Skin Care Tips

Protect Your Skin!

There are two types of sun protection available: chemical sunscreens and physical sunblocks. A chemical sunscreen works by absorbing, reflecting or scattering the sun’s rays (UV radiation) before they affect the skin. A physical sunblock sits on the skin's surface and reflects or scatters UV radiation before it is able to damage the skin. These two forms of protection have different methods of achieving a similar goal.

The FDA requires that all sun protection products display a Sun Protection Factor or SPF label. The SPF indicates the relative amount of sunburn protection a product can provide when used correctly. Sunscreens or sunblocks with an SPF of at least 15 are recommended, however the number can be misleading as an SPF of 30 is not twice as protective as an SPF of 15. When used properly, an SPF of 15 protects the skin from 93 percent of UVB radiation and an SPF 30 sunscreen provides 97 percent protection. Although the SPF ratings apply only to UVB rays, applying a product containing avobenzone, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide will provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

 

  • Dew
  • Air-brush Tanning
  • Facial
  • Makeup

Myths and Misconceptions

Myth: Chemical peels & homecare products can be used to lighten freckles

Truth: Freckles that have been present since early childhood are part of your genetic make-up. Most people who have a naturally freckled complexion may try to even the overall tone with frequent UV exposure and tanning. This can lead to additional sun induced freckling and skin discoloration. While chemical peels and cosmeceutical products will correct the freckling from sun damage, freckles that are part of your hereditary background will always resurface.

Myth: Acne is only a problem during adolescence

Truth: Acne is becoming a more common skin challenge in adults. Adult acne affects more women than men and is often caused by hormone fluctuations and/or stress. Adult acne most commonly affects the lower areas of the face while adolescent acne is more widespread. As skin ages, oil production slows making it critical to choose products to address adult acne that are not too drying. Acne affects each of us differently as we age and should be treated accordingly.

Myth: The light and dark spots that are sometimes present after excessive sun exposure are treatable

Truth: The white areas are called hypopigmentation and, as of now there is no known method to permanently correct this condition. Typically hypopigmentation is accompanied by hyperpigmentation or dark spots that can be treated. Evening the surrounding dark spots will often lessen the appearance of the lighter areas.

Facials – Face the Facts

Want to improve the condition of your skin but don’t know where to start? Book a Facial.

If you never consulted a dermatologist or had your skin evaluated by a professional, you’re self-treating something you may not completely understand. Skin you think is oily may in fact only be dehydrated; skin you’ve deemed sensitive may only be reacting to overly harsh products. My recommendation: get yourself in for a facial! A true facial is about more than relaxation – it’s a tune-up for your skin. You’ll get a more thorough cleansing than anything you can do at home, plus an up-close, real-time analysis of your skin’s condition, including advice and support on what products to use and how to care for it.

Always look for a licensed esthetician (rather than a cosmetologist). Licensed estheticians have more in-depth skin care training. “There are two types of estheticians”, “There are the perfectionists who get skin squeaky clean by zoning in on every single dirty pore-including those on your nose and ears - and those who are more nurturing and touchy feely. I offer the best of both worlds “I am both”!

Facials should be designed on the spot and customized with your individual budget and needs in mind. “Clients should just book the block of time, not the service”. Booking a facial can be very confusing, especially if you have never had one. Your esthetician should always know what your skin needs. A basic European Facial should include: cleansing, skin analysis, exfoliation, massage, extractions, mask, topical creams, home skin care advice. Intelligent upgrades include microdermabrasion and mild glycolic or salicylic peels.

Skin Conditions

Acne – Acne is the most common skin condition in humans, affecting nearly 45 million Americans each year. Acne develops where there are more oil glands present, e.g. face, scalp, chest, back and neck. There are many different types of acne and each client should be treated according to their particular case.

Aging – Aging of the skin is a result of many different factors that can be broken into two categories: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic or uncontrollable aging is chronological and genetic. Facial wrinkling, expression lines and drier, more sensitive skin may be a result of intrinsic aging. The extrinsic or more controllable factors of aging refer to exposure to the sun and/or pollutants which cause a breakdown of the skin’s structure, leading to discoloration, wrinkles, skin growths and even cancer. Many skin scientists believe the extrinsic factors are to blame for 90% of the visible signs of aging. When attempting to correct signs of aging, it is important to use products that not only treat, but also prevent future damage from occurring.

Hyperpigmentation (skin discoloration) – Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of an area of skin. Causes of hyperpigmentation range from sun damage caused by UV exposure, hormone fluctuations due to pregnancy or menopause, and skin injuries such as acne scarring. Certain skin types can also be more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. It is important to consult with a skin care professional prior to using products to even skin discoloration as high percentages of strong ingredients can cause further irritation and lead to more discoloration.

Rosacea – Rosacea is a somewhat misunderstood skin condition. Currently, there is no known cure or cause. Rosacea is generally characterized by persistent redness and/or breakouts on the central areas of the face, commonly affecting the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin. Although there is no cure, there are many different methods of controlling rosacea symptoms. There are medical therapies that work well in conjunction with cosmeceuticals and professional treatments to control rosacea symptoms. Consult a physician for a diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Dry skin – Dry skin is partially the result of dead cell buildup, which actually hinders natural exfoliation as well as the absorption and penetration of vitamins and nutrients. Having a PCA Professional™ chemical peel will remove surface buildup, hydrate the skin and give it a plumper, “thicker” appearance. The use of topical vitamin C and peptide products in a treatment, as well as in your daily care regimen will help build collagen in the skin, thus making it stronger and more durable.

Things to Look for in a Great Esthetician:

  • Well groomed, friendly, great listener (pays attention to details).  Responsive to your needs.
  • Treatment Room must be extremely clean, sanitation must be a priority.
  • Knowledgeable to customize a treatment plan for your skin type.  Advises how to maintain your skincare program at home.
  • Knowledgeable about the benefits of skin care products and their ingredients.
  • Knowledgeable about problematic skin, can recognize when to refer a client to a dermatologist.

Benefits of Maintenance Facials

  • Relieves stress and muscle tension that causes deep wrinkles
  • Reduced fine lines and wrinkles
  • Reduced hyperpigmentation
  • Improved overall complexion and “youthful glow”
  • Promotes collagen production
  • Skin rejuvenation and improved texture