5 Benefits of Exfoliation

Exfoliation is a process that removes dead skin cells from the upper layer of the skin, revealing the healthy skin underneath. Regular exfoliation can help keep skin looking fresh, removing any dry patches or flakiness. In addition to cleansing your skin, exfoliating on a regular basis (once or twice a week at home and once or twice a month professionally) can improve the results of your skin care routine and help rejuvenate your skin. 

Whether you have dry, normal, oily or sensitive skin, exfoliation can bring new life to your complexion. The removal of dead skin cells helps keep pores from becoming clogged and leaves skin with a refreshed and clean feeling. Why would you want clean and clear pores? Clogged pores can result in blackheads and acne. Likewise, when pores are clogged, they appear larger. Although you cannot reduce the actual size of your pores, you can help to minimize their appearance by keeping them clog-free.

In addition to the immediate visual benefits of exfoliation, the removal of dead skin cells speeds up the skin renewal process, allowing smoother, healthier skin cells to take their place. Not only will this help with fine lines and wrinkles, but it will help to lessen discoloration as well.

There are two basic types of exfoliants: physical exfoliants and chemical exfoliants. Physical exfoliants work to remove dead skin cells by friction. Examples of physical exfoliants include scrubs, microdermabrasion, and dermaplaning. Chemical exfoliants do the work for you by essentially dissolving the "glue" that is binding the dead cells to your skin. Enzymes, chemical peels, and acids are examples of chemical exfoliants. A combination of both physical and chemical exfoliation is an ideal way to address damage in the skin from the top down, as well as from the bottom up.

Top 5 Benefits of Exfoliation

1. Improves the results of your skin care products

2. Keeps your pores from clogging, keeping acne under control

3. Speeds up the skin renewal process, allowing smoother, healthier skin cells to take their place

4. Helps to lessen skin discoloration (uneven skin tone)

5. Leads to visibly brighter skin and softens fine lines and wrinkles

Top 5 Skin Care Products of 2012

‘Tis the season of countdown lists. Here is Fresh Faced Skin Care’s top selling skin care products for 2012:

#5 Hydrating Moisturizer by Skin Script: Hydrate and protect skin with the healing benefits of shea butter. Seaweed binds moisture within the skin while aloe soothes, calms and provides hydration. Rose Hip strengthens capillaries and soothes inflamed skin. It promotes deep hydration that protects from environmental damage while relieving the surface signs of aging.

#4 Clearskin Moisturizer by PCA SKIN: This antibacterial hydrator is scientifically formulated with retinol, marigold, lemongrass and cucumber to help soothe irritation, fight bacteria and inhibit breakouts. It promotes a healthy, clear complexion in oily and blemish-prone skin.

#3 Eyexcellence Eye Cream by PCA SKIN: This triple-action eye cream reduces puffiness, dark circles and wrinkles around the eye area. Its combination of three peptides increases collagen production, capillary function and circulation to leave the eye area smooth, even and bright. Moisturizing properties leave skin healthy and hydrated.

#2 Perfecting Protection SPF30 by PCA SKIN: This revolutionary broad-spectrum UVA/UVB product works to reduce existing skin discoloration while preventing future hyperpigmentation. In addition, potent antioxidants, caffeine and milk thistle work to fight damaging environmental free radicals, inflammation and the formation of sunburn cells. Perfecting protection SPF30 is suitable for all skin types.

#1 Blemish Control Cleanser by Skin Script: This raspberry-based acne control cleanser will increase cellular turnover bringing oil and debris to the surface of the skin; salicylic then dries the uplifted oil. Tea tree calms and soothes the skin.

Fresh Faced Skin Care would like to thank all of our loyal clients. Your business is very much appreciated. Enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season.

Call 302-689-3223 to order or go online at www.freshfacedkincare.com

Why Get Facial Treatments?

The largest organ in our body is our skin. Our skin acts as a protection from the harmful invasion of foreign substances and helps the body to excrete waste products. Therefore, our skin needs to be protected at all times. There are various ways to protect our skin from external factors that can threaten its integrity. Eating the right kind of foods, regular exercise, getting enough sleep, proper hydration, and wearing sunscreen are important ways to keep our skin healthy. However, having a regular facial treatment from a trusted esthetician is a very vital step towards healthy skin for both men and women.

When was the last time you had a facial treatment? A facial is one of the best ways to take care of your skin, especially when it's given by an experienced, knowledgeable esthetician. A facial treatment offers you the chance to work with a professional skin care specialist who will analyze your skin type, help you improve imperfections, and show you the methods on how to care for your skin properly.

Five Benefits of Professional Facial Treatments:

·         Increases the circulation and stimulates the skin.

·         Delays the premature aging process by custom-targeting your unique skin care.

·         Guarantees you a deep cleansing better that the type of cleansing you typically do at home. It includes cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration which can help to unclog your pores and get rid of deep seated dirt and impurities that affect the overall health and appearance of your skin.

·         Helps you understand the proper products specifically suited for your skin. Many people are using the wrong products for their skin type, causing their skin to become sensitized. Look for a good esthetician who will give you a home care regimen that will work best for the type of skin you have.

·         Rejuvenates your complexion. It is one of the best ways to restore your skin's natural glow. Facial treatments help get rid of old, dead skin cells and will promote the new growth of healthy cells.

How Often Should I Get A Facial?

It is advisable to get at least one facial treatment every month because that's how long it takes the skin to regenerate. Try to have a facial at least four times a year, as the season changes. You may need it more frequently if you are trying to clear up a case of acne, especially at the beginning. It is important in maintain the health of your skin. It is also equally important to maintain a healthy skin care regimen to delay the signs of aging and fight the damaging effects of the external environment.

M is for Melasma

What is it?

Melasma is a very common patchy brown or tan facial skin discoloration. 90% of all cases are seen in women. It typically appears on the upper cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and chin. An estimated 50 million women worldwide live with melasma.

What causes it?

Melasma is thought to be triggered by several factors: pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy (HRT and progesterone), family history of melasma, and medications that make the skin more prone to pigmentation after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Uncontrolled sunlight exposure is considered the leading cause of melasma, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition to this condition. Clinical studies have shown that individuals typically develop melasma in the summer months, when the sun is most intense. In the winter, the hyperpigmentation in melasma tends to be less visible or lighter.

How can I treat it?

The most common therapies to help lighten melasma are 2% hydroquinone (HQ) creams and prescription 4% HQ creams. Sunscreen should be used every morning and sun avoidance should be practiced whenever possible. Other therapies include:

• Azelaic acid 15%-20%
• Retinoic acid 0.025%-0.1% (tretinoin)
• Tazarotene 0.5%-0.1% (Tazorac cream or gel)
• Adapalene 0.1%-0.3% (Differin gel)
• Kojic acid
• Lactic acid lotions 12%
• Glycolic acid 10%-20% creams 

In conjunction with home cream applications, in-office treatments include chemical peels (chemical exfoliation), microdermabrasion (mechanical exfoliation), and laser therapy.

Lasers may be used in melasma. Laser therapy is not the primary choice to treat melasma as studies reveal little to no improvement in the hyperpigmentation for most patients. Lasers may actually temporarily worsen some types of melasma and should be used with caution. Multiple laser treatments may be necessary to see results, as treatments are most effective when they are repeated.

Oxygen Skin Treatment Benefits

One of the basic building blocks of human life, oxygen has been researched by the medical and health industries for many years. Oxygen treatment, one of the newest areas in skin care, was initially used for post-operative laser treatment. It has been shown to reduce recovery time after laser and cosmetic surgery, particularly when used in the early healing stages. This therapy has been adapted and is now being used in the skin care industry.

Many spas are now offering oxygen treatments and facials. Oxygen is used in conjunction with vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids to nourish and refresh skin cells. Introducing oxygen to the skin cells also helps to control and reduce acne-causing bacteria.

How do oxygen treatments work? At the cellular level, oxygen will attach to collagen and elastin molecules, making these fibers stronger. This helps to increase the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Oxygen is also used to detoxify the skin by washing away harmful toxins and replacing them with healthy nutrients. The oxygen propels these nutrients to the skin cells. This promotes healing, moisturizing, firming, and conditioning. Whether male or female, young or old, an oxygen skin treatment can be an effective and relaxing process.

4 Reasons to get Oxygen Skin Treatments:

1. As we age, oxygen levels in the skin decrease. Our capillaries become fewer and less flexible, so the oxygen does not pass through properly. This decreases cell function. A gray, dull look to the skin and loss of vitality are signs of lack of oxygen in the skin that can make the skin more prone to aging.

2. Oxygen is safe, natural and highly effective at killing bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria cannot survive in the presence of oxygen. Oxygen is one of the best disinfectants and helps with even the most stubborn cases of acne.

3. Oxygen treatments are safe for pregnant women that have problems with breakouts and pigmentation.

4. Oxygen promotes healing in post surgery and with healing of new scars by speeding up the healing process, decreasing scarring and bruising.  

Ingredient Spotlight: Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) found in skin rejuvenation products and treatments. It is considered to be a gentle, yet very effective anti-aging treatment. Derived from milk, lactic acid is well known for its skin hydrating properties and is one of the gentler AHA exfoliants.

The use of lactic acid dates back to Cleopatra, who legend has it, luxuriated in milk baths filled with rose petals. At this point, you might be tempted to jump in the bath with a glass of milk as well, but lactic acid doesn't necessarily work that way (if only it were that easy). However, there are a number of useful treatments and products that contain lactic acid.

Sharing the similar skin rejuvenation traits of glycolic acid, lactic acid skin care is known for:

• diminishing fine lines and wrinkles
• reducing the appearance of age spots
• reducing hyperpigmentation
• improving skin texture
• stimulating collagen production

Typically found as an active anti-aging ingredient in professional treatments, lactic acid is noted for its rich moisturizing attributes and its ability to exfoliate dead skin cells without provoking skin irritation. Because of this, lactic acid is an excellent option for sensitive skin types.

Lactic acid peels are just one type of chemical peel, but they are preferred by many -- again, because of lactic acid's reputation as a gentler AHA. You can use peels to improve wrinkles, some types of acne and discolorations on your skin. Lactic acid isn't a cure-all -- it won't suddenly remove your deepest wrinkles, and it can't stop you from aging. But over time, it can smooth the tone and condition of your face and reduce or remove mild marks and scars. Lactic acid peels are generally part of a series, depending on your desired result. In addition, sun sensitivity is a common side effect of lactic acid peels, so limit your time in the sun and always wear sunscreen!

A is for Acne

Acne is a common, yet often misunderstood, skin condition. Did you know that Dermatologists classify acne into four grades? The classification system is based on a simple visual inspection of the skin. Knowing the grade of your acne is an important step in treating acne. All acne grades require different treatment methods. The four grades of Acne are described below:

Grade I

Grade I is the mildest form of acne. There may be a few small whiteheads, blackheads and papules (red pimples) in small number. There is no inflammation in Grade I acne.

Grade II

Grade II is considered moderate acne. This stage consists of blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules (inflamed papule with white or yellow center containing pus), and redness. They will appear with greater frequency, and general breakout activity will be more obvious. Slight inflammation of the skin is now apparent.

Grade III

This type of acne is considered severe. The main difference between Grade II and Grade III acne is the amount of inflammation present. The skin is now obviously reddened and inflamed. This is the most common grade of acne and has a higher risk of scarring and deep pitting.

Grade IV

The most severe form of acne, Grade IV is often referred to as cystic acne. The skin will display numerous papules, pustules, and nodules, in addition to cysts (a closed sac of fluid/infection under the skin. They are tender, painful and cannot be extracted). There is a pronounced amount of inflammation and breakouts are severe. Cystic acne is very painful.

Acne of this severity usually extends beyond the face, and may affect the entire back, chest, shoulders, and upper arms. The infection is deep and widespread. Nearly all cystic acne sufferers develop scarring.