Our skin naturally sheds billions of cells every day. This process can slow down for a number of reasons including aging, genetics, photo damage (sun damage), or other skin disorders. On average, cellular renewal of the skin occurs every 28 days. This is the process in which older cells on the skin’s surface die and slough away, while new skin cells work their way to the surface to emerge as new vibrant skin. When cellular renewal slows down we begin to see skin that is visibly dull, with uneven, rough texture. We may even find that fine lines and wrinkles are accentuated.

Exfoliation is the removal of those dead skin cells that collect on the outer surface of the skin, thus speeding up the renewal process. There are many benefits to regular exfoliation:

• Softens and smooths skin texture
• Brightens the complexion
• Stimulates collagen
• Reduces fine lines and photo damage
• Detoxifies the skin
• Prevents breakouts by keeping pores clear
• Improves product penetration and treatment results
• Allows for even application of makeup or self-tanner

There are two types of exfoliants:

Physical exfoliants remove dead skin cells using friction. Examples include scrubs containing granules or micro-beads, loofahs, and buffing cloths. Professional microdermabrasion treatments are also considered a form of physical exfoliation.

Chemical exfoliants are mild acids that dissolve the “glue” that binds dead skin cells to the other skin cells, and are commonly found in varying strengths in skin care products, and professional chemical peels. Examples of chemical exfoliants include:

• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) – these exfoliate the outer surface of the skin and help improve the skin’s moisture content. Common AHAs include glycolic acid and lactic acid.

• Beta-Hydroxy acids (BHAs) – these exfoliate the outer surface of the skin, and have the added ability to penetrate and exfoliate pores. They also have anti-inflammatory properties. A common BHA is salicylic acid.

• Fruit enzymes – contained in fruits such as pineapple and papaya, they digest dead skin cells and exfoliate gently without irritation.

Mild exfoliation can be achieved at home with the appropriate products, and many of us can achieve great results by combining several exfoliating techniques.

For those seeking more intense exfoliation, or to improve specific skin concerns, professional exfoliating treatments can be very beneficial. Examples of these treatments include microdermabrasion and chemical peels. Newer treatments such as Silk Peel™, and Hydrafacial™ actually combine both physical and chemical exfoliation, and can dramatically improve the overall look and health of the skin.

Of course there can be too much of a good thing! It is very important not to over-exfoliate as this may strip the skin of essential oils, and cause excessive irritation.

Mild exfoliation at home should be done 1-2 times per week, while professional treatments should be done 1-2 times per month at the most. Since exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to sun damage, it is essential to protect it daily with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater.

Please contact us at Physician Skincare Centre (North Vancouver) or Pender Medi Spa (Vancouver) to book a complimentary consultation to learn how you may incorporate regular exfoliation into your current skin care routine. Your youthful, radiant skin will be back before you know it!

The post Benefits of Exfoliation appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

While a great practice for the mind, body, and spirit, yoga also benefits overall skin health in a number of ways. It is well-known that chronic stress can lead to premature wrinkles and aging skin. As a natural stress reliever, the practice of yoga has been linked to lowering levels of stress hormones within the body. This allows the skin to continue producing collagen – the substance responsible for plump, glowing skin – at optimal capacity.

The asanas (yoga postures) utilize personal strength, mind and breathing to nourish the internal organs along with the skin, thus improving its complexion. The asanas most beneficial to the skin are inverted postures such as the plough, headstand, or halasana. These postures increase circulation to the head, bring nutrients and oxygen to the skin, and remove toxins. The result is rejuvenated skin that maintains a fresh, vibrant appearance.

The shoulder stand is considered one of the ultimate health and beauty poses. It stimulates the thyroid gland, and brings the entire endocrine system into balance. It also helps skin cells regenerate themselves by increasing circulation to the facial region.

How to do a shoulder stand:

Lie on your back and swing your legs up into the air, creating a straight line between your shoulders and heels. Support your lower back with your hands, allowing your shoulders and elbows to support the weight. This pose may also be modified by laying flat on your back with your legs perpendicular against a wall. In the full pose, you may also support your shoulders on a folded blanket, with your head resting on the floor.

Yoga can be also be beneficial for ailments such as pain associated with kyphosis – a hunched over back. It is commonly believed that we shrink as we age, but we do not have to! A regular yoga routine will help keep us tall and aligned, while slowing the muscle loss that naturally occurs as we age.

Yoga may be enjoyed by all ages and all body types. Every single posture can be modified to benefit your body’s own personal needs, without pushing yourself or over doing it. A steady yoga practice will create a more peaceful mind, a healthier body, and a younger appearance. And who doesn’t want to look and, most importantly, feel younger?

“Our face and complexion are the physical manifestation of all that we think and do—an exacting mirror of the soul,” notes Pratima Raichur, in her book Absolute Beauty: Radiant Skin and Inner Harmony Through the Ancient Secrets of Ayurveda through the Ancient Secrets of Ayurveda. “If you want to change your appearance, you must first change the thoughts, emotions, and habits where stress and aging originate.”

See you on your mat. Namaste.

The post Yoga and Your Skin appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

Long-considered the gold standard in anti-aging skincare, proper use of a retinoid product will result in skin that is smoother, brighter, tighter, and blemish-free.

What are Retinoids?

Retinoids are a group of active ingredients derived from vitamin A, which are applied topically.  Often referred to as “Retin A”, or “retinol” there are many types, brands, concentrations, and formulations of retinoids – all of which influence their strength and effectiveness.

Retinoids were first approved as a treatment for acne.  However, when researchers discovered their effect on aging skin, retinoids were eventually approved and marketed as a wrinkle treatment.

How do Retinoids Work?

Vitamin A is a cell-communicating ingredient, meaning it encourages skin cells to look and act like normal, younger skin cells.  When applied topically, retinoids increase cell turnover leading to improvement in discoloration and skin texture. They also stimulate the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid which helps to reduce wrinkles and increase hydration.

Contrary to popular belief, retinoids do not thin the skin.  In fact they actually thicken both the epidermis and dermis, resulting in younger-looking skin.

Types of Retinoids

There are many types and strengths of retinoids, ranging from prescription-strength to over-the-counter (OTC). The most common retinoids utilized in skincare include:

1) Retinoic acid

• Also known as tretinoin
• Very active form
• Available by prescription only, in concentrations ranging from 0.025% to 0.1%
• May cause skin irritation such as dryness, redness, and peeling
• Brands include Retin-A, and Renova

2)  Retinol

• Weaker than retinoic acid, and therefore less irritating
• Available in concentrations ranging from 0.075% to 1%
• Widely available in OTC products.  Many brands available, with stronger concentrations typically seen in physician-grade skincare lines
• Is converted to retinoic acid when applied to the skin

Other types of retinoids seen in OTC skincare include retinaldehyde and retinyl palmitate.  When applied to the skin, these too are eventually converted to retinoic acid.

How to Use Retinoids

When using a retinoid for the first time, many people choose a retinol product due to the fact that they are widely available and well-tolerated.  These products work slower than prescription-strength retinoids, because the body needs to convert the retinol into retinoic acid.  The advantage is that they offer similar results with minimal irritation to the skin.

Retinoids are degraded by sunlight, therefore your product should be in an opaque tube or pump.  Likewise, retinoids should be applied only at night, onto clean dry skin.  Only a pea-sized amount is required to treat the whole face.  Whether you are using tretinoin or retinol, it is often a good idea to start slow – for example, every third night – and gradually increase use to every night.  This minimizes irritation and allows the skin to acclimate to the retinoid.  A basic moisturizer may be applied over top of your retinoid product to help prevent skin dryness.

Daily sunscreen is essential.  Even the most effective clinically-proven anti-aging ingredients will not offer results if you are not diligent about sun protection.  After all, sun damage created most of what you are trying to improve.

As with most skincare products, patience is required in order to see maximum results.  Retinoids generally provide noticeable results within three to six months, and their use should be continued in order to retain the anti-aging and anti-acne benefits.  When used consistently, retinoids will keep your skin clear, even out skin tone, smooth wrinkles, repair sun damage, and prevent premature aging.

Our skin experts can help you build an effective skincare routine that includes a suitable retinoid product for your skin type.  Please contact us to get started!

The post Revisiting Retinoids – Skincare’s #1 Ingredient appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

Because scarring is so variable, it is one of the more challenging conditions to treat.  The appearance of a scar is determined by multiple factors including:  the type and time of injury, the location of the wound, the size and depth of the wound, age, sex, ethnicity, and genetics.   These factors also determine which type of treatment, if any, will offer improvement in the scar.  There isn’t one treatment that will work for everyone, therefore your skin care professional will consider all factors that have contributed to the scar in order to make the best treatment recommendation.

Types of Non-Surgical Scar Treatments

1) Topical ointments (OTC or prescription)

These work best on new scars that have been caused by cuts, wounds, or surgery.  Treating the initial wounds properly with antibiotic ointment can minimize the degree of scarring.  Once the wound is healed, a steroid cream or silicone gel sheeting can be quite effective.  Specialty ointments such as Skin Medica Scar Recovery Gel ($95), and Dermastrat ($59) can also help smooth and minimize these types of scars.

2)  Laser Genesis

Laser Genesis is a gentle laser that minimizes redness, stimulates collagen production, and smoothes skin texture.  When combined with Microdermabrasion, Laser Genesis can be very effective on red scars, shallow acne scars, and hypertrophic scars (raised, widened scars that are red or pink and remain within the boundary of the injury).  Scars that respond to this treatment will be lighter in colour, flatter and smoother.  Laser Genesis can be performed on the face and body, is safe for all skin types, and there is no recovery time.  Best results occur after a series of up to 10 biweekly treatments.

3)  Steroid Injections

Steroid injections can be quite effective on hypertrophic scars and keloid scars.  Keloids are scars that have healed abnormally and continue to grow outside the boundary of the injury.  They are typically raised, distorted, discoloured, and may be accompanied by pain or itching.  Thick keloids often flatten out after steroid injections into the scar tissue.  Depending on the scar, Laser Genesis may offer further improvement once the keloid has flattened.

4) Fractionated Laser Treatments

Fractionated laser treatments such as Pearl Fractional can offer remarkable improvement in facial scars such as deep or pitted acne scars, and chicken pox scars.  These lasers are effective because they work deeply to stimulate collagen remodeling, and smooth the skin’s texture.  This is a one-time treatment that requires the patient to follow pre- and post-procedure instructions.   Recovery time after a Pearl Fractional treatment is approximately 7 to 10 days, and the results are dramatic.

5)  Selphyl®

Selphyl® is an injectable treatment that utilizes PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to effectively improve facial scars and shallow acne scars.  This treatment involves injecting the patient’s own plasma (obtained via blood sample) into the areas requiring correction.  Plasma contains a high concentration of growth factors which stimulate collagen, thicken the skin, and improve overall skin texture.  Results occur gradually and are long-lasting.  For maximum results, Selphyl® may also be combined with appropriate laser treatment.

6)  Dermal Filler

Dermal fillers are injectable gels that can be used to fill in deep, depressed scars, making them less noticeable.  Results are instant and may last up to one year.

Due to the variable nature of scars, it is highly recommended that patients schedule a consultation with their skin care professional to have the scar assessed.  This is the only way to determine whether or not the scar is treatable, and what type of treatment may offer the best chance of improvement.  Even though scars are permanent, significant improvement in their appearance can be possible, as long as expectations are realistic.

The post Treatment for Scars appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

Once you have chosen your skin care products, this simple routine will help you get the most out of them:

Step 1: Cleanser

An obvious first! Cleanser should be used morning and night to whisk away make-up, oil, dirt, and everyday pollutants from the skin. A dime-sized amount mixed with lukewarm water will suffice. You will now have a clean canvas which will allow your remaining skin products to work more effectively.

Step 2: Toner

This step is optional, however many people like to use a toner to refresh the skin after cleansing. A toner will also remove excess minerals and residue left behind, and prep the skin for better penetration of products. Toners may be used morning and night. Avoid using toners or astringents that contain alcohol, as they may irritate or dry out the skin. Some toners contain alpha-hydroxy acids which offer light exfoliation of the skin.

Step 3: Serum

Serums are highly-concentrated specialized products that are designed to target and improve particular skin conditions such as: wrinkles, sun damage, collagen loss, clogged pores, and redness. These products should be applied after cleansing/toning, and may be used morning and/or night. Serums tend to have a lightweight consistency which allows them to penetrate and absorb into the skin quickly. Examples of serums include: antioxidants/vitamin C, peptides, retinol, AHA/BHA, hyaluronic acid, and growth factors. Physician-grade serums often contain prescription-strength ingredients that offer faster, more noticeable results. A well-formulated serum is the one product no skin care routine should be without!

Step 5: Eye Cream

If the eye area is of particular concern, an eye cream may be applied after your serum. Eye creams are usually formulated to target one or more of the following: wrinkles, puffiness, dark circles, or dry skin around the eye. Only a tiny amount of eye cream is needed (the size of a grain of rice). Since the skin around the eye is delicate, eye cream should be lightly applied with your fourth finger around the orbital bone only.

Step 4: Moisturizer

Tried, tested, and true, everyone loves a great moisturizer. Our options our endless, but ultimately the purpose of any moisturizer is to hydrate the skin. Acting as a barrier, a moisturizer will lock in your serums and combat skin dryness. Moisturizers may be applied both morning or night, or less often if skin is very oily. If you suffer from oily or acne-prone skin, make sure you choose a moisturizer that is lightweight and non-comedogenic.

Step 6: Sunscreen

Applied in the morning only, this will be the final step in your skin care routine. It is also one of the most important steps, and should never be overlooked – even on cloudy or rainy days. Choose a sunscreen that is labelled “broad-spectrum” so that you are protected from both UVA and UVB rays. The best sunscreens are those that contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, with an SPF 30 or higher. Please see our blog titled “Sunscreen 101” for more information on sunscreen.

Makeup may be applied after sunscreen – you are now ready to face the day!

Skin Care Extras

Exfoliants:

These products are designed to gently remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. They will help keep pores clear, smooth wrinkles, and speed up cell turnover to keep your skin glowing. Exfoliants may be physical (scrubs), or chemical (AHAs, BHAs). Depending on your exfoliant, these may be used daily, or a several times a week. It is important not to over-exfoliate the skin, as this may cause irritation and increased oil production.

Masks:

Masks are specialized treatment products that may be used up to twice weekly. They are typically applied to skin for 15-20 minutes before being rinsed away. There are many types of masks available depending on what your skin needs are such as: extra hydration, exfoliation, or reducing inflammation.

At Pender Medi Spa and Physician Skincare Centre, we are committed to skin success. We offer complimentary skin consultations with our team of experts, who can help you build an effective skin care routine based on your specific needs. Please contact us to book your appointment.

The post Step by Step Skin Care: Get the Most Out Of Your Products! appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

• Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in both Canada and the U.S.  There are more new cases of skin cancer diagnosed each year than the number of breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers COMBINED!
• In the U.S. more than 3.5 million skin cancers in over two million people are diagnosed annually.
• One person dies from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, every 57 minutes.
• Even on a cloudy, rainy day the sun’s rays are present…and damaging your skin.
• In 2009 the World Health Organization designated tanning beds “carcinogenic to humans” – the strongest classification for cancer causing substances.  Other carcinogens in the same category include tobacco, arsenic and asbestos.
• People who first use a tanning bed before age 35 increase their risk of developing melanoma by 75%.
• Tanned skin is damaged skin.  The darker the tan, the more extensive the damage.
• More than 90% of the visible changes attributed to skin aging are caused by the sun.  Most of this comes from day-to-day accumulation of repeated unprotected sun exposure.
• Contrary to popular belief, 80 percent of a person’s lifetime sun exposure is not acquired before age 18.  In fact, only about 23 percent of lifetime exposure occurs by age 18.

UVA, UVB, and SPF Explained

The sun’s ultra-violet (UV) radiation is comprised of three different wavelengths:

UVA (“aging”)

• the most prevalent and most damaging type of UV radiation
• penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin (dermis)
• causes skin aging (wrinkles, loss of elasticity, pigmentation changes)
• is the primary cause of skin cancer
• is present with equal intensity during all daylight hours every day of the year, and can penetrate clouds and glass.

UVB (“burning”)

• penetrates superficially into the epidermis
• causes sunburn
• strength varies depending on season, time of day, and altitude.  Is generally stronger between 10am-4pm.

UVC

• very dangerous, but absorbed by the ozone layer before reaching earth.

SPF refers to “Sun Protection Factor”, and indicates how long you can stay in the sun before getting burned by UVB radiation.  For example, someone using a sunscreen with an SPF15 will take 15 times longer to burn than without the sunscreen.  If that person typically burns in 10 minutes without sunscreen, it will take them 150 minutes (15 x 10 minutes) to burn while wearing it.

You should be aware that sunscreen with an SPF30 is not twice as protective as a sunscreen with an SPF15.  Rather, when properly used, an SPF15 protects the skin from 93% of UVB radiation, while an SPF30 protects against 97% of UVB radiation.

Since SPF addresses only the UVB wavelength, it is important to note that no official rating system exists for the highly-damaging UVA rays.  Even a very high SPF rating may not protect against UVA rays.  Therefore it is critically important that the sunscreen you choose is labelled “broad spectrum”, and preferably includes one or both of the following active ingredients:

Zinc Oxide
Titanium Dioxide

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are minerals which protect against both UVA and UVB radiation, with zinc oxide being slightly more effective.  They are not absorbed into the skin, and do not allow light to penetrate the skin – rather they reflect light off of the skin.  Since they are not chemicals, they are non-irritating and are suitable for even the most sensitive skin.  “Mineral sunscreens” are also referred to as “physical sunscreens”.

In the past, mineral sunscreens were very greasy and created a white cast on the skin.  Nowadays, mineral sunscreens are lighter, cosmetically elegant, and blend well into the skin.

Patients often ask us what the best anti-aging product is for their skin.  The answer is simple and definitive – sunscreen!!  It is the easiest and best thing you can do for your skin everyday, and it’s never too late to start wearing it.

We have a great selection of mineral sunscreens available at Physician Skincare Centre and Pender Medi Spa.  Here are a few of our favourites:

Viverskin Triple Protection Moisturizer SPF30 – chemical-free formula that combines moisturizer, sunscreen and powerful antioxidants for daily protection and anti-aging.  Applies beautifully alone or under makeup.  Active ingredients:  Zinc Oxide 10%, Titanium Dioxide 8%.

Sherri’s fave:

Obagi Rosaclear SPF30 – chemical-free, and formulated especially for skin that is prone to redness or rosacea.  Lightly-tinted, and contains light-reflecting agents to diffuse blotchiness.  Active ingredients: Zinc Oxide 15.5%, Titanium Dioxide 2%.

Jenny’s fave:

Tizo Ultra SPF35 – formulated for extra-sensitive skin, sun-intolerant skin, and for those seeking maximum sun protection.  Free of chemicals, oil, fragrance, and parabens.  Active ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%.

Meenu’s fave:

Colorescience Sunforgettable SPF50 – a unique powdered formula that is brushed onto the skin.  Great for those who do not like applying traditional sunscreen lotions.  This sheer formula is chemical free, oil-absorbing, anti-inflammatory, and can be worn alone or under/over makeup.  Active ingredients: Zinc Oxide 24.5%, Titanium Dioxide 22.5%.

Malvina’s fave:

EltaMD Clear SPF46 – calms and protects acne-prone skin.  Lightweight and oil-free.  Active ingredients: Niacinamide, Zinc Oxide 9%.

We can help you determine which sunscreen would be best for you.
Complimentary skin consultations are always available!

The post Sunscreen 101 appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

Botox treatment of the masseter muscles is ideal for those patients who have a square-shaped lower face, and who desire a more feminine appearance.   This treatment is very suitable for Asian faces, and is one of the most requested procedures by Asian women in their 20’s – 40’s.

This treatment requires the injection of Botox Cosmetic into the masseter muscles to relax them.  During your visit, your injector will discuss the amount of Botox you may require for optimal results.  Once injected, decreased use of the weakened masseter muscles will eventually shrink the area, producing a thinner lower face and jawline over time. Since it takes time for the masseter muscles to reduce in size, the results will be more obvious after your second or third treatment.   Botox treatments are spaced approximately 4 months apart, and you will need to continue the treatment in order to maintain the desired look.   Depending on your specific needs, the cost of your treatment will likely vary from $300 – $600.

This procedure is performed routinely at both Pender Medi Spa in Vancouver, and Physician Skin Care Centre in North Vancouver.   It is produces beautiful results – the face appears defined, feminine and more contoured.  It is an excellent alternative to surgery, without the risks and recovery time.

If you would like more information, you may book a complimentary consultation at either location with one of our highly-trained and knowledgeable physicians.

The post Creating Beautiful Contours: The Use of Botox Cosmetic to Define the Lower Face appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

Mertz began distributing Xeomin a couple of years ago, but did not offer significant benefits over Botox.

Dysport will be distributed by Valeant/Medicis in Canada starting in May of 2013. Dysport has been available in Europe for many years and in the United States for two years. The primary difference is that the onset of action is generally within 48 to 72 hours; whereas Botox may take one week. There are some reports that Dysport may actually last longer.

One unit of Botox is approximately equivalent to 2.5 to 3 units of Dysport. Despite requiring more units of Dysport than Botox; the cost will be less.

Always discuss with your Cosmetic Physician regarding which product might be best for you.

Vancouver’s Pender Medi Spa offers complimentary consultations by our knowledgeable staff:

The post Dysport Arrives in Canada appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin condition that first appears as redness or blushing on the face – usually on the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead. Over time, the redness becomes more persistent, and visible blood vessels may appear in these areas. As the condition progresses, red bumps or pimples may also develop on the skin. Because of this, rosacea is often misdiagnosed as acne.

In severe cases, rhinophyma may occur in which the nose becomes swollen or bumpy due to thickened tissue. Another form of rosacea, ocular rosacea, causes the eyes to become red, watery or irritated.

How Common is Rosacea?

Rosacea affects approximately 1.6 million Canadians, in particular those who are fair-skinned and who blush easily. These individuals are often of northern European descent (i.e. English, Irish, Scottish). Rosacea typically appears after age thirty, and tends to affect more women than men.

What Causes Rosacea?

The cause of rosacea is still a mystery, however scientists believe it may be attributed to one or more of the following:

• Blood vessel or connective tissue disorder
• Microscopic skin mites, fungus, or bacteria
• Genetic predisposition
• Abnormal immune or inflammatory response
• Sun damage of the connective tissue under the skin

Rosacea sufferers often find that certain triggers will cause their condition to flare-up, where there is an intense outbreak of redness, bumps, or pimples. Triggers may include:

• Weather – sun, cold, heat, humidity
• Food/Drink – hot beverages, alcohol, spicy foods, chocolate, dairy products, spinach
• Intense exercise
• Stress
• Medical conditions – fever, colds, cough, menopause/hot flashes
• Medications

Is There a Cure for Rosacea?

Unfortunately there is no known cure for rosacea. However, there are treatments available that can significantly reduce rosacea symptoms and keep the condition under control. These include:

• Oral antibiotics
• Topical medications (antibiotics, steroids)
• Laser treatments to reduce redness (Intense Pulsed Light, vein removal)
• Use of gentle skincare products to reduce inflammation
• Daily use of sunblock

Rosacea sufferers can also manage their symptoms by identifying and controlling the triggers that cause their flare-ups.

If you suffer from rosacea, please schedule a complimentary consultation with our team of experts to discuss the treatment options available at our clinics.

The post Understanding Rosacea appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.

So when people ask me “What do you use on your skin?” I don’t even know where to begin to tell them what I use on my skin will most likely not be good for your skin. Unfortunately, there isn’t one product that can reverse your aging skin and any specific product that will make you look 10 years younger. It takes time for your skin to age so it will take some effort to get it looking healthy. Most of us don’t want to look 18 again; well maybe some do, but that is just not going to happen, but you CAN look good for your age. There are realistic goals that you can expect and you can get your skin not only looking “healthy” but physically healthy. You can cover up your skin with makeup and use Botox and fillers to diminish fine lines and add volume but your skin will not glow if you don’t take the effort to make it healthy.

Think of your skin as your body. If you want to lose weight or get into shape you need to eat right, work out, drink lots of water and take the right vitamins. The same is for your skin, you need to feed it right (skin care), work out (treatments) and again drinks lots of water and take your vitamins.

Let’s start with a beginners guide to getting your skin healthy.

Your skin needs the following:

Step 1: Cleanse

Start off with a cleanser that is suited for your skin type to take off make up, dirt and excess oils.

Oily/Acneic: PCA Facial Wash Oily/Problem ($39.00) cleanses away excess oil and make up, controls blemishes and reduces excess sebum production without stripping your skin and leaves you feeling squeaky clean.

Sensitive: Vivier Hexam Facial Wash ($37.50) removes skin impurities including acne and bacteria and helps prevent itchiness and relives minor skin irritations on sensitive skin.

Combination:  Jan Marini Bioglycolic Cleanser ($30.80) is a gentle cleanser with glycolic acid which will rinse your skin completely without the need for a toner leaving your skin soft and hydrated.

Normal Skin: Neova Herbal Wash ($28.00) has a peppermint scent that removes impurities and make up leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed.

Dry Skin: PCA Creamy Cleanser ($45.00) formulation won’t leave your skin feeling tight after your wash it. It is also a good eye makeup remover when used on its own with cotton pad.

Aging Skin: Jan Marini C-Esta Cleanser ($30.70) it great at removing make up and will give you that squeaky clean feeling and also help brighten your skin with the added vitamin C.

Step 2: Correct 

Your skin needs at least one product with an active ingredient that will help correct problems on your skin.

Oily/Acneic: Jan Marini Bioglycolic Face Lotion ($61.50) utilizes a combination of glycolic acid, salicylic acid and alezaic acid to resurface and retexturize your skin and minimize enlarged follicles.

Sensitive: Vivier A/K Caps ($71.00) formulated for reactive skin prone to redness. These capsules are a unique combination of Vitamins A (retinol), K, C and E with soothing Green Tea to help combat redness and blotchiness while helping even skin tone and texture.

Combination:  PCA A&C Synergy Serum ($138.50) has 5% vitamin C and 2% vitamin A to brighten skin and minimize discoloration, improve skin tone and inhibit bacteria proliferation which causes sebum production. This is my personal favorite serum and almost every skin type can benefit from it.

Normal Skin: PCA C-Quench Serum ($113.00) is a 15% vitamin C and antioxidant serum, it will brighten skin and minimize discoloration, even your skin tone and texture.

Dry Skin: Vivier Kine C Serum ($131.00) along with the benefits of vitamin C it has hyaluronic acid which will bind water to the skin to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

Aging Skin: Skin Medica Essential Serum ($260.00) is a dual chamber bottle and the only product with patented human growth hormones in one chamber and packed full of antioxidants, vitamin C and peptides in the other chamber. Essential Serum will minimize discoloration of skin, even skin tone, soften skin, tighten, add moisture and improve collagen and elastin production. It has a high price point considering everyday use, twice a day, will last you 45 days, but it is the ultimate in anti-aging.

Step 3: Protect

Using an SPF helps prevent premature skin aging. The sun’s harmful rays will break down your skin’s collagen and elastin which in turn will cause fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots and will damage your skin making it look dull, aged and dehydrated. All skin types need to wear an SPF every day, even the UV in your office lights carry harmful rays.

Oily/Acneic: Elta Clear 46 ($32.00) very lightweight sun protection has niacinamide to control acne.

Sensitive: Obagi Rosa Clear ($64.20) a non-comedogenic, mauve-tinted sunscreen lotion for sensitive and rosacea skin.

Combination:  Tizo2 Light Skin Formulation SPF 40 ($43.90) a mineral sunscreen that leaves skin slightly matte.

Normal Skin: Elta UV Defense 45 ($36.00) oil-free, micronized zinc blends well into the skin to leave your skin feeling moisturized but not greasy.

Dry Skin: Elta UV Daily 40 ($40.00) sun protection with hyaluronic acid for added hydration.

Aging Skin: Jan Marini Antioxidant SPF 30 ($52.00) has the added benefit of antioxidants for anti-aging benefits and sun protection.

Elta, Tizo, Jan Marini, Vivier & Obagi Products are carried at Physician Skincare Centre and Pender Medi Spa. PCA, Neova & Skin Medica can be found online or other physician-directed spas.

The post Ask Our Staff: Skin Care Products appeared first on Pender Medi Spa.