Skin Aesthetics
The "ugly" things
Novelette Bodden,.
Certified Aesthetician
The "ugly things" are the devastating effects that result from some of our, poor choices in health and skin care options.
I have already discussed nutrition, exercise, smoking, drinking, sunning and relaxation as well as the good and bad of each.
Now lets look at a few other treatments that have the ability to leave the skin with a case of the "uglies".
Over-processed skin with the ability of ingredients to enhance cell turnover resulting in softer, smoother more youthful appearance. The trend seems to be more is better, but nothing could be further from the truth!
Prolonged use of alpha-hydroxy acids, glycolic peels, retinols and other exfoliants only deliver over-processed, over-aged skin.
The skin has the ability to naturally exfoliate on its own. As we age, this process slows and it is beneficial to enhance this process, but there is a fine line between enhancing and overdoing!
Over-processed skin simply result in skin looking worse than it did when the treatment began.
Professional peels, whether they are glycolic, AHA's, other chemical peels, or microdermabrasion should be given in appropriate series and not in excess.
All of these treatments enhance cell turnover but the skin must be given the opportunity to return to it's normal cell renewing function for a period of time. In order words, give it a break!
It is important to understand that excessive exfoliation and peeling can dehydrate and sensitize the skin.
I like to recommend to my clients that they exfoliate two times per week at home, of course with a gentle exfoliant that I know and recommend.
AHA and glycolic products should only be used for a recommended period. This regimen gives the skin a chance to function on its own, and appreciate the more aggressive treatments at the appropriate times.
Plastic Surgery: By no means do I want to characterize plastic surgery as an "ugly thing", because in many cases, it is not only necessary, but the results are incredibly beautiful!
However here is an example of how too much good can be ugly! Excessive plastic surgery results can be similar to excessive exfoliation.
We have all seen the person that had too many facelifts! It doesn't look natural or healthy!
Remember you skin is the reflection of your health, lifestyle and your choices.
I have entered into the skin care profession because of my passion for beauty, both inside and out. Knowing what is good, what is bad and how quickly it turns ugly makes the daily choices for beauty and health quite simple.
It's an interesting catcth-22, when you look good, you feel good; and when you feel good it shows!
Novelette Bodden
Spa Novell