The Aesthetic Apothecary

What is "Natural"

2011-12-14T18:48:00.001-05:00

According to the Journal Of Drugs In Dermatology (JDD), "natural" is defined to be something that is neither artificial nor pathologic and an ingredient, one that is produced by nature or found in nature, and that is extracted directly from plant and animal products. Other sources of natural ingredients include herbs, fruits, florals, minerals and water, as well as the sea and earth. Here are a few of my favorite "naturals"...

Tea Tree Oil - also know as melaleuca oil. Obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia. Tea tree oil in a gel form was found to be 3.55 times more effective than placebo for treatment of acne.

Green Tea - made from the steaming and drying of the fresh leaves of the tea plan Cammelia sinensis through a process that preserves its polyphenolic compounds. Know as a potent photoprotectant and antioxidant.

Niacinamide - a water-soluble B vitamin also known as nicotinamide. It is derived from niacin but does not cause the same side effects (flushing). Provides anti-inflammatory activity when used topically without the risk of bacterial resistance.

(JDD June 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 6)

Chemical Free?

2011-11-28T16:48:00.001-05:00

I recently attended a chemistry class at UCLA that was offered to cosmetic professionals including aestheticians, spa owners, cosmetic manufacturers, formulators, marketing professionals from cosmetic companies and even other chemists. Along with small business owners and employees sat individuals from some of the largest cosmetic companies you can think of – Neutrogena, Gunthy Renker, SkinMedica and YG Laboratories to name a few. This wasn't your typical product training class where a representative from a company tells you all about their latest and greatest product, this was hard-core science and chemistry. Not one specific product line was mentioned or discussed. The class was all about ingredients and the science behind what is in your products, regardless of the brand.

Below are a few points that you can take with you the next time you're choosing products on your own, or discussing them with your skin care professional. It is so important to understand how to read labels combined with how certain chemicals may react with your skin.

First, there is no such thing as chemical free products. What!? Wait, how could that be possible with all the "natural" and "organic" products on the market? I'm telling you the truth. Ask any scientist. Everything is made of chemicals except light and electricity, EVERYTHING. We are made of chemicals, so is the computer or smart phone you are reading this on. That organic salad you just had for lunch, yes, chemicals. Water is a chemical.

Given chemistry is the study of matter and its interactions with other matter; anything made of matter is a chemical, any liquid, solid, or gas. Any substance, any mixture is made up of chemicals. Say it with me now, "there is no such thing as chemical free." Now that we have that straight, what is it that you really don't want in your products and why? These are the things you should be thinking about and discussing with your skin care professional.

Second, the active ingredients in a product are not the only things you should be concerned with. Sometimes we spend so much time thinking about the active ingredients (glycolic acid, vitamin C, and retinol for example) that we don't pay attention to what else is in the product. The active ingredients are a very small part of a formulation yet tend to be the most touted to sell the product. Most products contain a base emulsion, processing aids, preservatives/antioxidants, color and sometimes fragrance. If you have sensitive skin or particular skin conditions, the vehicle of your products should be considered.

Third, cosmetic labels are required to show ingredients listed in order of quantity in the overall formula with the first being the most predominant and the last being the least. So when a product is being marketed as a retinoid then see where those ingredients are listed to determine actual quantity. Prescription and over the counter drugs follow different regulations. Ingredients must also be listed by the approved names found in the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) which is published by the Personal Care Products Council. If you can't find an ingredient that is in a product on their list, it is not listed properly. You can visit their website atwww.personalcarecouncil.org .

Just those few tips should give you something to think about when deciding what products to use. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cosmetic chemistry. Cosmetic chemistry is not only about what is in our cosmetic products, but the chemical changes that are happening in and around the cells within our skin and how the chemicals in our products interact with our skins own chemistry. The best thing to do is to bring the products in your skin-care regimen to your skin care professional. They can review the ingredients and determine if they are appropriate for your skin and your personal skin care goals. That information will help tremendously. Skin creams can range from under ten dollars to thousands. There is a reason for this. Be smart. Work to get the facts to determine what works best for you.

Mascara

2011-10-16T14:46:00.001-04:00

I'm not a makeup artist so I try not to blog much about it. However, this morning when I was getting ready I came to the realization that I really like Maybelline Great Lash mascara. A few times a year, for some reason, I am compelled to try a new expense brand. Needless to say, I always go back to that green and pink tube. It's just better...it never gets clumpy or dry... Do you have any suggestions for brands that I could try? Let me know! Whatever brand you use, remember to replace your tube with a new one every three months :)

Proposed Rules on Sprays, SPF Limits

2011-09-22T14:39:00.000-04:00

From the 09.2011 issue of Dermatology World:

In addition to announcing a final rule establishing broad-spectrum and water-resistant standards for sunscreen labels on June 14, the FDA also published a proposed rule that would limit the level of SPF that could appear on a sunscreen label to 50 and a notice of proposed rule making seeking additional data regarding sunscreens in spray form. Zoe Draelos, MD, said the latter is an important issue for dermatologists to educate patients about.

"One of the things dermatologists have known for a long time is that is you don't apply an even coat of sunscreen in sufficient amounts you get insufficient sun protection," Dr. Draelos said. "if you spray on the sunscreen you get little droplets on the skin but you don't get a complete film. Unless you rub, that discontinuous film will not provide optimal sun protection."

MYTH 15 - DIET DOES NOT CAUSE ACNE

2011-09-15T15:20:00.001-04:00

People in some indigenous societies do not experience acne at all. Whether it is genetics or diet - or both or something else - is unclear. Some studies show acne is linked to milk, which leads to p

No More SUNBLOCK!

2011-09-15T15:20:00.000-04:00

New Sunscreen Rules In Brief

Under the sunscreen rules announced by the FDA on June 14:

Sunscreens must pass broad-spectrum UVA testing and have at least an SPF 15 to include the claim that they protect against skin cancer and premature aging on their label. The broad-spectrum test is a pass/fail test based on the critical wavelength value of 370 nm.
Sunscreens can claim to be water resistant for either 40 minutes or 80 minutes; "waterproof," "all-day protection," and "sweat proof" claims will no longer be allowed, nor will use of the term "sunblock."
Sunscreens that do not pass the critical wavelength test and do not have at least an SPF 15 will have a warning in the drug labeling starting that the product will only protect against sunburn and not skin cancer or premature aging.

Good Stuff

2011-08-27T15:05:00.001-04:00

GeoTagged, [N41.96583, E87.75665]

I'm still on vacation, but I saw this and had to share! Hope you're all enjoying the weekend...and if you're in the path of Irene, stay safe.

Beautiful Upstate NY

2011-08-26T09:33:00.001-04:00

The Calm Before Irene

2011-08-26T09:29:00.001-04:00

Still on vacation and we are here in beautiful upstate New York and the news is all about Hurricane Irene. Living in Florida we're used to the lingo that the weather men are tossing around and I'm hoping that my friends and family up this way are preparing.

We are preparing to get outta dodge! Instead of trying to fly south throughout the storm or deal with delayed or cancelled flights, we are going to fly west and spend the weekend in Chicago.

...maybe I should start a travel blog...

Vacation

2011-08-22T07:56:00.001-04:00

GeoTagged, [N44.39612, E73.27728]

Hello loyal readers! I'm blogging from beautiful Shelburne Farms in Vermont. This is the third stop on our "northeast tour".

I'll be back to my regular blogging schedule in a week or so. In the mean time, I'll post a few vaca photos...and don't forget your sunscreen!

MYTH 15 - DIET DOES NOT CAUSE ACNE

2011-08-06T16:49:00.000-04:00

People in some indigenous societies do not experience acne at all. Whether it is genetics or diet - or both or something else - is unclear. Some studies show acne is linked to milk, which leads to postprandial insulin and basal insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) plasma levels. Increased insulin/IGF-I signaling activates the phosphoinositide-3 kinase/Akt pathway, thereby reducing the nuclear content of the transcription factor FoxO1, the key nutrigenomic regulator of acne target genes. Nuclear FoxO1 deficiency has been linked to all major factors of acne pathogenesis, ie, androgen receptor transactivation, comedogenesis, increased sebaceous lipogenesis, and follicular inflammation. The final evidence is not in, but it seems that acne and diet are linked in ways that we did not suspect tow decades ago. Make sure your patients have access to information on theories on the usefulness of dairy-free and/or low glycemic load diets.

*Wow! Did you get that? In a nutshell, if you struggle with acne, try giving up the diary products and see if that helps. Soy milk and almond milk are good options.

CONCLUSIONS
People's assumptions about acne, much like their assumptions about other complex matters, often are the result of misunderstandings and require clarification. It is therefore left to the experts, who often disagree with one another, to dispel myths related to acne in order to enhance our patients' health. The myths that are particularly important to address are those related to the psychological cost of acne, avoiding isotretinoin, and the role of milk in acne. Knowing these myths tunes us in to the acne zeitgeist, so when we step into the treatment room we are ready to listen, educate and act.

This concludes the 15 ACNE MYTHS ADDRESSED. It can be found in total in the June 2011 issue of Skin & Aging www.skinandaging.com

Feel free to comment or ask any questions! Have a great day. Peace, Love & SPF

MYTH 14 - ACNE IS A DISEASE OF TEENAGERS

2011-08-05T16:35:00.001-04:00

Acne certainly affects teenagers, but it affects other age groups as well. Some people develop acne for the first time in their 20s or 30s, and they are often shocked because another myth of acne is that it is a disease that disappears before college. In the business districts of Manhattan, most patients treated for acne vulgaris are women between the ages of 20 and 45. Young white collar professionals are often distraught about still getting acne and feel they are not taken seriously at work when they are breaking out. They should be reassured that acne can be a disease of those aged 20 to 45 and that effective acne treatments do exist.

*I can certainly attest to this! In my teenage years I didn't have much of a problem in high school, but, in my mid-20s I started to get acne that was not controlled with over the counter products.

MYTH 13 - ISOTRETINOIN SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR THE TREATMENT OF ACNE

2011-08-04T11:36:00.001-04:00

Isotretinoin 10mg

Isotretinoin is the only agent that has been shown to induce long-term remission, and it has curative potential for acne. The idea that it should not be available does not serve patients. Isotretinoin is not for every patient, but it has been used by 10 million patients in the U.S. with often amazing effect. iPledge and the litigation against Roche over the link of isotretinoin and inflammatory bowel disease aside, the concept that isotretinoin should not be used for acne may not fit the definition of a myth, but is due to misguided beliefs, in the opinion of the authors.

MYTH 12 - OTC TREATMENTS ARE EQUIVALENT TO PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS

2011-08-03T11:35:00.000-04:00

Proactiv is the number-one selling acne medication in the United States, but is not the most effective. Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is an excellent topical acne treatment, but it is not more effective than isotretinoin. If fact, studies of combination drugs utilizing BPO and clindmycin or adapalene all show superiority over BPO alone. Evidence-based clinical studies back prescription medications. Clearly, patients vote for Proactiv, but this dynamic is driven by hype, promotion, and, of course, the fact that BPO is an effective treatment for acne.

*I would like to add here, that I have found some over the counter products to be effective for some people. Everyone one is different and you will find that different treatments work for different people. If you're having problems with acne and have been using over the counter products that don't seem to be working anymore, then it's time to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to discuss whether or not prescription acne medication is an option for you.

Fiafini

2011-08-01T16:41:00.001-04:00

GeoTagged, [N36.08917, E115.17863]

Ladies with sensitive skin - be on the lookout for my review of Fiafini Skincare. A cleanser, moisturizer and eye cream especially for those of you who can't tolerate most products. Stay tuned....

Cosmoprof North America

2011-07-31T22:58:00.001-04:00

Hello readers! I'm in Las Vegas spending a few days with the ladies of EnV Consulting. There are a lot a great things here at the convention and I'm excited to share them with you. Stay tuned for updates on the latest!

MYTH 11 - ACNE MEDICATIONS WORK IMMEDIATELY

2011-07-26T11:17:00.001-04:00

By the time some patients (clients) develop the motivation to make the appointment and arrive at the office, they want immediate results. In one study, 66% of patients believed that acne would improve immediately after the first treatment. They need to know that medications may take up to 12 weeks to make a significant difference, and that acne can relapse as well. The average acne patient is used to a strip throat getting better with a few days of antibiotic treatment, whereas we know as clinicians that even the strongest medication like oral isotretinoin or minocycline can take months to significantly clear acne. But whatever patients (clients) may think, results will not be immediate.

Taken from "15 Acne Myths Addresses" June 2011 issue of Skin & Aging

MYTH 10 - IF A LITTLE ACNE MEDICATION IS GOOD, A LOT IS EVEN BETTER

2011-07-25T10:45:00.000-04:00

Topical acne medications should be used in the minimal amount, as they work on medial pathways, not by the law of mass action. Patients (clients) need to know that topical acne medications are not masks, they are medicine, and too much medication may cause over drying of skin, leading to irritation and more blemishes, which will lead patients to stop using medications altogether. So, make sure they understand that more is not better for topical treatment, that they should not use acne medications like sunscreen. Remind them that only a pea-sized amount is needed to cover a face.

MYTH 9 - PATIENTS WITH ACNE CANNOT USE COSMETICS

2011-07-24T10:54:00.000-04:00

While it's true that some types of cosmetics can make acne worse, those that are nonacnegenic or noncomedogenic generally do not worsen acne. Dermatologists can help patients decide if, whether, and when to use facial cosmetics. There are some concealers that contain benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol or salicylic acid, and there are also tinted acne treatment products. Patients who believe foundation may be contributing to their acne, can be encouraged to wear mineral-based makeup. So, let them know it's a myth that they must leave their acne lesions uncamouflaged; they simply need to know what is the most appropriate for them.

MYTH 8 - POPPING ACNE PIMPLES MAKES IT BETTER

2011-07-23T10:06:00.001-04:00

Myth 8 - Popping Acne Papules and Pustules (Pimples) Makes It Better

Acne is a follicular disease and picking at acne papules breaks the follicular unit spilling inflammatory mediators into the surrounding tissue, resulting in scarring. Patients (clients) should be encouraged not to pick at their faces. While discussing treatment at length is beyond the scope of this article, it should be noted that spot treatment of lesions with topical agents and injections of low-dose intralesional corticosteroids are far more optimal interventions than having patients pop their pimples. In fact, there is a distinct type of acne caused by picking that is well known to dermatologists as acne excoriee dejeune fille (translated a "picked pimples," although it literally means "the picked at acne of the young woman"). The myth of pimple popping as a treatment must be debunked again and again because of the urge patients have to address acne in the inappropriate fashion. However, comedones can be extracted by a well-trained health professional with some benefit, and in fact is recommended by Dr. Danby in his Helpful Handouts column on acne in the May issue of Skin & Aging.

MYTH 7 - TANNING CLEARS ACNE

2011-07-22T06:00:00.001-04:00

One of the worst of all myths....Tanning Clears Acne

While some light therapies and lasers help treat acne and tanning can mask it, ultraviolet radiation dries out the skin and induces premature skin aging and can worsen acne. Some think that porphryins associated with P.acnes can be targeted with light therapy. This may be the case, but make the point to your patients (clients) that any benefit to acne from tanning is outweighed by its role in the induction of premature aging and the promotion of skin cancer.

OTC Products That I Like

2011-07-21T23:42:00.001-04:00

We all know that skin care products can get pretty pricey. Well, here's an over the counter product that I've personally tried and I have to say, is pretty decent for the price.

It's Garnier Nutritioniste Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream. It's a lovely light weight moisturizer for normal to oily skin. I have oily skin and I use it during the day under my sunscreen with no oily feel or shine thru.

...an over the counter product that doesn't suck...;)

Got a Bruise?

2011-07-21T14:30:00.001-04:00

GeoTagged, [N34.05590, E118.25440]

If you anything like me, constantly running in circles, you've probably run into the coffee table or the corner of the counter top and given yourself one heck of a bruise...or maybe you had a killer workout at the gym and now you're sore in places you didn't know you had muscles... Try rubbing a little arnica gel on those bad boys! Arnica gel is a healing and soothing homeopathic remedy for the relief of bruising, sore muscles and stiffness. Arnica is a topical treatment so it shouldn't be used on broken skin and if you're pregnant or breastfeeding you should check with your doc first.

MYTH 6 - ACNE GOES AWAY ON ITS OWN AND DOES NOT NEED TO BE TREATED

2011-07-21T09:01:00.000-04:00

Acne is a condition that can last for years. If left alone without even attempts at topical treatment, it can worsen and scar. Treatment - even with mild over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide - helps and should not be avoided simply because someday the acne will go away. Acne is treatable and early intervention, which can be mild and topical, matters.

Myth #5

2011-07-12T07:57:00.000-04:00

MYTH 5 - THE MORE YOU WASH YOUR FACE, THE LESS ACNE YOU'LL HAVE

If acne is not caused by dirt, it stands to reason that acne cannot be simply washed away. The makers of abrasive acne scrubs would have patients/clients believe that a harsh wash is a treatment for acne, a concept that is not supported by studies. A study that compared an abrasive cleanser with the same cleansing agent without the abrasive granules for acne found the two treatments equal in effect. Of course, this is not to suggest to patients/clients that washes cannot help acne, as those with ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicyclic acid and sulfur compounds can help to abate acne, most specifically on the face. The key washing myths to debunk are (1) that plains soap and water improve acne; (2) that abrasive cleansers help acne; (3) that constant washing - even using the right products - helps decrease acne. In fact, irritation from the interaction between harsh cleansers and topical retinoids may decrease compliance.

Acne Myth #4

2011-07-12T07:35:00.000-04:00

MYTH 4 - ACNE IS CAUSED BY DIRT

Patients/clients need to understand that acne is a complex disease of follicular units unrelated to dirt. The bacteria responsible for inflamed acne breakouts are Propionibacteria acne (P. acnes). Blackheads are not due to dirt, but rather to pathology of follicles and buildup and alteration of sebum, ie, pilosebaceous ductal hypercornification. Patients/clients should be taught that blackheads are open comedones that are due to the oxidation of sebum, and that scrubbing may inflame them. Open comedones can be removed by acne surgery and prevented with topical retinoids, but dirt plays no role in acne, which leads us to consider the fifth myth...The More You Wash Your Face, The Less Acne You'll Have.

Acne Myth #3

2011-07-07T16:15:00.000-04:00

As promised, I continue to share 15 Acne Myths found in the June 2011 issue of Skin & Aging Practical and Clinical Issued for Today's Dermatologist.

Myth 3 - Sex and Masturbation Cause Acne

The theory that sex or masturbation cause acne is not based on scientific evidence. It seems likely that this theory, which may have originated as early as the 17th century, was designed to dissuade young people from having premarital sex. Patients or clients who believe this should be told that neither sex nor masturbation cause acne, not is the degree of acne proportionate to sexual activity. However, the debates between parents and their children over sex should not obscure the fact that acne is at least in part a disease of hormones and those in the process of undergoing sexual maturation. This provides an etiologic basis for understanding acne and a foundation for some acne treatments such as oral contraceptives/hormonal therapy.

Acne Myth 2

2011-07-05T11:52:00.000-04:00

Myth #2 - Sweating Helps Clear Acne

Some people believe that going to a steam room or using hot towels will improve their acne. There is no basis for this myth. In fact, some studies have suggested that sweating makes acne worse due to increased temperature, marked humidity and sweating. In any case, you should know that you can not sweat out your acne and those of you who do these types of things should consider the lack of data for this course of action.

15 Acne Myths Addressed

2011-06-29T08:46:00.000-04:00

Dispelling myths about the causes and treatment of acne can make all the difference. The following is the first of 15 common acne myths that I'll post over the coming days. They are taken from the article of the same name in the June 2011 issue of Skin & Aging Practical and Clinical Issues for Today's Dermatologist.

MYTH 1 - ACNE IS A COSMETIC CONDITION

More than 50% of those suffering with acne problems report negative comments and other feedback from members of society, regardless of whether or no the acne resulted in scarring. Depression is more common in acne patients than in those without acne. Acne can be devastating and life-altering, resulting in clinical depressions and low self-esteem. It should be noted that the degree of depression does not always correlate with the physician's global assessment or clinical severity. Physicians would be wise no to assume an otherwise minor case of acne is no distressing to the patient. Studies show that patients and parents of of patients underestimate the psychological impact of acne. Acne is a disease that requires medical treatment. Those who say it is only a cosmetic concern perpetuate a myth that is false and pernicious.

Should I throw it away??

2011-06-14T18:42:00.000-04:00

Ever wonder if you should throw away that jar of moisturizer that's been hanging around? How long should you hang on to that bottle of cleanser? What about that tube of sunscreen - has it been in the drawer for too long?

Here are a few simple guidelines for you to follow when your cleaning out the skin care drawer. The time frame is for products that have been opened.

Jars - toss after 3 months
Bottles - toss after 6 months
Tubes - toss after 6 months
Airless pumps - toss after 6 months

When purchasing products, if you have an option, glass containers better than plastic.

What's that Smell?

2011-06-01T09:40:00.000-04:00

Ahhh, a day at the beach. Who doesn't enjoy a day having fun in the sun?! Even notice that funny smell coming from your skin after a day in the sun? That smell is the oils in your skin - it's now rancid from the oxidation that took place from being in the sun all day....

Just wanted you to know....

Spa Review: The Spa at Torrey Pines

2011-05-31T00:15:00.000-04:00

The Golf Course at Torrey Pines

As I wrap up California trip, I managed to visit another beautiful spa in La Jolla, California. The Spa at Torrey Pines is located in The Lodge at Torrey Pines. The Lodge is just grand and is sits next to the famous Torrey Pines golf course and Torrey Pines Reserve.

This visit I scheduled a 50 minute Aromatherapy Massage. All the massages are available for 50 or 80 minutes. I opted for the Aromatherapy because I simply wanted to relax...chill out. That's exactly what I did. My therapist, Raphael, started by explaining the choices I had for the "aromas". He went over each but quickly stated that, instead of choosing for what I thought I needed, he thought it was best to smell each and let your senses choose what you needed. Apparently, I needed at little refreshing as "Refresh" was the scent that most appealed to me.

He left the room so he could warm the oil and I could get comfortable on the table. The table was heated and a blanket was provided along with the normal sheet draping. I personally like the weight of a blanket. We started face down and after checking in with me about my comfort level with the temperature of the room and the pressure he was using, he went to work. I can't say I recall much after that - and that's a good thing when you're just trying to relax. He did point out a few areas where I had knots and suggested some optional therapy. Other then that, he kept a rhythm going that tells me that he's been doing this type of massage for some time and has developed a pattern that he sticks with and it works.

The facility itself is well appointed - sauna, steam room, inhalation room. The showers are very private and you have plenty of fluffy towels. The locker area is clean and quiet and they also have a few private changing rooms for those who are a little shy.

Overall, it was a very relaxing treatment - exactly what I was expecting. If you find yourself in the neighborhood, you should take the time to check out The Spa at Torrey Pines. The Lodge is wonderful as well - enjoy a glass of wine in front of the fireplace - their are several to choose from.

Got to run to a flight...my apologizes for any typos!! Tata!

SPA Review: sea wellness spa - Casa Del Mar

2011-05-24T20:49:00.000-04:00

Casa Del Mar, Santa Monica, CA

It's time for spa review #2! This time I'm hanging at the lovely Casa Del Mar in Santa Monica, California. After riding bikes on the beach all morning it was time for a little spa break.

The Mr. was "Feeling Knotty" so he took advance of the massage special that the hotel advertised by a neat little post-it style note on the bathroom mirror the said - Feeling Knotty?? Get those knots out. Get a 90 min. massage pay for 60 min. So, he did...and when we met in the relaxation room after our treatments, he had, what I like to call, massage face. He's still in a zone as I sit here typing...

I scheduled myself the The Fountain of Youth 90 minute facial treatment. It is supposed to erase the effects of daily stress and environmental aging with a powerful vitamin C Anita-aging formula by SkinCeuticals. Well, I just love SkinCeuticals so sing me up! My therapist, Jennifer, was on time and she escorted me to the treatment room which smelled like lavender - my favorite - so far, so good. After asking about allergies, etc. (all estheticians should cover this prior to a treatment), she told me about a new facial that is not on the spa menu yet - The Diamond Facial using Natura Bisse products from Barcelona, Spain. It was only $10 more that the treatment that I originally scheduled and it included a glycolic treatment. Things just keep getting better!

Jennifer was very good about letting me know what she was doing and what to expect as she did the glycolic treatment. She told me it was a 50% solution, which is a decent strength to get at a spa and I was a little concerned about being red after the treatment and/or being flaky, as you can sometimes be, a few days after the treatment. She assured me that I would have any flaking and the only redness that should be expected would be a flushed appearance post-treatment. The glycolic stung a bit, as expected, for just a short period of time. During the time the solution was on my face, I got a nice hand and arm massage.

After the glycolic portion of the treatment, it was all masks and massage. When I train new and student estheticians I always remind them to focus on their massage skills if they are going into the spa arena. Those massage skills are just as important as knowing the skin because high-end spa clientele not only what their skin to look great, but they are expecting a little relaxation. Well, kudos to Jennifer! She knows her massage!

90 minutes later I left the treatment room and retreated to the relaxation room in my own little zone, minus a few fine line around my eyes!

I would definitely recommend the spa and The Diamond Facial. If you can request Jennifer, you will certainly not be disappointed! Check out the website by clicking sea wellness spa - Casa Del Mar

P.S. The hotel is fantastic - treat yourself :)

UCLA

2011-05-23T12:02:00.002-04:00

GeoTagged, [N34.05590, E118.25440]

Hello Readers! Today is day 4 of my cosmetic chemistry class at UCLA. Be sure to check back for tips and interesting info that I'll be sharing. Until then, here's you first tip:

Are you blonde? Does your hair turn green after being in the pool? Find a shampoo the contains EDTA - you'll need to check the ingredient list - it will "neutralize" the chlorine in your hair.

Spa Review: The Ritz - Key Biscayne

2011-05-18T18:20:00.000-04:00

I've been doing a lot of traveling lately and have the opportunity to visit some wonderful spas. This is the first, in what I hope will be a regular "review" of my spa experiences. I like to try different treatments instead of always getting a facial or massage, so you'll get to read about some treatments that you have never had and may, or may not, decide to get one yourself one day. No, I'm not getting paid to this, so, you're going to get the real deal! If it wasn't up to snuff, you'll hear about it here. I pay full price for my treatments. I don't tell them that I'm going to blog about them. I don't even tell them that I'm an aesthetician! Soooo, let's chat about the spa at The Ritz - Key Biscayne.....

The Treatments - Back Facial, Classic Mani-Pedi

I spent most of the day at the spa, going to the gym to work out first, then an hour or so at the pool before I went in for my appointments. They really have a nice facility and the locker rooms are clean and have everything you could need - showers, fully stocked vanity, sauna, hot tub, etc. It was nice enough that I felt comfortable showering there before my treatments instead of running back up to my room.

The treatment room was big enough to not feel cramped and had nice lighting and music. Let me say, if you own or manage a spa and offer a back facial you really should invest in a table the has the option of having a face cradle. There is nothing more uncomfortable then twisting your head to one side or the other for 50 minutes. Take the time to train your therapists on how to use bolsters under the ankles as well. Being comfortable during a treatment is essential and I still have a kink in my neck. My therapist did a fine job and followed all the steps that any back facial would have - cleanse, exfoliate, extract (take it easy here therapists, it hurst just as much on the back as it does on the face), massage, mask. She could have use a little more relaxing technique with the massage and it would have earned her a larger tip, but, she did what the protocol called for.

If your an esthetician and reading this - I beg you, take the time to really work on your massage skills. Yes, your clients want to have fabulous skin, but your massage skills will earn you a bigger tip and a better reputation.

I'm not going to go into detail about manicures and pedicures since I'll not a nail tech, but since I am reviewing the spa.... The nail tech did a fabulous job - the salon area of the spa was clean and neat. She was very professional and I really enjoyed my mani/pedi. Oh - and she did a great foot massage!

I would definitely visit this spa again, but would pass on the back facial and wait to go somewhere with an appropriate table. I would also hope for a different therapist that had a better touch.

COMING SOON!!!

2011-05-03T16:23:00.000-04:00

Melanoma Impacts Women More

2011-05-03T16:21:00.000-04:00

Women are more likely than men to feel their quality of life has been affected by melanoma, even up to a decade after diagnosis, according to a study published in the February issued of Archives of Dermatology. researchers with Erasmus Medical center, Rotterdam, Netherlands, conducted a survey of 560 patients who had been diagnosed with melanoma between 1998 and 2007. Sixty-seven percent of women respondents said they had adjusted behaviors to avoid sun exposure, compared with 54 percent of the men.

Source: MedPage Today

PDT for Acne

2011-04-25T14:42:00.000-04:00

The following highlights are taken from the article "Photodynamic therapy for acne a work in progress" from the 03.2011 issues of Dermatology World. Click here for more info www.aad.org

One of several light-based technologies under investigation for the treatment of acne vulgaris, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has shown impressive long-term results that may approach those achieved by isotretinoin. PDT is approved by the FDA only for the treatment of actinic keratosis.

"I feel there's increasing interest in PDT right now because it's getting more difficult to prescribe isotretinoin, and clinicians need an alternative for those patients who don't respond to conventional treatment," says Fernanda H. Sakamoto, MD, instructor in dermatology at Harvard Medical School and a researcher at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine, referring to the hurdles the iPledge program creates for patients and isotretinoin's side effects, which may give patients pause.

Noting that bright visible light can moderately improve acne, Drs. Sakamoto, Lopes, and Anderson say it appears that "naturally occurring porphyrins within sebaceous follicles act as endogenous photosensitizers to visible light." Intense blue light is an FDA-approved treatment for acne, but the authors state that all light-alone treatments have only temporary effects and seem to be effective only against mild to moderate acne.

Clinicians offering PDT to their patients must consider various light sources and wavelengths, light dosimetry, drug incubation time, and skin preparation. Most clinicians who are treating acne with PDT are using low-dose methods in an effort to make the treatment more easily tolerated and less time-consuming.

The most common side effects of PDT for acne are moderate to severe pain, erythema typically lasting 3 to 5 days, edema usually occurring 1 to 4 days after treatment, and hyperpigmentation which can persist up to 4 weeks after a treatment.

Experts agree the PDT may still have a place in the treatment armamentarium. "The role of PDT is a little dicey, but the believe dermatologists should discuss it with patients as a treatment option," says Dr. Choudhary. "There are many people who can't take isotretinoin, so PDT seems to be a great alternative treatment," says Dr. Sakamoto. It's a trade-off. The way PDT is best performed today, in a high-dose modality, it's not easy on the patient. But in the end, they're very happy with the results."

Diet Killers!!

2011-04-13T15:01:00.000-04:00

Big thanks to my trainer:

Carin E Brochu
NASM Certified Personal Trainer
Allied School of Health Certified Nutrition Specialist
NASM certified in Prenatal and Weight Management Training

for the reminder that not everything that you think is healthy, actually is!

Click above or here to check out these diet killers!

Dimethyl Fumarate Named Allergen of the Year

2011-04-12T12:53:00.000-04:00

Well folks, here it is....Allergen of the Year! Demethyl Fumarate! You can click on the link above to read the full article from the March 2011 issue of Skin and Allergy News.

Dimethyl fumarate is a substance that is used in shipping to inhibit the growth of mold - specifically, shipments or furniture, clothing and shoes. "The substance caused an epidemic in Europe starting in 2007." The substance is now being regulated in Europe, "although apparently some stuff is still sneaking through," Dr. Donald V. Belsito said. Dimethyl fumarate "produces an extremely severe dermatitis."

Severe cases of dermatitis began appearing in Sweden and the UK. The severe rash was predominantly on the backs of the legs, buttocks and back. The common link with each patient - the had each recently purchased furniture from a particular Chinese manufacturer. It then became commonly called "sofa dermatitis."

Dimethyl fumarate is so volatile it can vaporize within 6 weeks. The vapors cause the dermatitis - sometimes spread out and sometimes patch - after permeating the sofas, clothing, and shoe products during shipment.

Neomycin was the 2010 Allergen of the Year. Neomycin was chosen because of its widespread use as an over-the-counter antibiotic product. Gold was the 2001 Allergen of the Year. Reactions to gold are common and clinically problematic. Bacitracin (2003) is another common allergen.

Don't forget, click on the title above to go to the full article in Skin & Allergy News Vol. 42, No. 3 March 2011 or click Skin & Allergy News

California Dreamin'

2011-03-31T13:53:00.001-04:00

Hello friendly blog readers! I'm on my way to Cali to check out what should be some fabulous spas! My first stop is the Montage in Beverly Hills!

Be sure to check back an I'll update you on the details!

Now, if the weather would just clear up so my flight can get off the ground...

Ritz Carlton - Naples, FL

2011-03-10T14:13:00.001-05:00

I'm blogging to you from my pedicure chair - don't you just love technology! I'm at the fabulous Ritz Carlton in Naples, Florida. The place is just stunning! Three floors where you can indulge in every and any treatment you can imagine. So why am I opting for mani an pedi? Well, because I need it desperately....and I just love a good foot rub!

If you find yourself in Naples you should treat yourself!

Hello All

2011-03-10T14:07:00.001-05:00

I've been out of touch for a while, but I'm spending the weekend at the AAD conference and will be back with some exciting stuff!

Are You Getting Your Vitamin C?

2011-02-26T14:15:00.000-05:00

*Among other vitamins tested in topical form for anti-photoaging efficacy, vitamin C plays a critical role in collagen and elastin synthesis and also acts as an antioxidant in the skin, modulating the effects of UV-induced reactive oxygen species damage. The JAAD review article describes a clinical trial with 19 subjects comparing daily L-ascorbic acid treatment on one side of the face to vehicle treatment on the other side for three months. Using fine wrinkling, tactile roughness, visual dryness, telangiectasia, laxity/tone, pigmentation, and keratoses as the criteria, investigators and the subjects themselves noted improvement on the treatment half of the face in 16 of the 19 subjects.

*Tretinoin, tea, and tomato paste - Dermatology World//February 2011

My personal favorite is SkinCeuticals vitamin C formulations!

Cell Phones Cause Winkles

2011-02-25T10:37:00.000-05:00

Are you constantly using you smartphone to check your email...your facebook...to play words with friends? You may be getting more than you asked for. Click on the title/link above to check out this article by Dr Jean-Louis Sebagh.

R&D

2011-02-18T08:34:00.000-05:00

I'm off the the Big Apple this weekend and will be checking out yet another spa! A facial at the famed Mario Badescu is on the schedule! I'll just love this product line - especially the Whitening Mask! Be sure to check back to read about it....

Road to Healthy Skin Tour

2011-02-18T08:30:00.000-05:00

The Skin Cancer Foundation is pleased to announce its 2011 Road to Healthy Skin Tour. Launching in March, the fourth annual tour will once again provide free skin cancer screenings and valuable information about early detection to thousands of people around the country. Over the past 3 years, 300 dermatologists have volunteered for the tour, collectively examining more than 10,000 patients in the fully-equipped, customized RV. It has been a truly rewarding mission for everyone involved, and they have every hope that the 2011 Tour will enjoy even greater success!

Click the lick about for all the details and to see the the Tour will be in your town!

Botox vs. Food?

2010-11-11T06:50:00.000-05:00

I saw this interesting fact in the Aesthetic Dermatology News:

Plastic surgeons in Australia report that while the credit crunch is forcing some consumers to cut back on spending on items like food and drink, they are still finding money to spend on Botox. Botox treatments in the country rose by about 20 percent in the past year, according to the surgeons.

Fast Fact

2010-11-05T14:38:00.000-04:00

Did you know that Bob Marley died from Melanoma? You should see your dermatologist every year, regardless of the color of your skin.

"Whatnot"

2010-10-30T14:21:00.000-04:00

Under the "Whatnot" category....check out this fun Halloween Witch Make-up! I'm doing this tonight for the big masquerade ball! MissChievous has some great tutorials if you're feeling adventurous with the make-up! Just remember to wash it all off at the end of the night :) Have a safe, fun and Happy Halloween!

Sun Protection and Makeup

2010-10-29T10:29:00.000-04:00

Another great article from The Skin Cancer Foundation! See ladies, putting on your makeup does more that just make you look glamorous!

Does Sunscreen Expire?

2010-10-28T19:03:00.000-04:00

Check out this great article at the Skin Cancer Foundation website about how long you should keep your sunscreen. In this "Ask the Expert" column, Dr. Karen Burke has the answer to that very question!

Out & About Sans Makeup

2010-10-23T11:55:00.001-04:00

It's a rare day that I'm out without any makeup, but today is that day. I've got my antioxidant and SPF60 - I never leave home without it!

If you've always wanted to feel comfortable enough in your own skin to go without your foundation, make an appointment with a reputable esthetician and get on the road to your healthiest skin!

Peace, Love & SPF

Give Yourself a Hand

2010-10-22T07:28:00.000-04:00

If your hands have visible damage, many signs of aging can be reversed with lasers and chemical peels that remove the skin's top layer to reveal less damaged tissue beneath.

Did you forget?

2010-10-18T21:49:00.000-04:00

Don't even think about it....go wash your face before you crawl into bed!

Please Wear Your SPF!

2010-10-06T11:00:00.001-04:00

It's not even the lunch hour here at the office and I've already seen 3 skin cancers - 2 of them on the face...please remember to wear your sunscreen every day!

Go Now!

2010-10-06T10:57:00.003-04:00

The best time of year for identifying suspect skin lesions is in the fall, when the skin is no longer tan. Schedule your skin exam today!

Fast Fact

2010-10-06T10:57:00.001-04:00

Did you know that your skin loses approximately 30,000 to 40,000 dead skin cells from the surface almost every minute, even though you don't see it happening!

Now's the Time

2010-09-28T10:02:00.000-04:00

The best time of year for identifying suspect skin lesions is in the fall, when the skin is no longer tanned.
Schedule your skin exam today!

Water & Your Skin

2010-09-25T10:11:00.000-04:00

You simply can not drink enough water to hydrate your skin. I've been telling my clients this for years. Click the link above to read more about it!

SPF Info

2010-09-16T10:33:00.000-04:00

An SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB radiation, while SPF 30 blocks nearly 97%. SPF 50 blocks approximately 98%. Above 50, the increase in UVB protection is minimal. Higher SPF values offer some increased safety, generally because people do not apply enough sunscreen. To determine SPF, 2 milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin is used. In reality, most people only use 0.5 to 1 milligram per square centimeter of skin, so, the actual SPF they are receiving is about 1/3 of the labeled value.

SPF's mainly measure UVB protection, so be sure to choose a sunscreen that included UVA protection! UVA rays not only accelerate skin aging, but contributes to skin cancers.

Safe Waxing

2010-09-16T08:41:00.000-04:00

If you go to your waxing appointment and your "waxer" double dips, waxes without gloves or doesn't store tweezers and scissors in some sort of antibacterial device...head for the door!

Wax is NOT hot enough to kill bacteria! The temperature needed to kill bacteria is 212 degrees F for 30 minutes. Wax at that temp would burn your skin!

Sun-Day Drive

2010-09-01T15:21:00.001-04:00

New research shows that years of driving may be the reason that more skin cancers develop on the left side of the face than the right.

The best thing you can do is wear a broad spectrum sunscreen everyday even if you don't expect to be outside. Getting your car windows tinted or getting a UV-filtering film applied is another good option. Standard car windows block UVB but let in 63% of UVA.

It Finally Happened

2010-06-25T21:57:00.000-04:00

Well, after working in the business for 10 years, it's happened. I found a skin cancer on myself. Yep. All those years of unprotected sun exposure and tanning bed use before I knew better, have caught up with me. Most of our sun damage occurs earlier in life and you don't see the results until later. In my case, it was a mole that I had been keeping an eye on and it was changing and showing some of the A, B, C, D's - asymmetrical, irregular borders, color variation and the diameter was getting larger. Working for a dermatologist, I asked one of the physician assistants to biopsy it for me. If you've never had a skin biopsy, it's a very simple procedure that is really just a little scrape of the top layers of skin that get sent to a lab for pathology. Don't let the fear of a biopsy keep you from getting something checked!

Well, my biopsy came back as what is called a dysplastic nevus or an atypical melanocytic neoplasm. These types of lesions are considered pre-cancerous and there is a chance of them progressing into melanoma. Having a family history of melanoma, it was best to have mine completely removed as opposed to observing it for further changes.

My surgery was yesterday and today, I'm a bit uncomfortable, but, all in all I can't complain too much. My stitches will come out in 7-10 days and if I take it easy and follow the appropriate home care instructions for my surgery site, the scarring should be minimal. I'm thankful that I was discovered before it progressed into anything more serious.

Let this be a lesson to you all to not only wear your sunscreen on not go to indoor tanning facilities, but, remember to do self exams and visit a dermatologist on a yearly basis for a skin exam.

Consumer Reports Tests Sunscreens

2010-06-15T13:50:00.000-04:00

Consumer Reports recently tested 12 sunscreen products and found four that protect a shade better than the rest. Up & Up Sport Continuous SPF 30 (Target), a Consumer Reports Best Buy, Walgreens Sport Continuous SPF 50, Banana Boat Sport Performance Continuous SPF 30, and Aveeno Continuous Protection SPF 50. According to Consumer Reports, these products provided very good ultraviolet A radiation protection and excellent ultraviolet B protection and they met their SPF claim even after treated skin was soaked in water for 80 minutes.

Dr. Hauschka Lip care Stick

2010-06-14T14:15:00.001-04:00

If you're a lover of the Dr. Hauschka Lip Care Stick, log on to their site tomorrow from 12:00 to 4:00 and buy two and get one free!

Enjoy the Weekend

2010-06-12T10:05:00.000-04:00

Get out there and enjoy the beautiful weekend - but don't forget your sunscreen! My new favorite is SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF50! Mattifying fluid with a transparent finish, zinc and titanium broad spectrum coverage, non-comedogenic and good for all skin types even the most sensitive!

Fast Fact

2010-06-08T21:53:00.000-04:00

A family of 4 should use an entire 6 oz bottle of sunscreen for a day at the beach if everyone applies twice. That's right! About a shot glass full for full body coverage and reapply every two hours or after swimming.

Not going to the beach? A teaspoon full for face and neck!

I LOVE this Look!

2010-06-07T19:13:00.000-04:00

I know, I know...this post isn't about skin care, but, I just love this make-up look! PS - Aromaleigh Mineral Make-up is awesome - and good for your skin, too. Just click the link above to check out the look.

Protect your Peepers!

2010-06-05T14:40:00.000-04:00

I know I'm always going on about wearing your sunscreen - and you should! But lets not forget about protecting your eyes and the delicate skin around them. Wearing sunglasses not only shades your eyes bring the bright light, but, protects the skin around the eyes from the damaging UV rays. Wearing sunglasses also keeps you from squinting which can lead to crows feet and those nasty little "11" lines between you eyebrows. So slather on some sunscreen and grab your biggest, darkest pair of shades and enjoy the weekend!

Sun Safety Expo!

2010-05-23T11:17:00.000-04:00

On June 2nd in New York City, the Skin Cancer Foundation will host it's first ever Sun Safety Expo. Admission is free, so why not go!

Pass It On

2010-05-23T11:14:00.000-04:00

Click the link above and watch the video - each time you do, $1 will be donated to the Skin Cancer Foundation! Pass it On!

TYPES OF SKIN CANCER

2010-05-20T19:47:00.002-04:00

Basal cell carcinoma: Most common, least dangerous. May look like a reddish patch, shiny bump or sore that won't heal.

Squamous cell carcinoma:Second most common, occasionally fatal. Often starts as a rough, scaly growth.

Melanoma: Least common, most dangerous. Often arises from moles.

Tanning Ban

2010-05-20T19:34:00.000-04:00

In November 2009, the Board of Health in Howard County, Md., became the first county in the nation to enact a tanning ban. No one under 18 years old may use tanning devices in the county unless they have a prescription from a physician indicating the nature of the medical condition requiring treatment, the number of visits allowed and the time of exposure for each visit. Tanning facilities must also check photo ID to ensure that a customer is not a minor.

Fast Fact

2010-05-20T19:32:00.000-04:00

Melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer when it's not recognized and treated early, is now the second most common form of cancer among 15- to 29-year-olds, says the AADA

Melanoma Facts

2010-05-06T15:40:00.000-04:00

1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in life. At least 90% of these cancers result from exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun.

Melanoma accounts for only 4% of all skin cancers, but is responsible for 74% of the deaths from skin cancer.

Don't become part of these statistics!

Cosmetic Eye Whitening

2010-04-21T17:40:00.000-04:00

Yep, you read that right - cosmetic eye whitening. Sounds kind-a freaky doesn't it....

People with chronic red or discolored eyes now have a surgical option. A new cosmetic eye whitening procedure, which surgically removes the outer membrance (conjunctiva) that covers the white part of the eye and contains blood vessels, has emerged.

Dr. Boxer Wachler, the developer of the technique, calls it I-Brite. It takes approximately 20 minutes, is painless (using numbing drops) and results are permanent. The conjunctiva is removed and over the following two weeks, a clear membrane naturally grows back in its place. Once the tissue is removed, it doesn't grow back with blood vessels.

Hmmmm....for more detailed info click the link above or go to www.miinews.com and look for The Aesthetic Guide March/April 2010 issue.

April is Stress Awareness Month

2010-04-20T10:40:00.001-04:00

Stress awareness month, heh.... I definitely had my fill of stress this month! I recently read an article about how to feel better when you're stressed and thought I would share some of the tips:

1. Calm Down: Before anything else, calm yourself down. Do not panic. Close your eyes and take a deep breath.

2. Feed Your Mind with Positive Thoughts: it's easy to fall into a vicious cycle of negative thoughts - break the cycle. Feed your mind with positive thoughts - read spiritual texts, motivational books or inspiring quotes.

3. Remember Good Things: remember the good things in your life, remember the good people around you.

4. Look at the Big Picture: put the stressful event in context.

5. Believe that Everything will be OK: what you believe has a big effect on you - if you think things will go wrong, they just might. On the other hand, if you think things will be OK, they just might.

6. Exercise: exercise relieves the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

7. Forgive: Forgive yourself or someone else.

8. Take Action: Things won't get better if you do nothing.

9. Say Something Positive: Whenever you are about to say something negative, stop yourself and take a deep breath and make it positive.

10. Think About Other People: Take the focus away from yourself. Think about other people and how you can help them.

(Thanks to Dermascope for including that in the April 2010 issue.)

Melanoma Awareness Month

2010-04-20T09:39:00.000-04:00

May is Melanoma Awareness Month. If you don't already (and you should) why not make it a point to apply you sunscreen each and every morning. By the end of the month, you will have developed a fantastic new habit that can not only help to prevent skin cancer, but, it one of the best anti-aging things you can do for your skin!

whatnot

2010-04-05T14:02:00.001-04:00

The household aloe plant is a different species than the aloe barbadensis that is used in skin care products. Unprocessed aloe contains irritating substances, such as anthroquinones, which could do more harm than good.

THANKS PIP!

2010-04-05T08:19:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to post a big thank you to my dear friend Pippi for the lovely new look of my blog!

don't forget about your hands!

2010-04-05T08:13:00.000-04:00

When you think about taking care of your hands most people think about washing and moisturizing. Hands have a tendency to get dry easily because the skin is thin and doesn't have many oil glands. If you wash your hand a lot, that only makes it worse.

The next time you reach for a hand cream, reach for one the has an SPF of 15 or higher. Remember, you'll need to reapply as often as you wash your hands!

Testing!

2010-03-27T21:57:00.001-04:00

Just testing my new app so I cam blog skin facts on the go!

Tanning Tax

2010-03-27T09:39:00.000-04:00

The House of Representatives has approved a 10% excise tax on the use of indoor tanning beds. With more than 3.5 million estimated cases each year, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US. There is research that proves the link between skin cancer and the UV rays associated with indoor tanning.

First exposure to tanning beds in youth increases melanoma risk by 75%!!

People who use tanning beds are 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma - and 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma!!

Read the complete article on the Skin Cancer Foundation website by clicking the link above.

Enjoy the weekend and don't forget your SPF!!

Fast Fact - Skin Cancer

2010-03-20T10:10:00.000-04:00

More than 62,000 people develop melanoma in the United States and 8,400 die annually from it. More than 1,000,000 people a year develop non-melanoma skin cancers - basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma (BCC and SCC). Both can cause significant damage and disfigurement.

Fast Fact

2010-03-19T09:14:00.003-04:00

Laser hair removal is now the number one most requested treatment by consumers seeking services from aestheticians, beating out chemical peels, microdermabrastion, and other traditional aesthetic treatments. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, over 1.3 million laser hair removal treatments were performed in 2008, a number that is projected to greatly increase in the coming years.

Fast Fact

2010-01-21T11:37:00.002-05:00

Did you know that IPL and Laser hair removal only works on hair that is in the growth stage? That's right. If your hair is not actively growing, the light energy will not destroy the follicle. This is why IPL and laser hair removal treatments are done in a series.

60 days behind me

2010-01-20T20:07:00.003-05:00

Well, today is day 61 of my "accutane' (Claravis) therapy and I must say that so far, things have gone well. My skin continues to improve and I have not yet had to deal with any negative issues other than the chapped lips and some mild joint pain that seems to be under control with the addition of glucosasmine. I have also added biotin to my routine to hopefully avoid any problems with my hair. My last round of blood tests were, well....excellent. I credit most of that to my vegetarian diet which is naturally low in fat.

Month three will state with an increase in my daily dose from 40mg to 60mg. Although I expect to see some increase in dryness, I'm hopeful that will be the worst of it and I'll continue to see improvements in my skin with little sign of any additional side effects.

As far as my daily skin care routine is concerned, I have made a few changes to help address the new dryness. I have switched from SkinCeuticals Simply Clean gel cleanser to SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser - no toner. In the morning I continue to use my SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF antioxidant, followed by SkinCeuticals Phyo Corrective Gel to help calm some of the redness and last, but certainly not least, SkinCeuticals Ultimate UV Defense SPF 15. At night I use the same Gentle Cleanser, SkinCeuticals Eye Cream (I do that in the morning, too) and EpiDermal Repair Cream. The Repair Cream was formulated for post-laser treatment to help reduce redness and assist in the healing process. I really credit this product with preventing the redness and irritation that accutane patients can deal with.

As usual, if you have any questions about my therapy or skin care in general, feel free to ask away. You can also check out SkinCeuticals and all the products they offer at www.SkinCeuticals.com

Day 25

2009-12-12T17:45:00.002-05:00

Well, it's day 25 and not much new on the Accutane front. I got some Biotin today today because it's supposed to help with my hair since one of the possible side affects is hair loss and I don't want that to happen. It's only a 10% chance, but, I'm not risking it! I got some vitamins at my salon today, but, after further research into the ingredients, they contain a form of vitamin A, so, I can't take them while on the Rx. Bummer....because they are supposed to work great. I'll just hold on to them until I'm off medicine and then take them.

My skin continues to improve, although, I got one new cyst today - a painful one at that - so I'm hoping it will resolve quickly. The dryness get a little worse everyday so I've been experimenting with different moisturizers and cleansers. I'm still able to use my Clarisonic and it does make my skin feel smoother and get rid of the flakes.

My lips and more chapped and I have decided that any waxed based chap sticks are not for me. Vaseline and Vaseline Lip Therapy are working best for me, so, I stocked up today!

I've been taking the glucosamine and the joint pain is decreasing, so, that's a plus.

Until next time.....

"Accutane"

2009-12-06T19:52:00.003-05:00

Have you ever wondered what it is like to go through Isotretinoin (Accutane) therapy for acne? Well, you're about to get a regular update on what it's all about. I have recently started this therapy for antibiotic resistant acne and thought that sharing my experiences on this medication could help someone decide if this therapy is right for them. While this treatment is definitely a last resort (it took over 6 months of trying other treatments with no success) it is the closest thing to a cure for nodular/cystic acne that there is.

If you have cystic acne and are wondering about Isotretinoin (aka, Accutane, Amnesteem, Sotret, Claravis), have a frank discussion with your dermatologist about it's risks (and there are risks) and benefits. You will be required to participate in the iPledge program and ladies, you'll have some extra hoops to jump through in regards to birth control while on the medication.

Well, today is day 19 of my treatment and I am already seeing an improvement in my skin. The number, frequency and severity of the cysts has decreased significantly. Some of the more common side effects that I am experiencing are chapped lips and dry eyes, so, I always have chap-stick and eye-drops on hand. In general, my normally oily skin is getting drier and I have had to switch from my regular serum based moisturizer to a night cream for sensitive skin. I am trying to increase the amount of water that I drink as the doctor says it's the thing to do. The most annoying side effect that I am experiencing is some lower back pain. Joint pain is a side effect of the medication. Exercise seems to help it and I'm taking Glucosamine to see if it will help.

I'll be needing to schedule my monthly bloodwork in the next week or so. The therapy requires you to have blood tests done once a month to monitor certain levels in your system. These tests must be done in order for you to get your new Rx for the month. No "refills" are allowed - you need to have a new Rx each month when you go to the pharmacy and your Rx must be filled within 7 days of the doctor writing it or it expires and you need to go back to the doctors office for another Rx.

I'll be posting regular updates on my treatment. Feel free to ask any questions!

Daily Buzz

2009-12-05T14:37:00.002-05:00

I'm going to be making my second appearance on the Daily Buzz on December 29th! Set your DVR's or Tivo's....or your alarm and get up early! We'll be covering the Top 5 things you can do for your skin in 2010!

WHO: Tanning Beds Cause Cancer

2009-11-20T10:41:00.003-05:00

The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer has moved UV tanning beds to it's highest cancer risk catagory, "CARCINOGENIC TO HUMANS." There is evidence linking indoor tanning to melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Tanning beds filter out UVB light, but expose the user to UVA. UVA light is a class 1 carcinogen and should be avoided.

A tan is not a sign of health, it's a sign that your skin to trying to protect itself from UV radiation!

Applying Sunscreen

2009-08-25T20:05:00.003-04:00

Did you know that most people do not use the amount of sunscreen that they should?! This lowers the SPF value. For the average size adult, the minimum amount of sunscreen for the total body coverage is one ounce - a golf ball size amount. Sunscreen should be applied to DRY skin 15-30 BEFORE sun exposure.

Sunscreens should be applied every 2 - 4 hours and after swimming, excessive sweating or toweling off. Water-resistant sunscreens protect your skin for 40 minutes of water exposure, while waterproof sunscreens protect for 80 minutes.

You can still treat yourself...

2009-06-21T10:22:00.002-04:00

Even with the economy the way it is, you can still treat yourself to spa services if you look around for some great deals! The Spa, LLC ( http://www.thespallc.com ) here in Orlando is keeping their books full by send out a daily email to everyone on the mail list, letting them know what appointments are available the next day. Those appointments can be booked at 50% off the regular prices! Yesterday I got a fab spa mani/pedi for $27.50!

Check your area for these types of deals and, even in these times where you may be trying to cut back, you may still be able to squeeze in a little "me time".

Remember, when taking advantage of these great deals, don't forget to tip your therapist based on what the regular cost of the treatment would be, not the discounted cost. :)

Indoor Tanning - UGH

2009-06-07T14:00:00.002-04:00

Tanning lamps can emit harmful UV radiation up to 12 times stronger than the sun - but, on an average day, more than 1 million Americans use tanning salons. PEOPLE - REALLY????

SO CUTE!

2009-06-07T13:59:00.001-04:00

File this entry under Whatnot...
These are so cute!

Fast Fact

2009-04-28T21:59:00.001-04:00

Melanoma is now the second most common form of cancer for young adults 15-29 years old.

Fast Fact

2009-04-20T17:46:00.001-04:00

Between 40 and 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have skin cancer at least once.

Blog

2009-03-29T10:09:00.001-04:00

Here it is! My "guest blog" submission! Enjoy...

http://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/blog/

Peace, Love & SPF

Guest Blog

2009-03-21T11:49:00.001-04:00

I'm going to be guest blogging on another site in the near future! I'll keep you up to date and post a link!