The Link Between Chronic Inflammation & Our Skin

Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response. It is our body’s attempt at self-protection to remove harmful stimuli (such as bacteria) and begin the healing process. Inflammation can be beneficial in the short-term. For instance -let’s say we get a cut or a graze to our skin. Immediately, our immune cells step in to protect against pathogens and heal the wound. This is called acute inflammation. Your white blood cells step in to do their job and then go away.

However there’s another type of inflammation that sticks around way longer than it’s meant to. This is called Chronic inflammation and can cause harm to our bodies in many ways.

Chronic inflammation can be the root cause of common skin disorders such as acne, eczema, psoriasis & rosacea. It can also contribute to premature aging, some mood disorders, hormonal imbalances, certain autoimmune disorders and disease. 

Our skin is our body’s largest organ, and when inflammation is out of control, it can manifest in multiple skin problems.

Numerous things may fuel chronic inflammation. This includes inflammatory foods we eat, certain medications, environmental factors and stress.  This then leads to systemic inflammation affecting the entire body. See gut blog for more information.

Triggers of inflammation

• Stress
• Viruses, bacteria, yeasts or parasites
• Food allergies
• Long term use of certain medications
• Toxins such as mercury and pesticides
• Lack of exercise
• Mold
• Lack of sleep
• Environment allergies
• Inflammatory foods

What FOODS cause inflammation and should be Limited?

• Refined Sugar
• Too much Omega-6 fatty acids – as mentioned above.
• High-fructose corn syrup – not only increases inflammation but can also inhibit the anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Processed meat
• Gluten
• Too much caffeine
• Dairy (ie non-fermented dairy)
• Processed foods, especially those that are high in high-fructose-corn-syrup, sugar and sodium.
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• See more on inflammation/ gut health here

Omega-3 Vs Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that the body needs for normal growth and development. However these two fatty acids compete for absorption. Our bodies need a healthy balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. It is Omega-3’s that help reduce inflammation in our bodies. So …an excess consumption of omega-6s (and not enough Omega-3) can trigger inflammation.

Omega-6 fats are derived from linoleic acid and are found in certain oils like peanut, corn, sesame, sunflower, soy, and safflower. These oils need to be limited in our diets. 

A recent study showed a significant reduction in psoriasis flare ups (ie reduced area of rash, and improved thickness and redness of psoriasis) – after supplementing with a high quality omega-3 fish oil supplement (containing EPA & DHA). The study authors suggested doses of 0.45 to 13.5 grams of EPA and up to 9 grams of DHA daily.

Foods which help reduce inflammation 

• Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids – such as extra virgin olive oil, oily wild caught fish such as salmon, sardines, t rout, anchovies and mackerel. Flaxseeds, sea buckthorn walnuts. A good quality Omega-3 supplement can also help ease inflammatory skin issues. 
• Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale. Also other colourful fruit and vegetables (the deeper or brighter the colour the richer it is in nutrients and antioxidants).
• Fruit esp berries – berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries etc) contain antioxidants called anthocyanins which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Note:- Grass fed meat is better than grain fed meat.
• Foods high in antioxidants help reduce damage caused by inflammation.
• Probiotic rich foods (or supplements).
• Turmeric root & ginger
• See more anti inflammatory super foods here.

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

Contact

Should You Be Taking Skin Boosting Supplements?

Unsure whether you may need an extra nutritional boost for your skin? OR are you perhaps lacking in a vital skin nutrient without realising 😳?

Our skin is often a reflection of what is going on inside our bodies. It’s always best to aim to get the majority of your nutrition through your food. HOWEVER, if you don’t always eat as well as you should ….here are 7 supplements to consider

Skin Boosting Supplements

Vitamin A (Retinol)

Vitamin A is an antioxidant that belongs to the class of compounds called retinoids. It is critical for skin maintenance and repair, collagen production and acne prevention.

Low levels of Vitamin A have been associated with:-

• Rough, dry and scaling skin.
• Inflammatory skin conditions.
• Follicular thickening of the skin – which can show up as rough, raised bumps on the back of the arms (called hyperkeratosis pillaris).
• Acne – Vitamin A is essential for the normal shedding of dead skin cells which can otherwise build up inside our pores. As we know, blocked pores ultimately lead to acne. Furthermore, Vitamin A has anti-inflammatory benefits for our skin and can therefore help calm angry acne breakouts.

Vitamin A is found in two different forms: Active Vitamin A and Beta Carotene. Active Vitamin A comes from animal-derived foods and is otherwise known as retinol. This ‘ready to be absorbed’ Vitamin A can be used straight away by the body -it does not need to be converted. The 2nd type of Vitamin A (which is obtained from colourful fruits and vegetables), is ‘Beta Carotene’. These carotenoids need to be converted to the active form of Vitamin A by the body (after the food is ingested). Beta carotene is found primarily in vegetables and fruits.

The most vitamin A-rich foods are liver and cod liver oil, however other sources include:-

Eggs, asparagus, peaches, carrots, beet greens, kale, broccoli, spinach, sweet potato, cantaloupe, red peppers and mango.

Poor Gut Health can cause malabsorption of vitamin A.

Vitamin A (commonly known as Retin-A) has been prescribed for decades by dermatologists to treat acne ‘topically’. Accutane (Roacutane) is a prescription oral medication which is derived from vitamin A. It has been used to treat severe cases of acne by dermatologists for years. However it can have serious side effects and its use must be supervised by a dermatologist.

Note:- Because Vitamin A is fat-soluble, it can build up in our body. Therefore an excessive intake (of more than 10,000 international units / IU) can be toxic. This is especially the case during pregnancy, so women who are planning on becoming pregnant should check with their doctors before starting any supplements.

B7 / Biotin

Vitamin B7, otherwise known as ‘Biotin’ is a water-soluble ‘B-complex’ vitamin.

B7 (biotin) contributes to the maintenance of strong and healthy hair, SKIN, nails, mucous membranes, the nervous system, and psychological functions. It is also essential for the metabolism of glucose, proteins and fatty acids.

Interestingly B7 sometimes gets the nickname ‘Vitamin H’, which stems from the German word “Haar” which mean “hair and skin.”

The human body cannot synthesis its own Vitamin B7. Only bacteria, molds, yeasts, algae, and certain plants can make it. SO it needs to be supplied via our diet.

Unabsorbed B7 is eliminated in urine, so the body does not build up spare reserves. This means it must be consumed daily.

Sources of B7 include:-

Salmon, sardines, avocado, bananas, raspberries, liver, mushrooms, yeast, whole-wheat bread, cheddar cheese, pork, chicken, cauliflower, egg yolk, carrots, dairy, certain nuts.

Although B7 deficiency is not too common, the symptoms include:
• dry, irritated skin
• brittle hair or hair loss

Vitamin C

The antioxidant properties of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), combined with its role in connective tissue health and the synthesis of collagen -makes Vitamin C vital for SKIN health.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which our body does not make on its own (and it does not store it either). SO it is important that it is included daily in our diet.

Many fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamin C. Some good ones include:-

Citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, spinach, kale, red capsicum (pepper), kiwi fruit, guava, papaya.

A deficiency in Vitamin C can present as:

• Rough, dry, scaly skin
• Easy bruising
• Slow wound healing
• Dry and splitting hair
• Dry red spots on the skin
• Poor gum health (bleeding, inflammation etc)

Essential Fatty Acids – particularly Omega-3’s

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) have many health benefits including SKIN health. This is due to the fatty acids EPA & DHA.

• Help keep the skin moist and strong by reducing the amount of water lost through the epidermis (the top layer of skin).
• Has anti-inflammatory properties – including the treatment of eczema, rosacea, psoriasis and acne.
• Help prevent premature aging of our skin.
• Mental Health benefits (eg anxiety & depression).
• Heart Health
• Helps with the management of ADHD.

Inflammation is a big part of the problem with acne (externally and systemically). Therefore an anti-inflammatory Omega-3 supplement is helpful when it comes to clearing acne.

Since the body doesn’t produce EFA’s, they must be obtained through our diet or from supplements. Good dietary sources include salmon, sardines, walnuts and flaxseeds.

Good EFA supplements include Fish oil, Sea Buckthorn & Krill oil. However keep in mind that there are fish oils and there are fish oils. SO many of the supplements found in our supermarkets are manufactured cheaply and can even be rancid! Choose a reputable company (eg BioCeuticals in Australia) where the fish oil undergoes strict testing to ensure its purity & to make sure it is of the highest quality, using ethically sourced fish free of heavy metals.

Zinc

Zinc is an vital mineral that helps with;-

• Healthy skin, hair & nails
• Prevention and management of acne & other skin conditions.
• Healthy immune function.
• Tissue repair and wound healing.
• The metabolism of omega-3 fatty acids

Zinc is easlier absorbed from animal food sources. However some plant foods and nuts can be high in zinc as well. Good sources include: Organs such as kidney and liver, red meat such as beef and lamb, and seafood such as oysters, scallops, and other shellfish. Non animal sources include pecans, pumpkin seeds, ginger, legumes, mushrooms and whole grains.

Probiotics

See previous article…

Curcumin

Turmeric is a bright yellow-orange spice related to ginger. Turmeric gets its health benefits primarily because of its bioactive component ‘curcumin’.

Curcumin – is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral powerhouse.

Curcumin has been shown to be quite effective in calming the symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, scleroderma, rosacea, and other skin diseases. Although the underlying causes of these conditions vary, they all have ‘inflammation’ of the skin in common.

Science shows that Curcumin can be beneficial for acne sufferers. Topically applied it can kill bacteria and reduce acne-causing inflammation. Taken internally it can reduce inflammation which partially the cause of acne. In fact, studies have shown that acne sufferers have higher levels of inflammation and lower levels of antioxidants than people with clear skin. Therefore it is no surprise that treatments that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress reduce acne.

More recently, studies have suggested that curcumin, may slow (or even cease) the growth of melanoma skin cancer cells.

 

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse) 🙂

 

Please note:-
The recommended daily amount of vitamin A (from all sources) is 700mcg retinol equivalents for women and 900mcg retinol equivalents for men. If you are pregnant, or considering becoming pregnant, do not take vitamin A supplements without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. WARNING – When taken in excess of 3000mcg retinol equivalents, vitamin A can cause harm to the baby.

Skin Toner – What You Need To Know

For many, the word “toner” brings to mind stinging astringents from the 1980’s. The original was an alcohol-based product that was used to dry up oily skin and remove any leftover dirt following cleansing. HOWEVER ‘some’ of today’s high quality formulas have completely evolved.

WHY has Toner Made a Major Comeback?

Pore Minimizing
Large facial pores allow more dirt, oil and toxins to enter the skin which can cause irritation and infections. Toners help minimises enlarged pores by exfoliating pore-clogging dead skin cells (look for the gentle ingredient poly-hydroxy acid & natural oligosaccharides). SO when our pores are reduced, it means fewer oils and toxins are able to settle into the skin. This creates a fresher, cleaner and less oily appearance, while also helping prevent outbreaks.

pH Balance
Our skins natural pH level is typically between five and seven (the scale being 0 to 14 and 7 being the most neutral level). HOWEVER our ideal pH balance can get out of whack due to various factors. When this happens, our skin try’s to work overtime to return to its normal level which can cause stress – and for some people an over production of sebum causing breakouts and blackheads. A good quality toner can help restore our skins vital PH balance.

Protection & Detoxification
As discussed, toners can help reduce pore size and also tighten cell gaps after cleansing. This helps reduce the risk of impurities and environmental toxins and contaminants penetrating into the skin. It can even protect and remove chlorine and minerals present in tap water.

Blemish Reduction
Acne can not only be a nuisance, it can also lead to facial scarring. By removing dead skin cells, oily buildup and residue from facial pores, it means less blemishes.

Hydration and Nourishment
Toners are a good way to add other specific ingredients and nutrients to your skin that you may not have in your other products. They can also add another layer of skin-replenishment and hydration to your skin. This is essential for maintaining suppleness and moisture, creating a more youthful appearance.

Skin Prep – in readiness for what follows
Balancing your skin allows other products (such as serums and moisturisers) in your regimen to absorb better.

Night Time Renewal
Toner helps remove any pore-clogging impurities that will saturate further into our skin (during our several hours of snooze time) over night. This helps our skin in its nightly renewal process. SO ….big tip ….always remove makeup before bed and don’t skip Toner.

What to look for

It’s important to look for clinical grade toners which are made with many of the same ingredients you might find in your other skin-care products. High quality ingredients are the key to the most effective Toners available. Every ingredient has an important job to do. Toners should always be alcohol-free!

SPOTLIGHT …..Rodan + Fields Pore Minimizing Toner

Rodan + Fields REDEFINE (alcohol-free) Toner has an exclusive combination of clarifying ingredients which minimises the appearance of enlarged pores quickly and efficiently. Gentle poly-hydroxy acids exfoliate pore-clogging dead skin cells while oligosaccharides help reduce the appearance of pores and prepares the skin for products which follow. Shop here

The bottom line: The next time you’re wondering whether or not you really need to add another step to your skin-care routine, remember not to tune out toner. It eliminates dirt, grease, and grime to help clear your complexion and make the rest of your products work better.

Shop here for dermatological skincare products

Please message me to find out how to save on R+F Clinical Grade products.

Victoria ☺️

Psychodermatogy – The Mind-Skin Connection

Our mind and skin are very much connected. This is now being referred to as Psychodermatogy. Psychological stressors such as chronic depression, stress, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been known to increase flare ups of acne, rosacea, psoriasis, hives, eczema and vitiligo (depigmented white spots on the skin).

According to Shelley Sekula-Gibbs (MD Professor of Dermatology), studies show that “at least 30% of all dermatology patients have some underlying psychological problem that often goes unaddressed”.

Constant stress increases the production of our stress hormone ‘cortisol’. This then triggers inflammation and can also throw off other hormones in our body.  Increased inflammation is not good news for inflammatory skin disorders.

Stress can also disrupt the balance between the good and bad bacteria in our gut. As we know, our gut health can also cause havoc with our skin. See Gut Article

When cortisol levels backfire, it can lead to over activity of oil glands in our skin. The sebaceous glands on the face and neck produce excess sebum, and our pores are more likely to become blocked. Bacteria loves to harvest in these blocked pores, which causes pimples.

Anxiety & other Psychological Conditions can also make it harder to sleep. Studies have shown that sleeplessness seems to have an effect on our skin’s ability to heal. This can then negatively effect skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne etc.

 What else we know about Stress (and other Negative Emotions)

• When we are anxious or stressed, it becomes much harder to ignore negative sensations, like itching caused by eczema and psoriasis.
• For psoriasis sufferers –  the immune system really over-responds to stress hormones— which can lead to major flare-ups.
• Stress hormones also trigger our body’s “fight or flight” response. Blood, oxygen and nutrients are directed to vital areas such as our muscles so that they are ready for action. This means that our non-vital areas such as our SKIN miss out.
• Cortisol inhibits our bodies repair and healing process. This is not ideal for flare-ups of any inflammatory skin conditions.

 

The Viscous Cycle

Flare-ups of Skin Conditions such as acne and psoriasis can then cause a person to experience more stress, continuing the cycle.

What Can Help

Finding ways to cope with underlying psychological issues (such as stress) can have a very positive impact on improving skin conditions.

• hypnosis is an option for some people
• meditation
• exercise
• Get more sleep
• deep breathing exercises
• seek help from a professional
• some people fin essential oils useful
• psychotherapy
• yoga

 

A Great Read 

‘first, we make the beast beautiful’ by Sarah Wilson

For more information visit

https://www.psoriasis.org/life-with-psoriasis/stress

https://www.webmd.com/beauty/features/effects-of-stress-on-your-skin#1

Can There Be A Downside To Some “Natural” Skincare Products ?

Don’t be fooled by some products (or the company’s) name. Words like ‘natural’ and ‘organic’ don’t necessarily mean what you think.

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not have strict guidelines for ‘cosmetic’ (grade) skincare labeling or marketing definitions  -such as ‘natural’ or ‘organic’. This basically means that anyone can create a synthetic-based beauty product with just one plant derivative (that may do nothing for your skin), and put a label on it that says ‘natural product’.

Also, if a dodgy batch is released on the market (containing a nasty bacteria etc), the FDA does not have to recall the products. In fact, the Cosmetic manufacturers are not even required to register their cosmetic products or report cosmetic-related injuries to FDA at all.

‘Clinical’ grade skin products on the other hand are subject to FDA approval. In order to be approved, these products undergo months and months of rigorous testing and clinical trials.

Something else to consider

Natural is not always good for the skin. Apricot seeds (pits) are a natural way to exfoliate, but small sharp edges can create micro-tears in the delicate lipid barrier, allowing distress. Mould, bacteria, and fungus are natural but you don’t want them growing in your skincare? Poison oak is natural, but you wouldn’t want to rub it on your face?  Although red irritated skin, stinging and swelling are natural reactions to some of these “natural products” —it is not something we want to experience.

SO …..Organic labels on your food means something, but when it comes to skincare products, it is better to embrace science and technology over hype and false promises. Remember, just because products are labeled “organic” or “natural”, there is no guarantee that they are safe.

Rodan + Fields (skincare company) follow all FDA guidelines and constantly review ingredient information and testing data. They are also members of the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) which initiated the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel as an independent, nonprofit, scientific body that assesses the safety of ingredients used in cosmetics and skincare products. In addition, irritant testing is conducted on all products and all regimens undergo dermatologist-run third party clinical testing to ensure safety and efficacy. The products are all cruelty free, meaning they are NOT tested on animals.

Rodan + Fields skincare products do contain high botanicals and other natural ingredients such as licorice and chamomile. However 100% natural ingredients do not address skin concerns and change the skin. Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields have over 50 years of experience as dermatologists witnessing the power of prescriptions and OTC-Over the Counter medications. They know that it takes a combination of natural products and real medicines to change skin. These results can not be achieved with 100% natural products. Some natural and botanical products found in Rodan + Fields products include;-  Chamomile, Licorice Root Extract, Avocado oil, Jojoba, Tea Tree, Ginseng Root Extract, Olive Fruit Extract, Macadamia Seed Oil, Lavender Oil, Aloe, Kaolin Clay etc..

Unfortunately    ….100% natural products often rot in the container before they get to you!!

SO ……always check products are ‘clinically tested’ and make sure it refers to the entire product, not just single ingredients.

If you are looking to improve your skin this year, why not try the Solution Tool (below website) and get your very own personalised Regime of clinical grade products.

https://visherwood.myrandf.com/au

ALSO …See below link for a great read

Why I Switched from Natural Facial Products to Rodan + Fields

 

Sea buckthorn – Omega’s for SKIN Health.

Sea buckthorn – a Great Vegetarian Source of Omega Essential Fatty Acids  …and so much more.

For centuries, Sea buckthorn berry has been used in traditional medicine to support healthy blood circulation and the maintenance of healthy skin and mucous membranes.

It is a natural vegetation source of essential fatty acids including omega-3, omega-6, omega-7 and omega-9. It is also a natural source of antioxidants, contains vitamin C, and amino acids.

Like fish oil, sea buckthorn is beneficial for numerous skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Not only are the berries (of the sea buckthorn) packed full of goodness, the leaves and roots can also be used in different forms as well. Despite its name the bush is actually found on land not in the sea.

Sea buckthorn is often used in topical skin products, or turned into an oral supplement (capsules). It is a great way for vegetarians to increase their intake of essential omega fatty acids.

Why Omega Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s)?

• They help to keep the skin moist and strong by reducing the amount of water lost through the epidermis (the top layer of skin).
• Anti-inflammatory properties – especially omega-3 fatty acids, are helpful in the treatment of eczema, rosacea and psoriasis (taken orally and sometimes even topically).
• Assits with acne.
• Help prevent premature aging of our skin.
• Mental Health benefits.
• Heart Health
• Help with the management of ADHD

SO …give your Skin a boost and maintain healthy mucous membranes with sea buckthorns (vegetarian) source of essential fatty acids.

Sea buckthorn capsules below

Note:  Flaxseeds, chia and walnuts are also good sources of Omega-3 for your Skin.

Multi-Med Therapy

Product Range Spotlight…..

Rodan + Fields skincare products are based on a ‘multi-med therapy’ philosophy. This means using the right ingredients, in the right formulations, in the right order. To see real changes in our skin, it is vital to use high quality ingredients in safe and effective amounts and formulations. Rodan + Fields takes safety and efficacy very seriously. In order to achieve desired results (without adverse effects), each formulation has undergone months of rigorous clinical testing and has a clinical grade 99.9% purity. Did you know that other ‘cosmetic grade’ products are only approximately 70% pure (with no audits) and often contain bacteria.
With Rodan + Fields Multi-Med Therapy, great skin and the confidence and self-esteem that come with it, are within your reach.  To find out which product line is best for you please visit the Solution Tool …..& Write Your Own Prescription for Change.
https://visherwood.myrandf.com/au
Please PM me to find out how to save 10% and get free shipping.

Rodan + Fields are so confident that their products work, that they offer a 60 day money back guarantee.

Remember your Skin and health is an investment not an expense.

 

Gut Health & Your Mood

A slight deviation from dermatology. HOWEVER   ……not only is our gut linked to our SKIN, it can also influence our MOODS (and vica versa).

YES studies have identified that there is a strong link between our gut health and our emotions.

Our brain and our gut share much of the same tissue. Sometimes referred to as our ‘second brain’ our digestive system and our nervous system are link in many ways.

Our gut’s microbiome produces more ‘serotonin’ (our feel good hormone) than our brain. In fact approximately 85 per cent of our serotonin is found in our gut. In addition to this, there are a multitude of other neurotransmitters located in our gut. A clinical study involving (a large sample size of) patients with gut issues,  showed that anxiety and depression correlate strongly with their gut issues. Another study showed that when gut issues improved, so did depression and emotional problems.

Evidence also suggests that the gut microbiome can influence sleep quality and our circadian rhythm. Our mental health is closely linked to the quality and timing of our sleep.

So there is no wonder that…..

Improving gut health can not only boost our immune system and overall health (including our skin), it can also improve mood. For good gut health we need good gut flora. The bacteria should be varied and well balanced. Meaning  …more of the good guys than the bad! Read more about this in my previous Gut Article.

Easy steps to improve your gut health

• Eat foods high in probiotics – eg Kombucha, Kefir, natural yogurt, saurkraut & kimchi or other fermented foods.
• Avoid (or limit) inflammatory foods – Such as gluten, unfermented dairy, excessive alcohol, refined sugar & artificial sweeteners.
• Eat fresh unprocessed foods – Include lots of vegetables & fruits that are high in fibre (lots have the additional benefit of being prebiotics – which are like fertilisers for our good bacteria).
• Avoid unnecessary antibiotics – Which can wipe out our beneficial, protective gut bacteria.
• Limit stress
• If required supplement with high quality probiotic supplements  – taking a probiotic supplement can also naturally boost the good probiotics in your system. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are particularly good strains for improving mood. Supplementation can also be beneficial for sufferers of inflammatory skin problems like acne, psoriasis, rosacea and dermatitis.
• Regular Moderate Exercise – has been shown to increase our guts (good) bacterial diversity and particularly increase Lactobacillus. Exercise also increases circulation, blood Flow, endorphins levels and reduced Stress.
• See Gut-Skin Connection

SO…..

The answer is YES

Skin Masks

Skin masks are nothing new. Women have been using them since ancient times. So, exactly what are the benefits of masks?   …and what should the number one essential ingredient be?

• Masks can unclog pores without stripping all your essential natural oils.
• Masks can boost and nourish the skin.

Kaolin Clay

Kaolin clay is one of the oldest cosmetic ingredients around and has stood the test of time, still producing excellent results. It is the number one essential ingredient to look for in a mask.

Why Kaolin Clay?

• Draws impurities from your pores without robbing your skin of essential moisture.
• Eliminates toxins.
• It’s Gentle.
• Helps boost cell renewal.
• Can increases circulation.
• Is rich in phytonutrients that help nourish and soften your skin.

 

More on Phytonutrients…..

Phyto is the Greek word for plant, meaning that the word phytonutrient literally means a ‘nutrient from a plant’. The role of phytonutrients in plants is to protect the plant from disease, bacteria, fungi, drought, ultraviolet rays, and pollutants in the air. Studies are showing that many of these benefits can be applied to human health too. 

You will notice how much softer your skin feels once you introduce the REDEFINE® Daily Cleansing Mask to your skincare routine. PM me for more details or visit the Solution Tool to find out if you should be incorporating  a cleansing mask into your daily routine.

Victoria Isherwood 😌 (Registered Nurse, Dermatology)

 

 

 

 

Will Facial Exercises Prevent Wrinkles – and give your skin a lift??

Fiction: – The more you make facial movements, the deeper your lines become!

Every time your facial muscles move (when you speak, make facial expressions etc) your skin moves too. This is called ‘dynamic movement’ and produces dynamic wrinkles. Overtime, dynamic wrinkles will turn into ‘static lines’. Meaning  ….they are permanently etched in our skin.

Years back we were recommended facial yoga “poses” involve lifting eyebrows, puckering  lips, and scrunching up our face in various other ways. All these moves cause creasing and crinkling ….aka ‘dynamic wrinkles’.
SO ….as you can see, exercising your facial muscles will actually increase your chance of wrinkles.

Anti-wrinkle injections work to prevent the formation of static wrinkles by stopping the signal between the nerve and muscle. The decreased movement in the muscle places less stress on the skin helping you maintain a fresh and youthful appearance. This treatment is most effective when used as a preventative measure.
Anti-wrinkle injections are made from a purified protein that temporarily causes facial muscles to relax, instantly softening lines and wrinkles and reducing the severity of visible wrinkles.

For additional reading visit-

Why Facial Exercise Is Bad For Skin

https://www.self.com/story/wrinkles-facial-exercises