Healthy Exfoliation Part 2

Exfoliation and Acne Prone Skin

When dealing with acne, many think "drying" up the oil is the first line of defense.  Aggressive facial cleansing is next in the acne fighting arsenal.  Proper cleansing is important.  As is balancing excess oil.  However, proper exfoliation is VITAL in resolving acne and preventing future breakouts.


What is Acne?

Acne is a condition in which a follicle becomes blocked by dead skin cells.  This blockage causes inflammation and can lead to infection.  The infected follicle often erupts which manifests as a "white head" pimple.  Many infected and erupted follicles are referred to as a "break out".  A follicle that is  inflamed and infected below the surface of the skin is known as cystic acne. A blocked follicle that does not become infected, yet remains blocked with dirt, oil and debris, is called a comedone or "black head".  Black heads are not necessarily considered "acne".  However, a comedone can lead to an inflammed follicle.  And those who suffer with acne often deal with black heads.

Chemical vs. Mechanical Exfoliation for Acne

Although, mechanical exfoliation techniques work well for anti-aging concerns and can reduce the appearance of acne scarring, it is not our recommendation to fight or prevent active acne conditions.  We recommend chemical exfoliation via glycolic resurfacing treatments and our amazing Marini Refine Peel.  Home care using a glycolic resurfacing (exfoliation) product is also an important weapon to battle acne on a daily basis. Glycolic acid penetrates the the follicle deeply, breaking down the blockage and allowing the debris to come to the surface to be sloughed off.  Because glycolic acid involves bringing debris to the surface, there is an expected period of skin acclimation.  The duration is different for everyone.  However, if you experience breakouts, due to the clearing of a follicle, it will be less inflamed and heal more quickly.  Speak with your esthetician if breakouts persist. We have a variety of products for resistant acne conditions.


Exfoliation for Dry Skin

Dry skin will often cling to the surface of your skin, creating a dull complexion.  We recommend using the Skin Zyme mask.  This product offers gentle exfoliation, leaving the skin looking polished smooth.  Our Skin Zyme mask has the ability to digest dead skin cells without harming sensitive or irritated tissues.  Often dry skin can be easily irritated and feel sensitive.  So, Skin Zyme's gentle proteolytic enzyme action from Papain (Green Unripened Papaya) is a great fit for those dealing with dryness.  We also offer a WONDERFUL Express Facial using the same ezymatic technology, for those on the go.

Exfoliators to Avoid

We highly recommend staying away from ultra gritty over-the-counter or drug store exfoliating products such as, the infamous apricot "scrub".  These products are too abrasive for delicate facial skin and can cause more harm than good.  Also avoid home "remedy" or Pinterest "recipes" for exfoliating scrubs or masks.  These recipes often call for ingredients such as, lemon juice, baking soda, or various vinegars.  Putting these products on your face can disrupt your skin's natural acid mantle, causing a host of problems.  Not to mention, none of these exfoliation techniques are medically validated as effective ways to lighten hyperpigmentation, reduce the appearance scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, or clear up acne conditions.

Before choosing an exfoliation product or service, please let us guide you according to your personal areas of concern.  We encourage you to schedule a FREE skin consultation by calling 209-369-9191 or by clicking  HERE to schedule online.

Skin Accumax...Clearing Acne from the Inside Out!

We are so excited to announce a new project here at the Studio! We have recently been introduced to a new Skincare Supplement by our partners at Jane Iredale Skincare Makeup. We have never carried anything like this here at the Salon. Please watch the short video posted above for an introduction to Skin Accumax!

 This product got our attention for three reasons:

1. This skincare supplement is the ONLY product (outside of their own make-up line) endorsed by Jane Iredale Skincare Make-up, a company we have partnered with and trusted for over 10 years.
2. We have seen many testimonials from people who have started Skin Accumax and seen amazing results in their skin all over the body, as well as in their hair and nails.
3. Our skincare professionals here at the salon believe that healthy skin starts from the inside out. We encourage our clients to practice healthy diets along with their clinically proven skincare and pharmaceutical grade make-up to get the best results in their skincare. Therefore, a skincare supplement makes sense to add to your healthy lifestyle!

Even though this product has amazing reviews and countless studies, we have decided to have our own study here at the salon before we commit to carrying it and offering it to our clients. We have chosen two clients with different skincare issues to try Skin Accumax. This will be a 4 month trial, starting Sept 1 ending in January. At the beginning of each month we will post a blog that will contain:

1. Before & After pictures
2. Testimonials and notes taken by the clients themselves documenting changes they see in their skin.
3. Testimonials and notes taken by our Skincare Professionals here at the salon, documenting changes that they see.
4. AccuFACTS (a fact about Skin Accumax that will answer any questions you may have.)

AccuFact: 
Skin Accumax is a skincare supplement that is suitable for all skin types as well as problem skin. As it works from the inside, not only face but the skin ALL OVER your body will reveal its natural radiance. Scientists have blended a very specific combination of vitamins with a special phytonutrient identified in cruciferous vegetables. This precise concentration of active ingredients has a powerful effect on the health of the skin and has been patented.

Here are before pictures of our clients at the baseline of starting Skin Accumax. 

Client #1 is 26 years old and has been struggling with acne since he was 12. He is currently using Jan Marini's Skin care management system and Duality which has helped control the breakouts significantly and also minimized deep acne scars. He is hoping that using a supplement will take his skincare regime to the next level by working inside out. He will continue to use his topical skincare regime along with the supplement.

Client #2 is 19 and has been struggling with cystic acne since she was 13.  She is currently using a face wash by nuetrogena. She is hoping that Skin Accumax will help control her oily skin and along with that have fewer/no breakouts. She also tends to break out on her shoulders and back and would like to see that clear up as well. Healthy hair and nails could also be a side effect of using the supplement which would be an added bonus for her.

 "I've taken vitamins all my life. I believe in their ability to improve your overall health, now I believe in their ability to improve the health of our SKIN! I discovered Skin Accumax in England and immediately know that it was a perfect compliment to our makeup. During the year that we've been using Skin Accumax, we've seen amazing results. I've added it to my regime just because it makes my non-problem skin look and feel better! Skin Accumax is, in fact, a food for everyone's skin." -Jane Iredale

Our team of estheticians here at The Make-up & Skincare Studio are excited to put this product to the test and we hope you will follow along weekly via Facebook,   and Instragram (follow us @skinpros) and check back here on our blog for a monthly update! If you have questions please call anytime at 209-369-9191

Healthy Exfoliation Part 1

Summer is winding down.  Your skin has had its fill of fun in the sun (water,wind, heat, sand, salt and chlorine).  Now is the time to seriously consider your options for healthy exfoliation and skin rejuvenation.  

September is the perfect time to start practicing a healthy skin care routine at home with professional guidance.  It's also a great time to commit to facials and treatments as recommended by our skin care team.  Combining home care products and routine facials/treatments will target your personal skin care concerns and deliver the results you deserve!

 What is Exfoliation?

Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells that adhere to the the outermost layer of the skin called the epidermis.  Exfoliation is SO important for healthy looking skin, that we will be dedicating two blog posts on the subject.

Exfoliation and Aging Skin

Exfoliation is a natural function of our skin. And it is essential for a healthy and youthful looking complexion.  As we age the rate at which our skin cells turnover or regenerate, die & slough off, slows down.  Exfoliation via medically validated skin care products and professional treatments is your best option to help your skin increase its slowing cell turnover.  Aggressively removing these dead skin cells will reveal the fresh glowing skin hidden beneath!

Exfoliation Options for Aging Skin

There are two different options for exfoliation when dealing with signs of aging.  One is mechanical exfoliation and the other is chemical exfoliation.  We provide both methods here at The Studio. We use microdermabrasion to mechanically remove the surface layers of dead skin cells.  This is a painless procedure that helps smooth the look of fine lines, wrinkles and light scarring.  Your skin will feel instantly smoother, softer and will glow!

Our chemical exfoliation options include a series of Glycolic Treatments or our Marini Refine Peels.  These treatments use a combination of enzymes, acids and retinol (depending on the treatment) to remove the outermost layers of the epidermis and rejuvenate the skin with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.

It's best to schedule a FREE skin consultation and meet with one of our experienced licensed estheticians to determine which method would be most beneficial for your specific skin concerns.

Stay tuned for part 2 of this post.  We will be discussing how exfoliation is beneficial for those who suffer with acne and dry skin.  And which of exfoliation products to avoid!


 Fall Announcements:

Aimee is back in the studio! Next time you are in the neighborhood, stop by and welcome her back!  She'd LOVE to see you.

We have a land line! You may now schedule appointments, get product refills and contact our skin care team by calling The Studio directly at 209-369-9191. Someone will be able to help you.  We hope this adds convenience to your experience here at The Studio.  Our clients are our number one priority!

The Jane Iredale Fall Collection "City Nights" is HERE!  Don't forget to make time to try it at your next facial or wax appointment.  Or just pop by during store hours and we'll be happy to assist you.  Stay tuned for more on this universal collection that ANYONE can wear well!

Skin Taboo: Body Acne

Hot Summer weather leads to baring more skin than usual.  In my last blog post, I discussed the importance of protecting exposed skin from the sun's UV rays.  This month, we're focusing on how some may dread this sizzling season, because less clothing often means exposing a secret hidden the remaining nine months of the year....body acne.

Acne is often thought of as a skin condition of the face.  However, acne doesn't discriminate.  Pimples can pop up anywhere there is a hair follicle.  And being classified as mammals, that pretty much means anywhere on our bodies.

The image above shows the stages of acne occurring within the follicle.  Many people deal with acne breakouts on the chest, back, shoulders and other areas of the body that are easy to keep hidden...until SUMMER!

So, what can you do about these nasty breakouts, besides covering up during the hottest months of the year?  That's where we come in!

1. We offer Enzyme Back Treatments for back acne a.k.a "bacne".

This Proteolytic Enzyme Back Treatment is a scientifically based method of exfoliation & skin resurfacing. Clients will see an immediate improvement in skin texture and clarity. This treatment is ideal for clients experiencing acne breakouts on their back.  Schedule your back treatment by clicking HERE.  

2.  Treat your skin at home with our effective products from Jan Marini Skin Research.

Try our Glycolic Body Scrub

 

• Combines glycolic acid and polished granules to provide an exceptional level of body skin rejuvenation
• Immediately and dramatically retexturizes, smoothes and softens body skin

with our Glycolic Body Lotion

• Resurfaces skin texture and encourages the supple smooth quality of young healthy skin
• Re-contours and smoothes textural irregularities.  

 3. Avoid a diet high in sugars and dairy.

Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that could worsen by eating foods that increase systemic inflammation.  Foods high in sugars are notorious for exacerbating acne.  Also, dairy contains naturally occurring hormones that may induce acne flare ups.

If the problem persists, speak with one of our highly trained licensed estheticians for more acne fighting options.

As you can see, there are many options to help combat this skin taboo.  You can get your body acne under control and avoid your annual dose of Summer embarrassment. It takes consistent use of the medically validated skin care products we offer at The Make-up & Skin Care Studio.

 July Announcements

Stay tuned for details on our new classes coming in August!  Follow us on Instagram @skinpros & Facebook for the latest news at The Make-up & Skin Care Studio at Texture Salon.

Soak up the Sun?

Summer is upon us!  And it's time to talk about how to get a great  Summer glow.  Before we dive into that, I'm going to share some key information regarding the sun's rays and your skin.

A Few Facts

1. The sun gives us 2 types of ultraviolet radiation.  UVA (long wave) & UVB (short wave) radiation.  How do these rays affect you?  Well, 80% of the visible signs of aging is from sun exposure. This leads to premature aging and skin cancers.  It can also cause damage to your eyes, such as cataracts.

(UVA rays penetrate more deeply)

An easy way to remember the the consequences of exposure to ultraviolet radiation is to think:

UVA=A for Aging

UVB=B for Burning

2.  There is no such thing as a "safe" tan.  Tanning is your skin's defense against UV radiation.  Simply stated, when you tan your skin is injured on a cellular level.

3. Sun exposure is not a reliable source of vitamin D.  Factors like the amount of skin exposed, duration of exposure, time of year, weather, and geographical location all play a role in the amount of vitamin D your body actually makes through sun exposure.  A vitamin D supplement is your best option to obtain consistent healthy doses of vitamin without the risk of sun damage and cancer.

Protect Yourself by

1. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher EVERY DAY

(remember coconut oil is NOT a sunscreen)

2. Seeking shade when outdoors 

UVB rays are strongest between 10am - 4pm

3. Wearing a full brimmed hat and sunglasses

4. NOT BURNING

5. Avoiding tanning beds

"People who use tanning salons are 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma, and 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma. According to recent research, first exposure to tanning beds in youth increases melanoma risk by 75 percent."

-Skin Cancer Foundation 

Glow Safely this Summer by

1. Going with your natural glow &

embracing the skin you were born with!

2. Using bronzers like SO-Bronze by Jane Iredale

3. Using a safe sunless tanning product like Tantasia.

I love this product, because it's two products in one.  

If you have any questions regarding how to protect yourself from sun damage or how to decrease the signs of sun damage; go to our website and book a FREE skin consultation.

Christy Goes Cuckoo for Coconuts

I've heard a lot of buzz online and among my social circles about the benefits of coconut and argan oil.  However, the biggest buzz is around coconut oil.  People are claiming that coconut oil is an excellent cleanser, moisturizer, acne cure...and yes, even SUNSCREEN!  I have the biggest issue with that last one!  Even thinking that an oil should be used as a SUNSCREEN is down right dangerous!  Shame on those who use the words "coconut oil" and "SPF" in the same sentence!

Although there is a TON of TALK surrounding coconut oil, there is very little clinical evidence that backs up any of these claims.  In fact, most of this information is based on the personal testimonies of bloggers.  They are not scientists, doctors, nurses, or trained skin care professionals.  Their claims are not based on clinical trials or scientific studies.   So, going with very little hard evidence backing these claims, I quit my Jan Marini Skin Care Management System (which is medically validated) and went cuckoo for coconut oil!

I  used organic fractionated coconut oil as a cleanser and organic 100% pure Moroccan argan oil as my moisturizer for one week.  I went with argan oil as my moisturizer, because it feels less greasy than the coconut oil.  Not wanting to increase my risk of skin cancer, I did forego using coconut oil as sun protection.  I used a mineral powder sun screen that carries the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation.

I broke out under my chin the very next morning!  Within just TWO days, I had about eight lesions including a big PAINFULLY deep acne cyst on my forehead.  For those who struggle with break outs, my pictures below my not seem shocking.  But you need to understand that I've been on AMAZING skin care for about two years now and this NEVER happens!  I may get one spot that pops up during my "lady cycle" once a month.  However, it's usually very superficial and gone within a day or two.

 

Despite wanting to stop my experiment with these oils after the first day, I stuck it out for the whole week.  The coconut oil "cleanser" didn't cleanse my skin at all.  It did emulsify my makeup, which made it easier for my washcloth to do the real work of cleansing by removing the grime.  However, my skin was never really clean.  I could feel the film of dirty oil stuck to my skin even after I washed it with water.  Remember when oil emulsifies, the "dirt" is now mixed in with the oil.  So, as long as that oily film remains on my face, so does the dirt.  The skin is never really cleansed of impurities. 

 

My skin not only felt dirty, it also felt either super greasy or really dry the entire week.  The argan oil is less greasy than coconut oil, but it's greasy nonetheless.  The grease slick would wear off throughout the day leaving my skin feeling dry and unprotected. 

 

Based on my personal experience and as a skin care professional, I would NOT recommend these oils  for skin care purposes.

 

Coconut oil does not cut it as a cleanser.

 

Coconut and argan oils do not

provide adequate daily hydration.

 

OILS ARE NOT SUN PROTECTION!!!

 

Oils are not exfoliators. 

 

Oils do not clear out the

follicle in order to prevent acne.

 

Oils do not create an oxygen rich environment

within the follicle killing P. acnes bacteria.

 

However, some* OILS make FABULOUS salad dressing!

 

I understand that people want natural skin care solutions.  However, there are a lot of things in this world that are natural (like lead, arsenic and UV radiation), but that doesn't mean you should expose you skin to it!  And "cheap & natural" skin care doesn't equate "high quality & clinically effective" skin care. 

 

If you are looking for skin care solutions that WORK, book a FREE skin consultation with one of our highly trained licensed estheticians!

 

 

*not all oils are edible.

Match Makers

 

 

It's February!  This season of LOVE can be wonderful...if you've found your perfect match.  If you haven't yet found your perfect match, February can be an irritating reminder of a less-than-perfect love life.

 

Finding the perfect match is not only important in LOVE, it's also vital when looking for the right foundation!

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Here are a few scenarios in which finding Mr. Right & Fabulous Foundation can seem surprising similar.

 

1.  You walk into the "market" and take a quick look at your options.  You see a decent looking specimen, swipe it off the shelf and take it home without even testing it first.  You get home and try it out. You are surprised when its performance doesn't live up to your expectations back at the "market".  Another wasted product gets tossed into your drawer overflowing with the results of hasty shopping.  This isn't the first time you've wasted time and money on the wrong foundation.

 

2.  You decide to "class it up" this time and mosey into an upscale establishment.  You browse the "counter" and get to know a little more about your options.  This time you sample the foundation.  You touch it, feel it and try it on.  You're told all about the wonderful benefits that are promised to you, if you take it home. The product is marketed very well and the price point is higher.  It's got to be quality...right?  But, when you take it home and use it for a while you realize that it's just not working out for you.  It doesn't live up to all the hype spoon-fed to you at the "counter".  It's not the perfect match.  Into the drawer it goes, right next to the cheap stuff from the "market".

 

3. You've repeated scenarios 1 and 2 so many times that you've given up looking for the perfect match.  You either quit wearing foundation altogether or you settle for less than you deserve.

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Do any of these scenarios sound familiar to you?  You deserve SO much more from your foundation!  There is a PERFECT MATCH for you!  And our match makers can help you find it.

 

We have FIVE different types of foundation in a WIDE range of shades, finishes and degrees of coverage.  Our foundations, by Jane Iredale, have no oil, talc, FD&C dyes, synthetic preservatives, parabens, or synthetic fragrances.  They are super water-resistant, all-day wearing, protective, mineral foundations that actually encourage your skin to breathe!  You are sure to find your PERFECT MATCH!

 

 

The Match Makers of

The Make-up & Skin Care Studio

 

Walk-in foundation "match making" sessions are welcome:

 Tuesdays 3:30-6:00

Fridays 2:00-5:30

 

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