Articles

Rosacea

The  National Rosacea Society (NRS) designates April as Rosacea Awareness  Month. This chronic and widespread facial disorder now estimated to  affect more than 16 million Americans.
“The earliest signs of rosacea  are often overlooked because people assume they are temporary and will  go away,” said Dr. John Wolf, chairman of dermatology at Baylor College  of Medicine. “Unfortunately, without medical treatment the effects of  rosacea often persist and become increasingly severe.”
Common  triggers are exercise, sun and wind exposure, hot weather, stress, spicy  foods, alcohol, and hot baths. Swings in temperature from hot to cold  or cold to hot can also cause a flare-up of rosacea.
Many of the warning signs are

 Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
 Small visible blood vessels on the surface of the face
 Bumps or pimples on the face
 Watery  or irritated eyesIf you think you may have rosacea, see a dermatologist  for a diagnosis. At Vein Specialist of Norther California we can  customize a treatment plan to help with symptoms and decrease the  redness/inflamation and irregular skin conditions associated with  rosacea.

 Topical Antioxidants are the Key to Naturally Protect Skin

Antioxidant  skin care is one of the newest trends in beauty. Incorporating the  right antioxidants into your everyday skin care routine can have a  positive effect on your skin. In other words, antioxidant ingredients in  skin care products help in repairing past damage, and preventing future  damage in the skin cells.

Antioxidants are useful in two ways:  On the one hand they prevent degradation of natural ingredients  (proteins, sugars, lipids) in the cosmetic product. On the other hand  antioxidants protect the skin cells from being damaged and slow down the  aging process. Before we get into specific antioxidants and their  benefits to the skin, it is important to understand exactly what an  antioxidant does.

Antioxidants are nutrients (vitamins and  minerals) and enzymes (proteins inside your body) that can help to  prevent and repair damage to your body’s tissue. Antioxidants protect  skin by limiting the production of free radicals, which can damage skin  cells. That makes sense when you understand that over 90% of the signs  of aging are caused by free radical damage.

The formation of free  radicals is a widely accepted pivotal mechanism leading to skin aging.  The production of free radicals increases with age, while the endogenous  defense mechanisms that counter them decrease. This imbalance leads to  the progressive damage of cellular structures, and thus, results in  accelerated aging.

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, those  wrinkle-causing baddies produced by sunlight, stress, air pollution, and  other environmental stressors. Some researchers have gone so far as to  say that antioxidant-based products more important than SPFs in battling  aging and cancer, since they create a barrier on the skin to protect  from not only harmful UV rays, but deeper-penetrating IR (infrared) rays  as well.

Topical Care

Antioxidants can come from healthy  eating, but only a small percentage of consumed antioxidants actually  reach the skin, because they primarily act internally in the body.  However, topical antioxidants are available in multivariate combinations  through over-the-counter skin care products that are aimed at  preventing the clinical signs of aging. Wrinkles and fine lines can be  minimized with the use of antioxidants skin care products.

Although  most antioxidants can be used as a single agent, studies have shown  that they work best as a team. Topical application of such combinations  may result in a sustained antioxidant capacity of the skin, possibly due  to antioxidant synergisms.

Topical Antioxidants:
Provide UVA/UVB protection
Stimulate the production of collagen
Alleviate inflammation
Protect against harmful pollutants in the environment like smoke and exhaust
Protect against free radical damage and neutralized reactive oxygen species (ROS)

For  topically administered antioxidants to be effective in preventing skin  aging, a couple of considerations should be made when formulating them:

Product  stabilization is crucial. Because antioxidants are very unstable, they  may become oxidized and inactive before reaching the target.
They  must be properly absorbed into the skin, reach their target tissue in  the active form, and remain there long enough to exert the desired  effects.

By using double layered encapsulation RG-Cell has  effectively improved delivery into dermal layers of the skin. This  recently patented technology, is one of the important factors that gives  RG-Cell it’s potency. Key advantages of double layered  nano-encapsulation are: Helps to deliver the actives into the skin in a  continuous time release effect, high stability and high affinity to the  skin, compatible with all skin types, efficient delivery of therapeutic  cosmetic components into dermal layer.

One challenge of  cosmeceutical product selection is a general lack of published data on  specific formulations, although in many cases there are studies (of  varying levels of quality) suggesting that specific topical agents may  confer benefits to reduce the appearance of signs of photo-damage. Among  the most promising topically applied ingredients currently recommended  by cosmetic dermatologists are antioxidants, botanicals, and peptides.

Given  their potential activity in helping to prevent or minimize UV-induced  damage, these various ingredients are increasingly being incorporated  into formulations with skin care ingredients. This makes them  well-suited for morning application and, as a practical consideration, a  reasonable complement to nightly tretinoin use.

Some of the Most Effective Topical Antioxidants

Vitamin  E: Vitamin E is a principal fat soluble antioxidant vitamin in the  body. It protects cellular membranes, lipoproteins and other “oily”  structures. Skin is high in unsaturated fatty acids (“oily” molecules  especially susceptible to free radical damage), and can benefit from  vitamin E protection. Along with its protective qualities, Vitamin E  possesses some anti-inflammatory effects and aids in moisturizing the  skin.

Vitamin C: Studies have found that Vitamin C improves skin  appearance by reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It also aids in wound  healing as it stabilizes collagen and protects against – or, lessens the  severity of – sunburns. Vitamin C is also necessary for correcting  pigmentation problems and reducing free radicals. It also acts as one of  the most powerful antioxidants available for skin care, and improves  the appearance of skin, prevents wrinkles, and is essential in cell  proliferation.

Retinoic Acid (Retinol): Retinoic acid is the  active form of Vitamin A in the skin and the “gold standard” in  anti-aging skin care. Topical retinoic acid treats fine wrinkles, age  spots, and rough skin caused by sun exposure. In a study published in  the Journal of Dermatological Science, researchers found that treatment  with retinoic acid restored the elastic fibers that keep skin taut, and  reduced the appearance of wrinkles.

Vitamin B: The B vitamins are  essential for cells throughout the body, including skin cells. It’s  important to get enough of foods rich in B vitamins, such as caviar and  fortified grain products, because a B vitamin deficiency can lead to  dry, itchy skin. In one study, researchers in Kawasaki, Japan, found  topical application of an antioxidant derived from vitamin B-6 protected  against sun-induced skin damage and decreased wrinkles.

Coenzyme  Q10: This antioxidant may useful in its ability to regenerate the skin,  and the molecule’s small size makes it easy to absorb. A study  published in the journal Biofactors found that applying coenzyme Q10 to  the skin helped minimize the appearance of wrinkles. Extremely important  for energy and blood circulation, coenzyme Q10 also encourages a  healthy immune system and helps reduce the effects of aging. Soybean  contains moderate amounts of coenzyme Q10, and oranges contain small  amounts.

Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid is an antioxidant found in  the leaves and seeds of various plants. This acid helps to prevent cell  damage caused by ultraviolet light. It is a potent antioxidant and  provides advanced protection from free radical activity. When combined  with Vitamins C and E, ferulic may reduce oxidative stress. It has  anti-inflammatory properties and is effective in neutralizing free  radicals.

All antioxidants will fight free-radical damage, the  differences being which metabolic pathway they utilize to protect the  skin. Many other plant-based extracts are being studied for their  positive effects on the skin, either when ingested or applied topically.  Examples are rosemary, grape seed extract, and soy. Some experts feel  that a blend of many different antioxidants and extracts might be more  effective than individual products.

Benefits of Antioxidants in Skin Care

Anti-inflammation:  One of the most desirable benefits of antioxidants in skin care  products is the calming of inflammation. Some antioxidants produce  valuable anti-inflammatory results by increasing circulation and cell  metabolism. Reducing inflammation promotes more even skin tone and helps  keep acne and wrinkles at bay.

Sun damage repair: When applied  to the skin, antioxidants promote the growth and development of new skin  cells by increasing blood flow to the region. Skin that has become  coarse, wrinkly or inflamed through excessive sun exposure can greatly  benefit from new skin cells. Antioxidants applied to sun damaged skin  promotes the healing and repair of the area and assist the skin to  return to its previous supple state.

Reduced appearance of  wrinkles and increased collagen production: Fine lines and wrinkles are  usual phenomena of the aging process. When free radicals harm the skin  and body, they mainly break down collagen proteins in the body. Collagen  is liable for serving the skin to maintain its softness and assist it  to come into sight more supple and youthful. Free radicals such as  extreme sun exposure can speed up the natural effects of aging. For this  reason, antioxidants found in skin care products can help to ward  against free radicals’ effects, dawdling the look of fine lines and  wrinkles.

Lowers scar visibility: Considering that antioxidants  are explained to have mobile fixing homes, and assist with tissue  progress, more aiding the entire body to fix itself, they can increase  blood movement to the scar tissue, which is a bit more durable than the  typical skin. This attribute may aid in decreasing the visibility of  scars.

Tones up the skin: By improving the health of the skin and  renewing the appearance, antioxidants can help a great deal in toning  and firming the skin. Many moisturizers and skin care products have  antioxidants in them, especially those that are anti-aging in nature.

Realizing  the benefits of antioxidants means supplying our skin with an adequate  supply of antioxidants to counter the effects of free radicals. Be smart  about your skin care and start consuming in more nutritious and  delicious antioxidants to benefit your skin! Taking cosmeceuticals daily  that contain antioxidants are a good way to maintain cellular health.

From RG-Cell.com 

 Winter  weather is not fun for skin. Cold weather and low humidity levels  result in dry air, which then steals moisture away from the skin every  second of every day. Without immediate care, dry skin can lead to  cracking and bleeding, and harsh winter wind makes the problem worse.  Indoor heat further robs the air of moisture, as do hot showers or baths  and harsh cleansers.

Additional  moisture helps, but you need to do more to actually counteract these  effects and keep skin looking youthful and smooth. To reduce chapping,  redness, itching, and keep skin more healthy and comfortable this  season, try these tips.

1. Wash in Lukewarm Water

Hot  showers and baths always feel good in the winter, but when you can,  particularly when just washing your face or hands, choose lukewarm water  to avoid stripping as many oils away from the skin.

2. Moisturize Immediately Afterwards

Your  skin not only needs more moisture, but moisture right after you wash.  Applying moisture to damp skin helps seal that dampness into the skin.  Keep a bottle near the bathtub, shower stall, and at every sink and use  liberally every time you wash.

3. Choose Moisturizer Carefully

Some  over-the-counter moisturizers have petroleum-based ingredients that can  actually further dry your skin in the winter months. Be sure to choose a  smart formula that has natural, nourishing ingredients. Go for an  oil-based rather than a water-based solution, as it’s more likely to  help your skin retain moisture in the winter.

4. Protect

Get  used to wearing gloves and scarves to protect skin from cold winds,  rain, and snow. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen. Winter sun can be just  as damaging as summer sun, so apply a safe option like zinc oxide or  titanium dioxide to any exposed areas.

5. Humidify

Heating  systems dry out the air, so consider installing a humidifier in your  home, particularly in your bedroom, to put moisture back into the air  and help prevent your skin from drying out.

6. Drink

We  tend to drink less water in the winter because we turn to hot drinks  like cocoa and tea, but don’t forget that your skin needs hydration from  the inside, out. A little warm water with lemon can be very refreshing  and hydrating at the same time.

7. Overnight Moisturize

Dryer  areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees have thin skin and tend to  lose moisture faster than other areas on the body. Consider slathering  on a deep moisturizing balm  at night, then wear cotton gloves and socks  to seal in the moisture until morning.

8. Exfoliate

We  often forget to help the skin slough off dead cells in the winter,  particularly on our hands. Yet moisture can’t get in if the dead cells  are too plentiful. Find an exfoliating mask and use it on your face and  your hands, as well as gently on your lips, then follow immediately with  moisture to truly see a smoother difference. Exfoliating body washes  are also helpful in the winter months.

9. Avoid Toxins, Specifically Allergens and Irritants

Particularly  if you have eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis, you have to avoid  allergens and irritants that may trigger a flare up. Winter skin is more  fragile, so avoid irritating fabrics (like wool) and chemical-laden  detergents, and use mild cleansers and moisturizers designed for  sensitive skin.

10. Hydrate From the Inside Out

Eating  foods high in water content can help hydrate your skin from the inside  out. Try watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, oranges, kiwi, and watery  veggies like celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots. Make  sure you’re getting enough vitamin C and zinc to support the healthy  production of collagen and elastin. Alsoconsume more fatty fish and  flaxseed to give your skin the building blocks it needs to appear supple  and smooth.

11. Change Your Cleanser if your skin is drying out

Cleansers  can be extremely drying to the skin. If you’re used to using options  that contain glycolic or salicylic acid, rotate with a more hydrating  version that contains moisturizing ingredients.  After cleansing, don’t  leave the skin naked for more than 30 seconds, as this can dehydrate it,  leading to increased dryness. Apply a hydrating toner and moisturizer  to seal in moisture.

12. Use DIY Masks

Homemade  hydrating masks can provide needed moisture in the winter months. Use  natural moisturizing ingredients like honey, avocado, yogurt, olive and  jojoba oils, almond oil, bananas, and aloe. Mix what you like together  to create a cream or paste, and leave on skin for 10-30 minutes for  lasting hydration.ype your paragraph here.

hear this so often!  Unfortunately, even if you don't smoke or repetitively use a straw,

the natural aging process causes the formations of lines in the peri-oral area. 

As the facial structures change with age, you notice a decrease in volume of the

muscles  around the mouth and jaw.  There is also bone loss associated with the  aging process giving less definition of the jawline.  Loss of volume can  be seen when the lips make a puckering.  The  indentations show areas  of volume loss.  Also as the lip ages, the vermilion boarder flattens or  is lost all together.  Lipstick can start "bleeding" into the peri-oral  lines.  As the muscle looses its structure, support at the corners of  the mouth can also be lost.  This area, the oral commissure, is also  targeted by the aging process.  If there is a large loss of volume and  support, the lines form what are commonly called "marionette" lines.
 

So how do we rejuvenate the mouth to a more youthful appearance? 
Each  patient is an individual.  Depending on the severity of the lines and  loss of volume and support, the correct product is injected to correct  the deficit. 
Will my lips look too big?
No.  Although some  patients desire augmentation of the lips, most just want their lips to  return to "normal".  By injecting the correct product and amount,  rejuvenation or augmentation if desired is achieved.
Can just my lines be filled without my lips being injected?
Yes.  However if your vermillion boarder has been lost, it may be recommended to add a small amount as a "lip liner".
What is the recovery time?
It  is not recommended to exercise after the treatment for 24 hrs.  There  is mild-moderate swelling for 24-48 hrs.  It is fine to go to dinner,  movie, etc...  Ice greatly helps decrease the swelling.  For special  events and weddings, it is recommended to do any type of aesthetic  filler treatment 2 weeks before the event.  Email or call if you would  like to discuss timing or have additional questions. Full instructions  will be given at the office.Volbella is one of the newest products that  can achieve very natural looking results for fine lines and correcting a  deficient vermillion boarder.