For many of us, cosmetics are an integral part of our daily lives. Unfortunately, the testing and manufacturing of makeup and beauty products are not as closely monitored as we think they are. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) treats preservative ingredients like parabens the same as any other ingredients, and, while phthalate levels in cosmetics are measured, there is little regulation keeping these products off of the shelves.

Parabens

Parabens were introduced to the beauty industry as preservatives to keep mold and bacteria from growing on makeup and skincare products. They extend the shelf life of nearly all cosmetics, preventing microorganisms from getting into our eyes, nose, mouth, and pores; however, parabens are known to cause endocrine disruption, which can affect development, reproduction, hormone system function, and growth.  

Phthalates

These chemicals are plasticizers that are added to cosmetics, flexible plastics, adhesives, and countless other products. While cosmetics containing phthalates feel soft and may smell pretty, they could be affecting your health negatively. Recent studies have shown a link between phthalates and abnormal hormonal changes, as well as congenital disabilities, prompting some manufacturers to stop using them.

A Healthier Alternative

Parabens and phthalates are everywhere, but keeping them away from our eyes, nose, and mouth is an easy way to minimize the health risks associated with products that contain these harmful chemicals. Using mineralized makeup is the safer, healthier alternative. Not only is natural mineral makeup paraben- and phthalate-free, but it is also gentler on the skin. Some additional benefits include:

• Oil-free formula
• Moderate sun protection
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Appropriate for all skin types

For more information about paraben- and phthalate-free makeup, call 909-981-8929 to schedule your consultation with Skin Physicians & Surgeons.

This entry was posted on Monday, March 19th, 2018 at 1:42 pm and is filed under Cosmeceuticals. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

The first part of the body that shows noticeable signs of aging is usually the face. Facial aging typically causes tissue weakening, particularly in the delicate eye area, which can lead to loose skin. Drooping, puffy eyelids can make a person appear much older or more upset than they really are, and it can even obstruct their vision. Patients who suffer from sagging eyelids can achieve the subtle yet effective facial rejuvenation they want with upper blepharoplasty.

What Is Blepharoplasty?

Upper blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift surgery, is a procedure that enhances the eye area by correcting skin laxity and puffiness of the eyelids. Incisions are created within the natural crease of the eyelids through which excess skin is removed and remaining tissues are tightened. In some cases, excess fat on the nasal edge of the eyelid is removed for optimal results.

Benefits

Blepharoplasty brightens the face and creates a happier, younger appearance. This conservative approach to facial rejuvenation also provides the following benefits:

• Improved vision
• Enhanced eyelid contours
• Imperceivable scarring

Am I a Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

Candidates for any cosmetic surgery must be in good health and have realistic expectations of the procedure. You may be considering blepharoplasty if you can relate to any of these eyelid imperfections:

• Sagging eyelid skin that hangs over the natural fold
• Eyelid skin that droops in front of the eye, impairing your vision
• Puffiness of the upper eyelids
• Skin laxity of the upper eyelids that makes it difficult to apply makeup

For more information about blepharoplasty and other facial rejuvenation options, schedule your personal consultation at Skin Physicians & Surgeons by calling 909.981.8929.

This entry was posted on Thursday, January 25th, 2018 at 1:48 pm and is filed under Blepharoplasty. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

While facials can be relaxing and help you de-stress after a particularly exhausting work week, they can also do much more than that. Facials have tremendous long-term and short-term effects on the wellness of your skin, which will help you look and feel refreshed and beautiful. Getting them done regularly can replenish your skin for a consistently glowing, youthful appearance. There are plenty of benefits to getting regular facials.

Oil Control

Oily skin is a challenging obstacle to tackle for people of all ages. Facials can help manage oil production, which may be caused by hormone fluctuations, weather changes, or lack of hydration.

Anti-aging

Routine facials can also help combat the natural aging process. Facials promote skin cell growth and collagen production, which contribute to healthy, youthful skin.

Deep Cleansing

Not everyone gets all the makeup grime and daily buildup off with a standard at-home cleansing routine. A facial thoroughly removes dirt and oil buildup, improving complexion and shrinking visible pores.

Healthy Skin Year-Round

The seasons can take a toll on our skin, but facials can help restore the skin’s natural balance. Issues like dry skin or dull complexion are easily avoided with regular facials throughout the year.

Quick Results

Unlike other facial rejuvenation techniques and procedures, facials offer quick, visible improvement. Depending on the components of the facial you choose, you can experience plumper, brighter, and/or smoother skin. Getting facials on a consistent basis will also help you maintain the results longer.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 21st, 2017 at 3:58 pm and is filed under Facials. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

The face can show signs of aging at any point in time. Lifestyle choices, such as sunbathing and smoking, can speed up the natural aging process, resulting in fine facial lines and wrinkles. Many of these imperfections occur around the lips, causing a scowling or sad appearance. Luckily, there is a variety of dermal fillers that can instantly restore youthfulness to your face by addressing signs of aging in the lips and mouth area.

RADIESSE®

RADIESSE® is a dermal filler composed of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres in an aqueous gel. It is a synthetic product that is entirely compatible with the body. RADIESSE® also stimulates collagen production, which provides long-term rejuvenation.

Benefits

• Smooths moderate to severe nasolabial folds, or “smile lines”
• Treats pre-jowl folds and marionette lines
• Long lasting (one year or longer)

Restylane®

Restylane® is a dermal filler composed of hyaluronic acid gel. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body, so Restylane® works by replenishing the body’s supply of it to rejuvenate trouble areas of the face.

Benefits

• Smooths moderate to severe nasolabial folds, or “smile lines”
• Treats marionette lines
• Corrects vertical lines on the lips
• Lip enhancement for patients over age 21
• Long lasting (one year or longer)

JUVÉDERM®

JUVÉDERM® Ultra and JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus are dermal fillers composed of hyaluronic acid. The gel is of superior smooth consistency, which produces natural-looking results. The body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, so JUVÉDERM® restores the depleted supply for a revitalized facial appearance.

Benefits

• Smooths parenthesis lines
• Treats marionette lines
• Corrects vertical lines on the lips
• Plumps lips that have thinned over time
• Long lasting (six months or longer)

For more information about how dermal fillers can restore youthfulness to your face, schedule your facial rejuvenation consultation with Dr. Sandra Lee, a.k.a. Dr. Pimple Popper™, or one of the other providers at Skin Physicians & Surgeons.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, October 17th, 2017 at 1:49 pm and is filed under Dermal Fillers. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Fat removal continues to be one of the most commonly sought out cosmetic procedures. Patients who are plagued by stubborn fat deposits—the ones that are unaffected by healthy, active lifestyle choices—often feel compelled to consider liposuction. Before tumescent liposuction was developed, the biggest safety concern for liposuction patients was blood loss; however, this technique virtually eliminates that risk, providing patients with a comfortable and pleasing fat removal experience. Tumescent liposuction is a safe and effective method for fat removal with minimal recovery time.

Benefits of Tumescent Liposuction

• No general anesthesia required
• Minimal downtime
• Little bruising and swelling
• Minor post-op pain and discomfort

Procedure

Tumescent liposuction involves injecting large amounts of fluid containing lidocaine and epinephrine into unwanted subcutaneous fat. Because this technique utilizes epinephrine, which constricts blood vessels, very little blood is lost during the procedure. This also helps reduce post-op bleeding, swelling, and, ultimately, pain. The lidocaine is a long-lasting local anesthetic that eradicates the need for general anesthesia, so recovery is quicker and easier. The incisions created are so minute they do not require stitches or extensive healing time, so patients can expect to be up and about sooner than if they had undergone more invasive fat removal surgery.

Results

Once the fat cells have been removed via tumescent liposuction, they do not grow back. The results of the procedure are considered permanent because the patient’s new silhouette maintains over time. Even if a patient were to gain weight after treatment, the fat distributes more evenly over the body than it did before the fat cells were eliminated.

If you wish to eliminate stubborn fat deposits, schedule your tumescent liposuction consultation with Dr. Sandra Lee today. Call our office at 909-981-8929 or contact us online.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, September 5th, 2017 at 3:54 pm and is filed under Tumescent Liposuction. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

It’s summer, and we are all thinking the same thing: time to go all out on our depilatory routines. The more common approach to hair removal is shaving, but it becomes tiresome and, at times, painful. In 2016, over one million people tossed out their razors and opted for laser hair removal because of the striking advantages over shaving.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal has a higher initial cost than buying razors and shaving cream, but it is a smart investment. After five to eight sessions, hair is greatly reduced. One maintenance treatment may be necessary every one to two years, and this gives you invaluable freedom to enjoy your results without worrying about consistent upkeep.

Pros

• Cost-effective in the long run
• Does not damage the skin
• Can be used to treat a variety of problem areas
• Saves time

Cons

• Higher upfront cost
• Does not work on blonde or grey hair
• Treatments can be somewhat uncomfortable

Shaving 

Shaving is the tried and true method of hair removal because it’s readily available. Razors and other shaving products can be purchased almost anywhere, and they can be used in the comfort of your own home; however, it comes with its own set of drawbacks.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Easy
• Can be done at home

Cons

• Quick regrowth of hair
• May result in razor burn
• Can lead to ingrown hairs

If you want to remove unsightly hair permanently, please schedule a consultation today at Skin Physicians & Surgeons. Call us at 909-981-8929 or contact us online.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, July 19th, 2017 at 10:55 am and is filed under Laser Hair Removal. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Having clear, smooth skin is important to most people. The entire health and condition of the skin can affect a person’s overall appearance. Many people have age spots, acne, acne scars, and sun-damaged skin, and they cannot reverse facial flaws even with a healthy skin care regimen and at-home treatments. The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery’s annual survey unveils a rising trend in facial surgery. A commonly requested cosmetic option is a chemical peel. Chemical peels can help someone target acne, poor pigmentation, dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. These peels are an ideal solution for improving the face by targeting damaged and aged skin.

Benefits of Chemical Peels:

• Safe
• Fast-acting
• Minimal recovery
• Affordable
• Lasting results
• Non-surgical

Types of Chemical Peels

Since there are several different options of combinations and enzymes, chemical peels are individualized to the patient, and each treatment is based on the severity of correction needed. So, which chemical peel do you need? Here are some of the available options:

• beta lift™: This salicylic acid peel can be used on all skin types. The beta lift™ peel can remove dead skin cells, promote new skin growth, and even out the skin tone. It works by self-neutralizing the skin for a smoother look to reduce skin oils and to treat active acne, with results produced within 24 hours.

• beta lift™ can target:

• Acne
• Poor skin pigmentation
• Vitalize Peel®: This salicylic and lactic acid peel addresses mild to moderate imperfections and is approved for use on all skin types. Patients will notice a significant reduction in wrinkles, fine lines, and roughness after one treatment, and full results are achieved after three to six peels.

• Vitalize Peel® can target:

• Dark spots
• Freckles
• Fine lines
• Acne scars
• Jessner Peel: The Jessner Peel is a combination of resorcinol, lactic acid, and salicylic acid used to penetrate and exfoliate the outer layers of the skin. It can be used on most skin types. Typically, this is the best option for patients with oily, sun-damaged skin. Patients can use one to three layers for a light/medium peel or four to six layers for a medium/deep peel.

• Jessner Peel can target:

• Acne
• Wrinkles
• Sun damage

Your Chemical Peel Treatment

Every patient will receive a personalized treatment plan based on their goals and individual needs. You will have a consultation with a skin care professional to discuss the best type of chemical peel for your skin and to determine how many treatments you will need. Recovery is minimal, and there may be some minor redness that typically subsides in a few days. With proper skin care and avoiding unhealthy habits, such as smoking and excessive alcohol use, most patients can maintain their results for many years.

To learn more about chemical peels and which one is right for you, schedule your consultation at Skin Physicians & Surgeons today! We can help you achieve beautiful, smoother facial skin. Call us at (909) 981-8929 or contact us online.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 6th, 2017 at 12:58 pm and is filed under Acne, beta lift™, Chemical Peels, Dark spots, Fast-Acting, Fine lines, Jessner Peel, Minimal Recovery, Poor skin pigmentation, Sun Damage, Vitalize Peel®, Wrinkles. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Portraying yourself as a groomed, well-put-together man often includes keeping the more wild aspects of your appearance in check. In recent years, maintaining the growth of their hair has become an increasingly popular practice among men. Every year, hundreds of thousands of men utilize laser hair removal. If you are tired of trying to control unruly, thick, or wild excess hair, then laser hair removal may be the right procedure for you.

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is an effective treatment for lessening the amount and thickness of excess or unwanted hair growth. Laser energy heats the hair follicles, damaging them and disrupting the hair growth cycle. Most patients see a noticeable improvement in the thickness of their hair growth after just one treatment. Following multiple treatments, most people achieve smooth skin with little regrowth of hair.

Why Men Choose Laser Hair Removal

Maintaining your appearance, including grooming excess hair, has become more and more important for men. From your personal life to your business presence, keeping a well-groomed appearance can be the secret to your success. Many men choose laser hair removal over other procedures because:

• It can be less painful than other hair removal methods such as waxing or threading
• It is performed less often than shaving, waxing, or threading
• It is safe to remove hair from the face, arms, legs, back, and chest
• After your treatment cycle, your hair will require less continual maintenance and removal

Is There a Long Recovery?

When people hear laser, they may assume the procedure is in-depth and can do a lot of damage to the skin. Unlike laser resurfacing treatments, laser hair removal doesn’t require a lengthy recovery period. Most patients can immediately resume their regular activities with only some mild redness of the treatment area. You shouldn’t expose the treated area to direct sunlight, and always use sunscreen when going outside.

 
If you are looking for a more permanent solution to your excess hair growth, schedule your consultation at Skin Physicians & Surgeons today. Call us at (909) 981-8928 or contact us online.  

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 27th, 2017 at 11:43 pm and is filed under Laser Hair Removal. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Acne, whether you’re a teen or an adult, is one of the most frustrating issues we have with our bodies. Not only is acne unsightly, but it can also be a painful, chronic problem that just won’t go away. Men and women with chronic nodular or cystic acne can find that their skin woes don’t end after a flare-up. Acne that occurs deep in the tissue can lead long lasting and even permanent scarring that is an unwanted reminder of an embarrassing period in your life.

Why Do We Get Acne Scars?

Acne scars form much like scars caused from cuts or burns. It’s not the acne itself causing your scars to develop but, rather, the immune response designed to help treat your acne. Cells sent to fight your acne infection can break down the surrounding tissue. Additionally, there can be an excess or scarcity of collagen fiber that helps restore tissue, which causes poor skin texture.

Types of Acne Scarring

Just like there are various forms of acne, there are various types of acne scars. Acne commonly causes atrophic, depressed scars because there is a loss of tissue during the healing process. Ice pick and boxcar scars are two typical types of atrophic scars.

Hyperpigmentation

Some people will develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following an acne flare, which can create the appearance of scarring. This hyperpigmentation can be short-lived or can last a while. The length of hyperpigmentation ultimately depends on your skin type.

Laser Treatments for Acne Scars

Laser treatments are gaining popularity for treating various forms of acne because of their success at killing acne-causing bacteria. Lasers are also ideal for treating new or old acne scarring that is marring your complexion. Since acne scars tend to be more superficial, laser treatments are ideal because they work just below the surface of your skin.

Lasers work by burning away the damaged skin, allowing for a more controlled healing of the area. New collagen production around the treatment areas smooths out surface irregularities. Patients with hyperpigmentation also notice a significant improvement in the quality of their skin tone.

Benefits of Laser Treatments

• Performed in-office and don’t require anesthesia
• Work below the surface of your skin, unlike some over-the-counter creams
• Can target various areas, including the face, neck, chest, and back
• Improve skin tone and texture
• Restore confidence by creating beautiful skin

If acne scarring is affecting your satisfaction with your skin’s appearance, schedule a consultation today at Skin Physicians & Surgeons. Call us at 909-981-8929 or contact us online.  

This entry was posted on Monday, January 30th, 2017 at 9:54 pm and is filed under Acne, Laser Treatment. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Freckles, sun spots, fairy kisses… it doesn’t matter what you call them; most everyone has moles. When melanocytes grow in clusters on the skin, a mole develops, and sun exposure and hormones can cause them to take on the traditional dark color we associate with moles. Congenital nevi are moles present at birth, while dysplastic nevi are moles that occur after birth. Unfortunately, moles have the potential to be more dangerous than you think; both types of moles can turn into skin cancer over time. So, how do you know when it’s time to see your doctor?

Know Your ABCDEs

You should monitor any suspicious mole once a month and contact your health care professional if you believe any of your moles are abnormal. A simple ABCDE rule will help you evaluate your moles for possible skin cancer. The following may be a cause for concern:

• Asymmetry – one half of your mole doesn’t match the other
• Borders – your mole has an irregular border rather than smooth, round edges
• Color – your mole is a color other than brown or has inconsistent coloring such as various shades of brown
• Diameter – your mole has a large diameter or approximately 6 mm or more
• Evolving – your mole changes in size, shape, or color at any time

Avoid Developing Skin Cancer

While you can develop skin cancer without being born with moles, congenital nevi can develop into cancer. The key for any skin type is to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. UVA and UVB rays can mutate your natural skin cells, causing uncontrollable cellular growth (cancer). Don’t stay in the sun for long periods of time. Always wear a broad-spectrum UV sunscreen, and apply it regularly when exposed to the sun for more than a few hours.

See a Physician

If you believe that you have a questionable mole, schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Physicians & Surgeons. We provide in-office screenings of possible skin cancers. We diagnose and treat all of our patients. Removing cancerous moles before they spread is the best way to keep you healthy.

Remove Unsightly Moles

Even if your mole isn’t cancerous, you can still have it removed to ensure beautiful, flawless skin. Mole removal is a simple procedure performed in our medical office. We exam all removed moles to ensure they aren’t cancerous. Great care is taken to minimize scar development to maintain the beauty of your complexion.   

 
To schedule your dermatology appointment with a doctor at Skin Physicians & Surgeons, call us at 909-981-8929 or contact us online.

This entry was posted on Thursday, January 19th, 2017 at 6:42 pm and is filed under Mole Removal, Skin Cancer. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.