Skin Questions & Answers

Q: Should i expect any stinging or excessive dryness with any of the products?

A: If you have never used AHA (alpha - hydroxy acids, such as Glycolic acid). Retin -A or vitamin C products you may initially experience mild stinging that should subside after a couple of weeks. Due to the exfoliating actions of AHA, you may also notice dryness in some areas of your face . If this occurs, use a moisturizer over the AHA product. It the dryness persists, use the AHA less frequently. Remember more is not necessarily better.

Q: If i am using both vitamin C and AHA products, When should i use which?

A: Vitamin C , In addition to helping diminish fine lines, is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from photo-aging (sun damage). It should be used in the morning under a moisturizer and/or a sunscreen. A great Vitamin C product for any skin type is Skinceuticals/Derma Quest leave in superficial layers of skin, thus improving the tone and texture of the skin. It is best used before bedtime and left on overnight. It is advisable not to apply these two products at the same time, one on top of the other.

Q: How do i know if i am a good candidate to use AHA & Vitamin C products?

A: Anyone from their early 20's and upwards can benefit from both of these products.
In our opinion, there are three important products that should be a part of every one's long-term skincare routine: a Vitamin C product containing a stable form of ascorbic acid and other antioxidants, an AHA or retinal product (retin-A, if well tolerated), and a good sunscreen. The younger you are when you start using these products, the longer you will look youthful.

Q: When should i wear a sunscreen.

A: EVERY DAY, UVA or wrinkle causing rays are equally intense all year long and unlike UVB or sunburn causing rays the penetrate through Glass. Both UVA and UVB ray contribute to the development of skin cancer. Therefore a sunscreen should be applied everyday. Some damage will occur during our teenage years and upwards, during theses years the skin doesn't have as much protection in the form of dead surface cells and it is more sensitive and prone to sun damage. You only see the damage later in your life in the form of age or "liver" spots, Wrinkles, Veins and skin Cancer.

Q: Will i still get wrinkles if i wear sunscreen everyday.

A: The sun can cause lines, pigmentation and ageing but is not the only cause of ageing. What you eat and everyday living is also a contributory factor. If you want to age well, wear a sun screen.

Q: Are all sunscreens the same.

A: No. It is very important for the consumer to look at the active ingredients of the sunscreen, not just the SPF rating. It is known that zinc oxide and avobenzone (parsol 1789) provide the broadest range of UVA protection. Zinc oxide is a physical sunscreen providing both UVA and UVB protection while Parsol is a chemical sunscreen providing UVA protection only. These ingredients are only ones that protect against wrinkle-causing long-wave UVA rays. Recent studies indicate that Parsol does not remain active on the skin as long as zinc oxide (it can be broken down by sunlight), therefore it should be reapplied frequently. Parsol may also be more irritating to the skin. Titanium dioxide is another effective as either zinc oxide or Pasol. Wear a good sunscreen with Zinc oxide and antioxidants such as Skinceuticals SPS or Skin Medica.

Q: How high of an SPF do i need for everyday use?

A: A good measure is SPF 30 and can be used in conjunction with a stable vitamin C product which will enhance your protection from sun damage and skin cancer.

Q: Does the colour of the skin determine the amount of sun protection needed?

A: Yes. The colour of the skin as well as an individuals geographic location determine the amount of sun protection needed. In general the fairer the skin tone the higher the SPF number required.

Q: Is there anything i can do to improve uneven skin tone?

A: Yes, Products containing alpha-hydroxy acid to remove dead layers of skin as well as there lightening agents, hydroquinone, kojic acid and azelaic acid to help inhibit hyper pigmentation (discolouration of the skin). Products are available to lighten spots and discolorations this should be through consultation through our free consultation service.

Q: Are there any product that should be avoided during pregnancy?

A: Yes, All products that may enter the body through the blood stream should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.

Q: Is it OK to squeeze spots at home?

A: No. This may cause the spot to rupture internally and spread the bacteria from the hair follicle into the surrounding skin, prolong healing. It may also lead to scarring. Instead apply some benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid once or twice a day directly to the spot.

Q: Is a toner a necessary part of the daily skin care routine?

A: No, this would depend on the type of cleanser you are currently using.

Q: Is it OK to cover-up breakouts?

A: Yes, As long as the foundation and the powder you're using are oil and fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (will not clog the pores). We would recommend LYCOGEL as this promotes healing and aids prevention of breakouts.