin concerns? How can chemical peels improve my skin? What kind of peel is best for my skin type?

Become a peel expert. There are three types of chemical peels: superficial, medium and deep. In addition, they increase substantially in cost depending on the peel. The cost ranges from $150 to $300 for superficial peels; $1,000 to $2,000 for medium peels and $2,500 up to $5,000 for deep peels, according to Smart SkinCare:
Superficial: The mildest of chemical peels, superficial peels treat fine lines, discoloration, dryness, roughness and mild acne. Results are subtle and you will need regular maintenance sessions. Estheticians typically perform superficial peels. Common solutions: Alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs (e.g., glycolic acid, lactic acid), salicylic acid

Medium: These peels penetrate deeper into the skin, producing a second-degree burn. Medium peels treat wrinkles, pigmentation problems, sun damage and blemishes. You will need at least a week to recover. You’ll also need several peels to achieve desired results. Common solution: Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
Deep: These peels target deep wrinkles, dramatic discoloration and skin lesions. Deep peels are the most effective, providing pronounced and long-lasting results. However, they are also riskier with longer recovery time—most people take two weeks off from work. A certified, experienced plastic surgeon must perform these peels. This peel is performed once. Common solution: Phenol

Consider your skin type. Be aware that a chemical peel is not always the best option for your skin type. These are several examples when a chemical peel isn’t appropriate or can be helpful. In most cases, a chemical peel should not be used on dry or sensitive skin. A peel might cause dryness, flakiness, itching and further inflammation. If you have inflammatory acne and deep cysts, you should also consult a dermatologist, as a chemical peel might not be the best treatment for those conditions.

Chemical peels are a good choice if you experience mild to moderate acne or acne scars: The acids in the peel work to both kill active blemishes on the surface and to prevent new blemishes from forming. By accelerating the exfoliation process, a chemical peel delivers clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Become an expert on your chemical peel. Before having the chemical peel, make sure you ask every question possible to ensure you are aware of the entire procedure and its potential complications.
Examples like; what strength is the peel? How many sessions will I need? What are the pros and cons? What kind of discomfort, pain and other reactions can I expect during the procedure? How should my skin react after the chemical peel?

Communication is key in making your chemical peel a safe experience. Clarify you are experiencing normal reactions or seek immediate attention if you think you are not. Remember if something doesn’t feel right, only you can speak up about it.

About two to four weeks prior to your chemical peel, the specialist will ask you to incorporate pre-care products into your daily regimen. These products are designed to thin out the skin’s surface, allowing the peel to penetrate deeper and evenly. Your medical expert might prescribe Retin-A, an AHA product or hydroquinone cream.
When using these new products, you might have to discontinue your old ones. Your specialist will give you specific information about what products to use and avoid.
Depending on the type of peel, your results might be subtle or dramatic. Every skin type reacts a bit differently. Be realistic about the results and fully understand to what degree the peel will improve your skin and whether you will need additional sessions to maintain results.

How Do I Reduce My Wrinkles?

Advertising is all around you. Daily you are bombarded with claims that one product will work better than the competition. If you are unfamiliar with a new product, you can only rely on the truthfulness of the advertiser’s claims or the “scientific study” they  undertook or a friend’s positive feedback before you decide to part with your hard-earned dollars. In the case of skincare products, the claims can be even more confusing as one product will prove to work “miracles” for your friend, yet do nothing special for you.

This is not to say that no anti-aging or wrinkle treatment will ever work. Just remember that there is no magic treatment. The best way to have great skin is by preventing. Protect your skin from the sun and take care of it both inside and out. If you had applied an SPF 30 sunblock every 2 hours everyday of your life since the day you were born (or stayed out of the sun completely), you would most likely look years younger and have very few wrinkles. But that is not realistic is it?

Reality is that many of you probably skipped the sunscreen altogether for a “great tan” a few summers running, and because most of you aren’t hermits, you may already have a few wrinkles and aging skin.  Perhaps you are looking for something to help get rid of them. You want to know, how can you reduce your wrinkles? Some treatments may work, some might not. Some treatments do what they say, some don’t. You want to find the treatments that don’t promise the world but instead deliver real results.Proper sun protection is a big start to preventing further damage.

Next to daily SPF, the next best thing you can do for your wrinkles is moisturize. You should use a moisturizer with an SPF of 15 or higher in the morning and use a night cream suited for your skin type in the evening. Another important way to keep your skin hydrated is by drinking enough water. You hear it time and again because proper hydration is key to plumping up dry skin cells and detoxifying your body.

In addition to regular cleansing and moisturizing regimens, you can add an occasional facial or peel. A peel removes the dead skins cells from the top layer of facial skin to reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion.  If a chemical peel seems too expensive or harsh, you could use a facial scrub, but be aware of hard, rough grains that can tear delicate facial tissue. Try to find a facial scrub with beaded moisturizers or enzymes. You could also use a peel less frequently and try a scrub a week or so.

Finally, there are all the “Anti-Aging” products. You can find lotions, serums, toners, and just about anything that claims to diminish wrinkles. Some products work for some people and not others. You really need to do some of your own experimenting. If you have dry skin look for a nice moisturizing anti-aging lotion. Stay away from things you know you are allergic to and keep an eye on ingredients that don’t work before buying another product. Give every product at least a week or two, unless you experience any allergic reactions, before you give it up and move on. It takes some time for most products to produce results.

Facial Masks at Home

Spending a ton of money to buy a facial product that does not deliver is more than depressing, it’s enough to make you angry. So many products these days claim to have “all natural ingredients” that are far less than natural. Beautiful skin can be had through wide varieties of cosmetics available in supermarkets, department stores, health food stores as well as the internet and infomercials. But if you are taking yet another chance on a product that may not work, why not try out something more economical at home first? Consider your skin type and follow the simple recipes below for an at-home beauty treatment.

Not everybody has the same skin type. What product works on your friend’s skin, might not work for you and vice versa. If you buy a product for your skin type, it could have adverse effect as there could be some chemical or ingredient which could cause a reaction on your skin.

Cosmetics labeled as having “natural ingredients” do contain some amount of artificial chemicals or elements. With natural, yet over priced cosmetics being far too much for today’s tight budget, many have begun preparing beauty products at home. Making a facial mask at home with all the ingredients available in the kitchen is quite easy and inexpensive.

Firsts, create a salon like atmosphere. Light a few candles, dim the lights and put on some soothing music. Tie your hair in high ponytail or wear a band around head to pull your hair away from your face. Slip into a luxuriously soft bath robe or do what ever makes you feel more comfortable.

Start by splashing tepid water all over your face. Massage your face gently with water. Repeat it twice or thrice and let your face air dry. While your face is still damp, massage vitamin E on your face. Let your face soak the oil for 5 minutes or so. Use a mild soap to remove the oil from your face.

Again splash your face with water at room temperate. Repeat it for 2 or 3 times. Avoid towel drying your face.

Try these home-blend facial masks.

1. Blend 1 egg white or fresh Aloe Vera juice of same quantity, 2 tsp vegetable oil and 1 tsp pure apple juice in a clean bowl.

Dip your hands in the facial mask and apply the mask to your skin. Start with your chin, move upwards and then outwards skipping the area around the eyes and lips.

LEMON FACIAL MASK

2 tablespoons sour cream
1 teaspoon finely ground oatmeal
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 drop lemon essential oil
Cucumber slices (optional)
Mix the sour cream, oatmeal, lemon juice and essential together in a bowl. To use, massage over clean face and neck skin and the rest for 10 minutes (with cucumber slices if you have them) over your eyes. Rinse well with warm water and follow with toner and moisturizer.

Always use Lemon Facial Mask immediately for best results — the lemon juice will cause the sour cream to curdle if it is not used quickly.

AVOCADO CARROT CREAM MASK
This mask combines avocados, which are rich in Vitamin E, with carrots, which are high in beta-carotene and antioxidants, and cream, which is high in calcium and protein.  These ingredients will rebuild skin collagen, improve tone and texture, and fade age spots.

1 avocado, mashed
1 carrot, cooked and mashed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 egg, beaten
3 tablespoons honey

Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.  Spread gently over your face and neck, and leave in place 10-15 minutes.  Rinse with cool water and follow with your favorite toner.

Avocado Dry Skin Masque
Beat the yolk of an egg until it is light and frothy, then add the mashed pulp of a half avocado, blending it well (you may use a blender at this point). Cleanse your face thoroughly before using this masque (or any masque). Spread the avocado mixture over the face and neck evenly; relax on a slant board or bed for about 20 minutes. Remove with clear tepid water and a face cloth, followed by a rinse of cold water or a mild skin lotion. The result should be a marked improvement in skin texture, and all-around revitalizing.

Avocado Oily Skin Masque
Put the white of an egg, a teaspoon of lemon juice, and the mashed pulp of a half avocado into a blender. In seconds, you should have a lovely green mixture. Wash your face and neck thoroughly, then apply masque evenly on those areas. Relax for 20 minutes; remove with tepid water and a face cloth. Follow with cold astringent or skin tonic.

ALMOND-MAYONNAISE SCRUB
Dry Skin Exfoliator

1/4 C. almonds
1/8 tsp. mayonnaise

Grind almonds in blender until they form fine almond meal. Whirl in mayonnaise.  Gentle rub scrub onto your face, and leave in place 10 minutes. Rinse. Use a toner thereafter.  Shelf Life: Refrigerate for 2-3 weeks.

Apple Cucumber Facial Mask
1/2 cucumber, peeled
1 egg white
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon apple mint leaves
1 drop lime essential oil
Combine all 5 ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth. Add the essential oil last and mix well. Refrigerate the mixture for 10 minutes.

Apply a layer to your clean face and neck area and leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse well with warm water. Apple Cucumber Facial Mask is best when used immediately as the ingredients are perishable. The leftovers can be refrigerated in the coldest section of the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days but should be discarded after that

Now you have to just sit back and relax. Cover your eyes with wet cotton balls or cucumber pieces. The mask has to dry completely. This is An ideal time for meditation or a small nap.

A facial mask takes anywhere from 20 - 30 minutes to dry. You will feel your skin tighten when the mask is dry. Splash water all over face and gently remove the mask with light massage strokes on your face. Continue doing this till your face is cleared of the entire home made facial mask. Let your face air dry.

Use these home made facial masks once or twice a month or depending up on the time you have on hand. You will feel refreshed, have more radiant skin and more money in the bank.

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