Archive for October, 2011
The Illuminize Peel is a very superficial treatment that gently exfoliates and brightens skin with out any peeling or down time. Mild exfoliating treatments like the Illuminize peel work well to enhance the benefits of skin care products and freshen up skin in between more aggressive skin treatments.
At Paradise Valley Skin Klinic, we include dermaplaning with the Illuminize Peel!
This non-invasive very superficial chemical peel utilizes a novel approach to chemical peeling with a newer generation of alpha-hydroxy acids (mandelic acid and malic acid) in combination with phytic acid and commonly used peeling agents (salicylic acid and resorcinol) to maximize skin rejuvenating effects with low irritation.
– Increase skin glow and radiance
– Tightens the skin and restores a more youthful appearance
– Improves clarity, color and skin texture
– Achieve enhancement of skin appearance with minimal downtime and discomfort
– Appropriate for a first-time chemical peel or for those looking for a gentle, very superficial peel
– May be performed on dark skin
– Little or no visible peeling
The content provide in this post is intended to be informative and does not replace medical or professional treatment.
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The Obagi Blue Peel improves hyper pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, large pores, laxity, skin texture and acne scars.
The Obagi Blue Peel is a unique procedure designed to precisely control the depth of a TCA chemical peel. The Blue Peel uses Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) as the active ingredient and a patented Blue Base with built in safeguards. The TCA and blue peel solution is prepared at a fixed concentration and applied in a “coating system”. The Blue base gives the skin professional more control over the peel by slowing the penatratation of the TCA solution and making it easier to recognize desired endpoints. The coating system helps monitor and control the depth of the peel.
The Obagi Nu Derm system and Obagi Blue Peel are designed to work together. The Obagi Nu-Derm system is used before the peel to precondition skin and as a post treatment protocol. Pre-conditioning prepares skin by correcting and stimulating normal skin function to speed healing. The amount of time for preconditioning is determined by the skin type and condition, usually a minimum of 6 weeks. Post-treatment promotes shorter recovery time, aids in resolution of erythema (redness) and post- inflammatory hyperpigmentation. I will not do a Blue Peel on anyone who has not preconditioned, post treatment care is also not optional.
The Obagi Blue Peel is not something you just schedule and show up for, it requires a little planning and preparation. A consultation is required before scheduling a Blue Peel to determine the depth of the peel needed to achieve desired results. In some cases a Blue Peel may not be your best option or additional treatments may be needed, so other treatment possibilities may be discussed. You will also need to begin a skin care regimen with the Obagi Nu-Derm system, a minimum of 6 weeks prior to your peel. During the consultation you will discuss the length and amount of peeling to expect with your peel , so that you can plan your schedule accordingly. The price of the Blue Peel varies depending on the depth of the peel, however even in the deepest Blue Peel is only a fraction of the cost of many laser treatments. ( The Blue Peel is amazing when combined with fillers and Botox. Think Chemical Facelift!)
Depth of Obagi Blue Peel
The Obagi Blue Peel can be performed at different levels or depths, depending on the desired results. The Obagi Blue peel uses a coating system as a way of preparing and controlling the depth of the peel. People often get confused by the term “coat”. When we say coats we are not referring to how many times the peel is painted on the face, a coat refers to a specific volume of a prepared solution. The blue peel uses a 30% TCA and a patented blue base that is prepared in either a 15% or 20% solution. It is important to understand that 2 coats of a 15% solution is not the equivalent of 2 coats of a 20% solution. A Blue peel solution of 20% is also not the equivalent of a plain 20% TCA. When considering a Blue Peel try not to confuse your self with the coat system and the concentration of the prepared solution, instead focus on the depth of the peel needed to achieve specific results.
[ Chemical Peels 101: skin anatomy, chemical peels, and peeling agents ]
Light Exfoliation: Peeling is complete in 2-3 days.
This is commonly referred to as a 1 coat peel
– Penetrates the stratum corneum layer of the skin.
– Provide light exfoliation to freshen the skin
– Unclogs pores and reduces comedones
Deep Exfoliation: Peeling is complete in 4-7 days.
This is commonly referred to as a 2 coat peel.
– Penetrates to the basal layer of the skin.
– Temporary improvement of superficial hyper-pigmentation
– Enhances results of the Nu-derm system
Standard Blue Peel: Peeling is complete in 7-9 days.
This is commonly referred to as a three coat peel.
– Penetrates the papillary dermis layer of the skin.
– Treats hyper-pigmentation Brown spots and Melasma
– Improves skin texture, reducing roughness
– Tightens large pores
Designed Blue Peel: Peeling is complete in 9-14 days.
This is commonly referred to as a 4 coat peel.
– Penetrates to the reticular dermis layer of the skin.
– Treats hyper-pigmentation Brown spots and Melasma
– Improves skin texture, reducing roughness
– Tightens large pores
– Skin laxity, fine lines, “stretchable” wrinkles and scars.
*Immediate reticular dermis (IRD) is the area where the papillary dermis meets the upper reticular dermis.
Pre-conditioning before the Obagi Blue Peel
Skin should be conditioned before a Blue Peel, this is done by using the full Obagi Nu Derm system along with a topical tretinoin (Retin-A). Conditioning the skin prior to the peel will enhance results and reduce complications. Pre-conditioning prepares skin by correcting and stimulating normal skin function to speed healing. The Obagi Nu Derm is a complete system and should be used as such. It is not recommended to eliminate or substitute the skin products in the Obagi System. Your skin health professional will give you a specific protocol that is appropriate for your skin. You will be instructed when and how to use each product as well as how to measure the recommended amount of each product. You will also be shown how manage reactions and how to modify your protocol to fit your lifestyle.
Obagi Medical skin care products are prescription strength, and available only through a physician’s office.The products in this system should be used with the same respect and diligence as any prescribed drug. You should only use Obagi products that you have received directly from your skin care professional, under a doctors supervision. Products sold by unauthorized distributers or online may be counterfeit, expired or degraded in quality. This can lead to reduced results and complications. When you purchase Nu-derm products from anyone other than your personal skin care professional, they are unable to calculate if you are using your creams correctly or guarantee efficacy of the products, consequently the results of your treatment can not be assured.
[ Obagi Nu-Derm: Restore Skin Health ]
Post- treatment after the Obagi Blue Peel
The Peel Stage
The peeling stage is 3-14 days depending on depth of peel.
The amount of peeling will depend on the level of peel. Skin will generally begin to darken on the 3rd day and peeling will begin on day 3 or 4, depending on depth of peel. Peeling begins around eyes, nose and mouth. With a standard or designed blue peel, days 4-6 will appear the worst. The peeling stage is not painful, but the skin will feel tight and dry. Follow all post treatment instructions. NO PICKING! It is extremely important that you do not assist the peel, treat the skin like you are trying to keep it on. Do not pick, pull or remove skin. Complications can occur if skin is peeled off prematurely.
During the peeling stage you will be instructed to follow specific post treatment instructions. This will include using a gentle cleanser and mild topical creams designed by Dr Obagi to be used after a Blue peel. If you have had a deeper peel you may be instructed to use an astringent solution compress. Sun exposure should be avoided after the peel. Chemical sunblocks and makeup can not be used, however you may be able to use an “approved” mineral makeup which will provide a little sun protection. I usually recommend Jane Iredale mineral makeup.
[ Chemical Peels: Post Treatment Care and Instructions ]
Recovery Stage
The recovery stage begins when peeling is complete and lasts 1-6 weeks, depending on depth of peel. When the peeling is complete, skin will look good and will continue to improve as it heels. Skin may look a little pink or red and it is not un usual to see an acne flare-up. After peeling is complete it is important to resume Obagi Nu-derm system as instructed to enhance results and reduce the probability of post inflammatory pigmentation.
Return to Normal
Skin will return to normal when the recovery stage is complete. Results of the procedure can be evaluated at this point and you will resume Obagi Nu-Derm system under the normal protocol. It is important to not discontinue Nu-Derm system prematurely. You will continue on a normal Obagi Nu Derm protocol until advised to begin a maintenance protocol, usually 6-12 weeks. This will depend on how aggressive your nu-derm protocol is, the condition of your skin and desired results.
Maintenance
When skin has been corrected and has returned to a normal healthy state a maintenance protocol will be designed to help you maintain your results. Your skin health professional will instruct you when to begin a maintenance protocol, this is usually.
The content provide in this post is intended to be informative and does not replace medical or professional treatment.
Thank you for visiting Best of Both Worlds Az
You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and on our blog site
www.bestofbothworldsaz.com
®© All Rights Reserved.
Acne is a disease state in which skin cells that line a hair or sebaceous follicle are shed, but fail they to make it to the surface of the skin to be sloughed away. An acne lesion begins when sebum (oil) causes skin cells to stick together and clog a follicle. When oil and dead skin cells collect in the follicle, bacteria quickly multiplies, specifically Propionbacterium (P.acne bacteria). The bacteria causes the release of free fatty acids, which irritate the follicle and cause inflammation.
Acne Lesions
We usually refer to acne lesions simply as blemishes or pimples, however there are specific names used for acne lesions. A non-inflammatory acne lesion is known as a comedo that develops when a hair follicle has become clogged with dead skin cells and oil. When bacteria infects an acne lesion and the follicular wall ruptures it is known as an inflammatory lesion. An inflammatory lesion is elevated and the skin surrounding it is usually red and sensitive.
Micro-comedones
A non- inflammatory, very tiny hard blockage under the skin. It is the smallest acne lesion and is not visible at the skins surface. This is the beginning stage of a blocked follicle. Micro-comedones develop into open or closed comedones as trapped sebum (oil) increases.
Closed Comedones (Whiteheads or Milia)
A small non- inflammatory bump at the surface of the skin. Dead skin cells and oil become trapped inside the follicle, and the opening to the follicle is closed.
Open Comedones (Blackheads)
A small non- inflammatory, plug at the surface of the skin. Dead skin cells and oil block the opening to a follicle creating a plug. Unlike a whitehead the opening to the follicle is open, allowing the dead skin cells and sebum at the opening to be exposed to oxygen. When exposed to oxygen the dead skin cells and sebum (oil) will oxidize and appear black. Blackheads develop in follicles that are large.
Papules
Inflamed small red or pink bumps on the skin with out an opening. Papuals do not contain pus, however they can develop into a pustule or a nodule. As a papule becomes more inflamed pus will form and it will develop into a pustule, if the lesion is deep it will develop into a nodule.
Pustules
An inflamed, pus filled acne lesion. Pustules are what are commonly called pimples and the white or yellow center is often called a “head”. A pustule is surrounded by a circle of red inflamed skin.
Nodules & Cysts
Nodules and cysts are large inflamed acne lesions that develop deep within the skin. They are severe forms of acne that often cause scars. You should never attempt to pop or extract cyst or nodules, they need to be treated medically.
Nodule
A large, solid, inflamed, pus- filled lesion that is located deep within the skin. A nodule will feel firm because the puss hardens inside the lesion. The body’s immune system responds by trying to keep the bacteria from spreading and skin cells will grow or wrap around the follicle. Nodules are often referred to as cysts.
Cyst
A large, soft, inflamed sac -like lesion that is located deep within the skin. Cysts are filled with fluid or a semi-fluid that consists of white blood cells, dead skin cells, and bacteria.
Treating Acne
The main objectives in treating acne are to reduce oil production, bacteria, inflammation and to alter keritinization (build up of skin cells). The exact treatment will depend largely on the degree of acne being treated. The treatment for acne will depend on the grade or severity of the condition.
Keratinization
Dead skin cells called are shed into the follicle and are then carried to the skins surface and are sloughed off. Sebum (oil) can cause the skin cells to become cohesive or sticky and then they clump up in what is known as cohesion. The follicle will become blocked when skin cells are not shed properly, this is why treatments that exfoliate dead skin cells and increase skin cell turn over are recommended for acne. The goal is to exfoliate dead skin cells and prevent and break up existing cohesion “clump of skin cells”.
– Microdermabrasion: Not recommended for “active” moderate to severe acne
– Chemical Peels
– Tretinoin ( Retin-A)
– Topical AHA/ BHA: Retinols/ Vitamin A, Glycolic Acid, Salicilic Acid
– Azelaic Acid, also has an antimicrobial effect
Sebum (oil) production
Those prone to acne often produce excessive amounts of sebum (oil). When there is an increase in Androgen hormones such as testosterone, the oil glands become larger and produce more sebum (oil)
– Oral contraceptives can help to reduce the effects androgen hormones in women thus reducing oil
-Isotretinoin (Accutane)
– Acne laser treatments
– Blue Light RF: When Blue light is combined with RF energy it causes sebaceous gland atrophy (shrinks the oil gland) which decreases oil production.
– PDT Photodynamic Therapy With Levulan ALA: When used with IPL will also treat hyper-pigmentation, rosacea, broken blood vessels
Bacteria
Some bacteria is normally present on the skin, including P. acne bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes). There is an increased level of bacteria in acne. Bacteria thrives in an eviroment that is deprived of oxygen so products that intoduce oxygen into the skin work to fight bacteria, this includes benzoyl peroxide. The use of oral antibiotics for acne is usually only recomended for short term use because the body can become tolerant to antibiotics. It is also believed that long term use of oral antibiotics contributes to acne cysts.
– Oral Antibiotics: Tetracycline, Minocycline
– Topical Antibiotics: Tetracycline, Erythromycin, Clindamycin
– Benzoyl Peroxide
– Blue Light Therapy
– High Frequency ( not as effective as blue light, often used after acne extractions)
Inflammation
The P. acne bacteria releases lipase which converts the lipids in the sebum (oil) in to free fatty acids which irritant the skin and cause inflammation. Reducing bacteria will in turn reduce inflammation, because the bacteria contributes to the free fatty acids that irritate skin.
– Salicylic Acid: Topical salicylic acid treats acne by reducing swelling and redness
– Nicomide: A member of the Vitamin B family, also used for rosacea. Topical version available over the counter.
– Zink Oxide: Look for sunblock and mineral makeup with zinc oxide, it has anti-inflammatory properties in addition to being a physical UVA/ UVB
- Croyo-Slushy: anti-bacterial, anti-inflamatory and mild exfoliation properties
Acne Scars
“It is easier to stay out of trouble than get out” Mark Twain
Corecting acne scars can be very challanging and expensive, you are always better off treating and controlling acne thus preventing acne scars. Acne cysts are most likely to cause scars, a diluted corticosteroid injection can be used to reduce cysts and inflammation.
Post Inflammatory Hyper-pigmentation (PIH) is name used for the dark spots left by acne or other skin lesions. The skin responds to inflammation by stimulating the melanocyte to over produce pigment cells. PIH can be prevented, treated and controlled with the use of topical products like hydroquinone and tretinoin. Topical Hydroquinone 4% is a prescription strength cream used to “suppress” the melanocyte which can help to prevent PIH and treat existing hyper pigmentation.
Depressed and ice pick scars are usually treated with a “leveling treatment” such as laser resurfacing or a deep chemical peel like the Obagi Blue Peel. Injectable fillers are also used to plump skin and reduce acne scars. Combining a leveling treatment with fillers will provide better results. As the skin ages, the loss of elasticity and collagen will cause acne scars to look worse. Anti-aging treatments and good sun protection can help slow this process. A facelift will also improve the appearance of acne scars because it tightens the skin.
Before you start an acne treatment
Many of the treatments and products mentioned in this post are prescription strength drugs or medical treatments. There are contraindications for some acne treatments, so it is important to consult with your doctor or skin health professional before starting an acne treatment program. Woman that are pregnant or nursing need to consult with their doctor before using ANY acne treatments, as many are not approved for use in pregnant or nursing women. The content provide in this post is intended to be informative and does not replace medical or professional treatment.
Thank you for visiting Best of Both Worlds Az
You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and on our blog site
www.bestofbothworldsaz.com
®© All Rights Reserved.
IS Clinical is one of my favorite skin care lines and that is saying a lot. Anybody who knows me will tell you that I am a very hard sale. It takes a lot to impress me. I am not interested in perfumes, fancy packaging or gimicks. There are so many skin care products on the market, making a wise choice can be a challenge even for skin profesionals. It seems like every week there is another represenative from some skin care company trying to get us to sell their products. Although most of these products are not bad, I only want the best for my clients. When IS Clinical first came out, their rep came to the office I was working in at the time and I almost sent her away. Luckily, she caught my attention with Active Serum. An amazing serum that is packed full of high quality active ingrediants. Active Serum is one of my favorite skin products of all time, and every one else loves it too. This summer I started using White Lightning from IS Clinical and I LOVE IT! IS Clinical has several great products, but I want to share our top five favorites.
Active Serum
Active Serum is defiantly a must have! This product is appropriate for most skin types and can be incorporated into just about any skin care program. Active serum is perfect for treating acne, hyper pigmentation and anti-aging. The ingredients are designed to exfoliate the skin with out any dryness or peeling. If you don’t have this, GET IT!
Ingredients: Sugar Cane Extract (a source of Glycolic Acid), Bilberry Extract (a source of Lactic Acid), Willow Bark Extract (a source of Salicylic Acid), Arbutin, Mushroom Extract (a source of Kojic Acid), Menthol.
White Lightening
This formula is designed with lightening agents that work to reduce hyper pigmentation and brighten skin. They also added powerful antioxidant and moisturizers. White Lightening also comes in a serum that contains exfoliating agents. White lightening can be used to enhance the effects of hydroquinone products like Obagi Clear or used as an alternative when hydroquinone is not appropriate.
Pro-Heal Serum Advance+
Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ is a topical vitamin healing formula featuring L-Ascorbic acid 15% , Vitamin E, Vitamin A, and olive leaf extract. It is ideal for most skin types including rosacea and acne. Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ reduces inflammation and can also be used to sooth contact dermatitis, insect bites and sunburns.
Youth Eye Complex
This eye cream has a lot to offer. Mild exfoliating agents to stimulate skin cell turn over, growth factors and antioxidants. The top ingredient in this powerful eye cream is Hyaluronic Acid which binds to water for hydration and helps to plump wrinkles.
[ Read more about youth complex products]
Cleansing Complex
An extremely versatile cleanser, appropriate for all skin types. It is gentle enough for sensitive or rosacea skin and powerful enough for oily and acne prone skin. Cleansing Complex contains Sugar Cane Extract (a source of Glycolic Acid), Willow Bark Extract (a source of Salicylic Acid), Alpha Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Retinol (Vitamin A) and Chamomile. I also love that Cleansing Complex doesn’t have any sulfates. The only thing that could make this cleanser better is a Clarisonic Cleansing Brush.
We also love the Is Clinical Innovative Facial also known as the Red Carpet facial or the Fire and Ice facial!
Thank you for visiting Best of Both Worlds Az
You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and on our blog site
www.bestofbothworldsaz.com
®© All Rights Reserved.
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