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Archive for the ‘Skin Care Products’ Category

chlorophyll
Chlorophyll is a pigment found in green plants, which is vital for photosynthesis allowing plants to absorb energy from light. Chlorophyll, or more specifically the natural derivative, Sodium Copper Chlorophyllin offers many promising skin benefits.

Sodium Chlorophyllin Copper Complex can be found in topical enzymatic medications used for healing-debriding wounds. Chlorophyllin Copper Complex Sodium, expedites the healing of wounds by slowing the growth of certain bacteria on the skin, controls local inflammation and aids in the promotion of healthy granulations. It works to inhibit the inflammatory properties of protein degradation products in the wound, including the products of enzymatic digestion.

Hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring in the human body. It has the ability to bind to and hold about a thousand times it’s weight in water. In the dermal layers of the skin it provides moisture, plumpness, firmness and suppleness to the skin. With age, the production of hyaluronic acid in the skin declines progressively. Hyaluronic acid is degraded by the natural occuring enzyme, hyaluronidase. Sodium copper chlorophyllin has been shown to inhibit hyaluronidase and thus inhibit the breakdown of hyaluronic acid.

Phytochromatic MD® is a unique Sodium copper chlorophyllin in a liposomal complex, that has been shown to effectively penetrate skin. Skin care products containing Phytochromatic MD™ Complex have been shown to have anti-aging, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reduce redness, inhibit the breakdown of hyaluronic acid in the skin, and aid in improved wound healing. Phytochromatic MD® is currently found exclusively in MD Rejuvena skin care products.

chlorophyll 2

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Read MoreAugust 4, 2016 10:21 pm - Posted by Kristy

Rosie-Huntington-Whiteley-7

Copper Tripeptide-1 has been shown to play a role in stimulating the production of collagen, aid in wound healing and tissue remodeling. It also has Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti Microbial and Anti-Tumor Effects.

What is Copper Tripeptide-1

Copper Tripeptide-1 is naturally occurring in the body, it is composed of the amino acids Glycyl-histidyl-lysine, which spontaneously binds to copper, also known as GHK-CU. Copper Tripeptide-1 has many benefits within the human body, however levels decrease with age. Given the benefits that it has for renewing, repairing and protecting the skin, it makes sense that this would be used in cosmeceutical skin care products.

Anti-Aging

Copper Tripeptide-1 is used topically for anti-aging and firming of the skin. As we age our skin becomes progressively thinner, this is due in part to the declining production of collagen in the dermis and keratinocytes in the epidermis. As we age the skins ability to protect and repair itself also declines and this contributes to the degradation or breakdown of collagen. Copper Tripeptide-1 plays a role in stimulating collagen production and in the proliferation of keratinocytes. This is very promising for anti-aging skin care

Wound Healing and Tissue Remodeling

Copper Tripeptide-1 is seen to play a role in accelerating wound healing and improved tissue remodeling. Studies done on diabetic wounds, showed that wounds healed up to three times faster and had a lower incidence of infection, in the presence of Copper Tripeptide-1. This is relevant to anti-aging, because as we age the levels of GHK-CU decrease, which can affect the ability for skin to repair and renew it’s self. Further more, many of the treatments used to improve skin appearance, take advantage of the skins wound healing ability to increase the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. The more effective the skins wound healing ability is, the more effective the treatment may be.

Anti-Tumor and Protective Ability

Radiation from sun exposure and cancer treatments have damaging effects on DNA and induce aging. Copper Tri-petide-1 (GHK-CU) helps to protect DNA from these damaging effects. Tumor cell lines died in the presence of Copper Tri-peptide, however healthy cell lines were protected. Skin fibroblasts, are “master cells” responsible for producing collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. Fibroblast exposed to radiation have been shown to restore their function when in the presence of (GHK-CU).

Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Microbial Effects

Intrinsic antioxidants, are antioxidants that the body makes, they can not be obtained with diet. With age, the production of these intrinsic antioxidants declines. Some of these intrinsic antioxidants are induced by Copper Tripeptide-1. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects during wound healing and tissue remodeling stages.

Skin Care Products with Copper Tripeptide-1

Topical products with Copper Tripeptide-1 may be useful for post procedure skin care to enhance results. They definitely look to be a promising as part of an anti-aging skin care regimen, especially when used with other power house products such as retinoids, anti-oxidants and most importantly broad spectrum sun protection.

Innovative Skin Care has added Copper Tripeptide-1 to many of their iS Clinical line of skin care products, including the most recent “Youth Serum” which is quickly becoming an A-list favorite. It is also found in Super Serum Advance +, Reparative Moisture Emulsion, Youth Intensive Cream, Youth Complex and Youth Eye Complex.

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Read MoreSeptember 24, 2015 5:09 pm - Posted by Kristy

non-hydroquinone products

There are countless skin care products available to treat skin discolorations known as “hyperpigmentation”, such as brown spots and melasma. There is also just as much confusion and misinformation, surrounding topical Hydroquinone and Non- Hydroquinone products. The fact is they are both necessary, as each have a place in correcting and maintaing pigment irregularities.

I am a proponent for Hydroquinone and for good reason, when used correctly it is arguably the most effective topical for treating hyperpigmentation. I am also a proponent for Non-Hydroquinone skin brighteners, because I do not support using Hydroquinone indefinitely without pulsing on and off.

About Hyperpigmentation

If you understand how hyper pigmentation occurs, you are better able to understand how to treat it. The process of producing pigment (melanogenesis) is complex, with many process, so I am giving the short version. When the skin has hyperpigmentation, it means that, there are melanocytes that are over producing melanin (pigment) AND that those pigment cells are not being evenly distributed to the skin cells called keratinocytes.

Something must first, trigger the increase of tyrosinase activity, this can be sun exposure, hormones or inflammation. Tyrosinase is an enzyme in the skin that controls the production of melanin. One of the main goals in treating hyperpigmentation is to inhibit the tyrosinase, so that it will not trigger the overproduction of melanin (pigment). Products that aim to do this use ingredients that we call “tyrosinase inhibitors”. Hydroquinone is a strong tyrosinase inhibitor, however there are also non-hydroqinone tyrosinase inhibitors that are effective.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a strong tyrosinase inhibitors and very effective at treating hyper pigmentation. There is concern, however that with extended use the skin may become resistant to the effects. This is why it is important to use hydroquinone under professional guidance. The general idea is to maximize correction, before you build resistance. Many dermatologists and skincare professionals are now recommending pulsing on and off hydroquinone. If you are using or plan on using hydroquionone products, I recommend you read “Hydroquinone: What you need to know, to maximize it’s benefits and prevent resistance”.

Non-Hydroquinone Brighteners

When you are pulsing off hydroquinone, you may want to use a non-hydroquinone skin brighter. Look for a brightener with tyrosinase inhibitors. Ideally, non-hydroquinone skin brighteners should be formulated with a combination of ingredients that will have an effect on the various stages of melanogensis (the formation of pigments). Antioxidants and exfoliants play a role in melanogensis and should be part of a skin care regimen, along with a tyrosinase inhibitor. I am including a short list of some commonly used ingredients in Non-hydroquinone brighteners.

Non-Hydroquinone Lighting/ Brighting Ingredients
Kojic Acid
Arbutin (Bearberry Extract)
Azelaic Acid
Licorice Root Extract
Mulberry Extract
Polyphenols
Hydroxyphenoxy Propionic Acid
Glutathione

Additional Tips

For best results begin by preparing your skin to best absorb the topical products you are using, this is done by properly cleansing and toning skin. Topical antioxidants and a broad spectrum SPF, are a MUST, because they help block the effects of “triggers”. We also recommend some type of chemical exfoliant, such as glycolic or lactic acid. These help by exfoliating melanin filled skin cells from the surface, which accumulate and cause pigment to be more dense, making it look darker. Retinoids such as tretinoin (Retina-A) work by inhibiting the transfer of pigment to skin cells, this blends pigment for even skin tone. Retinoids also work as a tyrosinase inhibitor. Finally, if you are not seeing the results you want with topical products alone, consult with a skin care provider to discuss which treatment options are best for you. Typically, we recommend chemical peels or PhotoFacials (IPL or BBL), depending on skin type and conditions being treated.

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Read MoreSeptember 12, 2015 4:30 pm - Posted by Kristy

extremozymes
For healthy and youthful skin, we want the vital structures of our skin to have the ability to survive and thrive.

Most of us are exposed to environmental stressors daily that can damage structural proteins within the skin such as collagen and elastin, as well as essential genetic DNA. This equals skin aging, with loss of elasticity, resilience, immune function and cancer resistance. Science has found in nature, a way to help protect fragile and vital structures in human skin, from extreme and daily stressors.

If you have never been to Arizona, then you probably have not seen a live Saguaro Cactus. The saguaro cactus is unique to the Arizona Sonoran Desert, as well as Sonora Mexico, and California along the Arizona and Mexico borders. The saguaro thrives in these extreme desert environments, because it is an extremophile that loves very dry, hot climates.

Extremozymes are protective enzymes derived from extremophiles, which are organisms that thrive in extreme environments, that would be detrimental to most life on earth. Extreme environments include places with extreme tempetures, PH or altitude. Examples are the deepest, dark parts of the ocean, Antartica or a dry desert. These extreme environments would otherwise denature typical enzymes, but extremophiles develop protective enzymes (extremozymes) that cushion and protect vital structures, kind of like bubble wrap. Many Extremozymes assist these organisms in not only protecting, but repairing DNA as it is damaged by environmental factors.

Extremozymes protect skin, by cushioning and protecting vital structures such as DNA like a bubble wrap. Extremozymes

INNOVATIVE SKINCARE®’s Extremozyme® products utilize the survival advantages from these extremophilic organisms to protect and preserve skin from environmental damage and aging by combating moisture loss, dehydration, radiation, heat, cold, and free radical damage. We like iS Clinical “Youth Serum” and “Reparative Moisture Emulsion” which are both formulated with Extremozymes. Your skin care survival kit should also include an antioxidant serum and broad spectrum SPF. We recommend starting a skin care regimen with extremozymes, topical antioxidants and sunblock in your 20’s, because aging starts sooner than you think.

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Read MoreSeptember 7, 2015 9:18 pm - Posted by Kristy

skin-consultation

I can not tell you how many times I have been in the mall or a beauty store and heard a sales person give a shopper horrible advice on skin care. To the defense of the sales person, they probably are unaware they are giving poor advice, they are likely not trained skin professionals. Often the product they recommend cost just as much, if not more than the more effective cosmeceutical products used by skin professionals.

An in-depth consultation with an licensed Esthetician should be your first step to addressing aesthetic skin concerns such as aging. Even if you are just looking for professional advise on appropriate skin care to maintain your skin, a skin consultation is needed. Standing in the front office and talking to the office staff or even an Esthetician between appointments, does not cut it. Not everyone is qualified to give skin care advice, even the Esthetician can not give you the attention you need in 5 minutes. A full consultation is always the best way to go. We have put together a list of tips to help you get the most out of your skin consultation.

Select your Esthetician

An Esthetician is a skin care specialist, that has been educated and trained on skin health and beauty. They do not diagnose or treat medical skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, allergies or skin cancers. An Esthetician may work in a day spa, salon, med-spa or within a medical practice such as dermatology or plastic surgery. When selecting an Esthetician, be sure to ask about experience and training. Some Estheticians may have additional training or certifications to work in medical aesthetics. You should look for an Esthetician that fits your personal goals.

Be Prepared to Discuss Your Concerns

If you can help your Esthetician understand what you see, and what concerns you most, then they can better help you. We recommend you make a list of concerns and what you hope to improve. It may help to look in a mirror while creating your list. If you simply want to maintain your skin, we can help with that too. The more clear you are about your concerns, the more likely they will be addressed. You may have skin issues or signs of aging that do not bother you, your Esthetician does not want to offend you by suggesting that you improve something that you are content with. Estheticians understands that most people have a budget and we want to respect your money, so be sure to communicate the priority of your concerns.

What to consider:
Pigmentation Concerns Is your skin color even or do you notice irregular pigmentation such as Melasma, dark patches, freckles, age-spots, sun spots or pigmented scars.

Acne / clogged pores Do you have any cysts, pimples, black heads, white heads or clogged pores. Do breakouts correlate with menstral cyle or hair removal. How often do you break out.

Texture Is your skin smooth and even or does it feel rough or flakey. Does your skin look creapy, have fine lines or scars that are raised or depressed.

Vascular Issues Do you have Rosacea, broken capillaries, diffused redness or red spots. Do you flush easily?

Oil and Moisture Is your skin normal, oily, shiny, dry, tight and dry?

Aging concerns Do you have any lines, wrinkles, folds? Is your skin that lax or thinning. Is your facial volume plump and cohesive or do you see separation of the fat pads, hollowness of the face or under eyes, flat cheeks, or jowls? Do you have droopy or hooded brows?

Hair Even if you are only seeking skin treatments, let your Esthetician know if you experience unwanted hair, specifically facial hair and how you address it. Hair growth and hair removal methods may provide clues to skin issues. ( This applies to men and women) Some hair removal methods my be contraindicated to potential treatments or products. Estheticians specialize in hair removal methods, so they can provide you with or suggest the most appropriate hair removal methods.

Tell us what products you are using

Be prepared to talk to your Esthetician about the skin care products you have used in the past and are currently using. When filling out your consultation form, it is not enough to list a brand name or only including a couple products. We need a detailed list of the products you are using and it is even better if you bring the products in with you, so that we can read the ingredient list.

Not all skin care products or ingredients play well together, for example products with Benzoyl Peroxide can oxidize your topical antioxidants. Acne and anti-aging products usually active ingredients and if we mix too many, the skin may become very irritated. You may already be using something similar to what we would recommend and we do not want you to purchase something, if you already have it or something like it. Your Esthetician will try to work with your current products, when possible. Sometimes, however it may be necessary to start from scratch.

Tell us what you have done already

Think back to any cosmetic procedures or skin care treatments you may have had and make a list. Your Esthetician will need to know what procedures / treatments you have done. Some things should not be repeated too soon, while others my be contraindicated to each other. For example if you have had deep (full coverage) resurfacing procedures, your Esthetician will want to know because they can not be repeated too frequently. If you have recently had certain injectables, you may need to wait before having some procedures. If you have ever had any silicone injections or have you been on accutane, you need to alert your Esthetician.

Tell your Esthetician what you liked or did not like about the things that you have already done. If you had a good experience with something, that will provides a clue to how you respond to treatment. If you feel something did not work or you had a bad experience, we do not want to repeat that for you. Sometimes, your Esthetician may want to spend some time educating you on why you had that experience. Never assume anything is irrelevant.

Tell us a little more about you

Your Esthetician will want to know a little about your medical background and medications. Some medications may increase chance of bruising or cause photosensitivity. Do not forget to list any supplements or herbal treatments you may use. Remember to list any allergies, including food allergies, as some skin care products contain natural ingredients like pumpkin, papaya and pineapple. Medical conditions can effect how your bodies wound healing ability and how your skin responds to treatment. When listing medical conditions be sure to include any hormone therapy.

Your lifestyle and habits are important too. How do you exercise, are you on a restrictive diet, do you smoke, drink or use any other substance. We are not here to judge you, we need to take into consideration the variables that may influence how you will respond to treatment. If you have any special scheduling concerns, be sure to discuss them during your consultation.

Be clear on expectations

As you are discussing treatment options, be sure to clarify what you should expect. Often clients do not understand that they should expect some reaction with treatment or even some skin care products. Be sure you have an idea of what is normal and when you should be concerned. If you are having a treatment that involves any “down time”, your Esthetician will give you an idea of how long it will take to recover. Keep in mind, that this is just an estimated time frame. There are far too many variables that effect healing, it is impossible to predict exactly. It is also relative to what you consider to be “down time” and when it comes to your appearance being acceptable to return to work or social activities, everyone has different standards.

Before scheduling treatments, be sure you understand what typical results are. Often clients hear what they want to believe, expecting too much. Its tempting to hope that even if your Esthetician recommends a series of treatments, that you will be the exception. Sometimes we convince ourself that a non-surgical treatment will deliver a surgical result. We want to believe that one treatment can replace the need for others or that what we do at home isn’t that important. Try to keep your expectations realistic.

Consultation Fee

Be sure to find out about your consultation fee, often the consultation fee may be credited toward your first treatment. As a courtesy, many Estheticians offer a free consultation. This likely means they are not getting paid, so if you can not make your appointment, call to cancel or reschedule as soon as possible. A minimum of 48 hours prior to scheduled appointment is standard, this allows time to fill the space.

Thank you for visiting Best of Both Worlds Az
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www.bestofbothworldsaz.com

®© All Rights Reserved.

Read MoreJuly 19, 2015 10:55 pm - Posted by Kristy

hydroquinone, skin lightener

In the world of medical aesthetics, hydroquinone is often a necessary part of skin care. It is the gold standard for treating dark skin irregularities known as hyperpigmentation. As effective as it is, there is a rising concern regarding the number of people who are using hydroquinone incorrectly, without on going professional guidance. Many of those who are using hydroquinone do not understand the risk of hydroquinone resistance or how to properly use it, as to enhance efficacy. It is important to use hydroquinone in a way to maximize it’s benefit, before the skin builds a resistance and how to properly transition off, to reduce incidence of rebound hyper pigmentation. Always seek a professional guidance before starting or continuing hydroquinone use. It should be used only under the strict supervision of a professional.

Why do we need Hydroquinone?

Hydroquinone is the single most effective topical ingredient for treating skin discolorations. Skin discolorations can include sun spots, Melasma and Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH), pigmented acne scars. When the skin is inflamed it can respond by over producing melanin, this inflammation can come from acne, injury, surgery or aesthetic procedures such as laser or chemical peels. UV exposure and hormones can also induce skin discolorations. In the world of medical aesthetics we are really dependent on the ability of hydroquinone to quickly correct hyper pigmentation. There are non-hydroquinone skin brighteners that are very good products, however they are not as effective as hydroquinone. That does not mean that botanical lighteners do not have a place, as you will learn, both hydroquinone and non-hydroquinone brighteners are important.

Resistance to Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone works by inhibiting tyrosinase, which is necessary for melanin production. It is believed that with extended hydroquinone use, the skin will compensate by increasing tyrosinase. This would causes the skin to become resistant to the effects of hydroquinone. When the skin becomes resistant to the effects of hydroquinone it will quit improving the hyper pigmentation. To prevent building resistance, it is not recommended to continue use for extended periods of time with out cycling off. It is usually recommended to cycle off hydroquinone after about 4-6 months. If needed, hydroquinone may be resumed after about 2 months. If you stop hydroquinone “cold turkey”, there is a risk of rebound pigmentation. To prevent rebound pigmentation, it is generally recommended to transition your skin off. While transitioning off and breaking from hydroquinone, continued stimulation with a retinoid is beneficial. When it is time to transition off your hydroquinone, you may begin to incorporate a non-hydroquinone skin brightener. There are several professional products that may be recommended. Exact regimens will vary individually, depending on skin condition and any skin treatments, such as laser treatments or chemical peels, that are planned. Do not attempt to cycle off hydroquinone without professional guidance!

Maximize Hydroquinone Effectiveness

When using hydroquinone to treat hyper pigmentation, the goal is to correct the condition before the skin builds resistance. In order to maximize effectiveness, we need to use a high quality hydroquinone product in the appropriate dosage, along with products that optimize penetration, assist in correction and protect from exacerbating factors.

We want to use enough of hydroquinone to reach correction, so a skin care professional needs to show you how to measure your hydroquinone and give you a time frame that you should expect to run out of product. Using hydroquinone every morning and night is a common protocol for treating facial skin.

We want the hydroquinone to have optimal ability to penetrate and work. Prepare the skin by cleansing with an appropriate cleanser. This would exclude anything that does not sufficiently clean the skin or leaves any occlusive film, this could inhibit product penetration. For this reason, I generally do not recommend cleansers like CeraVe or Cetaphil. Anything that is too harsh or active, should also be avoided, as we do not want to induce any unnecessary inflammation or irritation. After cleansing, an appropriate toner should be used, this will restore the skins PH balance after cleansing, preparing it for corrective skin care products. (astringent is not toner). Hydroquinone should be applied after toner, unless you have been instructed to use a Vitamin-C serum or other corrective serums. Always, confirm with your Esthetician or provider, the order your products should be applied.

When Hydroquinone is used with a mild exfoliant and Tretinoin (Retin-A), the pigment will be more evenly distributed. The goal is not just to suppress the production melanin (pigment), it is to have even distribution of the pigment. When the skin has hyper pigmentation, the melanocytes are not functioning properly. Not only is there an over production of melanin, but the pigment is not being evenly distributed to skin cells called keratinocytes. When Hydroquinone is used with Tretinoin, it works to evenly distribute the pigment. A mild chemical exfoliant will enhance the process by increasing the skin cell turnover. It is important that the exfoliant be appropriate to your skin type and personal skin care regimen, to reduce risk of any unnecessary inflammation. Here is the icing on the cake, tretinoin will also treat acne, increase collagen production in the dermis, as well as glycosaminoglycans such as Hyaluronic acid that bind to water and improve skin moisture. There is also evidence that tretinoin may positively effect gene expression in the skin. – Yes, please! I want all of that.

Sun protection is important for several reasons. 1) UV exposure stimulates the production of melanin, while hydroquinone is working to suppress it. It literally, defeats the purpose of using hydroquinone, if you do not have proper sun protection. 2) Hydroquinone, tretinoin and exfoliants can all cause photosensitivity of the skin. 3) Heat, including heat from the sun dilates capillaries in the skin and induces inflammation, which can exacerbated pigmentation problems. 4) UV exposure causes skin discolorations, free radical damage and breaks down collagen and elastin.5) UV rays damage DNA and causes skin cancer, and melanoma can be life threatening.

Your sunscreen should be an SPF 30 or higher and should have zinc oxide. Zinc Oxide can help by blocking some of the UV induced heat, that contributes to inflammation and exacerbates hyper pigmentation. Zinc also provides broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays without the irritation occasionally seen with chemical sunscreens. Professional zinc products are more elegant and will look better on the skin. Using a moisturizer, BB Cream or cosmetic with an added SPF, is not enough. It is important to have an actual sunscreen, with high broad spectrum coverage. Sunscreen should go on after any moisturizer, it is the last thing you put on, but before makeup. Sunscreen needs to be used EVERY day!

Topical antioxidants are useful for many reasons, but in regards to skin discolorations we especially like topical Vitamin-C. First, Vitamin-C reduces oxidized dopaquinone, which helps further brighten the skin. Perhaps, more importantly, Vitamin C helps to reduce inflammation in the skin that can cause or exacerbate hyper pigmentation. Some antioxidants, including Vitamin-C also have photo-protectant ability, enhancing the effectiveness of sunscreen. They works by neutralizing the UV rays, rather than reflecting or absorbing UV rays like a sunscreen, so use them together to maximize your protection. We recommend using an l-ascorbic acid form of vitamin c, in serum form. A quality l-ascorbic acid, needs to be packaged in a glass bottle with a glass dropper, the bottle should be dark to reduce oxidation of the product.

Not all skin care products play well together and there are some skin care products that may be contraindicated to your personal skin care regimen. For example, you should not use any product that contains benzoyal peroxide with products that can oxidize, such as Hydroquinone and Vitamin-C Serums. Always inform your Esthetician or skin care provider of the products you are using, and do not add anything new without having it approved first.

Thank you for visiting Best of Both Worlds Az
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®© All Rights Reserved.

Read MoreMay 19, 2015 11:13 pm - Posted by Kristy

Youth Serum by iS Clinical
A serum that claims to give you the “best of both worlds”, how perfect is that?! Youth Serum is designed to provide an instant smoothing and tightening effect, and long term wrinkle reduction (via collagen production). Could this Youth Serum be the fountain of youth we are all searching for?

I think expecting any single skin care product to be “THE” fountain of youth, may just be setting you up for disappointment. I believe that the fountain of youth is a full comprehensive approach to anti-aging, which would include skin care products along with aesthetic treatments, healthy lifestyle, diet, excersise and what ever fits your personal beliefs towards a healthy mind and spirit. With that said, I think it is fair to say that Youth Serum is one of those things that will add to our fountain youth.

This serum is appropriate for all skin types, espesially when anti-aging is a concern. As someone who works in medical esthetics, I am very interested in the role this product plays in wound healing, tissue remodeling as well as it’s anti-tumor effect and ability to protect DNA from the damaging effects of radiation. I think this product would be very beneficial for those with thin or impaired skin that may have reduced wound healing ability due to medical conditions or treatments.

[The Top 5 IS Clinical Skin Products We Love!]

This serum uses intelligent proteins that target damaged sites, strengthen dermal structure, to smooth fine lines and firm skin. YOUTH SERUM’s safe, bio-identical growth factors gradually rebuild lost collagen to reduce fine lines and wrinkles long-term. The patented Extremozyme® technology, combined with a powerful blend of antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, E, and centella asiatica, encourage cellular health, provide UV photoprotection, and prevent environmental damage. The result is a more youthful, vibrant, and resilient complexion.

Benefits

• Clinically proven to increase collagen synthesis
• Contains safe growth factors that shield skin from cancer development, improve skin firmness and elasticity
• Helps prevent DNA damage (Extremozyme technology)
• Excellent for use under makeup
• Paraben-free

Key Ingrediants

Copper Tripeptide-1 Growth Factor – Copper Tripeptide-1 sequence is found naturally in your bodies collagen, and it stimulates the synthesis of new collagen. This is a bioidentical growth factor, which means that your body recognizes it and it can be put to use immediately. This growth factor has been shown to prevent tumors, helping to protect skin from cancer development. It stimulates collagen production, which restores the skin’s structure and smoothes wrinkles over time.

Extremozymes – Think of them like “extreme” enzymes, these enzymes are harvested organisms that are able to withstand extreme conditions.These enzymes work to nuture skin and prevent free radical damage with powerful antioxidants. Clinically proven to repair and protect fragile proteins and DNA components.

Intelligent Peptides & Proteins – Primarily pseudoaltermonas ferment extract, which is a glycoprotien from the Antarctic Sea. Clinically proven to adhear to damaged sites, providing targeted regeneration.

Active Algae Extracts – A potent intertidal seaweed extract, that is a rich source of a rare amino acid found only in collagen – which triggers the epidermis to repair collagen loss.

Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, & Madecassic Acid Sourced from Centella Asiatica – Efficacious antioxidants that stimulate collagen synthesis and improve microcirculation, capillary flow and vascular tone, to promote wound healing and reduction of scar tissue.

Vitamin A, C & E Blend – Powerful vitamin antioxidant blend.

Thank you for visiting Best of Both Worlds Az
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www.bestofbothworldsaz.com

®© All Rights Reserved.

Read MoreFebruary 26, 2015 12:22 am - Posted by Kristy

glypro-exfoliating-facial-cleanser
Skin Medica’s new GlyPro ia a glycolic acid cleanser that uses eco-friendly microbeads to give you the combined benefits of chemical and manual exfoliation. This encourages skin cell turnover while reducing the look of premature aging. It will also help to refine pore size, smooth and brighten skin, and unclog pores.

APPROPRIATE FOR: All skin types
If you like facial scrubs or cleansers with scrubbing microbeads you will like this cleanser. If you like other glycolic product lines, such as Vivite, MD forte or JanMarini’s Bioglycolic, this will likely be a favorite.
PURPOSE: Sloughs off the top layer of skin to reveal fresh, new skin. Proper deep cleansing improves efficacy of other skin care products.
WHEN TO APPLY: Use 2 – 3 times a week, in the morning and in the evening as tolerated. Alternate GlyPro with your regular cleanser. We do not recommend using this cleanser to remove I make-up.
WHERE TO APPLY: Evenly onto face (neck and chest if desired)
HOW TO APPLY: Moisten skin with lukewarm water. Apply a small amount to fingertips, add a little water and gently massage into face (neck and chest if desired). Rinse thoroughly with warm water. After cleansing and gently patting skin dry, apply other treatment products if you are using them, followed by moisturizer and sunscreen (a.m. only)

Key Ingredients & Benefits

Glycolic Acid → an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and helps support natural skin turnover for smoother-looking, softer skin
Eco-friendly Microbeads → an exfoliant that helps slough off the top layer of skin
Salicylic Acid → a beta-hydroxy acid that pairs with glycolic acid for more complete skin renewal
Olive Leaf Extract → a highly active antioxidant and soothing agent; polyphenols help improve skin hydration

Thank you for visiting Best of Both Worlds Az
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www.bestofbothworldsaz.com

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Read MoreJanuary 5, 2015 11:17 pm - Posted by Kristy


Summer time heat and sun can contribute to common skin concerns such as skin discolorations, sun damage, free radical damage, heat induced inflammation, acne, premature aging and skin cancer. With the appropriate skin care products you can prevent some of this damage while still enjoying a little fun in the sun.

Facial Cleanser

I have always referred to “summer as acne season”. It is hot and everyone is sweating, this can contribute to an increase in clogged pores and breakouts. First of all, you need an actual facial cleanser. Facial wipes, makeup remover and shower gel, do not count as a facial cleanser. In the summer I recommend a foaming cleanser, if you have dry skin use a gentle foaming cleanser. It is also good to incorporate an exfoliating cleanser with active ingredients such as glycolic or salicylic acid with exfoliating granules that are not too abrasive. I usually recommend using an active cleanser at night and your basic foaming cleanser in the morning. Some active cleansers are stronger than others, so be sure to consult with your Esthetician for recommendations on which product is best for you and how often you should use it.

Exfoliating Cleansers We Like : AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser or GlyPro Exfoliating Cleanser by Skin Medica, Offects Exfoliating Cleanser by ZO, BioGlycolic Rusurfacing Body Scrub by Jan Marini.

Daytime Antioxidant with Vitamin C

Sun exposure and pollution cause oxidative stress on skin. Oxidative stress can directly damage cell membranes, proteins, DNA as well as turning on the cellular and molecular mechanisms that accelerate aging. This means a break down of collagen, less collagen production and increased inflammation. Use topical antioxidants during the day to help combat the many free radicles we encounter during the day and reduce inflammation in the skin, which can result from heat and sun exposure .

Some antioxidants such as vitamin-C, have photo-protectants abilities and are believed to enhance the effectiveness of sunscreen. A photoprotectant works by neutralizing the UV rays, rather than reflecting or absorbing UV rays like a sunscreen, so use them together to maximize your protection.

[ Topical Antioxidants ]

Nighttime Antioxidant with Resveratrol

Most topical antioxidants are used during the day, however resveratrol is best used at night. Resveratrol has a dual antioxidant capacity. This means that not only does resveratrol scavenge free radicals from the environment, it also works to increase the production of the bodies own “endogenous” antioxidants. The depletion of naturally occurring (endogenous) antioxidants contributes to aging. Resveratrol preserves collagen, so it helps to reduce “thinning” of the skin. It is important to know that resveratrol is degraded by UV rays, so it must be used at night. Additional benefits include:
– Reduce skin inflammation
– Helps with skin discoloration (tyrosinase inhibitor)
– Inhibits non-melanoma skin cancer formation, when applied topically
– Positive effect on extrinsic and intrinsic skin aging
– Works synergistically with antioxidants such as vitamin E
– Increased epidermal and dermal skin density ( with topical Resveratrol BE )

[ Resveratrol: The Antioxidant Your Skin Needs Every Night ]

Pro-Niacin

Pro-Niacin delivers niacin to the skin cells and enables healing from within, helping the skin repair and protect itself from sun damage. Nia24 has a line of products that contain Pro-Niacin, including the neck and décolletage. The Nia24 Skin Strengthening Complex is a light weight daily moisturizer that contains 5% Pro-Niacin, Vitamin-A, antioxidants, ceramics and peptides.

Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

It seems pretty obvious to use a sunscreen, but choosing the best sunscreen can be confusing. You should select a product that is an SPF-30 or above, but more importantly it should be broad spectrum. Broad spectrum means it will protect skin from both UVA and UVB rays. There is currently no rating that measures UVA protection. I recommend looking for a sunscreen that contains Zinc Oxide as it is the most broad band protectant and also works to block some of the heat that can contribute to inflammation, rosacea flareups and broken capillaries.

Do not forget to protect the delicate skin around the eyes, which is highly susceptible to skin cancer. Skin Cancers on the eyelid can be difficult to detect and challenging to treat. If you find that your eyes sting or burn with your usual sunscreen, try Skin Ceuticals Physical Eye UV Defense, it is formulated for the area around the eye and will not migrate or run into your eyes. In addition to protecting the skin from the damaging effects of the sun it is also slightly moisturizing and tinted. I use this on my kids and it is easy to put on them without a fight.

The Eyelids: Highly Susceptible to Skin Cancer / Skin Cancer Foundation

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Read MoreAugust 15, 2014 1:07 pm - Posted by Kristy

The eyelids are one of the most common places for skin cancer and the first place we see the signs of aging. Skin cancer in this area is especially dangerous and hard to detect. Luckily, there are products that can protect the delicate skin around the eye.

The Concerns

The eyelids are very susceptible to skin cancer and the aging effects of UV exposure. About 10% of skin cancers occur on the eyelids, which is kind of shocking when you consider that the face/head accounts for less than 5% of the total body surface area. There are many additional concerning factors regarding skin cancers on the eyelid. There is a significant risk for tissue damage to nearby vital ocular structures and even blindness. Tumors in this area can also spread into the nasal and orbital cavities (the area behind the eye). Let not forget that the skin of the eyelid serves to protect the eye and when that skin has to be removed we are presented with a host of issues such as preventing infection and reconstruction of the eyelid is very difficult. Early detection can be challenging because these tumors tend to grow inward toward the deeper layers of the skin and bone, before they are seen on surface of the skin. The appearance of this type of cancer varies and looks different than other types of skin cancers, making detection even more difficult. Reoccurrence of skin cancer on the eyelid is among the highest. It is important to take measures to prevent skin cancer, and become an established patient of a good dermatologist before you think you need one.

As if cancer was not enough, photo-aging of the eyelid is another concern. Photo-aging is a term used to describe sun damage and premature aging caused by UV exposure. Consider that the skin is a direct reflection of health and that sun damaged skin is not healthy skin. Photo-aging goes beyond vanity, it really is about skin that is not functioning properly or at a healthy state.Sun damaged skin will have lowered immunity against infection and impaired wound healing ability. Furthermore, UV rays age skin cells, damage DNA, break down collagen, elastin and damage pigment producing melanocytes. All of this equals unhealthy skin that is thin, lax (loose), with lines wrinkles and skin discoloration. There are products and treatments that can be done to improve these issues, but it will take time, money, and a little work.

Prevent the damage and reduce risk of cancer

The first line of defense is a broad spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or more. The eyes and the skin around the eyes are sensitive to chemicals in sunscreen so you should look for a physical sunscreen, meaning the only two active ingredients are Titanium dioxide and Zinc oxide. I like Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 by Skin Ceuticals, it is a non-migrating, high protection sunscreen designed specifically for the upper and lower eyelids. This is a pure physical sunscreen that you apply like and eye cream. The formula is tinted to enhance tone, however it will nor provide coverage like a cosmetic. I like to say it’s tinted for a man. It blends right in and doesn’t settle into fine lines or make your eye area appear dry/cakey. the ceramics in it will nourish the skin, but I still recommend using your usual eye cream first then SPF.

For additional protection I recommend using a topical product with vitamin-C, every morning. While sunscreens absorb or reflect out UV radiation, antioxidants such as vitamin-C neutralize the UV rays. Photoprotective topical antioxidants work by the inhibiting the UV-induced biochemical changes that lead to photoageing and DNA mutations.

Studies show that sunglasses do help protect eyes from UV damage, however some UV light can still get to the eye area, depending on the type and style of sunglasses. Look for sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection and remember that sunglasses do not eliminate the need for sunscreen.

The Eyelids: Highly Susceptible to Skin Cancer / Skin Cancer Foundation
Thank you for visiting Best of Both Worlds Az
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Read MoreJune 8, 2014 8:15 pm - Posted by Kristy