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When the sun shines on the skin, the epidermis (top layer) absorbs the short UVB rays. These ultra violet rays generate oxygen-free radicals that can destroy and mutate cells and even cause skin cancer. The longer UVA rays go deep into the skin's dermis (deeper skin layer), and even through the skin. These rays penetrate thirty to forty times deeper than UVB rays, and also generate oxygen-free radicals which can mutate collagen, elastin and even DNA. In time, it is believed that these changes may result in a breakdown in connective tissue. Visible signs of this destruction encompass intrinsic aging and photoaging changes - including wrinkles, pigment changes (brown spots), Learn More about Pigment Problems actinic keratosis (pre-skin cancers) and possibly skin cancers! You may find it shocking to know that more than 1 million new cases of non-melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed every year and there are approximately 47,000 cases of melanoma. The human body uses many internal antioxidant mechanisms to defend itself from oxidative damage, but excessive exposure to ultraviolet light as well as the natural aging process depletes the body of its internal supply of antioxidants. Antioxidants prevent oxidative damage by neutralizing oxygen-free radicals before they can attack the body. Some antioxidants are available to the body by oral ingestion, but many individuals do not achieve even the minimum daily requirement through diet or supplements. Furthermore, body control mechanisms tightly control the amounts available by oral ingestion to the skin cells. Clinical studies show that topical application of certain antioxidant combinations can provide up to eight-fold antioxidant protection, 96% reduction of sunburn cells, and prevent the formation of thymine dimers in UV irradiated skin. (f.y.i. thymine dimers are precursers to certain types of skin cancers) When looking for a topical antioxidant product to reduce free radical damage, search for a low pH L-ascorbic acid (stable Vitamin C) combined with a-tocopherol (Vitamin E) for maximum results. Although sunblocks are still your first line of defense against skin damage, keep in mind that many do not protect you from long UVA rays. These deep penetrating rays go through the windshield of your car and the windows of your office. Many times we can see sundamage on the left side of your face if you spend a good portion of your day driving in your car and in countries where they drive on the other side we see the damage on the right side of their face. Sunblocks and antioxidants should both be worn YEAR ROUND not just in the summer to give you the most protection against sun damage. Many sunblocks on the market protect you from UVB but NOT against the long UVA rays leaving your skin at risk for pre-mature aging and cell damage. When shopping for a safe yet effective sunblock, look for a product that contains physical blocks like Titanium Dioxide combined with Transparent Zinc Oxide. These products will be less irritating, provide broad spectrum protection and are safe for children. In addition to these check out the much anticipated Anthelios SX.
It has been approved by the FDA and is now available at Skin Solutions, Inc. It is a light, non-greasy, fragrance- free, allergy-tested, PABA-free formula that offers 24-hour hydration. Anthelios SX is a breakthrough sunblock that uses three powerful sunscreens to provide complete broad spectrum sun protection. Anthelios contains Mexoryl SX, a unique organic UV filter that recharges for longer protection. Other UVA filters are not photostable, meaning once they absorb UV rays, they lose their effectiveness. The sunscreens in Anthelios SX absorb the sun's radiation then safely emit it in order to absorb more. This gives Anthelios SX the highest photostability, staying up to 90% active even after 5 hours. Anthelios SX has an exclusive combination of three sun filters: Octocrylene protects against UVB rays. Parsol 1789 (avobenzone) protects against long UVA rays and is stabilized by the Octocrylene. Mexoryl SX is photostable on its own and protects against short UVA rays. Mexoryl SX fills the gap in sun protection unaddressed by all other formulas in the US.
C E Ferulic remains the most powerful antioxidant on the market! In addition to this formula SkinCeuticals offers a variety of AOX+ formulations provide the supporting cast. This latest advancement combines pure L-ascorbic acid with ferulic acid to increase vitamin C performance in a range of concentrations to address different skin types and conditions.
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition bothering many individuals today. Thereare many possible causes for the increased prevalence of hyperpigmentation. In addition to past chronic sun exposure. a large number of women are taking birth control medications, which increases susceptibility of discoloration. It's interesting tonote that our large aging population is seeing age and hormone-related pigment become more visible. In an attempt to halt this process, we can use ingredients in home care skin products and professional treatments that are called "tyrosinase inhibitors". These ingredients stop a chemical chain reaction in our skin from producing excess pigment. In addition to wearing sunblock 365 days per year, the best way to combat uneven pigment is to use pigment fighting products that contain tyrosinase inhibitors like hydroquinone, kojic acid and azelaic up to two times per day. For a more aggressive clinical approach you should also apply a Vitamin A product one time per day combined with a skin exfoliant such as glycolic acid which will enhance cellular turnover and exfoliate dead surface cells. This powerful combination will be your best line of defense for a more even glowing complexion. Because these products can be irritating to some, it is important that your home care is monitored by a qualified Esthetician or your physician. Clinical lightening peels (go to PCA Lightening Peel) are also available to enhance your results to better meet your skin health expectations. Contact Skin Solutions for a skin evaluation to see if you are a candidate for any of these products or treatments at 257-5982.
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