Skin Care Update
Let's face it. If right from the start we avoided the sun, ate right, drank plenty of water, exercised regularly and got 8 hours of sleep every night, and never smoked, our skin would look a lot healthier than it does today. Lucky for you, it's never too late to get smart about skin care and begin to undo some of the damage that's already been done.
With all the new skin care products available, it's easy to get confused. It's also easy to get taken in by all the marketing hype that the cosmetic companies talk about. So, what are we to do? For starters, it is important to get expert advice about which skin care products are right for your individual skin care needs. Dr. Clavin is a medical doctor who is proud of Clavin Labs and the opportunity to provide effective skin care products to patients
Too much fun in the sun?
Buckle down for colder weather, but fall's climate can be unpredictable. It's a good idea to be prepared for too much sun, too much cold, too much wind, or all of the above. That means sunscreen. Check out Clavin Labs latest innovations in Sun Protective Care. For those that had a little too much sun and/or harsh climate exposure, we highly recommend two of our products. Clavin Labs Non Drying Gentle Cleansing Lotion (An ultra mild, cleanser for sensitive or dry, damaged skin that leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth. ) and Clavin Labs Fortified Moisturizer (A unique facial moisturizer for very dry, sunburned, or otherwise damaged skin). Remember, Keep your skin safe and happy!
For specific information click on desired heading
Understanding Skincare | Vitamin C | Exfoliants |
Key Points to using Glycolic Products
Frequently Asked Questions about Gycolic Acid | Salicylic Acid
Advice to Keep Your Skin Young and Healthy | Recommended Information Sources
Your Skin... Embracing, Enveloping, and Protecting You
It's the body's largest organ--weighs six to nine pounds and stretches up to twenty square feet. Each square inch of it contains about fifteen feet of blood vessels, one hundred oil glands, and two different kinds of sweat glands. Not only does it help regulate your body's temperature, but protects against light, infection, and environmental elements. It can be dry, oily, normal, scaly, acne-prone, or a combination of the above. As you can see, this organ plays a significant role in your well-being and it's something not to take for granted.
Antioxidants and the skin
Antioxidants quench potential damaging free radicals. The skin has natural (endogenous) antioxidants-such as Vitamin E and C. Recognition of the importance of cutaneous protection against oxidative stress (i.e. Ultraviolet light, smoke and air pollution which can produce free radicals), has led to the development of skin care products formulated with antioxidants. Many of the antioxidants included in skin care products are based on the known endogenous antioxidants in the skin. It is postulated that perhaps topical application of antioxidants, esp. Vitamin C and E might prevent cutaneous damage.
Exposure to ultraviolet rays stimulates melanin production, which is why we tan. It also encourages rogue electrons known as free radicals to destroy the lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids in our epidermis. And deeper down, sunlight damages collagen, the connective tissue that keeps our skin firm, elastic and young looking! Ultraviolet rays can cause our skin to burn and age. UVA and UVB rays penetrate the epidermis and cause the skin to produce melanin. Most sunscreens provide protection from UVB, which tends to vary in intensity according to season, altitude, and time of day. UVA can burn through windows and loose-knit clothing to penetrate the dermis, or second layer of the skin, and effect collagen production. To provide ultimate SPF protection, use sunscreens that protect against UVA and UVB rays.
Creams containing liposomal action of vitamins A, C, E, and Green Tea such as our Glycolix Elite Products in combination with Co-Q10, bring antioxidants to the skin's surface to consume and expel certain free radicals. Vitamin C has also been in the headlines as a wonderful way to reverse sun damage and promote collagen production. You can blame 80 percent of the skin's visible aging on sun damage or exposure to the sun. We recommend Clavin Labs Vitamin C Line (which has been shown to improve skin appearance and prevent skin damage).
What's the best protection for your skin? Use at least SPF 30 made with oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or Parson 1789. We carry two excellent types of Sun Protectors. One is best for sensitive and/or acne prone skins while the other is blended with many types of antixidants as well as Co-Q10.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water soluble vitamin. Humans do not synthesize vitamin C and so are dependent on dietary intake. Dietary sources are citrus fruits, tomatoes, green vegetables and potatoes. Vitamin C deficiency results in scurvy and thus it was named Ascorbic acid to designate its function in preventing scurvy. Natural vitamin C is composed of two forms, L-ascorbic and D-ascorbic acid. However, when both are applied to the skin, only L-ascorbic acid has the ability to be absorbed through the skin.
Actions of Topical Vitamin C
Antioxidant: Topical vitamin C quenches free radicals. This action is helpful in protecting the skin from free radical damage and inflammation produced by environmental stresses such as ultraviolet (UV) light, smoke and pollution.
Photoprotective: Topical Vitamin C does not act as a sunscreen as it has no UVB or UVA absorption but its photoprotective benefit (reducing UVB and UVA damage) is actually due to its antioxidant actions.
Anti-inflammatory: Topical vitamin C reduces inflammation and speeds healing.
Hyperpigmentation: Topical vitamin C may lighten hyperpigmentation.
Exfoliate means to desquamate, peel, remove, shed or slough. Exfoliants are cosmetic products that exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin-the stratum corneum. Cellular renewal is one of the most common marketing phrases to describe this action.
Cellular renewal is ongoing in the epidermis as new basal (lower layers) epidermal cells mature and move to the stratum corneum (top layer). With maturation the cells dry up, become cellular and ultimately exfoliate from the surface. This overall process from basal layer to exfoliation is 28 days. With increasing age, cell renewal rates decrease and this contributes to coarse, sallow skin. Exfoliation of the stratum corneum stimulates the natural renewal of skin cells from the basal layer and so the skin is less coarse and appears refreshed. Most research has also shown that this increased epidermal renewal reflexly stimulates new dermal collagen production and thus may improve fine, photoaged wrinkles.
Sometimes, dry skin is due to increased stratum corneum cell stickiness and so exfoliation may benefit dry skin. Additionally, exfoliation can unblock clogged pores and so may improve acne, mainly comedonal acne and mile papulopustular.
KEY POINTS TO USING GLYCOLIC PRODUCTS
Glycolic products may create transient stinging when first applied to the skin. This is not a cause for concern, however persistent stinging, longer than 30 to 60 seconds implies too strong a products for your skin (the glycolic concentration may be too high).
When can I expect to see results?
Within a few weeks of regularly using Glycolic Acid Products, skin should begin to appear smoother and healthier. Fine lines seem to fade, and complexion and texture appear more even. Allow an average of 2 to 6 weeks for visible results, depending on the condition of the skin prior to using Glycolic Products.
When should Glycolic Acid Products be used?
Most Glycolic Acid products can be used twice daily-once in the morning and once in the evening-unless otherwise directed by your physician, or skin care advisor.
Can I use Glycolic Acid products with my other moisturizers or cleansers?
Yes! Glycolic Acid products can be used with other products your physician or skin care advisor has recommended. We all have our favorite products and they should work quite nicely in conjunction with the Glycolic Acid, such as our Vitamin C Line and Replenix Products. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, make sure all supplemental facial products are non-comedogenic and non-irritating.
Should I avoid sun exposure while Using Glycolic Acid products?
Although clinical testing reveals no increased sensitivity to the sun, you should always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent photo damage. Unprotected sun exposure is the leading cause of premature aging.
What should I expect to feel when I first apply Glycolic Acid Products?
Glycolic Acid products may cause a mild tingling when first applied. This sensation should disappear within 1 to 2 minutes, depending on skin sensitivity. You may want to wait 15 minutes after cleansing prior to applying your leave-on Glycolic Acid based product to reduce stinging.
What should I expect within the first few days of Using the producls?
As the dead-cell layer "sloughs off", skin may appear slightly drier than normal. Once the transition is made and new, smoother-looking skin is exposed, the complexion will appear more youthful and vibrant. Depending on the condition of the skin and the rate of exfoliation, skin may appear more or less dry.
When can 1 expect my acne to start improving?
As Glycolic Acid clears the cleansed pores, acne may initially appear to be slightly more active. However, as pores are cleared, skin should quickly show noticeable improvement. (Usually within 2 to 3 weeks.) For therapeutic results, incorporate, GlySal Pads, which are specially formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. These pads accelerate the removal of dead skin cells that interfere with oil drainage and antiseptic properties of the skin
What happens if use of the Glycolic Acid products is stopped or suspended?
Results achieved from the use of Glycolic Acid products will not immediately disappear. However, if use is suspended for an extended period of time, the dead cell layer will once again buildup, and the original problem will recur.
What should I do If redness, stinging, or irritation occurs from using the Glycolic Acid producls?
Redness, stinging, and irritation is a common occurrence and can be completely normal. Some might be more sensitive than others, so we recommend taking it slow. You can apply your Glycolic Acid products to a damp face, cutting the potency of the product.
This allows your skin to become acclimated to the Glycolic Acid and over time the step is no longer necessary. Introducing one product at a time can be very helpful. Let your skin get used to the product for a week. This also makes it very easy to determine which product you may be sensitive to, if sensitivity develops.
Does Glycolic, due to its exfoliating nature, thin the skin?
One misconception is that AHAs thin the skin. In actual fact, although the stratum corneum is thinner, it is more compact and functions better such that the skin barrier is improved. The remainder of the epidermis is approximately 20% thicker and also the dermis thickens.
Salicylic Acid is sometimes referred to as a beta-hydroxy acid and although it has no structural relationship to Glycolic Acid, the method of action of Salicylic acid, like Glycolic is superficial exfoliation of the skin.
For years, Salicylic acid has been used in sunscreens as a UVB absorber and as treatment for various dermatologic conditions. New exciting research has shown that Salicylic acid may improve photoaging especially fine wrinkling.
The aging benefit of Salicylic acid is similar, if not slightly better than AIphahydroxy acids. Thus, due to these findings, Salicylic acid is now being formulated into cosmetic skin care products. Being lipid soluble enables it to particularly initiate exfoliation within blocked sebaceous glands resulting in improvement of mild acne. AHAs are water soluble and although by their general exfoliative action there is some improvement in acne, salicylic acid is more comedolytic. Thus combining AHAs and salicylic acid results in cosmetic skin care products that can improve mild acne, closed or open (blackheads) comedones.
ADVICE TO KEEP YOUR SKIN YOUNG AND HEALTHY
- Wear a broad-spectrrm sunbiock every day. The primary cause of aging of the skin is daily, incidental exposure to the sun without adequate protection.
- Do not smoke. Smoking can cause the skin to age prematurely, as well as take on an unflattering sallow tone.
- Avoid drinking excessive amount of alcoholic beverages. Like smoking, alcohol dehydrates the skin and can cause the skin to age prematurely.
- Minimize stress. Stress can contribute to premature aging.
- Drink plenty of water
- Get ample sleep. Most of our body's repair and rejuvenation occurs while we sleep.
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Exercise regularly. It increases the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the skin, which will give a healthier glow.
- Wear sunglasses. This will protect the eyes as well as the delicate skin around them. Check the label to make sure they provide UVA and UVB protection.
Helpful Hints for Acne Sufferers
- Drink plenty of water; at least eight glasses a day.
- Make sure your face is cleansed at least twice a day, particularly after perspiring. Use a mild cleanser for "in-between cleansing", such as Clavin Labs Gentle CIeansing Lotion.
- Only use makeup and moisturizers that are non-comedogenic. Clean cosmetic brushes and makeup pads with soapy water at least 2 to 3 times a week.
- Avoid touching your face during the day. Remember, hands are fulI of microscopic debris and bacteria that can transfer to your face and aggravate your acne condition.
- Always remove all makeup before going to bed.
- Make sure pillowcases are changed at least every few days. Wash sheets in hot water using a bleach-type detergent to remove the microscopic dust and debris that accumulates on your sheets.
- Always use a clean face cloth for washing and a clean towel for drying. Wash towels and face cloths in hot water using a bleach type detergent.
- Avoid resting your face on the telephone. Microscopic debris and bacteria can transfer to your face.
- Remember to clean your phone with an alcohol pad.
RECOMMENDED INFORMATION RESOURCES
- Visit Dermik Laboratories. Inc. Producer of a full line of high quality prescription and over-the-counter products used by physicians to treat a wide range of skin problems, including acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacca.
- Visit Galderma Laboratories. Inc. Your online source of Skin Care information!
- The American Cancer Society can provide you with skin cancer information and support.
- The American Academy of Dermatology can provide you with the latest skin care news.
2001 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 890 West, Santa Monica, California 90404-2172
Telephone: (310) 829-2708, Toll Free: (888) 372 -5284, Fax: (310) 828-0367
Website: http//www.clavin.com, E-mail: clavinh@earthlink.net
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