Kleresca- The Breakthrough in Dermatology

Achieve Healthy Skin With Kleresca

A breakthrough in dermatology has been getting great results all around the world.

Kleresca® is a non-invasive treatment for skin rejuvenation, rosacea and acne. It involves fluorescent light energy which stimulates the skin at the cellular level.

• Inspired by photosynthesis 
• Stimulates skin at a cellular level
• Increases collagen by approximately 400%
• Reduces inflammation
• Reduces fine lines
• Reduces pore size
• Has a high safety profile
• Is generally perceived as very comfortable (even to rosacea sufferers with enhanced sensitivity).

Another bonus is that there is no destruction of the skin’s natural barrier.

How is the treatment performed?

1. The skin is cleaned and Kleresca® Skin Rejuvenation gel is applied.

2. The gel is illuminated for nine minutes using the multi-LED Kleresca® lamp; together creating fluorescent light energy that stimulates the skin.

3. The gel is removed and the skin is cleaned and moisturised.

The treatment is based on the interaction between the specially designed photo converter gel and the Kleresca lamp. The fluorescent light penetrates the different layers of the skin, stimulating repair and collagen production.

Kleresca Acne Treatment

Kleresca is a breakthrough treatment that safely improves acne without discomfort or downtime. The treatment combines a specially formulated gel which is applied to the face prior to going under the high intensity multi-wavelength LED light. The combination of which kills the acne causing bacteria and initiate’s healing. It will also help fade acne scaring. A treatment course is recommended – consisting of 2 treatments per week for 6 weeks.

Kleresca fluorescent light energy stimulates the skin’s own repair mechanisms:-

• Killing bacteria responsible for acne (P. acnes)
  Reducing inflammation
• Normalising cellular activity
• Reducing signs of scarring by increasing collagen build-up

Kleresca Rosacea Treatment 

• Reduces inflammation, reducing the presence of papules and pustules 
• Reduces erythema and blushing by improving microvascularisation
• Reduces the overall stress level of the skin, thereby reducing the feeling of burning and stinging
• Induces a healing response, improving the overall skin quality
• Is suitable for sensitive skin.

Learn more about rosacea here

Kleresca Skin Rejuvenation

• Induces collagen production
• Reduces pore size
• Helps eliminate fine lines
• Reduces signs of scars

Clients at Laser Clinics Australia on the Northern Beaches have been describing Kleresca as a pleasant and comfortable experience.

See here for more information

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / dermatology)

Acne 101

Acne is the most frequently diagnosed condition by dermatologist.

It affects nearly 85% of people at some point in their lives.  Whatever your age, the psychological impact can be significant. People with acne can suffer from embarrassment and low self-esteem. 

The Cause?

To put it simply, acne occurs when the oil glands (pores) in the skin become blocked with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria.

Our sebaceous glands are meant to produce sebum, which is an ‘oil’ designed to keep the skin lubricated and soft. However, when hormonal changes and other factors cause the gland to produce an excess of sebum (OR thicker than normal sebum) the problem arises. The pore becomes blocked and there is a higher chance that bacteria will multiply, leading to inflammation and acne.

Acne usually starts at puberty when increased levels of certain sex hormones (known as androgens) create an increase in the size and oil production of glands.

Hormonal acne can return again in our 30’s, as our levels of androgen hormones increase. Testosterone (an androgen hormone) stimulates sebaceous glands in women to secrete ‘thicker’ sebum. This can cause clogged pores and an increase the likeliness of ‘adult Acne’.

ACNE CYCLE

One of the most common misconceptions is that breakouts form overnight. However, the acne cycle begins days or even weeks before blemishes reach the skin’s surface. The acne cycle starts when hormones trigger sebum production. The sebum combines with dead skin cells, which leads to clogged pores. When pores are clogged, acne bacteria can quickly multiply, resulting in inflamed acne blemishes.

What can contribute?

• Hormones! Especially during the teenage years and then again during perimenopause.
• A high G.I diet – studies have shown that a high-glycemic index (GI) diet (refined carbohydrates like those found in white bread and also sugar) can increase Acne. It’s suspected that raised insulin levels from high GI foods may trigger a release of hormones that inflame follicles and increase oil production. Also ….sugar feeds bacteria!
• Stress hormones – such as cortisol can increase inflammation and stimulate oil glands.
• Family history.
• Poor gut health.
• Too much unfermented dairy, gluten and sugar – which can all cause inflammation.
• Using the wrong skincare products – commonly ones that are too harsh and can breakdown our protective lipid barrier
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (Zinc & Vitamin A).
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – This is due to increased levels of androgen (or ‘male’) hormones – testosterone and DHEA. Acne caused by PCOS tends to flare up in ‘hormonal sensitive’ areas around the lower part of the face.
• Wearing heavy foundation. Some makeup can clog your pores. So while you might be tempted to cover your acne with lots of base and concealer, try to resist. Instead, consider a more breathable tinted moisturiser or foundation like Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid which is non-acnegenic (so it won’t cause breakouts).

Common Problem:- Why do I have dry skin yet still get breakouts??

It’s a common misconception that breakout prone skin ‘must be oily and therefore needs to be dried out’. When in fact dehydrated skin (common in adults more than teens) is often part of the problem, particularly with ADULT acne. A lot of the products on the market are in fact too drying and add to the problem!

So it’s important to understand the difference between dry and dehydrated skin. Skin that becomes dehydrated from over use of harsh products becomes more prone to bacteria getting in. This is due to a compromised skin barrier.

The key is to use products that will help prevent pores becoming clogged (with bacteria, dead skin cells and sebum), whilst keeping the skin hydrated at the same time. 

What can be done to help?

• Topical Retinoids such as Retinol : which helps with the skins natural cellular renewal process. This can then help with acne and also wrinkles. Retinoids can be either prescription strength or OTC.
• Suplementation with Zinc and Vitamin A.
• Omega 3 supplementation – found in fish oil, Sea Buckthorn & flaxseeds clear acne by inhibiting two inflammatory chemicals that are responsible for acne breakouts, they are called PGE2 and LTB4. Omega-3’s do wonders for all inflammatory skin conditions.
• Improving gut health.
• Oral prescription medication such as short term antibiotics (and I stress ‘short term’ due to the disruption in gut health’) or in severe cases Accutane (a synthetic vitamin A derivative). Note Accutane can have irritating side effects and must not be taken when pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Stress management
• Gently Cleanse your face and body as soon as you can after exercise.
• Dietary adjustments. Cut out unfermented dairy which worsens acne because it spikes the acne-causing hormone IGF-1 & can increase inflammation.A low GI diet (ditch the white carbs and sugar).
• LED Light Therapy & Kleresca
• R+F Unblemish & Spotless  – see below 

TEEN VS. ADULT ACNE

 

R+F Unblemish

WHO IS IT FOR?

For adults who have acne and ageing concerns like dullness, uneven skin tone and texture, and loss of firmness.

WHAT IS IT?

UNBLEMISH addresses adult acne by drying and exfoliating, and reduces visible signs of ageing.

Clears current blemishes, unclog pores and reduce visible redness caused by acne, while preventing new breakouts from forming. 

The skin-clarifying four product pack is based on a philosophy of Multi-Med Therapy. This is all about using the right ingredients and active cosmetics, in the right formulations, in the right order. It’s a systematic approach and the results are guaranteed. Each regimen is designed to last 60 days and they’re backed by a 60-day money back guarantee – that’s how confident the company is that you’ll see results.

R+F Spotless

WHO IS IT FOR?

For teens and young adults, to help dry out and clear existing acne and prevent new blemishes from forming.

WHAT IS IT?

SPOTLESS is an easy-to-use 2-step Regimen that helps dry out and eliminate current breakouts and prevent future breakouts.

You can’t put a value on a boosted self esteem/ confidence. 

To purchase click here

 

Note:- If you sign up for PC Perks (Preferred Customer Perks) you will receive insider information, access to specials, enhanced customer service, 10% off all Rodan and Fields products, and FREE shipping. 

 

See here for more tips to control acne

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / Dermatology)

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

What Might Be Causing Your Breakouts

To put it simply, acne occurs when the oil glands (pores) in the skin become blocked with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria.

Our sebaceous glands are meant to produce sebum, which is an ‘oil’ designed to keep the skin lubricated and soft. However, when hormonal changes and other factors cause the gland to produce an excess of sebum (OR thicker than normal sebum) the problem arises. The pore becomes blocked and there is a higher chance that bacteria will multiply, leading to inflammation and acne.

Acne usually starts at puberty when increased levels of certain sex hormones (known as androgens) create an increase in the size and oil production of glands.

Hormonal acne can return again in our 30’s, as our levels of androgen hormones increase. Testosterone (an androgen hormone) stimulates sebaceous glands in women to secrete ‘thicker’ sebum. This can cause clogged pores and an increase the likeliness of ‘adult Acne’.

What else might be going on??

1) Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects a woman’s hormone levels. The condition usually effects women between the ages of 15 to 44.

Women with PCOS produce higher-than-normal amounts of male hormones (androgens). This hormonal imbalance causes menstrual cycle irregularities (including missed periods) and leads to other unwanted side effects.

The facts-

In PCOS; many small, fluid-filled sacs grow inside the ovaries. The word “polycystic” means “many cysts.” These sacs are actually follicles, each one containing an immature egg. The eggs rarely mature enough to trigger ovulation (making getting pregnant more difficult).

The lack of ovulation results in estrogen and progesterone levels being lower than usual, while androgen levels (masculine hormones) become higher than usual. This causes a disruption of the menstrual cycle and other side effects.

The increase in testosterone triggers excess oil production in the sebaceous glands, which creates the perfect breeding ground for infection and acne.

PCOS-related acne tends to flare in areas that are usually considered ‘hormonally sensitive’ -especially the lower third of the face. This includes the cheeks, jawline, chin, and upper neck.

Those with PCOS tend to get acne that involves tender knots under the skin, rather than fine surface bumps. Breakouts commonly flare up before menstruation and can take several days to go away.

Other common PCOS symptoms are:

• Unwanted Hair growth: Due to excess testosterone, more than 70 percent of women with this condition grow excess hair on their face and body.

• Thinking of hair on the head – Due to excess testosterone women can also experience male pattern baldness.

• Weight gain

• Darkening of the skin: Dark patches of skin can form in body creases like those on the neck, in the groin, and under the breasts.

• Headaches: Hormone changes can trigger headaches in some women.

What causes it?

Doctors aren’t 100% sure what causes PCOS. They believe that high levels of male hormones prevent the ovaries from producing hormones and making eggs normally.

Genes, insulin resistance, and inflammation have all been linked to excess androgen production.

Women with PCOS often have increased levels of inflammation in their body. Being overweight can also contribute to inflammation. Studies have linked excess inflammation to higher androgen levels.

Treatment

Treatment for PCOS usually starts with lifestyle changes like weight loss, diet, and exercise.

https://www.healthline.com/health/pcos-diet

2) Rosacea

For some, Rosacea is actually the problem NOT acne. Click here to find out wether you may actually have rosacea.

3) Hormonal fluctuations

As previously discussed, certain hormones rise during puberty. These hormones cause an increase in the production of sebum. This results in hair follicles becoming blocked, forming comedones or “clogged pores.” These clogged pores then commonly become infected and inflamed – AKA acne!

Hormonal adult acne tends to flare up at predictable times during our menstrual cycle. For many women, this occurs the week leading up to menstruation or during. However the menstrual cycle is the time when symptoms peak. Some women may also experience a breakout during ovulation.

Perimenopause is the period (which can last for several years) prior to menopause. During this time, hormonal fluctuations are increased which can lead to acne.

Acne located on the Lower third of the face and along the jawline is often more likely to be related to hormonal issues than acne across the forehead or the bridge of the nose.

Hormonal adult acne is often deep, cystic, and sensitive to touch.

See link to find out what you can do to help

4) Poor Gut Health

see Gut Article

5) Stress

During times of stress, cortisol (the stress hormone) increases oil production which can stimulate acne. The Skin-Gut connection has been scientifically proven.

6) An Inflammatory diet

A high glycemic (GI) diet

Foods that increase insulin levels have a high ‘glycaemic index’ (GI). The glycaemic index is a measurement of how carbohydrates have an effect on our blood sugar levels. Foods with a high glycaemic index break down super fast in our body causing a rise in blood sugar levels. This then causes a spike in the amount of insulin our body produces (in hope to re balance the blood sugar level). This spike in blood sugar and insulin then leads to inflammation.

High GI foods include white carbohydrates (eg white bread, chips, pasta, white rice, potatoes, processed biscuits etc) and of course sugar.

SO ….instead switch to low GI food such as non starchy vegetables (swop potato for sweet potato), some fruit, whole grains, nuts, fermented dairy such as yogurt, meat, poultry, fish and eggs.

Non fermented diary (milk) and gluten also cause inflammation in most people.

Treatment

See adult acne article

See gut health

USA or Canadian readers can click here for clinically proven anti-acne skincare products. Australian readers …check back soon as this great product will be available soon here in Auz.

For severe cases of acne or hormonal imbalances please see your healthcare professional or Dermatologist.

🙂 Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse -Dermatology)

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.

Retinol

 The answer is: YES

Retinol (Vitamin A) is clinically proven to make a huge impact on how skin ages. Dermatologists have been prescribing it for decades as the gold standard for promoting skin cell turnover and collagen production. It can help with:-

• Fine lines & wrinkles
• Scarring
• Uneven skin tone
• Controlling breakouts
• Keratosis pilaris
• Preventing clogged pores
• Sun damaged skin

SO …..when it comes to delivering long-term benefits and creating a more youthful appearance, it certainly gets an A+.

However, there’s a hitch: Prescription Vitamin A causes irritation and can be very drying, which makes daily use very difficult.

So how can you reap the benefits of Vitamin A without the irritation or the need for a Doctors script??

One way is to use products that contain a very low percentage of Retinol – this would be less irritating to the skin, but also less potent and effective (compared to prescription Vitamin A). The innovative way is to use Rodan + Fields Intensive Renewing Serum, which is the closest thing you will find to prescription strength WITHOUT drying your skin out.

This is because Intensive Renewing Serum contains a proprietary blend of powerful peptides and Retinal-MD (which is 20 times the strength of regular retinol). This will allow for visibly improved skin WITHOUT the side effects. The time-release technology keeps this anti-ageing serum working all night long to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and pores for firmer, younger-looking skin. SO …..you can revitalise the appearance of your skin while you sleep. It is designed to be tough on the signs of aging and not on your skin.

What about oral Vitamin A?

Vitamin A is a super important antioxidant / fat-soluble vitamin. It is crucial for maintaining overall health and keeping our SKIN healthy and clear. See here for the multiple skin benefits of oral vitamin A (including the best dietary sources).

Q&A:

Why should topical Retinol only be applied at NIGHT time?

Its important to keep your skin away from direct sunlight when using retinol. This is because retinol makes skin super-sensitive to UV rays and more likely to burn. In addition, the sunlight makes the product less effective. SO ALWAYS apply retinol serums in the evening before bed and remember to use sunscreen every morning.

Why does R&F Intensive renewing Serum (Retinol) come in small capsules?

The patented capsules eliminate the product’s exposure to oxygen. Oxygen decreases the efficacy of retinol dramatically – hence the creation of these little blue capsules! This intensive serum is as close as you can get to prescription Vitamin A without a visit to a doctor.

Pregnant woman and Vitamin A?

If pregnant please speak to your Doctor or Midwife before considering topical or oral Vitamin A. This is because high levels of vitamin A early in a pregnancy increases the risk for birth defects.

 

Click here to purchase or to find out which other products may suit your Skin type. Please message Victoria to find out how to get an instant discount and free shipping.

Want to amp up your Retinol Serum even further? Visit here

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

 

Rolling Back The Years – With Skin Needling

If acne scarring, ageing, pigmentation, stretch marks, sun-damage or wrinkles are a problem for you (or if you want to get better results from your existing skincare products) – then you need to know about Derma Rolling (aka Skin Needling).

Skin needling stimulates the production of collagen to create smoother, healthier skin. A variety of skin conditions can be reduced such as scarring, stretch marks, fine lines, pigmentation, enlarged pores and acne scaring.

Microscopic needles create channels within the epidermis and dermis to encourage an organic renewal and regenerating response.

Some of the Benefits

• Visible skin rejuvenation due to collagen induction
• Softer and smoother skin
• Anti-aging
• Pigmentation & sun damage
• Acne scarring
• Stretch marks
• Enlarged pores
• Rosacea
• A dramatic increase in the effectiveness & penetration of skin care products.

Treatment Options

At Home

At home derma rollers have tiny microscopic needles and can be used 2-3 times per week (or more). They should ideally be used in the evening after cleansing and toning (if using a Toner), and prior to Night Serum / Retinol. As the roller only penetrates at a microscopic level within the skin, it is a completely comfortable experience.

See more here

In Clinic

After a thorough skin analysis, a professional Skin Therapist will perform a non-invasive needling treatment using a derma roller which has slightly bigger needles (although still microscopic) which allows for a deeper penetration. These (in-clinic) treatments have increased benefits – especially for scaring, stretch marks and enlarged pores. Clinic Needling treatments can be performed every 6-8 weeks.
The treatments are also performed at a microscopic level within the skin. SO, there is minimal discomfort. Numbing cream can however be used to provide comfort.

Want to Amp Up Your Results Even Further?

1) See the Beauty Booster Treatment

 

2) Fractional Mesotherapy

Fractional Mesotherapy is an advanced skin needling treatment that stimulates collagen production even more. It has an amplified effect on the improvement of skin texture, fine lines and scaring.

This unique process combines micro needling with Mesotherapy (the introduction of various vitamins and complex ingredients to the dermis).

Increased Collagen Induction (anti-ageing) +
• Pigmentation reduction
• Reduced appearance of rosacea
• Pore size reduction
• Scar tissue reduction
• Reduced appearance of stretch marks
• Fast, safe and comfortable
• Minimal downtime, speedy recovery
• Chemical free treatment for all skin types

How the treatment is performed?
Fractional Mesotherapy is also a non-invasive (in clinic) treatment delivered via a Tri-M micro needling device, which looks a bit like a large pen. The device uses medical grade stainless steel needles that vertically pierce the skin, essentially working down to the dermis, leaving the outer layer of skin, the epidermis, intact. The electronic device uses a powerful motor allowing the needles to move quickly in and out of the skin. This creates micro channels in the skin, stimulating the body’s natural collagen production while also dramatically increasing the bioavailability of topical treatments and further enhancing their absorption.

Why not book a Skin Consultation at Laser Clinics Australia:-

https://www.laserclinics.com.au/skin-care

 

Other

Big Tip:-

For best results, use REDEFINE Intensive Night Renewing Serum (with powerful Retinol and Peptides) at nighttime after derma rolling. It’s the closest you can get to prescription-strength Vitamin A without the awful drying effect. This intensive Renewing Serum harnesses the skin’s own renewing powers to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness.

To Purchase please visit here

For more information on derma rolling visit

https://www.allure.com/story/rodan-and-fields-microneedler

https://www.skinstitut.com/skincare/treatments/derma-rolling

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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

LEAVE YOUR SKIN CLEAR, ENERGISED & REJUVENATED – with LED Therapy

It can be lights, camera, action all year round with LED.

Non-invasive LED Light Therapy works at a cellular level. The soothing, deep penetrating LED lights target deep into cells heightening their internal functions, photo-stimulating dermal blood flow, and inducing faster healing so your skin always looks rejuvenated.

• Increased blood circulation
• Acne treatment
• Rosacea reduction
• Skin rejuvenation and improved skin texture
• Lines and wrinkles
• Wound healing
• Pain relief
• Muscle and joint pain
• Arthritis
• Muscle spasm

 

LED Blue Light

Specifically targets active acne.

• Is clinically proven to reduce acne lesions by 70%.
• Targets the acne bacteria and promotes the body’s own natural healing response to rejuvenate skin. SO your acne fades and your skin heals
• Safe, effective, no down time.
• Most skin types, all year round.

 

LED Yellow Light

Penetrates deep in to the layers of the skin causing rejuvenation, cell repair and increased circulation.

• Skin Rejuvenation
• Wound Healing

Is also very effective after skin treatments (such as Dermal Rolling, Fractional RF, Peals and Cosmetic injections).

LED Light Therapy is pain free and in fact very relaxing. There is no down time and the treatment only takes approximately 15 minuets. SO they can easily be squeezed into your busy schedule.

LED Treatments are very affordable at Laser Clinics Australia.

http://www.laserclinics.com.au

 

 

Is your GUT effecting your Skin??

More and more studies are linking our GUT health to our SKIN.

Our GUT does much more than purely absorbing nutrients and energy from our food. It also:-

• Plays an important role in our immune system (about two thirds of our immune system lives in the gut).
• Produces more than twenty four hormones that influence everything from our appetite to our mood and even our Skin.
• Produces detoxifying enzymes (which also destroy harmful bacteria).

Probiotics are ‘good’ bacteria that strengthen the lining of our gut, support our body’s ability to absorb nutrients and fight infection. Strengthening our gut lining is important, as this can help protect us from invaders such as bad bacteria, fungi and viruses. Having low levels of good bacteria allows these bad pathogens and toxins to leak out into the body (aka “leaky gut syndrome”). When our immune system detects these invaders, it overreacts by causing inflammation. This can then lead to inflammatory skin issues such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis and rosacea.

Nutrients need to be absorbed correctly in the gut in order for growth, repair, and normal functioning to occur. When our gut is restricted (with the absorption of nutrients), it begins to prioritise which organs will get the few nutrients that are available. When nutrients are in short supply, the body priorities the essential organs like the heart, brain and liver. This results in our skin, hair and nails missing out.

SO 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!

So what can we do to help?

Probiotics

The best way to increase your levels of good bacteria is through food. Some good options include:-

• Yoghurt – good old fashioned full fat natural yoghurt.
• Feta – is rich in Lactobacillus & plantarum which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Fermented Foods – such as Saurkraut & Kimchi.
• Apple Cider Vinegar.
• Kefir – a fermented dairy drink rich in the beneficial probiotic Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
• Miso – made from fermented soybeans, rice or barley.
• Kombucha – an effervescent fermentation of black tea.

Supplementing with additional high quality probiotic supplements can be a great way to get more probiotics into your body. Taking a probiotic supplement can also naturally boost the good probiotics that are already in your system. Supplementation can be especially beneficial for sufferers of inflammatory skin problems like acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and dermatitis.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are like fertilisers for your good gut flora. Examples include:-

• Inulin found in onions, garlic, leeks, witlof, endive, Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus & bananas.
• Fibre – such as flaxseeds, apples, oats.

To avoid / limit

• Sugar – bad bacteria feeds on sugar.
• Artificial sweeteners – are now thought to harm the good bacteria in your gut.
• Processed foods – are often loaded with sugar and gluten. They also often contain emulsifiers, which are added to a lot of processed foods to extend their shelf life ….and dramatically increase gut inflammation.
• Unnecessary oral antibiotics – which can wipe out your beneficial, protective gut bacteria.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen, which can cause intestinal and gut inflammation, damaging the lining and causing intestinal and gut permeability.
• Stress – this connection is referred to as the gut-brain axis.
• Alcohol – can irritate the stomach and intestines, cause inflammation and suppress certain vital hormone production.
• Gluten – causes inflammation of the gut in most people.
• Unfermented Dairy – can cause inflammation similar to gluten and sugar.

What else can help?

• Exercise – researchers believe that exercise increases particular types of bacteria in the gut.
• Sleep
• Limiting stress (which decreases cortisol levels).
• Bone broth – collagen is great for the gut and skin.

The importance of keeping things regular 

Our skin (which is our largest organ) is a major form of elimination for the body. If bowel motions aren’t regular, then toxins will need to be excreted elsewhere. 

As our face is covered in pores, it becomes the perfect back-up plan for excreting toxins. This can results in acne! SO, it’s really important to have regular bowel motions to ensure your body does not either store toxins or eliminate them via the skin. 

Good reads

1. The Clever Guts Diet
   – Dr Michael Mosley
2. GUT – The inside story of our body’s most under-rated organ. – Giulia Enders.

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / Dermatology)

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