women's skin care

Many of my patients, particularly women aged 20 to 50, are concerned about the same thing – a “mask” of mottled skin on the tops of the cheeks and temples. This common (and benign) condition is called melasma, a Greek derivation meaning “dark pigmentation of the skin.” Melasma can happen to anybody, but it is more common among darker-skinned people and those who tan easily.

There are many different brands of soaps and cleansers on the market today designed for many purposes, from fighting acne-causing bacteria to providing moisture. With so many different types of soap available today, it is hard to imagine how we ever survived with plain old-fashioned soap that was not designed for a specific skin type or purpose. As with any innovation, soap has gone through many changes since its inception thousands of years ago to become as varied and beneficial as it is today.

When considering cosmetic procedures, your own personal well-being and safety need to be your main concern. Always make sure to work with only trained and certified professionals. Never forego quality!

The economic crisis seems to have hurt and helped consumers at the same time. Many companies are offering products and services at significant discounts to encourage consumer spending. But one thing hasn’t seemed to change. Even in rough financial times, many women are still interested in cosmetic services. Wanting to look and feel our best is natural, and, for many, the economy is not going to change that.

Q: I never had acne as a teen, but now I have adult acne. What can I do?

A: Adult acne is more common than you may think. Twenty percent of women aged between 25 and 40 are affected by it, so you are not alone. Hormonal imbalances, often a symptom of PMS, are generally at the root of outbreaks, causing overactive sebaceous glands to produce excess oil. Stress can also play a big role in hormonal balance, elevating cortisol levels (the stress hormone) that pave the way for acne eruptions. Certainly, as we approach menopause, significant hormonal swings can prompt acne outbreaks – even if it has been 20 years since you had a pimple.

When it comes to acne, there’s a world of information out there that doesn’t square with the truth. That’s likely not shocking because most acne sufferers are intensely engaged with the condition and have tried everything to treat it. Many believe common myths about acne and repeat them to others, perpetuating the myths and misinformation. Here are a few examples of “common wisdom” that many share about acne.