Blog

The morning after a night of alcohol is not only painful for your head, but your skin also takes a beating. The effects of alcohol can be visible for a much longer time than people think on their skin, and can effect how it looks for a month!

Your skin’s worst enemy

Our skin is our bodies’ largest organ, and it takes a battering every time we drink alcohol, which is a hepatotoxin.

This means it’s a toxin to the cells that detoxify your body (i.e. the liver), so our heavy nights show in our skin.

Factor in its dehydrating properties (also responsible for that ‘cat litter tray’ taste in our mouths the morning after) the chemical congeners and high sugar content, and it’s no wonder our skin holds a grudge.

Learn more about how alcohol effects how your skin looks at: www.mirror.co.uk/news/weird-news/how-long-takes-your-skin-8466212

Keep your skin healthy and soft after removing any unwanted hair. To learn about aftercare for your laser treatments go here!

Be honest, how often do you apply and then reapply sunscreen when you workout or train? According to new studies, athletes are at a higher risk for skin damage. 

Greater risk

Researchers think intense training exacerbates athletes’ risks of skin damage. In the study on marathon runners, it was suggested that their training regime may have left them more vulnerable by lowering their immunity. Although not precisely understood, some experts think that the kind of physical trauma resulting from hard workouts can trigger the release of cytokines, proteins that might limit the ability of the immune system to fight potential cancers.

Sweat can make matters worse. Any kind of moisture on the skin reduces damaging UV light to shorter wavelengths that are more easily absorbed. This lowers the minimal erythema dose, the lowest ultraviolet (UV) light exposure or level of radiation needed to turn the skin a risky shade of pink, making sunburn more likely.

A study last year showed that 40% of BCCs appear around the nose. “That is partly because the nose protrudes from the face, making it more exposed,” Dr Shergill says. “But also because sweat runs down the nose removing any sunscreen that is applied.”

Take action

Dermatologists advise wearing sunscreen from April through to late September and on all bright days at other times of the year, applying factor 50 half an hour before an outdoor session. Look for a brand with UVA and UVB protection and children’s sunscreens do the job for adults and are cheaper because no VAT is added. Clothing with integrated SPF is not worth the expense.

“An SPF 15 fabric only provides protection for around 15 minutes in strong sunlight,” Dr Shergill says. “Remember that sunscreen starts to lose effectiveness at about the two-hour mark, sooner if you are sweating heavily. Stick formulations are good to carry with you.”

Keep your skin healthy and soft after removing any unwanted hair. To learn about aftercare for your laser treatments go here!

SRC: www.athleticsweekly.com/featured/athlete-health-skin-protection-47101

Some people have some questions about laser hair removal treatment. Here are a few frequently asked questions, answered.

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a hair removal procedure that has been practiced since 1997. It is a procedure which is performed by a specially-trained laser specialist or doctor, and is conducted by pointing a long pulse laser at a region of desired hair removal. The ultimate result of laser hair removal is disabling hair follicles from producing hair, resulting in permanent hair removal. Since hair grows in cycles, to completely eliminate hair growth, 6-8 treatments (at intervals of 8-12 weeks) are needed to achieve the desired result. 

 

Is laser hair removal for men?

Men and women utilize laser treatment for permanent hair removal.

Read the rest at: www.lasersmoothcompany.com/faqs/

Pimples are some of the most annoying things to deal with, especially in summer when you want to be showing off your skin. Here are a few tips for getting rid of pimples.

What’s the best prevention and treatment?

Wash your face regularly and gently. People often think scrubbing will prevent blackheads, but it increases the shedding of skin cells and causes further clogging of the pores, Karen noted.

Remove any makeup before you exercise and wash your face afterwards, or use face wipes to get rid of the dirt and sweat so your pores can breathe a little bit more, she added.

Once blackheads and pimples appear, there are many options.

“We need to unplug the pore, calm down the bacteria and the inflammation, and control the oil production,” Jacob said.

• Salicylic acid helps rid the skin of the dead skin cells that are clogging the pores.
• Benzoyl peroxide is anti-inflammatory, so it limits the inflammation that leads to pimples or pustules. (It bleaches towels, clothing and bedding, so use white towels or wash it off completely, Karen cautioned.)
• Vitamin A creams, or topical retinoids, help to unplug the pores, fade away pink spots and decrease inflammation. Not everybody can tolerate them because they tend to be very irritating, Karen noted. You have to try them slowly in small amounts. Be aware they can make you more sun sensitive.
• Antibiotics, given topically or orally, can be of some help to decrease inflammation.

Should you ever pop or squeeze?

Don’t do it! Our experts warned that while picking can be tempting, it can lead to small scarring.

You might also increase the amount of inflammation that’s already there.

You’d be better off putting benzoyl peroxide on a pimple than to try to pop it, Jacob said.

There is one time it’s OK to squeeze, according to Karen. If a blackhead is “super ripe” and you absolutely can’t resist getting rid of it:

• Clean your face and use clean fingers
• very gently apply pressure to the periphery of the black bump

Keep your skin healthy and soft after removing any unwanted hair. To learn about aftercare for your laser treatments go here!

SRC: www.today.com/health/pimples-blackheads-101-how-clear-those-dreaded-skin-blemishes-t100239

Laser Smooth Company offers many specials on hair removal so you can keep your legs smooth and your wallet healthy. Whether you need a large area covered or just a small spot treatment, you can count on us.

Package Treatments
$99 Per Treatment Armpits and Brazilian pay as you go, expires 12/31/2016	$99 Per Treatment Full Back and Neck pay as you go, expires 12/31/2016

 

Single Treatments
Small Treatment Areas 1/$35 or 6/$149 expires 6/31/2016	Medium Treatment Areas 1/$60 or 6/$249 expires 6/31/2016

As always you can visit for a free consultation. Learn more about our specials at: www.lasersmoothcompany.com/specials/

If you want wonderful glowing summertime skin here are a few protips and tricks to help you.

PRO TIP: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

We have all heard this time and time again, but it always merits repeating: hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Robin Haney of Apropos Day Spa recommends the age-old trick of drinking lots of water. “Add cucumber to your water pitcher and leave it in the fridge. It tastes wonderful, is extra hydrating and can also be used as a compress to sooth red skin and to make cotton pads for tired and puffy eyes,” she shares.

“Well-hydrated skin is essential to promote healthy skin and protect against aging,” adds Dr. Lorien Sties, a dermatologist from Saint Thomas Health and Nashville Skin & Cancer. She suggests a non-surfactant soap or products with hyaluronic acid — for hydration and repair as well as a gentle moisturizer.

Another way to keep skin hydrated is with a toning mist. “If you are overheated, it is a great way to cool down and stay hydrated,” Mary Kathryn Yeiser of Therapy Systems, Inc. says. “We recommend keeping a travel-sized toning mist in your purse.”

PRO TIP: Double cleanse.

It comes as no surprise that Margaret de Heinrich, founder of Omorovicza, is full of tips and tricks for mastering skincare. One of our favorite tips is her recommendation to double cleanse. “I am often surprised that women don’t see cleansing as key. It is the absolute foundation of great, beautiful skin that is clarified and detoxified,” she tells us.

PRO TIP: Protection is key.

Avoiding the sun from the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. is ideal, advises Cathy Pardue of Belle Meade Dermatology Skin and Laser Center. If you happen to be in the sun during these hours, Cathy suggests, “Use moisturizer and a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher in the morning and wear a big-brimmed hat or a hat with SPF 50 sunscreen protection already builtin.” Robin Haney of Apropos Day Spa also recommends covering up. “Wear hats and SPF clothing that will cover your arms, chest and back of your neck if you’re going to be exposed for long periods (at the beach or lake, driving in a convertible, etc.). There are so many stylish options now from Coolibar and Sun Precautions — and, you don’t have to apply as much sunscreen.” When you are applying your sunscreen, do so 20 minutes before going outside and continue to apply every couple of hours throughout the day. “You need to give the products time to penetrate,” Robin explains. 

 

PRO TIP: Exfoliating has its benefits.

Exfoliating is beneficial and it is essential to get clear, clean, rejuvenated skin. “Regularly sloughing off the top layer of dead skin cells not only uncovers brighter skin, but it also prevents pores from getting clogged,” says Laurie Hays of Facial Rejuvenation Center. “I suggest everyday exfoliation using a combination of alpha and beta hydroxy acids such as glycolic and salicylic. Daily peels are like a steady exercise to the skin, it is far better to use something every day that is not super concentrated than to use something radical at once.” Mary Kathryn Yeiser of Therapy Systems, Inc. agrees with the importance of keeping up your exfoliation in the summer months but she steers towards something a bit more gentle for the skin. “An enzyme is a great alternative, because they still provide exfoliation but are more gentle.” she says.

PRO TIP: Pamper more than just your face.

Your face isn’t the only part of your body that takes a beating from the sun and summer heat. When updating your skincare routine for summer, pay attention to your feet, hands and body — they need some extra lovin’ too. “The sun is very drying to the skin and causes an excess build up of dead cells … body skin needs exfoliating and regular hydration with body lotion. And be sure to apply SPF to hands and feet,” Robin Haney of Apropos Day Spa reminds us.

“In the summer, your feet can’t catch a break,” Dr. Sites of Saint Thomas Health. Wearing sandals or flip flops can lead to painful cracks and calluses, which distract from that pretty pedicure. Use a foot file, emery board or pumice stone to gently rub away hard skin. Then, apply a rich moisturizing cream to soften the skin.”

PRO TIP: Wear makeup that won’t melt off.

Of course you can still wear makeup in the heat — just make sure it is the right makeup. Robin Haney of Apropos Day Spa likes Jane Iredale’s mineral foundation, which gives you coverage, SPF 22 and an extra layer of protection, without feeling mask-like as the heat index climbs. “Also, use waterproof lipliner to define and fill in lips completely for an opaque protection,” she says.

Keep your skin healthy and soft after removing any unwanted hair. To learn about aftercare for your laser treatments go here!

SRC: styleblueprint.com/nashville/everyday/summer-skincare/

Eating the right foods can help your body have an extra layer of protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays besides sun screen. here is a list of 13 foods that can help protect you from the sun’s damage.

1. Beta-Carotene Foods

Known for their “orange, yellow-ish” hue, foods that are rich in beta-carotene are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins to protect your eyes and skin from sun damage.”Foods rich in beta-carotene, such as mango, cantaloupe and sweet potato seem to offer some protection,” says dietician Keri Gans, MS, RDN, CDN, a spokesperson for America’s Better Sandwich, over email correspondence with Bustle. Enjoy a few slices of melon or mango, or fill a sweet potato with your favorite proteins and veggies.

2. Tomatoes

Loaded with lycopene and flavanols, tomatoes can increase sun protection. In conjunction with an oil for maximum absorption, it’s even better. “Eggplant, black beans and tomato are rich in flavanols that may help protect against sun damage,” advises Gans. Enjoying tomato juice, or throwing a few slices of eggplant or tomato in a sandwich or atop a salad can keep your skin safe and beautiful.

3. Olive Oil

Olive oil is filled with healthy fats, which can protect your skin from damage and inflammation due to the healthy omega 3 content, as well as vitamin E, proven to keep skin safe. Gans recommends dipping whole grain or wheat bread in olive oil, as whole wheat is also high in vitamin E. “One hundred percent whole wheat and olive oil contain vitamin E, which also has been associated with protection again sun damage,” says Gans. You can also eat fresh olives for the same benefits!

4. Soy

Due to isoflavones, soy products, such as tofu, edamame, soy milk and tempeh, can boost collagen in the skin, delay onset of wrinkles and protect against cancer. Eating foods rich in soy can lower risk of cancer and disease, which can be beneficial in preventing skin cancer and keeping cells healthier. Tofu is also high in other vitamins, like vitamin E, to offer protection.

5. Chocolate

Beyond sun-protecting benefits, dark chocolate (darker the better for antioxidants and health benefits!), is high in antioxidants to promote anti-inflammation, cognitive health, and reduced stress. “Chocolate has flavonoids such as epicatechins, catechins, procyandins,” says a registered dietician and nutritionist Kelly Springer, RD, over email with Bustle. “These flavonoids acts like antioxidants and help to protect us from damage from the sun,” she adds. Plus, who can say no to some chocolate, right?

6. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale and Swiss chard, has properties that can protect you from the sun. The darker the leaf, the better, as there are more free-radical fighting antioxidants in those with darker hues. Enjoy a salad in the summertime and squeeze lemon and olive oil for a dressing that can boost absorption and supply an extra dose of sun-protection.

7. Fruits High In Vitamin C

Studies show that vitamin C can prevent cancer cells from forming within the body and can boost collagen production in the skin, leading to tauter skin and delayed aging symptoms. The three fruits highest in vitamin C are strawberries, oranges and kiwi, with kiwi being the true all-star. Per ounce, kiwis have more vitamin C than any other fruit! Side note: there’s tons of fiber in the skin, so don’t be afraid to bite in like an apple.

8. Green Tea

Green tea, as well as black tea, is high in polyphenols found to protect against UV radiation. Brewing a cup of green tea or sipping an iced blend with citrus and fruits is a great way to get some cancer-fighting antioxidants and anti-aging benefits to keep skin firm, healthy and beautiful. Drinking two or more cups daily may reduce your risk of skin cancer by 30 percent. Cheers to that!

9. Broccoli

Broccoli, as well as other cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and bok choy, contains a property called sulphoraphane, which has been shown to provide anti-cancerous benefits and can protect skin cells from free radical, sun damage. Enjoy broccoli as a side with fish or toss in a breakfast omelet. Adding in these veggies is easy and delicious.

10. Foods High Omega 3s

Omega 3 fatty acids have been found to do wonders for the skin. Besides keeping skin taut, glowing and acne-free, they can also offer sun protection. Studies show that consuming omega 3s, especially in the form of fish oil supplements, can lower risk of skin cancer and keep skin safe from the sun and its free radicals. Eat salmon, walnuts, hemp, flax and chia seeds, and lettuce, such as romaine, for great benefits.

11. Red Delicious Apples

An apple a day can keep your skin healthy and sun-damage free. However, only if you eat the skin! Research shows that certain compounds in the skin, called triterpenoids, can block cancer cells and thus lower risk of disease. Eating red delicious apples whole, throwing them in a smoothie, using as a base for nut butter, or slicing them for a cheese sandwich or atop a salad, are terrific ways to utilize this prime fruit.

12. Watermelon

Watermelon is not only hydrating and refreshing in the heat, but it is also packed with vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, which has been shown to protect cells from UV damage. “One cup of cubed watermelon is an excellent source of the antioxidant Vitamin C and Vitamin A,” says dietician Toby Amidor, MS, RD, an advocate for WTRMLN WTR, over email with Bustle. “Further, it is also brimming with the antioxidant lycopene, which is an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage,” she continues.

13. Almonds

Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds and pistachios, are high in vitamin E, which can protect cells from sun damage and keep skin soft, clear and blemish-free. The healthy, monounsaturated fats founds in almonds can also keep skin less inflamed and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which can occur from the aging process. Eating a handful or tossing in a salad or smoothie can delay aging and offer great protection.

Keep your skin healthy and soft after removing any unwanted hair. To learn about aftercare for your laser treatments go here!

SRC: www.bustle.com/articles/170712-13-surprising-foods-that-can-protect-you-from-sun-skin-damage

 

Your skin is an important organ to your body, and just like other organs, what you eat effects it’s health. So if you are unhappy with how our skin looks, one of the first things you need to look at is your diet.

Our skin is a giant protective covering organ with three layers. It is responsible for multiple critical operations and functions in the body. Skin serves as the body’s first line of defense preventing pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances from entering the body. Our skin helps regulate body temperature and serves to facilitate communication from the environment through nerve endings. These nerve endings in our skin afford us our sensations of touch, temperature and pain. Skin produces and stores cholecalciferol or vitamin D, in its bottom 2 two layers. This important nutrient facilitates bone integrity, cell growth, cancer prevention and immune functions. In order for skin to excel at its multiple responsibilities it needs to be healthy. Healthy skin is largely a reflective of its composition, thus what we eat and absorb matters.

Skin cells have a rapid cell cycle where production of new cells and replacement of old cells only takes 28 days. Nutrients critical to healthy cell formation and maintenance include macro nutrients such as protein, complex carbo-hydrates, healthy fats: poly and monounsaturated fats, and omega 3 fatty acids and of course water. Adequacy of these nutrients is specific to each individual. Determining one’s requirements and meeting them is the first step to promoting healthy skin. The micro nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants are also big players in the healthy growth and development of all body tissues. This being said the overall health of the digestive track including its absorption of nutrients and elimination of wastes is pertinent to great skin. Both of these functions support optimized cell structure, function and flow. So what should we focus on in our diet?

Pro-biotic foods that promote a healthy gut lining and good nutrient absorption include: plain yogurt, Kefir, Sauerkraut, Microalgae (spirulina, chorella, and blue-green algae), Miso Soup, pickles (very salty, limit for those with high blood pressure), Tempeh, Kimchi (An Asian form of pickled sauerkraut), kimchi ( is an extremely spicy and sour fermented cabbage), and Kombucha Tea. Knowing your personal food tolerances and dietary restrictions based upon your health is important when choosing which of these to consume. Consulting with a dietitian regarding potential side effects is recommended.

Not surprisingly, plenty of vegetables and fruits (naturally rich in anti-oxidants, bio-flavinoids, vitamins, minerals, fiber and water) aid in cell formation and preservation. Vitamin A ( found in salmon, fish oil carrots, spinach, and broccoli) and Zinc ( found in turkey, almonds, Brazil nuts, and wheat germ) supports strong cell growth, vitality and integrity. Antioxidants such as vitamin E (found in sweet potatoes, nuts, olive oil, sunflower seeds, avocados, broccoli, and leafy green vegetables ) and vitamin C ( found in oranges, lemons, grapefruit, papaya, Guava, bell peppers of all colors, grapefruit juice, strawberries, pineapple, and tomatoes) protect cell membranes from UV light damage. This of course is a key process, in the preservation of skin cells. Selenium ( found in wheat germ, tuna, salmon, garlic, Brazil nuts, eggs, and brown rice) has antioxidant properties that help protect skin’s elasticity. Selenium protects skin cells from the damage caused by free radicals and reduces the risk of death by squamous cell cancers.

Including a good complement of healthy fats and anti-inflammatory foods supports cell preservation. The omega-3 fatty acids rich foods like wild salmon, sardines, fortified eggs, and walnuts support this end. Serving to keep the outer layer of skin strong and intact, these foods will support keeping external toxins and pollutants stay out.

Adequate hydration is not to be under estimated. Water is the most important nutrient we consume. At 70 percent of our body composition it is critical to digestion and absorption of nutrients, so thus it’s critical to skin health. General recommendations are to drink at least 1/3 to ½ your body weight in ounces daily.

Keep your skin healthy and soft after removing any unwanted hair. To learn about aftercare for your laser treatments go here!

SRC: www.vvdailypress.com/article/20160630/NEWS/160639994

 

If you’ve ever gotten those sudden long dark hairs in random spots, you know how annoying they can be. They are actually rather common and can happen as you get older. But why do they happen at all? 

It could be a harmless gene mutation. If you randomly find one long, dark hair on your chin, nose, toes or breasts, it may be that a single hair follicle diverted from its normal path. Atlanta dermatologist Angela Love Bookout, MD, says, “The growth phase in a hair‘s lifecycle determines its characteristics, such as its length and diameter. At any point, a gene mutation of a single follicle, due to trauma or environmental influences, can result in a longer, darker hair. And, once it has mutated, it will  continue to grow that way.”

It may be related to your hormones. New York dermatologist Debbie Palmer, MD, says that women in their 40s or 50s often experience hair growth in areas they hadn’t previously. “Androgens (male hormones), specifically testosterone, are responsible for the changes,” she explains. “Estrogen levels decrease during menopause, creating a disruption in the balance between estrogen and testosterone that can cause hair to grow darker or longer.”

Keep your skin healthy and soft after removing any unwanted hair. To learn about aftercare for your laser treatments go here!

SRC: www.newbeauty.com/blog/dailybeauty/9581-the-reason-why-long-dark-hairs-pop-up-in-weird-spots/

We know that UV rays are bad for your skin, but pollution can also be harmful. Certain gases in the air normally found in higher atmosphere’s are very good at breaking down skin.

Scientists are just beginning to uncover how toxic air affects the skin’s aging process. A study done this year on data from subjects in Germany and China appeared to link increased air pollution to brown spots on the skin.

And not surprisingly, the big beauty players are stepping in with new skin care products — “pollution protection,” as it’s called.

So what exactly are we protecting ourselves against?

Ozone, the toxic gas formed when UV light hits mono-nitrogen oxides (basically, combustion exhaust), is suspected by some to be one of the primary causes of pollution-related skin damage. (Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs UV rays, and so is protective against skin cancer. But ground-level ozone has been linked to respiratory problems.)

We are continuously exposed to ozone, said Dr. Giuseppe Valacchi, an associate professor in physiology at the Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology at the University of Ferrara in Italy, who is known for his expertise on pollution’s effect on the body. “It’s as if ozone were designed specifically to injure our skin.”

The outer layer of our skin contains lipids — that is, fats that bind skin cells together. Ozone oxidizes those lipids, Dr. Valacchi said, causing inflammation, breaking down the barrier function of the skin and activating a cascade of DNA-damaging events. What to do?

“You can protect yourself from UV damage with sunscreen, but sunscreens aren’t effective for pollution,” said Dr. Gilly Munavalli, medical director of Dermatology, Laser & Vein Specialists of the Carolinas in Charlotte, N.C. “The best thing we can do now is apply antioxidants: vitamins C and E.”

So beneficial antioxidants may already be part of your skin care routine.

Moreover, subverting air toxins can be as simple washing your face with the right cleanser. Particulate matter, the tiny harmful particles in the air, attaches to the skin as you go about your day. But it isn’t immediately damaging.

Keep your skin healthy and soft after removing any unwanted hair. To learn about aftercare for your laser treatments go here!

SRC: www.nytimes.com/2016/06/30/fashion/skin-beauty-health-tips-pollution.html?_r=0