Anyone who has ever had a skin care conversation with me knows how much I love using topical vitamin C products. Yes, I admit it.  I’m a pusher.  The list of benefits is long and everyone can use it.  By feeding your skin vitamin C, you nourish it with a powerful antioxidant that not only repairs skin damage but also helps to prevent further damage.  It clears skin tone and is essential for the formation of collagen, which helps keep the skin plump and wrinkle free.

As much as I love vitamin C, there is another vitamin that also has my heart:  vitamin A.  Topical vitamin A is a prescription-strength retinoid best known as tretinoin, or by the brand names Retin-A and Renova, just to name a few. Originally formulated to treat acne (which is still a current practice) tretinoin was also found to reduce wrinkles and smooth skin tone.  It works this way:  It converts to retinoic acid when applied to the skin.  It then binds to corresponding receptors in the skin causing a peeling of the top layer, resulting in smooth skin tone.  Retinoids also boost collagen by blocking the genes that cause it to break down, leading to reduction in existing wrinkles and prevention of the formation of future wrinkles.  There is a hitch; Vitamin A in this form can be harsh, causing many users to suffer uncomfortable side effects such as redness and burning.

Enter Tecniche Acme A  ICONICA, the new optimum form of vitamin A, merges with top-performing ingredients to create and extraordinary anti-wrinkle, anti-redness, pro-radiance serum without the harsh side effects.

ICONICA is the most bio-available form of vitamin A and the first stabilized form, offering the highest, most effective activity value to the skin.  It is the least irritating form of vitamin A and performs closest to retinoic acid without a prescription.  This high-performing serum also contains a blend of naturally occurring ingredients and plant extracts that prevent the stiffening and breakdown of collagen and elastin, a process known as glycation, and promote overall skin health and radiance.

Supreme C and Acme A serums are available at Aroma Essence Skincare and can be purchased during our retail hours Mon-Thurs. 12-1 or call for a pick-up time that is convenient for you. Have a skin care question?  Email me anytime,  julianne@aromaessenceskincare.com

Has winter taken its toll on your skin?

Here is your quick fix: microdermabrasion, a resurfacing technique that is safe and effective in improving the appearance of aged skin, wrinkles, skin texture and color. It removes the dead topmost layer of skin, leaving skin softer, smoother and more vibrant. It also stimulates the elastic tissue beneath the surface of the skin, improving aging skin. This results in a healthier and firmer appearance over time.

After years of experience using various different microderm machines, my preference is the crystal-free diamond head wand. Most describe that it feels like a cat’s tongue as the wand glides across the surface of your skin. The diamond head gently removes the dead layer, while the suction lifts the skin, removes the debris and allows for a clear view so that the esthetician can work deeper when needed. The length of the treatment and number of sessions vary depending on your skin type and condition.

For best results, I recommend a deep cleansing facial or short consultation before booking your microderm series. Visit the Microdermabrasion Q & A section on our website for more details.

Take advantage of our Spring Special:
Microderm & Enzyme Mask, a series of three for $150.
Call and book your free consultation or facial today at 641-1616.

Facial services available 9a.m. – 6p.m. Mon. – Fri. ,
Open to the public Noon – 1p.m. Mon. – Thurs. for Retail and Gift Certificate Purchases.

Common ingredients in anti-wrinkle creams

The effectiveness of anti-wrinkle creams depends in part on the active ingredient or ingredients. Here are some common ingredients that may result in slight to modest improvement in the appearance of wrinkles.

Retinol

Retinol is a vitamin A compound, the first antioxidant to be widely used in nonprescription wrinkle creams. Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals — unstable oxygen molecules that break down skin cells and cause wrinkles.

Vitamin C

Another potent antioxidant, vitamin C may help protect skin from sun damage.

Hydroxy acids

Alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and poly hydroxy acids are exfoliants — substances that remove the upper layer of old, dead skin and stimulate the growth of smooth, evenly pigmented new skin.

An anti-wrinkle cream may lessen the appearance of your wrinkles, depending on how often you use it, the type and amount of active ingredient in the wrinkle cream, and the extent of the wrinkles you want to treat. See a skin care professional to help you create a personalized skin care plan, assess your skin type, evaluate your skin’s condition and recommend the products for you and your budget.

But if you want to take the guesswork out of your skin care regimen, try these more reliable ways to improve and maintain your skin’s youthful appearance.

Protect your skin from the sun.

Exposure to UV light speeds up the natural aging process of your skin, causing wrinkles and rough, blotchy skin. In fact, sun exposure is the No. 1 reason for signs of aging in the skin, including uneven pigmentation. Protect your skin — and prevent future wrinkles — by limiting the time you spend in the sun and always wearing protective clothing and a hat. Also, use sunscreen on exposed skin year-round when outdoors, even in winter.

Choose products with built-in sunscreen.

When selecting skin care products, choose those with a built-in SPF of at least 15. Also, be sure to select products that are broad spectrum, meaning they block both UVA and UVB rays.

Use moisturizers.

Dry skin turns plump skin cells into shriveled ones, creating fine lines and wrinkles. Though moisturizers can’t prevent wrinkles, they can temporarily mask tiny lines and creases.

Don’t smoke.

Smoking causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin. It also damages collagen and elastin — fibers that give your skin its strength and elasticity. As a result, skin begins to sag and wrinkle prematurely.