Sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Exposure to UV radiation from the sun and tanning salons causes many changes in the skin including wrinkles, discoloration, freckles, age spots, benign growths such as moles, and precancerous or cancerous growths. There are two main types of UV radiation: UVB and UVA. UVB rays cause sunburns and UVA rays cause tanning. Both rays contribute to the risk of developing skin cancer. UVA rays are responsible for photoaging.

Few sunscreens are successful at blocking UVA and UVB rays. A high concentration of zinc oxide with an SPF greater than 30 offers maximum UVA and UVB coverage.

Moisturizers
Moisturizers are applied to limit the natural evaporation of water from the skin and play an important role in maintaining the biofilm (see above).

Eye creams
The skin of your upper and lower eyelids is thin and lacks the oil glands found in surrounding facial skin. Because this skin is thin, blood pools beneath it and creates the blue hue on the lower eyelids. The ingredients of an eye cream should be directed at smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, inhibiting the oxidative process that occurs with environmental exposure, increasing skin thickness and density, and reducing the pooling blood beneath the skin.

Vitamin C Products
Vitamin C products are antioxidants. Antioxidants protect your skin from sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles. Vitamin C products are intended for use in conjunction with vitamin A derivatives, or solely for those persons who cannot tolerate vitamin A derivatives. Many over-the-counter vitamin C products are deactivated by light, air, and contact with skin. We recommend the use of LaRoche vitamin C products, as research studies have documented that they remain active once applied to the skin.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids, i.e. Glycolic Acids, Lactic Acids, Citric Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids loosen up the surface layer of cells on the skin. They give the skin a fresher look, and even out skin tone and pigmentation. With repeated use, they build the collagen substructure of the skin. The most common alpha hydroxy acid is glycolic acid. Because of their pH, glycolic acids can be irritating. Glycolic acids in over-the-counter products are not nearly as effective as those found in doctor’s offices. We have researched alpha hydroxy acid products in detail to identify those that contain the most effective yet tolerable glycolic acids.

Beta Hydroxy Acids
Salicylic acid is the most common beta hydroxy acid. It works by loosening the surface layers of the skin and building the infrastructure of the skin. It is a slightly more aggressive product than glycolic acid, so it can be more irritating. We perform salicylic acid facials in the office.