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How To Exfoliate Your Entire Body

MarthaStewartLiving.com posted “How To Exfoliate Your Entire Body” featuring Visha Skincare and Dr. Purvisha Patel.

The article highlights Visha Skincare’s Top2Toe, a product made with chemicals to exfoliate the skin, as well as Dr. Patel’s expert insights on how to best exfoliate your skin.

You should absolutely be exfoliating below your neck—here’s exactly how to do so.

Taking a long shower or soak in the bath aren’t the only ways to rejuvenate your skin from head to toe. Enter exfoliation, which helps rid the body of dead skin cells. While you may associate this step with your facial beauty routine, it’s just as necessary elsewhere. “The skin on the body has more sweat glands (sebaceous glands) and can tolerate stronger exfoliating cleansers and percentages of products without getting irritated or inflamed than the skin of the face,” says Dr. Purvisha Patel, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Visha Skincare. To learn more about full-body exfoliation, including the products and techniques you will need to master the method, read on.

The Benefits of Full-Body Exfoliation

This practice goes further than skin deep. “Full-body exfoliation is designed to bring rest, relaxation, and balance to your mind, body, and soul,” says Kate Broadhurst, the spa supervisor at ESPACIO Spa. When done correctly, exfoliation can both aid in healthy circulation and remove dead skins cells. According to Rosa Santana, the spa manager at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, rubbing hard and removing flaky skin during the exfoliation process will leave your dermis feeling fresh, smooth, hydrated, and soft.

Physical Exfoliation

Per Dr. Patel, there are two leading types of exfoliation. The first is physical, which should be done twice a week. “Physical exfoliation uses a tool or device to take off the dead skin layer),” she says, noting that strong physical exfoliators should be avoided on the face. Coffee grounds, salt, pumice, and micro beads (disclaimer: this last one is the least environmentally friendly) are all options, but the most common tool is a dry brush, like the Dermstore Collection Dry Brush Exfoliator with Handle ($20, dermstore.com), or loofah. “Dry brushing is a triple-threat: Not only does it help to brush off dead cells, but it also helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite and detox your body through assisting with lymphatic drainage,” Asti Yogi, the spa supervisor at Zemi Beach House, explains. “The loofah (in tandem with your own soap) also lifts dead skin cells from the top layer of your skin. Make sure to wash exfoliating instruments thoroughly after each use.”

Chemical Exfoliation

On the other end of the exfoliation spectrum are chemical products, which use acids or chemicals to loosen the bonds between the dermis’ top layer of cells. “Ingredients such as salicylic acid, alpha hydroxyl acids, and bakuchiol exfoliate the skin and open the pores,” notes Dr. Patel. “Vitamin A derivatives, such as retinol or tretinoin, also exfoliate, as well as shrink oil glands.” Luckily, testing out chemical formulas is easy; in fact, these ingredients can be found in body washes and cleansers. Consider the Visha Skincare Top2Toe ($25, vishaskincare.com), an all-over wash with bakuchiol, tea tree oil, and AHA that exfoliates and decreases the microbes on the body. “A ‘good’ cleanser will cleanse and exfoliate without compromising the natural pH of the skin (which is our great barrier of protection),” Cynthia King, the spa director at the Spa at the Inns of Aurora, says. “For a quick fix in the shower or bath, use a healing body wash with either exfoliating spa gloves or (my new favorite), a Bellabaci Copper Mitt ($21.53, bellabaci.com)—that helps to fight free radicals.”

Try It at Home

Ultimately, exfoliating treatments are soothing, whether you make a trip to the spa or opt for an at-home option. Some of King’s go-to products currently on the market? The Red Flower Ohana Gingergrass Bamboo Scrub ($68, macys.com), which is ultra-fine and great for oilier dermis, the Red Flower Lemon Coffee Olive Oil Scrub ($68, redflower.com), as it’s stimulating and detoxifying, and the Eminence Stone Crop Revitalizing Scrub ($48, dermstore.com), since it’s gentle and brightening.

You can even make your own recipe. Broadhurst recommends combining half a cup of brown sugar, half a cup of coffee grinds, and a few drops of your favorite carrier oil into a paste. From there, begin the exfoliation process by dry brushing, then exfoliating with the mixture in a hot shower or soothing bath. As for this specific formula’s benefits? “Brown sugar is a natural and gentle exfoliant, while coffee adds caffeine to improve circulation and invigorate the skin,” notes Broadhurst. Just don’t forget to moisturize when you’re through—it’s a must-do last step for soft arms and legs. “All of our scrubs conclude with a moisturizing application that has been thoughtfully chosen to complement and balance the exfoliant,” adds King.

Read the full article here.

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Demystifying The Differences Between Face Oils & Serums

Bustle posted “Demystifying The Differences Between Face Oils & Serums” featuring Dr. Purvisha Patel.

The article includes Dr. Patel’s insights on the benefits and ingredients within face oils and serums, and the most effective ways to use them in your routine.

There are so many different skin care products to choose from that your routine could be 15 steps long if you wanted it to be. But if you find yourself mixing up all the elixirs out there, know that you’re not alone.

Two such skin-boosting power players, face oils and serums, are particularly effective for achieving a gorgeous glow, although they function in different ways. The main distinguishing factor? The weight of their molecules. “A serum would be more of an aqueous solution, so it’s inherently lighter, whereas with a face oil, the main component is the oil itself,” says Dr. Anthony Rossi, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist.

Face oils are typically used to moisturize and nourish the skin, explains Dr. Peterson Pierre, M.D., a Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist. “A serum is a very versatile product packed with a high concentration of active ingredients,” he says. These actives help target more specific skin concerns (think acne and hyperpigmentation). Read on to learn more about their differences and how to incorporate each product into your skin care regimen.

We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle’s editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

What Is A Face Oil?

A face oil basically works as a moisturizer. “The oils inherently have emollient benefits, so these products tend to be moisturizing,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, M.D., a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist. In other words, it can take the place of your daily moisturizer (aka your face cream).

These formulas include a range of botanical oils featuring hydrating properties — common examples include jojoba, hempseed, apricot, and evening primrose oils. “Face oils are a mix of heavy and light fatty acids that create a barrier on the skin and help trap moisture and prevent water loss,” says Dr. Purvisha Patel, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare.

You’ll often notice benefits besides hydration, too. “Some oils have more antioxidant properties, like evening primrose,” says Rossi. Patel says these skin perks come from the oil’s lipophilic actives, aka ingredients like tea tree oil and vitamin E, that support your complexion’s outer lipid barrier. For that reason, you won’t find many water-based ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and pure vitamin C in these products, says Zeichner.

And if you’re all about that dewy skin look, Rossi says a face oil will give you that, thanks to its rich moisturizing prowess.

What Is A Serum?

Serums work for a range of concerns, like acne, discoloration, fine lines, and dryness. “The benefit depends on what the active ingredient is,” says Zeichner, adding that you can find some with brightening, exfoliating, and collagen-stimulating effects, among other perks. “Think of your serum as your supercharged skin care product,” he says.

Since serums are lighter in weight compared to face oils, they’re more easily absorbed, explains Patel. That’s also why you’ll find water-soluble ingredients — like the ones mentioned above, along with retinol and azelaic acid — in these as opposed to oils, as they’ll be more stable, aka more effective, says Patel.

Face Oils Vs. Serums

Both types of products carry ingredients that can change your complexion, says Patel. And you can use both within your routine — just look for those targeted toward your specific skin type and goals.

If you’re using them together, follow the skin care rule of applying products in order from lightest to heaviest. “So the serum would go on first. Allow that to fully dry, then the oil would go on top of that,” says Rossi. This allows the serum to be closer to your skin’s top layer for absorption, adds Patel. “A face oil is more of an occlusive product and will trap the serum on the skin,” she tells Bustle.

You’ll want to apply the serum to your entire face as well as your neck and decolletage. “Those areas are all chronically hit with UV rays, so it’s important to get those areas,” says Rossi, who suggests two pumps of the product per use. A face oil, on the other hand, spreads really easily, so a little goes a long way to cover your skin. Both serums and face oils can be used in your morning and nighttime regimens — but Patel recommends using the latter in the evening as it can inhibit how effectively your skin absorbs your sunscreen. If you’re using both, Patel says to allow the serum to soak in before applying your oil.

Not every face oil and serum combo will play well together, however. “Sometimes people are trying to do too much with their skin care routines,” says Rossi. “You might find duplicate ingredients between your serum and face oil, so you want to make sure you’re not irritating the skin too much.” Using too many actives — like retinol or chemical exfoliants — at once can sensitize the skin and lead to irritation, breakouts, or redness, so be sure to space out when you’re using your active-spiked products.

Otherwise, both of these glow-enhancing power players can level up your beauty routine.

Studies referenced:

Lin, T-K. (2018). Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/
Sethi, A. (2016). Moisturizers: The Slippery Road. Indian Journal of Dermatology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4885180/
Vaughn, A. (2018). Natural Oils for Skin-Barrier Repair: Ancient Compounds Now Backed by Modern Science. Am J Clin Dermatol. DOI: 10.1007/s40257-017-0301-1
Werschler, W. (2011). Enhanced Efficacy of a Facial Hydrating Serum in Subjects with Normal or Self-Perceived Dry Skin. The International Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3050617/

Experts:

Dr. Anthony Rossi, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist
Dr. Peterson Pierre, M.D., a Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist
Dr. Joshua Zeichner, M.D., a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist
Dr. Purvisha Patel, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare

Read the full article here.

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How to Prepare Your Feet for Sandal Season

How to Get Rid of Dead Skin on your Feet

Our feet can take a beating during the winter and spring, especially when they’re constantly wrapped up in socks and tight shoes. Here are some tips for getting your feet ready for sandals as we are counting down the days to warm weather.

Why Does the Skin on your Feet Get so Hard and Cracked?

When not consistently taken care of with a proper exfoliation and moisturization routine (particularly during colder weather), the dead skin cells on our feet can build up. Over time, this build up can get thick and crack. While often not a serious health issue, these cracks can be unsightly. When the fissures are deep enough, they can even be painful.

Quickly Remove Dead Skin from Your Feet

Any dead skin on your feet can be taken care of with proper exfoliation. An exfoliating tool, such as a pumice stone or ped egg, can be used to gently get rid of that top layer of dead skin and smooth the surface. It is best to use an exfoliating tool on wet skin after a shower or bath. The warm water helps to soften the skin, making it easier to exfoliate.

Topical products containing chemical exfoliants may also be used to help rid the feet of dead skin cells. Ingredients like lactic acid, uric acid, and glycolic acid can help gently exfoliate the dead skin on the feet and reveal smoother skin.

After exfoliating, it is essential that you moisturize your feet. A good moisturizer will help to repair any cracks on the skin and the skin barrier in general. It will also leave the skin feeling more soft and supple, and looking great for sandals.

The Best Products for Your Feet

In order to get rid of dead skin, prevent cracks, and get your feet looking soft and smooth for the summer, you need to introduce effective products into your routine. These two products will get your feet in tip-top shape – and keep them that way.

Visha Skincare Top 2 Toe

This body wash will keep your feet looking and feeling great all year round. It not only cleanses away debris, but it also has salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates. The formula also includes nourishing cacay oil, anti-inflammatory bakuchiol, cooling tea tree and peppermint oils, and other cleansing and revitalizing ingredients. This convenient 5-in-1 wash can be used not only on your feet, but also on your body, face, and hair. The wash (along with all Visha Skincare products) is free of parabens, sulfates, fragrances, hydroquinone, and gluten, and is cruelty-free.

Visha Skincare Face 2 Feet

Your feet need intense moisturization to stay smooth and supple throughout the year. Face 2 Feet is a body balm that contains shea butter, cocoa butter, sunflower oil, and natural plant-based emollients, all of which treat and soothe dry skin and keep it moisturized. This 5-in-1 body balm can be used all over the body for smooth, moisturized, strengthened, and radiant skin.

Other Tips for Your Feet

  • To prevent built up skin and cracks, and to keep your skin looking smooth, you should exfoliate your feet on a regular basis.
  • For the best results, moisturize your feet at night. It gives your feet the longest amount of uninterrupted time for the product work on your skin. Our body temperature also rises at night, which helps ingredients get absorbed into the skin.
  • A professional pedicure may help you get your feet ready for the summer. A pedicurist will be equipped with exfoliation tools you may not have at home. They’ll also have a closer view of your feet, and may be able to do a better job than you can at home.

The Bottom Line

Dead skin and cracked feet are some of the most common foot problems people face. While they are not a serious health issue, most people will want to take care of this matter as fast as possible, and get their feet looking their very best. With exfoliation and moisturization, you can quickly get your skin sandal and summer ready.

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How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs on Your Bikini Line

Ingrown hairs are frustrating to deal with, especially when they pop up around the bikini line. If you find yourself constantly dealing with ingrown hairs, read on to learn more about what causes them, how to treat them, and how to prevent them in the first place.

What Are Ingrown Hairs?

An ingrown hair is a hair that grows into the skin, rather than straight out of the hair follicle. Ingrown hairs are most common around areas where you may shave. In addition to the bikini line, this includes your armpits, chest, back, and legs. They can get painful and inflamed, particularly when there are micro infections in the follicle.

What Causes Ingrown Hairs?

Ingrown hairs are often the result of shaving, waxing, or tweezing, as the hair may grow back into the skin. Tight clothing (particularly underwear) may also cause ingrown hairs, as it prevents the hair from growing straight out of the hair follicle.
Anyone can get ingrown hairs, but they are more common in people with curly or thick hair. Curly hair in particular is more likely to curl into the skin, which is why people with this hair type are more prone to ingrown hair.

How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs

If you’re currently dealing with ingrown hairs, here are a few ways you can get rid of them:

  • Exfoliate: Scrub the affected area twice a day, using either an exfoliating glove or an exfoliating wash with a washcloth. Exfoliating will remove the build-up in the follicle that is trapping the hair inside, and it may allow the hair to come out through the skin. Be gentle with this process. Scrubbing too hard may lead to irritation and infection. With that in mind, you should also avoid squeezing the clogged follicle.
  • Try Over-the-Counter Products: An astringent (such as witch hazel) may help reduce the swelling around the ingrown hair, making it easier to get it out. Cleansers with benzoyl peroxide can also help clear the area of any infection that might have caused the ingrown hair in the first place.
  • Apply a Warm Compress: Wet a washcloth with warm water and apply it against the ingrown hair. Leave it for 10 minutes, re-wetting it with warm water as needed. This may help bring the hair closer to the surface.
  • Pull Out the Ingrown Hair: If you are comfortable with doing so, you may be able to pull out an ingrown hair using a sterilized needle or tweezers. Be extremely cautious and avoid cutting your skin, as it may cause infection.

Best Products for Ingrown Hairs

If you need a product that will minimize ingrown hairs, this cleanser will do the trick.

Visha Skincare Top 2 Toe

This all over wash has exfoliating acids which help to remove debris that clog the hair follicles. It also has antimicrobial ingredients, like tea tree oil, which limits the likelihood of infections in the hair follicle, and bakuchiol, which decreases inflammation. This cleanser is safe to use on a daily basis on the bikini line area, as well as all over the body for an effective exfoliating cleanse. This product (along with all Visha Skincare products) is free of parabens, sulfates, fragrances, hydroquinone, and gluten, and is cruelty-free.

Tips to Prevent Ingrown Hairs

  • If you want to say goodbye to ingrown hairs for good, prevention is key. Here are a few additional tips for preventing ingrown hairs on your bikini line:
  • Prior to shaving or removing hair, clean the area effectively. The Visha Skincare Top 2 Toe wash will exfoliate and fight potential infection-causing organisms with its antimicrobial ingredients.
  • Shave or remove hair in the direction of the hair growth on your bikini line. It may not make for the closest shave, but is much less likely to lead to ingrown hairs. When shaving, you should also use a sharp, multi-blade razor.
  • After shaving, dry the area thoroughly and moisturize. Products containing tea tree oil or aloe will be particularly beneficial.
  • Ingrown hairs get inflamed in warm, moist environments, so it is important to avoid these conditions. This means changing out of wet or moist clothing as soon as possible and allowing enough air to get to areas that are prone to ingrown hairs.
  • Avoid putting edible personal hygiene products (like coconut oil or olive oil) in the bikini line area (or any area prone to ingrown hairs), as they can clog pores and make ingrown hairs worse.
  • After sweating or working out, apply an antimicrobial body spray. Visha Skincare Cheek 2 Feet has witch hazel, tea tree oil, and thyme oil, which work to minimize ingrown hairs.

The Bottom Line

Ingrown hairs are annoying, especially when they pop up around the bikini line, but they can be treated. Once you’ve treated existing ingrown hairs, the best course of action is taking consistent preventative steps that will keep you ready for bikini season.

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Body Acne: Causes and Remedies

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and it is prone to many issues. One of the most common skin issues people face is body acne – and many are noticing that this problem has become increasingly apparent during quarantine. Continue reading to learn more about the causes of body acne, as well as what you can do to fight it.

What is Body Acne?

As you may have guessed, body acne refers to blemishes on the body. Body acne can occur anywhere on the body, but the scalp, back and bottom are particularly prone to these breakouts. Hairy areas of the body are generally more prone to body acne, especially when a person doesn’t shower on a daily basis or after a workout.

What Causes Body Acne?

There are four main factors that contribute to body acne. This includes follicular occlusion (where the hair follicle becomes blocked), bacterial and fungal growth within this clogged follicle, the accumulation of oil, sebum, and sweat in the follicle, and the inflammation of the follicle. The combination of these four factors leads to acne on any part of the body.

How to Get Rid of Body Acne:

To get rid of body acne, it is important to incorporate an exfoliating wash that kills bacteria and fungus into your showering routine. By using this type of wash on a daily basis, you’ll be able to decrease the bacteria and fungus on the skin – ultimately diminishing the breakout. You’ll find a recommendation for an effective body acne fighting wash below.

Of course, prevention is also key, and it is important to take a few steps to stop body acne from forming in the first place. At times like these when many people are working from home, it is easy to skip the shower for a day or two. However, it is important to shower on a daily basis with an acne-killing body wash in order to prevent follicular occlusion and the build up of oil and sweat on the skin. It is also particularly crucial to shower immediately after a workout.

Dirty and sweaty clothing will also contribute to body acne. It is important to wear a clean set of clothes every day, and to change out of sweaty gym clothes immediately after a workout to help decrease microbe growth in the hair follicles.

Best Products for Body Acne

If you’re looking to fight body acne, here is an effective body wash that will get the job done.

Visha Skincare Top 2 Toe

This wash can be used on the hair, face, and body to fight acne while still leaving the skin clean and hydrated. It effectively dissolves dirt, sweat, and excess oils, and decreases microbes on the skin to minimize and prevent body acne. The formula includes exfoliating salicylic acid, nourishing cacay oil, anti-inflammatory bakuchiol, cooling tea tree and peppermint oils, and other cleansing and revitalizing ingredients. This product (along with all Visha Skincare products) is free of parabens, sulfates, fragrances, hydroquinone, and gluten, and is cruelty-free.

Other Tips to Prevent Body Acne

In addition to the treatment and preventative tips mentioned above, here are a few tips you should keep in mind while fighting body acne:

  • Wear looser clothing, as it allows in airflow and helps prevent occlusion of the pores, which contributes to body acne.
  • During quarantine, many people aren’t getting enough vitamin D on a daily basis, and some people are more prone to acne and rashes when they are vitamin D deficient. Aim to get some sunshine for at least 30 minutes every day. Expose 30% of your body to help it produce vitamin D. Be sure to wear an SPF of at least 30.
  • For your acne and your overall health, drink six glasses of water every day. Also be sure to get eight hours of sleep each night, and take a probiotic and a multivitamin daily.
  • Many of our eating habits have been thrown off course during the pandemic. Take note of what you are eating on a daily basis, and avoid inflammatory foods. This includes sugar, dairy, and gluten.

The Bottom Line

Most people will face body acne at least once in their lives, and in a time like now when our routines and habits have shifted, the issue can be particularly prevalent. If you’re dealing with body acne, follow the treatment and preventative steps outlined above, and you’ll be on your way to clear and smooth skin from head to toe.

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Acne Scars and Dark Spots: Causes and Remedies

Unfortunately for many with acne-prone skin, the frustration doesn’t stop once a blemish is healed. Marks in the form of acne scars or dark spots linger on, and it can be difficult to get rid of them. Continue reading to learn more about acne scars and dark spots, as well as the products and professional treatments you can use to fade them.

What are Acne Scars?

Acne scars are typically caused by more moderate to severe acne. When a blemish is inflamed, the body responds by creating either an excess or too little tissue to try to heal the spot, treating it as an injury. This results in an acne scar.
These scars result in a textural change in the skin, around the spot where the blemish existed. With an excess of tissue, a raised scar is produced (called hypertrophic scars). With too little tissue, a depressed scar is produced (called atrophic scars). These types of acne scars don’t fade on their own, and typically require treatment from a professional in order to fully diminish their appearance.

What are Dark Spots?

Dark spots from acne (or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) are often referred to as acne scars. However, since they don’t deal with an excess or loss of tissue, they aren’t technically scars.

These spots are simply a discoloration of the skin. As with the acne scars mentioned above, these discolored spots are formed as your body is trying to heal itself from the injury of the breakout. Melanocytes (which are pigment producing cells distributed throughout the skin) swell when they are exposed to inflammation, creating these discolored, flat spots.

Over time, these spots generally fade on their own. However, there are professional treatments and over-the-counter products you can use to speed up the process.

What Causes Acne Scars and Dark Spots?

Acne scars and dark spots are both usually the result of inflammation of a pimple. This inflammation may come from the pimple itself. However, any trauma caused to the blemish (such as through picking or squeezing it) can also cause an acne scar or dark spot to form.

How Do You Get Rid of Acne Scars and Dark Spots?

There are both professional treatments and over-the-counter products you can try to minimize the appearance of acne scars and dark spots. For over-the-counter products, it is important to look for exfoliating ingredients, such as retinol, azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and AHAs (like glycolic and lactic acid). These types of ingredients work by essentially tricking the skin into thinking it is being wounded. The top layer of skin is sloughed away and the production of collagen is promoted, resulting in decreased acne scars and lightened dark spots.

For acne scars, professional treatments options include chemical peels, microneedling, and lasers. Dark spots are best treated with either lasers or chemical peels. Multiple sessions may be needed to fully fade spots or scars. Meet with a dermatologist to determine which type and strength of treatment will work best for your specific needs.

Dark spots can also be faded using a prescribed hydroquinone cream, which lightens the skin. However, hydroquinone has been found to be toxic, and should not be used for more than 12 weeks.

The Best Products to Try for Acne Scars

If you want to try an over-the-counter product to minimize the appearance of dark spots or acne scars, try out these two effective options:

Visha Skincare Advanced Correcting Serum with Illuminotex™

This multitasking anti-aging serum contains a variety of active ingredients that both decrease and prevent breakouts and minimize scarring and spots. The formula includes retinol, vitamin E, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and azelaic acid, all of which work to exfoliate, brighten, and even out the skin tone. There is also Illuminotex™, a natural skin-lightening complex that is safer than hydroquinone. Beyond minimizing the appearance of dark spots and scars, these ingredients boost collagen production, soften wrinkles, and minimize the appearance of pores.

Visha Skincare Advanced Purifying Cleanser

This effective cleanser features zinc, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and citric acid, which work to prevent and treat pimples while also exfoliating the skin to decrease scarring. The active ingredients also help to reduce redness and irritation. It is free of sulfates and parabens, and can be used twice daily to effectively cleanse debris and residue and reveal smoother, more even toned skin.

The Bottom Line

Acne scars and dark spots plague many acne sufferers, but thankfully they can be treated, either with professional treatments or over-the-counter products. In order to prevent these scars from getting darker and more noticeable while you are trying to diminish them, be sure you are wearing an SPF of at least 30 on a daily basis. This will decrease the exposure of the inflamed skin to UV radiation.

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Plant Stem Cells for Skin Care: Benefits

Plant stem cells have become a buzzy skincare ingredient, but what are their actual benefits? We’ll discuss the effectiveness of plant stem cells, and how they are used in skin care products.

What Are Plant Stem Cells?

Plant stem cells are undifferentiated cells that are found in the meristems of plants. They are able to divide in order to produce more stem cells, and can also become specialized cells. After injury, these stem cells help to stimulate and regenerate tissue to repair damage in a plant.

How are Plant Stem Cells Used in Skin Care Products

In skin care products, an extract of the plant stem cells is used, rather than the actual cells, as the cells would be dead by the time they hit the skin and have no effect. In order for them to be effective, these extracts need to be in a formula that is water soluble and has a low pH, since the extracts are naturally acidic.

On labels, plant stem cells may be called phyto cells, plant extracts, or fruit extracts. Since not all plants have been proven to show efficacy with their stem cells, it is important to look at where a brand sources their plant stem cells, and if they have clinical trials to back up their claims.

Benefits of Using Plant Stem Cells for Skin Care

The use of plant stem cells in skin care was originally studied in Switzerland, using the stem cells from Swiss apples. The extracts from the plant stem cells were found to reverse the aging process of cultured fibroblasts, which are active cells in connective tissue. An initial study found that these extracts decreased the appearance of crow’s feet, and following studies found the plant stem cells showed efficacy in wound healing and repairing the skin.

These findings show that plant stem cell extracts may be effective in fighting the signs of aging. It is important to note, however, that the benefits of plant stem cells come from the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are found in the extracts – not because plant stem cells are regenerative. Even if active plant stem cells were directly applied to the skin, they would not be able to repair and regenerate human skin as they would plants. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are still great for protecting against damaging free radicals and preventing fine lines and wrinkles.

Plant stem cell extracts are most beneficial when combined with exfoliating ingredients, such as retinol, bakuchiol, and alpha-hydroxy acids. The extracts could also be beneficial when applied after procedures that wound the skin on a micro level, such as chemical peels, microneedling, and dermaplaning.

Products to Heal and Repair Your Skin

While plant stem cells can work to get more youthful skin, they are just one of hundreds of potential skin care ingredients. Visha Skincare products contain a variety of active ingredients that have been proven to be effective in improving the overall appearance of skin. Here are two products that are particularly powerful when it comes to fighting the signs of aging and revealing glowing, even skin.

Visha Skincare Advanced Correcting Serum with Illuminotex™

This multitasking anti-aging serum is full of ingredients that improve the overall appearance of the skin while still keeping it hydrated. It contains a variety of active ingredients, including exfoliating acids, retinol, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and Illuminotex™, a skin-brightening complex that addresses aging and hyperpigmentation. These potent ingredients boost collagen production, soften wrinkles, minimize sun spots and hyper-pigmentation, improve skin texture, and minimize the appearance of pores. This powerful anti-aging serum can be used twice a day for the best results.

Visha Skincare Advanced Bright Eye Booster

This effective eye cream combines peptide technology with moisturizing hyaluronic acid, stimulating caffeine, and brightening emblica extract, along with other hydrating and rejuvenating plant-based ingredients. The 4-in-1 eye cream reduces puffiness, moisturizes, reduces wrinkles, and minimizes the appearance of under-eye dark circles for a brighter and more youthful appearance. For the best results, this potent eye cream can be applied morning and night.

The Bottom Line

There are benefits to using plant stem cell extracts in skin care, and they do contribute towards fighting the visible signs of aging. However, their benefits come from the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and not because they regenerate and repair human skin the same way they do plants. They can be a nice addition to a skin care product, but are not the only gateway towards youthful, glowing skin.

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4 Surprising Natural Anti-Aging Skincare Ingredients

Many skin care enthusiasts are turning to natural topical products to fight signs of aging. Here is information on 4 interesting natural anti-aging skin care ingredients and how they actually work on the skin.

Do Natural Anti-Aging Ingredients Work?

While natural skin care products are popular, many are skeptical about whether these ingredients are actually effective. Do natural anti-aging ingredients work? The answer is the same for both synthetic and natural ingredients: some work, while others don’t. Skin care ingredients (regardless of their source) that have been studied and proven to be effective are the best bet for youthful, glowing skin.

4 Natural Anti-Aging Skin Care Ingredients

There are plenty of natural skin care ingredients out there, but these unique ingredients each have their own surprising skin benefits.

Yogurt

Probiotic-rich yogurt is known for being good for gut health, but this fridge staple is also wonderful for the skin. The anti-aging properties of yogurt come from the lactic acid and the probiotics. Lactic acid, which is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), is a chemical exfoliant that promotes skin turnover. This reveals brighter skin and helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The probiotics in yogurt also help reduce inflammation and hydrate the skin. For an anti-aging mask experience, unflavored yogurt can be applied to clean skin and washed off after 10 to 15 minutes.

Algae Extract

Algae extract is packed with anti-aging and overall skin health benefits. There are a variety of types of algae, each of which offers their own benefits. However, in general, algae is packed with vital trace elements that help with the firmness, suppleness, and elasticity of the skin, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, and silicon. Algae extract also inhibits collagenase, an enzyme that breaks down collagen, meaning it assists with reversing the processes that lead to signs of aging. On top of these benefits, algae is extremely moisturizing, as it is water-binding.

Urea

Urea is a component of urine, and is also found in the skin’s natural barrier. Synthetic urea is commonly used in topical skin products because it is hydrophilic – meaning it is water-loving. Since urea has the impressive ability to hold onto water molecules, it is deeply hydrating to the skin. In larger concentrations, urea has keratolytic properties, meaning it breaks down the bond between dead skin cells and naturally exfoliates the skin, revealing smoother and brighter skin that is better able to absorb other skin care ingredients. Both the hydrating and exfoliating abilities of urea make it an excellent natural anti-aging skin care ingredient.

Snail Extract

Snail extract in skin care can be traced back to ancient Greece, but it has become particularly popular in modern times, especially in Asia. There are actual facial treatments where snails are put on the skin and crawl over the surface, but those who aren’t on-board with this method can also find snail extract in bottled topical skin care products. Regardless of the form, it is believed that the enzymes in the snail extract (which is technically mucus) exfoliate the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, while also helping with water retention for more hydrated and supple skin.

Anti-Aging Skin Care Products

If you’re looking for skin care products with potent ingredients that are proven to be effective, take a look at these two anti-aging products from Visha Skincare. All Visha Skincare products are free of parabens, sulfates, gluten, fragrances, and hydroquinone, and are cruelty-free.

Visha Skincare Advanced Correcting Serum with Illuminotex™

This multitasking anti-aging serum is full of ingredients that improve the overall appearance of the skin while still keeping it hydrated. The active ingredients boost collagen production, soften wrinkles, minimize sun spots and hyper-pigmentation, improve skin texture, and minimize the appearance of pores. The formula contains hyaluronic acid, a naturally-occurring humectant that significantly boosts hydration levels. It also contains exfoliating acids (including lactic acid, the AHA that makes yogurt so effective), retinol, and Illuminotex™, a skin-brightening complex that addresses aging and hyperpigmentation.

Visha Skincare Advanced Bright Eye Booster

This plant-based eye cream combines peptide technology with powerful ingredients that reduce puffiness, moisturize, reduce wrinkles, and minimize the appearance of under-eye dark circles for a brighter and more youthful appearance. The cream contains moisturizing hyaluronic acid, stimulating caffeine, and brightening emblica extract, along with other hydrating and rejuvenating plant-based ingredients. For the best results, this potent eye cream can be applied morning and night.

Final Thoughts

The right natural anti-aging skin care ingredients can effectively fight the signs of aging and reveal youthful skin. While you don’t have to go all natural, by selecting powerful ingredients (both natural and synthetic) that have been proven to be effective, you’ll be on your way towards glowing, rejuvenated skin.

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5 Pregnancy Safe Skin Care Tips

The body experiences a host of changes during pregnancy, and it’s no surprise that these shifts visually manifest on the skin. We’ll take a look at some of the most common skin issues that pregnant women face, as well as the best tips and products for a pregnancy-safe skincare routine.

Common Skin Issues While Pregnant 

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can trigger an increase in oil production, which often leads to an increase in acne. Women also tend to sweat more while pregnant, and in turn experience sweat rashes. 

Stretch marks are also very common during pregnancy, and they can appear across the belly and breasts. While genetics play a part in the development of stretch marks, there are some preventative steps that pregnant women can take to minimize their appearance. 

Pregnant women who get a lot of unprotected sun exposure may also experience melasma (also known as the mask of pregnancy). The combination of the sun and hormonal changes leads to these large pigmented spots, which typically occur on the face. 

5 Pregnancy Safe Skincare Tips

If you are pregnant, here are a few tips to maintain an effective and safe skincare routine. 

  1. Avoid salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinol. While you may have turned to these ingredients for fighting acne and signs of aging in the past, it is important to cease use during this time, as they aren’t safe to use while pregnant.
  2. If you are dealing with hormonal breakouts, some ingredients that are effective and safe to use during pregnancy include glycolic acid, lactic acid, tea tree oil, zinc, and sulfur. All of these ingredients will help prevent acne and reduce current breakouts.
  3. Botox and other neurotoxins should also be avoided during pregnancy. As an alternative, pregnant women can safely use fillers if desired.
  4. Regularly moisturize from head to toe. It is particularly important to moisturize the belly, as it not only helps prevent stretch marks, but it can also fight off any itchiness that comes with the stretching skin.
  5. Apply an SPF product daily. Sun protection is always important, but it is particularly vital for pregnant women, since they are more prone to melasma. In order to prevent melasma and general sun damage to the skin, it is essential that pregnant women apply a product with SPF 30 or higher on a daily basis. 

Best Pregnancy Safe Beauty Products

If you are looking for skincare products to use while pregnant, these are not only safe to use, but incredibly effective: 

Visha Skincare Mommy Purifying Cleanser

This cleanser was created to effectively remove pollutants and residue from the skin while addressing hormonal breakouts that many women deal with during pregnancy. It includes many pregnancy-safe skincare ingredients that decrease inflammation and refine the skin’s texture, including zinc, mild fruit acids, and vitamin B5. The Mommy Purifying Cleanser (along with all Visha Skincare products) is free of parabens, sulfates, fragrances, hydroquinone, and gluten. It can be used twice a day. 

Visha Skincare Mommy Brightener with Illuminotex-™

This 5-in-1 serum is ideal for women dealing with hyperpigmentation and acne caused by hormonal changes. It contains pregnancy-safe exfoliants that clear the pores of acne-causing debris and stimulate collagen production, resulting in firmer, more radiant skin. It also diminishes hyperpigmentation, softens fine lines and wrinkles, minimizes the appearance of pores, and fades the appearance of scars. 

Visha Skincare Mommy Bright Eye Booster

 

This pregnancy-safe eye cream addresses a multitude of concerns, including puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines and wrinkles. It has a plant-based peptide technology, emblica extract, and vitamins that improve the overall appearance of the eye area. The gentle eye cream also increases hydration and moisture, helping to soothe and protect the delicate eye area. 

Visha Skincare Bump 2 Baby

If you’re concerned about stretch marks and dry skin, this multitasking body balm will give your skin the moisture that it needs. The Bump 2 Baby body balm not only moisturizes, but it also encourages the skin’s natural elasticity, minimizes emerging stretch marks, and strengthens thinning skin. It also soothes and relieves dry skin, which is particularly useful for pregnant women experiencing itchiness. The body balm is safe to use not only during pregnancy, but also while nursing to continue to prevent stretch marks and moisturize the skin. 

Final Thoughts

Women have to make a few adjustments to their skincare routine during pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean an effective skincare regimen should be thrown out the window. By using targeted products that treat skin issues related to pregnancy, pregnant women can have radiant, clear skin from head to toe.

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The Science Behind Laser Hair Removal

Lasers and IPLs have been used for permanent hair reduction and skin rejuvenation treatments for many years. Although both IPL and Laser are light-based technologies, there are distinct differences between the two. Lasers use a single wavelength of coherent light while IPLs utilize various wavelengths of incoherent light. There is a great assortment of IPL machines operating. Different IPL equipment would usually operate on different wavelengths and parameters.

Visha Medi Spa, located inside Advanced Dermatology, is proud to offer the most effective, advanced, and safe Laser Hair Removal treatment options for your cosmetic skin care needs. Call 901-759-2322 or request a FREE Laser Hair Removal consultation online today!

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Lasers and IPLs have been used for permanent hair reduction and skin rejuvenation treatments for many years. Although both IPL and Laser are light-based technologies, there are distinct differences between the two. Light is a component of the electromagnetic wave spectrum. The name itself stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (L A S E R). To understand how LASERs work we need to understand two terms: coherent and incoherent light.

Incoherent Light is emitted by normal means such as a flash light or a bulb. The photons of the many wave frequencies of light are oscillating in different directions ( IPL systems), therefore photons will dissipate before reaching the follicle.

Coherent light is a beam of photons (almost like particles of light waves) that have the same frequency and are all at the same frequency. Only a beam of laser light will not spread and diffuse. In Genuine lasers, waves are identical and in phase, which produces a beam of coherent light. To achieve best results for Laser Hair Removal, Coherent Light is required in order to accurately target the follicle.

Laser Hair Removal Wavelength

  • Longer (Scatter less)
  • Deeper penetration (Less Epidermal damage)
    • Long Pulsed Ruby Laser —- (694 nm)
    • Long Pulse Alexandrite Laser —- (755 nm) (GentleMax)
    • Pulsed Diode Laser —- (800 nm)
    • Long Pulsed Nd: YAG —- (1064 nm)
    • Flash Lamp System —- (515 – 1200 nm)

Laser Hair Removal Pulse Duration

  • Longer (ensures best results)
  • Precise rapid heating without damaging surrounding area (Selective Photothermolysis)

Spot Size

  • Bigger the spot size the better results

Laser Types Used With Laser Hair Removal

The majority of Pulsed Light (PL) Systems work on the same principle, that is: computer generated Pulsed Light with an incoherent light wave pattern. The manufacturers invent many of the names for new Pulsed Light (PL) Systems for the purposes of describing the point of difference of their equipment compared to their competitors.

Some machines are simple IPLs, others are SPLs, APL or VPLs, then there are SLPLs… All this can be very confusing. So the important thing to remember is that anything “PL” – is a Pulse Light systems and NOT Genuine Laser.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light is the name of the technology Intense PulseLight (IPL) is a light-based technology. It works by delivering shots of light of many different incoherent wavelengths over the area being treated. There are many variations of IPL machines currently available and new ones arrive every day.

Super Long Pulsed Light (SLPL)

This abbreviation stands for Super Long Pulsed Light. As the name obviously suggests pulses or shots are longer in duration. However, this does not necessarily mean better results. The wave light pattern is still incoherent.

Variable Pulse Light (VPL)

V stands for Variable pulse. This allows for multi-pulsing (several pulses of light within each shot) is still incoherent

Square Pulse Light (SPL)

S, in this example, stands for Square Pulse Light. This means the light is equally disbursed under the skin and it takes a lot less energy to achieve the same effect as it would with a “standard” pulse. SPLs are usually lower energy machines with an incoherent wave pattern.

Candela GentleYag and Candela GentleMax vs. Other Technology

The Candela GentleYag used at Visha Med Spa has the largest spot size (18mm diameter), combining together characteristics that enable deeper penetration by laser energy of the targeted area and faster treatments than early forms of Laser hair Removal machines such as, Long Pulse Ruby, Diode Lasers, and Flash-lamp devices (we also carry Roher Aesthetics as well).

The Candela GentleMax also has the largest spot size (18mm diameter), combining together characteristics that enable deeper penetration by laser energy of the targeted area and faster treatments than early forms of Laser hair Removal machines such as, Long Pulse Ruby, Diode Lasers, and Flash- lamp devices.

Is Laser Hair Removal Right For Me?

Various wavelengths of light absorb into (and effect) different substances (chromophores) in our skin and body differently and this can make it very difficult for the consumer to choose the correct laser machine. The machine would have to suit their particular skin and hair type and tone as well as be suitable for treatment of that person’s particular condition (hair removal or pigmentation treatment etc.). At Visha Med Spa, we have the ability to customize our treatments due to the fact we offer both of these laser technologies.

This means that two different people may respond to laser hair removal treatment on the same equipment completely differently. At Visha Med Spa we use Candela GentleYag most often (Alexandrite Laser).The Candela GentleYag has a longer wavelength (755nm), and high energy (100J/cm2) well suited to safer for darker skin tones, and effective Hair Removal.

At Visha Med Spa we have many years of experience working with lasers which sets us apart in industry as leaders among our community in the esthetic arena, and we strongly encourage you to spend some time researching your chosen Laser Hair Removal Clinic, and the equipment it uses.

Contact Visha Med Spa at 901-759-2322 or request a FREE Laser Hair Removal consultation online to discuss a treatment plan that suits your needs with our trained, qualified and experienced laser hair removal technician.

Call 901-759-2322 or request an appointment online today.