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.