Dermatology, Cosmetic Surgery, Mohs Micrographic Skin Cancer Surgery & Laser Surgery

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Category: Cosmeceuticals

The Importance of Choosing Paraben- and Phthalate-free Makeup

Makeup powder products with foundation blush and brushFor 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.

Battling Sun Damage Head On: Protect Your Hair and Scalp

Almost everyone knows that wearing sunscreen is important for protecting your skin. But have you ever stopped to think about protecting your head? Wearing sunscreen on your face isn’t enough; your hair and scalp can also receive sun damage if they are not protected. It’s easy to forget this, but the risk of sun damage and skin cancer on your scalp is very real. Here is how to protect your hair and scalp using quality Skin PS sunscreens and skin cancer treatment.

Protecting Your Hairbikini woman in hat sitting in beach chair

The sun can damage your hair as well as your scalp. If you spend a lot of time out in the sun, you may have noticed your hair turning lighter. This is because strong UV rays dry out your hair, bleach it, break it down, and make it brittle and less manageable. Ideally, you should wear a hat to protect your hair and scalp when you’re out in the sun. However, if this is not an option, apply a leave-in conditioner with UV filter protection or a hydrating hair mask with UV protection to protect your hair from damaging rays of the sun.

Protecting Your Scalp

Your scalp is somewhat protected by your hair, but it is still vulnerable to sun’s ultraviolet rays. Before exposing your head to the sun, apply water-resistant zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sunscreens to your part line or over your whole head if you have fine hair or thinning hair. To prevent premature aging, dark spots, increased blood vessels, skin cancer, and more, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater. Apply this at least 30 minutes before going out into the sun and reapply it every couple hours, especially if it’s a hot day or if you’ve been sweating or swimming. At Skin Physicians & Surgeons, our experts recommend Melashade SPF30 and Antioxidant Facial Sunscreen SPF30 to prevent and reverse sun damage.

Treating Skin Cancer

If you already have signs of sun damage on your scalp, there’s a possibility you may have skin cancer. Know how to recognize the signs of skin cancer as well as what to do if you suspect a problem. At Skin Physicians & Surgeons, we can examine a concerning area or conduct a complete skin examination for you. If skin cancer is detected on your head or neck, Dr. Sandra Lee at our practice offers Mohs Micrographic Skin Cancer Surgery. This procedure is a specialized treatment created specifically for skin cancer on the head or neck, and it has an extremely high cancer cure rate (96 to 99 percent) with minimal skin removal.

For more tips on how to protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays, to find out how to get our recommended professional sunscreens, or to schedule a cancer treatment consultation, call us at 909-981-8929 or fill out our online contact form.

Bridal Beauties

 Cosmetic Treatment for Weddings

With wedding season coming up, many brides-to-be and their bridal parties are doing everything they can to look their best. From mandatory gym time and strict diets to dedicated skin care routines and spray tans, women put themselves through a lot to prevent taking unappealing wedding pictures that would live on in infamy. With the advent of Beautiful bride and bridesmaidshigh-resolution cameras and most brides being over 25 years old, signs of aging are also an increasing concern. Many prenuptial regimens now include cosmetic treatments so that brides and their bridesmaids project a youthful and radiant appearance on the big day.

The following are some of the most popular treatments bridal beauties undergo to get wedding-day ready.

MiXto SX® CO₂ Laser Treatment

One of the most popular treatments for fiancées and bridal parties is MiXto SX® CO₂ laser skin resurfacing. This fractional laser treatment takes just 30 to 60 minutes and provides amazing skin tightening and resurfacing results with very little patient discomfort or downtime.

MiXto SX® treatment can improve the following:

  • Fine lines
  • Wrinkles
  • Acne scars
  • Sun spots
  • Enlarged pores

JUVÉDERM®

JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus and JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus XC are made of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the skin that hydrates and delivers nutrients to the cells. These formulas are injected beneath the skin to fill wrinkles and hollows to create a smoother, more natural look and feel.

JUVÉDERM® injections can improve the following:

  • Lines from the nostrils to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds)
  • Thin lips
  • Vertical lip lines
  • Hollows under the eyes

Tickle Lipo™

Tickle Lipo™ can slim down those stubborn problem areas of fat with just local anesthesia, less patient discomfort, and a faster recovery than traditional liposuction.

MedSpa Services

We offer medspa services, including chemical peels, facials, and skin blading, for those want more subtle facial rejuvenation.

Cosmeceuticals

Our cosmeceuticals treat a variety of signs of aging, including photoaging, sun spots, acne, and fine lines. Our physicians can determine the right products and treatment regimen for your unique needs and goals.

It’s best to start a healthy skin care regimen and any series of treatments at least six months prior to the wedding, and all treatments should be done at least one month before the big day. Liposuction should be performed at least four to six months before a big event to allow for all swelling and bruising to resolve.

If you’re interested in attaining a rejuvenated, radiant appearance for your big day, contact Skin Physicians & Surgeons in Upland. Call (909) 981-8929 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule your consultation and get wedding-day ready!

 

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