Skin Care Overview

Proper care is essential for maintaining the health of our skin, the body’s largest organ. Skin care practices aim to improve skin integrity, appearance, and address any issues.

About Skincare

Overview

Proper care is essential for maintaining the health of our skin, the body’s largest organ. Skin care practices aim to improve skin integrity, appearance, and address any issues. These practices include nutrition, sun protection, and proper skin care routine. Prioritizing skin care is crucial for overall health and well-being.

Explore the difference between OTC and medical grade skincare for better skin health and appearance. Let’s uncover their key distinctions.

  1. Formulation and Ingredients: One of the primary differences between OTC and medical grade skin care products lies in their formulation and ingredients. OTC products are generally formulated with lower concentrations of active ingredients, as they are designed for a broader consumer market. On the other hand, medical grade skin care products undergo rigorous testing and are formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients, such as retinoids, antioxidants, and peptides. These potent formulations allow for more targeted and effective results.
  2. Strength and Efficacy: Due to the variation in ingredient concentrations, medical grade skin care products are often considered stronger and more potent than their OTC counterparts. The higher concentration of active ingredients in medical grade products allows for deeper penetration into the skin, leading to enhanced efficacy and visible improvements in skin concerns, such as fine lines, acne, and hyperpigmentation. OTC products, while still beneficial for general skincare maintenance, may provide milder or slower results.
  3. Professional Guidance: Another significant difference is the involvement of a skincare professional in the case of medical grade products. These products are typically recommended, prescribed, or sold under the guidance of a dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or an aesthetician. These professionals can assess your specific skin concerns, recommend suitable medical grade products, and tailor a skincare routine to address your individual needs. OTC products, on the other hand, are readily available for purchase without professional guidance, making them more accessible but potentially less personalized.
  4. Regulatory Oversight: Medical grade skin care products are subject to stricter regulatory oversight compared to OTC products. They often undergo rigorous testing for safety, efficacy, and quality assurance. This ensures that medical grade products meet higher standards and are backed by scientific research. Conversely, OTC products may have limited regulation, and their claims might not be supported by extensive clinical studies.
  5. Targeted Solutions: Medical grade skin care products are specifically formulated to address various skin concerns, such as aging, acne, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation. They offer a range of targeted solutions and treatment options, including prescription-strength formulations that can only be obtained through a healthcare professional. OTC products, while providing general skincare benefits, may have a more generalized approach and may not offer the same level of specific treatment for complex skin conditions.
What Type of Skin Do I Have?

All skin types can benefit from daily cleansing and moisturizing, but different skin types, which include oily, dry, normal, combination, and sensitive skin, have different needs. That’s why understanding your skin type is the first step in properly caring for it.

  1. Oily skin is characterized by an overproduction of sebum, resulting in a shiny and greasy appearance, particularly in the T-zone of the face (forehead, nose, and chin). Individuals with oily skin may experience fewer wrinkles but are more susceptible to enlarged pores, acne, blackheads, and whiteheads, as noted by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). It is important to note that despite the increased natural oils produced by oily skin, it still requires proper hydration. Maintaining oily skin involves selecting suitable products that nourish and moisturize without causing pore blockages or breakouts. An effective skincare routine for oily skin should include a gentle, foaming cleanser to remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities. Additionally, a lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic moisturizer is essential to provide the necessary hydration for oily skin.
  2. Dry skin typically produces lower amounts of natural oils compared to other skin types, resulting in a lackluster appearance and potential roughness, flakiness, or scaliness. It often feels tight, dehydrated, and less elastic, with fine lines appearing more prominently. Dry skin may also experience sensations of itchiness or irritation. A skincare regimen tailored for dry skin should incorporate gentle, soothing, and hydrating ingredients that support the skin’s protective moisture barrier, such as ceramides. Dermatologists recommend individuals with dry skin to avoid prolonged, hot showers, moisturize frequently throughout the day, and select fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and alcohol-free skincare products.
  3. Normal skin is characterized by a balanced state, exhibiting neither excessive dryness nor oiliness. Individuals with normal skin do not commonly experience breakouts, flakiness, or sensations of greasiness or tightness. This skin type is typically characterized by small pores, a smooth texture, and a reduced susceptibility to sensitivity or blemishes. Despite the absence of specific issues or concerns, proper skincare is still essential for maintaining optimal appearance and feel of normal skin. An ideal skincare routine for normal skin focuses on preserving hydration levels, by effectively retaining moisture and reinforcing the skin’s protective barrier.
  4. Combination skin is characterized by regions that exhibit both dryness and oiliness, typically with the T-zone being prone to oiliness and the cheeks displaying dryness or normalcy. This skin type may experience fluctuations throughout the year and can be influenced by factors such as stress or hormonal changes. Proper cleansing and hydration are essential for maintaining optimal care of skin that presents with differing characteristics in various areas.
  5. Sensitive skin is commonly categorized as a skin type, encompassing oily sensitive skin, dry sensitive skin, or normal sensitive skin. Regardless of the specific skin type, individuals with sensitive skin may experience redness and sensations such as burning, itching, or dryness. These symptoms may be attributed to heightened susceptibility to external irritants, including certain ingredients like dyes or fragrance, as well as environmental factors. Individuals with sensitive skin can identify triggers for their sensitivity and subsequently avoid products containing these specific ingredients, such as cleansers or moisturizers. Moreover, modifying one’s environment to minimize exposure to triggering agents can also help alleviate symptoms of sensitivity.
Cleansing

A facial cleanser serves as the cornerstone of any skincare routine, playing a fundamental role in preparing the skin for subsequent products.

Gel Cleansers

Gel cleansers typically exhibit a denser, jelly-like texture and are commonly transparent in appearance. These aqueous solutions are recommended for preserving adequate skin moisture levels. They are known for their mild nature, effectively purifying the skin without causing excessive dryness.

Good for individuals with oily or combination skin.

Cream Cleansers

Cream cleansers are characterized by their luxurious and thick texture, which can provide a sense of indulgence to one’s skincare regimen. These cleansers are known for their gentle and hydrating properties, making them particularly suitable for individuals with dry or sensitive skin. For those who prefer a double cleansing routine, cream cleansers serve as an excellent option for the second step following the use of a foam or oil cleanser.

Good for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.

Foam cleansers

Foam cleansers are a suitable option for individuals with combination skin who prefer a single skincare product. These cleansing agents generate a rich foam when applied to the skin, effectively removing impurities and unclogging pores. They offer a blend of advantages typically associated with gel and cream cleansers.

Good for individuals with combination skin, oily skin or normal skin.

Cleansing lotions

Cleansing lotions typically exhibit a thinner and lighter consistency compared to cream formulations, yet both variants are known for their gentle and non-stripping properties. Additionally, cleansing lotions effectively cleanse the skin while simultaneously providing hydration, and can be easily removed by rinsing or wiping.

Good for individuals with sensitive skin, dry skin and normal skin.

Exfoliating cleansers

Exfoliating cleansers, also known as scrubs, are formulated with particles that delicately exfoliate the skin’s surface, effectively eliminating dirt and impurities while promoting the turnover of surface skin cells.

Good for individuals with oily, combination, and acne prone skin.

Cleansing Water

Cleansing water, specifically Micellar water, is characterized by its lightweight texture and potent cleansing capabilities. It is recommended as an initial cleanse in one’s skincare routine or for quick on-the-go cleansing when conventional products are not readily available. Gentle and non-abrasive, cleansing waters are suitable for all skin types and can effectively remove eye makeup as well.

Good for all skin types.

Hydration

Hydrating and moisturizing are different. Hydration is needed when skin lacks water, while moisture is needed for genetically dry skin.
Moisturizers create a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture and make it softer, while hydrators absorb moisture to keep it trapped.
Both are essential for elasticity and smoothness. If your skin is oily, you may not need much moisture, but hydration is always necessary.
Most skin products contain similar ingredients that moisturize and hydrate. The form of the product doesn’t affect its performance, it’s the ingredients that matter. Let us explore the different ingredients used for hydration and moisturizers.

Hydration

Humectants are substances that enhance skin hydration by attracting moisture from the surroundings to the skin. Additionally, they have the ability to extract water from the deeper dermal layers and transport it to the outermost epidermal layer of the skin.

Some examples of hydrating substances include:

  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Alpha hydroxy acids
  • Honey
  • Gelatin
  • Urea
  • Sorbitol
  • Panthenol
  • Glycerin

Moisturizers

If an individual’s natural skin barrier is weakened or compromised, there is a risk of experiencing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), wherein water is lost from the skin through evaporation. This process can be likened to the drying and cracking of the earth when it lacks protection and insulation.

Emollients act as insulation for skin by forming a hydrophobic barrier with varying levels of occlusivity. The ability to act as a hydrophobic barrier over the skin to seal in moisture and improve the skin matrix.

Some examples of emollients substances include:

Most occlusive

  • Silicones
  • Petrolatum
  • Paraffin
  • Mineral oil

Less occlusive

  • Grape seed
  • Olive oil

Occlusives that are comedogenic

  • Cocoa butter
  • Synthetic lanolin
  • Myristyl myristate
  • Octyl stearate
  • Sodium lauryl sulfate

Layering your skincare products correctly is crucial. Start with lighter products to penetrate the skin, followed by hydrators, and finish with emollient moisturizers. Thicker, creamier products with more lipid content should go on last, acting as a protective coat for the other layers.

Not sure what you need, schedule a consultation with a qualified medical provider or aesthetician to get a personalized skin care regimen.

Vitamin A/C

Here we discuss the amazing benefits of two powerhouse ingredients in skincare: topical retinoids and vitamin C. These two ingredients are widely recognized for their remarkable effects on improving skin health, texture, and appearance.

Topical Retinoids: Topical retinoids, derived from vitamin A, have gained significant popularity in the skincare industry. Here’s what they can do for your skin:

  • Stimulate Collagen Production: Retinoids promote collagen synthesis, a protein responsible for maintaining skin’s strength and elasticity. Increased collagen production helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of aging.
  • Improve Skin Texture: Regular use of retinoids can enhance skin texture by reducing roughness, minimizing pore size, and smoothing out uneven skin tone.
  • Enhance Cell Turnover: Retinoids accelerate the skin cell turnover process, allowing for the shedding of dead skin cells and the emergence of fresh, new cells. This leads to a more youthful and radiant complexion.
  • Address Acne and Breakouts: Retinoids are also effective in treating acne by unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and regulating sebum production.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a potent antioxidant that offers numerous benefits for skin health:

  • Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C protects the skin from harmful free radicals, which are molecules that can damage collagen and cause premature aging. By neutralizing free radicals, vitamin C helps maintain skin’s youthful appearance.
  • Brightening and Even Skin Tone: Vitamin C inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Regular use of vitamin C can help fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and promote a brighter complexion.
  • Collagen Synthesis: Similar to retinoids, vitamin C also stimulates collagen production, contributing to improved skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Sun Damage Protection: Vitamin C has been shown to provide some level of protection against harmful UV rays. While it’s not a substitute for sunscreen, incorporating vitamin C into your skincare routine can enhance your skin’s defense against sun damage.


Topical retinoids and vitamin C are two powerhouse ingredients with remarkable benefits for skin health. Incorporating these ingredients into your skincare routine can help improve skin texture, reduce signs of aging, address acne concerns, protect against free radicals, and promote a brighter, more youthful complexion. Remember to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the best products and usage guidelines for your specific needs.

Brightening

Let us discuss skin-brightening ingredients – hydroquinone, tranexamic acid, and kojic acid. These ingredients have gained popularity in skincare products due to their ability to address hyperpigmentation and promote a more even skin tone. In this article, we will discuss the effects of these ingredients on the skin and how they can benefit you.

Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation issues such as melasma, dark spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called tyrosinase, which plays a crucial role in melanin production. By reducing melanin production, hydroquinone helps to fade existing dark spots and prevent the formation of new ones. However, it’s essential to use hydroquinone under the guidance of a dermatologist or medical provider, as misuse or overuse can lead to potential side effects such as increase in pigmentation with chronic use.

Tranexamic Acid: Tranexamic acid is a relatively new addition to the skincare world but has shown promising results in treating hyperpigmentation. It works by inhibiting the production of plasmin, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of blood clots. Additionally, tranexamic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with certain skin conditions. By targeting both the underlying causes of hyperpigmentation and inflammation, tranexamic acid can effectively lighten dark spots and promote a more even complexion.

Kojic Acid: Kojic acid is derived from various fungi and is known for its skin-lightening properties. Similar to hydroquinone, kojic acid works by inhibiting tyrosinase activity, thereby reducing melanin production. It is commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation, age spots, and uneven skin tone. Kojic acid is also known for its antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from free radical damage and promote a more youthful appearance. However, it’s important to note that kojic acid may cause skin sensitivity in some individuals, so patch testing and gradual introduction into your skincare routine is recommended.

Hydroquinone, tranexamic acid, and kojic acid are powerful ingredients that can help address hyperpigmentation issues and promote a more even skin tone. While they have shown significant benefits, it’s crucial to use them under the guidance of a qualified medical provider and follow product instructions carefully. Remember, consistency and patience are key when it comes to achieving desired results with these ingredients.

Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. It can be frustrating and impact self-esteem, leading many individuals to seek out various treatments to help manage and reduce acne breakouts. Acne treatment can come in different forms, and the best method for you may be either medical or cosmetic treatments. One such cosmetic treatment option that is often considered is facials.

Understanding Acne: Before delving into the benefits of facials for acne, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of what acne is and its underlying causes. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This can result in the formation of whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, or even more severe forms like cysts or nodules. Hormonal fluctuations, excess oil production, certain medications, and genetic factors can all contribute to acne development.

The Role of Facials in Acne Treatment:
Facials, when performed by a trained skincare professional, can offer several benefits in managing acne. While they may not provide a complete cure for acne, they can significantly improve the condition of the skin and help prevent future breakouts. Here are some ways in which facials can assist in acne treatment:

  1. Deep Cleansing: One of the key components of a facial is thorough cleansing. Skincare professionals use specialized techniques and products to deeply cleanse the skin, removing dirt, excess oil, and impurities that can contribute to acne formation.
  2. Exfoliation: Facials often include exfoliation, which helps to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts. By eliminating this buildup, exfoliation promotes smoother, clearer skin.
  3. Extraction: A crucial step in many facials is the extraction of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and other impurities from the skin. This can help unclog pores, reducing the risk of acne formation and promoting a clearer complexion.
  4. Anti-inflammatory Benefits: Certain facial treatments incorporate ingredients such as salicylic acid or techniques that have anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation associated with acne, promoting a calmer and more balanced complexion.
  5. Customized Skincare: During a facial, skincare professionals can assess your skin type and condition, allowing them to tailor the treatment to address specific acne concerns. They may suitable products and provide guidance on a personalized skincare routine to target acne effectively.
  6. Relaxation and Stress Reduction: While not directly targeting acne, facials offer an opportunity for relaxation and stress reduction. Stress can worsen acne symptoms, so engaging in self-care practices like facials can contribute to overall well-being and potentially improve skin health.


Facials can be a valuable addition to an acne management routine, offering deep cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, anti-inflammatory benefits, customized skincare, and relaxation. However, it’s important to note that facials alone may not be sufficient to treat severe or persistent acne. Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional is recommended to develop a comprehensive acne treatment plan that may include facials alongside other targeted interventions. Remember, consistency and patience are key when addressing acne concerns, and individual results.

SPF

The difference:

Sunscreen and sunblock protect the skin from harmful UV rays in different ways. Sunscreen absorbs UV rays with chemicals, while sunblock physically blocks UV rays with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Sunscreen needs to be rubbed in and absorbed, while sunblock acts as a barrier on the skin. Both are important for preventing sun damage and skin cancer.

Potential side effects:

Using sunscreen correctly can minimize any potential side effects that may occur. It is crucial to choose the right sunscreen product for your specific skin type, especially if you have sensitive skin. There is always a risk of skin irritation or reaction when applying any product to your skin. Irritant contact dermatitis is a common reaction that can cause inflammation or irritation after sunscreen application. Some sunscreens may contain oil that could lead to pore-clogging and acne, while others may cause stinging or itching, particularly for those with sensitive skin. Consider using a sunscreen that is free of dye, perfumes, and fragrances if you have sensitive skin.

Pros and Cons of sun protection:

  • Sunscreens don’t leave a white residue, but may contain irritating ingredients
  • Sunblocks do not contain irritating ingredients, making them better for sensitive skin
  • The best sun protection product is one that you like and works for your needs
  • SPF of at least 30 is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology
  • Higher SPF numbers block more UVB rays, but no sunscreen can block 100%
  • UVB rays cause sunburns and can lead to skin cancer
  • UVA rays can penetrate deeper into the skin and also lead to skin cancer
  • Sun protection products should protect from both UVA and UVB rays.

Skin Care Procedures

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Explore Facials

Common Conditions

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Acne Scars
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Aesthetic Complications
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Age Spots
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Broken Capillaries
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Cellulite
Cellulite is a prevalent skin condition primarily affecting women. It…
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Collagen Depletion
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Double Chin
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Fitzpatrick Skin Type
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Gender affirming services
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Hair Loss
Hair loss refers to excessive shedding or thinning of hair…
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Hair Removal
Practitioners can eliminate unwanted hair from the body through various…
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Hand rejuvenation
Procedures to improve the appearance of the hands by restoring…
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Hooded Eyes
Hooded eyes refer to an eye shape characterized by an…
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Hyperpigmentation / Pigmentation
Pigmentation refers to the coloring of the skin, which is…
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Ingrown Hair
Folliculitis, or ingrown hairs, is a dermatological condition characterized by…
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Jowls
Jowls refer to the sagging skin and flesh along the…
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Large Pores
Large pores refer to visible openings on the skin surface,…
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Male Aesthetics
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Melasma
Melasma is a chronic skin disorder that causes brown or…
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Menopause
Menopause is the natural biological process marking the end of…
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Neck rejuvenation
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Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the…
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Scars
Scars are visible marks that result from the skin’s natural…
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Skin Laxity
Skin laxity refers to the loss of elasticity and firmness…
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Skin Redness
Skin redness refers to the visible flushing or reddening of…
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Skin Resurfacing
Skin resurfacing refers to improving the skin’s texture and appearance…
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Skin Texture
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Stretch Marks
Stretch marks, or striae, are visible lines or streaks on…
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Sun Damage
Sun damage refers to the harmful effects that prolonged exposure…
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Sun Spots
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Thin Eyebrows
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TMJ
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Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are a common issue due to weak or…
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Volume Restoration
Volume restoration refers to replenishing lost volume in specific areas…
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Wrinkles
Wrinkles are visible lines and creases that appear on the…