Parabens oh my!

Parabens have been declared safe in the concentrations they are used in skin care and cosmetics – up to 0.25% in the United States.  And based on the evidence, most agree with the FDA’s decision:  parabens have not been shown to cause cancer or hormonal defects  in the typical concentrations they are used in skin care or cosmetics products in vivo.  Nor have they been shown to “build up” in the skin for longer than 36 hours at a time. 
A study in the Journal of Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology states we eat ten times more parabens in foods than we apply topically.

Vitamin A benefits for our skin

Most of us have heard more or less about ‘Retin A’ and ‘Retinols’ for our skin. Retin A is a topical form of Vitamin A use to treat conditions including acne, oily skin and wrinkles.Vitamin A has a molecular structure that’s tiny enough to get into the lower layers of skin, where it finds collagen and elastin, therefore the perfect anti-aging agent. There are different forms of Vitamin  A, a few most commonly used are retinol and retinoids.  Retinoids(Retin A) are only available with a prescription due to the fact that they are more aggressive and can get very pricey. Retinol which is very commonly used in cosmetic to proven to improve pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles,skin texture, skin tone and color, and your skin’s hydration levels. Retinol next to SPF is single most important and widely used ingredient in cosmetics. 

Kojic Acid to Lighten Skin

Many people question what was the reason that the experts chose Kojic acid as an ingredient? The simple answer of this question is because Kojic acidpapaya also helps you lighten the skin. The reason is that the Kojic acid nourishes the skin and makes it look better.
The chemical peel is not difficult to use at all; all you have to do is just apply it on the desired surface once every two weeks. After two weeks, you will eventually start feeling the results. You will notice that your skin has started getting lighter and there are fewer dark pigments on your skin. Some others may have to wait a little longer. You can use it on elbows, arms, knees and face. The use of a moisturizer is must if you are thinking to apply it in face. Give two minutes to absorb to start its magic. Once the serum has been absorbed into the face, you can resume makeup application. If used too much in the face, the serum can cause dryness, so be sure to use sparingly.
As Kojic acid also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, it is often used in the skin care products to lighten melasma, pregnancy marks and decrease hyperpigmentation. It controls the pigmentation problem by erasing the root of the problem i.e. melanin production. Kojic acid does nothing but countering the activity of tyrosinase. Tyrosinase is actually an enzyme that produces melanin.

How To Treat Depressed Acne Scars

There are thousands of people out there, young and old, who are plagued with acne and the scars that go along with them. These scars can leave a lasting effect on a persons self esteem and can drive people to feel depressed or even have major anxiety. People who have these scars always wonder what is the best way they can get rid of these scars.

First and foremost, it is important to see a dermatologist before attempting anything on your skin and to be sure that your acne is under control so you don't get any new acne scars.

Secondly, try a series of different types of chemical peels that fit your skin type and deliver the results you are looking for. Different chemical peels that are helpful are:

Jessner's Peel - a mixture of lactic acid, salicylic acid and resorcinol which help revitalize the skin like no other.

TCA Peels - provide superficial to medium depth and relies on the concentration of the peel. The peels strength usually range from 10%-30%.

The key is to have your acne under control before attempting anything.

Glycolic Acid Attacks Bacteria In Pimples?

There are many different types of chemical peels: Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid Peel, Jessner's Peel, TCA Peel, AHA Peels, a our special Fusion Peel, but only a couple of them attack the bacteria that causes the development of pimples. A study was performed by a doctor in Japan name Dr. Yuko Takenaka at Tokyo Women's Medical University. Their study wanted to determine the effect of glycolic acid chemical peels on inflammatory acne.

The doctor and her team performed the study on nine women aged 25-35 with severe cases of acne. They found that each woman all had a bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes, which is associated with acne. Each researcher grew the bacteria in a petri dish and then added glycolic acid. The results found that the glycolic acid had inhibited the growth of the bacteria. With these promising results, the doctor and her team applied glycolic acid to one side of the subjects faces. 

The study showed that the bacteria on the side of where the glycolic acid was applied had significantly less bacteria than the other cheek that wasn't treated with the glycolic acid. Moreover, the side applied with glycolic acid had significantly less acne scars then the side not applied with the glycolic acid.

This research supports the use of chemical peels and the effectiveness that it has on the individuals who have cystic acne and strongly suggests that glycolic acid is a great substitute to the harsh alternative of benzoyl peroxide.

Want to see if it works for you? Try our glycolic peels today!

Fruit-Based Skin Care System Improves Photodamaged Skin

A  double blinded, randomized, controlled clinical usage study reported—compared to the control—statistically significant improvements in the appearance of photoaged skin after 12 weeks of topical application of a novel, multi-ingredient, polyphenol, high-antioxidant skin care system  day lotion and eye serum, containing Coffea Arabica, and concentrated fruit extracts.

A total of 40 Caucasian female participants were randomly assigned to apply the test regimen or control regimen for 12 weeks. One group applied the test antioxidant day lotion each morning, and the test antioxidant eye serum each evening. The second group washed with a control facial wash twice daily and applied a control moisturizer each morning and evening. Clinical evaluations for efficacy were made by a board-certified dermatologist at baseline, and after six and 12 weeks of product use. Efficacy was also measured by subjects' self-assessments and via photography and instrumentation.


Overall, the results of the study showed the test regimen produced statistically significant improvements in the appearance of photodamaged skin. Most impressive was the significantly greater improvements produced by the test regimen over the control for nearly every grading parameter. The results demonstrate this high total ORAC-scoring antioxidant skin care system was well tolerated, with no adverse events reported by the participants during the course of the study. It improved—significantly greater than the control regimen—the appearance of wrinkles, firmness, hyperpigmentation, blotchy redness, tactile roughness and clarity in photodamaged skin. Post-baseline clinical grading scores, silicone replica parameters, cutometer and corneometer scores were statistically compared to baseline.
     

Containing Cold Sores When Performing Chemical Peels

Cold sores can occur when there is any type of disturbance to the skin, even when performing a chemical peel. Before performing any type of chemical peel on yourself, it is important that you visit a dermatologist to make sure you are fit to perform any type of peel or speak to a licensed esthetician. Speak to a professional and explain to them that you have had breakouts of cold sores in the past. In order to prevent the cold sores from inflammation, it may behoove the individual to start medication to prevent or even diminish the possibility of reactivation of the cold sores.


Approximately 90% of people are infected or have been infected by some form of the Herpes Virus. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion all stimulate the skin and can reactivate the virus that usually live in the sensory nerves.


The chemical peels stimulate the nerves and decrease the barriers allowing the virus to start and the cold sores to form. If the peel is more superficial, doctors will prescribe different medications to combat the cold sores. Superficial peels can include Glycolic Acid, TCA peels and Jessner Peels. 


Chemical peels are extremely safe when you have cold sores, however the key to containing them is preventing them from the beginning!

Just because you're Wiser , doesn't mean you have to look Older

As we all know too well there is never a moment in your life when gravity is not trying to push your skin down. It’s quite simply the law of physics, and you will not be able to avoid this unless you’re living in an anti-gravity chamber!(only a forthunate few) During your youth, your skin is incredibly firm with a strong layer of collagen, and it supports itself against the downward pull of gravity. However, as collagen breaks down and weakens as we age, the skin can no longer support itself against a lifetime of pressure from gravity. As the skin loosens and the impact of gravity pushes it downward, wrinkles form due to the sagging skin. Fortunately, there are many anti wrinkle creams and products that can improve the production of collagen in your skin on a daily basis to keep it firmer and wrinkle-free. Don't forget chemical exfoliaton in conjunction with a skin care regimen.

Battling Acne Scars & Rejuvenating The Skin

A simple pimple can really ruin someones day, but thankfully they usually heal and we forget all about it until the next one pops up. However, there are several types of acne that leave scars that last for a few months, even years. Several treatments can be done to lower the visibility of the acne scars and improve your skins appearance but more often than not, rejuvenating your skin to the way it looked before the acne scar may be nearly impossible.

There are several different hoops to jump through in order to clear up existing acne. It is important to discuss with a dermatologist what the safest, most effective way is to conquer acne scars. As soon as the acne scars have been reduced, it's important to try a cream or gel to reduce the way the superficial scars and skin discoloration look. There are several products that contain collagen-boosting ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C, and glycolic acid that reduce the visibility of the scars and plump the skin!

Several dermatologists recommend a skin treatment such as a chemical peel or a microdermabrasion treatment. When a dermatologist does a laser resurfacing treatment, the doctor uses harmful lasers to cut away the top layer of the skin to reveal the new skin below. Microdermabrasion procedures use manual, less harmful techniques to wash away the damaged layer of skin.

Microdermabrasion No Longer Just for the Rich and Famous

What began as a treatment for the rich and famous is now a mainstream technique performed by professionals and done in many bathrooms at home. Microdermabrasion is a technique that not only improves the appearance of your skin but it also makes it healthier.
 It is much more affordable than Botox or facelifts.
The technique of microdermabrasion is often offered by plastic surgeons, dermatologists or estheticians. It can be completed in both a home and professional setting. The technique is the very outer layer of your skin is rubbed off using a very gradual and pain free method. That skin being sloughed away comes along with health benefits and a enhanced appearance.

Although it sounds like a complicated process, microdermabrasion can be easily completed at home. Instead of using a machine you simply rub our Glycolic Micro Peel Scrub into your skin. The scrub has micro crystals imbedded into it and those crystals wear away the skin when they are rubbed around. After exfoliating you simply wash it away.
It is very important to then moisturize your skin. Most of the moisture from your skin is held within that outer layer of dead skin cells. When they are removed, so is the moisture and it is important to get it back to retain your healthy skin.
A good majority of your minor facial imperfections are made noticeable by the outer layer of your skin. With that layer removed those imperfections are no less noticeable. You will go from having wrinkled and sun damaged skin to having many less wrinkles and no noticeable sun damage.
More distinguished blemishes can be removed by performing the treatment several different times. After you have had it done a few times your body begins to adapt to the whole process. The lower layers of skin know that your body is being attacked and in order to compensate they begin working overtime to produce healthy cells. With healthier skin some blemishes vanish.

5 of the Worst Bad Habits that Lead to Acne

Contrary to popular belief acne isn't just about putting the best products on your face( although this does help tremendously)  It takes a balanced approach to solve any acne situation, and you must take more precautions if your condition is severe.

One of the most frustrating things about dealing with bad skin is when you accidentally make it worse!  Here are a few tips you shuld heed caution to in order to keep your skin healthy and looking great.

1. Popping Pimples
It's a very tricky situation when you've decided to pop a pimple.   The thought process is that if you can, you'll get rid of the blemish quickly.  But popping pimples will lead to further breakouts and the spread of bacteria.  It will also leave your face discolored and possibly scarred.

2.Excessive Washing
Logic would dictate that if you keep your face clean you would prevent blockages and rid yourself of excess oil.  Unfortunately, a lot of people go way overboard and they end up drying their skin completely with too much daily washing.  Only wash twice daily and please avoid using hot water.

3. Sun Tanning
It does not matter if you have acne or not- it's very important for you to stay protected under the sun's harmful rays. There is a common myth that tanning with get rid of acne, while it may hide the problem with darker skin tones- this is not a cure.  Please use sunscreen we recommend our Green Tea SPF 30

4. Smoking
Too many negative aspects to this to list, increasing acne is low on the importance scale.  If you smoke, please seek guidance to try and quit.

5.Looking in the Mirror
Some folks spend way too much time staring in the mirror.  Don't let acne be your life look for good treatment plans and stick with them for long term results.  Our Fusion Peel is a great choice for acne.

Does Neutralizer Burn?

A young woman did her first 70% Glycolic Acid full body peel last night and said she pretty much needed to rinse it off immediately. She poured the baking soda/water mix all over to neutralize the peel but said it felt like she poured gasoline on herself and lit a match!!! Is it supposed to burn?

The baking soda contains sodium bicarbonate which is a very strong base. When it is introduced to the acid (Gycolic acid) it reacts to form a salt (and water) which is called a neutralization reaction. This reaction is exothermic (releases heat). This heat combined with the salt formed would definitely cause quite the discomfort but it quickly subsides. After neutralization you should always flush with cold water. This will soothe the skin and remove the salt, then apply your serums.  Hope this helps!

5 Easy Steps to Hydrated Summer Skin

 

This past week the sun has been out in force, encouraging everyone to spend more time outside.

But while the constant rise in temperature and increase in sunshine is definitely welcomed by many, it poses many hazards for your skin as it struggles to stay hydrated.

There are many ways you can stay on top of your skincare this summer, keeping it soft, supple and with a sunny glow.

1. Exfoliate

Exfoliating your skin helps to improve and remove any  dead skin cells by reducing flakiness and exposing the younger, smoother skin.

By using an product such as our Glycolic Micro Scrub at least two times a week this can help clear the pores, leaving skin feeling cleaner and revitalised.

Scrubbing in gentle circular motions will also assist in improving circulation, keeping skin glowing and also possibly break up unwanted cellulite around your body.

2. Moisturize

Moisturizing is an essential component in achieving hydrated skin. In the harsher summer weather it pays to have both a day and night moisturizer, both of which will have different purposes.

The day serum delivers nutrients deeper into the epidermis & higher concentrations of actives.

Meanwhile a night moisturizer should be much heavier, but also gentle on the skin with no harsh chemicals, meaning you can keep it on all night as it penetrates deeper into the skin.

3. Chemical Exfoliants

The use of a chemical exfoliant such as Glycolic Acid can be used for those times when your skin needs a quick pick me up.

These Chemical Peels work well when used once bi-weekly week along with a regular moisturising routine, giving skin back its glow.

4. Protect yourself from the sun

The biggest threat to your skin during the summer is undoubtedly the sun.

This is why it is imperative to invest in sun screen with a high level of UVA and UVB protection, shielding your skin from harmful rays, as well as damage, such as burning and increased ageing.

Applied regularly sun screen can also help in your daily moisturizing routine, allowing you to top up your skin's moisture levels on the go.

5. Drink lots of water

Finally one of the absolute musts if you want to keep skin properly hydrated is drinking plenty of water each day.

Carrying a bottle with you and drinking little and often is a sure-fire way to ensure you're getting enough water.

Please read before you try to lighten your skin

A recent warning issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) says that the common ingredient in skin lightening products — mercury — can have adverse effects such as kidney damage, reduction in the skin's resistance to bacterial and fungal infections, anxiety, depression or psychosis and also peripheral neuropathy.

The warning is especially serious  as a large portion of the dermatological market consists of skin lightening products. Apart from mercury, the creams may also contain harmful ingredients such as hydroquinone and ammonia. 

 Hydroquinone leads to permanent disruption of melanocytes, which produces melanins.

After long term use, some cells become permanently inactive resulting in white patches.

Some creams have raw acid in the form of ammonia. Ammonia is a bleaching agent which burns the skin. Not surprisingly, advertisements for lightening creams come with a shade card to mark the stages in the progress from dark to a lighter skin. Regular use of such products may loosen the skin and lead to wrinkles.

Next time, look before you purchase. The names to look for on the cover include mercury, Hg, mercuric iodide, mercurous chloride, ammoniated mercury, amide chloride of mercury, quicksilver, cinnabaris, hydrargyri oxydum rubrum (mercury oxide), mercury iodide. Directions to avoid contact with silver, gold, rubber, aluminum and jewelry may also indicate the presence of mercury.

We recommend our Arbutin Discoloration Duo. Tyrosinase is an enzyme at the root of pigment. Without it, you wouldnt have any color and an over abundance of it makes more color.

So, the fix is to control this enzyme and nature has blessed us with a natural ingredient to do so.

Its known as Alpha Arbutin and it is great at suppressing tyrosinase.

How Daily Facial Cleansing Can Be the Easiest Part of the Beauty Routine

Daily facial cleansing may appear to be the simplest and easiest part of the beauty routine, and if done correctly can promote a healthy glow. “Finding the right cleanser for your skin type is very important but that is only the first step,” says Dr. David Bank, President of the New York State Society for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery. “Equally important is knowing how to properly cleanse your face.” Below Dr. Bank gives you the top ingredients to look for in a facial cleanser for different skin woes. 

• ACNE-PRONE: Look for cleansers with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulfur. These ingredients will gently exfoliate skin while removing bacteria and dirt that can clog pores and form acne.
• ANTI-AGING: Look for cleansers with alpha-hydroxyl acid, vitamins A, B, C and E, and green tea extract. They will exfoliate skin, removing dead skin cells and help new cell growth while repairing skin damage due to environmental assaults.
• SENSITIVE SKIN: Cleansers that contain lactic acid, glycerin or hyaluronic acid will work to clean the skin without provoking irritation.
• DRY SKIN: Ingredients like vitamin A, C and F and hyaluronic acid work best for dry skin as they help hydrate the skin by holding moisture and drawing it deep into the skin.
• REDNESS: Aloe vera, soy and chamomile are ingredients that are gentle and moisturizing enough to the skin so irritation will not occur while cleansing.

The second step is learning how to properly cleanse your face. Below are seven simple cleansing rules to clearer, brighter and younger looking skin.

1. Start with Clean Hands: Keep bacteria and dirt from hands at bay by washing hands and then be sure to rinse ALL of the soap off before moving on so that chemicals from the hand soap do not react with the sensitive skin on your face.

2. Remove all make up: Gently remove all make-up with make-up remover towelettes or a cotton pad soaked with olive oil. Removing make-up first allows for a more thorough cleaning.

3. Lukewarm Water: Start with a warm water flush to open pores and loosen dirt. Caution: Water that is too hot can shock skin and cause broken capillaries.

4. Activate the cleanser: Apply face wash onto fingertips of one hand. Rub hands together to form lather; this helps to activate the cleanser.

5. Clean: Work fingertips in a circular motion along the face and neck. It is important to be gentle so that skin does not get irritated. By rubbing in a circular motion you massage the face, stimulating the blood and oxygen.

6. Rinse: Rinse cleanser off by splashing lukewarm water on the face. Do not rub face as this can cause irritation.

7. Pat face dry with a clean towel: Cotton towels work best because they have less of an abrasive nature. Also, wash towels after each use as bacteria clings to washcloths and towels.