My Makeup Has Sunscreen in It

One of the most common comments I hear from patients is "I don't use sunscreen because my makeup has sunscreen in it." Sometimes people don't use sunscreen because it is in their moisturizer. And some don't use it because they do not like the way it feels. I recommend daily use of sunscreen, whether it is sunny or raining, hot or cold, winter or summer, and whether or not you are outside. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen should have a minimum SPF of 30 and it should have UVA and UVB (or broad spectrum) protection, which should be evident on the label. There are many different brands of sunscreen. Find one that feels comfortable and has a minimum SPF of 30 with UVA and UVB protection.

Both UVA and UVB can cause damage to the skin. The damage is seen as fine lines, textural irregularities, and laxity; signs of premature aging. Additionally, sun exposure can lead to pre-cancerous lesions called actinic keratoses as well as cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. To prevent premature aging, pre-cancers, and cancers, daily sunscreen use is essential.

There are various components in sunscreens which contribute to the overall SPF value. However, they are not all additive and the association is not linear. For example if a moisturizer contains sunscreen at an SPF 15 and makeup contains sunscreen with SPF 15, the total SPF is not necessarily 30. This is why I recommend sunscreen to be included in everyone's skin care regimen even if other components such as moisturizer and makeup contain sunscreen. Sunscreen should be applied after moisturizer and before makeup. For an added boost, use daily topical antioxidants such as vitamin C. These antioxidants neutralize the residual damage that occurs to the skin even when sunscreen is used properly.

New A E Skin Exfoliating Serum

Introducing the newest product in the A E Skin line: Exfoliating Serum. This product contains 2 % salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid which removes the dead cells on the surface layer of the skin. As we age these dead skin cells accumulate on the surface, giving an uneven texture and a dull appearance when in the light. Exfoliation with this serum provides a smooth texture to the skin along with a radiant glow. Only five to ten drops are required and it is to be used once a day in the morning immediately after washing and toning the face. This is an outstanding product for anti-aging because it improves fine lines and textural irregularities such as open pores and scars. It is also effective for acne and is contained in many acne products. It provides a gentle daily exfoliation which makes procedures such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser resurfacing more effective. The A E Skin Exfoliating Serum, as in all A E Skin products, contains no preservatives, which is why they have an expiration date of six months after production. Contact us today (info@aeskin.com 818-835-1833) so Dr. Alex can start a personalized regimen perfect for your skin.

New A E Skin Hydrating Serum

Introducing the newest product in the A E Skin Care line: A E Skin Hydrating Serum. This product contains 60 % pure hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the skin. Hylauronic acid binds 1,000 times its weight in water, providing a tremendous amount of hydration to the skin. Only two to four drops are required. When used twice daily, just prior to use of a moisturizer, the water balance in the skin becomes perfect for maintaining the natural metabolic functions of the skin. The Hydrating Serum causes the cells in the deep layer of the skin to work more effectively, restoring collagen and providing tighter skin. It also works as an antioxidant, reversing damage to the skin caused by sun and chemicals. The A E Skin Hydrating Serum is another product in the line which can be added to any skin care regimen.

Red Carpet Peel

Do you want to reverse the aging process? Unlike any other procedure, the Red Carpet Peel will enhance your skin’s natural beauty and give you a youthful radiance, making you look your best for any special occasion. Using a synergistic combination of ingredients, the Red Carpet Peel improves fine lines, wrinkles, and discolorations, while at the same time stimulating the production of collagen, leading to tighter skin and closing pores. It is also perfect for acne and acne scars. You will see dramatic results in about a week with this virtually painless procedure which takes less than 15 minutes.

Discovery of Latisse

Latisse is an outstanding product that is used for eyelash hypotrichosis, or inadequate eyelashes. The discovery of this prescription medication, like many others, is very interesting. Allergan, the maker of Latisse (and also Botox and Juvederm) was using the active ingredient (bimatoprost) to treat glaucoma in Lumigan. Patients using Lumigan noticed that their eyelashes were becoming darker, thicker, and fuller, an apparent side effect of the medication. Since the active ingredient was already approved by the FDA, Allergan was able to quickly convert it under the name Latisse and promote it for eyelash growth. Latisse is applied nightly and initial results appear in as early as four weeks, with full results apparent in twleve to sixteen weeks. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding.

Holiday Open House 2011

Our 2011 Holiday Open House was held on Wednesday December 7, 2011 at our new location: 15840 Ventura Bl. Suite 106, Encino, CA 91436. It was a great success. Many patients, both new and old, attended and took advantage of our exclusive specials, including discounted Botox, Juvederm, chemical peels, Latisse, Clarisonic Pro, and all skin care products. Patients also had the opportunity to meet our new colleagues, dentist Dr. Soheil Amir Moazzami of Alliance Dental, chiropractor Dr. Paul Chen, and aesthetician Suzie Bridges. The event was catered by Nuts and Berries Cafe and sponsored by Allergan. We had a live demonstration of a chemical peel, where guest got to observe the simple procedure. The festivities concluded with a raffle; prizes included Juvederm, chemical peels, and the new Red Carpet Peel. We wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. May 2012 bring more joy and beauty to all.

Effects of Smoking on the Skin

We all know that smoking is bad for the heart and lungs, but many people do not understand the harmful effects it can have on the skin. Tobacco leads to free radical and oxidant formation throughout the body. In the skin, this manifests itself as fine lines, wrinkles, laxity, and discoloration; in other words, premature aging. Similar to smoking, sun damage causes premature aging of the skin. We protect our skin from the sun using sunscreen and antioxidants. At the same time we must avoid behaviors such as smoking that lead to premature aging of the skin. Otherwise our efforts will be of no use. Smoking cessation will have a significant and direct impact on the look of your skin, not to mention the other health benefits it provides.

A E Skin's New Location

As of November 1, 2011 A E Skin is at a new and better location, just a couple of miles from our previous location. The address is 15840 Ventura Bl. Suite 106, Encino, CA 91436 at the southeast corner of Ventura Bl. and Gloria Ave. The nearest freeway exit is Haskell Ave. off the 101 freeway, 1/2 a mile west of the 405 freeway. We now share a suite with dentist Dr. Soheil Amir Moazzami, DDS (soheil95@yahoo.com) of Alliance Dental, chiropractor Dr. Paul Chen, DC, and medical aesthetician Susie Bridges of Skin Bliss. Validated parking is available in the building garage (enter on Gloria Ave.). Be sure to check out the delicious cafe in the lobby: Nut's and Berries. Same outstanding products. Same outstanding service. Beautiful new location.  Contact us for a free consultation.

California Bans UV Tanning Bed Use by Minors

On October 9, 2011 Califorina Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill into law prohibiting the use of indoor tanning for minors under 18 years of age, making California the first state to ban it for those aged 16-17. Ultraviolet tanning beds are dangerous to all people, not just minors, because it induces photodamage to the skin, which is evident as fine lines, discoloration, sagging skin, and laxity. Even more important is that it increases the risk for skin cancer, both melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, and non-melanoma skin cancer, the most common type of skin cancer. For these reasons dermatologists recommend against ultraviolet tanning beds. Spray tanning gives a similar effect without the risks. Dr. Ronald Roy, president of the American Academy of Dermatology Association commends "the California legislature for their efforts to help reduce the future incidence of skin cancer by protecting youth from the dangers of indoor tanning." The legislation was sponsored by the California Society of Dermatology and AIM at Melanoma, a non-profit organization involved in research and education in the area of melanoma.

Botox Before and After Pictures 3

The three most common areas for cosmetic treatment with Botox are the forehead, the glabella (area between the eyebrows), and crow's feet. Below is an example of an outstanding result for wrinkles on the forehead. The patient is attempting to raise his eyebrows in all pictures. Usually several injections are made over the forehead to relax the thin but broad muscle.

The next picture is an example of another great result, this time in the glabella. This patient is attempting to frown in all six pictures. Generally five to seven injection points are made in this area. While the area is not as large as the forehead, this muscle is large and requires a good dose for relaxation.

The picture below is another of the glabella, but this time a side view. Here you can see the bulge formed when the muscle is contracted is smoothed out after treatment. Again, the patient is attempting to frown in both pictures.

The other common area of treatment is the crows feet which appear around the eye when people smile or squint. Great results can also be obtained in this area. Because of the rich blood supply in this area, it is the most common place to get bruises after treatment. Bruises are temporary and the risk is minimized by placing ice over the area for a few minutes several times a day. Below is a before and after of a smiling patient who got great results. Treatment in this area can also give a cosmetically desirable lift to the outer part of the brow which is subtle yet evident in these pictures. In these areas anywhere from one  to six injections are made.

Exfoliation

As we age, dead skin cells accumulate on the surface of our skin. When light hits this skin it does not reflect, giving a dull appearance. Exfoliation helps remove this layer. The fresh cells that remain underneath reflect light and give a youthful and radiant appearance to the skin. Exfoliation can be done manually with scrubs, chemically with solutions, and with treatments such as peels and laser treatments. Using products containing acids such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and phytic acid daily in combination with procedures can help with a variety of conditions such as acne and provide a beautiful glow.

What is Dysport?

Dysport (abobotulinum toxin A) is a neuromodulator like Botox (onabotulinum toxin A) that received FDA clearance in 2009 and is becoming a popular alternative to Botox. The active component of the two products is identical and both give similar results for improvement of wrinkles caused by muscle contraction such as those between the brows. The units of the two products are not equivalent. Most doctors equate 2.5 to 3 units of Dysport to 1 unit of Botox; so more units of Dysport are required to produce the same effect as Botox. Hence the per unit cost of Dysport is significantly less. Clinically, Dysport diffuses more than Botox, which may lead to potential adverse effects depending on where it is injected. Speak with your doctor about which product is best for you.

Distant Spread of Toxin Effect: Postmarketing reports indicate that the effects of Dysport and all botulinum toxin products may spread from the area of injection to produce symptoms consistent with botulinum toxin effects. These may include asthenia, generalized muscle weakness, diplopia, blurred vision, ptosis, dysphagia, dysphonia, dysarthria, urinary incontinence, and breathing difficulties. These symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening, and there have been reports of death. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity, but symptoms can also occur in adults treated for spasticity and other conditions, particularly in those patients who have underlying conditions that would predispose them to these symptoms. In unapproved uses, including spasticity in children and adults, and in approved indications, cases of spread of effect have been reported at doses comparable to those used to treat cervical dystonia and at lower doses.

Laser Hair Removal Demonstration

Laser hair removal begins with cleaning the area to be treated, in this case the upper lip. An eye shield is used to protect the patient's eyes. Next a thin layer of gel is applied to the area to be treated. This allows the light to penetrate the skin and keeps the skin cool to prevent burns and blisters. Then the appropriate settings are entered. These are adjusted for each patient. The laser is then applied to the skin. This laser has a sapphire tip which is chilled to protect the skin. Additionally a chiller is used to blow cold air onto the treated area, further protecting the skin. Pulses are made with slight overlap until the entire area is covered. Any area on the body can be treated except around the eyes. Common areas of treatment for women include the upper lip, sideburns, underarms, and legs. For men, common areas of treatment include chest and back. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not be treated.

Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a simple procedure done in the office for a variety of skin concerns. After washing the face, a controlled amount of a chemical is carefully applied to the skin. Patients will experience a stinging, burning, or itching sensation. Often times a fan is used to help with this. After a short time the solution is neutralized or diluted with water, although some preparations do not require this step. After a few days, the skin begins to peel, removing the dead skin cells on the surface. Usually by one week, the new skin that re-grows is refreshed and rejuvenated, and you see improvements in terms of color, texture, and tone. During this period a list of aftercare instructions are provided to prevent unwanted effects such as scars or blisters.

As we age, dead skin cells accumulate on the surface of the skin. When light hits such skin, it does not reflect, giving a dull appearance. Exfoliation with scrubs, at home solutions, and chemical peels removes this layer and provides a glow to the skin. It works great for a variety of skin conditions including acne, discoloration, enlarged pores, scars, and even some pre-cancerous lesions. When performed in a series at monthly intervals and combined with skin care products such as anti-oxidants, exfoliants, retinoids, bleaching agents, and sunscreens beautiful results can be obtained.

Laser Leg Vein Treatment

Many people are surprised to learn that lasers can be used to treat leg veins, and veins anywhere on the skin for that matter. Amazing results can be achieved on a variety of veins, from the larger deep blue ones to the tiny superficial red ones. The principal is the same as that for hair removal, but the target is the blood instead of the hair. A laser or light based device, sometimes combined with radiofrequency is used to target the blood and destroy the vessel. Treatments are sometimes uncomfortable, but most people see results almost immediately. A series of at least three treatments is usually needed in four to eight week intervals. Like laser hair removal, it should not be performed on patients who are pregnant or breast feeding.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a common procedure for permanent hair reduction. A Laser or light-based device, sometimes combined with radiofrequency, is used to target the base of the hair and destroy it. Anywhere from six to ten treatments are required in 4-8 week intervals and results are usually fantastic. Little or no discomfort is experienced during the procedure because of various types of cooling mechanisms used. The procedure can be performed on anywhere there is hair except around the eyes. Commonly treated areas include sideburns, upper lip, chin, underarms, and legs for women and chest and back for men. Settings are adjusted based on skin type. Laser hair removal can be less effective or ineffective if you have a tan in the area. It also does not work well for red, blond, grey, and white hairs. It should not be done on patients who are pregnant or breast feeding.

Laser Skin Tightening

Laser skin tightening is a great procedure for those interested in a non-invasive approach to improving skin laxity. The modalities are numerous, including laser or light based devices, radiofrequency, ultrasound, and cooling. Many of these methods work by heating the deep layer of the skin called the dermis, serving to denature the collagen and causing it to snap, leading to tightening of the skin. Other methods work by destroying or decreasing fat cells. Either way impressive results can be seen in areas such as the chin, neck, jawline, and cheeks. Multiple treatments are generally required and results improve over time. Combining such treatments with fillers, Botox, topical creams, chemical peels, and other laser treatments can lead to outstanding results.

Proper sunscreen application

Proper sunscreen application begins with choosing the right sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 with UVA and UVB protection. This should be evident on the label. As long as these criteria are met, use any such sunscreen that is comfortable.

Sunscreen should be the last step in a skin care regimen in the morning before any makeup (if any). The amount required for an appropriate application to the face is approximately the size of a quarter. It should cover all exposed surfaces of the skin. Common areas that are missed include the ears, front and back of the neck, and upper chest. Sunscreen should also be applied to all exposed areas of the body, including the trunk, arms, legs, and feet. Spray on sunscreens work well for these areas.

Makeup or moisturizers that contain sunscreen should not be used as a substitute for sunscreen or part of the SPF. For example if a moisturizer contains SPF 15, adding a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will not necessarily bring the total SPF to 30. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes prior to going outside so it can be completely absorbed for a full effect. It should be applied whether the forecast calls for overcast or sunny skies. It should be applied year round. If outside for long periods of time, it should be re-applied every couple of hours.

In the event of water exposure such as when at the pool or the beach, sunscreen should be re-applied more often. Sunscreens are not waterproof. Some sunscreens claim to be water resistant, meaning that they are still active after water exposure. However, re-application after water exposure is highly recommended.

With proper sunscreen application and sun protective behavior, risks of wrinkles, discolorations, and skin cancer can be minimized.

Alternate Uses for Botox

Most people are aware of the common uses for Botox: forehead lines, frown lines, and crow's feet. Other cosmetic uses include injections on the bridge of the nose for bunny lines, around the eyes to open up the eyes. In the lower face, injection sites include the edge of the nose to help lower the lips when people smile. This is particularly useful for people who show a lot of their gums above their teeth when they smile. At the same time, such injections decrease the depth of laugh lines. Injections in the chin can improve lines and bumps that occur in those areas. Injections just beside the chin can elevate the edge of the lips, leading to a less angry appearance.

Non-cosmetic uses for Botox include various areas for migraine headaches and in the underarms and palms for excessive sweating.

Distant spread of toxin effect
Postmarketing reports indicate that the effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic and all botulinum toxin products may spread from the area of injection to produce symptoms consistent with botunilum toxin effects. These may include asthenia, generalized muscle weakness, diplopia, blurred vision, ptosis, dysphagia, dysphonia, dysarthria, urinary incontinence, and breathing difficulties. These symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening, and there have been reports of death. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spacticity, but symptoms can also occur in adults treated for spacticity and other conditions, particularly in those patients who have underlying conditions that would predispose them to these symptoms. In unapproved uses, including spacticity in children and adults, cases of spread of effect have occured at doses comparable to those used to treat cervical dystonia at lower doses.

Essentials of a skin care regimen

Great skin does not occur on its own. An appropriate skin care regimen is required for healthy and beautiful skin. A skin care regimen should be performed twice daily. The regimen starts with washing the face. Clean skin is healthy skin. Brushes like the Clarisonic Pro can be used to more effectively remove oil, dirt, debris, or makeup. Next is a toner, which helps close pores and prepares the pH of the skin for the subsequent steps. After this, vitamins, nutrients, and growth factors are added, for example vitamin C serum or Skin Medica's TNS Essential serum. Eye creams are also applied here. The following step is when a variety of other products can be added, prescription or non-prescription. These include exfoliants such as salicylic acid, acne products such as benzoyl peroxide, steroid creams, antibiotic creams, bleaching agents such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, or licorice extract, and retinoids (nighttime only). The regimen concludes with a moisturizer followed by sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 and UVA and UVB protection (daytime only). Determine the best regimen for you, stick to it, and look forward to looking and feeling your best!

Summer Skin Care Tips

Skin care during the summer months is extremely important. Sunlight can cause a lot of damage to the skin including fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer so it is important to protect yourself every day. Wear a sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater with UVA and UVB protection (this should be written on the container). Apply a liberal amount of sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside. Don't forget areas below the neck which may be exposed such as the chest, back, arms, and legs. Those areas can get sunburned too. Try to stay out of the sun between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun's rays are strongest. If outside stay in shady areas if possible and when outside for more than two hours, re-apply sunscreen every couple of hours. Wear protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts, and pants. Finally, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking 6 to 8 cups of water each day.

Causes of Wrinkles

There are multiple different causes of wrinkles, each with its own treatment. As we age, the outer layer of our skin becomes thinner and retains water less effectively. Moisturizers help with dryness. Additionally, with age our skin produces less collagen and it is broken down more quickly, leading to laxity. Creams such as tretinoin help to counteract these effects. Over time sun exposure and other insults such as air pollution and cigarette smoking cause damage to the skin. The best protection from this is preventive by using sunscreens and anti-oxidants such as vitamin C. Chemical peels and laser resurfacing procedures also treat such damage. Gravity and shrinkage of fat lead to the descent of the cheek fat pad, laugh lines, and jowls. Fillers such as Juvederm and laser skin tightening procedures are effective treatments for these conditions. Finally, the use of muscles of facial expression cause wrinkles overlying those muscles. These wrinkles are treated with Botox.

Descent of the cheek fat pad

Everyone is born with a fat pad on the cheek just under the skin. Over time, due to gravity, this fat pad starts to descend, leading to the formation of naso-labial folds, also called smile lines or parentheses lines, as well as jowls, which are visible portions of the fat pad along the jaw line. Fillers such as Juvederm and skin tightening procedures work well to improve these changes that occur as we age.

Importance of Using a Toner

A toner is an important part of a skin care regimen that many people do not think about. Toner should be used as the second step in the regimen immediately following a face wash. The face wash cleans the skin, eliminating oil and debris and simultaneously opens the pores. The toner serves to close the pores and decrease the pH of the skin, allowing for better penetration and absorption of the subsequent products such as exfoliants, retinoids, vitamins, moisturizers, bleaching agents, and more. Use of a toner twice a day will increase the efficacy of the products in the regimen, leading to brighter, healthier skin.

The Aesthetic Show 2011

The Aesthetic Show 2011 was held at the convention center at the Aria resort and casino in Las Vegas, NV June 2-5. Numerous world-renown experts in the field gave talks on various topics including neurotoxins such as Botox, fillers such as Juvederm, chemical peels, Latisse, skin care products, laser therapy, and much more. Also present were representatives from various companies including skin care lines, lasers, and others. Doctors, nurses, aestheticians, and staff members travelled from all over the world to attend this exciting conference. The highlight of the show was the ceremony on Saturday night hosted by Dr. Andrew Ordon of the award-winning television show "The Doctors." Multiple awards were given for best procedures and several prizes were given away in a drawing including products, a vacation, and even a Syneron eMatrix laser for sublative rejuvenation. The show was a great hit and should be again next year!

Growth Factors for Your Skin

As we age our skin changes. The production of growth factors that occurs in young, radiant skin slows down as we age. Collagen, an important molecule in providing firmness to the skin, is broken down and it's formation slows down. This leads to laxity, fine lines, and wrinkles. Retinoid compounds have been used for many years to restore collagen. A unique product from Skin Medica, TNS Essential Serum, contains growth factors, peptides, and antioxidants to counteract the aging process. Overall there are over 100 active ingredients in the product. The growth factors stimulate collagen production to strengthen the extra-cellular matrix and the peptides and antioxidants prevent the aging process. It provides improvements in terms of color, texture, and tone. It plumps and brightens the skin. And it prevents free radical damage that occurs from sun exposure. Many people see improvements in a matter of days. This is a great product that can be added to any skin care regimen.

Clarisonic Pro

The Clarisonic Pro is a great product to help clean the skin. It can be used with any facewash and it's waterproof, so you can take it in the shower. The gentle micro-massage loosens dirt and debris that builds up on the skin, leading to cleaner and healthier skin. Studies show that using it leads to much cleaner skin that manual cleansing. It removes makeup more effectively than manual cleansing. It improves absorption of skin care products. And it reduces signs of photo-aging. It has multiple brush heads which can be used for the face or body, and for all skin types from oily to sensitive. There is even a travel size option called the Mia. It's a great supplement that can be used with any skin care regimen.

Importance of a Daily Skin Care Regimen

The importance of a daily skin care regimen can not be emphasized enough. This is important whether or not you are having a procedure done. A good facewash twice daily is the first step; clean skin is healthy skin. Sunscreen is important to prevent discoloration, fine lines, and laxity and to prevent skin cancer. Anti-oxidants such as vitamin C also prevent sun damage. Exfoliants such as tretinoin and salicylic acid help remove the surface layer of dead skin cells. This gives the skin a youthful radiance. Bleaching agents such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, and licorice extract decrease hyperpigmentation (dark discoloration) and prevent it from occurring after a procedure.

Sublative Rejuvenation

Sublative rejuvenation with the Syneron Matrix RF is a new and effective method to improve textural irregularities in the skin. This resurfacing device uses radiofrequency to heat up the deep layer of the skin called the dermis. It stimulates collagen regeneration, giving a smooth appearance to the skin. It works great for acne scars, enlarged pores, fine wrinkles, and discoloration. The best thing is that it does not use a laser or light source, which makes it safe for all skin types. The before and after photographs above show a typical result after a series of treatments. Most patients have a series of at least three treatments in one month intervals.

See the video below for more information.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmu1mD86PbM

Top Ten Skin Care Tips

1. Use sunscreen every day. Even if it's overcast or if you're not going outside. Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and with UVA and UVB protection.

2. Wash your face twice daily. Clean skin is healthy skin.

3. Avoid excessive sun exposure. Wear sunglasses, hats, and protective clothing. Avoid the sun during the middle of the day and try to stay in the shade when outside. Sun damage can lead to wrinkles, laxity, color irregularities, and skin cancer.

4. Use an antioxidant such as a vitamin C product. This will help prevent sun damage and maintain a youthful and radiant appearance.

5. Use a retinoid such as tretinoin. This will remove the dead surface layer of the skin giving the skin a brighter glow. It also helps restore collagen, which will decrease laxity.

6. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.

7. Exercise regularly. This will promote blood flow to the skin and give you a healthy looking complexion.

8. Eat healthy. Avoid oily and fried foods, while consuming foods rich in nutrients such as fish and dark green vegetables.

9. Get an appropriate amount of sleep every day. This is especially important to avoid puffiness and bags around the eyes.

10. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by avoiding tobacco, excessive alcohol, and non-prescription drugs.

Fears of hydroquinone

Many people express fears of the compound hydroquinone, which is the active ingredient in a number of skin bleaching agents such as the Obagi Clear, Blender, and Sunfader. Hydroquinone is a naturally occurring chemical found in coffee, tea, beer, wine, blueberry, wheat, grass, and other foods. People ingest it daily.

Some side effects such as redness or irritation are common and to be expected.  It should not be used in women who are pregnant, breast feeding, or trying to get pregnant. Over the counter products contain it in up to 2 % strength. The most common prescription strength is 4 %.

Fears of this product stem from a study in which rats genetically prone to kidney tumors were fed hydroquinone many times the normal dose. These rats were found to have kidney tumors. When applied topically to humans, it has never been shown to cause cancer. While hydroquinone can bleach the skin effectively, it's use should be supervised by a doctor, and when used topically (not orally) at the appropriate doses for an appropriate time frame, there should be no concern for cancer.

 

Tretinoin

Tretinoin is a prescription-strength vitamin A derivative that can provide phenomenal results when applied topically to the skin. Some products which contain tretinoin as the active ingredient include Altinac, Avita, Refissa, Renova, Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, and Solage. Tretinoin stimulates skin regrowth, stimulates collagen production and reduces its breakdown, and improves blood flow to the skin. It also thickens a layer of the skin called the dermis, which gives a more youthful appearance to the skin. This leads to improvements in roughness, fine lines, and laxity. Tretinoin comes in different vehicles such as cream or gel and in different strengths. It is an outstanding product for acne, acne scars, textural irregularities such as enlarged pores, and aging skin.

Retinol, on the other hand, is a derivative of tretinoin that is found in many over-the-counter products. It's action is similar to tretinoin, but it's effects are not as strong. Iso-tretinoin is another derivative of tretinoin that is an oral medication that has been used for acne, but has numerous potential side effects which have limited its use.

New Obagi Elastilash

The new Obagi Elastilash is an alternative to Latisse. It is not prescription strength and does not have the side effects known to occur at times with Latisse such as iris pigmentation. Also Elastilash has not been shown to lengthen the lashes, but it does provide impressive results in terms of fullness and thickness. The price per bottle is significantly less than Latisse, and one bottle last 2-3 months, rather than one month.

Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the strongest antioxidant available for the skin. It has a number of beneficial effects. It stimulates collagen synthesis, which can improve laxity. It reduces inflammation, decreasing potential redness. It enhances UV protection by sunscreens, leading to decreased pigmentation, age spots, wrinkles, and risk for skin cancer. It is a great moisturizer. Finally it replenishes vitamin E. With all of these benefits, vitamin C is an outstanding choice to add to your daily regimen regardless of skin type. It will give you a youthful glow and radiance.

 

More on chemical peels

An occasion such as a wedding is an outstanding opportunity to make your skin look younger and more radiant. You can get this look with a number of approaches. Chemical peels work great for this purpose. A series of three treatments once per month can give amazing results. The treatment takes only a few minutes and is completely painless. Within a week you will see softer, more radiant skin. Improvements are seen in discoloration, textural changes such as fine wrinkles and pores, tone, acne, and overall aging. Have you gotten your peel yet?

More Botox before and after pictures

Botox works well for horizontal lines on the forehead. Look at the significant improvement the patient below got with a single treatment.

It also works great on frown lines between the brow. The patient below is attempting to frown in both before and after pictures, but again the lines have disappeared with a single treatment.

Botox can make you look more rested

That's right, Botox can actually make a person look more rested. The patient shown below had a treatment between the eyebrows, relaxing the muscles that pull down the brow, giving her a nice lift. You can also see the reduction in the upper eyelid lag. The sclera (white area) of the eye is more visible. The eyes look larger and she looks rested and rejuvenated.

Latisse special offer

Latisse is a great treatment for what is called eyelash hypotrichosis, which is not enough eyelashes. It is a simple once a day treatment that leads to longer, darker, and fuller lashes. Initial results are seen in as little as four weeks with full results in 12 to 16 weeks. A one-month supply comes with the liquid medication and 30 pairs of applicators, one per day. One drop is applied on the applicator tip and applied to the area where the eyelash touches the skin. Results are sustained as long as it is used.

Allergan, the company that makes Latisse (and also Botox and Juvederm), is offering a special which expires at the end of April 2011. If you buy one bottle of Latisse, you can get another mailed to you for free. Contact us for our current specials: 818-835-1833, info@aeskin.com.

See before and after pictures of models below.



Botox before and after pictures

Check out the new Botox before and after pictures below. This patient had a treatment on her forehead to improve the horizontal wrinkles that appear when she raises her eyebrows. The before pictures are shown on the left and after on the right. Three different angles are shown. The patient is attempting to raise her eyebrows in all images. Notice the lack of lines on the right. Amazing!

This is an actual patient who signed a release allowing use of photography for marketing purposes.