Fourth of July Summer Skin Care

Blog

Fourth of July Summer Skin Care

The Fourth of July is a great time to honor our country, and also an ideal opportunity to spend some time outdoors. Whether in a backyard at a barbecue, park for a picnic, or poolside at a party, a lot of people will be outside for festivities. That means more exposure to the sun. And as we know, even if it’s not sunny out, harmful UVA and UVB rays can still prevalent. So, here are a few tips that will help keep your skin protected:

Women US Flag
  • When applying sunscreens, layering does not provide added SPF protection. That means that the SPF you end up with is only the strength of the highest one applied. For example, if you apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 then apply one with an SPF of 25, you will have the protection of the SPF of 30.
  • Despite that, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) still recommends applying two layers of sunscreen on all exposed areas. The second layer should be applied about 30 minutes after the first and at least 30 minutes before any sun exposure.
  • Reapply sunscreen periodically throughout the day. This is something not a lot of people do or are aware of, but it’s very important. It’s advised to reapply sunscreen roughly about every two hours or after you have been exposed to water.
  • SPF protection is on a logarithmic scale. This means there is a bigger difference between SPF 25 and SPF 30 than there is with SPF 30 and SPF 45.
  • SPF’s below 15 are essentially worthless. They simply do not provide the skin with enough protection from the sun. We recommend an SPF of at least 30 to all of our patients.
  • Don’t forget your lips. The sun’s rays can dry delicate lip tissue. Keep your lips hydrated by using a lip balm with an SPF.
  • After a long day out in the sun take a cold shower. It can decrease acne breakouts and help to better hydrate the skin.
  • If you do contract sunburn take Advil or Motrin. This will help to block the inflammation that can occur, and actually lessen the burn itself.

Remember these tips to keep your skin safe this holiday weekend and beyond!

Tagged with: , , , ,
Posted in Dermatology, Skin Care

Hollywood’s Secret to Great Hair

A lot of female celebrities are known for thick, luscious hair, but what’s their secret? We looked into it and found out that it’s most likely attributed to hair growth supplement Viviscal.Woman hair

From Jennifer Aniston to Reese Witherspoon, a number of different celebrities use Viviscal. Gwyneth Paltrow even told Vogue that she believes in the product so much, that she wants to buy stock in the company. Aside from helping hair to grow thicker and faster, it can also help heat-damaged hair. That’s country singer Miranda Lambert’s main reason for using the product. She told Us Weekly, “Because my hair gets styled so often, I need to protect it. Viviscal vitamins help.”

Some of the ingredients of Viviscal include Biotin, Vitamin C, and Aminomar Marine Complex. The AminoMar is derived from marine protein molecules and is proven to nourish thin hair from within. This leads to stronger, healthier, and more vibrant-looking hair. Results can be seen in as little as three months after use, and at least six months to know if it is working for you.

And if you still need convincing about the product, model Molly Sims has this to say, ‘When my hair looks good, I feel good. Viviscal saved my hair and made me love it again.”

So, if you’re struggling with your hair, Viviscal may be for you! Contact our office to order it today.

Tagged with: , , ,
Posted in Uncategorized

SkinCeuticals Newest Sunscreen is Great for Discoloration

Here at the Lisa S. Ball, NP Building we’re all big fans of SkinCeuticals’ sunscreens. So, when we found out about their latest one, the Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30, we had to carry it!

SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30

As a lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen, it pairs the benefits of an SPF with discoloration correcting and hydrating ingredients. This in turn moisturizes the skin, delivering a brighter, more balanced complexion instantly. Our aesthetician Lauren Battaglia has been trying out the product and shared her thoughts, “This product is amazing! I’ve been using it for a couple of weeks now and it really gives my skin a glow. It’s a must for any skincare routine.”

As with all SkinCeuticals products, the Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 also went through a rigorous research and development process. This is evident in the detailed description of the ingredients on the SkinCeuticals website:

  • 1% Tranexamic acid minimizes the reoccurrence of discoloration and brown patches with continued use.
  • 2% Niacinamide helps to reduce the appearance of discoloration.
  • 7% Glycerin draws and retains moisture.
  • 3% Phenylethyl Resorcinol protects against discoloration.
  • Reflective Mica instantly brightens skin.

As you can see, the Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 from SkinCeuticals offers a variety of benefits and is a must-have this Summer! Contact our office today to get yours.

 

Source: SkinCeuticals

Tagged with: , ,
Posted in Skin Care

How to Care for Your Skin at the Gym

With COVID-19 vaccination rates increasing, more people are heading back to the gym. Aside from the obvious health benefits of going, there are however some things to be aware of in regards to your skin.Woman at gym

As you may know, gyms can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Some of which, can lead to a number of different skin infections. These include:

  • Fungal Infections – Whether it’s ringworm or athlete’s foot, these funguses thrive in wet/moist environments. Locker rooms and showers are the most common places for these to be located.
  • Bacterial Infections – This mainly includes staph or folliculitis. Both of which are usually transmitted through open cuts, wounds, sores, or even a hair follicle root.
  • Viral Infections – Plantar warts are the most common. These can get in through open wounds or cuts in the feet.

Pretty shocking stuff to say the least.  So, what are some things you can do to protect your skin the next time you go to the gym? The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends these tips:

1) Clean and disinfect all equipment/weights before & after use. Although it’s been determined by health officials that surface sanitization isn’t of the utmost importance when it comes to COVID-19, it does have a lot of significance for the skin. A recent study conducted by FitRated determined that there are 362 times more bacteria on free weights than on a toilet seat.

2) Always wash or sanitize your hands. This one goes without explanation.

3) Wear loose-fitting, moisture-wicking clothes. This will help keep the skin dry and prevent bacteria from growing. Remember to wash gym clothes after each wear.

4) Always wear footwear in locker rooms and showers (especially around pools). Keep a pair of shower shoes, flip-flops, or sandals in your gym bag. Never walk around barefoot in a gym!

5) Keep any cuts clean and covered. Avoid using saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs until your wound is healed.

6) Shower as soon as possible after. When done showering, put on clean clothes, including clean socks and underwear. And never share personal care items, including towels and razors.

All in all, if you find yourself getting back into the routine of going to the gym again, don’t forget the health of your skin.

Source: The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

Tagged with: , ,
Posted in Dermatology, Skin Care

Product of the Month: SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

With June being Acne Awareness Month, we thought what better time than now to highlight our new skincare product from SkinCeuticals, Silymarin CF.

Taking over six years to develop, this breakthrough vitamin C serum was specifically formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin. The ingredients of l-ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, salicylic acid, and silymarin (milk thistle extract) all help to prevent oil oxidation. Which in turn lowers the possibility of breakouts. Aside from that, it can also significantly improve skin texture, clarity, radiance, and fine lines.

With all that SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF can do, it’s easy to see why it’s the perfect product for those dealing with acne. If you would like more information about this, or any of our other products, call 716-688-0020 or click here.

Source: SkinCeuticals.com

Tagged with: , , , ,
Posted in Skin Care

Skin Cancer Prevention & Detection

With this month being Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to emphasize the significance of protecting your skin and getting an annual skin examination. It is estimated that over three million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. That means roughly one in five people in the U.S. will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime.

So, what can you do to take care of your skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer? Here are some tips from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) on how to do just that:

Seek shade (when appropriate). Keep in mind that the sun’s harmful UV rays are most prevalent from 10am-2pm.
Wear sun-protective clothing. Clothes that cover exposed areas of skin are ideal (ex. a long-sleeved shirt, pants, wide-brimmed hat).
Apply sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant one with an SPF of at least 30.

Since skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early, we encourage our patients to get their skin examined at least once a year. Whereas patients with a history of concerning lesions are seen more regularly. When conducting a skin cancer examination, we adhere to the ABCDEs of melanoma. They are as follows:

Skin Cancer Screening

A = Asymmetry. In early forms, malignant melanomas are asymmetrical, meaning that you cannot draw a line down the middle and have equal parts on each side.
B = Border. Uneven borders with irregularities or blurs.
C = Color. Varying shades of brown, blue, or black.
D = Diameter. Melanoma tends to be larger than normal moles, ones the size of a pencil eraser are something that you should look at closely.
E = Evolving. Any changes in the size, shape, color, or feel.

As you can see, there are some ways to reduce your risk of skin cancer. And even for those diagnosed with it, there is hope, but early detection is crucial. If you notice a suspicious spot, or would just like to have your skin evaluated, contact our office today.

Source(s): aad.org, skincancer.org

Tagged with: ,
Posted in Dermatology, Skin Care

Importance of Vitamin C for the Skin

Woman vitamin C

Our skin is naturally built to repair, but sometimes things in our daily routine (ie. sun exposure) can still lead to premature skin aging and damage. That’s why regularly using a product containing vitamin C, an antioxidant that our bodies do not naturally produce, can be so beneficial.

As one of the best anti-aging ingredients out there, vitamin C is also a natural sun protectant. Because of this, we encourage our patients to apply it first thing in the morning. And regular use can even promote collagen growth! It is important to note, however, that vitamin C for the skin must be properly formulated. If not, the benefits will not be as significant. That’s why we like SkinCeuticals vitamin C antioxidants. Their line in particular goes through a rigorous development process that ensures optimal results (all of their vitamin C serums are backed by 30 years of antioxidant research and demonstrated efficacy in independent clinical studies).

As you can see, vitamin C is an essential ingredient in any skincare regimen. Call our office or click here to find out which of SkinCeuticals vitamin C serums is right for you.

 

Source: SkinCeuticals

Tagged with: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Skin Care

Why the HydraFacial is the Perfect Treatment for Rosacea

With April being Rosacea Awareness Month, we thought it would be a great opportunity to highlight the condition and explore an effective treatment option for it.

So, what is rosacea exactly? Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that causes redness and swelling on the face. Symptoms can range from pimples, lines, and visible blood vessels to dry skin with persistent redness. While there is no cure for the condition, the HydraFacial is a popular option for our patients with rosacea.

As a facial treatment, the HydraFacial helps to gently soothe, moisturize, and comfort the skin. All of which are ideal for those dealing with rosacea. And the Deluxe HydraFacial in particular takes it all to the next level! Offering all the benefits of the basic HydraFacial, the Deluxe includes a booster that is specifically customized for the patient’s skin and LED light therapy that helps to reduce any redness or inflammation. Results are seen immediately after treatment and in some cases can last up to four weeks!

HydraFacial Treatment

If you would like to learn more about the HydraFacial at the Lisa S. Ball, NP Building in Buffalo, NY, and how it can help with your rosacea, call 716-688-0020 or click here.

 

Source: www.rosacea.org

Tagged with: , , ,
Posted in Skin Care

Product of the Month: SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel

SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel

The transition from the cold, harsh winter weather can be very tough on the skin. That’s why for the month of March, we decided to go green with our skincare in the form of the SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel!

The SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel is a soothing green gel serum that calms and hydrates the skin while improving visible redness. Containing hyaluronic acid, cucumber, thyme, and mulberry this product is the perfect moisturizer for those with sensitive, acne-prone skin. The cucumber and thyme help to soothe and calm the skin, while the mulberry helps to even the skin tone out. The skin is left looking noticeably refreshed and hydrated.

It’s a very popular option for patients after treatments like chemical peels, micro-needling, and Sublative RF Skin Tightening. “A lot of my patients use it after micro-needling,” says aesthetician Lauren Battaglia. “They love how it feels and it really makes a big difference minimizing the appearance of any redness that occurs after treatment.”

As you can see, the SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel is the perfect skincare product as we transition into spring. For more information, call us at 716-688-0020 or click here.

Source: SkinCeuticals.com

Tagged with: , , , ,
Posted in Skin Care

Importance of Using Hydrating Products this Winter

Cold temps, low humidity, harsh winds, and dry indoor heat are all common this time of year. All of which can deplete your skin of necessary moisture. This is why it is so important to use a product (or products) that provides lasting hydration. SkinCeuticals in particular offers a number of facial moisturizers that are great for just that! Some of our favorites include:

Woman in winter

  • Daily Moisture. A lightweight, long-lasting moisturizer that hydrates all while reducing the appearance of enlarged pores (for normal to oily skin).
  • Emollience. A great everyday moisturizer that combines natural extracts and essential oils to help restore and maintain daily moisture (for normal to dry skin).
  • Hydrating B5 Gel. An oil-free serum that combines vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid. This helps to replenish moisture and restore radiance for a smoother complexion (ideal for acne-prone skin).
  • Metacell Renewal B3. A comprehensive daily moisturizer, that is specifically formulated to improve the appearance of early signs of aging on the skin.

As you can see, hydrating products can help immensely to combat the harsh elements of the season. For more information on the products above and to find out which is best for you, call us at 716-688-0020 or click here.

Source: SkinCeuticals.com

Tagged with: , , , , , ,
Posted in Products, Skin Care