Stop Treating Your Adult Acne Like a Teenager!

 Growing up isn’t just about getting a job, getting married, paying bills etc. It’s also about knowing how to take care of yourself. The breakouts you experienced when you were younger are much different than the breakouts you’re experiencing now. The products you use and how you treat your breakouts have to be suitable for your age.

No more Drying Products!

When you were younger you probably reached for products formulated to dry out those blemishes with antibacterial ingredients, and they probably worked. However, as we age acne tends to go away on it’s own, but in our minds we believe those drying products deserve all the credit, we are very wrong. As our skin ages those same acne products we were using in our teens will do more harm than good for us. They will dry out your skin leaving it in an unhealthy state and could accelerate the arrival of wrinkles!  What you want to be using is a cleanser with glycolic acid, which will act an exfoliator to destroy acne-causing bacteria from your skin without over drying. The IS Clinical Cleansing Complex is perfect for this.  It is effective, but not drying so even those with sensitive skin would love this product.

Forget about past skin concerns

Make sure you are treating your current skin concerns based on what’s going on in the present vs. what occurred in the past. Your acne now opposed to your acne when you were a teen is probably not as severe or wide spread, so instead of applying acne treatments to your entire face try applying it as a spot treatment instead. The Glytone Acne 3P Gel is great for this! Its non-irritating formula helps clear acne, blackheads, and white heads. It also helps keep your skin clear of new acne blemishes while allowing the skin to heal from past breakouts.

Exfoliate and Hydrate

One of the hardest parts of dealing with adult acne is that you are also dealing with aging skin. You don’t only want to keep the skin clear you want it to appear youthful and radiant as well. The key to this is exfoliating and moisturizing! The reason you need to exfoliate is to get rid of that dead layer of skin in order to unclog your pores and prevent breakouts. Exfoliating also encourages the production f new, healthy, fresher skin cells! The SkinKure microdermabrasion scrub is our go to product for this; it will leave your skin feeling fresh and smooth after every use, which will allow your skin to properly absorb your other products including your moisturizer. Staying moisturized is vital to keep your skin youthful. One of our favorite moisturizers is Epionce Renewal Facial Lotion; it’s perfect for normal to combination skin types. It is lightweight and moisturizes without leaving you feeling greasy, and makes your skin appear smoother and softer.

If you still aren’t sure what you should be using call and setup an appointment for a skincare consult with our Master Esthetician. She can help you get on a regimen based on your skin type and concerns.

Morning Vs. Night Skincare

The Morning

You’re morning routine should revolve around protecting your skin for the day ahead of you. You want to make sure your skin is clean, hydrated and protected.

Our favorite products for the morning are IS Clinical’s Pro Heal and Elta MD’s Sunscreen. The IS Clinical’s Pro Heal is a great source of antioxidants and vitamin C for your skin. Allowing not only for hydration, but also anti aging. You should apply this product in the morning to a clean face. The Elta MD sunscreens are a client favorite here at Mclean Derm. Whether you’re looking for a sunscreen for acne prone, dry skin, or even a sunblock with a slight tint Elta MD has you covered and fully protected! Even though summer is over make sure you are protecting your skin whenever you will be exposed to the sun. Just because the weather is no longer warm doesn’t mean those UV rays can’t get to you. 

The Night

While you’re sleeping is the best time to focus on repairing your skin! You want to make sure you are taking advantage of those 8 hours to get the most out of growth factors, peptides, and hydration.

Our favorite products for nighttime are TNS Essential Serum and Epionce Intensive Nourishing Cream.  The TNS Essential serum is ultra hydrating without being too heavy or oily and contains growth factors to help build collagen. You should apply this to a clean face before you apply your moisturizer. Hydration is vital overnight! The Epionce Intensive Nourishing Cream works wonders on extremely dry skin and helps repair damaged areas of the skin while reversing the signs of aging.

Halloween Makeup 101

To avoid allergic reactions and breakouts from thick Halloween makeup be sure to follow these steps. 

• What kind are you using? 

You’ll want stay away from thick white/colored makeup on the skin. Go for thin waterproof makeup instead. 

• Ingredients to Avoid: Silicon & Dimethicone 

• Do a skin patch test! 

Before you cover your entire face in makeup test the products on a small area of skin. In this case it is much better to be safe rather than sorry later. Just like any new product you’re trying out face paint/makeup is no different; there could be irritants in the products that just don’t agree with your skin. 

• Watch out for your Eyes!

Make sure any product you plan on using around or near your eyes will not irritate or harm them. This is where reading a label is absolutely necessary.

• Clean it off!

Be sure to wash it off with makeup remover right after! You do not want to let the makeup simmer on your skin and block pores. 

Get Party Perfect for the Holidays!

It's holiday party time, and we have the perfect treatments to get you looking party perfect!

For the eyes
It's really hard to feel bright and cheerful for the holidays when your eyes are tired and puffy. Two of our favorite products for under eye puffiness are Nectifrim and Neotensil. Nectifirm can help tighten the under eye skin in a matter of just 8 weeks. It's typically used for the neck and décolletage; however, it works wonders under the eyes a well! Neotensil is a "shapewear film" that's applied in two steps to dramatically smooth out puffiness, so well that you don't even need concealer!

For the lips
With the use of Juvéderm we can get you kissable just in time for the holidays. When most people think of fillers they think of the extremes, but with just the slightest amount you can really accentuate and highlight the lips without looking overdone.

For the Face
Our fall facial specials are perfect to help you achieve glowing skin for all of your holiday parties. Our pumpkin-honey facial can help you achieve a flawless complexion, and our Thanksgiving pie facial or Ice and Spice peel will exfoliate your skin leaving it radiant.

For the lashes
Thicker, longer lashes can really transform your face. The added volume and length can make your eyes appear brighter and healthier! Latisse is a product favorite here in the office as well as Minky's eyelash extensions; which add instant volume, no mascara needed! Ask Dr. Lily and she can show you hers!  

Don't be so Sensitive!

We all have a favorite tried and true product that has seen us through the years.  Whether it’s the perfect shade of lipstick or the flawless finish of a particular foundation, sometimes we may find that our love for a product goes unrequited. Over time, you may notice that the product you’ve been devoted to doesn’t love and your skin the way it used to. Don’t be so sensitive! Various internal and external factors may hinder the way the skin responds to different ingredients and may cause sensitivity resulting in some serious changes. When you’re skin deems a substance to be a threat, it will signal to you that it may be time to make a change. Some warning signs may include:  

-Peeling

-Tightness

-Redness

-Burning or stinging

-Hives & Rashes

-Swelling & Puffiness

-Irritations

-Itching

If your skin is prone to sensitivity, pay close attention to the ingredients that make up your products and cosmetics. Avoid any product with fragrance, additives and preservatives, parabens, and certain dyes.  Be sure to take caution with soap. Soap is extremely alkaline and may strip the skin of its moisture leaving it raw, itchy, and peeling. Lastly, if you are on any acne medication (especially those containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid), be sure to stay hydrated and keep your skin moist. 

McLean Derm has Been Challenged!

We like to practice what we preach here at McLean Dermatology, so I am challenging my entire office to follow a diet low in carbohydrates and free of gluten and processed foods for the next month, and we want you to join us! I will be here to help you along the way with weekly tips, tricks, and support to get you through the month. Why? Because going gluten-free is only half the battle when it comes to "eating clean." Eating whole, nutrient-dense foods that do not come out of a package is not only great for your skin but also for your overall health!

It may be difficult at first, but adequately preparing yourself for the change will allow for an easier transition. 

The key to staying on track is knowing what to reach for and what to avoid:

Diets don't have to be monotonous either! There is so much you can do with a natural, low carb, gluten-free diet to keep it interesting and fun without taking a step into the "gluten-free" aisle of carbohydrates, preservatives, and other sugars. We will be posting weekly recipes of gluten-free treats we are trying ourselves! 

Join us in our challenge! If you do decide go gluten-free, we’d love to hear from you! Send us recipes, photos, or even stop by to let us know how you’re doing. Good luck! I know you can do it! You won’t be disappointed with the results you see in your skin!

Bye Bye Brown Spots!

Playing in the sun is fun when you're young, but as you age you may find that what was once a smattering of endearing summertime freckles has now become radiance robbing dark spots and uneven pigmentation. In order to properly treat these pesky pigmentation issues, it is important to understand and differentiate between the different types of pigmentation and the severity of their damage. 

Melasma

What to look for: Spots can range from light to medium brown in splotchy patches that are inconsistent in shape and size. This is typically found on the cheeks, sides of the face, nose, forehead, and above the lip. These spots are typically related to hormonal changes and commonly appear during pregnancy or the start of birth control combined with sun exposure. 

Sunspots (Age Spots)

What to look for: Spots ranging from a light to dark brown and that develop as small, flat, dark spots. These spots are found most commonly on the face, chest, and hands. As the name implies, these spots are caused purely by the sun. 

Post-Inflammatory Hyper Pigmentation

What to look for: Spots ranging from pink, red, or brown in color and that develop as flat spots on the skin. These may be found anywhere on the face. These are caused by inflamed and/or irritated acne. 

Freckles

What to look for: These spots can be in a wide range of colors. They can appear to be light to dark brown or even red or black. They typically occur on the face, chest and arms in concentrated small spots. The sun is mostly to blame for this form of pigmentation as well! 

 1. IS Clinical Lightning Complex and Serum: These two products help with those pesky dark spots by providing antioxidant protection, reducing inflammation, inhibiting the production of melanin, and exfoliating the skin without excess peeling or irritation. These products both have gentle yet powerful formulas to help achieve lighter, healthier skin. 

2. 3 Step Vivatia Advanced Skincare System: This three step system visibly improves dark spots and pigmentation within four weeks! The kit includes a Gentle Cream Cleanser, Active Repair and The Gentle Cream Cleanser is designed to help restore your moisture barrier while gently cleansing your skin. The Active Repair Complex is gentle on the skin but yet powerful enough to give you younger, more radiant-looking skin. The Brightening Complex will help even out your skin tone and fade dark spots for more luminous looking skin.

3. Hydroquinone Pads: These work to lighten dark spots by inhibiting the production of melanin which gives pigment to the skin. Depending on your skin type we can provide you with the correct formulation to insure you get the best results. These can be used to help with any of the above types of Hyper Pigmentation.

4. Elta Md Sunscreen: After taking care of the appearance of your hyper pigmentation it is vital that you try to prevent it from happening again, so you need to make sure you are always wearing your sunscreen! Elta Sunscreen is definitely a client favorite here in our office!

Still have questions? Dr. Lily and our Master Estheticians are always happy to recommend treatments and products tailored to your specific goals and concerns. Call us today so we can determine the best option for you! 

SKIN DETOX: Go Gluten-Free...the Right Way

In 10 years you'll think about gluten the way you think about cigarettes. 

Gluten is a protein found naturally in many foods. It is also mixed into processed foods. While gluten intolerance is commonly associated with Celiac disease, many people do not realize that sensitivity to gluten is common among many people without Celiac disease, and has been linked to many other health complications. Gluten intolerance is a growing epidemic.

The human body has a difficult time breaking down gluten; however, attributing symptoms to gluten intake can be difficult for people because it has become a staple in the American diet. Recurring stomach pain, rashes, or fatigue should not be ignored; heart disease, Alzheimers, inflammatory bowel disease, and autoimmune diseases are only some of the health problems which gluten intake can cause. Eliminating gluten from the diet entirely is the only way to prevent its complications.

Gluten intolerance is often associated with stomach discomfort and digestive problems, however, it can also cause other symptoms without causing severe stomach upset. Other symptoms have frequently been linked to the following skin conditions:  

- Red skin rashes on the face that burn or itch

- Acne

- Red skin blemishes resembling acne

If you suspect that you are sensitive to gluten, eliminate it from you diet completely for at least two months to see if symptoms improve. Consult with your primary care physician or dietician prior to starting your new diet to ensure that you will be still be able to consume essential vitamins and minerals.

Understanding which foods have gluten is CRUCIAL to avoiding it entirely. Some food labels mention that gluten is included while others do not; gluten is often “hidden” within other ingredients listed on nutrition labels, so be sure they are truly gluten free before eating them!

Foods that are allowed:
Vegetables
Most dairy products
Unprocessed legumes (beans, nuts, seeds)
Fresh meats
Fresh fish
Fresh poultry
Rice
Buckwheat
Corn and cornmeal
Rice flour
Soy flour
Corn flour
Potato flour
Bean flour
Quinoa
Soy
Tapioca
Flax
Teff
Amaranth
Arrowroot
Sorghum
Pure apple cider vinegar
Pure balsamic vinegar
 

Foods to avoid:
Wheat
Barley
Oats
Rye
Spelt
Kamut
Pizza
Pasta
Breads and rolls
Processed lunch meats
Seasoned rice mixes
Salad dressings
Potato chips
Tortilla chips
Wraps
Malt, malt flavoring, malt vinegar
Triticale
Bulgar
Durum flour
Farina
Graham flour
Beer
Cakes & pies
Candy
Cereals
Cookies
Crackers
Croutons
French fries
Gravies
Imitation meat or seafood
Matzo
Soup

The NOTICEABLE difference between corrective makeup and camouflage makeup

Acne scars, pigmentation, melasma - if you have these, you struggle to cover them up. But instead of hiding them, why not treat them?

Be careful when purchasing makeup, however, because there is a big difference between over-the-counter corrective makeup and skin camouflage products. For example, skin camouflage products are designed to last 8-16 hours and are significantly water resistant making them harder to wash off at the end of the day. A great way to avoid that "caked on"  look is to apply an oil-free tinted moisturizer like our Avene Tinted Compact with SPF or Revision's Intellishade Matte. 

Now if you are looking to really cover up a stubborn dark spot or scar try Dermablend Cover Cream or Foundation. It's great for both moderate to major imperfections. Warning: markup should enhance your beauty, not make you look fake. We are here to not only make you look beautiful, but feel beautiful as well.

#mcleanderm #askdrlily #dermablend #makeupdoneright #beauty #healthyskin #loveyourskin

What's in your makeup? There's an app for that!

Are you worried about possible harmful ingredients in your cosmetics? Download this app on your phone!

#mcleanderm #cosmetics #makeup #thinkdirty #askdrlily

Introducing: Farmhouse Fresh!

McLean Dermatology is proud to announce that we now carry Farmhouse Fresh products in our office.

Each Farmhouse Fresh product is made with 90-99% natural and naturally-derived ingredients. Everything they make is Paraben and Sulfate FREE. Man

y of their products are also Vegan and Gluten FREE.

Not to mention, they smell so good you could almost eat them!

To learn more about these awesome products visit their website and stop by the office to pick up yours today!

Melanoma Monday: May is Melanoma Awareness Month

Drivers are failing to use their sunscreen. Utilizing sun protection measures while driving is just as important as wearing your sunscreen at the beach.

Most patients feel it is unnecessary to apply sunscreen before driving in their car.  Compared to the 73% of the public who apply daily general sunscreen, only 48% of people apply their SPF before getting in the driver seat.

Poor compliance with the application of sun protection can result in the development of deadly skin cancers. Make sure to purchase your sunscreen before the summer sun sneaks through your windows.

" I Have Sensitive Skin! " But Do You Really?

Q: What exactly does “sensitive skin” mean?

A: The term “sensitive skin” is a marketing expression that really has no medical definition.

With over 60% of the population claiming they fall victim to so-called “sensitive skin,” it is easy to see why so many cosmetic companies market their products to this group.

There are three types of skin that tend to make up the population of sensitive skin sufferers: subjects with rosacea, subjects with atopic dermatitis, and subjects with cosmetic intolerance syndrome.

Tips:

1. Avoid over washing of the face.

2. Avoid products with fragrance, formulated with propylene glycol, lanolin, and paragons.

3. Moisturize 2 x a day to preserve the normal layer of the skin.

4. Avoid treatments with retinol, glycol acid or peels.

5. Test it...before you buy it.