RESVERATROL SUPPLEMENTS FIGHT AGAINST CELLULAR AGEING!

THERE HAS RECENTLY BEEN A LOT OF TALK IN THE MEDIA ABOUT THE POWERFUL ANTI-AGEING BENEFITS OF RESVERATROL.  I HAVE LOOKED INTO THE RESEARCH TO LET YOU KNOW EXACTLY HOW POWERFUL THIS INGREDIENT IS,  WHETHER IT IS SAFE, AND WHAT RESULTS YOU CAN EXPECT TO ACHIEVE BY USEING RESVERATROL....

 

Most People in Australia often hear that consuming a glass of dark wine could be healthy but they are not aware of why exactly this is correct. In 2006, scientists in the Harvard School Of Medicine and also the National Institute on Ageing (NIA) reported that the natural substance present in dark wine, referred to as resveratrol supplements, can offset the side effects of the high-calorie diet and considerably extend lifespan.

So How can Resveratrol help you? Resveratrol:

·         Protects the skin against photo-ageing

·         Supports healthy ageing

·         Supports a healthy cardiovascular system

·         Support healthy blood glucose levels A

THE NITTY GRITTY...

How Does Resveratrol Protect the Skin Against Photo-ageing?

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the key cause of premature ageing of the skin, including the formation of wrinkles and saggy skin. Photo-ageing from UVR appears to be mediated by the excessive breakdown of collagen and elastin within the dermis, along with a reduction in collagen synthesis from fibroblast cells within the dermis. The combination of increased collagen breakdown and reduced collagen synthesis results in a breakdown of dermal matrix, which may manifest as wrinkled and saggy skin.

Several studies provide evidence that resveratrol reduces UVR-induced skin ageing.  Another study found human fibroblasts treated with resveratrol increased fibroblast proliferation and inhibited collagenase activity, an enzyme that can also degrade collagen in the dermis.

Other research on resveratrol’s ability to reduce UVR-induced damage further supports its use in promoting healthy skin. Resveratrol treatment to UV exposed keratinocytes was also found to stimulate an increase in the production of endogenous antioxidant defence enzymes via the activation of the antioxidant response element (ARE) in the DNA, promoting cellular protection against oxidative stress.


How Does Resveratrol Support Healthy Ageing?

Resveratrol has been shown to regulate a number of key areas of physiology and cellular function, including supporting pathways that tend to become dysfunctional during ageing. An important effect of resveratrol in promoting healthy ageing is its ability to activate the regulatory protein, sirtuin 1.  This is an enzyme that modulates a number of intracellular transcription factors via deacylation. These factors help to combat conditions that are associated with ageing, such as obesity, inflammatory diseases, diabetes, muscular dysfunction and cancer. 


On Top of All This Resveratrol also:

·         Supports a healthy cardiovascular system

·         Supports healthy blood glucose levels

Safety:

Resveratrol has been found to be a very safe ingredient.  That being said, Resveratrol is a very strong anti-oxidant.  If you are on any medication or have any health conditions, please check with your doctor before beginning to take this supplement.   There are some medications it is best not to combine with.

Results in Summary:

Resveratrol should be used by those wanting to have a healthier and more comfortable life in the latter years.   Resveratrol has also been shown in studies to increase life expectancy.  Resveratrol should also be used by those wanting to maintain the youthful elements in their skin.  Resveratrol has also been shown to significantly counteract the effects of ageing.


How can you start using Resveratrol?

·         Begin taking a ‘one-a-day’ Supplement.  I recommend Ethical Nutrient’s Resveratrol Age Defence.

·         Include Resveratrol in your daily skin care.  I recommend Aspect Dr Resveratrol Moisturising Crème.

Resveratrol is best used daily and long term.  If this is done, you will definitely reap the reward with your health internally and also externally with healthy and youthful looking skin.


Enjoy Health!

Paula x J

ANOTHER 3 PRODUCT THAT YOU DON'T NEED!

 THAT MARKETING COMPANIES WOULD LOVE YOU TO BUY :)

Neck creams:

Please see these 3 important reasons that you DO NOT need a separate ‘neck cream’:

1.       There are no product ingredients that are developed exclusively for the neck. 

2.       The way a product interacts with the skin is identical for the face and the neck. 

3.       The serums you use on your face for anti-ageing and firming – such as Vitamin C and Vitamin A work exactly the same on the neck.

These 'neck creams' are generally over-priced and over packaged.  They really can be a waste of your hard earned money that could be better spent and products that will actually make a genuine difference.

Our plastic surgeon Andrew Ives highly recommends Vitamin C and Vitamin A serums combined.  These 2 serums have amazing collagen boosting power to create firming, smoothing and clearing. 

If your neck is really a concern for you, please look into the "Cutera Titan" laser.  It is expensive, but has good results with firming and toning.  A consultation with a plastic surgeon may also be something to think about.

If it is a manageable concern, stick with your vitamin A and C serums - and see the difference!  Ask your skin clinic to do before and after photos for you. 

Overpriced cleansers:

A cleanser that is priced at over $100 is way over-priced!

A cleanser is not in contact with the skin long enough for some of these high end ingredients to work.

With a cleanser it is best to keep it simple.  Save your money for something that is going to stay in contact with your skin a little longer than 20 seconds.

That said - it is important to remember that the cleansing step is extremely important to get right.

The primary purpose of a cleanser is to gently clean the skin without stripping the skin of its barrier. 

Different skin types require different strengths of cleansing. 

 If skin is over-cleansed it can lead to irritation, dryness, dehydration and sensitivities that any amount of moisturising or serums will not be able to correct.

Similarly – if a skin is under-cleansed, congestion, blackhead, pimples and acne can result.

 It is best to contact your nearest skin clinic for expert advice on the correct cleanser for your skin.

Astringent Toner:

10 to 20 years ago, it was believed that toning was an important step in our daily skin care routines.  This step was to:  1. ‘Shrink’ the pores, and 2. Remove all traces of cleanser.

1.       ‘Shrink’ the pores.  Since then we have found out that there actually is no way of ‘shrinking’ pores.  They are the size they are – no amount of witch hazel or alcohol applied to the skin can change that. 

We can however reduce that appearance of larger pores with courses of chemical peels, microdermabrasion, CIT and laser treatments.  These treatments smooth over the surface of skin, to create a more level and even appearance.

2.       Remove all traces of cleanser.   10 to 20 years ago, cleansers were highly synthetic, containing strong irritants.  This is why the ‘toning’ step was important.  If traces were left on the skin, irritation was likely to occur. 

Thankfully the way cleansers (especially professional cleansers) are formulated has changed.  Most professional quality cleansers are based on natural ingredients and have a slight hydrating quality.  If traces are left on the skin, it is perfectly fine, and it will have no impact on the skin whatsoever.

My advice, once again – leave out the ‘toning’ step, put that money back into your purse and save it for something that will actually make an impact on your skin.

What is important to include in your skin care routine?

Everyone should do the very basics – cleanse the skin, protect your skin from the sun, and moisturise.  If your interest is to make actual changes to your skin e.g. reverse the signs of ageing and get clearer skin – the very best thing you can do is get advice from your local skin clinic – they will point you in the right direction J

Happy shopping!

Paula J

WHAT ARE YOU USING ON YOUR LIPS?!

LIP CAUTION!

I have been moved to write this blog because of the large number of patients we are seeing at the clinic who are concerned with congestion around their lips and chin.... even if congestion is not of a concern anywhere else in there skin.

Most patients have one thing in common. They are using a petrochemical or highly synthetic bases product on their lips.  And some or most of these products are not designed to be used on the lips. 

What are these products? 

Listing from most commonly used:

1. Papaw ointment
2. Vaseline
3. Lip Gloss

Papaw ointment: 

The manufacturers of papaw list the benefits as:

• Minor Burns & Scalds
• Sunburn
• Gravel Rash, Cuts & Minor Open Wounds
• Nappy Rash & Chafing
• Insect Bites
• Splinters & Thorns

These are all great ways to use Papaw ointment.  Please note that 'lip balm' is not listed as a use.

Papaw ointment has 2 main ingredients - Carica Papaya 39mg/g Fresh Fermented Fruit
and Pharmaceutical Grade Petroleum Jelly.  Petroleum Jelly is a petrochemical and is also the main ingredient in Vaseline.  Although petroleum jelly is safe and inert (will not impact the body), it is an extreme comedogenic (likely to cause clogged pores/ blackheads/congestion/acne). 

Please only use this product for what it is recommended.  It is a great healer, but should only be used short term, not daily!

Vaseline:

Is a comedogenic and should not be used daily on the lips.  You may notice breakouts/clogged pores increasing when using this as a lip balm, plus you may also find your lips become dryer and need more moisturising.

Lip Gloss:

Please check the ingredients on your lip gloss.  Highly synthetically fragranced & petrochemical based.  Both of these ingredient groups are also highly comedogenic, plus the fragrance can cause added irritations.

My advice:

 Make sure you have enough omega 3 in your diet.  Drink plenty of water.  Cut down or out alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes.  Use your professional product eye balm on your lips. Wear sunscreen. Avoid excessive sun and wind exposure.

Inika do GREAT certified organic lip glosses and lip sticks.

For short term sun protection when you know you are more likely to experience sore lips, such at the beach or snow, I recommend the original Chap Stick with SPF.  Remember, this is only short term, not daily.

Visit your local skin clinic for advice on ongoing dry/cracked/sore lips to obtain the perfect pout!

Then pucker up!! 

Paula :)

The Vogue Verdict on Active Skincare

The lastest 'Vogue' magazine's view on Cosmeceauticals.

"Editors' Blogs

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Credit: Conde Nast Archive.

• BY SIGOURNEY CANTELO
• 16 th Jan 2013

Vogue's beauty director tries out active skincare.

Since having a baby, I’ve grappled with the post-baby beauty conundrum of sallow skin and pigmentation.

Now, finally, I’ve seen the light. After several months of topical vitamin C, AHAs and retinol, my skin has been reborn. Yes, folks. I’ve found active skincare and I’m spreading the gospel like some kind of born-again clinician. Hallelujah!
Active skincare, also known as cosmeceutical or clinical skincare, is considered more active than most over-the-counter products as they contain a higher percentage of active ingredients. Most lines are built around targeted scent-free serums, which you layer on to address particular concerns, rather than thick luxurious creams that smell great but don’t do a lot. This is serious skin therapy minus the fluff. Active ranges are usually sold through dermatologists, medi-spas and skin clinics because it’s important to have an expert instruct you in the right products for your skin and how to use them.

I first discovered how effective actives can be several years ago when I tried Australian brand Rationale Skincare. I started using The Essential Six and within a month noticed serious changes in my skin. I loved that the founder, cosmetic chemist Richard Parker, had come up with a tight edit of only the ingredients that have been proven to work via peer-reviewed literature. 

A couple of years went by and I was distracted by organics and luxe French brands. But, as we say in fashion, three times and it’s a trend. When I had three different beauty experts prescribe actives to me again, I had to get back on the program.

Since actives are strong, it’s all about taking it slow and building your skin up to the ingredients to avoid irritation. So first up, Alexia Shinas at Next of Skin put me on to another Australian brand, Aspect. Their Exfol 15 uses lactic acid to unplog pores and keep hormonal spots at bay. It worked a treat. 

When my skin was used to that, the owner of cute Sydney North Shore salon Missy’s Place, Kylie, suggested the Aspect Doctor Active C Serum – a super-charged antioxidant and peptide formula to repair and protect skin.

Finally, I was ready for the big guns: retinol or vitamin A. One of the most effective skingredients around, retinol brightens, tightens and clears skin remarkably. The only downside? It can cause sensitivity if it’s not used correctly. The travelling peelsman, James Vivian who comes to your home to treat you, suggested I start with CosMedix Define Resurfacing Treatment but “only a pea-sized amount every third night”. This cream uses a special form of retinol that converts to retinoic acid once absorbed into the skin, so is less irritating that traditional prescription-only Retin-A. I’ve worked my way up to daily applications and my skin is looking better than ever. 

The only problem with these brands is the packaging. Think functional (to protect the stability of the ingredients), high tech and basic. As an unapologetic aesthete, this does offend my sensibility – and my bathroom cabinet. The good news is some brands are getting the message. Rationale have just revised its packaging with glossy black bottles that are numbered, for ease of use. They’ve also reformulated and have taken out all their preservatives. They are about to open a clinic in Sydney’s Woollahra, so I am going to get my skin analysed and try the new products. I’ll report back. Watch this space!"

3 COSMETIC INDUSTRY ADVERTISING FIBS

YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED.....

1.  The ‘pseudo-science’ marketing behind the major cosmetic companies.  These companies stock their products for easy access in supermarkets and cosmetic counters.  These product companies spend an incredible amount on advertising.  Currently the trend is to highlight the lastest "medical/scientific" ingredients which they are including in their products.  When the actual ingredients are looked into, it  has generally shown, the quantities of actual active ingredients that go into these products are so small, they cannot make an improvement to the skin.

 2.      Extravagant Packaging. Unfortunately the packing of the supermarket and cosmetic counter ‘skin care’ companies can be as expensive as - or more expensive  - than the actual product.  This packaging is used to make the product look either like it has a scientific, high end, or a natural basis.  Please beware of any company that look to be putting a huge emphasis on over packaged products.  They may have something they are compensating for.

3.     “Scientific Studies”.  Please listen closely to advertising that have ‘studies’ that back up their claims for improving the skin.  You may have noticed that most advertisements do not state the study size, what group of people they have surveyed and how they measured their results.

We are not saying that all cosmetics in supermarkets and cosmetic counters have no value.  There are some “good brands” and some “not so good brands”.

The 'not so good' brands are highly synthetic with extremely little active ingredient.   The high amount of sythetics can lead to skin becoming redder in appearance, more sensitive, increase ageing, irritations can occur and/or congestion.

If you are interested in buying your product from these places, please try to stick to brands that are certified organic.  So at least you know they are safe.   Saying ‘organic’ on the label does not mean it is organic.  The only way to ensure it is really a natural and partly organic product is to check for an organic certification. 

If this is the way you want to go, please stick to a basic creamy or milky cleanser and a light moisturiser.  Even if this is done, the problem with picking a product from the shelf, is it may not be the correct one for your skin, so you still may end up with more ageing, more sensitivities and more congestion.  Although sticking to the absolute basics should reduce this.

The best and safest option to get the correct product for your skin is to see a Dermal Therapist at your Skin Clinic. 

If price is a concern, please let your Therapist know, and he/she will work within your budget. 

If results are your interest, you will be in the best hands possible J

3 Products You DON'T Need!

1. Tinted Moisturiser with SPF

Tinted moisturisers with SPF are a 3-in-one product.  This unfortunately means the tint and chemical SPF are absorbed deep into the skin along with the moisturiser.  Most of these products are HIGHLY synthetic.  This leads to a lot of sensitivities in patients skin and will also generally show an increase in redness on the skin surface.

When asking patients to change to a natural ingredient based moisturiser, a significant difference is generally noticed within the week.  Instead of using a cheap chemical SPF, an SPF using clear zinc is preferred, which will reduce sensitivities and redness.  A skin clinic quality mineral makeup can also be used - and the best mineral makeups have an SPF 20 included, which will also have sooth the skin.

2. Expensive Moisturisers that cost over $200 +

The purpose of a moisturiser is to protect & hydrate. There is NOT an ingredient in a moisturiser that is so expensive that it would warrant such a high price.  Please read the ingredient list of your moisturiser, and make sure you are also avoiding fragrances, parabens & highly synthetic products.  A large number of these highly priced (designer) moisturisers are also high in fillers and low in active ingredients.

Moisturisers should be recommended by a professional.  It is best to have a photo of your skin taken at a skin clinic and a thorough history taken.  An incorrectly prescribed product can be detrimental to a patients skin.  Likewise, a correctly prescribed moisturiser will make a wonderful difference.

3. Soap based cleansers

A cleanser should be mild enough, so as not to disrupt the natural ecosystem, immunity and barrier your skin has to protect itself.  The cleanser is the most important part of your skin care routine to get correct.  If the cleanser is not suitable for your skin, not amount of wonderful serums or moisturisers will be able to correct the damage already done. Any cleanser that leaves your skin tight, can cause sensitivities, and can lead to breakouts, skin rashes and excess oiliness.   Any kind of soap should NEVER be used as a cleanser!



The best cleansers are natural based and leave the skin feeling fresh, clean but never tight or dry.