Read Lyn’s article

“Threading: An Ancient Technique,
in a Modern Setting”

in May’s Dermascope magazine.

“An ancient method of temporarily removing vellus hair, threading has been popular for centuries in Arab countries, as well as Indian cultures. Traditionally, it is a hair removal technique for the entire face, including the upper lip, chin, eyebrows, sideburns and even cheeks. Recently, eyebrow threading has reappeared as the more popular location causing this method of hair removal to pick up momentum in the western world.”

Read the article here.

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer although it is not as common as other forms such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell but it is still the leading cause of death from skin disease. Because it is Melanoma Awareness it’s time to learn what it is, what it looks like and how to check for symptoms. The saying goes “knowledge is power” and that is certainly the case with melanoma!

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a skin condition that occurs when melanocytes, the cells that produce a pigment called melanin, are changed.  Melanoma can

Melanoma on the skin (notice the irregular border)

appear on the skin, as a new mole, or even as a mole you have had all your life.

4 Major Types:

Superficial spreading melanoma

• Most Common
• Flat and irregular in shape & color
• Shades of black and brown

 Nodular melanoma

• Usually starts as a raised area
• Dark black/blue or bluish/red
• Some are not colored

Lentigo maligna melanoma

• Usually occurs in older skin types
• Commonly on sun-damaged skin (face, neck, arms, etc)
• Abnormal skin areas are usually large, flat, and tan with areas of brown.

Acral lentiginous melanoma

• Least common
• Usually found on palms, soles, and even under fingernails

You’re More at Risk If:

While the chances of  developing melanoma is more & more common as we age, it is becoming more frequently seen in younger people as well.  It is so important to be aware of your risk and be vigilant with sun protection and skin checkups!

If you can answer yes to any of these questions you are more at risk for melanoma…

• Do you have a fair skin type, light eyes (blue/green), and light hair (blonde, strawberry blonde-red)?
• Have you ever blistered from a sunburn (especially 1 or more in your childhood)?
• Have you used a tanning bed?
• Do you live in a hot/sunny area?
• Do you live at a high altitude?
• Do you spend a lot of time in the direct/heavy sunlight (maybe due to a job or hobby)?

Checking For Symptoms:

The sooner skin cancer is caught, the greater the potential for a successful treatment. Here are a few questions to ask yourself about a mole or growth you  may have:

• Has the color of your growth/mole/skin area changed at all?
• Does one area look like a different shade then another?
• Is the spot larger than 6mm (the size of a pea) in diameter?
• Does one half of a skin area look different from the other half?
• Are the edges of the mole/growth/skin are irregular?
• Has the spot changed AT ALL in appearance?

If you can answer yes to any of the questions above your spot MAY be irregular. You should check your skin once a month as recommended, and be sure to call your doctor if you notice any changes in size, color, or appearance with your spots, moles, or growths. Also, have a body scan at least once a year with a dermatologist. According to the American Cancer Society people older than 40 should have their skin examined by a professional every year and 20 to 40 year old should be examined every 3 years. Be vigilant with skin examinations and wear sunscreen every day and limit your sun exposure!

Since its start in the 1970’s mineral makeup has had a booming growth in the cosmetics industry. Once just a boutique item, now we’re bombarded with commercials, ads and products displayed in most drugstores and women’s shops encouraging the switch to this natural product. But with such popularity it makes you wonder if it’s all just hype…

With such an array of selection in makeup products ranging from inexpensive drugstore foundation to high dollar name brand powders, it’s hard to tell what the difference between them really is (besides the price). When it comes to mineral makeup, it stands in a league of its own, not just because of the ingredients used in it, but because of the ingredients that are left out.

Preservatives, parabens, fragrances, chemical dyes and mineral oil are not included in the formulation of most mineral makeups, making them less likely to irritate the skin. This is one of the reasons mineral makeup is recommended by estheticians and dermatologists for sensitive skin types (and the lack of oil makes it more attractive for oily-acne prone skin types).  

Most mineral makeup users have two goals in mind:  to use a natural product that also helps them look the best they can.  Not only will mineral makeup provide coverage and an even skin tone, it usually contains Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide, both of which are sun protectants. Titanium Dioxide is derived from minerals like Ilmenite, and is FDA approved as one of the most active ingredients for sun protection! Mineral makeup won’t provide sun coverage like an FDA approved SPF 30 or higher, but with a uniform application it’s a great way to provide extra coverage on a day when you only plan on being outside for a short time. Zinc Oxide (another FDA approved skin protectant) is derived from limestone &  dolomites and is used in healing skin disorders (it helps calm inflammation and irritation). While Zinc Oxide can appear in mainstream makeup, mineral makeup usually has a higher percentage in its formulation making it useful in calming sensitive skin.

Mineral makeup contains natural minerals that can aid in skin care, but one ingredient to look out for  is bismuth oxychloride. This ingredient is usually added to give makeup a smooth, pearl like finish but can potentially cause skin conditions including acne, irritation and sensitivity. While bismuth oxycholoride is generally safe for the majority of people, makeup formulated without it is the safer bet.

Don’t believe the scare that mineral makeup particles are so small they can penetrate the skin’s barrier and cause harmful reactions. For makeup to work it must cover the skin, not dissolve into the skin as nanoparticles and become transparent.

While mineral makeup can work with your skin to aid in correction, no makeup can replace a skin care regime designed for your skin condition. But with the right color, product and technique mineral makeup can help you become the best version of you!

Facial treatments that shed dead skin cells, improving the look and feel of skin – are very popular for those who want to treat the signs of premature aging (especially aging caused by sun damage). Resurfacing treatments such as peels and microdermabrasion have long been used to treat aging skin conditions like wrinkles, fine lines, hyper-pigmentation and loose saggy skin, but now they are being studied for a secondary benefit: pre-cancer lesion prevention.

We’ve all heard the best steps to overcoming the most deadly form of skin cancer (melanoma) is prevention & early detection. Well studies show that people who receive a chemical peel on a regular basis have less risk of skin cancer and are actually preventing the occurrence by removing precancerous sun spots. Combining a peel with a melanin inhibitor such as Institut’ DERMed Intensive Brightening Serum, a fast-acting Hydroquinone spot treatment helps accelerate the exfoliation of dark spots while suppressing melanin production. Hydroquinone is an inhibitor of the enzyme Tyrosinase, which allows melanocytes to create pigment in your skin. Because it inhibits the production of melanin, your skin will be without its natural protection method, so use this serum at night and be sure to use plenty of sunblock during the day (even if it’s cloudy!). For daily home maintenance use Institut’ DERMed Vital C Serum a powerful lightening treatment that stimulates the skin’s immune cells to prevent abnormal melanin production for a more even skin tone. Containing 20% L-Ascorbic Acid, Vital C is a potent anti-oxidant that provides protection against skin damage induced by UV radiation.

While TCA peels are effective for treating non-melanoma skin cancers,  too much of a good thing can be bad. Aggressive chemical peels done too often can leave the skin lacking that certain freshness. Try lighter peels (like an herbal enzyme) more often to keep skin in better overall shape from sun damage and sun spots. Keep in mind pre and post-treatment daily maintenance regimens are proven to boost healing time and are vitally important if you choose the more aggressive route for skin rejuvenation. But most importantly, get your skin checked regularly for potentially cancerous spots, especially moles or freckles that change in color, size, or shape. You can never be too careful!

Changing Skin, Changing Lives,

Lyn Ross

Have you heard the latest aesthetic news in Tennessee? The Tennessee House Health & Human Resources Committee is voting on Wednesday April 4, 2012 on HB2558. If passed, this new legislation would require that “all cosmetic or aesthetic procedures be performed by a physician or osteopathic physician (referred to collectively as a physician in this summary) or delegated by the physician to a person under the supervision of the physician.”

This legislation would inhibit the opportunities of Tennessee estheticians to continue performing “aesthetic procedures” including laser treatments. Currently, procedures are allowed to be safely performed by certified and licensed estheticians who comply with health and safety consumer protocols.

Tennessee estheticians have been urged to contact their representatives to help curb the legislation which could inhibit their treatment options and business opportunities. If interested in voicing your opinion on HB2558, the voting on April 4 will take place at the Health & Humans Resources Committee meeting in the Tennessee Legislative Plaza in Nashville.

3 Steps to Reduce Bacterial Blemishes

You thought once middle school ended and your braces came off that those unsightly blemishes would disappear and you’d have clear skin through adulthood. Unfortunately, reality has set it and you’re still battling the breakouts despite the fact your teen years are long gone.

Breakouts occur as a result of excessive sebum (oil) production mixing with keratinized dead cells in the hair follicle.  Although acne’s actual cause is unknown, and a number of causes can play a role, we do know that it involves bacterial breakdown of sebum into fatty acids that irritates  surrounding tissue.

All types of acne have one thing in common, an enlarged hair follicle plugged with oil and bacteria. The good news is some acne that sticks with you through adulthood can be caused by trapped bacteria. This may sound scary, but here are three easy (and relatively inexpensive) tips to keep breakouts away and get that radiant skin you always dreamed of.

Use Salicylic Acid.  A beta hydroxy acid derived from Willow Tree Bark, Salicylic acid is a gentle alternative to Benzoyl Peroxide (which can be too harsh on the skin). Our favorite acne cleanser is the Clarifying Cleanser formulated with Salicylic Acid to reduce redness and help clear and prevent acne breakout (also formulated with Totarol from the Totara Tree as an anti-bacterial).

Exfoliate. When you’re suffering from breakouts, the last thing you want is dead skin filled with bacteria to build up. If you’re using active ingredients to fight your acne, you want to use a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cell build up. By keeping your skin exfoliated, you’re also making it easier for your products to penetrate into the skin to stop the breakouts at their source! We can’t tell you enough about the Enhancing Micro Crystal Polish for a gentle exfoliation.

LED Light Therapy. While the Red LED light is used for producing collagen, the Blue LED light is what those affected by acne are looking for. The Blue LED light is in a very specific light spectrum that is proven by the FDA to destroy the bacteria that causes acne. Even after the first treatment, amazing results are seen by using this therapy on skin with acne. It’s a painless treatment for every skin type, has no down time and will suppress the bacteria causing your breakouts!

Changing Skin, Changing Lives,

Lyn Ross

With spring break fast approaching, travel plans are coming together. While you’re packing your swimsuits or sunscreen for beach trips, or long johns and boots for your ski get away, keep these skin care tips in mind to reduce discomfort.

Before you fly cleanse your face with a soothing cleanser containing non-drying ingredients. Glycolic can have a tendency to dry skin so avoid using your anti-aging cleansers right before your trip. A soothing toner will prep your skin for maximum benefits from your hydrating serum. The Anti-Oxidant Peptide Serum is formulated with apple stem cells and peptides and will increase epidermal hydration reducing the drying effect from the recycled air and elevation levels when flying. I know we all like to look our best when we land at our destination, but apply your makeup after you land to prevent it from further drying your skin during flight.

When you feel your skin drying during flight, its effects can be seen as well. Carry a hydration spray with you (we love Jane Iredale’s POMMIST Hydration Spray) to prevent your skin from drying out and for instant skin comfort.

While packing for your travel destination, think about what type of climate you’re headed to. For that ski vacation pack hydrating products because the cold can dehydrate you (but don’t forget you still need sunscreen!). For that beach trip, be prepared for your skin to potentially break out from the heat and your likelihood to sweat more. Try packing products from the Clarifying Line to keep these breakouts to a minimum.

When your traveling is over, the best way to renew your skin and replace lost moisture is a Hydrafacial treatment. This facial uses a moisturizing skin resurfacing system that exfoliates while infusing specific serums for deep cleansing and correction of age related skin conditions. The treatment includes surface cleansing, hydra facial procedure, selected mask and hydration and sun protection to leave your skin feeling better than ever!

Changing Skin, Changing Lives,

Lyn Ross

We’ve all seen the commercials boasting about products that will even skin tone, diminish the sign of dark pigmented spots, and brighten the skin. With skin brighteners growing in popularity it’s hard to know what’s true, what’s false, and what products are really worth the investment (not to mention are the ingredients safe!). So what should you look for in a skin brightener, and what can they really do for you?

The main thing skin brighteners do is fade those brown spots, usually caused from sun damage, and make the skin color look more even. While most skin brighteners do actually work, it’s important to take a look at the ingredients to make sure they are active (so they will produce a change in your skin).

The most effective ingredients are hydroquinone and the new Chromabright.  Hydroquinone can be more of a risk with some people reacting to

it. Unfortunately, Hydroquinone is actually banned in some countries.  Chromabright, however, a new patented active molecule for skin brightening, is proven to have higher melanogenesis inhibition than Arbutin, MAP and Kojic Acid, and the same depigmenting effect as hydroquinone. Chromabright will stimulate collagen production, protect against photo-aging, while preventing premature aging, hyperpigmentation and acne.

A lot of skin brighteners also use milder ingredients, such as vitamin C or vitamin B derivatives, kojic acid or plant extracts. These ingredients won’t be as effective at removing dark pigmentation but they will produce some milder results in the skin.

Here are some tips to make your brightening product more effective:

1. Keep skin exfoliated. If the skin is exfoliated, the brightener will penetrate deeper and more easily producing better results. Try removing those dead skin cells with a micro crystal polish or a Clarisonic facial scrubber to be sure the active ingredients in the brightener won’t be blocked. To get even better results, get a microdermabrasion or herbal enzyme peel from your favorite esthetician to keep skin fresh and remove those dead skin layers.
2. Use sunscreen. If you’re not using a sunscreen you’re wasting your time using a skin brightener.  Institut’ DERMed Brightening Moisturizer provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection to prevent skin discoloration and premature aging for a healthy, vibrant complexion. Remember to continue using sunscreen even after the brown pigment or uneven color is gone or they will reappear.
3. All ethnicity’s can use  brighteners. But before using any product, discuss the ingredients with your esthetician to be sure they are the best bet for your skin type and skin concern.

If you have brown pigment that won’t go away and you have followed all of the basic rules for using a brightener, then unfortunately the pigment is deep in the skin. If the pigment is too deep, the products won’t penetrate to treat the discoloration.  For these stubborn spots, discuss your laser treatment options with your esthetician.

 Changing Skin, Changing Lives,

Lyn Ross

Read Lyn’s article

“A Collagen Boosting Alternative:
Dermal Micro Needling”

in February’s Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa magazine.

“Remember that smooth, dewy glow your skin had during your childhood? Young skin looks tight and toned because of active collagen production in the dermis, which slows steadily as we age, causing skin to loosen and fine lines and wrinkles to appear. New technology and products come out every day, promising the secrets to the fountain of youth, so it becomes difficult to choose the most effective treatment plan to achieve your specified results. Of course, it is vital to do your research and know what each treatment does in order to make an educated decision on the right products and procedures when treating age related skin conditions, especially collagen compromised skin.”

Read the article on Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa website,

or in their digital magazine here.

Most clients spend numerous hours and plenty of money on treating their face, their nails and their hair each month. But somehow in the time, effort, and dollars most of us spend on maintaining our look, we neglect our body skin (even though it takes up vastly more surface area than our face!). Our bodies don’t feel the love and therefore become victim to a vast number of evils including genetics, hormones, sun damage, aging, and that awful “C” word. Cellulite. Here are a few tips to address those body issues and start feeling good in your skin.

Dry Patches

One of the most common skin problems makes your skin fell rough, dull and flaky. Dry skin occurs mainly in the arms and legs, and seems

Enhancing Glycolic Body Wash

worse in the winter months when humidity is low. One way dry skin occurs is if the protective oils and the water in the skin is allowed to escape.

• At home. Remember when bathing that hot water can often worsen dry skin by removing the protective skin oils. But, applying a moisturizer following a bath or shower allows water to be trapped and sealed in the stratum corneum making your skin softer and smoother (and helps protect from future dry skin).
• Lather up with Glycolic Body Wash & Lotion. The intensive body wash formulated with Glycolic Acid and Shea Butter exfoliates, softens rough dry skin while ensuring the maximum penetration of the Glycolic Body Lotion to be applied after the shower. The Glycolic Body Lotion formulated with Glycolic Acid and Apricot Kernel Oil ( increase cellular hydration and moisture retention) will not only restore skin elasticity but eliminate dead skin cell build up and hydrate.
• Pamper Yourself. Try the Healing Moor Mud Wrap, an alternative therapy used for centuries. This luxurious treatment will not only leave you revived and relaxed, but will increase circulation, detoxify, hydrate and heal the skin.

Cellulite

If you’re dealing with cellulite, you’re not alone. Approximately 85 percent of women are dealing with it right along with you. Estrogen promotes fat storage, and because fat is organized into chambers that are separated by fibrous connective tissue, when the fat swells you get that unfortunate dimpled appearance (cute in a baby, not so cute on a grown woman!)

•  Try Endermologie®. This non-invasive treatment is an FDA approved therapy to reduce the appearance of cellulite (and feels like a deep tissue massage!) for a fraction of the price of going under the knife. Mechanical stimulation on the skin by treatment head provoke a physiological change deep down in the cells activating collagen and elastin production and lipolysis.
• Use CelluliteRx™. Most cellulite products don’t work because they sit on the surface of the skin, but never make it down to the deeper layers of the skin where cellulite begins. CelluliteRx™is formulated with QuSome™ that drives the active ingredients into the skin to battle cellulite. The treatment kit includes the LipoSmooth Body Polish, the LipoTherm Contour Cream, and Lipolift Firming Cream to treat all those areas that fall prey to cellulite (upper arms, stomach, butt and thighs).
•  Bye-Bye Salt. Stay away from things that make you retain water, like consuming a lot of salt. And be sure to drink your recommended daily intake of water. When fluid builds up the fat between the fibrous bands bulge. Keep yourself on a healthy work out regime that helps you to build muscle. Because muscle helps improve the blood flow, your fluid retention will be reduced minimizing that infamous cottage-cheese look.

Pigmented Spots

Unfortunately in this day and age, being tan is considered more attractive. A lot of people remember to put sunscreen on their faces or wear a protective hat, but neglect to apply sunscreen to protect their body.

• Cover Up. It’s as simple as that. To prevent further sun damage and to stop your already discolored areas from looking worse, wear your SPF now! Wear hats and cover- ups if you’re at the beach, and be sure to reapply sunscreen according to the guidelines so you’re constantly covered.
• Fading with Chromabright. In the past, people were using a controversial hydroquinone to fade dark brown discoloration. But the revolutionary hydroquinone-free serum is formulated with Chromabright (proven to have higher melanogensis than Arbutin & Kojic Acid) and Glycolic Acid to fade discoloration and renew the skin’s surface. This serum is usually used on the face, but can be used to spot treat over the body.
• Treat with IPL. High concentrations of melanin are typically caused by an excess of pigment commonly due to sun exposure, aging or congenital factors. Lumenis Quantum IPL effectively treats sun spots by zapping the discolored cells, allowing them to absorb the heat, temporarily darken, then scab and flake off.

Changing Skin, Changing Lives,

Lyn Ross