Enlarged Pores No More!

Enlarged pores are not attractive but how do you get rid of them? The first step, understand why your pores have become enlarged.  Dirt, oil and dead skin cells trapped inside your pores cause them to look enlarged. This means you need to find a way to get all that unwanted dirt, oil and dead skin out of your pores and then find the perfect way to keep it out.

An AHA/BHA peel performed every 2-3 weeks can go deep into the pores and remove impurities to minimize the appearance of your pores. Use a daily glycolic or salicylic exfoliator can help keep those pores clean between peels!

Keeping your skin super hydrated helps too. Once a pore is dilated, you can't shrink it back but you can diminish the appearance. A hyaluronic serum will boost the epidermal water content thus "plumping" the skin up and making them look smaller. Consistent dehydration will cause further dilation, making them bigger....hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

If you are interested in learning more about skincare visit www.naturalskinshop.com or contact one of our helpful skin experts on Facebook (Kim or Kristen) or call toll free 888.514.5126 Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm  EST.

Glycolic Acid Peels at Home

The average cost for an in office Glycolic Acid Peel is $125.  This can add up as, on average, you will need 6-8 peels before you start to see results. But there is good news, Glycolic Acid Peels can be done at home using the same products with the same strengths used by professionals but at a much reduced price.

When deciding to do an at home Glycolic Acid Peel you should do your research. If its your first time make sure to use a lower strength.  Natural Skin Shop has kits ranging from  20% light strength all the way up to the 70% maximum strength. 

Using Glyolic Acid Peel Kits rather than just the medical grade chemical peel itself is also a wise choice. Kits have been put together to provide the best overall results and the quickest healing time. Applying a peel can produce dramatic results - shedding dead, damaged cells and replacing them with new, softer skin for a more even skin tone and youthful appearance. To perform a treatment that will fully enhance the natural turnover process, you must also treat the skin during the "downtime", otherwise known as the period between peels. 

If you are interested in learning more about how a Glycolic Acid Peel can help improve your skin visit www.naturalskinshop.com or contact one of our helpful skin experts on Facebook (Kim or Kristen) or call toll free 888.514.5126 Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm  EST. 

STRETCH, STRETCH, STRECH

Kristina Holland-Natural Skin Shop’s skin-savvy writer (& biggest fan!)

FAQs On Stretch Marks….

Stretch marks, also referred to as “striae distensae”, are a highly misunderstood skin disorder affecting approximately 70% of the female population and nearly 40% of adolescent males. Many questions surrounding this tricky skin concern are left unanswered, leaving all those afflicted feeling helpless, confused and frequently disappointed. Read below to find out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions concerning stretch marks…

FAQ: What are stretch marks and how are they obtained?
Stretch marks develop deep within the secondary layer of the skin referred to as the dermis, where collagen and elastin are produced. Although stretch marks do frequently occur during rapid growth spurts, such as pregnancy or adolescence, the root cause is actually a class of hormones known as “glucocorticoids”. These hormones, which halt the fabrication of fibroblast activity, run rampant during periods of intense physical transition or during topical and/or oral steroid use. Fibroblasts are crucial to the production of both collagen and elastin fibers particularly when the skin is “stretching” at an abnormal or accelerated rate. Without the essential production of collagen, the supportive structure of the skin fails to reinforce the dermis, which leads to dermal tearing and epidermal thinning. The process itself is oddly similar to the development of wrinkles resultant from photodamage and its impact on the dermis. Stay tuned for the Natural Skin Shop Blog on photodamage titled “Damage Control: Repairing the Photodamage of Yesterday for a Brighter Tomorrow”.

FAQ: Am I doomed to acquire stretch marks during pregnancy?
A: Roughly 90% of pregnant women (predominantly Caucasian women) develop stretch marks at some point during their pregnancy. The third trimester is a particularly vulnerable time when the baby is growing rapidly. First things first, prepare in advance for the onset of stretch marks. Waiting for their ‘big debut’ is risky business! Avoid elasticity loss from the get-go (pre-natal) by fortifying the lipid barrier with skin-nourishing humectants and emollients such as vitamin E and olive oil. For existing stretch marks, the topical application of vitamin A treatments, such as Ashira Retinol Enliven Complex Moisturizer, is known to stimulate fibroblast activity and encourage the production of collagen. However, any and all vitamin A treatments should be postponed until the completion of both the pregnancy and the nursing period. Vitamin A is extremely harmful to infants and has been associated with long-term birth defects in high-doses. Topical vitamin C, such as C-Rx Vitamin C Potent Topical Serum 27, is also recommended for mild to moderate stretch marks. Over time, it can be used to effectively stimulate pigment and collagen production.
(While pregnant or nursing, please consult a physician regarding skin care procedure.)

FAQ: What are “glucocorticoids” anyhow?
A: Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones that impair fibroblast activity thereby halting the very necessary production of collagen and elastin. The fabrication of these crucial dermal fibers is essential to the skin’s support structure. When they fail to provide support to the dermis, stretch marks develop as a result of elasticity loss.

FAQ: My stretch marks are so ancient! I’m convinced they cannot be erased. Are stretch marks permanent?
Recent advancements in skin care technology have expanded the scope of skin-renewing opportunities. Lasers, chemical peels and microdermabrasion treatments have all proven to be highly successful at erasing (or at least camouflaging) these unsightly relics of time. A silver or white stretch mark, medically referred to as “striae distensae alba”, is indicative of a fully developed or “aged” stretch mark. Time is of the essence! Catching a stretch mark during the early phase of development, indicated by a red, blue or purple hue, is highly advantageous. Skin peels, most notably glycolic acid peels, effectively stimulate fibroblasts and can be used to effectively banish both newly formed and “ancient” stretch marks.
FAQ: Will tanning help to mask my stretch marks?
A: Tanning, by way of UV radiation exposure, will only make matters worse. For a quick fix cover-up, opt for self-tanners, which camouflage the problem without further debilitating essential dermal fibers (collagen and elastin).



FAQ: Can I prevent stretch marks and does a specific diet aid in averting stretch marks?
In short, stretch marks can be prevented, however, there are no guarantees. A healthy combination of both internal and external remedies can be used to both prevent and treat existing stretch marks. When it comes to stretch marks, try to reiterate (and initiate) the following three words:

1. “Stimulate”-fibroblasts deep within the dermis! Think skin peels, topical vitamin C, vitamin A, microdermabrasion, photorejuvenation (lasers), etc!
2. “Nourish”-the external barrier (the intracellular matrix) with NMF (natural moisturizing factors). Think hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, fatty acids, ceramides, sweet almond oil, etc.
3. “Hydrate”-the internal barrier with essential fatty acids (healthy fats) and of course…water! Think salmon, olive oil, almonds, flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil, avocados …and water, water, water!

PS: Exercise is also a helpful tool in preventing stretch marks as a result of increased blood circulation. Extreme weight-lifting, however, can have the opposite effect by sparking glucocorticoids into high production.

Stretch marks don’t have to ruin your day…remember help is on the way! Natural Skin Shop XOXO Feel free to post your blog comments below!

SKIN CARE ORIENTATION | Part II

“Pat Away a Drenched Face… Before Evaporation Does!”
Towel dry immediately after washing your face, head, shoulders, knees and toes! However, be sure to gently pat away moisture buds with a bacteria-free, clean towel! Here’s the clincher: Many individuals fail to regularly and thoroughly wash towels resulting in the proliferation of acne-inducing bacteria. Delegate a hygienic, germ-free towel to be used exclusively on your face. Air-drying is often frowned upon due to the inevitable process of evaporation. But fear not! Applying moisturizer to a damp face will ensure your lipid barrier prevails against all odds!

“Don’t Pop That Pimple.... Unless You Want Another Dimple.”
To pop or not to pot? Just say no to zit popping! More often than not, popping a pimple results in the formation of acne scarring. Even a seemingly simple extraction can incidentally push bacteria deep into the pore resulting in an unfortunate dispersion of bacteria. Inflammation, redness and pockmarks are not worth the instant pimple-popping gratification. Leave clogged pores to the professionals or invest in skin-renewing chemical peels, which eradicate clogged pores from the get-go. Skin peels infused with antibacterial agents, such as the jessner peel, are a healthy choice for acne-prone individuals. Mature skin types that are plagued by both acne and wrinkles should opt for glycolic peels, which address both concerns with ease.

“PH-Balanced Is NOT A Bad Skin Care Joke!”
For the most part, skin is slightly acidic! The “acid mantle” is a protective layer of sweat, lipids, fats and oils that work to protect the skin from harmful bacteria and viruses. It is located on the outermost layer of the skin known as the stratum corneum. The widely spouted term “PH” refers to the “potential for hydrogen”. In other words, the PH of a product determines its concentration of hydrogen ions. The average PH balance of most skin types resides somewhere between 4 and 5.5. A PH lower than 7 is considered “acidic”, while a PH above 7 is deemed to be “alkaline”. Products labeled “PH-balanced” maintain the delicate acid mantle by restoring the skin’s natural PH to a mildly acidic level. Excessive cleansing can strip the skin of vital acidity thereby creating an alkaline environment prone to infections. The PH scale can effectively determine a product’s potential for irritation or “injury”. The low PH of chemical peels purposefully “injures” the uppermost layers of the skin to encourage cellular renewal.
PS: Water is considered to be “neutral” with a PH of 7.

Class is dismissed!
Natural Skin Shop XOXO
Feel free to post your blog comments below!

“ADULT ACNE” | THE PAIN, THE PLAIN INSANE & THE (EVENTUAL) GAIN…

Kristina Holland-Natural Skin Shop’s skin savvy writer (& biggest fan!)


As if reaching your prime wasn’t difficult enough. Now, as an adult, you have the two-folded drama of combating both acne and wrinkles! If you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place, Natural Skin Shop can spare you a troubled face…and your adult grace!

THE PAIN
Studies have revealed a recent spurge in the cases of post–adolescent acne in both men and women between the ages of 25 and 50. For women, the statistics are slightly higher (50%), while men tend to suffer less frequently from the condition (25%). Adult acne can debilitate an individual’s confidence (think big office meeting) and wreck havoc on your ability to appropriately address the signs of aging. What a pain in your adult reign!

THE PLAIN INSANE: WHY ME…WHY NOW?
You may have thought that acne was limited to the erratic, hormonally-imbalanced (and sometimes awkward) years of youth. Just when you thought you could retire the good ole’ brown paper bag, the ill-timed onset of adult acne introduces itself into your middle-aged life. Let’s look to the possible culprits and find a solution so you can go back to being a “grown-up” (whatever that means...).

*Cosmetic Acne: Your daily application, and most significantly re-application, of makeup could be creating an unhealthy proliferation of clogged pores, bacteria and irritation. Opt for products labeled non-comedogenic and non-acnegnic. To ensure your cosmetics remain bacteria-free, keep lids tightly closed and avoid direct heat and sunlight. This hygienic safety measure applies to any and all skin care products. Sharing cosmetics is also frowned upon for sanitary purposes. You may unintentionally acquire or “share” with another the bacteria behind acne’s unpopular presence (proprionobacterium acnes). Also, check the expiration date of your compact, foundation or blush to be sure your not applying makeup that’s been around since your teenage years!

*Stress: Tax season is approaching and the IRS may be to blame for your newly acquired problematic complexion. Okay…the IRS can’t be held accountable (pun intended) for everything gone-wrong; however, the stress associated with it can certainly take the blame. Embrace relaxation techniques (such as yoga) to decrease an excess of the stress hormone referred to as “cortisol”, which has been linked to both weight gain and acne.

*Hormones: Hormones are constantly fluctuating throughout the cycle of life particularly for women. Childbirth and menopause (particularly perimenopause) can create a temporary or long-term hormonal imbalance. Harsh acne treatments only make matters worse, and as a result, the problematic condition continues down a wayward path. Consult a physician to make sure your hormones are in check.

*The Glycemic Index: The good ole’ saying “you are what you eat” may not be too far off track when it comes to acne. No, it’s not the typical blame game involving chocolate and french-fries. Rather, a food that scores high on the glycemic index chart could ultimately surge your hormones (insulin). When insulin levels spike, so too does sebum production…and there you have an instant recipe for acne! Be wary of not only your sweet tooth, but also of hidden offenders such as complex carbohydrates in addition to sugary drinks and condiments.
PS: Even ketchup contains high-fructose syrup.
PSS: The necessary nutrient, iodine also stimulates the production of oil. To rule out this culprit, temporarily avoid iodine-rich foods such as kelp and egg yolks.

*Rosacea: Adult acne and rosacea are often times very closely related, so much so that they can go in hand and hand or are mistakenly confused for one another at times. Consult a physician if you suspect acne-rosacea. Clinical symptoms include a flushed appearance associated with inflamed pustules particularly after consuming spicy foods and liquor.
PS: Powdered cosmetics, such as loose foundations (i.e.: mineral makeup), are known to irritate rosacea conditions.

*Genetics: Thank your mom and dad for this one. Nature versus nurture is a frequent discussion throughout the psychological and dermatological community. Although, “nature” may have predisposed you to acne, “nurture” can alter the path of your skin’s destiny.

*New Allergies: Allergies, both internal and external, can develop late in age due to a compromised immune system, leaky gut syndrome or simply “just because”. For external protection, opt for a routine with minimal ingredients. The labels “hypoallergenic”, “allergy-tested”, “dermatologist-tested” and “all-natural” are highly misleading. A product may not have to undergo significant testing to be considered hypoallergenic. Likewise, a “hired” dermatologist could “assess” a product on a “select” group of individuals thereby not including a wide range of possible allergies. Also, all-natural is great, however, essentials oils can be the cause of many an allergic and acnegenic irritation. Think lavender, lemon, orange and …poison ivy! Ouch! Opt for sophisticated product formulations utilizing the best of science and nature.

*Damage (Radiation): Oh my…have the years flown by and now your once perfect skin is looking a bit drab, uneven, dull…and need I say…. full of acne breakouts. How could this be? The invincible years of youth may have left you blissfully unaware of the daily damage incurred by baking in the sun’s rays. Photodamage breaks down collagen and elastin, expands pores, stimulates sebaceous glands and deteriorates the skin’s immune system. Tally up the assaults and your skin can certainly develop acne as a result. Even incidental photodamage can do a great deal of harm to the skin, which is why daily sun protection is a must for all skin types (even the healthy, youthful, beautiful variety). Nevertheless…who says the damage can’t be undone? Natural Skin Shop certainly believes in second chances. So, up the ante and invest in regular skin peels to create healthy new skin cells, an antioxidant-rich serum to fend off free-radicals and a stable, broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from future assaults.
PS: A compromised or damaged lipid barrier may also be to blame for your adult-acne. Please also see the Natural Skin Shop Blog: “Repair My Barrier…(and my derrière)”.

THE (EVENTUAL) GAIN
The good news about adult acne is that many acne-targeted treatments simultaneously provide a solution for aging skin. Therapeutic treatments involving glycolic acid, such as glycolic acid peels, treat the keratinization disorder associated with both acne and wrinkles. By stimulating fresh cellular production, chemical peels combat acne and wrinkles on all fronts. Skin-type appropriate skin peels are also highly effective against acne’s lesser-known associates (photodamage, rosacea and an impaired barrier).


AN IDEAL ADULT ACNE REGIMEN
*Gentle Cleanser (Don’t risk further irritating inflamed acne conditions by drying the epidermis thereby causing a bevy of additional skin concerns. Natural Skin Shop’s cleanser recommendation: The antioxidant-rich Peel RX Green Tea Cleanser
*Medicated Toner (Combat bacteria, dead skin and excess cosmetic and environmental residue)
*Serum (oily skin)/Lotion (normal to combination)/Serum + Lotion (combination to dry)
*Sunscreen (Stable/Broad-Spectrum/PABA-free/Non-comedogenic)
*Monthly Skin Peels (Your skin’s ability to renew itself takes a sluggish turn for the worse with age. Chemical peels perk up your skin into high-drive. )

Adult Acne: Common Question of the Day
Q: My daughter and I both have acne. Can we use the same products?
A: More often than not, adult and teenage acne don’t have much in common. To avoid unnecessary dryness and irritation, make sure to avoid drying, over-the-counter anti-acne potions and lotions targeted towards the youth. Yes, teenage and adult acne can have similar symptomatic conditions, however, the root cause and circumstances are often very different and therefore need to be addressed as so… In fact, be sure to check out your daughter’s products to make sure she isn’t falling prey to the victimization associated with “cyclical acne treatments”. Basically, any product that is marketed as an acne cure, but is instead packed full of irritating ingredients and drying astringents, which only perpetuate the ongoing battle instead of eliminating the root cause.

PS: Leave acne in the past where it belongs. But always remember to smile, smell the roses and forget you’re a “real adult” from time to time. Your skin and you heart will thank you….

Be Young at Heart,
Natural Skin Shop
XOXO

Feel free to post your blog comments below!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! HAPPY NEW SKIN!!!

Ring in the New Year with Natural Skin Shop and say goodbye to problematic skin!

Over the last year, your skin has been exposed to a wide range of skin-debilitating agents. UV radiation, stress, pore-clogging cosmetics and environmental toxins can all wreck havoc on an otherwise healthy and “normal” complexion. Tally up the negative assaults and your skin will know (and show) the difference…

ALL THAT SPARKLES!

Don’t let your skin fall victim to the unfavorable effects of ‘pore’ dermal regeneration. Regular exfoliation maintains a healthy complexion by accelerating the skin’s natural turnover rate. Let your complexion sparkle and shine this year with the aid of Natural Skin Shop’s Chemical Peels. Skin-repairing Skin Peels retaliate against clogged pores (comedones), photodamage and the adverse signs of aging by encouraging healthy, new cellular proliferation.

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS THAT YOU CAN KEEP!

*Thou Shall Wash Thy Face Before Bed

Even non-comedogenic cosmetics (e.g.: mineral makeup) can seep into your pores as you sleep soundly (and blissfully unaware) all through the night! Before you catch some much-needed Z’s, be sure to thoroughly remove residual oil, makeup and debris with a PH balanced cleanser such as Peel Rx Green Tea Cleanser…

*Thou Shall Not Expose Thyself to UV Radiation

Harmful UVA and UVB rays can break down collagen and elastin fibers thereby prompting an unhealthy complexion plagued by wrinkles, acne and hyperpigmentation. Be sure to protect the health and vitality of your skin by habitually utilizing broad-spectrum sunscreen…come rain or shine!

*Thou Shall “Take It Easy”

Stress is one of the chief culprits responsible for pre-mature aging, acne, rosacea, etc, etc, etc. The list could go on and on due to the hazardous effects of stress on the body. Take a breather from time to time for you and your skin’s sake… (Hint: Simply catching up with a loyal friend can relieve stress and anxiety…)

3…2…1… GLOW!!!

You’ve set your goals and you’re ready to get started on the New Year! Another year is here for you to get it right! Maybe you have decided to exercise more frequently, drink more water or consume healthier foods (NSS recommends all of the above). Either way, the New Year brings a fresh start to your lifestyle, your dreams… and of course your skin! Get started and don’t hold back…you have some imperative glowing to do!

THE “NATURAL” SKIN SHOP CHEAT SHEET

“N”othing can stop you from smiling! Remember that a positive attitude is your best (and most valuable) asset. Set your goals and follow your heart. Your inner glow will shine through…even on a cloudy day!

“A” apple a day! Whichever fruit you choose, increasing your daily intake will impart instant radiance! Many fruits, such as pomegranate and acai, are packed full of skin-nourishing antioxidants. Be good to yourself on the inside and out…

“T”rust your instincts. A dermatologist or aesthetician can give you ALL the latest skin know-how and advice, but only YOU truly know the skin you’re in… What works for one individual, may not work for you. Determine your skin type, know your sensitivities and invest in quality skin care…the rest is up to your skin!

“U”ndo the damage…Investing in a commitment to beautiful skin begins with renewal. Step 1: Peel the years away! In the skin-peeling world, Glycolic Acid Peels are an excellent first-step for those who are new to the rejuvenating process of Chemical Peels.

“R”eprimand the hazards of life. Smoking, stress, excessive drinking and inadequate sleep are all devastating to your complexion and overall wellbeing. Kick the foul habits and feel free to radiate your newfound health and happiness…

“A”ttention to detail. You may not notice how many times you rest your hand or cell phone upon your face, but seemingly trivial habits can become serious problems. Remember to keep bacteria-ridden object (such as your hands, dirty pillow cases or cellular phones) off your delicate skin. Frequently wash bath towels and pillowcases in a non-irritating and fragrance-free detergent.

“L”ove, love, love your skin! You have but only one epidermis! Protect it and nourish it, but most of all…love it! TLC is a necessary constituent for beautiful skin!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Natural Skin Shop

XOXO

Kristina Holland-Natural Skin Shop’s skin savvy writer (& biggest fan!)

Feel free to post your blog comments below!