ZO Skin Health asked:


In City Slickers, Mitch (Billy Crystal) thought about his 39th birthday, and told his boss—”did you ever reach a point in your life when you say to yourself, this is the best I’m ever going to look; this is the best that I’m ever going to feel, this is the best that I’m ever going to do, and it ain’t that great?”  Mid-life crisis happens to the best of us.   I see many people who confront the same realities.  But while they may be looking in the mirror, they’re not looking hard enough.  So let’s face the facts.

Wrinkles happen.  Gray hair happens.  Age spots happen.  It’s all treatable.  My wife is 46; she has never looked more beautiful. Now that our three kids are teenagers, she has more time to care of herself.   Her inner beauty comes through.  

Look in the mirror.  You already know that what’s really important and vital isn’t visible on the surface.   Your mother already told you that.  But here’s something that maybe you don’t know.

The same is true with your skin.  The cells that are visible on the surface of your skin are all dead—they’re has been’s.  Yesterday’s news.  They’ve served their purpose; they’re useless now. The cells that are really important  reside deep in the epidermis and the dermis,  way beneath the surface.  It’s there that the skin cells renew themselves and produce collagen and elastin, which give your skin its elasticity, firmness and vitality.  Keep those skin cells active, and functioning, and your wrinkles will diminish.  But if you use products that treat only the surface of the skin, your skin cells will go dormant, and fail to produce the youth-sustaining proteins that it needs to restore a smooth, firm, even-toned complexion.  That’s why I’m an advocate of high concentrations of active Vitamin A, also known as retinol and retinoic acid.  It works beneath the surface of the skin to activate and stimulate your skin cells.

Just remember, with your emotional health, and with your skin health, treat what is on the inside, and the outside will take care of itself.

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ZO Skin Health asked:


When you’re in debt, a financial advisor will advise how to pay off creditors, based on which debts are most costly and damaging.  After you prioritize your credit problems, you can knock them out accordingly.    But if you’re concerned about wrinkles, and you know you can’t expect to solve all of your problems overnight, where do you start?  Should you avoid sunshine and UV damage, reduce stress, change your diet, quit smoking and/or drinking, use better (or more!) skincare products, eat foods rich in anti-oxidants, take nutriceuticals, stay hydrated, exercise, have more *******?   Taking good care of your skin isn’t your only priority, so let’s address the biggest problems and worst offenders, and then face the facts.

* 1 UV exposure.  This one is the real culprit of aging.  UVB rays cause burning, but  UVA rays, which penetrate the skin more deeply, cause wrinkles, loss of elasticity and photoaging.  You’re exposed to UVA rays even when you’re inside—about 90% of UVA rays are transmitted through ordinary glass and windshields.  Wear sunscreen (like Oclipse SPF 30) every day, and use skincare products high in anti-oxidants.

· 2  Wake up your skin cells.  Dormant skin cells exacerbate all of the signs of aging.  You need to activate and stimulate them with high concentrations of retinol, which is generally considered the best topical anti-aging ingredient.

· 3.  Kick the sugar habit.  Too much of the sweet stuff—either as sugar or as fructose– is the most common cause of glycation and inflammation. It binds to collagen, weakens it, and then induces sagging and wrinkles. Too much sugar will also reduce skin circulation and damage the texture.

· 4.  Stay hydrated.  Drinking 8 glasses of water/day is important for digestion, circulation and excretion.  For skincare, you need even more than that, especially after reaching age 40.   Water helps hydrate the skin (thereby disguising wrinkles), flushes toxins from the skin (reducing acne), reduces dark circles underneath the eyes, and reduces eczema and psoriasis. And it’s free!

· 5.  Huff and puff.  Cardio-vascular exercise is  good for your skin.    It improves the circulation and delivers nutrients to the skin.  Plus it makes you feel better about yourself, and the radiance shines through.  

· 6.  Relax.  Being divorced, a single parent, employed (or unemployed!), a caregiver for an elderly parent can all increase stress, and that stress can cause or exacerbate a blotchy complexion, blemises, dullness and acne and rosacea flare-ups.   It’s impossible to eliminate stress,  but you should help reduce it.  Find time for yourself, exercise, get 7 hours of sleep a night, enjoy friends, practice yoga—whatever works for you.

· 7.  Eat a healthy diet, rich in anti-oxidants and Omega-3’s.  It’s the perfect excuse to have an ounce of dark chocolate.   



Peels, laser treatments, Botox and fillers may be an option, but they shouldn’t be your first choice.  What you do every day, how you treat your skin every night may make medical procedures unnecessary.

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David Wilson asked:


Good health reflects on skin and a good skin can be achieved by healthy eating and right beauty treatment. There are hundreds of skin health products available in the market today to confuse you with their tall claims. Choosing the right skin care product is vital as it assists in grooming our persona. Elemis skin care offers excellent therapeutic products for both normal and sensitive skin treatment.

While choosing a skin care product, you should be able to determine which product addresses the major issues of your skin and verify its constituents. Elemis skin care products extend their usability from dealing with anti-ageing problems to helping in your daily skin care regime. Its daily skin care products include cleansers and toners, skin treatment masks and other therapeutic products.

Using cleanser and toners helps you to remove the day’s dirt from your face and clean the skin pores. They help you retain a glowing skin. Elemis cleansers are made of plant extracts and have a soothing natural effect on your skin tone. Protecting your skin from damaging sun rays is extremely essential. Elemis skin moisturizers act as sun block with its formulated ingredients holding the moisture for your skin. This daily treatment improves your skin health and helps maintaining it.

Exfoliation is an integrated part of your skin care routine. Dead cells make your complexion look dull and dry. Elemis skin care mask help cleanse these dead cells and hydrate the skin for a long-lasting youthfulness. It helps to repair the damaged skin with a deeper cleansing and rejuvenating process.

Skin health is one of the important aspects of personal hygiene and grooming. With a plethora of skin care products flooding the market, it is highly recommended to perform proper research before selecting a skin care product for your use!

ZO Skin Health asked:


etimes amused by women who tell me that they have  “sensitive” skin—like it’s a badge of honor, proof-positive of their femininity. The classic symptoms: diffuse redness, irritation, especially in the T-zone tingling, tightening, dryness and flakiness reaction or discomfort to procedures or products—shaving, waxing, cosmetics blotchiness, swelling, edema, which sometimes can advance to rosacea

In fact, it’s a sign of weakness, and it’s sometimes caused by the use—or overuse of the wrong products, particularly moisturizers. It seems antithetical—a moisturizer was probably the first product that you used on your skin—and the one you trusted and used most frequently— but it could also be the one that harms and ages your skin the most—either accelerating skin aging, or inducing skin sensitivity.

With young and healthy skin, the cells in the dermis collect water from the food we eat and water we drink, and deliver that water to the surface of the skin. It’s a natural part of cellular nourishment and repair. That’s why it’s so important that we keep skin cells active and functioning normally. But when you apply a moisturizer to hydrate and plump the skin, the skin cells in the epidermis send a message to the cells in the dermis: slow down, we’re fat and happy up here. That causes the cells in the dermis to become lazy, go dormant, and the skin becomes drier, thinner and less elastic. At that point, the skin is compromised, and begins to lose its ability to function as a natural and protective barrier. That induces sensitivity and leads to redness, irritation, wrinkling and accelerated aging.

Crazy as it seems, moisturizers—which supposedly are calming and soothing—are frequently just the opposite. If you’re going to use a moisturizer, use one that suppresses irritation, that calms the skin, that contains some retinol to awaken dormant cells. And don’t ever use a moisturizer to the exclusion of products that activate and stimulate your skin.

Kick the moisturizer habit. Make sure that your skin is rejuvenating and repairing itself. It’s one of the best strategies for well-nourished, healthy skin.

PS For those people who are “hooked on moisturizers”, separately we can talk about the best times and places to apply it.

Zein Obagi, MD

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ZO Skin Health asked:


Asians have flawless skin. At least that’s what the rest of the world thinks. But let’s FACE THE FACTS. That impeccable skin doesn’t come naturally. For many, it takes dedication.

First, let’s look at the plus side—and the first one is a big, big plus—especially up until age 30. Asians are the envy of women around the world because they look younger than their actual age. Asian skin generally contains more melanin, so photo-aging is not a significant problem. They like a fair, even-tone complexion, so they avoid sun exposure, and their skin is less prone to the tell-tale signs of aging—like wrinkling and sagging.

But Asian skin also has its problems:

Sensitivity

Asian skin is susceptible to discoloration from UV rays, hormonal changes, hot water, saunas, and steam. Asian skin also reacts badly to the use of some skin care products, moisturizers, fragrances and acne—all of which can result in skin reactions, scarring and increased pigmentation. Try to avoid those products and/or conditions that cause problems, and begin sun protection at an early age. Look out for ingredients like ammonia and arnia and sodium lauryl sulfate, especially if they appear at or near the top of the ingredient list. If these ingredients are used in minute amounts (toward the bottom of the list), they may not be problematic.

Pigmentation

Because Asian skin produces more melanin, it has a built-in SPF that helps reduce sun- burns, but this melanin also causes more discoloration. Even though the skin may appear to be light, the melanin may reside in the deeper layers of the skin. This excess melanin can induce pigmentation problems—including sun spots, dark patches, and deep discoloration that is resistant to treatment. Dark spots on the cheeks usually begin to appear in the 30’s and 40’s, although they can also appear earlier. Unfortunately, traditional ways of treating these pigmentation problems (IPL, photorejuvenation, light chemical peels and microdermabrasion) frequently are not effective, and may, in fact, cause the pigmentation to worsen.

Apply broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, rain or shine, and whether you’re indoors or out (UVA rays penetrate windows). Not only will you reduce the risk of skin cancer, you will also help reduce the incidence of pigmentation problems.

Oiliness/Acne

Asian skin tends to have unstable sebaceous glands. Sometimes that excess sebum production leads to discoloration and scarring. Proper care and oil-free moisturizers will help. Avoid products made with mineral oil—it’s the oil most commonly found in skincare products. It’s also important to avoid the use of cleansers that contain alcohol, as that may cause skin to produce even more oil. And don’t make the mistake of using overly harsh cleansers (look out for ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate ) as these detergents can be very damaging.

The best way to treat all of these problems—sensitivity, pigmentation and acne—is by stimulating the skin to rejuvenate itself and expedite cellular renewal. All of my product lines are based on this philosophy. Sometimes, in more advanced cases, problem skin will require medical treatment and downtime.

Dr. Obagi is a pioneer in the treatment of Asian skin and has lectured and traveled extensively throughout Asia, training dermatologists and plastic surgeons. He owns and operates a practice in San Gabriel, CA (626.288.5115) with a staff fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese. His main office is in Beverly Hills, CA.

Zein Obagi, MD

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ZO Skin Health asked:


It’s an urban myth that skin goes to sleep at night. So let’s FACE THE FACTS.

There are a lot of reasons why skincare products need to be applied at night. In fact, it can be easily argued that nighttime products are more important than daytime, because that’s when the skin repairs itself.

During the day, skin is bombarded with wind, makeup, pollution, sweating, and all of this exhausts the cells. Why? Because the sole purpose of skin is to protect our bodies from outside insults and contaminants. So during the daytime, the skin is busy defending itself from these environmental factors. That’s why, during the day, we apply products that strengthen, hydrate and protect with skin with antioxidants (topically and systemically) and UV protectors. At night, it’s ready to get ready for another day. That’s the time when the cells renew themselves and need to be activated with key ingredients like retinol; surface repair agents, such as ceramides; and anti-inflammatory agents, such as botanicals. These all work together to create skin that is brighter, more even-toned, and hydrated.

So nighttime products are different from daytime products, because the skin’s needs are different. Many active ingredients in skincare products have a relatively short life, and are deactivated by sunlight. So the really important ingredients—the really good stuff—is rendered useless. So by nighttime, there’s no residual value. Products need to be reapplied. During the daytime skincare products are rubbed off, sweated off, washed off, wiped off. Or they’re completely absorbed. Moisturizers last only 3-4 hours. Medical treatments require application 2-3 times every 24 hours. I’m a proponent of saturating the skin with active and powerful ingredients so that it’s nourished throughout the day and night. Nighttime products are heavier, to restore essential moisture, reduce wrinkles and repair the skin. They provide what we call barrier protection—to prevent transepidermal water loss (dehydration). Then in the morning, your skin is supple, revitalized and smooth. The active ingredients used in nighttime products are better able to stimulate and up-regulate cell turnover so that fresher, brighter, healthier skin can emerge. Nighttime is a perfect opportunity for controlled release of active ingredients over a 4-6 hour period. It is also a good time to layer products which may not be possible during the daytime if makeup is to be applied overtop. Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the importance of cleansing as a part of a night- time skincare program. Many people, I’m convinced, take the short-cut of not removing their make-up before retiring. Our faces are never covered, they’re always exposed to all kinds of environmental pollutants. Cleanse your skin, faithfully and thoroughly to remove the dirt and surface oils. It’s important for everyone, but critical for women who wear cosmetics. Sounds a bit extreme, I know, but you may even want to do it twice. It’s that important.

You may be tired, you may be stressed. But nighttime skincare is important. And it only takes a minute.

Zein Obagi, MD

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ZO Skin Health asked:


h century retailing tycoon, John Wanamaker, said “half of my advertising doesn’t work. I just don’t know which half.”

The odds are even worse in skin care products–the creams and lotions that claim to clear, lift, firm, tighten, and correct your complexion. Less than 50% of the products you put on your face actually help you look younger. Fewer than that are worth what you pay for them.

Why are skin care products so confusing? Why is there so little brand loyalty? Part of the problem is that the last 20 years have brought a tsunami of new skin care products, new ads, new claims. The splashy advertising, the celebrities and the offers combine to produce instant hype. Every new product promises a new “advance” or “technology” or “significant improvement”. Because this revolution is so new, everyone–retailers, consumers, dermatologists, editors–are struggling to figure it out.

Some cosmetics companies like it that way. They invent funny names for molecules. They retouch the living daylights out of those unretouched ads. They cleverly (yet legally) manipulate the copy. These deceptive practices are called “smoke and mirrors”– the metaphor for deceptive or fraudulent practices. The term was first invented to describe the way in which magicians could make objects appear or disappear by using mirrors amid a sudden burst of smoke. It’s clever, but also deceptive.

It works for magicians, and it works for the skin care industry. So women, the willing and unknowing, plunk down big bucks because they want to believe in magic. It’s a national addiction. People everywhere want to fight aging and are looking for solutions.

If you’re going to spend money on skin care products, spend it advisedly. Make sure that you’re not being conned. Make informed decisions. Invest in products that really work. Discriminate. Know how the channel of distribution affects the quality of the merchandise, and the price that you pay. Understand how ads are delicately written and carefully crafted.

Zein Obagi, MD

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Larry L. Taylor asked:


 

Skin disorders such as acne, dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis may benefit from a regular fish oil supplement.  Omega-3 fatty acids are important to skin health in several ways.  They may even reduce your risk of wrinkles and sagging.  Here’s a look at why fish oil is being recommended for skin disorders of all kinds.

Cause of Skin Disorders – Problems

When it comes to poor skin health, nutrient deficits are often responsible.  In cases of essential fatty acid deficiency, dermatitis is always present.  Dermatitis is a blanket term that means inflammation of the skin.  It can be caused by perfume or other types of allergies.  It accompanies eczema, psoriasis and seborrhea.  Too much heat, cold, environmental toxins and insect bites can also cause it.

Benefits of Fish Oil

Increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial for all kinds of these skin disorders, because it has natural inflammation fighting activity.  They are also beneficial for skin health, because they are a primary component of sebum.

Sebum is the skin’s natural lubricant or moisturizer, if you prefer.  It forms a protective barrier that prevents damage from pathogens and the elements.  So a fish oil supplement is often recommended for people with dry, itchy skin. 

Researchers looked at the benefit of omega-3 fatty acids for reducing sagging.  They found that after three months of supplementation, there was a 10% improvement in firmness.  So, not only is fish oil good for skin health, it is good for the appearance, as well.  Firmer skin looks less wrinkled. 

Why Take Fish Oil?

Many doctors recommend omega-3 fatty acids for their patients with acne for several reasons; first, because of its anti-inflammatory activity.  A pimple is actually an inflammation of the hair follicle.  Hair follicles are present all over the body, even though the hairs that come from them may be tiny and fair in color.

Second, skin disorders such as acne are often accompanied by depression and poor mental health.  Omega-3 fatty acids have proven benefits for relieving depression.  Chromium, zinc and selenium are also recommended for skin health, as is beta-carotene and biotin.

The hair, nails and skin are closely related, because of the similar components.  Often, an underlying nutritional deficiency is the cause of dryness of the hair and skin, as well as brittle nails.  Flaking scalp or dandruff is actually a skin problem.

 

Itching, rashes and hives are often caused by low production of sebum.  Changes in the skin’s color are sometimes related to low levels of vitamin E, which also causes the hair to be dry and brittle.  Thus, the nutrients that are important to the skin’s health are also beneficial to the appearance of the hair and the strength of the finger nails.

Fish oil is known to significantly improve the health of the hair and the nails.  The hair becomes more shiny and lustrous.  Itchy dry skin resolves and finger nails grow faster. 

Whether you have skin disorders or want to avoid them, supplementation is recommended.  It’s good for your health today and tomorrow. For more information on how fish oil can improve your appearance and overall health, please see my website listed below.  Larry L. Taylor

 

ZO Skin Health asked:


At about age 35, your hands begin to make you look older. Then, wham! Wrinkles, age spots, loss of elasticity, protruding veins.

In fact, 68% of women claim that their hands make them look at least 10 years older (if you’re in the 32%, you don’t need to read any further).

So why do most hand lotions fall short?

Tip: As we get older, the skin on our hands begins to thin. Because there’s so little fat and muscle in our hands, the bones, wrinkles, veins all begin to show. You need to thicken the skin on your hands—and retinol is the best ingredient for that. Retinol is the only ingredient proven to work on intrinsic (not environmental) damage. So why don’t most companies put in retinol? It’s expensive.

Tip: Your hands are covered with up to 30 layers of dead skin—called the stratum corneum. Occasionally you need to exfoliate all of this dead skin so that the active ingredients can penetrate the epidermis, and to make your hands soft and smooth. At least once a week use a good scrub to polish your hands. Try the ZO Skin Health™ Oraser™ Microderm Hand Renewal, or mix sea salts in an acidic base (like lemon juice).

Tip: Fragrances like “peppermint kiss” may be nice for your nose, but don’t do a darn thing for your hands. Look for ingredients that really mean something—like:

Shea butter (it moisturizes and protects, and is particularly beneficial for sun-exposed skin). Retinol (it boosts cellular turnover and reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, plus it reduces hyperpigmentation—aka sun spots) Sunscreen with an SPF15+. UV rays are your skin’s worst enemy. Wear it every day!

That’s what we mean by “no frou-frou skin care.” Our anti-aging hand lotions aren’t loaded with the namby-pamby stuff. Just high concentrations of active ingredients.

One woman that I spoke with told me that she doesn’t worry about how old her hands look—she just sits on them! She meant to be funny, but hands that make you look older are no joke.

Dr. Zein Obagi, M.D.

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