TAXES AND CHOCOLATE-10 Skin Reasons You Should Include Chocolate In Your Easter Diet!

March 24, 2016December 11, 2016Leave a comment

Taxes and Chocolate ,two of life’s inevitables. These two aren’t mutually exclusive, one leaves a bad taste in your mouth and the other leaves a taste of pure joy. Easter gifts us chocolate lovers four chocolate-coated days of shameless chocolate consumption. And if you need any more reasons to nibble on those bunny ears , do as Molly Meldrum says and ‘Do your skin a favour ‘and jump on board the Easter parade because chocolate might just be your skin’s newest best friend.

Who knew- something that tastes that good could be soo good for you?

The humble cocao bean provides a source high in antioxidants and nutrients providing many positive health benefits. Research suggests that cocoa and chocolate (specifically dark, contains more cocoa), are rich in organic compounds such as polyphenols and flavonols which function as antioxidants.

Tip- To take advantage of the positive health benefits it’s best to choose chocolate with 70% cacao content.

And when it couldn’t get any better….

A researcher form Cambridge University has created a dark chocolate that claims younger healthier skin can be achieved by eating 7.5 gram of this newly developed, low in sugar, super chocolate called Esthechoc. Esthechoc claims it contains more antioxidants than 100gms of regular chocolate or 300 gms of Salmon.

10 reasons why your skin needs Chocolate–Feed your body,skin and soul!

Tastes great levitra zoloft – a taste like no other.
Chocolate makes you hop hop happy! Mood altering chocolate can relieve stress and contains a number of psychoactive substances including serotonin and phenylethylamine which control mood.
Chocolate makes you smarter! Cocoa is a stimulant and contains caffeine, theophylline and theobromine which improves alertness and cognitive function.
Chocolate increases microcirculation helping to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin.
Chocolate is noted to have anti-inflammatory properties reducing the formation of free radicals which contribute to aging.
Cardioprotective-Flavanols in chocolate help to prevent heart disease
Not Acne causing as once thought but foods high in fats and sugars may increase sebum production contributing to acne.
Anti cancer properties – thankyou Flavonols!
Antiaging – flavonoids specifically catechins and procyanidin act as antioxidants protecting the body from free radical formation.
Offers uv protections- a 2009 study investigating photo protection shows that choc high in flavonols protects the skin from harmful rays and a reduces risk of sunburn.

If you want to avoid the calories but still enjoy the benefits , astaxanthin, another antioxidant found in chocolate has been found to achieve similar results when applied directly to the skin……

Hop hop hop into a guilt free Easter!

Which is your favourite chocolate?

WHY YOU NEED A MOISTURISER– Don’t be left high and dry!

February 23, 2016September 11, 2016Leave a comment

‘Cleanse Tone and Moisturise ’ has long been accepted as the golden rule of skin care. Deleting ‘Moisturise’ from your skin care routine is a little like having a 3 wheeled car…..the car would still run ok, albeit a little wonky, a little inefficiently and with an accident waiting to happen. Without this important third step in your skin care routine you’ll find your skin being left “ high and dry”!

That’s not all as not only will your skin be less hydrated with fine lines appearing, it will also be more vulnerable when exposed to its changing environment, more susceptible to skin irritations and its crucial barrier function may be compromised.

definition; Moisturiser

noun: moisturiser

A cosmetic preparation used to prevent dryness in the skin.

Our skin has it’s own mechanisms in place to maintain hydration by secreting oils which help by trapping moisture within the skin.

The combination of hot water and soaps used when showering or bathing, can disrupt these mechanisms leading to dryness and dehydration.

Whilst personal hygiene is important (especially if you value friends), replacing these essential oils lost from everyday showering is vital in maintaining healthy skin.

Applying a moisturiser replaces the lost oils by providing a protective layer, stabilising the barrier function and increasing water content by reducing trans epidermal water loss(TEWL) helping to keep our skin supple.

Job Opportunity,

Moisturisers need only apply!

Criteria-

Be willing & able to make my skin smooth and supple
Be willing & able to duplicate and enhance my skin’s natural moisture retention mechanisms
Be gentle on sensitive skin types – & in particular experience in being hypoallergenic ,non-sensitising & non–comedogenic ( Non pimple making – important for acne sufferers)
Commence work promptly by being rapidly absorbed and fragrance free be proficient at carrying water binding agents called humectants
Must display excellent interpersonal skills and have demonstrated ability to communicate well with sunscreens & other skin nutrients

The science behind moisturisers

Trans Epidermal Water Loss [TEWL]

Trans Epidermal Water Loss is a measure of the amount of water that passes from inside our body to the outside through the epidermis – the skin’s topmost layer. The water loss occurs via diffusion and evaporation and is continual and beyond our control. Disruptions to the skin’s barrier system including cuts, scratches, burns and dry skin with diminished natural oils ( e.g. after water,soap and bathing) , can increase TEWL. It is also affected by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and UV light.Factors that damage or insult skin increase water loss, leaving skin feeling dry.

Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF)

The role of the NMF is to maintain adequate skin hydration. The NMF is composed principally of free amino acids, inorganic salts, sugars, lactic acid and urea . NMF components are highly efficient humectants which are compounds that attract and bind water from the atmosphere and draw it into skin cells.Humectants are the weight lifters of the skincare world.Their hydrating properties and strength lies in their ability to hold between 600 -1000 times their own weight in water which increases the skin’s moisture content. Where NMF is low the skin may appear dry and flaky . The NMF may be reduced by excessive bathing or exposure to UV light

All class!

image retrieved from http://www.skintherapyletter.com/2001/6.13/2.html

A Match made in hydration heaven….

Tailoring moisturiser to skin type can mean the difference between good skin and great skin. Choosing the correct moisturiser depends on skin type, environment and specific skin conditions such as Acne.

Dry skin may appear flaky to the eye. Choose an heavier more occlusive moisturiser which prevents water loss from the skin
Oily skin is prone to congestion and blackheads. Choose a light moisturiser which includes exfoliating acids such as salicylic acid and humectants which will attract water to the skin.
Sensitive skin is susceptible to skin irritations and rashes. Choose products which are fragrance and allergen free.
Mature skin becomes drier so choose a more occlusive moisturiser combined with anti-aging ingredients will help to prevent moisture loss.
Normal skin contains a normal moisture balance. Choose a moisturiser which is light and maintains the hydration in the skin.

What’s in a sample?

Unfortunately not all cosmetic companies go to the expense of providing samples of their product but they’re a great way of testing suitability. When they are available they contain 3-4 days worth of application which is more than enough time to observe whether any adverse reactions are likely to occur. Tip: Apply on the inside of your forearm.

Should we expect more from our moisturisers?

Absolutely !

The savvy cosmeceutical industry are all over this! Cosmeceutical companies are responding to the needs of consumers who want to streamline their skin care routine whilst seeing results. But cosmeceutical companies don’t have a monopoly on being savvy. More than ever consumers are time poor, results driven, and demand ‘actives’ to be included in their skincare.The humble moisturiser becomes a multi-tasker tasked with maintaining balanced epidermal hydration and being an anti-ager, repairer and protector.

Additionally doubling up your daily moisturiser with a suitable SPF makes for economical and sensible skin care.

Don’t be left high and dry!

Choosing moisturiser to skin type is key. Correct diagnosis by a skin health professional tailored to your skin’s needs will save you dollars and potentially skin irritation not to mention an healthy and hydrated skin!

Need more specific advice, head to www.ASKinsolutions.com.au and ASK away?

photo credit Florian Sommet www.askinsolutions.com.au

MICRONEEDLING – THE POINTY END OF SKIN CARE !

November 10, 2015December 16, 20162 Comments

Microneedling or collagen induction therapy is not new but in the non-surgical skin care arena, it is definitely on trend and fast becoming the ‘sharpest tool in the skin care shed’ for 2015 !

Microneedling is not only reserved for the rich and famous. Approximately $400 per treatment for the face makes it affordable. Microneedling’s claims of skin rejuvenation, scar reduction and antiaging, together with the advantages of less pain and downtime than light based therapies, has the masses ‘signing up’ with/for a ‘Dermapen®’ treatment.

Kim K’s famous ‘Vampire Facial’ threw microneedling into the spotlight when she combined the treatment with her own platelet rich plasma (PRP), which was reinfused back into her skin via the micro columns created by the microneedles, to enhance collagen production.

Breaking down the barriers….

The penetration of topical skin care has always been up for debate; it argues against the primary function of the skin as a barrier which prevents skin care from being readily absorbed. Microneedling offers a solution. Topical agents may be better absorbed through the micro channels created by the needles into the skin, targeting specific skin care needs with greater results.

What you need to know if you’re microneedlephobic !

Microneedling systems are simply hand held devices which are either battery or cord operated with stainless steel needles embedded in their tip. The microneedles range in length between 0.5 – 3.0 mm with bevelled or flat edged tips.

All microneedling devices work on the same principal; puncturing the skin with micro needles.

Dermapen®, Dermastamp® and Dermaroller® are a few of the brands which produce microneedling devices, and systems. These devices are designed to puncture the skin, without injuring the epidermis, producing microchannels of trauma. These microchannels induce a wound healing cascade.

Part of the ‘healing cascade’ involves the body filling these microscopic wounds with cells which produce collagen and elastin, resulting in improved skin texture, firmness as well as a reduction in pore size and scars.

Dr Tina Alster,clinical professor of dermatology, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington DC says ‘it is both affordable for dermatologists and patients’ and is seeing impressive results, similar to those seen with fractionated lasers when treating wrinkles and ‘without the heat and risk of post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation’.

The devices…

The Dermaroller® has tiny needles embedded into a roller device which is rolled over the skin in varying angles and are commonly sold as in-home devices.

The problem with in- home roller devices are, they have needles 1/3 length of professional use systems, penetrating the skin at an angle and if not used carefully, create unwanted trauma by nicking the skin with the rolling action, increasing the risk of infection. Improper cleaning and sterilising of in home devices contributes to an increased risk of infection.

Application of skin care after in-home microneedling treatments may also carry an increased risk of irritation or ‘foreign body reaction’ created by ingredients in skincare, which may take a long time to resolve.

but wait there’s more…

Healthy skin requires a balance of 2 types of collagen – type 1 and 3 . The repetitive injury caused by an in home Dermaroller® used 2-3 times a week can lead to an inbalance and an over production in type 1 collagen, resulting in unhealthy looking skin; as it never gets an opportunity to complete the healing process.

The Dermapen® looks like a motorised pen with a circular head, embedded with adjustable and single use surgical steel needles.

The Dermastamp® looks and works like a Dermapen® but with a larger head, with more needles protruding. Like a tattoo gun without ink the many needles of the dermastamp are stamped into the skin.®

the treatment….what to expect !

A topical numbing agent is first applied and will take 30-45 mins to take effect.

An applicaton of an antioxidant, human growth factor serum or topical agent tailored specifically to the skin’s needs is applied before a non-conductive gel or hyularonic acid which assists the device to glide over the skin in multiple passes. The multiple passes may result in some easily controllable pinpoint bleeding.

Post treatment the micro channels will close within 60-90 mins and skin will feel warm, tight, itchy with some redness. The redness generally subsides within 3 days.

Adhering to the after care instructions will reduce the risk of complications and optimise the treatment’s results.

The benefits…

Cost effective
Little or no downtime
Able to be used in conjunction with other treatments such as peels, microdermabrasion and resurfacing modalities
Effective treatment option for acne scars, skin rejuvenation and anti-aging
Able to treat areas which are unable to be treated by lasers and peels, such as around the eyes
No heat cialis dapoxetine – reducing the risk of post inflammatory hyper pigmentation
Can be performed on all skin types
Can be used all over the body
Best results are seen after 2 – 4 treatments at 4 – 6 week intervals

What can go wrong ?

Overzealous treatments may result in scarring, hyper-pigmentation,infection and skin irritation.

Who isn’t a candidate for microneedling ?

Whilst most skin types are suitable for microneedling, people suffering skin infections, recent outbreak of herpes simplex, active acne, eczema, rosacea psoriasis or warts are not candidates for microneedling.

The verdict ?

Even with the current lack of evidence and studies supporting microneedling’s claims of skin rejuvenation, scar reduction and antiaging I can certainly understand the popularity of microneedling and anticipate future studies proving its benefits.

ASkinSolutions x

Have you had a micro needling treatment, i’d love to hear from you?

FROTOX – ICE ICE BABY !

April 15, 2015September 30, 2015Leave a comment

“Botox, I think, is poison, I would never put it into my face, and I’m needle-phobic. I spend a lot of time keeping my face out of the sun and taking care of my skin and wearing make- up”. -Joan Collins

For people like Joan, Frotox is fast gaining moment with the growing lifestlyle trend in all things healthy, organic and non-toxic. The ‘Organic Millennials’ want their faces to reflect their inner health and are looking for alternatives to BOTOX in the anti-aging Olympics!

A new cooler option is freezing your wrinkles, and it’s fast becoming an alternative to anti -wrinkle muscle relaxants.

Chillax…the answer is ‘Liquid Cold’!

Freezing temperatures have long been utilised in medicine. cryotherapy, lowering core body temp during surgery, pain management and more recently applications in anti-aging.

Iovera is a cryosurgical device and is the latest technology, touted as a toxic free option in the treatment of dynamic wrinkles. It is currently approved in Europe and undergoing trials in the US -unfortunately us Aussies will have to wait!

Iovera acts by harnessing Focused Cold Therapy (FCT).

FCT is used to block the signal released from the nerve to the muscle creating temporary relaxation of the muscle, which contributes to the formation of wrinkles – similar to the action of neurotoxic muscle relaxants.

Liquid Nitrogen (liquid cold) fills a closed ended needle sending a frozen jolt to the end of the needle, stunning the targeted nerve. The nerve stays temporarily paralysed for anywhere up to 4 months after which it ‘reenervates’ and the treatment needs to be repeated .

Dr. Vincent Wong who is an Harley St London Cosmetic Physician and regularly performs focused cold therapy, told The Daily Mail. “It’s a unique stand-alone treatment in its own right and shouldn’t be compared side-by-side with Botox or any botulinum toxins. Instead, we should think of it as an additional option available to people, especially those who do not want botulinum toxin injections or cannot have them due to medical reasons.