Radiant Skin Clinic

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Are Enlarged Pores a Problem?

This is a common issue I hear from many of my clients and it seems no matter where I go, when someone finds out what I do for a living, questions such as this come up. “My pores are so big, I’m always washing my face, what can I do to make them smaller? Well, there are some steps you can take to minimize the look of pores and there are some professional services you can get to shrink the pores back to their original size. Please note, I state “original size” because genetic pore size cannot be changed however our lifestyle plays a very important role in whether pores (especially on the nose and chin) get mis-shapen and enlarged over time. Enlarged pores leads to blackheads and uneven looking texture. Below are common at home steps you can take and professional treatment recommendations you can get for smoother more refined skin.

“A clean pore always looks smaller than a dirty one” so in that respect, using cleansing products that aid in softening sebum (oil) and dead skin cells that get trapped in the pores is the first step. Most cleansers are not equipped to do this job. I recommend using a cleanser that contains two main ingredients: glycolic acid and salicylic acid. These two ingredients, in small percentages, get the job done without irritating the skin or causing excessive dryness. Glycolic acid breaks down dead skin cells allowing them to be removed from the surface of the skin easily while salicylic acid (an oil-loving acid) softens the oils trapped in pores (saponification) for effective unclogging.

Some cleansers that fit this bill are: CELLective AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, Gly/Sal 10-2 Cleanser, Glytone Acne Clearing Cleanser

After we have effectively cleansed the skin removing dead skin cells and oil, it’s time to tighten down the pores on a temporary daily basis, this requires a toner. Toners can have many jobs such as pH rebalancing, shrinking pores or further exfoliation. In the spirit of this discussion, we want to focus on a toner that has ingredients that shrink pore size.

Toners that fit this bill are: GlyDerm Solution Plus 12%, Glytone Acne Cleansing Toner, CELLective Skin Vitality Toner, Obagi Nu-Derm Toner, PCA Smoothing Toner

Finally, using a tinted moisturizer (subtle coverage) or liquid foundation fills in and smooths over the pores for a “finished” look. Men can get away with using a tinted moisturizer that does not leave a “makeup” look to the skin but effectively hydrates and protects the skin. Women are inclined to use either one. For those of you out there that are thinking “I use a mineral powder” unfortunately this does nothing for enlarged pores. If you want to use a tinted moisturizer and then your mineral powder over it, that works! There are tinted moisturizers and foundations out there that also have built-in sunscreen which will make your dermatologist very happy too.

Tinted Moisturizers and Liquid Foundations that fit this bill are: EltaMD UV Clear 46 Tinted (acne/rosacea prone skin), EltaMD UV Daily 40 Tinted (normal/dry skin), IntelliShade SPF 45 Sheer Foundation (color corrects itself), IntelliShade Matte SPF 45 Foundation (color corrects itself), EltaMD UV Physical 41 Tinted or Image Prevention+ Daily Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30

Now, on to some professional treatments that take reducing pore size to the next level. This level permanently reduces enlarged pores down to their original size. I recommend a series of low dose chemical peels followed by a subsequent peel every three months. In between your chemical peels, adding in a microdermabrasion improves the skin further. Professional facials on a regular basis also helps keep the pores clean. Extractions done by a Skin Care Professional safely cleans the pores without damaging or enlarging them further. Squeezing blackheads at home is the #1 culprit of enlarged pores. If you suffer from enlarged pores AND acne scarring, MicroNeedling (collagen induction therapy) is the perfect treatment for your needs.

We hope this information helps clear up the “large pores” question so many of you may have.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

What do you recommend I do for a brown spot under my eye?

We, at MDSkinShop.com, get questions from individuals several times a day on skin concerns they have and with the plethora of products available, they are not sure what they should use. Here is one of THE most common questions we get, in one of our customers own words:

Hi Carey:

I have placed several orders with you in past and always trust your professional opinion when it comes to my skin. As you know, I have had concerns about the lines I am seeing around my eyes and how dull my skin looks lately and the products you recommended have really made a difference. Now I am noticing a spot under my left eye that is getting darker. It is summer and I have been spending a lot of time out in my garden so I think that is why is seems darker. What would you recommend to fade, or even better remove, this spot?

Cheers, Barb (we removed her last name)

Brown spots and freckles have a way of rearing their ugly head in the summer simply because the UVA rays of the sun darken the photodamage that is already on the surface of the skin. It is much less noticeable in the winter when the skin returns to its natural color. As time goes on, these spots become darker until they get to the point where the spot is noticeable all the time. That is usually when most people decide to look for ways to get rid of it.

The options out there are:

Lightening:
Lighten the dark spots out with skin lighteners usually containing hydroquinone, licorice extract, bearberry extract, kojic acid and alpha hydroxy acids. These products work relatively slowly and only lighten the spot out. As soon as the skin is exposed to UVA rays without adequate sun protection - BOOM! they are right back in all their glory.

IPL:
IPL stands for Intense Pulse Light. This is usually performed in a physician's office or in a medical spa that is equipped with a machine. IPL is different than a laser but many people tend to use the terms interchanging. IPL zaps the spot and disperses the melanin accumulation in the spot. Over a short period of time, the melanin that is scattered sloughs off the skin's surface. New skin forms that is not photodamaged. IPL can be quite expensive and painful.

High Frequency:
The machine uses a high frequency current that delivers a precise current through a microneedle to cauterize the growth. As the irregularity is removed, a natural scab develops. Within a few days, the scab will fall off and be replaced by healthy new skin. In most cases, one treatment is all that is needed in order to remove the pigmentation. Like IPL, high frequency disperses the melanin clumping in the brown spot pulling it to the surface of the skin where it healed out naturally. A pink spot will be left after the brown spot heals. This is new skin and will change to the color of the surrounding skin in a few weeks time. High frequency is very affordable, no down time and takes only a few minutes to remove. Pain wise, it feels like a bee sting.

High Frequency is also used for the treatment and removal of lesions such as broken capillaries (telangiectasias), cholesterol deposits, seborrheic keratosis, cherry angiomas, sebaceous hyperplasia, clogged pores, deep blackheads, white heads (milia) and skin tags.

Choosing the right treatment for your skin is between you and your skin care specialist. Treatment is usually based on downtime, money and the amount of photodamage. For example, if your skin is speckeled with little brown spots or intermingled between little spots and larger spots, treatment with lightening agents or peels is an appropriate option. If you only have one or two spots, high frequency may be suitable. If you have three or four larger spots, IPL may be the best alternative for your needs. Sometimes combination therapies are warranted - which would require a discussion with your skin care specialist.

The Health Benefits of Epsom Salt

The Health Benefits of Epsom Salt:

Epsom Salt is a naturally occurring pure mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. Studies have shown that magnesium and sulfate are both readily absorbed through the skin, making Epsom salt baths an easy and ideal way to enjoy the amazing health benefits.

Magnesium plays a number of roles in the body including regulating the activity of over 325 enzymes, reducing inflammation, helping muscle and nerve function and helping to prevent artery hardening. Sulfates help improve the absorption of nutrients, flush toxins and help ease migraine headaches. Most people do not realize that we get very little Magnesium in our diet requiring supplementation of Magnesium and Sulfur. We recommend Myo-Mag dietary supplementation along with use of Epsom Salt either in the form of a foot bath or in bath water for soaking of body parts that need pain relief, muscle relaxation and whole body absorption of additional magnesium and sulfur.

What are the health benefits of using Epsom salt?

Some of the countless health benefits include relaxing the nervous system, curing skin problems, soothing back pain and aching limbs, easing muscle strain, healing cuts, treating cold and congestion, and drawing toxins from the body. One of the simplest ways to ease stress and stress-related problems is to soak in a tub full of hot water with a few cups of Epsom Salt. Some of the magical benefits of Epsom salt include:

Eases stress and relaxes the body

Stress drains the body of magnesium and increases levels of adrenaline. When dissolved in warm water, Epsom salt is absorbed through the skin and replenishes the level of magnesium in the body. The magnesium helps to produce serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain that creates a feeling of calm and relaxation. Research shows that magnesium also increases energy and stamina by encouraging the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy packets made in the cells. Experts believe that bathing with Epsom salt at least three times a week helps you to look better, feel better and gain more energy. Magnesium ions also relax and reduce irritability by lowering the effects of adrenaline. They create a relaxed feeling, improve sleep and concentration, and help muscles and nerves to function properly.

Relieves pain and muscle cramps

An Epsom salt bath is known to ease pain and relieve inflammation, making it beneficial in the treatment of sore muscles, bronchial asthma and migraine headaches. In addition, it has been known to heal cuts and reduce soreness from childbirth. Mix a thick paste of Epsom salt with hot water and apply to get soothing comfort. Try soaking your aching, tired (and smelly) feet in a tub of water with half a cup of Epsom Salt. Epsom salt softens skin and will even neutralize foot odor.

Helps muscles and nerves function properly

Studies show that Epsom salt can help regulate electrolytes in your body, ensuring proper functioning of the muscles, nerves and enzymes. Magnesium is also known to be critical in the proper use of calcium, which serves as a main conductor of the electric impulses in your body.

Helps prevent hardening of arteries and blood clots

Epsom salt is believed to improve heart health and help prevent heart disease and strokes by improving blood circulation, protecting the elasticity of arteries, preventing blood clots and reducing the risk of sudden heart attack deaths.

Makes insulin more effective

Proper magnesium and sulfate levels increase the effectiveness of insulin in the body, helping to lower the risk or severity of diabetes.

Relieves constipation

Numerous studies have revealed that Epsom salt can be used to treat constipation. Taken internally, Epson salt acts as a detoxifying agent for colon cleansing. The salt acts like a laxative by increasing water in the intestines and can bring about temporary relief from constipation. However, it is strictly warned that Epsom salts should not be used to relieve constipation without the consultation of a physician.

Eliminates toxins from the body

The sulfates in Epsom salt help flush toxins and heavy metals from the cells, easing muscle pain and helping the body to eliminate harmful substances. Your skin is a highly porous membrane and adding the right minerals to your bathwater triggers a process called reverse osmosis, which actually pulls salt out of your body, and harmful toxins along with it. For a detoxifying bath, at least once weekly add two cups of our Epsom Salt to the water in a bathtub and soak for 10 minutes.

Epsom salt uses: HEALTH

Athlete’s Foot - Soak feet in an Epsom salt bath to help relieve the symptoms of Athlete’s Foot.
Remove splinters - Soak affected skin area in an Epsom salt bath to draw out the splinter.
Treat toenail fungus - Soak your affected toes in hot water mixed with a handful of Epsom salt three times a day.
Soothe sprains and bruises - Add 2 cups Epsom salt to a warm bath and soak to reduce the pain and swelling of sprains and bruises.
Ease discomfort of Gout - Ease the discomfort of gout and reduce inflammation by adding 2-3 teaspoons of Epsom salts into a basin and immersing the affected foot/joint. The water should be as hot as it is comfortable. Soak for about 30 minutes.

Epsom salt uses: BEAUTY

Exfoliate dead skin - In the shower or bath, mix a handful of Epsom salt with a tablespoon of bath or olive oil and rub all over your wet skin to exfoliate and soften. Rinse thoroughly.
Exfoliating face cleanser - To clean your face and exfoliate skin at the same time, mix a half-teaspoon of Epsom salt with your regular cleansing cream. Gently massage into skin and rinse with cold water.
Dislodge blackheads - Add a teaspoon of Epsom salt and 3 drops iodine into a half cup of boiling water. Apply this mixture to the blackheads with a cotton ball.
Remove foot odor - Mix a half cup of Epsom salt in warm water and soak your feet for 10 minutes to remove bad odor, sooth achy feet, and soften rough skin.
Remove hairspray - Combine 1 gallon of water, 1 cup of lemon juice, and 1 cup Epsom salt. Cover the mixture and let set for 24 hours. The next day, pour the mixture into your dry hair and leave on for 20 minutes before shampooing as normal.
Hair volumizer - Combine equal parts deep conditioner and Epsom salt and warm in a pan. Work the warm mixture through your hair and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.

Epsom salt uses: HOUSEHOLD

Clean bathroom tiles - Mix equal parts Epsom salt and liquid dish detergent and use as a scrub on bathroom tile.
Prevent slugs - Sprinkle Epsom salt on or near interior entry points to prevent slugs.
As a hand wash - Mix Epsom salt with baby oil and keep by the sink for an effective hand wash.

Epsom salt uses: GARDENING

Fertilize your houseplants - Most plants need nutrients like magnesium and sulfur to stay in good health and Epsom salt makes the primary nutrients in most plant foods (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) more effective. Sprinkle Epsom salt once weekly to help nourish your houseplants, flowers and vegetables.
Keep your lawn green - Magnesium sulfate crystals, when added to the soil, provide vital nutrients that help prevent yellowing leaves and the loss of green color (magnesium is an essential element in the chlorophyll molecule) in plants. Add 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt to a gallon of water and sprinkle on your lawn to keep the grass healthy and green.
Insecticide spray - Use Epson salts on your lawn and in your garden to safely and naturally get rid of plant pests.

Information compliments of Saltworks.us

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

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Friday, February 8, 2013

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Friday, January 11, 2013

What do you recommend for a brown spot under my eye?

Thursday, January 3, 2013

To Exfoliate or Not to Exfoliate...that is the Question?

The Importance Of Skin Exfoliation

What Type of Exfoliator Should You Choose?
There are different types of exfoliation. Natural, Physical (also known as Manual) and Chemical exfoliation? Learn the differences and why exfoliation is necessary.

What Is Skin Exfoliation?

Exfoliation is defined as the removal of surface dead skin cells by natural, chemical or manual means.

Why Is Exfoliation Important?

Exfoliation is considered one of the most important routines that you can perform on your skin to resolve certain skin problems as well as to achieve healthy and glowing skin. As skin ages, the natural exfoliation process slows down significantly. This is part of the reason why skin appears dull, pores appear larger and lines around the mouth, eyes and on the forehead appear more pronounced.

What Skin Care Problems Does Exfoliation Resolve?

Blemished skin

Exfoliation should be the main focus of a homecare program. So often, we are told to dry out the skin with harsh acne products. Although this will destroy acne-causing bacteria, it tends to dry out the skin, and this usually results in not only irritated skin but also in future breakouts. Why? Because as you over-dry the skin, you create surface dry skin cell buildup. This then acts as a barrier to trap oil in the skin, thereby starting a cycle of new breakouts. A Renée Rouleau skin care professional can determine how to handle problem skin situations.

Post-breakout red/dark marks

Often, the real concern is not so much the actual blemishes, but rather the red, dark marks that remain on the skin long after the breakout has healed. The key to fading those post-breakout marks is to increase your exfoliation. The more you remove the surface damaged skin tissue, the more you are ridding the skin of the dark marks and encouraging the formation of new healthy (non-scarred) skin tissue. The result is more even-toned skin with less scarring. See PCA Skin Pigment Bar to fade stubborn acne scars.

Clogged pores

Clogged pores aren't infected blemishes, but rather blackheads, small whiteheads, and little clogged bumps on the skin, often on the forehead. The same rules apply as with blemished skins. The more you remove surface dry skin cells (usually caused by using harsh, drying products), the less oil will stay trapped and congested in the pores.

Hyperpigmentation

These are the brown spots that come from age, pregnancy, hormonal changes, and genetics. These spots tend to become more apparent and darker as the skin ages. Exfoliation is beneficial for breaking up the pigmented cells to allow them to fade. Combined with a skin lightening agent, such as Vitamin C (found in our Vitamin C & E Treatment) or Hydroquinone (available OTC or by prescription), exfoliation will help accelerate the fading process.

Dry skin

Especially in the winter, exfoliation is very important. So often when the skin is dry, we tend to load up on heavier creams to compensate for the dryness. But dry skin means you have dry skin cell buildup. And the more you layer on the heavier creams, the more you are trying to re-hydrate dry dead skin cells, which makes no sense! Instead, increase your exfoliation to remove the dry skin cells, and then moisturize the new skin cells, resulting in a moister skin.

Use Sesha Renew Exfoliating Gel to brighten up dull and tired skin.

Those who desire smoother skin

One way to instantly smooth the skin is to exfoliate! When you rid the skin of the surface dry skin cells, you create a smoother appearance.

Those concerned about anti-aging

The skin's natural exfoliation process slows as the skin ages, resulting in an accumulation of dry skin cells. As you increase your exfoliation, you are tricking the skin into acting young again.

There are two types of exfoliants. First, a "chemical" or "acid" exfoliant does the work for you. You apply it, leave it on the skin, and it works to dissolve the dry skin cells. These exfoliants include ingredients such as Glycolic Acid (most aggressive AHA), Lactic Acid (better for lighter exfoliation), Malic Acid, BHA (salicylic acid) which is excellent for skin that breaks out or is oily and enzymes such as Pumpkin, Papaya, and Pineapple which is perfect for teen skin and sensitive skin.
Some examples of Medical Grade products containing Glycolic Acid are Glytone Rejuvenating Lotion 1, 2, and 3 with varying strengths of exfoliator which are excellent choices for mature skin, smokers, ex-smokers and non-sensitive skin, and Sircuit Skin Youth Accelerator or gloTherapeutics Pumpkin Enzyme Scrub which are great for sensitive skin or first time users of exfoliators that are not sure what skin type they have.
Second, a "physical" exfoliant means that you to do the work manually. These exfoliants include facial brushes and facial scrubs. Some examples of physical exfoliants are NIA 24 Physical Cleansing Scrub, Blinc resurf.a.stic face or Sircuit Skin sir activ Zeolite Purifyng Scrub.

For sensitive skin, we suggest using the enzymes instead of the acids, as these tend to be gentler on delicate skins.
For severely sun damaged skin, a Medical Grade Retinol combined with use of an exfoliator, manual or chemical, is effective because it accelerates cell turnover more deeply in the skin repairing cell function and improving the skin's overall tone.
To find out which exfoliants are best for your skin, choose from our skin condition exfoliating skincare list.

How Does A Person Know If They Are Getting Too Much Exfoliation?

If you use a facial scrub and your skin turns bright red and feels irritated afterwards, it probably means that the grains used in the scrub are too aggressive or you may be using too much pressure when cleansing. We suggest avoiding over-the-counter scrubs that use apricot pits, walnut shells and the like. These grains have sharp edges that can lacerate the skin causing more harm than good. Look for micro-beads, as they will roll across the skin and do not cause irritation or rice based scrubs that are more gentle and keep the pressure light to moderate. Some facial scrubs to consider use only the gentlest form of grains, so as not to be irritating. If you are using chemical exfoliants and your skin starts to dry out, you may be removing too much of the skin's protective barrier, letting out much-needed moisture. Decrease use to every other day or every third day until the skin acclimates. If excessive redness or irritation occurs, discontinue use and consider an exfoliator that is not as strong.

Which Professional Exfoliating Treatments Are Beneficial?

Many skin care spas, including Radiant Skin Clinic in Mendon, NY offer microdermabrasion, mini-brasion (a gentler form of microdermabrasion), ultrasonic exfoliation, chemical peels, and enzyme peels to give your skin a more intensive exfoliation than you can do at home. A licensed Aesthetician (a skin care professional) can help provide you with recommendations on products that are best suited for your skin needs.

The Bottom Line

The goal with your skin is to exfoliate as much as possible; with minimal irritation. Lightly exfoliating the skin with a physical scrub each day (with minimal pressure) prior to applying treatment products also provides better penetration therefore better results!