Frequently asked skin care questions
Monday, October 26th, 2009For this blog I have compiled a list of questions that are frequently asked by patients in our medspa, as well as on the Internet.
Q:Does Salicylic Acid make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure?
A: Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid. BHA’s are exfoliants, causing the top layers of the skin to exfoliate or shed. With salicylic acid there is an increased sensitivity to sunlight. It is important to use sunscreen while using salicylic acid and avoid direct exposure to the sun.
Q: What are the best products to use post chemical peel?
A: Post peel your skin may feel sensitive and somewhat like a mild windburn or sunburn. Remember do not pick any peeling skin! The best products to use post peel to minimize discomfort are products that are gentle on the skin. Make sure you use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer. I recommend that you start on Skin Ceuticals Phyto Corrective, it has natural botanicals that work to significantly reduce inflammation and Meg 21, not only is this product anti-aging, but it will help with post peel dryness and flaking.
Q: What are the best products to use during pregnancy?
A:Due to significant hormonal changes that accompany pregnancy acne tends to flare up. Starting on glycolic acid would be great to help keep skin under control. Melasma, skin discoloration, is also very common in pregnancy so it would be beneficial to add a topical Vitamin C to your skin care regimen. I like Skin Ceuticals Vitamin C, this helps fade the dark spots and prevent new ones from forming. Phyto Corrective Gel is another great product to use during pregnancy because it is oil free and helps soothe inflamed skin and has natural skin lighteners that will give you a more even skin tone. Don’t forget to use sunscreen daily! Products to avoid all together are salicylic acid, retinoids, and accutane.
Q: What if you don’t “peel” after a chemical peel?
A: Some people do not peel right after a peel, but the chemical peel is still just as effective. Peels rapidly exfoliate allowing the dead skin cells to shed more effectively. If you do not have a lot of build up on the surface of the skin you will not peel as much. However, most people do at least have a slight flaking 2-3 days post treatment. This can be minimized by the usage of proper skin care products.
Q: How do you protect your skin during exercise?
A: For people who are worried about protecting their skin from outside elements while jogging, sunblock is a necessity. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and try to exercise during low peaks of sun (before 10 AM and after 3 PM) if possible. Wear a hat and reapply sunblock. Make sure to wash you skin after exercising to get rid of excess oils.
Q:What can I expect post Laser Hair Removal?
A: After laser hair removal you may have mild redness, but it is helpful if you ice post treatment. You need to avoid retin A, glycolic acid, salicylic acid and direct sun exposure for a couple days post treatment. Around 3-10 days the hairs that were treated will surface, this is not regrowth. Hair follicles need to purge the hairs that were treated, but remained under the skin. Refrain from waxing, bleaching, plucking, but you can still shave. It would be helpful to use an exfoliator, such as our Breyer exfoliator, to help remove the hair as it falls out. Remember to always use your sunblock!
before/after laser hair chin
Breyer Medspa … Comfortable In Your Own Skin.
Under the supervision of Michael D. Birnbaum, MD, F.A.C.E, F.A.C.O.G
www.breyermedspa.com
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