Archive for December, 2008

Is Your Stress Showing?

December 16th, 2008

During the holiday season we are supposed to be happy and jolly even though we have to go to work every day, take care of our family and household, attend holiday parties, shop until you drop for holiday presents, wrap all the presents, send out holiday cards, bake cookies….All while managing the finances to make sure you can survive until the new year. It’s hard to be jolly and stay in the festive mood to give. Most of us call this time of year STRESSFUL. Sometimes I feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done.

Unfortunately, stress does a lot more than just make you cranky. It can actually wreck havoc on your skin. Stress can exacerbate problems you already have with your skin and even create more problems you haven’t experienced in the past. Stress causes the formation of the “stress hormones” adrenaline, cortisol and DHEA, which induce a range of physiological responses intended to help you survive the stress you are going through. Even though these hormones can help you through this hard time they do come with several side effects. You can experience increased oil production, reduced immune system response and increased inflammation. Symptoms can be mild to severe and can include acne flare ups, hives, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and cold sores.

There are several things you can do to reduce the effects of stress such as meditation, regular exercise, massages and making sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. Maintaining a healthy diet can also help the effects of stress on your body and skin by giving it the nutrients it needs to stay strong and vibrant. Getting adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can be beneficial as it has anti-inflammatory properties among many other health benefits. Don’t like fish? You can get your omega-3 fatty acids in pill form, which can be purchased at any vitamin supplement retailer.

Have you taken the steps needed to reduce the amount of stress in your life, but you’re still fighting the effects of stress on your skin? Don’t worry; I can help you put your best face forward. Call me today for your free consultation and skin analysis and you will be on your way to healthier looking skin!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Turn Back Time

December 4th, 2008

Have you heard the buzz? You can actually get your skin to act younger again. How? With vitamin A or “retinol.” Retinol is vitamin A in its purest and most active form. It penetrates deep into the skin where it becomes active. Fine lines and wrinkles gradually smooth while moisture and elasticity increase. Your complexion will glow and sun damage will diminish.

Retinol is also used for acne management. The increased skin exfoliation of vitamin A helps unclog pores and even out skin tone and texture.

With continued use of retinol you may notice improvements in your skin in as little as 2 weeks. Your skin tone will start to even out and you will experience a smoother appearance overall. Most people may experience an initial period of flaking skin along with some redness and sensitivity, but generally, this is nothing to be concerned about. It takes time for your skin to adjust to the vitamin A. It is helpful to start slowly and work your way up to daily use. The use of sunscreen is mandatory during the use of retinol due to increased sun sensitivity.

Are you ready to turn back time? Call me today to schedule your complimentary consultation and skin analysis!