SkinTipTuesdays || Tipping a Winner…or Not!

November 15, 2016June 28, 2017Leave a comment

Well I never.…. who could have predicted America’s political #trumptastrophy…and I didn’t, as didn’t a lot of other people?

Judging from my Instagram feed and the media fallout post election, most people are incredulous at the unexpected outcome of the American Presidential campaign.

I, alongside many other people, sit mouth agape, amongst the campaign carnage, perplexed and amazed at how ‘the Donald’ actually ‘Trumped’ his way to victory?

In my mind, @HellYeahforHillary was going to romp it in, but now both Hill and I are having to ‘fall on our swords’ and, ‘concede defeat. Obvious now I didn’t tip the winner and with the benefit of hindsight, I’m graciously withdrawing from my inaccurate forecasting of American politics, taking a tip from the universe and sticking to what I do know. Skin!

Instagram users have an insatiable appetite for skin care tips and like the American staple of buffalo wings with blue cheese dressing: one is never quite enough is it? Bring on #SkinTipTuesdays!

Instagram SkinTipTuesdays are where I feed practical tips and science, evidenced based skin care advice, to those devoted to all things skin, on Instagram. Tips which deconstruct and demystify the ‘smoke and mirrors’ surrounding skincare, helping you get more bang from your skin care buck.

So ‘Skin Up’, back away from those buffalo wings, and console yourself with a generous serving of my favourite #SkinTipTuesdays Instagram posts…… reliable, winning tips with a ‘proven projected’ outcome !

16. 0f My Top #SkinTipTuesdays 2016!

1. HYDRATE on repeat!

Hydration is what keeps the cellular processes in our body functioning optimally. For every alcoholic drink your body expels 4 glasses of water! Its recommended to alternate every 1-2 alcoholic drinks with a glass of water

2.Your lips are often a good indicator of when your skin needs more moisture.

If your lips are feeling a bit dry, humidity may have dropped and it might be time to add more moisture into your skincare routine.

3.Keep EYECREAMS in the fridge!

Not only does it extend the shelf life of the product, it is soothing whilst having a vasocontricting (tightening) effect on blood vessels helping to reduce redness and puffiness.

4. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, important for skin health.

Vitamin C is very unstable when exposed to air and light, turning a brown/orange colour. Any skin preparations containing Vitamin C or Ascorbic Acid which have discoloured should be discarded. This means they’ve oxidised and cannot provide any skin benefits! Tip;Use your vitamin C at night!

5.When performing your routine skin checks for skin cancer, Ensure the skin underneath TATTOOS are thoroughly checked as they can disguise new skin growths and moles especially if the ink is dark!

6.Avoid using over-the-counter skin care products containing RETINOL and prescription retinoids

Discontinue Vit A derivatives two to five days prior to waxing.Vit A increases photosensitivity in the skin creating an increased risk of burning when exposed to UV light and light based treatments, and also helps to reduce the risk of removing skin along with hair when waxing.

7. ACNE News

Isotretinoin is still the gold standard when treating Acne Vulgaris. A new study shows the combination of isotretinoin together with antihistamines have a significant decrease in acne lesion counts, sebum, erythema and side effects such as dry skin and mucous membranes caused by isotretinoin.

8. To B3 or not to B3?

Cosmeceutical companies are taking advantage of the many benefits of Vitamin B3. In skincare products you’ll recognise it as niacinamide, nicotinic and nicotinate esters. Niacinamide is most commonly used as it’s able to penetrate the skin without causing irritation.Some of It’s many benefits include;• enhances barrier function • helps reduce sensitivity and irritation • acts as a skin lightener- preventing the transfer of melanin to skin cells • helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles • helps to reduce the onset of Actinic Keratosis We should definitely B3ing!

9.Get the best out of your products by knowing when to use them, it’s all in the timing!

✔️AM || use products containing sunscreen and antioxidants.

✔️PM || Retinols and richer more nourishing products.

10. Lets get Fruity

Fruit enzymes are used in ‘exfoliators’ to help remove superficial layers of the skin,improving texture, hydration, pigmentation and assisting in the absorption of companion skincare products. Types of enzymes used include bromelain- derived from pineapples, and papain – derived from papaya; allergies from papain are very common so it’s a good idea to patch test prior to use. Tip || Test on the inside of the forearm once a day for 3 days, checking for any redness or irritation….any irritation will be your stop light!

11.Get more out of your products by applying to damp skin-helps skin absorption and easier application.

12.October is breast cancer awareness month and a good time to remind us all to check our breasts regularly. Something else to look out for are changes in skin colour and texture.

When the lymph vessels that help our bodies fight infection become blocked by cancer cells, they can cause the breast skin to change in colour and texture. Redness, swelling, itching, scaling, dimpled or skin which becomes puckered are signs you need to get checked …just saying!

13. Retinols/Retinoids/Vitamin A are all degraded by light or when exposed to air.

In order to maintain product efficacy correct packaging is important, that is; a pump which reduces oxidation when exposed to air or metal packaging preventing light degradation. A shelf life of 6-9 mths can be expected.

14. MYTH BUSTING

A common misconception is that wounds should be air dried and a scab allowed to form. Recent studies now confirm that keeping wounds moist and covered with dressings not only reduces pain and the risk of infection but also results in faster healing times when compared to dry wound healing.’ ….busting a myth from my recent blog in SCAR FREE || TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR SCAR MINIMISATION EXPLAINED!

15. If your skin care products are packaged in a pot,,inhibit bacteria growth by using a spatula rather than fingers when applying to your face!

16. HOT HOT HOT || SUNSCREEN TIPS!

Here’s one of my helpful tips from an older blog post – apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before you go into the sun and then again 15-30 mins after sun exposure begins – this is the key to protection! Titanium and zinc based sunscreens offer immediate protection.

If you’ve developed an appetite for #SkinTipTuesday come join me on Instagram every Tuesday, I’d love to see you!

Susan x

A BUMPY RIDE……Treatment Options for Keratosis Pilaris or Chicken Skin!

July 26, 2016December 15, 2016Leave a comment

The warmer months are when we’re more likely to see and feel the dry bumpy, sandpaper-like skin that flags the skin condition keratosis pilaris. Summer can be an embarrassing time for sufferers, and is when we’re more likely to notice the dry, sometimes itchy and inflamed bumps that resemble chicken skin; although the colder, drier months are when the condition typically worsens in appearance.

If you can answer yes to any of the following questions you’re probably suffering from this common, easily identified, benign skin condition called keratosis pilaris or ‘chicken skin’.

Do you have skin, which looks perpetually goose-bumped or cold?
Do you suffer from dry, bumpy skin on your upper arms, thighs or bottom?
Do the bumps tend to worsen during dry weather?

Don’t get ‘cooped up’, Keratosis pilaris is not infectious or life threatening, just cosmetically displeasing. Whilst there’s no ‘cure all’ for this chronic skin condition, thankfully, there are many treatment options which can relieve the symptoms and help to reduce the appearance.

For some, keratosis pilaris causes sufferers to become extremely self-conscious, continuing to wear winter clothing long into sweltering summer conditions for fear of exposing their chicken skinned bingo wings, to the queuing anonymous behind them at the local supermarket.

If teenage years aren’t difficult enough…..

Keratosis pilaris affects 50-80% of adolescents and commonly presents in puberty, resolving for the majority of sufferers in adulthood. No need to cry ‘fowl’ of this embarrassing condition, ‘cluck’ into action; there are treatment options available!

What is it?

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition characterised by rough, dry patches and tiny bumps on the upper arms thighs cheeks or bottom. Keratosis pilaris is a buildup of skin cells called keratin which form a plug, blocking the hair follicle, forming the bump.Sometimes a small hair may be coiled beneath the bump.

Why do we get it?

The origin of keratosis pilaris is unknown but it more frequently affects people with dry skin or sufferers of other skin conditions. It may also be an inherited condition affecting more females than males.

Although there is no known cause there appears to be a strong genetic link; 30-50 % of sufferers have a family history of keratosis pilaris, also people who also suffer with atopic dermatitis, dry skin, asthma and allergies have an increased predisposition.

What can be done-Scratching around for treatment options!

Avoid cleansers containing sodium lauryl sulfates which may irritate the skin, instead use mild, gentle, non-soap cleansers such as an oil based cleanser.
Moisturise daily and often where possible.
Include Alpha Hydroxy Acids in moisturisers to help exfoliate dry skin such as lactic and glycolic acid.
Use loofahs or mitts to gently exfoliate the affected areas during showering, avoiding if bumps are inflamed.
If the affected area is inflamed, consider salicylic acid which will help with exfoliation in addition to helping to reduce inflammation – salicylic get levitra pills new is commonly seen in formulation with Urea cream.
Urea cream is a keratolytic used in helping to breakdown hard, scaly skin.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Lasers have also been found to be helpful with improving the overall skin texture and in reducing redness.

Keratosis pilaris “don’ts”

Don’t use harsh soaps cialis vente libre pharmacie france or cleansers.
Don’t scrub harshly or try to scrape off the skin especially if the area is inflamed.
Don’t expect immediate results with topical creams; be patient, diligent and consistent!
Never give up hope.

In-clinic, I always try to encourage my clients to begin with the ‘KISS’ approach before embarking on expensive alternative treatment options; often the simple treatments result in the best outcomes. Remember, keratosis pilaris is a chronic skin condition requiring patience and long term maintenance for optimal results.

ASkinSolutions x

Do you have any treatment options which have worked, I’d love to hear them?

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?