Micro + Peel
A micro and a light to medium chemical peel can be done in the same appointment. This treatment is not best for over sensitive or thin skin. Both micro and peels exfoliate the skin, this could be too harsh and irritate some skin types. It is best to start with either one treatment or the other to see how skin responds before considering the combined treatment. The micro will happen after the cleansing in this combined treatment. It will act as our first form of exfoliation, leaving a slight pink tone to the skin, concentrating on the top layer which consists of the dead skin cells. This will physically remove these cells and allow the chemical peel to work at the deeper layers of the skin. The chemical peel will be preformed after the micro. It is common to feel the peel a bit more intensely when the micro was preformed first as the top layer of cells has been removed. However the peel should still be comfortable and can be customized for the skin. Warmth, tingling, and itching are all common sensations experienced during a peel. Since the peel is able to work deeper in the skin this can provide better results then either treatment done alone. Thick, course, and congested skin can also greatly benefit form the combined treatment allowing a deep cleanse and exfoliation when the individual […]
How Long Do Results Last After Facelift Surgery?
A facelift is designed to address common signs of the natural aging process that can affect both the face and neck. By eliminating excess skin, repositioning facial fat to address volume loss in the cheeks, and removing excess fat beneath the chin, our plastic surgeon can help patients attain a more youthful appearance. While the benefits of a facelift are clear to most women and men, many prospective patients naturally wonder how long they can expect these results to last. After a facelift, patients can enjoy smoother skin, fuller cheeks, a sleeker jawline, and reduced signs of aging in the neck. These changes can make a patient look years younger, but a facelift cannot halt the natural aging process. The results of a facelift are considered to be long-lasting, and most patients would see little benefit from having another facelift for at least 7-10 years following surgery. It is also important to keep in mind that beyond 10 years, a patient would still have a more youthful appearance than if they never had a facelift at all. To prolong the results of a facelift, Dr. Tong advises taking the necessary precautions to avoid excessive sun exposure and tobacco products. Patients should also strive to maintain a relatively stable weight. Individuals who eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and wear daily sunscreen go a long way towards keeping their skin looking […]
Microdermabrasion vs Chemical Peel
Microdermabrasion (micro) and light-medium chemical peels (peels) are both very common forms of exfoliation. It’s important to know the benefits of both before deciding what might be best for you. Both are similar in price and can be used on a range of skin types. Micro is a form of physical exfoliation. In this case that means the dead skin cells are physically removed from the skin through the use of abrasive crystals. The treatment head controls the delivery of the crystals, thus controlling the strength of the abrasion. Micro works primarily on the skin’s surface and can help to improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven pigment, and uneven skin texture. Treatment can be customized for a majority of skin types; however, due to the physical abrasion of micro it can be too harsh for some sensitive skin types. A light-medium chemical peel is a form of chemical exfoliation. The peel loosens dead skin cells allowing them to be removed. Different acids can be used and combined to treat a range of skin concerns and customized in strength for the individual. Peels not only exfoliate the surface of the skin but can help to treat fine lines, wrinkles, pigment, uneven skin texture, pour size and oil production. Peels also help to stimulate collagen in the skin. There are light chemical peels which can be used on a sensitive […]
Starting Young
As the rate of skin cancer has increased it is very important to stay educated about sun safety and begin at an early age. It is key to educate children about the importance of sun care. The goal to enforcing good sun safety habits at a young age to make them aware and protected without scaring them. Lead by example; sun protection is important for everyone. Enforce the message by partaking in the same routine you are implementing on children. Be diligent; despite the weather be sure to stick to your routine of protecting all exposed skin. Ensure all exposed skin, even commonly forgotten areas like the ears, are properly protected. Be sure to re-apply throughout the day. Continue both your and your child’s education as new developments and statistics are available. Routines may change as your child ages and they take on more responsibilities. Another habit to begin young is checking one’s skin and moles frequently for any changes and new developments. Starting these habits young will allow them to develop throughout their lifetime and set a solid foundation of healthy habits regarding sun safety. -Kaitlyn
Retinol Misconceptions
There are many misconceptions about retinol. From thinning skin, to making skin very sensitive there are a lot of misconceptions which make people hesitant to use a retinol. Retinol can benefit a wide range of skin concerns when used properly. Retinol does exfoliate the skin, and does remove the top layer of dead skin. However, this process does not thin the skin. Retinol can actually make skin more plump by stimulating new cells. The top most layer of skin cells are dead and naturally exfoliated off. As this layer gets thicker with age skin looks more dull, and a product cannot penetrate the skin as effectively. It is recommend that an SPF is worn regardless weather you are using a retinol, other exfoliation products, or no exfoliation products. Retinol is known to cause skin irritation and discomfort. When used properly retinol can be very comfortable and beneficial for the skin. When beginning a retinol you want to gradually introduce it to your routine. A skin professional can tell you how often to apply a retinol when first starting out. Typically it is a couple times a week, working up to applying it more often. It is also best to begin with a low dose of retinol and work up to higher percentages as skin becomes used to the product. If retinol is not introduced gradually chances of skin irritation and […]
When to Start a Retinol
Most people can benefit from the use of a retinol. As we age the skin’s natural exfoliation process slows. This results in dull looking skin, with a thicker layer of dead skin cells on top of the skin. It also means fewer new plump skin cells. Retinol is a key anti-aging product as it addresses both of these concerns. After age 20 skin slowly starts to slow its natural exfoliation process. By the time we are 40 our skin is taking about twice as long as it did at 20 to naturally shed these dead skin cells. This results in two times the amount of dead skin cells sitting on the surface of the skin. Most people will want to start to incorporate a retinol to their skincare routine around age 30 when looking to address and prevent aging. This isn’t to say someone younger then 30 shouldn’t use a retinol, as it can treat a range of skin concerns. Retinol will help to exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells, providing a brighter complexion and more even skin tone. It also helps to stimulate new cells to provide a more plumped skin tone, resulting in the diminished look of fine lines and wrinckles. By aiding the skin in this process it can help increase the skin’s natural exfoliation process as well as strengthen the skin. -Kaitlyn
What can Retinol Treat
Retinol is a well known product derived from vitamin A. It is known for providing an exfoliation, helps to strengthen the skin, reduce the look of pigment, and more. Retinol is most known for its anti-aging benefits. The best time to start a retinol depends on the benefits you are looking to receive. Retinol can be used to help address acne, and skin in need of an exfoliation. It helps remove the top layer of dead skin cells, and improves the skins ability to naturally exfoliate. Removing dead cells can assist in delivering fewer clogged pours, and fewer breakouts, resulting in a brighter complexion. Retinol allows for products to better penetrate the skin as there are less dead cells on top of the skin. This means anti-aging products, and products to address pigment, can work more effectively. Retinol can help lighten pre-existing pigment through exfoliation, but works best when used with lightening and pigment suppressing products. Retinol in itself is known to be a great anti-aging product by helping to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, evening skin texture and tone, and providing a more youthful complexion. It works in conjunction with other treatment products for optimal product penetration. However, it is best to start a preventative skincare routine, not rely on correction alone when addressing any skin concerns. -Kaitlyn
Physical VS Chemical Sunscreen
When it comes to sunscreen there are many options and things to consider before making your choice. One factor that should be considered is how the sunscreen is a chemical or a physical sunscreen. Depending upon individual needs would determine which would be a more ideal option as both have positive and negative aspects. Chemical sunscreen is absorbed into the skin; only once it is absorbed is when this sunscreen protects the skin. This type of SPF should be applied about 20 minutes before sun exposure to ensure skin is optimally protected. However once absorbed it is able to protect the skin for a longer amount of time as it is no just sitting on top of the skin. This is typically found in waterproof and sport sunscreens for this reason. However these chemicals that help sunscreens resist water and sweat can alter hormones in both men and women. On the other hand physical sunscreens sit on top of the skin and actively block and reflect the UV rays. Due to the fact this form of sunscreen sits on top of the skin it got known for leaving a white cast to the skin as it doesn’t absorb into the skin in the same manner. New developments in sunscreens have been able to help address the white casting of the skin to give more natural options. This also means they […]
Importance of Home Care
It takes both at home and in-office treatments to achieve your skincare goals. No matter the concerns you’re trying to address optimal results cannot be achieved solely relying on one or the other. The kinds of treatments and products chosen, and the frequency which they are required, vary depending on your individual needs. With an evaluation by a skincare professional you can receive recommendations as to how to reach your goals. As individuals can respond diffidently it may take a bit of time to find what works best for your skin. In-office treatments include facials, peels, microdermabrasion, IPL, and laser genesis are more aggressive treatments than offered home products. They are more powerful and address issues at deeper and different levels than home care does. This is also why you want to ensure the skincare specialist is properly trained and knowledgeable. While they do not require extensive downtime, you may have some limitations or follow some home care steps post-treatment. To properly address skin concerns these treatments should not be done too often as the skin needs optimal time to heal. Daily home care is the other half of the equation. Skin needs daily care in order to have proper protection and correct any concerns. Consistency is key when it comes to skin care. Be honest with yourself when starting to implement a skin care routine. Skin care routines can […]
Changing Weather, Changing Skin
Many changes are happening as summer comes to an end and fall begins. Days begin to get shorter and cooler. As our environment begins to change so does our skin, and so should your skin care routine. Fall and winter are the perfect time for treatments not suited for the summer months. Stronger exfoliation, correction, and moisture are all key components of a fall routine. As previously mentioned, not all treatments are summer friendly due to many factors. Fall and winter offer ideal conditions for these more aggressive corrective treatments. Shorter days and cooler weather reduce skin’s exposure to sun. However, it is best to have your skin evaluated before booking an appointment or changing up your home care routine. Have your skin evaluated and get a jump start on your fall routine with our Fall Special. This Fall Special features a 30 minute Mini Medspa Facial for $80.00. This service is a limited time offer including a skin evaluation and is designed to freshen up skin and address any changing needs. This service is a great introduction for anyone who doesn’t currently have a skin care routine in place. It includes an evaluation and cleansing of the face, exfoliation, extractions, treatment mask, finishing moisturizer and SPF products. Any particular skin concerns can be addressed and appropriate options for treatment and home care recommendations can be made. -Kaitlyn