Actually, that's a little misleading: Sunscreens are for anytime, not just the summer months. Improvements in sunscreen technology have brought us greater protection from damaging ultraviolet rays, better texture and absorption, and products that are very easy to incorporate into your everyday skin care program.
A few of the products that I use and recommend to clients are:
Sunscreens are particularly important for my clients who take advantage of peels and other forms of exfoliation. I encourage my studio clients to re-evaluate their sunscreen needs so their choice reflects their skin's condition and their activity level, and am happy to discuss these options with you during your next visit or by phone or email.+ La Roche Posay Anthelios SX (15 SPF): A light, nongreasy daily moisturizer that offers ultraviolet protection with Mexoryl SX, this is an excellent product and should be the minimum protection you use. Like many products from La Roche Posay, this is a staple in many of my clients' skin care programs. It is fragrance-free and PABA-free, has a wonderfully light texture, and provides comprehensive UVA and UVB protection.
+ La Roche Posay 40 SPF and 60 SPF: For greater protection, I highly recommend these 40- and 60-SPF products. The 60 SPF is in short supply and can be difficult to obtain, but I would be happy to discuss with you which would be appropriate for your skin.
+ Another great choice is Darphin's SPF 30. I've been a fan of many Darphin products for years, and their SPF 30 has a pleasing texture and scent. Whether or not you use other Darphin products, their SPF 30 may be a good option for a daily sunscreen.
Many of my clients--women and men--rely on the healing qualities of Neocutis to repair and nourish their skin. It's a versatile and incredibly effective product whether the concern is speeding recovery from chemical or surgical procedures or minimizing razor burn and post-shaving irritation.
An internationally respected biopharmaceutical company, Neocutis does not introduce products without substantial research and development, so when I learned of their newest product--Hyalis--I knew I'd need to learn more.
Hyalis is a fast-acting 1% hyaluronate refining serum that delivers immediate moisture to relieve dryness. In addition, it smoothes and plumps the skin and minimizes signs of aging. It is an exceptional addition to a program for skin that is recovering from cosmetic procedures or skin that is being treated for many conditions with other products that may dry the skin.
Free of skin irritants, Hyalis is also oil-free, non-comedogenic, dermatologist tested, and recommended for all skin types.
My clients who have come to know and love my Silk Peel treatment will find Hyalis to be an excellent supplement. Hyaluronic acid, which plays a key role in both my Silk Peel treatments and the development of Hyalis, is a moisture-holding substance:Like a sponge, it can absorb up to 1,000 times its weight in water! What this means for skin care is that hyaluronic-based treatments can provide unparalleled moisture, restore elasticity, and give skin a more radiant appearance.
For those of you who would like more information about Hyalis or about my Silk Peel treatments as part of a facial program, please contact me for more information.
I am pleased to announce a new product in my studio: MEG Products.
MEG Products are the latest in scientifically-tested skin care treatments. Available in two formulations, MEG contains Supplamine, a skin supplement that was formulated to counteract the appearance of aging caused by 3DG (3-deoxyglucosone). 3DG is a compound we produce naturally, and researchers believe it is one of the key factors of aging.
Discovered and developed in the course of cancer and diabetes research, Supplamine reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increases moisture and skin glow and improves overall skin texture, firmness and smoothness, and results are noticeable in 30 days. Visible wrinkles appear smooth, droopy skin appears firmer, flaking dry patches are less visible, and crepe paper-like skin becomes smooth.
Both MEG-21 and MEG-32 have been formulated to be used twice daily, as a moisturizer. MEG-21 is designed for the face; MEG-32 is designed for the neck, decollete, and arms. I highly recommend MEG Products in conjunction with the RevaleSkin, NIA, and human/plant growth products that I carry in my studio. I am also recommending MEG Products for my clients who have sensitive skin, who are using Retin-A, or who have had peels.
Because skin changes over the course of a year, and from year to year, I encourage my clients to contact me for a personal recommendation. I'll be happy to discuss your current skin care program and whether MEG Products are appropriate for you.
I'm pleased to announce another fantastic addition to my studio product line: RevaléSkin.
RevaléSkin is a CoffeeBerry extract that is produced from the juice within coffee berries.
CoffeeBerry is a name to describe the whole fruit of the coffee bush. Like many plants, coffee distributes its powerful nutrition throughout the whole fruit, not just the seed. CoffeeBerry extract contains the most powerful natural antioxidant yet discovered. It is exceptionally high in polyphenol antioxidants--dramatically higher than either pomegranate or green tea. Chlorogenic acid, condensed proanthocyanidins, quinic acid, and ferulic acid all prevent and repair damage caused by free radical exposure.
How will this benefit the skin? Studies have shown that by applying a skin cream or skin product containing CoffeeBerry extract regularly, the skin's appearance can show improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, smoothness, discoloration, and an increase in hydration. Patients during clinical trials have seen 46% decrease in wrinkles and 64% improvement in the softness of their skin. Improvement was also seen in discoloration and in dry and combination skin conditions.
I'm now able to offer the three RevaléSkin products. Individually they're outstanding, but you'll see the greatest difference when they work in tandem:
† RevaléSkin Day Cream is made with 1% CoffeeBerry, clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 15 SPF
† RevaléSkin Night Cream, which complements the Day Cream; and
† RevaléSkin Facial Cleanser clarifies the skin gently and thoroughly.
Contact me if you have questions about RevaléSkin and your skin care program or if you would like to purchase any of the products.
Yu-Be moisturizing cream has been a staple of skin care in Japan for 50 years, and I was introduced to it by a client. I love this cream for dry hands, cuticles, feet--anywhere the skin tends to dry and roughen.
Summer and warmer temperatures mean cooler (and more revealing) clothing and shoe choices. Rough spots--like elbows and heels--that may have been out of sight during the winter months are now in full view, so there's no time like the present to take action!
Apply Yu-Be twice a day (morning and evening) and you will be amazed at how great this cream is. I carry two sizes in the studio: a 4.25-oz jar and a 1.25-oz tube, perfect for carrying with you.
Yu-Be is a glycerin-based cream that is enriched with vitamins E, B2, and camphor. It does not contain artificial colors or fragrance. The combination of its ingredients is key, and they serve many purposes: glycerin attracts and retains moisture; vitamin E is a natural antioxidant; vitamin B2 helps sooth and heal rough, damaged skin; and camphor helps soothe irritation and improves blood circulation.
For many years Yu-Be was available only from Japan. Now that it is available here in the States I'm pleased to carry it in my studio.
Contact me if you have questions about Yu-Be or would like to purchase a tube or a jar (or both!) for your summer skin-care!
Research has shown that signs of aging are overwhelmingly caused by exposure to UVA radiation from sunlight, and sun damage is high on the list of the causes of premature aging and skin cancer.
For this reason, I have added La Roche-Posay's Anthelios SX 15 spf into my skin care retail line. This sunblock is a full block (UVA and UVB), light in texture, and a wonderful addition to your skin care. Although a good sunblock is important all year 'round, with summer around the corner I like to take the opportunity to remind my clients of the importance of having an everyday sunblock in their routine--and of using that sunblock every day! It doesn't help if it's not on your skin!
Anthelios SX is a must-have for everyone. I am also pleased to have a limited supply of Anthelios 60 spf for clients who require more substantial sun protection.
Why am I so enthusiastic?
Because Anthelios uses Mexoryl, which protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. Many sunblocks only block UVB rays, regardless of how high the spf. Dr. Vincent DeLeo, the chairman of dermatology at Columbia University, has called it a product "which gives us almost perfect protection against sunshine." Local colleagues agree: It's a fantastic choice for sun protection.
Mexoryl was approved by the FDA in 2006 after previously being available only in products in Europe, Canada, and Mexico. In the October 22, 2006 New York Times, Dr. Darrell Rigel, the president-elect of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, was quoted as calling this ingredient one of "the greatest breakthroughs in preventing skin cancer in a decade."
This month, Anthelios SX received the outstanding recognition from the CEW (Cosmetic Executive Women) organization as one of the Best Innovations of 2007 in the Sun Product Category. This is the beauty industry's highest honor, and this is a testament of the benefits that Anthelios SX brings to consumers in terms of UV protection.
Contact me if you wish to purchase Anthelios or if you'd like to discuss how it can supplement your skin care program.
I've written before about one of my clients' favorite products, Remergent DNA Repair Formula, and now I'm pleased to see that it's receiving a favorable mention in major media such as Allure, Elle, Self, New Beauty, Prevention, and now the Los Angeles Times. If you haven't already read it, be sure to look at the article from this week's L.A. Times about how technology is helping to control and improve sun-damaged skin.
Remergent skin care products activate self healing, reverse skin cell dysfunction, and maximize results for long-term gain through prevention, repair, and restoration. This is a unique skin care product that targets skin damage that has already occurred, and prevents future damage.
I believe this and the Remergent Microcirculation Eye Therapy are products that can--and should--be added to everyone's skin care program.
Contact me to request information about how to integrate these products into your skin care system and to purchase one or both so you can see the difference for yourself.
The holidays may be an exciting and fun-filled time, but they can also be tough on our skin. Travel, parties (overindulging on sugar, alcohol, and larger-than-usual portions), and stress individually or in combination can contribute to the formation of blemishes and make the skin seem tired and dull. I'm recommending the following treatments and products to my clients as excellent ways to start off 2007 with glowing skin and to keep it that way throughout the year:
++ The SilkPeel treatment has become one of my clients' favorites, and with good reason: It makes the skin look FANTASTIC. The SilkPeel goes beyond microdermabrasion because it simultaneously exfoliates the skin and provides a dermal infusion of solutions that address the skin's condition at the time of the treatment. The results are immediate, and after a treatment my clients can return to their daily activities without the redness and irritation of traditional particulate dermabrasion. For clients with overactive skin and clogged pores, the SilkPeel treatment is a dream. It's vacuuming action removes excess oil and sebum and unclogs blackheads for a deep cleansing. Used in combination with the Z-Peel it produces incredible, glowing results. For many of my clients it's become a must-have part of their facial program. If you haven't already had a SilkPeel experience, I encourage you to call for an appointment.
++ My healing gel is a great way to combat any blemishes that might result from travel, stress, or excess. And to keep the skin exfoliated and fresh in between facials, my miracle scrub can't be beat. It gently but thoroughly removes dead cells, helps unclog pores, and leaves the skin ready for makeup or treatment products.
++ Both the PlumpLips line of lip plumpers/glosses and the Anti-Wrinkle Cream from Freeze 24-7 have been huge hits at my studio. Both products provide immediate results and are great for a little boost whether you're about to face the day or face a camera. The PlumpLips glosses come in a range of colors and give a superb look without the burning of some lip plumping products or the stickiness of many glosses.
For those of my clients looking for last-minute stocking stuffers or gifts, J'ai of Beverly Hills Gift Certificates are available in the amount of your choice. It's the perfect gift for a friend or family member you wish to pamper. I'm also carrying the oh-so-soft Kashwere products, including their ladies' sport jacket. It's like a warm, soft hug, is cut to flatter the figure, and it's washable! Available in pink, white, and black. Nomine candles and Lollia products are also great to give to friends, as hostess gifts, or to yourself.
Please let me know if you have questions or would like to arrange for product to be sent to you.
As I mentioned in my recent post, Remergent DNA Repair Formula is starting to grab the attention of editors and is being featured on several "best of" lists, including the October 2006 issue of Allure. (Click on the image to read the full magazine excerpt.)
For those of us who spent too much time in the sun in our earlier years, or for those who have other damage, Remergent DNA may be a key to reversing that damage and healing the skin, minimizing existing wrinkles and reducing the risk of new wrinkles.
I'm very enthusiastic about several products in the Remergent line, and look forward to talking with you about which of them are suitable for your skin.
The product that many of my clients refer to as their "miracle scrub" is available once again. It's a must-have product that my clients reorder again and again because it does so much, so simply.
When used in the morning, the creamy texture of the scrub gently exfoliates skin, evening its appearance and preparing the skin for treatment, moisturizing, and makeup. As part of a nighttime cleansing program, it helps remove the buildup of oil and debris and allows the skin to renew itself overnight.
As the label states, my scrub is a pigment correction x-cellerator and wrinkle fighter, but for my clients it's simply THE scrub!
I'm pleased to introduce four new products that will be excellent additions to the skin care regimens of many of my clients. I look forward to introducing you to the products that will be appropriate for your skin's needs.
MD Skincare is now offering several new products, and there are two stand-outs that I am delighted to make available to my clients.
The All-in-One Cleansing Foam removes excess oil without drying, removes environmental impurities, and helps dissolve bacteria, waxy plugs, and blackheads. As if that's not enough, it also removes eye makeup without irritation and is gentle enough for dry skin. For many of my clients this will be a must-have product.
Another great product is the All-Over Blemish Solution. Instead of focusing on prevention, this product treats existing breakouts and blackheads, and helps control future breakouts. At the same time it calms irritated skin. This will be a favorite product for some of my younger clients, and for older clients who are experiencing occasional breakouts and adult-onset acne. Even if your skin is generally clear, this may be a great product to keep on hand for those times when stress or other factors shows its effects on your skin.
Many new product lines are introduced every year, but I choose new products for my clients carefully and with the goal of finding the most effective solutions to their skin care needs. I've found such a solution, and so I'm debuting a new line at the studio: Remergent. The Remergent line of products focuses on repairing skin damage and reducing the signs of collagen degradation. I believe two products in particular will be very beneficial, and I'm making them available now to my clients.
DNA Repair Formula is a powerful solution that can be used on the face and on the body--wherever damage exists. It is suitable for all skin types, and it speeds recovery from past damage on even sensitive skin. In addition to these properties, it helps skin resist future damage. So much skin damage has already taken place during our younger years, and the DNA Repair Formula is being welcomed by my clients who want to make up for some of those carefree (and SPF-free) years. 
The final product I am introducing is Remergent's Microcirculation Therapy. This is a skin stimulating cream that reduces the signs of under-eye circles, speeds collagen repair, and calms irritated and delicate skin. Like the DNA Repair Formula, it is suitable for all skin types, and will improve the resiliency of delicate under-eye tissues that can be both sensitive and easily irritated by environmental conditions, makeup application and removal, and our sleep habits. Like many of Remergent's products, the Microcirculation Therapy is enriched with vitamins C and E, and is a great product for combating the stresses caused by travel.
Please contact me at the studio if you would like more information about any of these products, including how to best integrate them into your current skin care plan.
Three new products in the Kinerase Pro+Therapy line have impressed me, and I'm pleased to recommend them to clients whose skin requires extra exfoliation, moisturizing, or repair. Like other products by Kinerase, these Pro+Therapy products are exceptionally balanced, and they provide effective treatments while protecting and nourishing the skin.
Kinerase Pro+Therapy Skin Smoothing Cleanser is a light, foaming cleanser that cleans and exfoliates without irritating or drying your skin. This should be used in six-week cycles only. An AHA-blend of malic, lactic, and citric acids is responsible for the exfoliating action. White tea extract provides the skin with antioxidant benefits, and green tea extract soothes the skin.
Kinerase Pro+Therapy Ultra Rich Night Repair delivers maximum hydration and helps to repair and build your skin. Its combination of kinetin and zeatin reduces visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines, and other ingredients improve and regulate moisture and protect the skin from oxidation.
Kinerase Pro+Therapy Advanced Repair Serum is a concentrated repair treatment that helps to rejuvenate the skin, reduce deep wrinkles, improve pigmentation, and even out skin tone.
If you have questions about any products in the Kinerase or Kinerase Pro+Therapy lines and would like to discuss how they can benefit you, please contact me for an appointment. Although all three products may not be appropriate for your skin, a seasonal reassessment is always helpful to fine tune your skin care program and to ensure that the products you use address your skin's particular needs, which change from season to season and over time.
I am continually investigating new product lines, critiquing the product lines that I use in the studio, and soliciting feedback from my clients regarding their needs and preferences, their likes and dislikes. The product lines that I currently use and offer for sale in my studio are: