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Common questions on skin care:
1. How do I protect my skin against sun damage?
2. How do hormones and pregnancy affect my skin?
3. What is environmentally sensitized skin?
4. Will the use of exfoliants make my skin more sensitive?
5. Men's Skin care: is there a difference?
6. What is an effective solution for my oily acne prone skin?
1. How do I protect my skin against sun damage?
I never sunbathe anymore, why would I need a sunscreen?
No matter how sun-phobic your daily habits might be, you are exposed to a lot more UV light than you might think. Whether you are walking to your car, driving to work or taking a quick break outside, dangerous UV rays are constantly bombarding your skin and causing cumulative damage.
Be sure to apply sunscreen every morning, even if it is overcast.
What does “SPF” mean, and which is right for me?
SPF (sun protection factor) is a standardised measure that indicates how much additional time you can spend in the sun without getting burnt. For example, if you can usually spend 20 minutes outside before burning, an SPF 15 sunscreen will increase that time by 15 times.
Keep in mind that any sun exposure, whether you're light skinned or not, means that ageing UVA rays are entering the skin unless you're vigilant about using a sunscreems. You may notice even the slightest tan but the damage is being done.
How do I know if I am at risk for skin cancer?
Everyone has some risk of developing skin cancer, which can be made worse with lifetime of unprotected sun exposure and genetically lighter skin tone. For most people, a severe burn before 18 years of age almost doubles your risk of developing skin cancer and premature ageing, which is why it is critical to protect your children's delicate skin.
You should speak to your dermatologist immediately if you have a skin lesion that appears suddenly, or has an asymmetrical appearance, darker edges than the centre, changes colour or becomes larger than ¼ inch. A few days can make a difference between successfull removal and long term illness.
What makes Dermalogica's solar defense system a better choice?
Because Dermalogica is on the forefront of ingredient research, you are assured not only in the latest advances in sunscreen technology, but also skin care quality formulations that provides unsurpassed protection against moisture loss, free radical activity and irritation.
In addition Dermalogica offer a chemical free sunscreen formulation for sensitive skin. Ultra sensitive face block SPF 25.
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2. How do hormones and pregnancy affect my skin?
I sometimes breakout before my period. What can I do?
Your menstrual cycle wreaks havoc on your body's hormones, the worst of which is manifested just before your period. Many people find that they experience a breakout during this time; primarily because their heightened hormone levels lead the skin to produce more oil. Cleansing the skin thoroughly with an antibacterial face wash for the few days prior and during your period will help to reduce the oil levels.
Although what you eat and drink does not necessarily cause a breakout, avoiding caffeine, alcohol, chocolate and other refined foods will help your body stay balanced.
How does pregnancy affect the skin?
Pregnancy can be a rather overwhelming time as your body undergoes massive changes. Knowing in advance how these changes are going to affect you will help in dealing with them. For example, dry, itchy skin will need the skin smoothing benefits of an enriched moisturizer and a soap free cleanser. It is also vitally important to be extra thorough with sun protection because hormonal changes make the skin more susceptible to permanent pigmentation damage.
Treat pregnancy breakouts with a recommended product like the blemish clearing Special Clearing Booster. A moisturising facial masque will help return much needed hydration to the skin without adding any oil.
Your vitamin supplements are also very important during this time, not only for the baby's nutrition but also for the maintenance of your skin. Be sure to discuss your supplements with your health care professional.
Vitamin E and Zinc have been shown to help reduce stretch marks, while Vitamin C aids in collagen production, leaving skin supple and resilient.
What effect do oral contraceptives have on the skin?
Oral contraceptives have a very similar effect as pregnancy on the body's hormones, leading to many of the same skin problems. Although symptoms and their severity differ depending on each person, women taking oral contraception are much more sensitive to sunlight and can develop a permanently uneven skin tone if they do not adequately protect themselves. During this time you should use a minimum SPF15 sun block formulated in a moisturising base, like the Sheer Moisture SPF 15.
Oral contraceptives can also lead to increased breakouts and oil productions which can easily be addressed with an antibacterial skin wash and oil free moisturiser. At the same time many women experience more dehydration of the skin, which should be addressed with a hydrating facial masque and consistent use of the appropriate moisturiser.
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3. What is environmentally sensitized skin?
What is the difference between sensitive and environmentally sensitised skin?
Professionally speaking, skin sensitised by the environment is easily irritated and unable to tolerate over-stimulation from aggressive environmental factors such as pollution, sudden changes in climate and humidity and certain cosmetic ingredients. While a small percentage of the population is born with genetically sensitive skin, most people who experience redness, itching and inflammation are actually suffering from an environmentally induced reaction.
An allergic skin on the other hand is the result of an immune system reaction to a particular ingredient or environmental influence. An allergic skin often exhibits the same symptoms as a sensitised skin but is more difficult to treat and often requires a professional patch test from a dermatologist to identify the allergen.
People with sensitised or allergic skin often avoid skin care protection because of bad reactions in the past, or because they feel that any products placed on the skin will cause additional irritation. This is a dangerous mistake, since delicate skin should be protected from environmental irritants and pollution at all times by a professionally recommended product. During times of extra sensitivity or inflammation you should supplement your daily skin care regimen with Dermalogica's Environment Control System.
Could my skin care or make–up be sensitising my skin?
All people, but especially those with environmentally sensitised skin, should avoid the commonly used ingredients, as they have been shown to cause skin irritation: artificial fragrance, lanolin, S.D alcohol, artificial colour and mineral oil.
Many companies formulate with these substances because they are cheaper.
How should I care for my skin when it feels delicate and irritated?
You skin care therapist can recommend a specialised treatment to soothe and calm your skin. It is best to book in for a treatment where the therapist can customise a treatment and skin-care regime especially for you.
Are my broken capillaries the result of having a sensitive skin?
Broken capillaries are caused by sun damage and a genetic predisposition to those threads like veins. IPL is the best treatment to remove broken capillaries, it is best to book in with one of our technicians to have a complementary consultation on the treatment.
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4. Will the use of exfoliants make my skin more sensitive?
How does exfoliation affect the ageing process?
the skins rate of renewal varies widely depending on the skin's age and general health.In the late teens and early 20's, the skin completely regenerates itself about every twenty days, but may take thirty five days to complete the cycle just fifteen years later. This slow-down is accompanied by a decrease in new cell production, resulting in skin that appears thickened and dull.
Fortunately, a balanced skin care regimen, complete with exfoliation, can help return the skins renewal process to it's prior level, dissolving dulling skin debris and helping to reduce the tell tale signs of premature ageing.
What type of exfoliation is right for me?
Thanks to dramatic advances in formula technology there are now many forms of exfoliation, each suited to different skin conditions. The most popular types of exfoliation involve Hydroxy Acids plus fruit enzymes. Together these ingredients dissolve the “cement” that holds skin debris and impurities to the skins surface, helping to reveal the more supple clear skin beneath.
Your skin care therapist can prescribe a synergistic combination of at home products to add to your regimen.
How much exfoliation is enough?
When it comes to exfoliation, moderation is the key to keeping the skin looking and feeling its best. Unfortunately, many people become very enthused about the results of their exfoliation, and begin to combine different types and different brands. After just a few sessions, the skin may become tight and dry and its moisture barrier severely compromised.
In the long term this type of assault can lead to severely sensitised skin that is subject to breakouts and redness and accelerate ageing. As a general rule of thumb, use only the products recommended by your skin care therapist. In addition anyone using Retin A, Accutane or any other prescribed exfoliant should not subject their skin to any additional exfoliation as it may cause permanent skin damage.
Will the use of exfoliants make my skin more sensitive?
You skin care professional will recommend exfoliation products best suited to your skin condition. Follow their advice on frequency of use. It is quite normal for the skin to appear slightly flushed following and exfoliation treatment.
Whether using exfoliation at home or in the skin care centre, it is very important to remember the skin will always become more vulnerable to sunlight, always wear a sun block to protect your skin.
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5. Men's Skin care: is there a difference?
How does men's skin care differ from women? Can men benefit from skin care products?
Men and woman's skin is similar in structure although men tend to have more hair and increased oil production. Men can certainly benefit from a professional recommended skin care regimen, not only to remedy shaving problems, but to combat other problems.
I am a soap user now and I don't want a complicated regimen. What should I use?
Many people prefer not to have a complicated regimen, but realise that using a soap and water approach can damage and dehydrate the skin. Dermalogica have a very simple and effective routine for those that want the quick and easy approach. Please consult with one of our therapists for a skin consultation.
What can I do to avoid ingrown hairs?
Many men suffer from ingrown hairs, which is often simply a result of improper shaving preparation. Before shaving makes sure you cleanse the skin as well as exfoliate. This prepares and warms the skin for shaving.
Select a shaving product that provides a close shave and reduces redness.
Feel free to ask one of our skin care therapists for a sample of Dermalogia's Professional Shave.
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6. What is an effective solution for my oily acne prone skin?
What is acne and how do I know if I have it?
Acne affects the skin by a series of recurrent infected breakouts. Classic acne blemishes include blackheads, millia, pimples and cysts. If you experience ongoing breakouts you should seek help. With numerous advances in skin care, more and more people are combating their acne with regular facials treatments and at home regimens.
What can I do at home to help my breakouts?
Excellent skin care and hygiene are vitally important to remove the excess oils and bacteria that stimulate acne. Dermalogica's products are non greasy and completely water soluble making them ideal for breakout prone skin. Always follow a strict regime of thorough cleansing with tepid water, followed by a conditioning toner and oil free moisturiser.
Why do some people breakout in their 40's?
Stress and hormone changes are the primary cause of the re-emergence of acne well after puberty.
Recent studies indicate that 40 – 50 % of adults are diagnosed with persistent low grade acne. Along with lifestyle changes, including reducing ones stress level and improving ones diet there are several products that can address these problems.
Are there some products or foods that can make me breakout?
Research has revealed that several factors can make a person susceptible to acne breakouts. People who are breakout- prone should only use products that are non–comedogenic. Many skin sensitising products contain ingredients such as mineral oil, lanolin, colour and fragrance.
In addition lifestyle changes can often improve your skin. Try to reduce stress, drink plenty of water and limit your caffeine intake.
What is the difference between acne vulgaris and acne rosacea?
Acne Vulgaris is the more common form of acne and is caused by clogging and inflammation of the skin's sebaceous gland and hair follicle. Acne rosacea is caused by the blood vessels of the face becoming inflamed and swollen. Skin can be permanently reddened and the nose can become swollen. Acne rosacea, like acne vulgaris is treatable.
We recommend IPL Photo-rejuvenation for acne rosacea, please consult one of our therapists for more information.
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