New You Resolutions!

The holidays are right around the corner, and we all know what that means – New Year’s Resolutions!  Instead of making a resolution that you know will be ridiculously hard to keep, here’s a list of 10 resolutions that will be easy and beneficial for your skin and health!
1. WEAR SUNSCREEN EVERY DAY – We know, we know…we preach this every blog almost.  But that should tell you how important a daily SPF of 30 or higher is!  Many women don’t like the texture of sunscreen, but with so many new formula’s coming out, it’s easy to find one you like. Look for "nongreasy" or "sheer" on the label.  Try our private-label Topix spray zinc, or La Roche Posay’s “Shaka” Anthelios 60 Ultra-Light Fluide, available at www.skincarekorner.com.
2. TAKE OFF YOUR MAKEUP AT NIGHT- As someone who is a guilty party when it comes to night time makeup remover, this will absolutely be one of my resolutions this year! You've known since middle school that makeup can mix with skin oils and dirt to cause zits. Cosmetics can also trap skin-damaging free radicals that float in the air (think: bus exhaust) against your skin. But it always seems like such a hassle to drag yourself to the bathroom and splash water everywhere!  So what can make it easier? If you have no plans for the evening, wash you face as soon as you get home and into your comfy clothes!  Still too burdening?  Use a makeup remover towelette for easy makeup removal.
3. BOOK A YEARLY MOLE CHECK – It’s once a year, but having a mole checkup is crucial, even if you are doing monthly self exams. It could mean the difference between life and death.

4. EXFOLIATE REGULARLY – The first thing we notice as we get older is our dull complexion.  Did you know a baby’s skin replenishes itself every 14 days, but by age 30, it takes 28 days? Scrub away the dead skin with an exfoliator!  Try Vivite’s Exfoliating Facial Cleanser once or twice a week, or a daily cleanser containing glycolic acid such as Topix Glycolic 10% Cleanser, which will help your skin stay smooth and bright!  Both are available at www.skincarekorner.com.

5. CLEAN YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES - Brushes collect makeup, skin oils, and dead skin cells, making them a breeding ground for bacteria. Wash your tools twice a month with your facial cleanser or an antibacterial hand soap.  Rinse well, squeeze out excess water, and allow to dry thoroughly before using again.

Discount Botox

I love coupons.  I grew up in a house where we only bought the breakfast cereals my mother had coupons for, and I swore I would never be like that – but I guess we all become our mother sometime.  However, a coupon for your favorite Kellogg’s cereal is completely different than a group discount site (think Groupon) offering deals on Botox and other injectables.  Recently, a group discount site (who shall remain nameless) had an offer for "20 Units of Botox.” For $165.00, they were offering 20 units of Botox (about enough for one site).  Our office charges $300 a site – sounds like a pretty good deal, right?

Wrong…According to Dr. Robert Louton, “Plastic surgeons most often bring in new patients by word of mouth from previously happy patients.  Would you feel comfortable being injected by a doctor who has to advertise with a group discount site and offer such low price in order to bring patients in?

If you ever see an advertisement for this, and are starting to consider it, think about these two things: 

1. Will a doctor be in the facility? Just because a spa has a medical director doesn't mean he or she will be administering the treatment. State regulations vary, and some states don't even require a doctor to be on site, much less in the room.  A doctor should always be in the vicinity in case of an emergency.

2. If a doctor is present, is he or she a dermatologist or plastic surgeon? If not, then you may want to reconsider. Would you want your hair and nails styles managed by a plastic surgeon? Then why would you want your injected Botox to be done by your hair stylist or the women who does your facials? Plastic surgeons are specialists who understand the full range of cosmetic procedures available. They know if your issues are best solved with a syringe of Botox or Juvaderm—or if you'd be better served by a peel or some other procedure.

Bottom line – when it comes to your health and injectables, cheaper is not better.  Blair Plastic Surgery participates in Allergan’s Brilliant Distinctions Program, as well as offering an in-house special.  When a patient purchases 3 sites of Botox within one year, he/she will receive one site for free.  The special applies to Juvaderm as well.  

-Elizabeth

Product review

Elizabeth has a new product review!

November Product Spotlight- Topix

The arrival of November brings our Spotlight to Topix!

Topix Pharmaceuticals provides our Skin Care Krew with our very own line of products. From retinols to sunscreens, Topix has our patients covered. Antioxidant rich, Topix products can be very calming and soothing to the skin. 

Some of our favorite products will be covered this month not only by our regular Krew, but also other members of our Blair Plastic Surgery Staff.

Are there any specific products you would like to see reviewed? Leave your suggestions in the comments or email us at skincarekrew@gmail.com

-Diane

Re thinking the ink

On my eighteenth birthday, I got a tattoo and went on a road trip to Canada. Tattoos are like potato chips to me, and I did not stop at just one. I got a second tattoo, the oh so popular tramp stamp of the early 2000's a few months after. It seemed like a really good idea at the time.

Now, quite a few years later, I have rethought my tattoos. The placement is less than ideal, the tattoos themselves just aren't me. I approached Dr Fanny about attempting to remove my tattoos via laser treatments.

I started treatment in late 2011.

Each treatment only takes about 10-15 minutes. The treatment time varies based on size, patient tolerance and if settings must be changed. Dr Fanny traces the tattoo thoroughly to make sure all of the ink absorbs laser energy. Once the ink reacts with the laser it is up to the body itself to clear the ink out of the area. Multiple treatments are necessary, and require aftercare and lots of patience.

After care includes washing the area twice daily with antibacterial soap, reapplying triple antibiotic or antibacterial ointment and keeping the area from becoming sun exposed.

Tattoo removal works best on red and black ink, and some colors may not react at all.

The best way to find out if laser treatment is right for you is to come on in! Pricing is based on the size of the tattoo and all tattoos need to be evaluated by a Skin Care Krew staff member prior to treatment.

-Diane

Seasonal Skincare

Fall is here and so is the need to switch up our skincare! 

We have pick up a couple of quick and easy tips, and want to make everyone's seasonal transition a bit easier this year!

-Use a humidifier. A humidifier in your home or apartment will keep the ambient humidity a bit higher which will help the feeling of dryness on the skin.

-Swith to lukewarm water when cleansing the skin. Hot water strips the skin of essential oils and over dryness may occur as a result.

-Consider going fragrance free. Fragrance and dye free skincare products will be less irritation than other products.

- Don't forget the SPF! Sun protection is essential 365 days a year, not just in the summer!

Rebecca

Does your skin really need to breathe?

We hear this every day in the office. A woman will come and in while reviewing her skin history, she will talk about breaks that she takes from products, make up or both to allow her skin to breathe.

So, do we really need to give our skin a chance to breathe?

For some people, the benefits of being able to go without make up are great. They feel that their skin stays clearer the less product that they have to apply.The biggest breakout culprits are oil, fragrances, allergens and preservatives. However, if make up is properly removed each evening, there should not be an issue with clogged pores and breakout. There is no need to allow the skin to breathe.

The top layer of skin is dead and does not require respiration. When people refer to allowing the skin to breathe, they are usually talking about not occluding the skin with heavy creams or lotions. The lower layers of skin are really the layers that we need to concentrate on feeding and nourishing with effective vitamins C and vitamin A

Do you take a break from products to allow your skin to breathe?

-Diane

Hydrating B5 gel

SkinCeutical's Purifying Cleanser Review

BRA Day 2012

Blair Plastic Surgery is a proud sponsor of BRA Day. BRA Day, or breast reconstruction awareness day is an international initiative to make reconstructive options know to all people affected by breast cancer. Not only are reconstruction options available, reconstruction is also covered by insurance!

Dr Louton has 20 plus years of experience using all types of reconstructive procedures, and most recently has become a sub investigator for BRAVA Fat trasfer procedure, which uses the patient's own fat to reshape the breast mound.

We are proud to sponsor such a great project, and hope that we can get the word out that we are serious about helping our patients close the loop on breast cancer!

-Dr Fanny, The Kaptain

everything you have ever wanted to know about Botox

Have you wondered about Botox, but were afraid to ask? We went through some of our most common patient questions and answered them for everyone!

- Does Botox prevent wrinkles? Yes! Botox slows the muscle contraction that causes fine lines to etch into the skin.

-Is Botox going to make me feel numb or look frozen? No, Botox does not interfere with the nerve endings that control sensation. Looking frozen can be a by product of too much Botox concentrated in one location. Dr Louton most often recommends softening the lines instead of freezing the area all together.

-Does Botox hurt?  Like any injection, there may be a slight discomfort at the injection site. discomfort can be minimized by icing the are before and after. We provide our patients cool packs to help with the sensations associated with discomfort.

-What is the best age to start Botox? You don't have to wait for the wrinkles to start to begin Botox treatments. Any age is fine to begin Botox, which is FDA approved for patients ages 18 to 65.

-How long does Botox last? Botox last anywhere from 3 to 4 months before the muscles regain motion.

-Will my friends know I had Botox? Yes and no. Your friends may notice if you look a little bit more refreshed. However, if your Botox was over done, they may notice you look shiny, tight and totally frozen.

-What can I expect the day after Botox treatment?- Not a whole lot. Botox takes several days to a week to take effect. The lines then will gradually decrease over the course of one to three months. Anyone preparing for a major event show have treatment at least 2 weeks in advance.

-Diane

SkinCeutical's Clarifying Cleanser review

Elizabeth reviewing SkinCeuticals, our spotlight product line for October!

Peel away the summer

If you are like me, the summer took its toll on your skin. The beach left more than just sand between my toes! The sun's rays caused little brown spots, fine lines and a dull complexion. I am all washed up!

So how do I peel away the summer damage?

I start by revamping my home care.
-Hydration becomes essential, and repairing the skin's surface can't be done without epidermal water loss being slowed. I am currently using Hydrating B5 gel and Skin Firming cream from SkinCeuticals to repair. Other products I have used include Toleraine and Substiane from La Roche Posay.

-Next I have to feed my fried out collagen. Phloretin CF from SkinCeuticals is my broad spectrum antioxidant of choice currently. I love the way it feels on my skin, and with the additional ingredients of ferulic acid and phloretic, I am getting some help with my pigment issuses too!

-Increasing the skin's turn over rate is accomplished by returning to my Vitamin A regimen. I am back using Redermic R from La Roche Posay. I love the LHA that helps to gently exfoliate with each application.

-Exfoliation is key. The Black Mask from Revisions has become a weekly treatment for me. This gentle alpha hydroxy rich mask exfoliates the days working outside in the garden in no time!

In the office, I start with microdermabrasion. For my skin type, I use microdermabrasion about 4 times a year to physically exfoliate and restart my skin. Microdermabrasion is done in our office with a diamond chipped wand and vacuum system and hydrating products are added after treatment to help repair skin

Intense Pulse Light treatments (IPL) can also help break up pigment from the summer and decease the apperance of vessels and capillaries that occur from sun burns. IPL treatments work best in a series of 3, and are scheduled about 3 weeks apart.

Downtime for all of these procedures is minimal.

Home care and in office treatments, combined with a great injectable treatment of Botox with Dr Louton will have me ready to face my family and patients with a fresh face well before the holiday season!

-Diane

Broad Spectrum Antioxidants

Things I didn't know

I don’t know about you, but I feel like every day I’m bombarded with TV and infomercials with new tips and techniques to make my skin look “flawless” or “perfect.”  Truth is, nothing in this world can make your skin look like the airbrushed supermodels in your monthly Cosmo.  And, like all of you, I am tired of companies trying to persuade me to purchase their very expensive products in order to attain this so-called “perfection.”  So here is a list of things that you’ve probably not heard that are relatively easy (and cheap) to do.  While they won’t make your skin perfect, they will definitely help to improve!

1.       Even the cheapest lotion will work.

Afraid to use that lotion from your hotel room?  Don’t be.  Any emollient will not only temporarily plump up fine lines but also help prevent skin aging.  Any lotion containing glycerin, Shea butter, or any other basic hydrator will help your skin by moisturizing it, increasing elasticity, and helping to decrease flakiness.  That being said, do you want to use your hotel lotion every day?  Probably not.  For everyday use, Dr. Fanny recommends a cream or lotion that contain ingredients such as glycolic (to help with cell turnover), peptides (to stimulate collagen growth), or antioxidants (to fight against DNA-damaging free radicals.

2.       Relax your face while working out.

Everyone knows that exercising regularly is great for your skin.  But are you conscience of the facial expressions you’re making when you lift those weights?  Clenching your teeth, clenching your jaw and throat can make the cords in their neck pop out and become more prominent, as well as pull down the face.  Instead, try to relax your face as much as possible.

3.       When we say wear a daily sunscreen, we really mean daily.

I can’t tell you how many patients have told me they don’t wear a daily sunscreen.  Why?  Because “it’s dark when I leave for work, and it’s dark when I get home.” Don’t assume you aren’t going to have ANY exposure to the sun on a daily basis. Unlike UVB light, UVA rays travel through windows in the office, home, and car.  UVA rays are the long, aging rays, and have been discovered to be carcinogenic.  SPF 30 in a broad-spectrum sunscreen needs to be worn daily in order to protect your skin.  No ifs, ands, or buts.

4.       Don’t sit too close to that space heater.

With winter and cooler weather coming, women (even on our office) are breaking out the space heathers!  All the SPF and sun avoidance in the world can't protect you from the space heater next to your desk or the fireplace in your living room.  Redness, flushing, broken capillaries, and breakdown of collagen are all caused from sitting to close to direct heat.  So what’s too close?  Experts advise sitting at least 10 feet away from the heat source.

5.       Don’t over-fill.

Women are beginning to realize that fuller faces look younger, and have started getting filler injections to help reverse the years.  Radiesse, Juvéderm, Sculptra, and other volume fillers are more widely available than ever.  But don’t overdo it.  Eyes, mouths, and jawlines can become dwarfed by filling in the cheeks and naso-labial folds to the extremes.  Instead, ask your doctor to just fill in the places where the fat had gone away with age – the temples, front of the ears, and chin.  By making your face fuller from the outside, the softness of your face increases without looking overdone or unnatural.

6.       Banish those straws!

Water, water, water.  We all know water is one secret to great skin.  However, how you drink the water can also have an effect.  Women who drink from straws or out of plastic water bottles with small openings are the most common to suffer from unwanted peri-oral wrinkles and fine lines.  The constant pursing can aggravate the current lines, as well as even create new ones!  When drinking your water, opt to drink from a glass or carry a reusable bottle with a spout so you can squirt the water in.  New reusable water bottles have been designed with large openings to prevent this as well.

 

7.       Sleep position can cause wrinkles.

When we sleep on our sides or stomach as night, the skin on our face is pressed into a pillowcase all night.  There are two potential problems with this.  First, pillow cases need to be washed once a week.  Oil and dirt, as well as makeup (if you don’t wash your face at night) can get trapped in the pillowcase and transfer onto your skin as you sleep, causing acne and blackheads.  Keeping the case clean protects against this.  Second, the smoother the pillowcase, the better.  The skin in pressed against the wrinkles of your pillowcase as you sleep, causing them to transfer.  The best way to avoid this is sleeping on your back. However, if this is not an option, we recommend satin or silky pillowcases, or if you prefer cotton, the highest thread count available.

-Rebecca

Dr Pinnell and the importance of antioxidants and SPF

Featured Product Line- Skinceutical

October's featured product line is Skinceuticals! Since 2001, Dr Fanny has incorporated this product line into the care of our patients.

Skinceuticals is truly a skincare line that has the science behind the products. Dr. Pinnell, Skinceutical's founding scientist has changed the face of antioxidant technology. Dr Pinnell now holds 10 patents for antioxidants and skin treatments! Most of these products only are effective because of the patents that he developed.

Skinceuticals has products available for all skin types, and is committed to educating patients on the importance of antioxidants and skin protection.

We will be reviewing many of our favorite products this month. What products would you like to know more about?

-Rebecca

Breast Cancer Awareness

October brings apple cider, crisp weather and pink ribbons.

Breast Cancer Awareness month begins today, and the Skin Care Krew is doing their part! This year, Blair Plastic Surgery is promoting BRA Day, the first annual event in the United States!

BRA Day is Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day, a day set aside to raise awareness at of all reconstruction options after surgical treatment for breast cancer. 7 out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer are never told their full surgical reconstruction options, and may be left struggling to find clothes to fit, a sense of loss and inability to emotionally heal.

Here in the office, The Admiral, Dr Robert Louton, will be giving a series of seminars all about breast surgery. Together with an online initiative and offices of Board Certified Plastic Surgeons nationwide, we can all get the word out about closing the loop on breast cancer.

-The Skin Care Krew

Skin Care Focus Group

We will be holding a Skin Care Focus Group in our State College office today! We have been preparing for several weeks for this event and are so excited!

After a brief introduction of our practice and staff, we will be presenting two new cosmeceutical product lines, ReGenica and Revisions.

ReGenica is a new brand containing growth factors and stem cell technology and we do not currently offer any of their products in our practice.  We do offer 2 products from Revisions; Teamine eye cream and Intellishade tinted sunscreen.  Revisions however, has a multitute of specialty products available which we have never tried; Nectifirm for the neck, Lumiquin for the hands, the Black Mask, to name a few. The goal of our focus groups is to determined whether or not these new products/lines are worth the time and cost based on the results they may or may not produce. We need volunteers who are willing to test these products for 6 weeks.  Full size products will be given to those 4 volunteers that fit the target profile for these products.  Two volunteers will try the Regenica line and 2 other volunteers will try the Revisions products.

Other attendants will be given sample sizes of those products and can return for the Results focus group on Thursday November 8th.

We look forward to sharing our results!

-Dr Fanny

What about me?

Recently, our Skin Care Kaptain was asked what a person in their 60's should do for more mature skin and the best place to start.

This was Dr Fanny's reponse:

"When we reach our 60's, it becomes more difficult to "cream" away wrinkles but it's never too late to get serious about avoiding and correcting sun damage.  It's important that you discuss your goals face to face with a physician who is experienced in both surgical and non-surgical procedures.  I would recommend you seek out board certified plastic surgeons and/or board certified dermatologists in your area.  Make a few calls first to get a feel for the office and to determine whether the physician's practice is predominantly cosmetic or general.  Pick the cosmetic practice(s) of your choice and set up an appointment for an evaluation.  You should be able to discuss multiple options with the doctor during your visit.  And there is definitely more than one way to skin the cat, so don't be taken in by the "best and newest machine/procedure", you should be given a range of possible solutions with a range of costs.  This should give you a basic idea of where you may want to start"

-Dr Fanny Louton, MD

The History of Beauty

Ever wonder how women in the early centuries could have possibly survived without skincare

or makeup? Well, they didn’t! Skin care and cosmetics date back to around 3000 BC, when
the Chinese would create nail polish from gum arabic, egg whites, gelatin, and beeswax. In
early 1500 BC, people would use sandpaper as an exfoliate and smooth texture, much like we
use microdermabrasion machines today. Ancient Egyptians, such as Cleopatra, would soak
in milk baths to soften their skin (due to the lactic acid), and used pumice stones and olive oil
to exfoliate and moisturize. They also used crushed minerals, such as malachite, to create
pigments for their eyes, lips, and cheeks, as well as used kohl (a paste from soot, animal fat,
and lead) as an eyeliner. Ancient Greeks would use olive oil all over their bodies, then coat
themselves with dust to create a physical block from the sun.

Around the 15th century, the paler one was, the more beautiful. Because of this, cosmetics,

again made with lead, were created to achieve this “white” look. Lead was mixed with vinegar
to create foundations, was the first ingredient in early chemical peels, and was used to remove
freckles and blemishes as a spot treatment. It wasn’t until the mid-1800s that the effects of lead
were discovered, including disfigurement, infertility, and often death to those who used large
amounts of the chemical element. It was finally banned from cosmetic use in 1938.

Here is a list of important years in the cosmetic/skincare business:

* 1907 - Eugene Schueller, a chemist, created the first safe hair dye, and creates L’oreal.

* 1909 - Max Factor, of today’s MaxFactor cosmetics, opens his first store in Los Angeles.

* 1910 - Elizabeth Arden Salon is opened on Saks Fifth Ave in New York. The creator, Florence

Nightengale Graham, is the first to mix science with cosmetics, and creates the modern-day
spa.

*1917 - T.L. Williams, founder of Maybelline, creates the first modern mascara after being

inspired by his sister, Maybel.

*1920s - Greta Garbo, Hollywood star, popularizes the thick eyebrow, introducing and boosting

sales of eyeliner throughout the country.

*1936 - Eugene Schueller, the creator of L’oreal, invents chemical sunscreen.

*1944 - Coppertone Suntan Cream is created when a Miami pharmacist develops a sunscreen

for the soldiers fighting in World War II.

*1960s - Exaggerated eye makeup and pale skin is back in, thanks to supermodel Twiggy

*1970s - As the Feminist Movement flourishes, the natural look is in. More emphasis is put on

skincare and having beautiful natural skin than the on the cosmetics.

*1980s - Women invade the workforce, and dark, dramatic makeup, along with very large

shoulder pads, take over.

*1990s - Natural look comes full circle again, this time with better advertising of the “no makeup”

look with help from supermodels Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington.

*Today - Beauty and skin trends change constantly, with more science coming behind many

of the cosmeceutical companies. Organic and mineral makeups are extremely popular, with
many women not wanted to put any extra chemicals in their bodies. Sun protection is at an alltime
high with technology, with many antioxidant products coming out that perform as well as a
sunscreen can.

Imagine - with all of the changes and inventions and technology that has been developed over

the last 3500 years, what our grandchildren, or even great-great grandchildren will be using on
their skin!

-Elizabeth

Overnight Aging

 

The first signs of aging appeared overnight. "Right around the time of my birthday, if I recall correctly. First, I saw faint little lines coming from both of my eyes. I figured I had just slept funny on the pillow, and it would be gone by lunchtime. At lunchtime, I rechecked and the lines were still there. I panicked. Clearly, I am too young for crow's feet! Over the next few weeks, I started to notice more fine lines and that my skin was just looking over all dull. Then, a brown spot. Right on the side of my cheek! That's why I called and came right in. Please help!"

 

 

I often hear these exact statements from our patients. The phenomenon of overnight aging is not limited to women either. Men suddenly may notice aging prior to class reunions or other major events.

 

How best can we correct these problems?

 

-Exfoliating Moisturizer, especially with glycolic acid can gently exfoliate skin dullness, mild tone issues and soften the beginnings of fine lines. We recommend several products, including Vivite's Vore system to our patients.

-Retinol Eye Cream, Vitamin A (retinol) helps to plump and thicken skin. For around the eyes, use specially formulated eye creams, like La Roche Posay's Redermic Eyes or Topix Retinol Eye cream. Retinol is not well tolerated in every skin type, so be sure to check in with your skin care professional before changing up your regimen.

-Sunscreen, aging starts with unprotected sun exposure. UVA rays are especially damaging. Protecting your investments in your skin by using sunscreen is essential! Broad spectrum, physical block applied every 1-2 hours while in  the sun are the best anti aging tool of all! We recommend Topix Glycoix Elite Zinc Sunscreen with 30 spf, Intellishade 45 spf and many other sunscreens from various lines.

 

All products can be found on www.skincarekorner.com!

 

-Rebecca

 

 



Skin Care by the numbers!

Via: Tanda Skincare

PCA Oxygenating Mask

                                      Watch as Elizabeth administers an Oxygenating Mask!

RejuvaHealth Compression Stockings

We have been asked with increasing frequency about compression stockings and how they work.

Compression stocking used to only be available to post surgical patients or those on bed rest to prevent blood clots in the legs due to inactivity. Now, compression is used by all ages and activitiy levels to decrease fatigue in the legs, swelling in the feet and a feeling of heaviness as the work day progresses. Everyone from nurses to firemen are using compression.

Compression stockings are made out of stongly woven elastic that squeeze the leg muscles to more quickly return blood to the heart and reduce swelling and pooling in the venous system. Compression is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and higher compression levels may require a prescription.

We offer our patients RejuvaHealth stockings, and many of our staff wear them! The stockings are availabel in knee high, thigh high and panty hose lengths!

                   





Elizabeth likes her Lavish Leopard print while Diane is wearing Luxe Lace.

These and many more are available at www.skincarekorner.com!

UV Damage

UV damage is one of the  most common issues that the Skin Care Krew counsels patients about. By the time our patients come in complaining of brown spots, texture issues or rough scaly patches, the damage is done.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has plenty of things to say about sun damage, and it is past time for all of us to listen.

First, there is no such thing as a healthy tan! The skin produces tan in order to shade itself, like a built in umbrella if you will. However, over time the umbrella breaks down and the skin beneath feels the effects of the UV light.

Second- A sunburn is caused when a high dose of radiation on the form of UV light kills the top layer of skin cells. Not only does a moderate sunburn kill skin cells, but after the peeling occurs, the the new skin cells beneath are even more prone to damage.

Third- Sun exposure causes premature aging of the skin because of 3 factors. UVB stimulates the cells of the epidermis to produce more quickly, and this causes a thickening effect. UVA light bypasses the thickened skin and effects the connective tissue (collagen) and the elasticity weakens.  Overproduction of melanin from UVB exposure creates spoting. So combining all three leaves an over exposed patient with coarse, sagging spotted skin.


The best way to prevent UV damage is still to use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least 30 spf and reapply every 2 hours. Broad brimmed hats, sun resistant clothing and avoiding the sun during peak exposure hours are the gold standard for protecting yourself. Another rule of thumb is if you shadow is shorter than you are, it is time to head inside!

-Diane

resources
www.who.int/faq/uvhealth/en/index

September Spotlight- PCA Skin Care

PCA Skin was established almost two decades ago by physicians and estheticians who believed that highly effective skin care products could also be gentle. in 1990, licensed esthetician Margret Ancirca partnered with physicians to create her products. PCA is committed to products that are free of dyes, fragrance, lanolin and mineral oil. PCA products are only available from physician's offices. In addition to home care products, PCA Skin also has an extensive line of in office chemical peel and enzyme masks to treat and gently improve almost any skin type!

The Skin Care Krew had a chance to meet with Dr Linder, Chief Scientist for PCA Skin, in Las Vegas in 2012 at the Multi Disciplinary Meeting. Upon meeting Dr Linder, the Krew was given the opportunity to talk about product ingredients, and what may be coming new in the future.

PCA Skin home products are available at www.skincarekorner.com and in office treatments can be scheduled by calling our office at (814) 949-7280 or (814) 234-1420

-Diane

BB Creams, here to stay or all hype?

All across the Internet, BB creams are being buzzed about. Every blog and review site has an article about this new product.

So what is a BB cream?

BB stands for either Blemish Balm, Blemish Base or Beauty Balm, depending on the manufacturing company. The purpose of these hybrid product is to multitask for the consumer. The main ingredients are typically a moisturizer, primer, foundation and sunblock.

BB creams have been around since the 1960's when dermatologist Dr Chrisitne Schrammek developed the first BB cream for her patients to use to hide redness and protect their skin after laser resurfacing. Since then, BB creams have been used extensively by consumers in Asia, most notably Korea where additives for skin whitening are popular.

Since hitting the market in 2010, BB creams have been met with a lukewarm response until just recently. With more public awareness and different formulations of these hybrid creams, expect to see BB creams on more bathroom counter tops in the future.

There are many different versions so make sure that if you decide to try one of these new products, read the ingredients carefully. Many brands have a skin lightener or shimmer added which may cause irritation in some skin types. Apply only as directed and sparingly.

In our practice, we have Revisions Intellishade, a product which is a moisturizing sunscreen with added peptides. For many of our patients interested in a BB cream, Intellishade may be a good fit! Check out www.skincarekorner.com for details on Intellishade.

So, will you be trying a BB cream in the future?

-Diane

How much is too much? Part One- lip augmentation

When you make the decision to have injectable fillers, presumably it is to address facial features that are inadequate or have changed over time. So how much filler is enough?  It depends.  Is the goal to reverse some of the signs of aging?  Or is the purpose to enhance a facial attribute such as lips or eyes?  Reversing the signs of aging tends toward larger volumes distributed over larger areas, while enhancement tends to focus the volume to a single feature.

We often address a single feature when we should be looking at the overall picture and asking ourselves what is the best way to improve the result.

The objective of filling a single facial attribute should be to enhance the feature not to change its anatomy.  What my filler patients fear most is over correction.   A fake look is rendered when the anatomy of the feature is not respected. 

A perfect example is the lips.

 

My goal is to define the philtrum first and then increase vermillion height.  I stop the injection before distorting the natural contour of the lips.   The patient should not look as though she just came out of the plastic surgeons office.  The lips should appear natural and youthful with a modest amount of definition and volume.  Attempts to upturn the lips greater than their anatomy allows often yields distortion and loss of delicacy of the bow or an unnatural projection of the lips (“duck lips”).

 

 

-"The Admiral" Dr Robert Louton, MD, F.A.C.S.

 

 

 

Consultations and treatment are available from Dr Louton in both our Altoona and State College locations. Call (814)949-7280 or (814) 234-1420 for more information.

 



Improving your skin through diet

I’m sure every one of us would LOVE to lose a few pounds...but did you know that by eating

healthier and dieting, you can actually improve your skin as well? And it isn’t what you
think..just as I do with my patients, I will reiterate again...chocolate and Mt. Dew do NOT cause pimples! However, Cosmopolitan.com recently featured an article called “A Diet for Gorgeous Skin" informing readers what eat and what actually to avoid:

1. New research shows that potatoes, and white breads, pastas, and rice can trigger high insulin levels, causing unwanted breakouts! Instead, eat whole-grains,
like whole grain breads and whole wheat pastas.
What are the benefits for your health? Studies have shown a significant decrease

of strokes, Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, colorectal cancer, and gum

disease! And on a personal note, whole wheat pasta reheats MUCH better than
white pasta, staying firm, and not getting mushy!

 2. Eating more seafood! Fish contains essential fatty acids Omega-3
and Omega-6, which help to decrease inflammation in the body. The less
inflammation, the fewer pimples! Inflammation is also a cause of premature
wrinkling. Salmon, mackerel and tuna are more recommended.

Now, if you’re anything like me and you HATE seafood, there are other
alternatives! Many nuts contain these fatty acids, such as almonds, hazelnuts,
eggs and flaxseeds. Throw some on your salad, or pack a baggie to snack on at
your desk.

What are the benefits to your health? The list is too long to type out!

Studies have shown that omega fatty acids can help prevent degenerative

diseases like heart disease, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s,
diabetes and more. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3’s are especially
beneficial to menopausal women in preserving heart, breast and bone health,
and even help keep for mood swings. I’ll have to make a mental note to stock our
office kitchen with some almonds...

3. Avoid foods that make you blush. Not every women has this problem, but

many do, especially as they age and blood vessels dilate more. Foods to avoid
are spicy foods, such as mexican or hot peppers, MSG, and alcohol. If you do
tend to get red easily and often, simply pay attention to what triggers it and cut
back. Cutting back on spicy foods can also prevent heartburn and acid reflux, and
avoiding or cutting back alcohol can reduce calorie intake, which is never a bad
thing!

4. Many women feel that if they cut out fat altogether, they are being healthy.

However, avoiding all fats can hinder more than help. Many women, especially
younger, become dry and flaky because they are not eating enough fat. Eating
fat in moderation can help to lubricate your skin, as well as absorb Vitamin A.
Deficiency of Vitamin A will cause premature aging, early fine lines, and uneven
texture. Avocados, nuts, olive oil, and egg whites are all full of good fats that can
help your skin, and not make you put on the pounds.
Your body also needs fats to survive. When one restricts too much fat
from her diet, she she is at risk for depression, increased cancer risk, overeating,
and unbalanced nutrients. Moderation is the key!

And to me, most importantly, DRINK WATER! Water flushes out impurities and

keeps your body and skin hydrated. It has also been proven that you can burn
200 calories a day, simply by drinking 6 glasses of ice cold water every day!



-Elizabeth

La Roche Posay Redermic R review- Diane

Diane reviewing Redermic R by La Roche Posay

How to read a cosmetic label

We all know how important it us to read the labels on the food we eat and fluids we drink, but what about our cosmetics? 

Whether our product is a make up, cleanser or sunscreen, it is important as consumer to know exactly what we are placing on out skin. The FDA  requires certain information on each label including ingredient and warnings. Sometimes it can get a little confusing as to what exactly you are looking at!

1. Product Identity

2. Net Contents

3. Product Ingredients

4. Directions for use

5. Origin of product

6. Manufacturer information

7. *Not a FDA requirement, denotes how long the product is stable once opened

8. *Not a FDA requirement, denotes compliance with European recycling standards

9. Warnings

For the Krew, it is very important that we read and understand what ingredients are in our products prior to recommending to our patients. Ingredients are listed in order of concentration, so the first ingredient is the one with the highest percentage in the product. Also, the full ingredient name will be listed. For instance, if the   Product claims to have "Retinol" in it and the ingredient listed in "retinol palmitate" the skin's response may not be what was originally intended.

Remember to read and understand what ingredients are in your products before you ever apply anything to your skin!

-Diane

La Roche Posay Substiane+ Review by Dr Fanny

Time to clean house!

I am currently renovating some rooms in my house, and my next project is my bathroom. As

a recovering product/makeup junkie, as I was cleaning out the many skin care, hair care,

and cosmetic products I had accumulated over the past 4 years, I was starting to feel a little

overwhelmed! I mean, what was good? What should I keep? What should I pitch? Some of

the makeup I had was from my makeup artist days, and were well over 4 years old. Obviously I

threw out anything with an expiration. But what about everything else? So I decided to do some

research. I knew if I was having this problem, that many of my patients were as well.

After looking into things, I came up with a general list of shelf life for most skin care and

cosmetics:

*Mascara, Eyeshadow, and Eyeliner - 2-3 months. These products are most important to

replace regularly, as they are applied so closely to your eyes. Mascara wands can easily breed

bacteria, which can transfer to your eyes. It will have a gasoline-like smell when it goes bad.

Eyeliner and eyeshadow that are past the usage point can cause red, itchy eyes, and even

conjunctivitis.

*Liquid Foundation - 6-12 months. When left in hot or moist environments, bacteria can grow.

Also, avoid dipping your fingers directly into the bottle, as your fingers can carry bacteria and

germs as well. Instead, pour a little on the back of your hand, or use a sponge. However, use a

new sponge every time you apply.

*Powders/Powder Blush - 2 years. There is hardly any water in a powder so the risk of

contaminating with bacteria is low. However, blush brushes should be cleaned

weekly with an

antibacterial cleanser, or your regular face wash.

*Lipstick/Lipgloss - 1 year. As long as the lipstick/gloss is not left in direct heat, or left

unopened for a long period of time, you can go up to one year before replacing this product.

Skin Care

*Facial Cleansers - 6-12 months. After this time, the active ingredients in the wash can break

down and become less effective, especially if left in a hot shower.

*Moisturizers - 6 to 12 months after being opened/ 2 years if unopened. Facial moisturizers

that have added ingredients -- like antioxidants or vitamins A, C, or E -- expire more quickly

because they're sensitive to light and heat (if left in your bathroom). If you notice a change in

color, consistency, or smell, throw the products out.

*Retinols/Trets - Most of these products will have an expiration date, but in case you can’t find

one, 6 months. The Vitamin A can break down over time, making the product less effective.

*Vitamin C - 6-8 months. After you open a Vitamin C product, oxygen will get to it and the

product will oxidize, or turn dark. This is normal, and will not affect the effectiveness. However,

after 6-8 months, you may notice the the Vitamin C is very dark and may have an odd smell. At

that point, it will need replaced.

*Eye Creams - 6 months. Active ingredients can break down after too long in eye creams.

Also, try to avoid dipping fingers directly into eye cream, as you can transfer more bacteria.

*Sunscreens - All sunscreens are now required to have an expiration date on the bottle.

Sunscreen expiration dates are 3 years after the manufacturing date, but if you try to use an

SPF from last year and it’s watery or smells odd, buy a new bottle.

After going through all of my own products, I ended up throwing away a majority of the products.

My husband was thrilled...at least until my next trip to the makeup store to replace everything I

threw out!

-Elizabeth

Solar Damage and Prevention

Did you know there are antioxidants that can help prevent solar damage?

Product Line Spotlight- La Roche Posay

La Roche Posay is our featured skin care line this month over at www.skincarekorner.com! To know why we are featuring such a great product line, we wanted to give all of our subscribers a bit of background on this line and explain why La Roche Posay is known for longevity in the skincare industry.

La Roche Posay is a small village in the heart of France that has a one of a kind, selenium rich spring flowing through it. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant with heavy duty healing properties. The people of the village have known for a very long time that their spring, and the Thermal Spring Water that bubbled up from it, was something special. In fact, The Thermal Center was established as a hospital for dermatological problems and healing and gained recognition from the French Medical Academy in 1865 for efficacy of Thermal Spring Water in treating skin conditions.

Some of the products from La Roche Posay at skincarekorner.com

On a side note, there are two stories circulating about the discovery of La Roche Posay spring. The first legend says that in the Middle Ages, a knight named Bertrand Du Geusclin stopped at the spring to water his horse. The horse, who suffered from eczema, took one drink of water and then leaped into the spring. When the horse emerged, his eczema was healed. The other story is that Napolean built a hospital to treat his soldiers coming back from war who had suffered skin injuries at the La Roche Posay spring in the 19th century.

Today, the same dermatological hospital treats roughly 7,500 patients annually for everything from rosacea to psoriasis. For those of us looking for the benefits of selenium and Thermal Spring Water a bit closer to home, Thermal Spring Water is used in each and every La Roche Posay product!

All this month, the Skin Care Krew will be reviewing our favorite products and passing on our recommendations. If there is a specific product you would like to know more about, you can always leave your request in the comments or email us directly!

skincarekrew@gmail.com


-Diane

A Hard Habit to Break-Elizabeth

I recently came across an article at www.Allure.com (the makeup artist in me still loves reading

about new cosmetics!!) called “17 Bad Skin Habits.” As I was reading the article, it amazed me

how many of the bad habits I myself had! If I (a skincare specialist who worked with bad skin

everyday) was guilty of these habits, how many of our patients were? The entire list can be

found at http://www.allure.com/skin-care/2010/bad_skin_habits#slide=4. 
Below is highlighted a list of some very important, and easily breakable, habits.

* Skipping a Daily Sunscreen - The fastest way of aging your skin? Not wearing a broadspectrum

sunscreen of at least an SPF 30 or higher! A tablespoon is recommended to safely

protect your face.

* Smoking - Do I really need to explain this one? Not only is smoking horrible for your health, it

also ages you an average of 2.5 years every year. Not to mention the awful smell....

* Using Dirty Makeup Brushes - This is a HUGE culprit among many patients. Take 10

minutes once a week, and wash your brushes with your facial cleanser! You’ll be surprised at

the difference!

* Not Washing Your Face At Night - I am the guiltiest party with this bad habit! I understand

that by the end of the day, you’re beat. I’m the same way, but if I can break this habit with a

4 year old, work full time, and school full time, so can you! Take 10 minutes and wash your

face...I promise you’ll see a big improvement within a week.

* Popping Pimples - It’s so hard not to pick. As someone who used to suffer from cystic acne,

I know this all too well. But your face will thank you in the long run if you can keep your hands

off! Apply some SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age or some benzoyl peroxide to help dry it up.

Picking at a pimple can actually push the bacteria inside deeper into your face, causing more

surrounding breakout, not to mention redness and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. If

a pimple looks ready to break, apply warm compresses to see if it will drain on its own. If not

HANDS OFF until it can heal itself.

* Tanning - Again, do I really need to explain this one? There is a laundry list of horrible things

that tanning can do to your body, including thicker skin, melasma, hyperpigmentation, fine lines,

and cancer. Self tanners and spray tans can give you the golden glow you want using much

safer methods.Check out the article at http://www.skincarekorner.com/index.phpp=detail&pid=61&cat_id=.

Which habits will you be changing?

-Elizabeth