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This
information is not meant to replace your physician and is simply
provided as a free educational service to our visitors. If you feel
that you have a skin problem, please consult with your physician.
The aging process begins when we enter the world and the effects of
aging are evident in our bodies through out our lives. Beginning in our
20's, the signs of aging start to become noticeable. Genetically
programmed chronologic aging causes changes in collagen and elastin,
the connective tissues that supply firmness and elasticity to the skin.
The genetic program of individuals is different, so the loss of skin
firmness and elasticity occurs at different rates and different times
in one individual as compared to another. As skin becomes less elastic,
it also becomes drier and underlying fat padding begins to disappear.
With the loss of underlying support by fat padding and connective
tissues, the skin begins to sag; it appears less supple and wrinkles
form.
Although wrinkles, lines and age spots are formed by the natural
effects of getting older, one way to prevent them from appearing early
on in life is to avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreens with SPFs 15
or higher. And, although most of us have some form of sun-damaged skin,
there are ways to regain healthy, smooth skin. After many years of
research, scientists, dermatologists and plastic surgeons have
discovered that a variety of natural ingredients and vitamin extracts
significantly help slow down and even reverse the signs of aging skin.
These ingredients are found in many of our anti-aging skin care
products.
Vitamin A (Retinol) - Topical Vitamin A has been
suggested to help build collagen fibers within the skin in addition to
its more superficial exfoliating property. This is the basis for its
use in minimizing the appearance of fine wrinkle lines.
Vitamin C - Vitamin C or ascorbic acid acts as an
antioxidant and is considered vital in wound healing because it aids in
stabilizing collagen. When applied topically, vitamin C can reduce fine
lines and wrinkles and may lessen the severity of sunburns.
Vitamin E - Vitamin E is another antioxidant that
shows to have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. When applied
topically, vitamin E has been shown to improve moisturization, softness
and smoothness and also provides modest photo protection.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) - AHAs are designed to
smooth fine lines and surface wrinkles, to improve skin texture and
tone, to unblock and cleanse pores, to improve oily skin or acne, and
to improve skin condition in general.
Glycolic Acid - Glycolic acid is the most active and
beneficial of the Alpha-Hydroxy-Acids (AHAs) in skin care. Once inside
the cells, the acid triggers new formations of collagen to plump cells
and the ground substances in the skin to reduce wrinkles on the skin's
surface. Glycolic acid is proven to be very effective in the treatment
of acne as well as in cosmetic uses.
Copper Peptides - Copper Peptides are the latest
scientific breakthrough in skin rejuvenation. Copper has been found to
naturally firm the skin, enhance elasticity, and reduce fine lines and
wrinkles.
Green Tea Extract - Green tea's anti-inflammatory and
anti-growth qualities are found in many skin care products designed to
reduce the appearance of puffiness, wrinkles, fine lines and large
pores.
Many customers ask which anti-aging product is best and we always
respond by saying that there is no "best" product. Since every
individual's skin is different, the results of using anti-aging
products will be different as well. We recommend that you consult with
a skin care professional prior to use of any new skin care product to
determine your skin type, skin condition and possible sensitivities to
active ingredients. Your skin care professional may recommend specific
products, or you can try a few on your own based on your consultation.
If you are not happy with the first product you try, try another one.
It's important that you choose a product and skin care regimen that
makes you feel 100% comfortable with the look and feel of your skin.
Customers also inquire about when they should expect to see results
from using anti-aging products. Again, we respond by saying that
results will be different for each individual, generally due to the
condition of one's skin prior to use. However, across the board, we say
not to expect a miracle, as there is no anti-aging product on the
market that provides overnight results. Whether you are trying to
reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness
or age spots, the process is gradual and takes anywhere from 4 to 8
weeks depending on the severity of your problem areas. After allowing
the products time to take effect as well as following product
directions, you can be sure to notice significant improvement in the
appearance of your skin.
To see the quickest results, you will have to undergo professional
cosmetics procedures. While procedures such as laser treatments,
injections and dermabrasion produce the fastest, most noticeable
improvements, they are all are somewhat painful or uncomfortable and
very costly. In addition, pre and post treatment plans are required to
achieve maximum results, which consist of using skin care products,
that are also proven to be safe, effective, painless and less expensive
alternatives to professional cosmetic procedures.
Please note that with the use of any new skin care product, it is
highly possible that your skin will react to the ingredients. You may
experience irritation, redness, dryness or a mild breakout, which
should only last for the first 3-5 days of use. If you experience any
of these reactions for a longer period of time, please discontinue use
and consult a skin care professional. It is also recommended that prior
to using any new skin care product to consult with a skin care
professional.
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