Archive for November, 2008

19th Nov 2008

Advances in Skin Rejuvenation Focus on Enhancing Collagen and Elastin

For many Baby Boomers trying to slow down the aging process, hyperpigmentation means a lot more than just dark spots on their skin. In a culture obsessed with youth and beauty, age spots may not only have a negative impact on one’s self-esteem, but they could also potentially be a contributing factor in age discrimination. It may not happen all the time, but it does happen.

Some people would assert that aging is a natural process that should be managed by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a positive attitude. Their advice might be to just go with the flow and don’t fight the inevitable. Well, even though everyone has a different opinion on the matter, few people would disagree with this fact: The experience of aging is as different among individuals as personal values, career aspirations, genetics, and lifestyle choices.

Some people offer no resistance to what they see as the natural changes that occur as a result of getting older. Others wage a proactive battle against every change that takes place in their skin texture, hair color, and waistline measurements. There’s certainly nothing wrong with trying to slow down the aging process and retain one’s youthful appearance; and for those intent on doing so, there are enough temporary solutions, anti-aging products, and cosmetic procedures out there to suit almost everyone’s comfort level and budget.

The secret to staving off premature aging is actually not a secret. The media frequently focuses on the age defying benefits of regular exercise, antioxidants, Omega 3’s, getting enough sleep, managing stress, controlling cholesterol, limiting fat intake, getting enough sleep, refraining from smoking, applying sunscreen, and – in case I forgot anything — avoiding an assortment of other risky habits and behaviors.

From a purely cosmetic point of view, if the texture of your skin has been damaged by sun exposure, aging, or a combination, thereof, there are a variety of tactics you can use to counteract those conditions. Whether your complaint is hyperpigmentation or wrinkles, the problem can often be improved through procedures, such as dermabrasion or laser treatments. Researchers in Germany have also recently made some progress in learning how to use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to restore some of the resiliency and elasticity of aging skin. Positive effects on collagen production in skin has also been reported as the result of topically applying amino acid compounds, called pentapeptides

Another type of skin therapy that has been shown to improve the appearance of photodamaged and wrinkled skin is called the ELASTIderm Decolletage System. At the recent Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference Meeting, in Long Beach, California, Obagi Medical Products announced the results of a 24-week clinical study involving two topical skin treatments .

According to an October 16th, 2008 press release issued by Obagi Medical Products, Inc., “The ELASTIderm Skin Lightening Complex is formulated with 4% hydroquinone to aid in the gradual lightening of hyperpigmented skin conditions. The ELASTIderm Wrinkle Reducing Lotion is formulated with a proprietary bi-mineral complex with malonic acid that helps replenish elasticity and build collagen.” The lead investigator in the study, James Leyden, MD, stated that “The system is highly effective, with the most obvious improvements in mottled hyperpigmentation occurring early in treatment, which continued to improve over time, as did wrinkling.”

Steve Carlson, president and CEO of Obagi Medical Products, noted that skin around the neck and chest is often overlooked in the anti-aging process. The company’s ELASTIdermTM Decolletage System reportedly targets those two problem areas “by helping to replenish elasticity and build collagen in the chest and neck area.”

About the author: Joel Sussman, a writer and SEO specialist, covers topics and industry developments that affect ecommerce businesses, such as Spa City Spa.com, a Skin Care Products web site that features anti aging formulations, including Obagi Elastiderm and Obagi Nu Derm.

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19th Nov 2008

The Obagi Blue Peel

Obagi blue peels are on every womans list of desired skin treatments. They have received tons of publicity in recent years for their skin rejuvenation abilities and top doctors and plastic surgeons from coast to coast have made it a mainstay of their anti aging skin care programs. Below we will discuss the positive results one can expect from a Obagi Blue Peel and the limitations that are also inherent with the Obagi Blue Peel.

The Obagi Blue Peel was invented by Dr. Obagi to be an indicator that would tell the doctors where it has been applied and where it hasnt. It was also to be formulated as a weaker peel than a straight TCA peel so it would basically self neutralize and make it a very simple procedure. That is where the peel got its name, it has a blue cream mixture that basically dyes the face and thusly indicates where it has and has not been applied. Patients are told to expect this green or blue color on their face for the next few days until it peels off and reveals fresh, more youthful skin.

The Obagi Blue Peel is actually a cream that has no active ingredients other than the dye. It is mixed by the doctor or plastic surgeon with the desired concentration of trichloroacetic acid (which is obtained separately). The trichloroacetic acid or TCA becomes the actual active ingredient that gives a mild to medium chemical burn in the first several layers of skin. The TCA breaks and disrupts cellular bonds and results in peeling of the skin and a fresh, more youthful skin. TCA treats many skin problems or conditions usually associated with aging skin like wrinkles, sun spots, freckles, etc. It is interesting to also note that TCA has been found to be one of the most effective anti acne treatments known to doctors.

The Obagi Blue Peel has two slight limitations or inconveniences, though. Many people do not want to look green like a frog for several days as it is so severe a coloring that it cannot possibly be covered up with makeup. The other is that it tends to be weaker than a straight TCA peel and requires several applications to usually equal the results of one straight TCA peel. Now, it is important to note that a straight TCA peel does not have an indicator like dye, but it does have the ability to redden or white out on most skin types. This indicates that it has penetrated deep enough for a good peel and then needs to be neutralized.

The straight TCA Peel is currently used and favored by thousands of medical doctors, dermatologists and plastic surgeons for its ability to produce desired results in less than half the time of an Obagi Blue Peel. It also usually produces more profound results and requires fewer if any subsequent treatments. The Obagi Blue Peel is a good skin peel and does produce good results, but the straight TCA peel works quicker, is usually stronger and has better and longer lasting results making it the ultimate skin peel for any anti aging skin care regimen.

David Maillie is a chemist with over 12 years experience in biochemical research and clynical analysis. For more information on the Obagi Blue Peel, TCA peel for in home use and great anti-aging products and ideas please visit TCA peel and Obagi Blue Peel.

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17th Nov 2008

Obagi Skincare Revolution

We have all heard the phrase, “Beauty is only skin deep” a thousand times before. And for your skin to have an even tone, to be glowing and radiant, and have a nice clear complexion is a great accomplishment. And because we expose our skin to the sun and the ever-changing elements, our skin becomes worn out and damaged. Since our epidermis is our body’s largest organ, it needs to be pampered and well taken care of. The talk of the town these days is all about skin rejuvenation and health.

Obagi has a revolutionary skin care product that is capable of treating the origin of skin problems as well as working to treat them on the cellular level. Many other so-called “quality” skin care products only provide surface treatments. Obagi, on the other hand, actually works on the inside of your skin first. This is a great idea because now the outside surface of your skin looks healthy and radiant. Not to mention that these effects are actually long term, so they will not quickly disappear after applying treatments.

Treating your skin with Obagi skin rejuvenation products will help to promote your cells to regenerate and renew. Also, it helps to improve blood circulation. Skin conditions such as dryness, hyper-pigmentation and roughness can easily be treated from outer levels of your skin Treating your skin in this manner will help stimulate the fibrous proteins called elastin and collagen. This, in turn, contributes positively to the elasticity, tone and texture of your skin Your skin now has its natural moisture replenished, and it should feel healthy and nourished.

The two Obagi skin rejuvenation products, Obagi Blue Peels and Obagi Nu Derm are tops in today’s competitive skin care market. The Nu Derm system is sufficiently qualified to treat skin discoloration, acne scars, melasma and aging lines. This method is comprised of HQ systems that work in concert with a dark spots fading product, eye cream and moisturizer. When all of these products are used together, your skin will look healthy, rejuvenated and young again. The Obagi Blue Peels system will accelerate cell regeneration and will also help to remove dead ones. This peel method usually works best on those with skin types that are prone to wrinkles, pigmentation problems, acne, blemishes and sun damage.

The primary ingredient in these peels is Trichloroacetic acid. Please use caution when attempting to get an Obagi Blue Peel treatment. Have professionals perform this procedure for you. The professionals are experienced in analyzing your skin damage and skin type before treating you. And they are experienced in applying the peel. In order to achieve the maximum results possible, you should use the Obagi Nu Derm Skin Health System in concert with the Obagi Blue Peels. This will, of course, provide you with amazingly healthy and rejuvenated looking skin.

Katie Appleby is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about Obagi Skin Care Revolution, please visit Natural Beauty Online for current articles and discussions.

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16th Nov 2008

Obagi Nu-Derm Kit – Best Ways to Get the Obagi Nu-Derm Kit Cheaply

I agree with you about the Obagi Nu-Derm kit. The Obagi Nu-Derm system has been proven time %26 again to be one of the best ways to get rid of hyper-pigmentation, (that’s sun %26 age spots), uneven skin tone, freckles, acne scars, and wrinkles. You’ve probably heard about Obagi from friends and family who have realized the fantastic results. Or perhaps you have even tried it yourself. Whatever the case is, you’re probably looking to get the Obagi Nu-Derm kit cheaply. This article will discuss that.

Now, if you’ve seen the results achieved after using Obagi from a friend or family member, chances are that they bought it through a dermatologist, aesthetician, or plastic surgeon. Most people take that route. They feel safe doing it under the care of a professional. While that is usually a good idea, sometimes you want to buy it yourself.

First of all, when buying it through a derm, etc. the Obagi products are usually way overpriced. So, you might be looking to get the Obagi Nu-Derm kit cheaper. Or, maybe you’ve had success with the system, and you’re looking to get the Obagi products to maintain the results you have so painstakingly achieved. Or you might just need a little touch up and you’re not looking forward to a derm visit right now. You might even think of giving the Obagi Nu-Derm kit as a gift to a loved one.

Whatever the reason is, you’re looking to get the Obagi Nu-Derm kit cheaply, while saving yourself a visit to the dermatologist. Rest assured, you can do that. You can get the Obagi Nu-Derm kit cheaply online. And you can get it from reputable online retailers. And not only that, you can get excellent telephone support from aestheticians who know their stuff. It is even possible to get the tretinoin (Retin-A) online , without a derm visit. That’s because these online aestheticians work under a doctor, so they can give you a prescription.

In this article we discussed ways that you can get the Obagi Nu-Derm kit cheaply. I hope it helped you. Basically, you just need to know where to get it.

Sara G. is a skin care junkie. She knows some secret sources where you can get Obagi skin care discounts that your derm hopes you never find out. Also, her Squidoo lens, http://www.squidoo.com/obagiskincarediscount reveals some shocking truths and secrets about the Obagi Nu-Derm line of skin care.

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15th Nov 2008

Great Anti Aging Skin Care Advice

The reality of life is that inevitably our bodies and therefore our skin age. However, with recent advances in the skin care and treatment industry we can slow and maybe even stop or reverse this process. We hear about miracle cures every day on TV and in magazine advertisements. But what really works? Is it really possible to turn back the clock and enjoy 10 or 20 year younger skin? Some say it cant be done as we are genetically predisposed to the aging process. Doctors, dermatologists and plastic surgeons say it is possible and there are treatments that can actually turn back the clock and reveal younger, rejuvenated skin.

The number one recommendation from dermatologists is to stop smoking. Smoking has been proven to constrict blood vessels and result in a reduction of blood flow to the extremities. Smoking also causes the skin to dry out and will age your skin by 10 or more years. If you want to have younger looking skin you must stop smoking.

Another recommendation is proper hydration. It is recommended that we drink 6-8 glasses of water a day for proper hydration. According to the American Skin Association most Americans are not properly hydrated and this can cause the skin to lose elasticity and its ability to heal and defend against disease. To test for proper hydration pinch and pull the skin between your thumb and forefinger. If it goes right back you are properly hydrated. The longer it takes the more likely you are not properly hydrated. If it doesnt go back at all you are badly dehydrated. Dehydration and improper hydration can age your skin similar to that of smoking.

Dermatologists recommend exfoliation to remove dead cells, unclog pores and stimulate the skin. This can be done by a variety of methods from masks and microdermabrasion to various skin peels. The most recommended method is also the one used in more dermatologist and plastic surgeons offices than any other treatment, the TCA peel. The TCA peel was made famous by Dr. Obagi whom created the infamous Obagi Blue Peel.

The Obagi Blue Peel is a TCA peel with the addition of a blue or green colored skin dye. This dye colors the skin and indicates what areas have been treated and which have not. The Obagi Blue Peel is a good treatment, but many doctors have found that a pure TCA peel gives better results that last much longer and require ffewer if any follow up treatments. Whereas a Obagi Blue Peel may require 3 to 5 treatments over a years time, a pure TCA peel may only need 1. And at a cost of $300 to $500 or more per treatment that can get very expensive. Recently the TCA peel has been made available for in home use at a great savings.

TCA peels are one of the most effective anti aging treatments due to their ability to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, restore skin pH, and even stimulate the production of collagen. This production of collagen will plump skin and make it more youthful naturally. The TCA peel should be added to every anti aging skin care regimen.

Another recommendation is stay out of the sun and wear a sun block or lotion with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor). Damaging UV rays will age your skin, damage skin cells and DNA which can lead to mutated cells and even skin cancer. The rule is every 1 day you spend unprotected in the sun makes your skin at least 10 days older. It wont seem to matter at first, but it really adds up after a while. Who wants to have old, wrinkled and leather like skin? Sun protection is a must for any anti aging skin care treatment or regimen.

Take the time to properly protect your skin and it will look healthy and younger for a long, long time.

David Maillie is a chemist with over 12 years experience in biochemical research and clynical analysis. For more information on the Obagi Blue Peel, TCA peel for in home use and great anti-aging products and ideas please visit Anti Aging Skin Care And TCA PEEL.

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15th Nov 2008

How To Use Obagi Blender For The Maximum Benefit

In order to see that the Obagi Blender cream works to the maximum extent, the company stipulates certain rules to be followed strictly. Following these rules would result in 100% successful functioning of the cream. These rules are as follows:

First, check up with your doctor. Just before starting with the Obagi Blender, you should meet your Skin Health Counselor. Once the treatment starts, it is also advisable to visit him once every week, for the first 3 weeks. You should also tell him how much of the Obagi Blender, Obagi Clear and Tretinoin you are using and in what measure.

Judging by the progress you have made, your counselor will decide on your further course of treatment. Once the first phase is over, he will ask to meet you again on a later date. Always remember to get your counselors advice before using the Obagi Blender and never miss your counselors appointment.

The restoration process starts quickly enough with your Obagi Nu-Derm Blender. So if you need to attend a special occasion for which you want to look your best, you should stop using the Exforderm, Clear, Blender and Tretinoin some 3-4 days before going for the function. You can always get back to the skin care Obagi treatment once the event is over.

If irritation continues, immediately contact your counselor and discontinue treatment if he advises it. You can resume it after he gives the green signal for it.

If you are exposing your skin to the heat: the skin is most sensitive to the treatment in the first phase of treatment. There is a good chance that the skin will turn red for the first few days. So, while going out, Obagi recommends that you wear the Sunfader several times a day, so as to protect it from the detrimental forces outside.

Last words will be about the flexibity or treatment. If the skin reacts too sharply to Obagi Blender, you can adjust the amount to suit your skin. In case your counselor feels you can take it, he will ask you to increase the amount of application of the cream on your skin.

Alan Spark writes reviews on Obagi Blender and others Obagi skin care products.

You can read more at http://obagiblender-review.com

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