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Everyone is in search of the “fountain of youth” these days. There may be no such thing, but here are the top 5 ingredients you should make sure are in your “treatment” products that are putting in the effort to keep your skin looking young. Keep in mind not just 1 product will have all of these ingredients and you can layer/treat both AM & PM....Powered by Cincopa Video Streaming Hosting solution.Best of Anti-Aging Ingredients Everyone is in search of the “fountain of youth” these days. There may be no such thing, but here are the Top 5 ingredients you should make sure are in your “treatment” products that are putting in the effort to keep your skin looking young. Retinoids: Retinoic Acid & RetinolBy prescription - scientifically proven to improve the appearance of the signs of aging by promoting growth of new, healthy skin cells and restoring the collagen damaged over the years.height 332width 494originaldate 1/1/0001 6:00:00 AMAlpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHA)AHA adds radiance, smooth lines, help fade blotches, and allow other anti-aging ingredients to penetrate faster and work more effectively. PHA is more suitable than AHA for individuals with sensitive skin.height 338width 506originaldate 1/1/0001 6:00:00 AMAntioxidantsWhen applied topically, vitamin C has been proven to increase collagen production, which is significant in the fight against wrinkles. Vitamin C reduces skin discoloration and helps skin better withstand exposure to sunlight. height 347width 508originaldate 1/1/0001 6:00:00 AMGrowth FactorsGrowth factors are proteins that regulate cellular growth, proliferation and differentiation under controlled conditions. They play an important part in maintaining healthy skin structure and function. Most of the growth factors used in cosmetics are from plants.height 334width 502originaldate 1/1/0001 6:00:00 AMPeptidesThere are different types of peptides that help to reduce the signs of photo aging. They are effective in repairing damaged and aging skin, but their results are visible only after being used between 6 to 12 weeks and must be continuously utilized.height 336width 506originaldate 1/1/0001 6:00:00 AM 1. Retinoids:Retinoic acid (Tretinoin): By prescription - Scientifically proven to improve the appearance of the signs of aging by promoting growth of new, healthy skin cells and restoring the collagen damaged over the years. It can also lighten brown spots and stimulated hyaluronic acid production.Retinol: When applied to the skin, retinol converts to retinoic acid. It is less potent than tretinoin, but its continued use can improve the appearance of aging skin signs. 2. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHA)AHA: Alpha Hydroxy Acids, such as glycolic acid, add radiance, smooth lines, help fade blotches, and allow other anti-aging ingredients to penetrate faster and work more effectively.PHA: Ingredients such as gluconolactone and lactobionic acid are types of Poly Hydroxy Acid (PHA). They are similar to AHA, but less irritant due to their larger molecular structure, which makes them more suitable than AHA for individuals with sensitive skin. 3. Antioxidants:Vitamins: Vitamin C or L-ascorbic acid is the topical antioxidant par excellence. When applied topically, vitamin C has been proven to increase collagen production, which is significant in the fight against wrinkles. Vitamin C reduces skin discoloration and helps skin better withstand exposure to sunlight. Vitamin E or alpha tocopherol works in several different ways to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage. It also works in powerful synergy with vitamin C increasing its stability. It is very important to use a serum formulation packaged in a dark bottle to prevent light exposure. The combination of these vitamins with other botanical antioxidants such as ferulic acid or phloretin may potentiate their action preventing and correcting signs of photo aging.Resveratrol: Is a potent polyphenolic antioxidant, found in, red wine, red grapes nuts, and fruits such as blueberries and cranberries. When applied topically, it protects against sun damage, improves collagen production, and reduces cell damage. Its continued use has shown improvement of aging skin signs.Green tea: The key compound in green tea that provides potent antioxidant protection is epigallocatechin-3 gallate (EGCG) that, when used topically, can prevent collagen breakdown and reduce sun damage. 4. Growth factors: Growth factors are proteins that regulate cellular growth, proliferation and differentiation under controlled conditions. They play an important part in maintaining healthy skin structure and function. Most of the growth factors used in cosmetics are from plants.  Results from multiple controlled clinical studies have shown that the application of skin creams containing growth factors: reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as a result of new collagen synthesis, improves the appearance of age spots and evens out pigmentation, reduces skin roughness, improves skin texture and elasticity and improves skin smoothness and tightness. 5. Peptides: Peptides are a string of amino acids that are held together by bonds of nitrogen and carbon. Short chain peptides are able to penetrate the epidermis and send signals to cells, informing them how to function.There are different types of peptides that help to reduce the signs of photo aging. They are effective in repairing damaged and aging skin, but their results are visible only after being used between 6 to 12 weeks and must be continuously utilized. Once the peptides are discontinued, the results may fade.Examples of peptides are: Collagen/Elastin Building Peptides, Argireline, Matrixyl, Dermaxyl, Acetyl Glutamyl Octapeptide-3, and several more.Always remember that you can use all the right products with the best anti-aging ingredients out there but if you neglect to use sunscreen- you will not see the benefits.  Sunscreen is an important step when trying to achieve that youthful glow. When sunscreen is used year-round with the 5 ingredients listed above- you are on the right track to younger, healthier skin. Get on track, with our top anti-aging products, today!

Skinuva heals scars better than them, and here's why. Skinuva™ Scar was founded by Dr. Christopher Zoumalan, a Board-Certified Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. Inspired by his passion for science and medicine, he dedicated the past several years researching wound-healing and identifying the best techniques to recover surgical scars in his patients that underwent surgery. Although there has been major medical advancements in surgical procedures to minimize scarring, patients are still faced with concerns of visible scars that remain post-surgery. Since the introduction of silicone cream in the late 1990's there has been limited advancements in the topical scar therapy industry. Pertaining to the stagnate progress, Dr. Zoumalan and his team of scientists implemented medical literature and clinical data within their product development. Selective ingredients such as specific Growth Factors were integrated within the formulation of Skinuva™ Scar to create what is now recognized as- one of the most advanced topical scar creams. Skinuva™ Scar is the first and only scar cream in the industry that uses selective Growth Factors in its formulation.

Are you getting ready to go to a pool party, have a beach day or go out on a boat? Whatever your destination may be, do not forget these 5 essential items to keep your skin and hair healthy, protected and beautiful.  1. Always Bring a Good Sunscreen When you select your sunscreen, make sure that it is broad spectrum.  In other words, it should protect against UVA and UVB rays.  Since you’ll likely be in and out of the water, it’s best if your sunscreen is also water resistant for 40-80 minutes. Putting on the right amount is important: 1/2 of a teaspoon of sunscreen will be enough to cover face and neck.  Also remember that sunscreens should be applied at least 30 minutes before sun exposure and must be re-applied at least every 2 hours.Remember that those with sensitive skin and children will also need sunscreen products especially designed for them!  2. Topical Antioxidants are VitalInfrared rays are part of the sunlight, but unfortunately, they can cause skin damage through the production of free radicals. These rays are not typically filtered by sunscreens.  As a result, it’s important to use topical antioxidants to prevent and revert the damage cause by infrared rays.The use of vitamin C alone or in combination with vitamin E and other antioxidants like ferulic acid, for example, will provide better protection than sunscreens alone.  This is especially true for individuals prone to suffer from dark spots on their face.  For optimal protection, apply topical antioxidants on your face before your sunscreen.3. Lip Balm with SPFLips, especially the lower lip, are constantly exposed to solar radiation. When you’re spending the day in the sun, it is very important to use a lip balm containing moisturizers (e.g. beeswax, olive oil, cocoa butter) and a physical sunscreen (e.g. zinc oxide) with an SPF 30. Do not forget to constantly reapply your lip balm.  It should go on at least every 2 hours.  Are you hitting the waves?  If so, make sure your lip balm is also water resistant. 4. Leave-in Hair Conditioner with SunscreenIt's not just your skin that needs protection from the elements… your hair does too!  That’s why you should always wear a hat when you are spending the day in the sun.We strongly recommend applying a leave-in hair conditioner with sunscreens to prevent the damage that sunlight can cause to you hair. If you have dyed your hair, remember that ultraviolet radiation can cause hair discoloration. Apply your leave-in conditioner before sun exposure and also reapply liberally every time you enter into the water.5. Don’t Forget the MoisturizerYou likely already know that sun exposure can cause dry skin, so be sure to have a high quality moisturizer on hand.  We recommend trying a light moisturizing mist to instantly refresh the skin. Most mists contain Aloe Vera and other moisturizing and soothing ingredients. Thermal water in spray form may also help. It’s also essential to opt for an after sun moisturizer to help combat the sun's harmful effects.So be sure to fill your beach bag with products that will hydrate, protect and restore your skin and hair.  When you go to the beach prepared, you’ll walk away relaxed, rejuvenated and radiant. Mercedes Florez White, MD Dermatologist. Director of the Cosmetic Department at the Greater Miami Skin and Laser Center  Miami Beach, Florida.

     Wrinkles are one of the first signs of aging, and can be difficult to deal with. You may notice they start to form around your eyes, mouth, and neck, as initial signs are most likely to appear where the skin has a natural crease when smiling, laughing, or making everyday facial movements. Luckily, there are a wide array of products available at askderm.com to prevent and treat initial fine lines and wrinkles. Although we are all going to experience this unavoidable aspect of aging eventually, taking just a few minutes each day to give your skin the attention it deserves has proven to reduce and even ward off initial symptoms for a significant amount of time. Follow us @askderm on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter to be the first to know all of our exciting news!     The late 20’s are typically when the first wrinkle formations are found, and appear where sun exposure throughout your lifetime is highest like face, hands, chest, and forearms. The best preventative measure, as you may have guessed, is proper SPF application. Unprotected sun exposure allows free radicals to break down collagen and elastin. This slowly diminishes firmness and structure to invite the initial breakdowns of the skin. Up to 90% of the skin’s aging is due to sun exposure and inadequate protection. It’s important to note that not all sunscreens are created equal. Reapplying after sweating, swimming, and more than once per day is very necessary for long summer days when enjoying the outdoors. Even on cool, dark days, and those when your outdoor activities are limited, it is still imperative to keep your application to once per day. Opt for no less than a protection level of 30 SPF to keep yourself protected. FEATURED TOOLS NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device   Fillerina Dermo Replenishing Treatment This device uses microcurrents to topically tone the facial structure through FDA-cleared stimulation. With just five minutes of use per day, you'll noticed improved contour, tone, and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Featuring a two-phase treatment method with 6 different types of hyaluronic acids, and available in three strength levels. Plump up wrinkle depth to create volume and fullness, while applying high levels of nourishing ingredients like VItamin E, Meadowfoam Sea Oil and Shea Butter.   Both lifestyle choices and family history contribute to your skin’s condition. If you smoke, have light colored skin, and have a family history of early or significant wrinkles, your susceptibility of experiencing this condition earlier in life is greatly increased. For optimal results from your anti-wrinkle routine, choose products that contain antioxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids, and glycol acids. It’s no secret that as we age, our bodies slow down both inside and out. Your skin cells divide more slowly and the inner layer, known as the dermis, begins to thin. This results in lost elasticity and overall structure. There are four main types of wrinkles known as atrophic crinkling rhytids, permanent elastic creases, dynamic expression lines, and gravitational folds. Atrophic crinkling rhytids run parallel, are generally not very deep, and are not noticeable when your skin is stretched taught. They are likely to first appear on your face and are caused by a loss in collagen. You’ll first notice a slight sag to your skin. The biggest culprit is UV damage. Regular sun exposure will continue to make these wrinkles worse. The easiest way to effectively treat them is to avoid direct sun exposure when possible, and to maintain regular sunscreen application. Topical treatments can be very effective in minimizing the appearance. Use Retin-A to stimulate collagen production. Permanent elastic creases are found on your face, cheeks, upper lip, and the base of your neck. They are formed as a result of sun exposure and are especially prominent on those who smoke. The repeated facial movements as you inhale harmful cigarettes combined with the included chemicals kick this form of wrinkle into over drive. Dynamic expression lines are a result of repeated facial muscle movements that form a crease in the skin. These smile/frown lines will eventually be permanent unless powerful topical products, or cosmetic intervention is used. You’ll notice them around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Because this form of wrinkle is caused by facial movements such as squinting, and even laughing, there’s little you can do to inhibit the formation. Gravitational folds are the most severe form of wrinkle and occur late in life on very matured skin. As you may have guessed, gravity is the main culprit. These wrinkles are most apparent on thinner frames due to less fat content, and are most noticeable under the eyes, at the jaw line, and chin. Did you know? Wrinkles can be treated throughout every step of your skincare routine. From serums to lotions, and even cleansers, find the right products for you below. EYES - CROWS FEET, SAGGING SKIN, PREVENTATIVE & INITIAL SIGNS La Roche-Posay Active C Eyes Dermatological Anti-Wrinkle Treatment  Murad Intensive Wrinkle Reducer For Eyes La Roche-Posay Redermic C Eyes Anti-Wrinkle Firming Moisture Filler Fresh on the skin with no side effects, it slows visible signs of aging around the delicate eye area. Protect and enhance with a boost of Vitamin C. Reduce crows feet by up to 33% in just 4 weeks! Also improve overall firmness by up to 40% for a more youthful, and vibrant appearance. Target your loss of firmness with fragmented Hyaluronic Acid, pure Vitamin C, Mannose, and Neurosensine. Hydration visibly reduces wrinkles for a plumped and lifted texture.   FACE - FINE LINES TO DEEP DEPRESSIONS, AND EVEN SUN DAMAGE   Keyano Eterna Bella Anti Wrinkle Cream La Roche-Posay Redermic C Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizing Filler for Normal to Combination   Avene Retrinal Advanced Wrinkle Corrector The ultimate botox alternative! Reverses the effects of sun damage to erase lip lines, while firming and toning all treated areas for a more youthful appearance.  Immediately blurs uneven skin tone for a more even complexion, complete with a non-greasy and velvety texture. Suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. Intensely concentrated to visibly correct the most pronounced wrinkles and deep furrows for more radiant skin. Featuring a patented combination of powerful ingredients for maximum precision and efficiency.   Early treatment is key to long term prevention! Age gracefully by taking a few minutes each day to treat, protect, and hydrate your skin. If you have any questions regarding the right skincare products or tools for you, chat with an askderm product specialist below. Follow askderm on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter to be the first to know about giveaways, new product releases, and sales! Use #askderm when you share photos of our products, and showcase your amazing results! 

Dull lack luster skin, loss of youthful plumpness, age spots and uneven skin tone all have something in common besides making you feel less than confident about your face. All of these common beauty woes can all be treated with the use of one ingredient, Vitamin C!Vitamin C is involved in the production of collagen. Collagen gives our skin its elasticity and plumpness. Over our lifetime the amount of Vitamin C found in the skin naturally decreases. Another way Vitamin C can keep us looking youthful is by preventing and reversing damage from the sun. This powerful antioxidant fights free radicals that cause cellular damage. Age spots are not because you are getting older, they occur because your skin was overexposed to the sun, and the cells responsible for pigmentation have been permanently damaged.While some vitamins and minerals are better absorbed through diet, Vitamin C is a powerhouse when applied topically. Studies have shown that Vitamin C has about a 20 times better absorption rate when applied topically rather than taken orally! What to look for when choosing a Vitamin C product:Look for an airtight container that is opaque. Exposure to Air and light will break down Vitamin C, making it less effective.Choose a product that has the percentage on the label. Anything containing less than 10% Vitamin C will yield little to no results from this antioxidant.What to know when using a Vitamin C product:While some people might notice a change in their skin’s appearance in as little as 2 week, give up to 8 weeks before you start to notice an improvement. Maximum results will be achieved after 6 months of continuous use.Vitamin C (in the form of L-ascorbic acid) is a great ingredient to use on your skin post laser or microdermabrasion as it has anti-inflammatory properties and will prevent new skin discoloration.This powerful antioxidant turns over cells and can lead to flaking, dry skin, so it is important to apply a moisturizer over a Vitamin C serum.So, for that part about why including Vitamin C into your skin care routine is so important - imagine a glowing complexion, a more even skin tone with less fine lines and no hyperpigmentation.  A better skin care regiment, with better ingredients can have you looking your best by the time spring has arrived. Once this fresh face is achieved, you will be far less likely to revert back to your old bad habits. Those toxic skin habits, like unprotected sun exposure are soon to be in your rear view mirror because you are about to put your best, fresh face forward come 2014!Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal MoniqueChantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

Botox®- injectables The Average cost for Botox®- injectables ranges from $400 - $1000 based on where you are located and how many injections you receive per visit. The Botox® injections lasts approximately 4 months.   Here are some amazing topical alternatives you could apply at home instead that range from  $36.95 - $260.00 for a 3-4 month supply:   DS Laboratories Viterol.A - for Wrinkles and Expression Lines - General Face Area - $36.95 Viterol.A is the first anti-aging aid that contains viatrozene, a new compound that visibly reduces wrinkles and expression lines and significantly improves the over-all skin health. The greatest benefit of Viterol.A is that it is a continuous and safe treatment, the effect of which does not wear off.  For full details go to: Viterol.A   Neova Refining Eye Lift - $57.00 This serum contains Copper Peptide Complex and DNA Repair Mitosomes to give you the immediate appearance of tightening and firming. For full details go to: Refining Eye Lift   Keyano Eterna Bella Anti Wrinkle Cream - $71.00 Eterna Bella contains the highest concentration of active tissue regenerating anti-aging botanicals designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For full details go to: Eterna Bella   Dremu Oil - $88.00 Dremu Oil provides rehydrating benefits as well as collagen boosting penetration. For full details go to: Dremu Oil   Freeze 24/7 Instant Targeted Wrinkle Treatment - $95.00 Immediate gratification: Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles within minutes of application. Reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, acne scars, stretch marks, rosacea and provides an improved surface for makeup application. For full details go to: Instant Targeted Wrinkle Treatment   Freeze 24/7 Anti-Aging Eye Serum - $115.00 Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles directly under and around the eye area within minutes of application. Reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eye area by rapidly bringing oxygen and nutrients to the area. For full details go to: Anti-Aging Eye Serum   PREVAGE MD (1% Idebenone) - $120.00 Idebenone (hydroxydecyl ubiquinone) is an antioxidant. Antioxidants protect cells from environmental damage, improve the appearance of fine lines, reduce dryness, and smooth skin texture. For full details go to: Prevage MD   SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum - $260.00 This unparalleled anti-aging serum is the first to combine the benefits of the patented growth factor serum, with potent antioxidants, peptides and other innovative anti-aging ingredients to regenerate your skin. For full details go to: TNS Essential Serum  

PMD Personal Microderm offers you the ability to duplicate a professional Spa/Dermatology treatment in the comfort of your own home without the hassle or costs associated with a professional in-office treatment.  The PMD Personal Microderm device is an innovative at-home skincare tool with a patented spinning disc and unique vacuum suction feature that provides the ultimate in-home skin exfoliation experience. How does it work? Patented Spinning Disc Technology allows the aluminum oxide crystals to effortlessly glide across the skin and effectively exfoliate without the hassle of manual scrubbing. This process removes the dead skin cells and allows for the formation of new skin cells that have the appearance of freshly rejuvenated skin. The result is skin that feels soft, looks vibrant, and feels completely revitalized. The Power of Suction is a technology developed by PMD that literally increases your blood flow to the surface of your skin.  This process stimulates circulation and prompts your body to stimulate the natural production of collagen and elastin.  The result is skin that feels completely rejuvenated, firmer, and has a new radiant glow. The Benefits An in-home treatment without the cost or hassle of going to a Spa, Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon Revitalizes your skin by removing the superficial skin layers stimulating new collagen and elastin production Softens fine lines and wrinkles Increases the penetration of any topical treatment you are using thereby increasing it’s effectiveness Helps smooth rough or coarsely textured skin Evens out skin that is discolored or has uneven tones Helps minimizes large pores 

While dull skin is a common complaint from people who are concerned with the inevitability of aging, lack-luster skin becomes more of an issue during the colder winter months. With a few changes to one’s skin care regiment, a healthy glow can once again be achieved.What is dull skin and what causes it?When skin is described as being dull what we are actually seeing and talking about is a buildup of dead skin cells within the Stratum Corneum, or the out most layer of our skin, the Epidermis. The skin’s average natural turn over rate is about 28 days. This rate slows as we age and can be anywhere from 30 days to 3 months! The reason a small child’s skin is so soft and looks so healthy is due to an on average 14-day cellular turnover rate.What many people do not know is that factors such as smoking, UV exposure, dehydration, and makeup can all negatively affect cellular turnover. How to regain that glow:Exfoliation- Remove excess dead skin and makeup residue by using a cleansing devise like the Clarisonic or FOREO Luna daily, a gentle scrub two or three times a week, or an at home chemical peel of glycolic or lactic acid weekly. Moisturize- When the skin cells are hydrated and the lipid barrier of the skin is healthy, the entire process of cellular turnover occurs with more ease and happens with less irritation.Vitamin C- topical Vitamin C delivered through a product like a serum is a great way to brighten a complexion. Vitamin C slows free radical damage that occurs from ultra violet radiation and may prevent DNA damage in the nucleus of the cell.  This antioxidant is pivotal in the production of collagen and combating photodamage. Essential Fatty Acids- Oils and foods high in Omegas such as fatty fish, nuts, flax and fish oil actually help the skin retain moisture. This can decrease the chances of skin sensitivity, inflammation and dermatitis.These few tips should help you regain and maintain a healthy glow throughout the long winter months.Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal MoniqueChantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you have probably heard from one place or another whether it be the radio, television, newspaper or even from your local esthetician the topic of parabens. In regards to skincare, O'm here to help inform you and let you decide for yourself where you stand on the subject. This has been a very popular and largely discussed subject throughout the past few decades. There have been many myths and misconceptions about parabens that leave many unsure how they really feel about the ingredients that are included in their favorite products. These products that include parabens are found everywhere and have many people who support them and others rallying against them. What Exactly Are Parabens? Why Are They Used? Parabens are found EVERYWHERE! You will find them in a vast majority of your cosmetic, beauty and hygienic products. Whether it’s hair care products, moisturizers, cosmetics or deodorants to name a few, you have been exposed to parabens at one point or another. The parabens in products are easily identifiable with names such as Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben and Benzylparaben which are some of the most popular…all including ‘paraben’ in the labels. Parabens are synthetic compounds which are commonly used preservatives in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. These preservatives are highly effective in protecting products against bacteria, microbial growth and other harming microbes. These parabens extend the shelf life of the merchandise as well as the reliability of the product. This form of preservative helps the items you purchase from expiring too quickly as well as avoids mold and other harmful bacteria from growing in your products and mistakenly be transmitted to you. In short, parabens are preservatives. Parabens and The FDA Surprisingly, the Food and Drug Association (FDA) is not required to approve of ingredients that are added to the cosmetics that are being sold. The FD&C Act (Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act) allows manufacturers to add any ingredients that they may like to a product except a handful, which due to regulations are prohibited.Of course though, even with a lenient set of regulations for the manufactures to follow, any contaminated ingredients which are those containing any poisonous or harmful substances that could possibly cause injury or harm are prohibited in products. Throughout the years there have been many reviews on the safety of parabens and these studies have concluded that we as consumers have nothing to worry about. The parabens are usually used at very low levels between 0.01% to 0.3% and can be used as high as 25% safely as studied by the Cosmetic Ingredients Review (CIR) in 1984. In 2004 a study had been published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology which found traces of parabens in breast tumors. But there were never levels of parabens to compare in normal tissue. That being said, the study didn’t show that parabens were a cause of cancer and in fact whether they are even harmful to the consumer at all. Throughout the years many panels had reopened these reviews trying to find out if there are any safety concerns with the use of parabens but at each review they found it is safe to use and established there is still no reason to change the current regulations. The Bottom Line When It Comes To Parabens… We are a society that is scared and worried about many things from the effects of vaccines to eating non-organic foods and just like many other popular topics that may have you on the fence, ultimately it is a personal decision and what is right for you. With the FDA believing that there is nothing to cause concern and the amount of continuing research and evaluating data that will continue on, I personally feel safe using products containing parabens for myself and my family. The amount that is included in our products are so very low and are ‘fully metabolized before they enter the bloodstream’. Knowing this, it helps reassure me on my decision. There are so many different products, foods, ingredients and even activities that we still are determining what effects there will be in the long run but ultimately the FDA is created to keep us, the consumers, safe and out of harm’s way. I choose to trust not only the FDA but my good instinct in determining what is right for my family. There are several products and foods that are deemed ‘safe’ by the FDA that I would never consume or even allow my children to sample and I based those decisions on my gut instinct and my logic. These parabens are found in so many different products and there are some companies that have chosen to jump on the bandwagon and advertise paraben free products for those whom what to live a paraben-free lifestyle. I have purchased both items with parabens and also paraben-free products and they both work just as well. The biggest difference you will see between the two is the expiration date since paraben-free products will expire much quicker. Regardless if you decide to go paraben free or continue using the low amount of paraben in products, the bottom line is it’s a personal choice and it’s up to you and your good judgement to decide what’s best for you and your family.     Blog Written by askderm's Guest Esthetician  Stephanie Ivonne is a New Jersey licensed Esthetician.  Her fun-loving, outgoing personality will shine through her product selections & reviews to help you discover the hottest skincare and beauty products. When Stephanie is not scouring the internet for the next hot skincare product, she is a mother to two wonderful biological children, a dedicated foster mom and is devoted to her husband of 13 years.

Have you ever noticed a bumpy red rash on the back of someone’s arms? Or even worse, you decided to check out your derrière in the mirror only to be startled, when you realized it is covered in red pimply, “chicken skin” like bumps? Chances are you know someone who has this skin issue, or you have it yourself!   This common skin condition is called Keratosis Pilaris (commonly referred to as KP). The signature red bumps are formed when keratin (a protein) hardens within the hair follicle. Most of these bumps contain a coiled ingrown hair, which has been encapsulated by the keratin pug; this prevents it from exiting the follicle and growing naturally above the skin’s surface. Most commonly, KP appears on the upper arms, legs and buttocks and is usually accompanied by dry skin. Almost half the world’s population has KP and this skin disorder is more common among women, than men. While there is no health risks associated with KP it can be unsightly, embarrassing and a cosmetic issue.   There are a few ways to treat KP:   1. Chemical Keratolytic treatments: This treatment will help cellular turnover, breaking down the hardened keratin plug. Product ingredients, which aids in this process include: topical retinoids (vitamin A), Alpha Hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic acids) and Beta Hydroxy acid (salicylic acid).   2. PhysicalExfoliants: will help with the rough bumpy texture of the skin. If your “red goose bumps” are accompanied by whiteheads however, avoid scrubs as they can rupture and spread bacteria across the surface of the skin.   3. Moisturizing: When moisture levels are balanced and the skin is healthy, the skin’s natural shedding process occurs at a normal rate. Lotions and moisturizer help soften the hardened Keratin plugs. Urea is a great skincare ingredient to look for when choosing a KP appropriate moisturizer. Urea is a humectant, meaning it helps draw water into the surface of the skin. Cold, dry winter air and dry indoor heat often worsen symptoms, so start treating your "red goose bumps" now before they worsen. Check out askderm’s extensiveproducts containing the KP fighting ingredients listed above and share with us your regiment for treating Keratosis Pilaris.   Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician  Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers.