Skinceuticals Products Containing Hyaluronic Acids

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Skinceuticals Products Containing Hyaluronic Acids

Skinceuticals Hyaluronic Acid Products

Skinceuticals Hyaluronic Acid Products

As discussed in a previous post, hyaluronic acid is important to maintaining youthful-looking skin. Skinceuticals understands the importance of this, and has a number of products containing the popular skin care ingredient. Below are all the products from the line that do.

Phyto Corrective Gel – A hydrating soothing gel serum with botanical ingredients ideal to calm and hydrate skin while improving visual redness
HA Intensifier – A multi-functional corrective serum to help amplify skin’s hyaluronic acid levels
Hydrating B5 Gel – An oil free hydrating serum replenishes moisture and restores radiance for a smoother complexion
Retexturizing Activator – This oil-free serum gently exfoliates skin and replenishes moisture for radiant, smooth, skin

Each of these products provide all skin types with long-lasting moisture. Ideal for daytime and nighttime use, these products smooth skin texture and plump up the appearance of skin. To find out which one would be best for your skin type, contact our office.

Source: Skinceuticals.com

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Stretch Marks: What Are They & How To Treat Them

Stretch marks, also known as striae, are a type of scarring that occurs on the skin due to a sudden fluctuation in its size. This abrupt change causes the collagen and elastin to rupture, leaving behind narrow lines or streaks as the skin heals. Stretch Marks

Although they can develop anywhere on the body, they usually reside on the abdomen, breasts, and thighs. Stretch marks are most common in women after pregnancy, but they can also develop from rapid weight gain or loss.

When they first show up, they typically have a pinkish, red hue and may feel slightly raised. Eventually, that color will fade and they level off into the skin. Their appearance may improve over time, but as is the case with any scar, they are permanent.

There are some products and treatments however that can make stretch marks less noticeable. They include:

  • Ceramide Moisturizer. This will help hold the skin together and retain moisture.
  • SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. This vitamin C serum helps to improve the appearance of fine lines by firming the skin.
  • Micro-needling. This cosmetic procedure uses a bunch of tiny needles to make small perforations to the skin to induce collagen production. This in turn plumps up the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines.
  • RF Skin Tightening. A noninvasive treatment that heats the under layers of skin to stimulate collagen, causing the skin to look fuller and tighter.
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    With any of these options, it is important to be patient and understand that results will not be seen immediately. If stretch marks are something that is bothering you, contact our office today to see what options are best for your situation specifically.

     

    Source: The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

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    The Importance of Dermoscopy

    Dermoscopy, also known as dermatoscopy, is a noninvasive technique primarily used to examine skin lesions. Utilizing a handheld device called a dermatoscope, the objective is to differentiate between benign and malignant tumors.

    Featuring a high-quality magnifier and a polarized light system, the dermatoscope is able to see areas of the skin not visible to the naked eye. This significantly reduces the rate of unnecessary biopsies and leads to more accurate melanoma detection. Aside from melanoma detection, dermoscopy can also be used to diagnose fungal infections, hair/scalp diseases, warts, and even scabies.

    Dermoscopy

    A provider using a dermatoscope on a patient.

    At our office, all of our providers have been specially trained in dermoscopy. If they notice anything of suspicion, they will follow it very closely. Pictures will be taken, stored, and compared with pictures at the patient’s next visit. If the lesion evolves or changes, it may require a biopsy. If the lesion does not, it most likely is benign.

    As you can see, dermoscopy is an important clinical tool and something that no dermatologist (MD, NP or PA) should go without. If you have something of concern on your skin and would like one of our providers to check it out, contact our office today.

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    Rid Yourself of Acne for the Fall Crunch

    As discussed in a past post, acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people. Although it may only appear on the skin, the effects can go much deeper. Many sufferers deal with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. With the start of the school year, those problems are only amplified.

    So, what exactly causes acne and what can you do to control it? We recently sat down with our aesthetician Lauren Battaglia and asked her just that. Here’s what she had to say…

    “Acne occurs when the pores on the skin become blocked with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells.  This causes the inflammation that appears on the skin. Working as an aesthetician over the years, I have helped a number of patients with varying degrees of acne. I put them on a great regime of treatments and products.”

    Some products that she says are the most effective for combating acne are as follows:

    • SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel – “This cleanser is great because it decongests pores, smooths out skin texture, and brightens the skin. A must for any skin care routine.”
    • SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque – “Amazing mask! I love, love, love it! It decongests the pores as well, removes excess oil and helps to calm the skin.”
    • SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense – “One of my favorite serums! It’s oil-free and helps to reduce the formation of acne. It even improves clogged pores as well.”

     

    Lauren also offers a facial specifically for acne. It consists of a deep, thorough cleansing and extraction that breaks down impurities, sebum, dead skin cells, and blackheads. “It’s really a must for teens or others struggling with stubborn acne,” she says.

    With skin type and acne severity varying from person to person, certain products/treatments may work better for some than others. If you would like to meet with Lauren to discuss a customized skin care regime for yourself, contact our office today.

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    Restore Your Skin’s Natural Beauty With Sublative

    Here at the Lisa S. Ball, NP Building we are committed to providing our patients with the latest and most advanced treatments in skin rejuvenation. The Sublative RF Skin Tightening in particular is probably the most cutting-edge.

    Rather than using laser or light, this procedure harnesses radio frequency energy. The radio frequency energy heats up the underlying layers of skin, stimulating collagen production, leading to more youthful looking skin. Many patients have a noticeable improvement immediately after being treated, and the skin actually continues to improve over the next few months as collagen production increases. In as little as 3-4 treatments, Sublative RF Skin Tightening provides effective acne scar treatment, anti-wrinkle treatment and overall rejuvenation and toning of the skin.

    Sublative Patient Results

    Our patient after four Sublative RF Skin Tightening treatments.

    If you would like to learn more about the process or would like to schedule a free consultation contact our office today.

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    The Truth About Hair Transplantation

    Hair Transplantation is a cosmetic procedure that was first performed in the US in 1952. Typically, the process is done by taking hair follicles from the back of the scalp and moving them to thinning or bald areas on top of the scalp.

    Since its inception, the procedure has evolved significantly over the years. During that time however, some misconceptions developed as well. We decided to set the record straight and debunk some of the more common ones.

    Neiman Hair Transplant Procedure

    Dr. Thomas Chu harvesting from the donor area in an FUT procedure.

    1) The results of a hair transplant are not permanent.

    Actually, since the hair is taken from an area that is genetically programmed to never fall out, the transplanted hair will be there for a lifetime. It is currently the only permanent solution for male or female pattern hair loss.

    2) Hair transplants are not cost effective.

    When considering the long-term benefits of the procedure, you must understand once you have it done, it’s permanent. Relatively speaking, having a hair transplant can be cheaper than years of products and/or treatments done in an attempt to keep or re-grow hair.

    3) The FUE method does not leave behind a scar.

    Not the case. FUE simply does not leave behind a linear scar in the donor area (like FUT). The scarring left behind with FUE presents itself in the form of tiny little dots in the areas of extraction.

    4) After the procedure is done, there is a lot of maintenance and up keep with the transplanted hair.

    Once the transplanted hair begins to grow, there is no special upkeep needed. It’s your own hair, just moved to a different area.

    5) It’s easy to tell if someone has had a hair transplant.

    Though in the past this may have been true, with new advancements and techniques it’s now virtually undetectable.

    6) Anyone with hair loss is a candidate for hair transplantation.

    Not true. There can be a number of contributing factors causing someone’s hair loss. This is especially true with female patients, as they may have uncontrolled thyroid issues which can contribute to their hair loss. This is why we have all our patients undergo extensive blood work prior to moving forward with a hair transplant procedure.

    Hopefully this list provided you with a little reassurance when it comes to hair transplants and if you have any additional questions contact our office today!

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    Eczema Tips

    As discussed in a previous post, eczema is an autoimmune skin condition that can be worsened by certain irritants. The key to managing eczema is to avoid those irritants and appropriately care for your skin. Some ways to do that include…

    Caring for Eczema

    • MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE!!!!!!!!! Use either a cream or lotion, depending on which is best for your skin specifically.
    • Moisturize immediately after showering and then as needed throughout the day. Try using Cetaphil or Cerave.
    • Take cooler, shorter showers. Will help prevent your skin from being stripped from too much moisture.
    • Wash with gentle soaps. Dove soap, Purpose bar soap or Basis bar soap are all great options.
    • Soak in bath oils. Soothes the skin and helps to alleviate itching.
    • Put a humidifier in the bedroom. Adds moisture to the air, thus providing the skin with more hydration.
    • Clean your clothes with products that are fragrance and dye free. Try Tide (free & gentle) detergent, Downy (free & gentle) fabric softener, and Bounce (free & gentle) dryer sheets.

     

    Since eczema is a chronic skin condition it is also important to use medications prescribed as directed. With effective treatment, you can keep eczema under control.

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    Nail Facts

    As described in a previous post, Nail Health Care Tips, nails can provide insight into our overall health. Changes that develop in the nail can indicate an underlying condition that may require immediate medical attention. This makes understanding them so important.

    Nails themselves can be described as the thin transparent plate that covers the upper surface at the end of a finger or toe. Consisting of the nail plate, the nail matrix, and the nail bed, the primary objective is to protect the tip of the finger or toe and surrounding areas from injury. Due to this functionality, any abnormalities of the nail can result in further, more serious problems.

    Listed below are some facts taken from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) to provide better understanding about your nails and how they work.

  • Nails grow roughly 1mm each week. 
  • Fingernails grow faster than toenails, especially on your dominant hand. 
  • Nails grow more rapidly in summer than in winter. 
  • Nail problems make up about 10% of all dermatological conditions. 
  • Nail problems usually increase throughout life and affect a high number of senior citizens. 
  • Fungal infections cause about half of all nail disorders. They are more common in toenails because the toes are confined in a warm, moist, weight-bearing environment. 
  • Discoloration in the nail bed may signify oxygen deprivation. 
  • Although very rare, melanomas can actually grow under the nail and are commonly mistaken for an injury. 
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    If you are experiencing any concerns or issues with your nails contact our office right away for successful diagnosis and treatment.

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    Keeping Up With Psoriasis

    Back in 2011, reality star Kim Kardashian announced that she suffers from psoriasis. Since that time, she has been influential in raising awareness about the condition. Recently, she shared a shocking photo on her Instagram that brought attention back to it.

    Kim Kardashian Psoriasis Instagram

    Kim Kardashian showing signs of psoriasis flare-up from recent Instagram post. Source: Kim Kardashian/Instagram

    As you can see, the photo shows textbook psoriasis flareups all over her face. A lot of people found the photo quite shocking and can’t believe how she is regularly able to conceal it.

    Psoriasis is a common skin condition that affects more than 8 million Americans. Typically developing between the ages of 15-25, symptoms consist of skin redness and irritation with silver-colored scales. Usually occurring on the scalp, face, hands, elbows, knees, and feet, it is believed to occur when the body’s immune system mistakes healthy cells for dangerous or harmful substances.

    A common misconception is that psoriasis is contagious, this is not the case. Some things that can contribute to worsening the condition though include too much exposure to sunlight, consumption of alcohol, and even stress. It can be treated in many different ways, with the most common options being topical ointments or creams, lotions, and shampoos.

    Psoriasis Patient

    Lisa S. Ball, NP psoriasis patient after treatment.

    Taking care of your skin by regularly moisturizing and cleaning the affected area can also help in maintaining and reducing flare-ups. Although there is no way to prevent psoriasis, there are many ways to manage and treat the condition.

     

    Source: National Psoriasis Foundation

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    Topical Steroid Addiction

    Topical corticosteroids (steroids) are a common treatment option for a variety of dermatological conditions. The reason is that they promote anti-inflammatory responses by suppressing the immune system’s response. Typically prescribed for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, eczema, and rashes, if prescribed appropriately they can yield very effective results.

    This effectiveness however can lead to patients developing a dependency on them. Initially, after stopping the topical steroid, the condition may come back with a vengeance. So quite often, people will continue to apply the steroid even after the condition clears, and in doing so, severe side effects can arise.  Examples include, atrophy of the skin (the consistency in the area of skin where the cream was used becomes comparable to saran wrap) or striae (thick red lines that look like stretch marks). A way to avoid potential addiction is through the use of a stagger program. This can be done by using the topical steroid twice a day for two weeks, then taking one week off.

    Although topical steroids are an effective option, if not administered properly it can lead to serious issues.

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