How to Care for Your Skin at the Gym

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How to Care for Your Skin at the Gym

With COVID-19 vaccination rates increasing, more people are heading back to the gym. Aside from the obvious health benefits of going, there are however some things to be aware of in regards to your skin.Woman at gym

As you may know, gyms can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Some of which, can lead to a number of different skin infections. These include:

  • Fungal Infections – Whether it’s ringworm or athlete’s foot, these funguses thrive in wet/moist environments. Locker rooms and showers are the most common places for these to be located.
  • Bacterial Infections – This mainly includes staph or folliculitis. Both of which are usually transmitted through open cuts, wounds, sores, or even a hair follicle root.
  • Viral Infections – Plantar warts are the most common. These can get in through open wounds or cuts in the feet.

Pretty shocking stuff to say the least.  So, what are some things you can do to protect your skin the next time you go to the gym? The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends these tips:

1) Clean and disinfect all equipment/weights before & after use. Although it’s been determined by health officials that surface sanitization isn’t of the utmost importance when it comes to COVID-19, it does have a lot of significance for the skin. A recent study conducted by FitRated determined that there are 362 times more bacteria on free weights than on a toilet seat.

2) Always wash or sanitize your hands. This one goes without explanation.

3) Wear loose-fitting, moisture-wicking clothes. This will help keep the skin dry and prevent bacteria from growing. Remember to wash gym clothes after each wear.

4) Always wear footwear in locker rooms and showers (especially around pools). Keep a pair of shower shoes, flip-flops, or sandals in your gym bag. Never walk around barefoot in a gym!

5) Keep any cuts clean and covered. Avoid using saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs until your wound is healed.

6) Shower as soon as possible after. When done showering, put on clean clothes, including clean socks and underwear. And never share personal care items, including towels and razors.

All in all, if you find yourself getting back into the routine of going to the gym again, don’t forget the health of your skin.

Source: The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

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Product of the Month: SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

With June being Acne Awareness Month, we thought what better time than now to highlight our new skincare product from SkinCeuticals, Silymarin CF.

Taking over six years to develop, this breakthrough vitamin C serum was specifically formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin. The ingredients of l-ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, salicylic acid, and silymarin (milk thistle extract) all help to prevent oil oxidation. Which in turn lowers the possibility of breakouts. Aside from that, it can also significantly improve skin texture, clarity, radiance, and fine lines.

With all that SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF can do, it’s easy to see why it’s the perfect product for those dealing with acne. If you would like more information about this, or any of our other products, call 716-688-0020 or click here.

Source: SkinCeuticals.com

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Skin Cancer Prevention & Detection

With this month being Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to emphasize the significance of protecting your skin and getting an annual skin examination. It is estimated that over three million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. That means roughly one in five people in the U.S. will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime.

So, what can you do to take care of your skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer? Here are some tips from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) on how to do just that:

Seek shade (when appropriate). Keep in mind that the sun’s harmful UV rays are most prevalent from 10am-2pm.
Wear sun-protective clothing. Clothes that cover exposed areas of skin are ideal (ex. a long-sleeved shirt, pants, wide-brimmed hat).
Apply sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant one with an SPF of at least 30.

Since skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early, we encourage our patients to get their skin examined at least once a year. Whereas patients with a history of concerning lesions are seen more regularly. When conducting a skin cancer examination, we adhere to the ABCDEs of melanoma. They are as follows:

Skin Cancer Screening

A = Asymmetry. In early forms, malignant melanomas are asymmetrical, meaning that you cannot draw a line down the middle and have equal parts on each side.
B = Border. Uneven borders with irregularities or blurs.
C = Color. Varying shades of brown, blue, or black.
D = Diameter. Melanoma tends to be larger than normal moles, ones the size of a pencil eraser are something that you should look at closely.
E = Evolving. Any changes in the size, shape, color, or feel.

As you can see, there are some ways to reduce your risk of skin cancer. And even for those diagnosed with it, there is hope, but early detection is crucial. If you notice a suspicious spot, or would just like to have your skin evaluated, contact our office today.

Source(s): aad.org, skincancer.org

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Importance of Vitamin C for the Skin

Woman vitamin C

Our skin is naturally built to repair, but sometimes things in our daily routine (ie. sun exposure) can still lead to premature skin aging and damage. That’s why regularly using a product containing vitamin C, an antioxidant that our bodies do not naturally produce, can be so beneficial.

As one of the best anti-aging ingredients out there, vitamin C is also a natural sun protectant. Because of this, we encourage our patients to apply it first thing in the morning. And regular use can even promote collagen growth! It is important to note, however, that vitamin C for the skin must be properly formulated. If not, the benefits will not be as significant. That’s why we like SkinCeuticals vitamin C antioxidants. Their line in particular goes through a rigorous development process that ensures optimal results (all of their vitamin C serums are backed by 30 years of antioxidant research and demonstrated efficacy in independent clinical studies).

As you can see, vitamin C is an essential ingredient in any skincare regimen. Call our office or click here to find out which of SkinCeuticals vitamin C serums is right for you.

 

Source: SkinCeuticals

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Why the HydraFacial is the Perfect Treatment for Rosacea

With April being Rosacea Awareness Month, we thought it would be a great opportunity to highlight the condition and explore an effective treatment option for it.

So, what is rosacea exactly? Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that causes redness and swelling on the face. Symptoms can range from pimples, lines, and visible blood vessels to dry skin with persistent redness. While there is no cure for the condition, the HydraFacial is a popular option for our patients with rosacea.

As a facial treatment, the HydraFacial helps to gently soothe, moisturize, and comfort the skin. All of which are ideal for those dealing with rosacea. And the Deluxe HydraFacial in particular takes it all to the next level! Offering all the benefits of the basic HydraFacial, the Deluxe includes a booster that is specifically customized for the patient’s skin and LED light therapy that helps to reduce any redness or inflammation. Results are seen immediately after treatment and in some cases can last up to four weeks!

HydraFacial Treatment

If you would like to learn more about the HydraFacial at the Lisa S. Ball, NP Building in Buffalo, NY, and how it can help with your rosacea, call 716-688-0020 or click here.

 

Source: www.rosacea.org

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Product of the Month: SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel

SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel

The transition from the cold, harsh winter weather can be very tough on the skin. That’s why for the month of March, we decided to go green with our skincare in the form of the SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel!

The SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel is a soothing green gel serum that calms and hydrates the skin while improving visible redness. Containing hyaluronic acid, cucumber, thyme, and mulberry this product is the perfect moisturizer for those with sensitive, acne-prone skin. The cucumber and thyme help to soothe and calm the skin, while the mulberry helps to even the skin tone out. The skin is left looking noticeably refreshed and hydrated.

It’s a very popular option for patients after treatments like chemical peels, micro-needling, and Sublative RF Skin Tightening. “A lot of my patients use it after micro-needling,” says aesthetician Lauren Battaglia. “They love how it feels and it really makes a big difference minimizing the appearance of any redness that occurs after treatment.”

As you can see, the SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel is the perfect skincare product as we transition into spring. For more information, call us at 716-688-0020 or click here.

Source: SkinCeuticals.com

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Importance of Using Hydrating Products this Winter

Cold temps, low humidity, harsh winds, and dry indoor heat are all common this time of year. All of which can deplete your skin of necessary moisture. This is why it is so important to use a product (or products) that provides lasting hydration. SkinCeuticals in particular offers a number of facial moisturizers that are great for just that! Some of our favorites include:

Woman in winter

  • Daily Moisture. A lightweight, long-lasting moisturizer that hydrates all while reducing the appearance of enlarged pores (for normal to oily skin).
  • Emollience. A great everyday moisturizer that combines natural extracts and essential oils to help restore and maintain daily moisture (for normal to dry skin).
  • Hydrating B5 Gel. An oil-free serum that combines vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid. This helps to replenish moisture and restore radiance for a smoother complexion (ideal for acne-prone skin).
  • Metacell Renewal B3. A comprehensive daily moisturizer, that is specifically formulated to improve the appearance of early signs of aging on the skin.

As you can see, hydrating products can help immensely to combat the harsh elements of the season. For more information on the products above and to find out which is best for you, call us at 716-688-0020 or click here.

Source: SkinCeuticals.com

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Winter Weather Skin Care

Winter can be a tough time of year on the skin. The cold air, wind, and indoor heat can all wreak havoc. There are some ways to combat this, however. Here are some tips that will help you keep your skin hydrated and looking great this season:

Winter Woman Skin

  • Limit time bathing or showering. Prolonged exposure to water can strip the skin of natural, necessary oils. This can leave the skin dry, cracked, and irritated (especially for those who suffer from eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea). Try limiting the time in the bath or shower to 5-10 minutes.
  • When bathing or showering, use warm or lukewarm water instead of hot. The warmer the water, the more likely it will irritate the skin.
  • After bathing or showering, pat your skin dry with a towel, don’t rub. The process of rubbing can lead to skin irritation.
  • Apply a moisturizer while your skin is still wet. This will help to lock in moisture and prevent the skin from drying out.
  • Apply sunscreen daily to exposed areas of skin (even if it’s cloudy). Harmful UV rays are still able to penetrate cloud coverage. And if there is snow on the ground, it can actually multiply that UV exposure. This is because the snow reflects the sun’s rays. So you are not only getting hit from above but the ground as well.
  • Use a humidifier. Adds moisture to the air helping to prevent the skin from drying out.
  • Use PCA Skin Dry Skin Relief Bar. This product is one of our favorites for the winter! Not only because it improves dry skin, but also because it helps to soothe the entire body (even the scalp).
  • Get a HydraFacial. The drying effects of winter can make skin look dull. The gentle treatment of a HydraFacial will give it a much-needed boost of hydration and refreshment. After just one treatment, results are seen immediately.

If the winter weather is giving your skin trouble, contact our office today and let us help.

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Thanksgiving Foods That Can Benefit Your Skin

With Thanksgiving this week, there are sure to be plenty of delicious dishes on the horizon. And while overindulgence may be an unwritten rule of the holiday, it’s not all bad because some of those same foods can also be good for your skin. That’s right! It turns out that some turkey day staples can help your skin. So, we put together a list of some foods that your skin will be thankful for:

Thanksgiving Plate

  • Sweet Potatoes. They are full of vitamin C, which can help to smooth out wrinkles by stimulating the production of collagen.
  • Green beans. Contains antioxidants that are very beneficial to anti-aging.
  • Pumpkin. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E which help to protect the skin.
  • Cinnamon. Helps to improve circulation and can help prevent acne.
  • Cranberries. Contains vitamin C and antioxidants which can keep skin firm and prevent wrinkles.
  • Apples. Excellent source of mandelic acids, which helps to reduce skin discolorations.
  • Carrots. Loaded with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that fights against the effects of aging.

So, remember, as you’re enjoying your meal this Thanksgiving, your skin may be benefiting as well!

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Viviscal PRO Now Available At Our Office

Are you like the millions of men and women dealing with hair loss? If so, there is a new option available at our office to address it. It’s called Viviscal PRO.

Viviscal PROSo What Is Viviscal PRO?

Viviscal PRO is a 100% drug-free hair growth supplement that is clinically proven to promote existing hair growth.

 

How Does It Work?

Viviscal PRO supplements work in four stages. First, they provide nourishment to the hair follicles. Then, from that increased nourishment, thin and wispy hair is strengthened. After that, breakage and thinning continue to decline, helping to encourage existing hair growth. Patients are then left with hair that appears stronger, healthier, and more vibrant.

 

How Often To Take It?

Take two tablets a day. Once in the morning and once at night. Try to space about 12 hours apart, taking with food and water.

 

How Quickly Will I See Results?

Results can be seen as soon as three months, depending on the patient’s hair growth cycle. Despite this, we suggest taking it for at least six months to know if it is working for you.

Viviscal Patient Results

A patient 3 months after starting Viviscal

Are There Any Restrictions To Taking It?

Viviscal PRO is not recommended for individuals with a fish or seafood allergy, women who are pregnant or nursing, or anyone under the age of 18.

 

As you can see, Viviscal PRO is an effective option for both men and women dealing with hair loss. For best results, pair Viviscal PRO supplements with the Viviscal PRO Thin to Thick Shampoo and Conditioner. If you would like to learn more about Viviscal PRO contact our office today.

Source: www.viviscal.com

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