Archive for March, 2009

Are You Over-Cleansing Your Skin?

March 19th, 2009

We’ve all heard the term “a little is good, so more must be better!” While it may be true for some things, it is not true when it comes to caring for your skin. When you over cleanse your skin you can strip your skin of the oils that keep it healthy and balanced. People with oily skin tend to over cleanse in the effort to get rid of the shiny, oily appearance of the skin. Oily skin can actually become more oily with over cleansing, because it can trigger a panic response and send your oil glands into overdrive to compensate for the “over stripping” that over cleansing may cause. In turn, oily skin becomes shinier and can actually produce more breakouts if you are acne prone. Dry skin can become flakey and irritated making you look older and more tired than you actually are. Nobody wants that!

Here are the top 5 face cleansing errors:

· Cleansing too often – No matter what your skin type, cleanse no more than twice a day with a cleanser appropriate for your skin type.
· Using too much cleanser – Dilute a small amount of cleanser with water and lather it up in the palm of your hand before applying it to your face.
· Using products that are too harsh for your skin – If your skin feels dry and tight on a regular basis your products are too harsh for your skin type. Switch to milder ingredients and consult with your skin care specialist.
· Using products too harshly – Abrasive scrubs, over scrubbing, and products with exfoliating acids, such as glycolic and salicylic acids should be used 1-2 times a week. Daily use may cause blotchy, red, flaky skin or even broken capillaries.
· Not enough rinsing – Make sure your cleanser is thoroughly removed. Just when you think you are done rinsing, rinse three more times to make sure no residue is left behind.

Do you think you may be an “over cleanser?” Call today for a free consultation and skin analysis. I can show you the proper way to cleanse and recommend skin care products that are appropriate and compliment your individual skin type. You deserve to look as good as you feel!

Hyaluronic Acid

March 3rd, 2009

What is hyaluronic acid (HA)? It is a glycosaminoglycan (GAG), which is a substance that attaches to collagen and elastin to form cartilage. Hyaluronic acid not only helps keep the cartilage that cushions joints strong and flexible, but also helps increase joint-lubricating synovial fluid.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is present in every tissue of the body. It has many functions including stimulating the tissue’s water retention capabilities. It can help provide nutrients and remove waste from cells that do not have a direct blood supply, such as cartilage.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is gaining popularity in the cosmetic and medical industries. HA is found in many anti-aging/anti-wrinkle serums and creams as one of the “active ingredients.” It is said to be a natural wrinkle filler since HA is capable of retaining up to 1000 times its weight in water, which means it can produce a plumping effect when applied topically to the skin that can be visible within minutes of application. Since our bodies produce HA naturally there is little to no chance of the body or skin reacting badly with it, so it is recommended for all skin types including sensitive/reactive skin. Injections of hyaluronic acid are also available to reduce the appearance of creases and wrinkles or to plump up the appearance of your lips.

Are you interested in finding out how hyaluronic acid can benefit you? Advanced Cosmetic Surgery Center carries Image Skin Care products that specialize in anti-aging and corrective skin care. Many of the products contain hyaluronic acid to plump and moisturize the skin without added oils. HA is also great for acne prone skin since it can moisturize without any added pore-clogging oils. We also offer hyaluronic acid based dermal fillers, which are the injections used to fill in wrinkles and creases or to plump up your pout with immediate results that can last for months and months!

We offer complimentary skin care consultations. Don’t wait; call us today at (303) 367-9000 to schedule your appointment.