Skin Care and Treatments of Melbourne Dermatology - Skin Care

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UV Exposure
Aging Skin and Mature Skin
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Elta MD
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Fake Bake
Frederic Fekkai
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Glytone
Great Lips Rx
Heliocare
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Leaf & Rusher
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SkinMedica
Teamine
Theraplex
Ti-Silc / Z-Silc
Topix
Tricomin
VitaMedica
Zeno MD
Browse more brands.

Facial Skin Condition Treatments

Adult Acne
Broken Capillaries
Dark Circles
Deep Wrinkles
Dry Skin
Fine Lines
Hyperpigmentation
Open Pores
Puffy Eyes
Rosacea
Sagging Skin

Body Skin Condition Treatments

Aging Hands
Breast Firming
Cellulite
Hands
Keratosis Pilaris
Lips
Scalp Acne
Stretch Marks

Skin Care Ingredients

Alpha Lipoic Acid
Arginine + Serine
Asiatic Acid
Blueberry
Caffeine
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid
Ceramides
Chlorogenic Acid
Chrysin
Coffee Berry
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Mexoryl
Pro-Xylane
Silymarin
Sodium Laureth Sulfate/Sulphate
Browse more ingredients.

Clinical Procedures and Topics

Four Fundamentals
Absurd Skin Care
Aging Skin
Antioxidants
Botox
Enzyme Exfoliation
Free Radical Damage
French Skin Care
Glycolic Acid
Idebenone
Irrational Fears
Klein Becker
Oxidative Stress
Paula Begoun
Perricone
Restylane
Skin Structure
Stem Cells
Healthy Skin Barrier Function
Smoking
Sun Protection
Topical Vitamin C/Firming
Choices and Needs
Strivectin
Additional clinical skincare topics.



Skin Care

Monday, 21 September 2009

La Roche-Posay — Hair and Scalp Health and Hair Loss Video

La Roche-Posay Hair and Scalp Health and Hair Loss Video. Includes promotional information regarding La Roche-Posay Kerium Anti-Hair Loss.


La Roche-Posay Kerium is unavailable in the US and Australia. We recommend ProCyte Tricomin as an alternative.

Tuesday, 22 September 2009

Neova Creme De La Copper

What are some treatments for sagging skin which people with sensitive skin can use? I have been unable to use any of the Vitamin C or retinoid products.


Neova Creme De La Copper

Neova Creme De La Copper and SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex are excellent options for sagging extremely sensitive and sensitive skin.

Tuesday, 22 September 2009

Skinceuticals CE Ferulic for Stretch Marks

I've heard that Vitamin C serums can help reduce new stretch marks. Is this true, and would Skinceuticals CE Ferulic help?


Skinceuticals CE Ferulic for Stretch Marks

Vitamin C serums can stimulate collagen production which may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, however high concentration, low pH glycolic acid and retinoic acid are likely more effective topical options. Therefore you would only use a Vitamin C serum in addition to these options.

Because stretch marks occur in the dermis, the deepest portion of your skin, you will need the deepest-penetrating Vitamin C to get the most optimal effect, should you wish to try this. A low concentration Vitamin C serum is most likely to be an expensive waste of time.

The most potent Vitamin C serums are Obagi C-Clarifying Serum, IS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ and Obagi Professional C Serum 20%, the former being available on prescription only.

Obagi Professional C Serum 20% contains zinc chloride, which helps break down damaged collagen, and other ingredients which drive Vitamin C in further, factors absent from Skinceuticals CE Ferulic. The concentration of Vitamin C is also 5% higher and the product is more stable.

Alyria Exfoliating Cream Level 3 (30% glycolic acid) and Glytone Body Lotion (17.5% glycolic acid) are glycolic acid options.

If you notice stretch marks, begin treatment at home immediately and schedule a visit with a laser dermatologist — once the stretch marks have changed colour from red/purple/pink to white, there is far less which can be done.

Tuesday, 22 September 2009

SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex for Plumping Up Lips

SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex for Plumping Up Lips

I am impressed with the plumping effect of SkinMedica TNS on my face. Is it safe and appropriate to use SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex to help plump up the lips?


You may prefer to use the SkinMedica TNS Lip Plump System, which contains the same major active ingredient (human fibroblast conditioned media) as SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex, in addition to niacin, which increases blood flow with the effect of increasing lip fullness, however yes — it is safe to use the facial product on the lips. The product leaves no residue.

For further information and a video about the ingredients in SkinMedica TNS, refer Human Fibroblast Conditioned Media.

Remember to use a Lip Sunscreen, as the lips are the most vulnerable to photodamage and skin cancer.

Tuesday, 22 September 2009

Relying on Sunscreens in Makeup

Can I use my makeup as sunscreen to prevent my skin from aging?


No, studies show that under typical conditions, the sunscreen in makeup yields an SPF of less than 4 (due to the relatively small amount applied) and wears away within a few hours to leave your skin fundamentally unprotected.

Use a dedicated sunscreen product as a moisturizer and forget the notion that SPF in makeup is photoprotective under real-world conditions — it can only provide a small amount of benefit supplementary to sunscreen only.

Tuesday, 22 September 2009

Does Topical Vitamin C and E Improve Melasma?

Does topical Vitamin C and E improve Melasma?


Does Topical Vitamin C and E Improve Melasma?

Yes, combinations of Vitamin C and E as you find in Skinceuticals CE Ferulic and IS Clinical C&E Serum Advance+ improve melasma, however not as quickly or as effectively as the hydroquinone you find in products such as Biomedic Conditioning Gel, La Roche-Posay Mela-D or DCL AHA Lightening Gel.

If you are prone to melasma, a product such as Skinceuticals CE Ferulic or IS Clinical C&E Serum Advance+ underneath sunscreen helps prevent recurrence better than sunscreen alone.

Sunday, 9 August 2009

Moisturizer for Firming Sagging Skin

Which moisturizers would help firm up sagging skin?


Moisturizer for Firming Sagging Skin

I recommend IS Clinical Firming Complex, Skinceuticals Skin Firming Cream and La Roche-Posay Redermic.

Tuesday, 22 September 2009

Bakel Collagen Firming Formula

Is Bakel Collagen Firming Formula effective?


Unfortunately this is just an expensive moisturizer (containing only glycerin, natto gum, panthenol). It would provide no bona-fide biological firming effect. I do not have a problem with products being expensive if they function as described, however nothing in this product is actually firming. To achieve actual firming your skin (rather than a superficial "tensor" effect on its surface) use products containing retinol, ascorbic acid and centella asiatica — all these are among the options which are vastly less expensive and are actually effective.

Effective retinol options include Biomedic Retinol and Skinceuticals Retinol. These are used at night.

Effective ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) products for firming are the serums made by Citrix, Skinceuticals, IS Clinical, Cellex-C and Obagi. Obagi is the most potent. These are used during the day underneath a anti-aging sunscreen such as Anthelios.

Good centella asiatica products are harder to find — I recommend Skinceuticals Skin Firming Cream and La Roche-Posay Redermic. These can be used as moisturizers.

La Roche-Posay Redermic UV combines sunscreen with Vitamin C and an extract of centella asiatica.

Tuesday, 22 September 2009

Skinceuticals Ferulic Acid

Are there any other products which contain ferulic acid other than the Skinceuticals options? I have sensitive skin which burns easily and Skinceuticals burns my skin.


There is a comparable amount of ferulic acid in Revaleskin products, which are generally more suitable for sensitive skin than Skinceuticals.

Sunday, 19 July 2009

Revaleskin for Oily Skin

Is Revaleskin suitable for oily skin?


Revaleskin for Oily Skin

This range is not suited to predominantly oily skin. If you would like to use an antioxidant product for oily skin, I suggest trying Citrix CRS, IS Clinical or Skinceuticals Phloretin CF.

Tuesday, 1 September 2009

New DCL Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50+

New DCL Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50+

DCL Dermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a broad-spectrum sunscreen and antioxidant with a sheer, matte finish.


This highly protective formulation blocks both UVA and UVB rays with Zinc Oxide 10.5% and Octinoxate 7.5% while antioxidants (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ubiquinone) neutralize age-accelerating free radicals.

Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50+'s silky, lightweight texture sets to a sheer, matte finish that never appears greasy or chalky (formulated with the latest microfine zinc).

Super Sheer Sunscreen is free of PABA and fragrances, making it suitable for all skin types.

DCL Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50+ is SPF 50+ and PA+++ (refers to a score of 16 in the PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening Test) currently used in Japan to help better assess a sunscreen's level of protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Tuesday, 4 August 2009

Heliocare Supplement

How much Heliocare does one need to take?


The Heliocare Supplement is an optional photoprotective antioxidant. The recommended dose is one capsule daily or two capsules for protection against prolonged direct sun exposure (in which case, take one in the morning and another by noon). It is not a replacement for sunscreen, it is an additional measure.

Tuesday, 14 July 2009

Dry, Mature Skin with Breakouts

My mature skin is dry and I have acne on my forehead! What can I use to bring this under control?


Dry, Mature Skin with Breakouts

If the problem is ongoing and limited to the forehead, you are most likely using a facial cleanser, moisturizer or sunscreen which is too rich (too emollient) for your skin.

Kinerase Clear Skin is a complete solution tailored to dry, mature skin with breakouts (adult acne) which works by both intensely hydrating, purifying and protecting skin.

You can also spot-treat the acne with a product like Skinceuticals Blemish Control Gel or use a deep-purifying mask with alpha-hydroxy acids such as Cellex-C Betaplex Clear Complexion Mask, 2-3 times a week.

Products containing lipohydroxy acid are also great at purifying (and rejuvenating) mature skin with breakouts because they are non-drying.

Keep in mind that if you continue to use skin care which is too rich for you, the breakouts will inevitably recur.

Saturday, 18 July 2009

Skinceuticals Active UV Defense

Is it true that Skinceuticals Active UV Defense is identical to Anthelios?


Skinceuticals Active UV Defense

Yes, Skinceuticals Active UV Defense and La Roche-Posay Anthelios 15 are actually the same formula, and are priced identically. Pro-Xylane is also found in formulas from both these brands. As far as I am aware, that is the extent of the duplication.

Saturday, 18 July 2009

How to Get Rid of Tide Mark on Neck

How can I get rid of the tide marks on my neck?! I hate them.


You can try generous applications of a high-concentration and emollient retinol product each evening, however make sure you start with only a small application every other night and build up your use slowly. Biomedic Retinol 60 is a good option. Make sure you use a sunscreen during the day. La Roche-Posay Redermic UV is a good sunscreen product for neck use and contains some worthwhile skin-firming and smoothing ingredients which will help protect and build on what you gain from the retinol.

For a faster but more temporary reduction in their appearance try an at-home peel such as Biomedic Pure Enzyme or Kinerase Instant Radiance Peel in the evening, and follow up with one of the more substantial moisturizers.

Moisturizers containing Pro-Xylane such as La Roche-Posay Substiane, Niacin such as Nia24 Skin Strengthening Complex and the Kinerase Pro+ products designated "ultra rich" all work well.

Saturday, 18 July 2009

Obagi C Serum vs Skin Ceuticals

Which of Obagi C Professional or Skin Ceuticals are better?


Obagi C Serum vs Skin Ceuticals

The Obagi Professional C Serums appear to deliver more Vitamin C to the skin and are more firming.

Obagi holds that their products provide greater antioxidant protection, however this has not been established as fact.

If you use the Obagi Professional C Serums, combine them with an additional antioxidant product such as RevaleSkin, Replenix or Glytone Vitaceutical Serum, to help broaden their antioxidant protection — antioxidant combinations are thought to work best and the Obagi Professional C Serums contain Vitamin C alone.

Sunday, 9 August 2009

How to Prevent Aging Hands

How can I prevent aging hands?


How to Prevent Aging Hands

All the advice for aging skin applies.

At minimum, apply a retinoid product at night. As hands tend to be dry, an emollient product like Biomedic Retinol 60 applied nightly is best. You can jump straight to the highest strength because the hands are not prone to great sensitivity from retinol.

During the day, use a long-lasting sunscreen which protects optimally against UVA (Anthelios SX).

For enhanced protection, you can apply an antioxidant to the hands during the day, underneath sunscreen.

Citrix CRS and Alyria Antioxidant Capsules are good options which will not discolor your nails.

All these steps help even out skin tone and texture and reduce any hyperpigmentation (age spots) with time.

Keep hands super-moisturized by applying hand cream, even if only a small amount, or sunscreen, after hand-washing.

Nia24 Sun-Damage Repair for Decolletage and Hands and Cellex-C Hydra Hand Cream are good hand creams which helps fade age spots and prevent further photodamage.

To help "plump" the skin, you can optionally spray them with SkinMedica TNS Body Mist before sunscreen or retinol use.

The mist may also be used in place of applying hand cream if you find it a hassle.

Saturday, 18 July 2009

Alternative to Skinceuticals AGE Interrupter

Is there a less expensive alternative to Skinceuticals AGE Interrupter?


Alternative to Skinceuticals AGE Interrupter

The main ingredients in Skinceuticals A.G.E. Interrupter are Pro-Xylane, Phytosphingosine and Blueberry Extract, which is an antioxidant claimed to be especially effective against glycation. This product also contains bismuth oxychloride which lends the skin a diffuse, radiant look.

The closest product would be La Roche-Posay Substiane, which also contains Pro-Xylane, albeit less, however this product has an emollient texture whereas Skinceuticals A.G.E. Interrupter has a unique "powdery" texture.

Worthwhile concentrations of Blueberry Extract can be found in all Obagi Elastiderm products and several IS Clinical formulas (such as IS Clinical Youth Complex, IS Clinical Active Serum and IS Clinical Poly-Vitamin Serum).

Saturday, 18 July 2009

Aggressive Antioxidant Serums for Face

Which are the most aggressive antioxidant serums for the face?


You don't want an antioxidant to irritate your skin as beneficial antioxidants work against inflammation therefore "aggressive" is undesirable if it equates with prolonged irritation.

If your skin is not sensitive, Prevage MD (containing 1% idebenone) has published data showing deep penetration into skin. For information on usage and adjustment to sensitive skin, see the Prevage MD Instructions for Use.

Thursday, 4 February 2010

Skinceuticals Eye Cream

Can you recommend an alternative to Skinceuticals Eye Cream? I like this product but it is too expensive for me at the moment.


Skinceuticals Eye Cream    Skinceuticals Eye Cream

La Roche-Posay Redermic Eyes is similar — it also contains an extract of centella asiatica called madecassoside, and also contains Vitamin C, so if you have been using Skinceuticals Eye Gel AOX+ underneath the Skinceuticals Eye Cream, you may also trial discontinuing it, although in this case less firming and protection of the under-eye area will occur. La Roche-Posay Redermic Eyes is compatible with Skinceuticals Eye Gel AOX+.

Sunday, 19 July 2009

Ascorbyl Palmitate vs Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate

Can you tell me whether Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is better than Ascorbyl Palmitate?


There is no longer any question that Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is superior to Ascorbyl Palmitate.

Moreover ascorbyl palmitate does not appear to be significantly effective against photodamage and some research dermatologists have questioned its safety.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate has replaced Ascorbyl Palmitate in N.V. Perricone "Ester-C" products.

Ascorbyl palmitate is only found in considerable concentrations in Jan Marini C-ESTA.

Higher concentrations of Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate are found primarily in SkinMedica skin care products.

SkinMedica Dermal Repair Cream contains 10% Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate.

The most potent form of Vitamin C is ascorbic acid, however it has a tendency to be irritating.

Saturday, 18 July 2009

Biomedic Cleansing Gel for Acne

Which of the Biomedic Cleansing Gels are suitable for acne?


Biomedic Cleansing Gel for Acne

There are several which help — Biomedic LHA Cleansing Gel, Biomedic Purifying Cleanser and Biomedic Anti-Bac Acne Wash.

Biomedic Anti-Bac Acne Wash is the one most useful if you have very active acne.

If your acne is only very mild, Biomedic LHA Cleansing Gel is a better option.

Saturday, 18 July 2009

Ti-Silc GT Sunblock — Antioxidants

Does Ti-Silc GT Sunblock contain any worthwhile antioxidants?


Ti-Silc GT Sunblock — Antioxidants

Ti-Silc GT Sunblock SPF 60 contains a substantial concentration of green tea (what the "GT" stands for) [ingredients] which has been shown to be photoprotective (helps prevent photoaging).

Replenix Anti-Photoaging Sunscreen is similar.

The green tea in both these sunscreens confers a light beige tint which largely vanishes on the skin.

If you have very dark skin the tint may be obvious, otherwise they will be fine.

Sunday, 19 July 2009

Obagi Blue Peel Safety

Is the Obagi Blue Peel safe for all skin types?


Obagi Blue Peel Safety

Obagi's Blue Peel TCA (tri-chloro-acetic acid) method gives physicians greater control over the chemical peeling process, however all TCA peels carry risks.

Your practitioner can advise you as to your individual risk of adverse effects.

Saturday, 18 July 2009

Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Can you recommend a good sunscreen for oily skin? I've tried many and they all suffocate my skin. I am sick of looking shiny so my skin can be protected from aging.


Sunscreen for Oily Skin

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid has been a revelation for patients with oily skin.

Finally they have not just an optimal sunscreen solution, but one which includes antioxidants (Cell-Ox Shield), is reasonably priced and a pleasure to use.

Despite providing the highest UVA (PFA 26) and UVB (SPF 60) protection, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid has a fresh, tonic and "airy" after-finish.

It leaves the skin both matte and radiant.

The Senna Alata extract in this product may contribute to the sunscreen's skin-brightening effect.

According to La Roche-Posay, one Anthelios Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid is sold every 15 seconds.

Tuesday, 14 July 2009

Using Skinceuticals Phloretin CF in place of Skinceuticals Eye Gel AOX+

Using Skinceuticals Phloretin CF in place of Skinceuticals Eye Gel AOX+

If you do not have a sensitive eye area prone to dehydration, or have used Skinceuticals Eye Gel AOX+ before without experiencing burning or stinging, you can use trial using Skinceuticals Phloretin CF (which contains flavonoids) in place of Skinceuticals Eye Gel AOX+.

If you can make this alteration, you'll see enhanced results from Skinceuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex.

Tuesday, 14 July 2009

Skinceuticals CE Ferulic vs. Skinceuticals C+AHA

Can I combine Skinceuticals Serums? I am already using Skinceuticals CE Ferulic but would like to use glycolic acid which I notice is found in Skinceuticals C+AHA.


Skinceuticals CE Ferulic versus     Skinceuticals C+AHA

There is merit in using these two Skinceuticals antioxidant serums together or in alternation, particularly if you have combination skin or a tendency toward uneven skin texture.

Skinceuticals C+AHA contains zinc sulfate and bioflavonoids which are useful antioxidants absent from Skinceuticals CE Ferulic.

The glycolic and lactic acid in Skinceuticals C+AHA are skin-resurfacing agents which also increase the penetration of the Vitamin C for greater antioxidant protection.

Therefore I do not believe Skinceuticals CE Ferulic can be presumed more beneficial than Skinceuticals C+AHA.

If you would like to use both, apply the Skinceuticals C+AHA underneath the Skinceuticals CE Ferulic and reduce your use of Skinceuticals CE Ferulic by half.

To judge the difference in performance accurately, make sure you persist with any skin care changes you make for at least 4 months.

Thursday, 23 July 2009

Cellex-C vs. Skinceuticals

What is the difference between Cellex-C and Skinceuticals? Which one is better?


Cellex-C

Cellex-C

Cellex-C and Skinceuticals were created by some of the same co-operative research dermatologists and chemists (Drs. Sheldon Pinnell, Omar Mostafa, Steven S. Traikovich, Jan Zielinski), with Cellex-C being the original creation.

Skinceuticals C and E

In the past, the Cellex-C formulations may have provided superior antioxidant protection compared with those of Skinceuticals because they contained more diverse antioxidant combinations, however both manufacturers now feature "broad-spectrum" antioxidants.

Skinceuticals claim their most photoprotective antioxidants are Skinceuticals CE Ferulic and Phloretin CF.

Cellex-C claim their superior antioxidant is Advanced-C Serum.

Further complicating matters, IS Clinical holds that IS Super Serum Advance+ is superior, and Obagi that even one of their 10% Vitamin C serums readily outperforms Skinceuticals' 20% serum.

Cellex-C use tyrosine, zinc and bioflavonoids in all their Vitamin C Serums whereas no Skinceuticals Serums contain tyrosine and only some contain zinc.

The use of tyrosine is protected by a Cellex-C patent.

Medical literature states that when tyrosine is combined with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) it helps to promote regeneration of new connective tissue through the stimulation of fibroblasts enabling them to make more collagen.

A study co-authored by Skinceuticals' Dr. Sheldon Pinnell holds that zinc is an important and neglected antioxidant for skin.

Interestingly, zinc sulphate was a part of the original Skinceuticals C+E formula but was removed from the "new and improved" Skinceuticals CE Ferulic.

Zinc has been shown to help support increased collagen turnover stimulated by ascorbic acid — it is an essential component of collagenase, which is required to dismantle old, defective and stiffened collagen in order for new collagen to be constructed.

Cellex-C

If more types of antioxidants are better than less, it could be that Cellex-C Advanced C Serum is the most optimal antioxidant — it contains five diverse antioxidants (l-ascorbic acid, zinc, resveratrol, pycnogenol and L-ergothioneine) and contains tyrosine, as opposed to Skinceuticals CE Ferulic's three (ascorbic acid, ferulic acid and Vitamin E) without tyrosine or zinc.

My general impression is that Skinceuticals CE Ferulic is less firming and gentler than the original Skinceuticals C+E formula, and also less firming than the current Cellex-C High-Potency Serum or Cellex-C Advanced-C Serum.

However it is not possible to know without comparative studies which is the superior antioxidant.

Skinceuticals CE Ferulic has been shown to provide a remarkable 8x endogenous photoprotection — no studies into the photoprotection offered by Cellex-C Vitamin C Serums have been published.

There are many grounds on which to consider the many skin care brands available.

I do not believe you will ever find a brand which is "best" — I suggest you use more than one brand for greater benefit and reduced cost.

You can also do your own comparative study by using Cellex-C Advanced-C Serum for at least 4 months and then switching to Skinceuticals CE Ferulic for another 4 months.

At minimum, use a good sunscreen during the day and an effective retinoid in the evening, and forego the brand concern.

If you do try either or both, please let us know at Derm Net Discussions — reviews from genuine and informed users would be helpful to all concerned and are lacking despite the heavy use of these products.

Sunday, 19 July 2009

What is Octyl Salicylate?

What is Octyl Salicylate?


Octyl Salicylate is a chemical sunscreen bearing semblance to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid).

Sunday, 21 June 2009

Little Bumps on The Hand/Between Fingers

I get bumps on my hands which cover my palms and the spaces between my fingers. They are filled with clear liquid and eventually become dry and scaly.


You will need to consult with a dermatologist — the condition you describe gives the impression of being dyshidrotic eczema, a recurrent dermatitis.

Monday, 9 November 2009

Jan Marini vs. Skinceuticals

Could you please tell me whether Jan Marini is better than Skinceuticals or the other way around? I have been doing research for hours and cannot make head nor tail of them.


Skinceuticals     Jan Marini

Skinceuticals provides superior photoprotective antioxidants and sunscreens, however these have been problematic among patients with extremely sensitive skin.

There are many grounds on which to consider the many skin care brands available.

I do not believe you will ever find a product range which is "best" — I suggest you use more than one brand for greater benefit and reduced cost.

At minimum, use a good sunscreen during the day and an effective retinoid in the evening, and forego the brand concern.

Sunday, 19 July 2009

Kinerase vs. Retin-A / Renova

Is Kinerase really as effective as Retin-A?


Kinerase is gentler than any prescription retinoid yet still has a considerable beneficial effect on the appearance of wrinkles (also see the Kinerase Results Chart) however it is not a replacement for prescription retinoids if you are able to use them.

Kinerase and Retin-A are compatible whereas some skin care products cannot be used at the same time as retinoids like Renova, therefore you can consider using both to greater effect than either alone.

Kinerase assists healthy barrier function and skin barrier repair, which is compromised by retinoid use.

Thursday, 23 July 2009

Topical Solutions for Broken Capillaries on The Nose

Broken Capillaries on the Face (Severe)

I need to find a topical solution to eliminate broken capillaries on the nose. Which product can I use for this problem?


A vascular laser is the only reliable means by which to treat broken capillaries on the nose.

You can use products containing a combination of ascorbic acid and bioflavonoids such as IS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum and/or products containing caffeine such as RevaleSkin with Coffeeberry, Replenix Serum Caffeine Fortified or La Roche Posay Rosaliac to help reduce redness and, together with sunscreen, to reduce the likelihood of continued breakage.

Monday, 22 June 2009

Large Pores Getting Larger Over Time

My pores are already large and seem to be getting larger over time. I have oily skin which still breaks out even though I am 46. Is there anything relatively easy I can do to make my open pores smaller?


The visibility of facial "open pores" can be attributed to genetics, unsuitable skin care, environmental factors and stress.

Visibly large open pores are one of the most recalcitrant aesthetic concerns to treat, often requiring a combination of modalities.

I recommend using a facial cleanser or toner containing salicylic acid or lipohydroxy acid once or twice daily, such as Glycolix Gly/Sal 5-2 Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Effaclar Toner Astringent Lotion and a retinoid such as Biomedic Retinol or Skinceuticals Retinol in the evening.

Always use an oil-control sunscreen such as La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid during the day when using products containing salicylic acid, lipohydroxy acid or retinol as part of a solution to reduce the increasing appearance of large pores.

Pleasingly, all these options also reduce and prevent photodamage symptoms.

Sunday, 21 June 2009

Make-Up for Very Red Skin

My skin becomes red at the drop of the hat. What sort of makeup can I use to cover the redness without irritating my skin even more or making it heavy with camouflage?


You may have allergic skin or rosacea.

If the underlying condition(s) causing your redness have been addressed, you can use a moisturizer containing green tint and caffeine to optically counteract redness and reduce irritation.

Two good options include La Roche Posay Rosaliac (which contains added green tint) or Replenix Caffeine-Fortified Serum or Cream (which are naturally green due to their high — c. 90% — concentration of Green Tea).

Apply a mineral make up such as Colorescience or Jane Iredale and set with a soothing/protective thermal spring water spray such as Avene Thermal Spring Water Spray or La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water.

This combination will allow you to both mask redness and reduce irritation without thick makeup.

Sunday, 21 June 2009

Starting to Manage Extremely Oily Skin

I have extremely oily skin. I can barely go a few hours before looking incredibly shiny. Makeup practically slips off my face. Summer or winter, makes next to no difference.


Avoid products which aren't intended especially for oily skin — products for combination skin are going to be generally unsuitable.

There are an increasing number of products available for extremely oily skin.

If your skin isn't sensitive, use skin care products containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid and retinol to help reduce excess oiliness.

Obviously you don't want to use a moisturizer.

Add OC Eight Professional Mattifying Gel to your daily skin care.

You can also dust the skin with a sunscreen brush such as Colorescience Sunforgettable or Colorescience Invisibly Matte Finishing Powder to mattify your skin and refresh its sun protection.

Monday, 30 March 2009

Cleanser for Teenage Skin with Whiteheads

Cleanser for Teenage Skin with Whiteheads

Please recommend a facial cleanser for my 14 yr old son.

He has minimal breakouts and some white heads on his nose.


Biomedic Antibac Acne Wash contains salicylic and lactic acids which work to clear pores of debris, helping prevent and treat whiteheads.

Tuesday, 29 January 2008

The Dangers of Solariums — Delivering 5x The UV of The Midday Sun

Features melanoma patient Clare Oliver, Associate Professor Grant MacArthur of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Louise White of the Emily Tapp Melanoma Foundation, Craig Sinclair of the Cancer Council of Victoria, Body Bronze CEO Scott Meneilly.

Monday, 15 June 2009

Beauty Product Consumers like Old Sailors (The Old Sailor, by A. A. Milne)

Beauty Product Consumers like Old Sailors (The Old Sailor, by A. A. Milne)

Beauty product consumers like Old Sailors ... never starting in the right place, never finishing what is begun, producing aging in the name of anti-aging for no good reason at all.


There was once an old sailor my grandfather knew
Who had so many things which he wanted to do
That, whenever he thought it was time to begin,
He couldn't because of the state he was in.

He was shipwrecked, and lived on a island for weeks,
And he wanted a hat, and he wanted some breeks;
And he wanted some nets, or a line and some hooks
For the turtles and things which you read of in books.

And, thinking of this, he remembered a thing
Which he wanted (for water) and that was a spring;
And he thought that to talk to he'd look for, and keep
(If he found it) a goat, or some chickens and sheep.

Then, because of the weather, he wanted a hut
With a door (to come in by) which opened and shut
(With a jerk, which was useful if snakes were about),
And a very strong lock to keep savages out.

He began on the fish-hooks, and when he'd begun
He decided he couldn't because of the sun.
So he knew what he ought to begin with, and that
Was to find, or to make, a large sun-stopping hat.

He was making the hat with some leaves from a tree,
When he thought, "I'm as hot as a body can be,
And I've nothing to take for my terrible thirst;
So I'll look for a spring, and I'll look for it first."

Then he thought as he started, "Oh, dear and oh, dear!
I'll be lonely tomorrow with nobody here!"
So he made in his note-book a couple of notes:
"I must first find some chickens" and "No, I mean goats."

He had just seen a goat (which he knew by the shape)
When he thought, "But I must have a boat for escape.
But a boat means a sail, which means needles and thread;
So I'd better sit down and make needles instead."

He began on a needle, but thought as he worked,
That, if this was an island where savages lurked,
Sitting safe in his hut he'd have nothing to fear,
Whereas now they might suddenly breathe in his ear!

So he thought of his hut ... and he thought of his boat,
And his hat and his breeks, and his chickens and goat,
And the hooks (for his food) and the spring (for his thirst) ...
But he never could think which he ought to do first.

And so in the end he did nothing at all,
But basked on the shingle wrapped up in a shawl.
And I think it was dreadful the way he behaved -
He did nothing but bask until he was saved!


6/10/08 — Skin Care Failure: Do Everything At Once / Never Complete A Single Treatment.

Friday, 20 July 2007

Choice vs. Need - Information Asymmetry In Skin Care

The skin care marketplace is one of artificially inflated choice.

Despite the huge number of products on the market, for most people the potential for effective skin therapy is as limited as ever.

Consumers need to choose products carefully, or not at all, if they want to avoid being duped.

Choice vs. Need - Information Asymmetry In Skin Care

If you're interested in seeing measurable improvements in your skin and "anti-aging" that goes beyond the words on a jar, its worth taking some time to understand some of the reasons why so many products and brands can exist in the face of such poor results and such high prices:

  • Large skin care companies, particularly those tied to luxury brands, have more influence over the marketplace than consumers or dermatologists. How do you know the latest cream at the department store/beauty salon is currently the most effective at achieving a particular outcome?

    The bottom line: you don't. There's too many products, too much double-talk, and too much pressure to purchase.

  • Countless old, overpriced or otherwise inferior products remain on the market because they're already ubiquitous. Interest in these products is primarily driven by mass media advertisement. They've never been trialled in medical journals or integrated in professional dermatological practice for good reasons, nor will they ever be.

    The bottom line: most people never get to experience skin treatment with measurable effects. They're left in the dark.

The solution, not surprisingly, is to arm yourself with knowledge and to go the route of accountable channels.

Above all else, avoid any retailer that sells anything and everything they can get their hands on, particularly if they're selling products with very different "brand philosophies."

Pleasantly, there's an upside to the cosmetics manufacturer/cosmetics buyer power imbalance: cost.

Superior products are generally cheaper due to their comparatively miniscule marketing costs.

The downside: a lot of people have already been defrauded by dishonest manufacturers and retailers.

Once bitten, twice shy, they're either unlikely to risk any further experimentation, or continue to willfully waste their skin's future by indulging in gimmicks like oxygen skin care, Paula Begoun, face bras and chirality.

Melbourne Dermatology aims to assist people in avoiding the dreck of skin care.

Monday, 3 March 2008

Core Principles of Effective Skin Care and Treatment

Any skin care management and treatment protocol must satisfy a number of criteria if it is to offer the potential for a therapeutic and desirable outcome.

Putting it another way, regimens of skin care which do not pass these basic standards offer only limited and temporary, cosmetic changes in skin's appearance, and over time encourage and secure the overall permanent deterioration commonly referred to as premature skin aging.

Core Principles of Effective Skin Care and Treatment

Managed proactively and with a preference for sound formulas grounded in reality, the skin need not age considerably beyond the age of 25.

Effective Skin Care Criteria

Any skin care management and treatment protocol must provide:

  1. A means of regularly and non-abrasively removing the useless dead skin cells and wastes which are at the root of many everyday skin complaints. Get rid of compacted dead cells the right way and watch your skin start to thrive. Just as regularly mowing a lawn helps prevent irregular grass growth (coarse texture, wrinkles), colour (hyperpigmentation, freckles, age spots), uneven wetting (dry skin, oily skin) and weeds (open pores, blackheads, acne), appropriate, effective exfoliation and cleansing are the opening tenets of all meaningful skin maintenance, treatment or rejuvenation protocols.

  2. A means of enhancing the skin's declined functions, if any. By the time most people seek treatment, they will require skin firming, immunity re-building or otherwise stimulating topicals to help revert their skin to more youthful behaviour. Women now also have the option of topical skin care which replaces declining levels of female hormones.

  3. A means of protecting the skin's functions which are presently trouble-free, and protecting the progress and health of those which are being rebuilt. This refers in the first instance to antioxidant and true broad spectrum sunscreen usage at all times of the year during the day, but also to the avoidance of skin care products not derived from an understanding of cellular functioning. The body seeks to eliminate non-native ingredients because they are at odds with its chemisty and this process is associated with aging and allergic reactions, be they outwardly visible or not.

  4. Twice daily maintenance. Just like brushing teeth only once a day still leads to cavities, skin care and treatment protocols which are haphazardly followed produce extremely limited results. In fact, some anti-aging and skin resurfacing programs will produce adverse results if not followed correctly.

All four elements must be used in concert.


View the skin care products and topics updated within the last 7 days.


 File Skin Care for reference.

February 2010

Injuv

Polyphenols

Kinerase Pro+ C8 Peptide Intensive Treatment with Kinetin and Zeatin

January 2010

La Roche-Posay Redermic

December 2009

Anti-Aging Sunscreen Reminders

November 2009

Complimentary Shipping

The Sun

Zinc: An Important Antioxidant for Skin

La Roche-Posay Derm AOX

Biomedic Potent-C 10.5 Concentrate

Tocotrienols

Skinceuticals Pigment Regulator

SkinMedica Retinol Complex

October 2009

The Connection Between Oxidative Stress and Aging

Definition of Oxidative Stress

Sources of Free Radical Damage

Ozone

Obagi Professional C Ingredients

Citrix Antioxidant Body Lotion

September 2009

Tricomin

Erythema from Retinoids

Carnosine

Interleukin-6 (IL-6)

Asiaticoside vs. Madecassoside for Collagen Synthesis

New Elta MD UV Clear SPF 46

New DCL Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50+

PCA pHaze 16+ C-Strength 20%

Arginine and Serine

Chrysin

August 2009

Glytone Lipo-Lift Serum

Ergothioneine

Ubiquinone (Co-Enzyme Q-10)

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid

Polymorphous Light Eruption

Saccharomyces Ferment (Filtrate Lysate)

La Roche-Posay Effaclar AI Intensive Acne Spot Treatment

New Skinceuticals Retexturing Activator

New Vivite Defining Lip Plumper

Neova Advanced Essential Lash

July 2009

Ceramide 3

Oxido Reductases

Cellex-C vs. Skinceuticals

D-Tocopheryl Glucoside

Human Fibroblast Conditioned Media

Kinerase Pro+ Therapy Advanced Radiance Facial Peel

June 2009

Pentapeptides Ineffective

ReVivé Peau Magnifique

Madecassoside

Natural/Organic Instinct Products Contain Unlisted + Mislabelled Chemicals

Neutrogena Amber Bar Sculpture

La Roche-Posay, Vienne, France

Obagi Rosaclear

May 2009

Myristyl Nicotinate

Topical Myristyl Nicotinate Creams

Oxofulleram

Benefits of Mexoryl SX

New Anthelios 60 Sunscreens

Anthelios SX Daily Moisturizer

RevaleSkin CoffeeBerry Kit

April 2009

Biomedic Facial Shield SPF 20

IS Clinical Peptides

Skin Care for Dry Body Skin

Site Upgrades and Updates

March 2009

Safety of Micronized Zinc Sunscreens

Kinetin

RevaleSkin — CoffeeBerry Extract

Glycation

Biomedic Collagenist Powder

p53 Protein Expression

Photoprotective (UVB) Salen-Manganese Complex (EUK-134)

Clinique Medical Skin Care (Newly Available)

February 2009

The Ultraviolet Garden

Georges Seurat

January 2009

Afirm Pure Retinol (Newly Available)

RevaleSkin Coffeeberry (Newly Available)

SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter

December 2008

Oxidative Stress/Damage Theory of Aging Disproven by Study

Safety Concerns Over High-Tech (Nanotechnology) Sunscreens

Shortcomings of Avobenzone

Why Protect Against UVA Exposure?

Flawed Skin Analogy: The M.D. Formulations Onion

In Summary: Oxidation/Reduction and Tanning

Collagen Protects Brain from Alzheimer’s Disease

November 2008

New — MD Rx Antioxidant Hair Replenishing Mist

MD Rx Antioxidant Hair Replenishing Mist Ingredients

Algorithm for Optimal Sustained Exfoliation: Glycolic Acid

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate replaces Ascorbyl Palmitate in N.V. Perricone Products

Phloretin

Skinceuticals Phloretin C F Press Release

October 2008

Joan Crawford's Deleterious Facial Cleansing Protocol

Bakel Skin Care

Cytotoxicity of Lavender Oil and its Major Components to Human Skin Cells

Do Everything At Once / Never Complete A Single Treatment

Beauty Product Consumers like Old Sailors (The Old Sailor, by A. A. Milne)

Hostile Marital Interactions, Proinflammatory Cytokine Production, and Wound Healing

Nicholas Perricone: Sugar is Primarily Responsible for Inflammation

Yucca Whipplei — Gentle Deep-Cleansing Natural Saponins

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