About / Contact

Victoria has been nursing for 20 years. She has a double degree in Nursing and Health Science, as well as a Post Graduate in Midwifery. In addition, she has also undertaken comprehensive and extensive training in dermatology and the cosmetic field. Having an eye for detail, Victoria now works exclusively in skincare aesthetics as a Cosmetic Nurse.

Working in the Cosmetic/ Dermatology field, Victoria has seen a lot of fads come and go. This Blog aims to help you eliminate the confusion of an over abundance of Skin advice and products on the market today.  The objective  is to help you filter through the gimmicky products and advice, to get to the good material. All products shown are clinical grade, cruelty free, and have undertaken rigorous testing.

Blog topics will help educate and shed light on various skin (& related health) concerns. It is important to take a wholistic approach when it comes to skin health. Blog topics will cover both conventional and functional medicine. This includes various treatment options, clinical grade products, natural products, hormones, gut health, cosmetic injectables, natural remedies and more.

Please read on to find out more

For in clinic skin treatments / injectables with Victoria at Laser Clinics Australia please visit here OR contact:-

Warriewood (Tuesdays) Ph: 02 83192078

Brookvale (Thursdays) Ph: 80148911

For dermatological clinically proven skincare products visit here

😊 Victoria Isherwood

Contact

 

 

Typical Skin Changes In Our 40’s + what we can do to help….

Life happens and somehow the years fly by. Then before we know it we are in our fourth decade.

The changes….

Around our late 30’s / early 40s women typically go through a transitional period (which can last several years) caused by hormonal fluctuations. This period is often referred to as ‘perimenopause’.

Due to the shifts in hormone production (mainly progesterone and estrogen), perimenopause can bring about many changes. Unlike full-fledged (or early menopause), you DO continue to ovulate and you ARE still producing estrogen. In fact, your hormones will often test in the “normal” range.

Some of the typical changes that occur during this period of estrogen and progesterone fluctuations (and then decline) include:-

• Skin Changes – eg …dryer, thinning, adult acne, rosacea, pigmentation, increased sensitivity, less elastic, itchy, lines and wrinkles & volume loss.
• Hot Flushes
• Trouble sleeping
• Poorer concentration & also memory
• Anxiety 
• Mood swings
• Night sweats
• Increased PMS symptoms
• Fatigue
• Irregular periods – often short cycles + heavier bleeding.
• Weight changes
• Decrease in breast volume
• Change in sex drive
• Etc

Specific SKIN Changes

Changes in our skin predominantly occur due to:-

• the multiple effects of hormonal fluctuations
• a shrinking skeleton
• decreased collagen production
• accumulated sun damage over the years
• Repetitive facial expressions over the years (causing lines and wrinkles to become etched in). See more info here.

Adult Acne:

Beginning in our 30’s, our levels of androgens increase. Testosterone stimulates sebaceous glands to secrete thicker sebum. This can cause clogged pores and an increase the likeliness of adult Acne.

……see ‘Adult Acne’ Article for more information 

Facial Hair:

Due to the unstable progesterone / estrogen levels + increased testosterone, some women may develop the odd sprout (or two or three) of facial hair, particularly in the chin area.

Sagging Skin and Wrinkles:

When progesterone levels drop (causing estrogen to become unstable), fat deposits tend to become redistributed. Fat pads in our face (which provide support and structure) diminish. Instead our adipose cells can become more concentrated around the abdomen, thighs and buttocks. Leading Dermatologist Dr Kathy Fields describes this as “fat redistribution from our face to our Fanny” 😳. The result of this loss of volume in our face, can be the formation of wrinkles and skin that appears less taut.

Continuous muscle contraction over the years, is another major contributor of facial wrinkles. Continuous muscle movement causes ‘dynamic wrinkles’ which only appear when the muscle is used, however, over time, if untreated, these wrinkles can become ‘static wrinkles’ which means they become permanently etched in our skin.

Thiner less elastic Skin:

Collagen is the supportive protein structure of our skin. It helps give skin it’s youthful plumpness. Skin stays more supple when there is enough progesterone …..which helps stimulate the production of collagen.

Sun Damage:

The maintenance of Melanocytes (cells that manufacture the pigment Melanin) is under the control of estrogens. As we move closer to menopause, the number of melanocytes in the skin is reduced. With less melanocytes, we produce less of the protective melanin and skin appears lighter. Our skin is therefore more prone to sun damage.

Pigmentation:

As estrogen helps regulate the production of melanin (pigment), melanin synthesis can increase (when estrogen decreases). This can then lead to brown “age spots”. These can appear on the face, hands, neck, arms and chest of many women. This is particularly evident in areas of our skin that have been exposed to the sun over the years. See here for more info on pigmentation and melasma.

Dry and sometimes itchy skin

Estrogen stimulates the production of oils in our skin and also our skins ability to hold moisture. So when estrogen production diminishes  – dry and sometimes itchy skin becomes common.

However it’s not all bad news, there it’s lots we can do which helps dramatically. If you haven’t yet whipped your anti-aging routine into shape, now’s the time—because it only gets harder from here.

What can help?

• A healthier diet – a healthy outside starts on the inside.
• Skip long hot showers which drys our Skin out.
• Supplements – such as Zinc (can do wonders for Skin), probiotics (as gut health is linked to Skin health), Omega 3’s which help with inflammation and dryness, Vitex, Sage, black cohosh etc. Speak to a naturopath.
• Sun protection +++
• read previous Gut Article!!
• See previous Adult Acne Article!!
• Retinol (Vitamin A) based night serums – is anti-aging as it helps with collagen building and the rate at which skin cells generate. Amp up your results even further by using a dermal-roller prior.
• Going to bed earlier – as lack of sleep can add to hormonal imbalance, inflammatory skin conditions and adult acne.  Aim for 7-9 hours per night.
• Manage stress – as cortisol can trigger skin conditions such as psoriasis, rosacea and acne. Stress also robs us of progesterone.
• Exercise – helps with circulation (blood flow to your skin) and also stress management. See previous article.
• Quit smoking as it has been linked to early menopause.
• Some people choose to get mustcle relaxant injections – these 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 to give a fresh and youthful appearance. 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. Please contact Victoria for more information on Laser Clinics Australia bookings. Or visit the  LCA website
• Hyaluronic dermal filler injections – once again, this is a personal choice made by some people. A dermal filler helps re-volumise and hydrate the face. Made from hyaluronic gel – a natural sugar already present in the human body. Hyaluronic can help restore fullness and volume in numerous facial areas. Visit here for more details.
• See the Beauty Booster Treatment
• Upgrade your Skincare Regime / Products – to suit your changing skin conditions. Visit the Solution Tool for further advice regarding which skincare products will best suit your individual skin concerns. 
• Skin Treatments….eg Skin Needling
• See ‘5 Of The Worst Things You Can do For Your Skin’
• Progesterone Cream helps a lot of women with Perimenopausal symptoms in general. I highly recommend Ona’s Natural Progesterone Cream
• To receive a discount on Ona’s natural progesterone cream use code : Vskin10
• Vitex – has been traditionally used in Western herbal medicine for menstrual cycle irregularities and to help relieve symptoms associated with PMS. It can also provide symptomatic relief of hormone-induced acne. Visit your local health food shop or nutritionist for more information.

 

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / Dermatology) ☺️

 

 

The Anti-Aging Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

Ever wondered why when it comes to anti-aging ‘Hyaluronic Acid’ is at the top of the list??

Hyaluronic acid (HA) -is a molecule that is naturally found in our SKIN and connective tissue. This naturally occurring polysaccharide, acts as a hydrating and lubrication agent for our joints, hair, SKIN, nerves and eyes. The reason HA is so unique (and loved by the beauty industry) is because of its amazing ability to retain moisture. In fact one gram of hyaluronic acid can hold up to six litres of water.

A decrease in our skins moisture is one of the main culprits of aging skin. This is why this ingredient (which attracts moisture)—is a must-have when it comes to repairing your skin’s moisture barrier, or restoring volume loss.

Below is a summary of a great article written by the wonderful Dr Axe.

Hyaluronic Acid

So what is hyaluronic acid exactly, and how does it work?

Hyaluronic acid is a lubricating, clear substance that’s produced by the body naturally. In the human body, hyaluronic acid is found in the greatest concentrations in the skin, inside joints, within the eye sockets and in other tissues where it helps retain collagen, increase moisture, and provide elasticity and flexibility.

Today, HA is incorporated into different anti-aging beauty and health care products — you can now find hyaluronic acid lotions, creams, serums and supplements. There’s a good chance your dermatologist or cosmetic physician even offers HA in injection form (dermal fillers). Read on to learn why.

Hyaluronic Acid Benefits

Hydrates Dry, Aged Skin
Many people report that their skin feels “dewier,” the bags under their eyes become lighter and their skin texture is smoother after applying serums containing hyaluronic acid. The primary way in which HA helps improve appearance of “chronoaged skin” (skin aged due to sun exposure) is by reducing water loss. In fact, one reason that hormone replacement treatments sometimes cause the skin to look more youthful and less sun-damaged is because they increase the skin’s HA concentration.

Dryness, dandruff, thin lined lips, and fine lines are associated with aging skin because as we get older molecules in our skin lose some of their ability to bind and retain water. This not only causes dryness, but also decreases skin’s volume. Skin aging is triggered by both intrinsic and extrinsic aging, meaning daily environmental exposure to pollutants and UV light, along with the “the normal process of aging.” Studies show there are multiple sites in the skin involved in the control of HA synthesis, deposition, cell and protein association and degradation.

Researchers have found that stratum corneum dryness caused from prolonged sun exposure plays an important role in wrinkle formation. It’s now been shown that wrinkles and fine lines are usually also more visible in low humidity compared to high humidity environments because they further reduce the water-holding capacity and elasticity of the skin. HA can naturally help reduce the signs of aging by decreasing “epidermis water loss” associated with sun exposure, skin dryness or flakiness.

Wrinkle Reduction
Although most research shows that HA might take six weeks or more to improve skin’s appearance, some studies have found that anti-wrinkle HA serums can sometimes start to work within just two to four weeks of use. For more substantial anti-aging results, dermatologists now use prescription injections or formulas containing hyaluronic acids (including the dermal filler Juvéderm) to replenish lost facial volume and hydrate the lips etc.

Results from a 2014 double-blind, randomized clinical trial that appeared in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that products containing hyaluronic acid effectively decreased the appearance of wrinkles within 30 days of consistent use.

Treats Sores, Sunburns and Wounds    

Aside from lowering the appearance of wrinkles and dryness, HA is beneficial for treating mouth sores, ulcers, wounds, bites and burns due to how it keeps damaged tissue moist. It also provides sunburn relief. Many cold sore treatments for the lips and mouth contain hyaluronic acid gel to speed up the healing process and prevent cracking or bleeding.

HA is part of the structural component of the mouth and the lips, which are made up of connective tissues made partly from collagen and water. Collagen and HA help give lips their structure and shape. Because HA binds to water, it hydrates the skin and tissues within the mouth/lips and keeps skin junctions tight, helps bring nutrients to damaged tissues, controls inflammation and helps fluids carry out waste.

Lubricates Joints    

Hyaluronic acid is found in all bones, connecting tissue, joints, tendons and cartilage structures throughout the body — especially a type called hyaline cartilage, which covers the ends of bones and provides cushioning. Because it helps buffer bones and provides resistance to wear and tear, HA is useful for lowering pains and tenderness associated with degenerative joint diseases.

It’s also found in another important part of our joints called the synovial membrane, which forms a coating over two articulating bones and produces synovial fluid. Synovial fluid is a “viscous fluid” that helps joints absorb shock, remain elastic and carry nutrients to cartilage.
Hyaluronic acid is now a popular substance used in supplements for treating osteoarthritis pain and injuries. It’s also been approved by the FDA for treatment of osteoarthritis when administered in relatively high doses through injections given by a health care provider. (3) Some research shows that lower doses can also be effective for reducing joint stiffness and chronic pain, although results seem to vary. The types of joint pains most commonly treated with HA include those of the elbows and knees.

Hyaluronic Acid Facts

The biggest advantage that hyaluronic acid has to offer is that it has a very high capacity for retaining water, whether on the skin, in the eyes or within soft tissue. HA is considered a glycosaminoglycan, which gives it its capacity to hold a large volume of water along with its high viscosity. Throughout the body, HA is distributed in many different tissues, especially in the skin, where it provides moisture and structure. The skin accounts for about half of all the HA found in the entire body.

Other body parts where HA is concentrated include tendons and joints, the membranes of the eyes, the umbilical cord, synovial fluid, skeletal tissues, heart valves, lungs, aorta, and prostate. HA is basically a very long link of carbohydrate molecules bound together that hold water and therefore allow for fluid movement and pressure absorption.

Over the past two decades, emerging research has shown that beneficial functions of hyaluronic acid include hydration, lubrication of joints, a space-filling capacity within tissue and between cells, building the framework through which cells migrate, repairing tissue and wounds, regulating activation of inflammatory cells (inflammation), enhancing immune responses, repairing injury of fibroblasts, and maintaining skin’s epithelial cells.

How Hyaluronic Acid Works:

HA has been referred to as “the key molecule involved in skin moisture.” In recent years, new skincare products have hit the market that contain hyaluronic acid, promising to make skin smoother, plumper, more even-toned and generally more “refreshed” looking. HA is capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water — however, because the size of its molecules are relatively big compared to other acids, it’s never been easy for skin care manufacturers to produce a hyaluronic acid product that actually penetrates and stays on the skin.

Only in the past decade have scientists been able to create technology-advanced HA formulas that are capable of really seeping below the skin’s surface. Recent studies show that topical application of advanced (low molecular weight) HA serums can improve skin moisture and lead to significant reductions in wrinkle depth within just several weeks. HA is beneficial for reducing oxidative damage to the skin caused from both internal and external factors, especially ultraviolet irradiation (also referred to as photoaging).
• In addition to UV damage, researchers now believe that skin aging is also influenced by hormonal changes, including decreased production of sex hormones like estrogen. Decreased estrogen can result in collagen degradation, which leads to dryness, loss of elasticity and wrinkling of the skin (along with other aging problems, such as joint achiness and dry eyes).
Because HA is involved in slowing down collagen loss in addition to reducing fluid or water loss, it can also help improve joint lubrication, reduce pain, and treat various problems of the eyes and mouth.

How to Use Hyaluronic Acid?

• Hyaluronic acid injections: These are administered by Doctors or Registered Nurses only, so talk a specialist about recommendations if you’re interested in having HA injections.
• Hyaluronic acid serums: Different brands contain varying concentrations and types of HA molecules. The most effective types have more than one size of hyaluronic acid molecules, since various sizes work in different ways. Studies have found that daily topical application of serums containing around 0.1 percent HA can lead to significant improvement in skin hydration, wrinkle appearance and elasticity.

Final Thoughts on Hyaluronic Acid

• Hyaluronic acid is a lubricating fluid that’s naturally found in the skin, eyes, joints, fluid and connective tissue.
• Because HA has a very high capacity for holding water, it’s used in supplement, lotions & serums and eye drops to give structure and moisture to damaged tissue.
• Certain types of HA also have anti-inflammatory properties and help reverse collagen/cartilage loss.
• Benefits of using hyaluronic acid including firming aging skin, reducing achy joints, moisturizing wounds and rewetting dry eyes.

This is a summarised version of Dr Axe’s article. The full article an be found at  https://draxe.com/hyaluronic-acid/

Note:- Hyaluronic Acid is one of the secret ingredients in R+F’s Active Hydration Serum. Click here to order.

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse) 🙂

What Causes Wrinkles? …& what can we do to help

There are many factors that contribute to the lines and wrinkles that we developed over the years. Some contributors are out of are control, while others are from our own lifestyle circumstances and choices.

As we age our skin gets thinner, less elastic and drier. It also becomes less able to protect itself from damage.

When we are young, our skin springs back. HOWEVER -as we get older our skin looses collagen and it’s flexibility. Springing back becomes harder, resulting in permanent  (at rest) lines and wrinkles.

Types of Wrinkles

FINE SUPERFICAL LINES

These finer lines increase when our skin is dehydrated, sun damaged, or if your a smoker. They can also occur due to our sleep position.

DEEP WRINKLES

Every time our facial muscles move (when we speak or make facial expressions such as frowning) our skin moves too. This is called ‘dynamic movement’ – producing dynamic wrinkles. Overtime, dynamic wrinkles will turn into ‘static lines’. This means they are permanently etched in our skin.

In addition, the loss of volume (mainly fat cells) under our skin means there is less ‘support’. This is a natural part of aging and leads to increased wrinkling and sagging.

A number of avoidable lifestyle and environmental factors also contribute to the development of lines and wrinkles.

Smoking
Tobacco contains loads of toxins including;- carbon monoxide, nicotine, formaldehyde, mercury, lead and tar. These chemicals damage collagen and elastin within the skin. They also cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow, oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Skin is then less able to rejuvenate and repair itself. In addition to this, constantly squinting to avoid getting cigaret smoke in the eyes, and puckering the lips = lines around the eyes and mouth. See 5 of the worst things you can do for your skin.

The sun
Sun exposure is a major cause of wrinkles, especially for fair-skinned people.

Our sleep position
Sleep creases result from the way the head is positioned on the pillow and may become more visible after our skin starts losing its elasticity. Lying predominantly ‘face-down’ is typically the culprit. So trying to change sleep position can improve these sleep creases, or at least prevent them from becoming worse.

Dehydrated skin
As we age, it becomes harder for our skin to maintain its moisture levels. It also becomes increasingly common for our skins ‘lipid barrier’ to become impaired. This then leads to moisture loss / dehydration. The Skin also becomes more susceptible to bacteria and pollutants penetrating the impaired barrier.  Several factors can lead to dehydrated skin such as:-

What can help slow down the aging process

1) Protect your skin from the sun
– slip slop slap and include SPF in your day Cream

2) Don’t smoke
3) Choose skincare formulas rich in active anti-aging  ingredients eg retinol

3) Avoid dry dehydrated skin
Avoid long hot showers which draws moisture out of your skin. Avoid harsh cleansers. Change your skincare products to suit your aging skin, see multi-med therapy and  Active Hydration Serum

4) Smarten up your diet
Increase your fatty acid intake. Omega 3’s and Omega 6 help boost the skins barrier -which keeps moisture in and irritants out. Good sources include salmon, sardines, flaxseeds, walnuts, Sea buckthorn. Take Supplements if your diet is not up to scratch (Omega 3’s & Zinc is a good start). See Anti-Aging Superfoods.

5) Skin Treatments
– See Rolling back the years & LED
– Muscle relaxants (aka anti-wrinkle injections).

Anti-wrinkle injections work to prevent the formation of static wrinkles by stopping the signal between the nerve and muscle (temporarily causing the muscle to relax). 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.
Deep wrinkles can be treated with dermal fillers which replace the volume that has been lost under the skin.

Other
See 7 proven ways to nourish sun-damaged Skin.            See 5 of the WORST things you can do for your SKIN

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

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)

 

5 of the WORST things you can do for your SKIN.

1) smoking

Nicotine reduces blood flow to your skin, which means it doesn’t get an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. The chemicals in tobacco also damage collagen and elastin proteins (which give our skin its structure).

In addition, years of puckering the lips to hold a cigarette, or squinting your eyes to keep out smoke – deepens lines and wrinkles in those areas.

2) Going to bed without washing your face.

It can be tempting to skip the evening Skincare Regime after a long day of work (or a night out). However -not cleansing your face before bed (especially if you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen) leads to clogged pores, breakouts, dullness, rough skin texture, bacterial buildup and sometimes irritation.

In the evenings, it is very important to start your skincare regime with the removal of makeup or sunscreen. Otherwise your facial mask, scrub, or cleanser will purely be removing makeup rather than doing its job of removing impurities from your pores etc.

SO for healthy and vibrant looking skin, cleanse morning AND night.

3) Taking long, hot showers

Steamy showers may be comforting on cold winter days, however they also tend to dry our skin out. Hot water can strip skin of essential moisture and natural oils. For some this can result in dry, scaley, and itchy skin. This is especially bad news for those who already suffer from skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea. SO for the sake of your skin, turn the temp down to moderately warm, try and avoid letting the stream of water directly hit your face AND exit before your skin starts to prune. Then after your shower, always apply hydration/ moisterising products as soon as you have dried yourself.

 

4) Not getting enough z’s

Studies have shown that while we sleep, our skin repairs and regenerates. New Skin cells are also created and old or damaged ones are shed. Our skin also makes the most of any night serums and creams that are applied.

A lack of sleep also causes an increase in our stress hormones (cortisol etc) which as previously discussed (see here), can lead to many Skin issues such as acne, rosacea and psoriasis. Cortisol can also cause disruption to our collagen cycle, and also a lowered immune system in general.

The average person should aim to snooze for approximately eight hours a night. Establishing a good nighttime routine will help you get a better night’s sleep. This includes avoiding caffeine in the afternoon, avoiding blue light (from devices) an hour before bed time, sleep in a dark & quiet room, and try to go to bed at a similar time each night (well at least midweek).

Lastly ….sleep deprivation also leads to dark swollen under-eye areas.

5) Not using sunscreen – all year         round.

UVB rays—the ones responsible for burning—are much stronger during the summer, but UVA rays tend to remain pretty constant all year long. SO don’t just reserve your SPF for summer days at the beach. It should be included in your skincare regimen pretty much every day.

A daily moisturizer with SPF built in is the easiest solution for a lot of people.

Visit here for more information on sundamaged skin.

Other

Need help with your skincare regimen? Please feel free to contact me OR visit the Solutin Tool.

☺️ Victoria

8 Proven Ways To Nourish Sun Damaged Skin.

We know that the sun is a big contributor to aging skin. It causes sun spots, wrinkles, dullness, hyper pigmentation, broken blood vessels, enlarged pores, thickened skin and more.

Pigmentation is usually the result of too much sun, creating freckles, age spots or larger discoloured skin patches. Research has shown that it is one of the biggest contributors to looking older – equal to wrinkles. A combination of lifestyle changes and treatments can reduce this discolouration and even out our skin tone. This can lead to younger-looking radiant skin.

1) Skin Treatments

There are a few different in-clinic options for treating pigmented sun spots and fine lines. This includes treatments with advanced medical-grade Lasers, LED light therapy, microdermabrasion, cosmedical grade chemical peels, skin needling, the Beauty Booster treatment etc. Therapists will discus treatment options and also the individuals suitability for the various treatment options. Deeper wrinkles can also be softened with muscle relaxants.

Rochelle Lehmann who has worked in dermatology for 30 years (and is senior dermal therapist and clinic manager at Laser Clinics Australia Brookvale) explains that “the most successful treatment option usually depends on skin tone. For example, laser works well for lighter skin types and peels for darker skin tones”.

For a free skin consultation visit-

https://www.laserclinics.com.au

2) Sleep

Nighttime is when our skin does a lot of its renewal and repair work. This includes making new cells and shedding old damaged ones.  It is also the time when Retinol and nourishing night creams go to work. Our best quality sleep is before 12 midnight. The ‘average’ person should try and aim for no less than 7.5 hours sleep per night.

3) Retinol

You can further revitalise the appearance of your sun damaged skin while you sleep with Vitamin A – AKA Retinol. In fact, when it comes to the signs of sun damage, no skin care ingredient works better!
Retinol works by promoting skin cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. It helps fade sunspots and pigmentation and also reduces fine lines and also acne (including acne scars).

REDEFINE Night Renewing Serum contains a proprietary blend of powerful peptides and Retinol to visibly improve skin texture and brighten skin. The time-release technology keeps this anti-ageing serum working all night long to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sun damage and pores for firmer, younger-looking skin.

Why 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

4) At home dermal rolling

Derma Rolling timulates the production of collagen to create smoother, healthier skin. It reduces pigmentation / sunspots, acne scarring, stretch marks, fine lines, enlarged pores, and scarring

5) Reverse Regime

Clean the slate and see a brighter future for your skin with Rodan + Fields clinically roven REVERSE Regimen. Exposure to the sun and the environment can leave you with less-than-youthful skin. Erase the appearance of premature ageing including brown spots, dullness and discolouration with REVERSE. It exfoliates, brightens, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and defends against sun exposure for a long-term solution for a radiant complexion.

6) Exercise

Exercise promotes healthy circulation and blood flow to the skin. This allows for the delivery of nutrients which can help with cell damage. For more skin benefits of physical activity visit exercise-skin article.

7) Sunscreen

There’s nothing new here. It should be worn pretty much everyday. It should also be an ingredient in your facial day cream!

8) Hydrate your skin with Hyaluronic Acid

See here and here

 

Final note:-

Unless you want to end up right back where you started, there’s no use trying to tackle pigmentation / melasma unless your prepared to keep your face out of the sun. Diligent sun protection is vital.

Intead of tanning in the sun, opt for a good sunless tanning product like Essentials Foaming Sunless Tan. To correct pigmentation caused by sun damage, see below…

Click here for more information on skincare products to address your specific needs.

🙂 Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse – dermatology)

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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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 ☺️

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