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)

Why Exfoliate?

One of the fastest and most effective ways to brighten up dull skin is to exfoliate — that is, to remove old skin cells, revealing newer skin underneath.

SO …. Out with the old; in with the new

Exfoliating helps with cell turnover, the natural shedding of dead cells that slows down as we age. If these cells accumulate, skin can feel rough and look dull. Exfoliation helps remove some of that debris, so skin is smoother and reflects light more evenly.

Some of the below extract taken from DermRF

There are two different ways to accomplish this instant New Year’s transformation: Mechanical exfoliators polish away dead cells using granules, such as sugar or salt crystals. Chemical exfoliators, which include glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid, dissolve the bond between old cells and the newer ones underneath.

So which exfoliation method is better? Rodan + Fields founders Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields recommend both. “We’re fans of both gentle chemical and mechanical exfoliation, with the key word being ‘gentle,” they explain in their book Write Your Skin a Prescription for Change. “In our experience, it takes the perfect combination of the two to dissolve the bonds between cells without irritating skin and to sweep away dead cells, leaving skin soft and smooth.”

The Doctors’ advice: “Don’t overdo it.” If you don’t exfoliate regularly and want to start, or if you’ve only used one kind of exfoliator and would like to add the chemical or mechanical product you’re missing, give your skin time to get used to it:

1. Start slow, and don’t overscrub. If your skin looks red or feels raw, take a break and give it a chance to recover.

2. Treat your face and body differently. The skin on elbows, knees and heels may respond well to daily exfoliation, while your face may prefer it every few days. And avoid the temptation to use a body scrub on your face; the exfoliating particles may be too aggressive. (If you’re looking for one scrub formulated for both face and body, try R+F Enhancements Micro-Dermabrasion Paste.).

3. For best results, moisturize after you exfoliate.

Why else do we love Enhancements Microdermabrasion Paste?? …because they’re eco-friendly (see here)

Looking for more great dermatological skin products? See here

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / Dermatology)

The Anti-Aging Beauty Booster Treatment

The Game Changer for Skin

 

Is your complexion dull? Is your skin dry? Or thinning with age? Are dreaded lines and wrinkles appearing? If you are looking for a treatment to repair, hydrate and plump up your skin, the Beauty Booster (by Mondeal Aesthetics) could be the solution for you.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is naturally present in our body and performs a fundamental role in keeping our skin healthy and looking youthful. See here for more amazing benefits of HA.

As we age, our skin can loose up to two-thirds of its hyaluronic acid pool. At age 35, the skins thickness has decreased on average by approximately 22%. This results in our skin being more fragile, thinner, less elastic and less hydrated.

What is Beauty Booster?

The Beauty Booster is a unique skin hydration treatment which targets:-

• dehydrated skin
• tired-looking skin
• fine lines and wrinkles
• crepey looking skin
• thinning skin

The Beauty Booster can be used to achieve healthier looking skin on the face, under eye area, forehead, neck, décolletage and hands.

Beauty Booster treatments have a plumping effect on the skin

What does it involve?

The treatment involves fine micro-injections (by a medical professional) of a hydrating formula made up of hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, amino acids, minerals and vitamins. This unique formula stimulates ongoing collagen production, regenerating and nourishing the skin.

A specialised The injector gun is the delivery device that allows the practitioner (a specialist Registered Nurse or Doctor) to efficiently place the product beneath the skin. It offers precise depth and accurate dosing for a quick and effective treatment with minimal pain and downtime.

Areas treated

• Face
• Neck
• Décolletage
• Hands

What are the results?

The Beauty Booster treatment has a wide range of skincare benefits. The results are visibly lighter, smoother, and softer skin after a few treatments, while the effects are subtle and natural looking. Soon after the first treatment session the skin will appear less creased, more hydrated and supple. The treatment can asist those with Melasma

For optimum long lasting results, it is recommended to have 3 initial sessions, at 3-week intervals. Then for maintenance, a treatment once or twice per year is ideal.

Does the treatment hurt?

The micro-injections are shallow and performed with very fine needles. For added comfort the product does contain lidocaine. This is a commonly used local anaesthetic. A topical numbing cream can also be applied prior to the treatment.

Downtime?

On average, there is fairly minimal downtime. Directly after treatment the skin will appear pink and blotchy. Some people will have absolutely no bruising post treatment; others, particularly with very fragile skin, may experience slight bruising and blotchiness which can take up to 4 days to settle. Downtime is reduced after each subsequent treatment of Redensity [I] due to the dermis being repaired. We recommend Oxygenetix, a breathable skin foundation, to mask any effects.

For more FAQs regarding Beauty Booster see here

For another amazing less invasive Hyaluronic product visit here

To book a consultation or treatmentwith Victoria (Registered Nurse) please contact:-

Laser Clinics Australia

Warriewood  ph 02 83192078

Brookvale ph 02 80148911

Or Contact Victoria

Please note;-

This treatment should only be performed by either a Registered Nurse or a Doctor.

As we are unable to advertise drug names in Australia the term ‘Beauty Booster’ has been used.

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

 

Keratosis Pilaris – Those annoying tiny bumps that can be found on the back of arms.

Keratosis Pilaris is a common skin condition that causes patches of small rough raised bumps to appear on the skin. These tiny bumps (that look like pimples) are caused by a buildup of a protein called ‘Keratin’ (and also dead skin cells) at the opening of hair follicles. The condition sometimes gets referred to as ‘chicken skin’.

The bumps usually appear on the upper arms (most common), thighs, and buttocks. Although less common, they can also show up the face. They are often accompanied with associated redness.

Those with dry skin, are more likely to have Keratosis Pilaris (KP). It may also occur in association with other skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis / eczema.  KP is usually worse in the winter months, when there’s less moisture in the air. It can often reduce slightly in the summer months.

Although Keratosis Pilaris can occur at any age, it is more common in children and teenagers. It usually reaches its peak prevalence in adolescence and for some, may disappear after the age of 30.

Keratosis Pilaris results from the buildup of keratin which forms a scaly plug that blocks the opening of the hair follicle. Usually many plugs form, causing patches of rough, bumpy skin.

Flare-ups can increase when there is a vitamin A deficiency.

Treatment?

There is generally no 100% cure for this harmless skin condition, however there are ways to greatly reduce the severity and to prevent it from getting worse.

What can help:-

• Use a gentle soap free body wash (soap can exacerbate dryness). Avoid lathering agents such as sodium lauryl sulphate which dehydrate the skin and strips beneficial lipid layers.
• Use a ‘gentle’ exfoliator once or twice per week to remove dead skin (without irritating the skin and adding to the problem). A great example is R+F ‘Microdermabrasion Paste’.
• Topical Retinoids (Vitamin A) help prevent hair follicles from becoming plugged. It also helps with skin cell turnover. However be careful as some Retinol creams are drying. See here for a recommendation.
• LED or Intense Pulsed Light (ILP).
• Creams containing salicylic acid, lactic acid, glycolic or urea which help support regular skin-cell proliferation. A good moisturiser will help prevent water loss from the skin (ie dehydration).
• Laser hair removal
• Eat anti-inflammatory food such as Omega-3’s found in Salmon, Walnuts, Sea Buckthorn etc
• Avoid inflammatory foods (non fermented dairy, gluten and sugar).
• See Gut Health
• Humidifiers – add moisture to the air, which can maintain the moisture in your skin and prevent itchy flare-ups.
• Soothe 2 sensitive skin treatment
• See Skin Supplements
• Avoid long hot showers which dry the skin out.

More on Vitamin A

Low levels of this vitamin have been associated with inflammation and acne.

Carrots are a source of Vitamin A.  HOWEVER the Beta Carotene (in carrots) needs to be converted into vitamin A in your intestines by gut flora. If you do not have the right gut flora it just won’t happen. See Gut Article. The better absorbed source of vitamin A is from cod liver oil and organ meat, particularly liver.

 

Note:- Women who are pregnant, or breast feeding, or may become pregnant should speak to their treating Doctor or Midwife Before taking Vitamin A supplements or using topical retinoids.

Victoria Isherwood

Registered Nurse

Life Changing Skincare & A Great Business Opportunity

As a Registered Nurse for over 19 years (working in Dermatology / Skincare) I have personally witnessed the difference Rodan + Fields clinically proven products have had on people’s skin.

My Story 

Personally I have dealt with skincare issues much of my own adult life. Predominantly hormonally triggered acne, but also sun damage, dry skin and a compromised skin barrier. I tried everything to remedy these persistent issues. What often worked for my breakouts made my dry skin worse and vice versa. A lot of time and money was spent on products that failed me.

Finally I discovered RF products which were not only clinically proved BUT also WORKED. The products completely changed the tone and texture of my skin.

Some R+F Background 

Rodan + Fields was founded by Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields – world renowned dermatologists. It’s a premium dermatological skincare brand backed by clinically tested results. It is the number #1 Skin Care (and anti-aging) brand in America and Canada. It’s overtaken Neutrogena, Clinique, Lancôme, Clarins & Estée Lauder etc. The Doctors vision was to provide a dermatological / cosmetic alternative to what was offered inside a medical dermatologists clinic. The products are only available online through consultants.

Join My Team In This Great Business

Have you ever thought about earning extra money, on your own time, from your computer or phone? I am looking for motivated, self starters to join my very supportive Rodan+Fields team. Becoming a consultant for the #1 skincare company in North America was one of the smartest things I have ever done. You do NOT have to purchase inventory, or have in home parties or events, or deliver product to your customers.  All products ship directly from corporate headquarters to your customers. Overall, pretty simple and absolutely no risk.

Since joining R&F (prior to the Australian Launch), business has boomed and I am thrilled that I can now spend more time with my family (and less time in the Skin Clinic). Being able to work from home has given me the life work balance that I have always hoped for and I haven’t looked back.

Change your skin and earn an income, with clinically proven skincare solutions that offer real results. Minimal start-up cost, products that are backed by a 100% guarantee, lucrative residual income and lots of support.

The Figures Speak for Themselves

One of my absolute favourite things about Rodan+Fields is their generous, risk free return policy. As a customer, if you are not 100% satisfied with your products, you can return for a full refund, no questions asked. This is another reason I joined the Doctors in business. They are so confident in their products, business model, and incredible success that they want YOU to feel confident in partnering with them, worry free. So, if you have even the slightest inkling about joining this business, please contact me. We have an amazing team with a positive culture and provide the support you will need to succeed online. The average millionaire has 7 streams of income …. How many do you have? Millionaire or not, adding additional sources of income is a wise thing to do. 

Many people are finding out the hard way that the jobs they have worked so hard for, aren’t able to cover all of their expenses. So many people already have multiple jobs and work long hours trying to make it all add up. Rodan+Fields just might be the perfect opportunity right here waiting for you. Please, do not hesitate to contact me if you are at all curious 😌.  I am happy to answer any questions you may have.  Click here to learn more about joining my team and this great business opportunity.

OR Visit

https://www.rfglobalceo.com

Or to simply discover the products

https://visherwood.myrandf.com/au

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)

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)

 

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)

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

 

 

 

Melasma v’s Hyper-pigmentation

….The Low Down

Hyperpigmentation

Is common and usually harmless. Patches of skin become darker in colour due to an excess of the brown pigment ‘melanin’. Usually occurs from:-

• Sun damage over the years
• Post acne or other skin trauma (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation). An example is dark marks that appear after a pimple.

Note:- every time unprotected skin is exposed to UVA rays, a signal is sent to your pigment producing skin cells (melanocytes), to produce more melanin.

 

Melasma

Melasma is a very common skin complaint. The condition causes brown, discoloured patches on the face. Usually on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. It’s also called chloasma OR the ‘mask of pregnancy’ (when it occurs in pregnant women). Melasma is much more common in women than men.

It is primarily related to a rise in women’s estrogenic hormones (such as progesterone), combined with sun exposure. These increased hormones trigger an overproduction of melanin in the skin. It is commonly triggered by birth control pills, hormonal changes in pregnancy or Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Some women can however have a genetic predisposition. Most women with melasma have a history of sun exposure.

Melasma is most common among pregnant women, especially those of Latin and Asian descents. People with olive or darker skin, like Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern individuals, have higher incidences of melasma

Frustratingly, Melasma does not always disappear straight away after giving birth. During pregnancy the best defense in preventing melasma is sun protection.

Treatment for Melasma / Hyperpigmentation

• Sun protection +++
• Exfoliation – Removes dead skin cells and accelerates skin cell turnover.
• Chemical Peels – eg glycolic
• Topical products containing Hydroquinone -helps lighten melasma by inhibiting tyrosinase, which is the enzyme responsible for the production of melanin. Hydroquinone is a naturally occurring substance that is present in blueberries, broccoli and meats.
• Topical Retinol (derived from Vitamin A) – which also great for aging Skin (wrinkles) and acne –not recommended whilst pregnant.
• Topical products containing Vitamin C – help with lightening and brightening.
• Professional Microdermabrasions
• laser pigmentation removal – using specialised medical-grade Lasers.
• Skin needling (Dermal rolling) – stimulates the production of collagen to create smoother, healthier skin. It reduces pigmentation, acne scarring, stretch marks, fine lines, enlarged pores, and scarring in general.
• See the Beauty Booster treatment
• REVERSE – line of products (from Rodan + Fields) – have been clinically tested to help visibly even skin tone, to reveal your most radiant and natural complexion. Please visit
  https://visherwood.myrandf.com/au and try the Solution Tool for a personalised recommendation.

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.

Other skincare ingredients to look for-

Alpha hydroxy acids, Kojic acid, antioxidants, salicylic acid, licorice, Vitamin E, green tea, mulberry.