Although skin around the eyes tends to be thinner than that found on the rest of the face, it is the same otherwise. While some individuals find that their regular facial moisturizer works just fine around the eye area, others find that it may be too heavy. This is highly dependent on each individual skin type as well as the formulation of the cream itself. Some face creams may be well tolerated on the rest of the face, but may lead to irritation and/or milia (blocked pores) around the eye area. If you are concerned that this may happen when you apply your regular face cream to the eye area, then do a patch test around the eye area to see if this occurs. If what you’re concerned about is dryness and the face cream is well tolerated, then you’ve just saved yourself the cost (and the additional time) that comes with using two eparate products.

Of course, if what you’re after is something to treat a problem associated with the eye area specifically - puffy eyes, under eye dark circles or crow’s feet – then you may need to consider an eye cream designed for this purpose. One caveat: most eye creams do not contain any sun protection. This is problematic since the eye area is one of the first to show signs of aging in terms of fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Whether your face cream doubles as your eye cream or you use one specifically formulated for that purpose, find a good UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen that protects your face (including the eye area) and use it every day. An ounce of prevention is worth it and your skin will thank you.

If you are looking for an eye cream, here are some to consider:

• Reversa Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream. This is one of a few eye creams that includes SPF protection along with ingredients that help to moisturize and help diminish appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Keys Eye Butter. This wonderfully natural eye cream contains antioxidants and is formulated to help the eye area look brighter.
• Neostrata Dark Circle Night Serum – Vitamin K and retinol have been clinically shown to help reduce the appearance of dark circles and fine lines in the eye area.
• La Roche Posay Redermic Eyes – Vitamin C and madecassoside help to boost collagen production helping to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet wrinkles

View all our eye treatments here

Other bedding such as seaweed mattress ticking that claims to rejuvenate skin and aloe vera pillowcases and blankets that vow to soothe and moisturize skin are also available. But can these products really work?

According to an article in the New York Times, some dermatologists are questioning the claims made by these manufacturers because clinical studies are lacking. Whether it’s aloe vera, seaweed or copper, the latest products owe their existence to nanotechnology that allows the component ingredients to be broken down into ultrafine particles that can then be imbedded into the fabric. There are proponents both for and against the efficacy of these products.

Read the full article here.

In an earlier post I discussed the importance of wearing sunscreen year round to keep skin looking young and healthy. Whether you lean towards a formulation with chemical sun filters as found in Anthelios sunscreens or Ombrelle sunscreens,  or opt for one that contains physical blocking agents like zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, ensure that it will deliver protection from both UVA and UVB rays and use it year round.

We get asked quite often why Anthelios sunscreens are effective. And though I’ve blogged about this before, I think it worth repeating:

• They are photostable. Photostability is important to ensure that the active ingredients will remain active upon exposure to the ultraviolet rays found in sunlight. Seems simple enough, but many sunscreens are formulated with ingredients that break down when the sun hits them. Anthelios sunscreens don’t
• They contain Mexoryl SX and/or Mexoryl XL. Combined with titanium dioxide and Parsol 1789 (avobenzone) stabilized with octocrylene, Anthelios sunscreens employ a patented sun filtering system that will protect you from from both short wave (UVB) and long wave (UVA) rays that lead to sunburn and photo aging
• They feel good on your skin. Unlike many other oily, greasy sunscreens available today, Anthelios sunscreens are formulated carefully to ensure that they are pleasing to use. And, there are a range of sprays, creams and lotions to suit all skin types. You’ll be able to find one that’s right for you.

*Not all Anthelios sunscreens are formulated equally. Newer versions DO NOT contain the patented Mexoryl SX/XL molecules. We only carry Anthelios sunscreens with Mexoryl at PharmacyMix, but many stores don’t. Read labels carefully.

Ombrelle sunscreens are manufactured using the same filtering system as Anthelios sunscreens and are a good alternative if cost is an issue.

According to a recent article, the condition is one that has existed in medical textbooks, but not commonly seen until now. Harsh cleaning chemicals and exotic wooden toilet seats are thought to be the culprits.

Many cases are seen by pediatricians with some children suffering for years before proper diagnosis. Treatment with topical steroids often resolves cases, but prevention is recommended as the most effective remedy.

Read the full story here.

But, you can’t pin everything on Mom because in addition to your genes, extrinsic factors (those you aren’t born with) are also at play. Extrinsic factors include things such as exposure to the sun, pollution and smoking. It also includes your diet, how you manage stress, how much sleep you get and what you eat. These are all things that are under your control.

Intrinsic factors will influence whether your skin is light or dark, how much melanin you produce and whether your pores are large, medium or small. But, if you spent most of your childhood getting sunburns and still don’t pay attention to your skin, even the greatest genes aren’t going to help you. Conversely, if your skin genetics aren’t of the highest pedigree, yet you watch your sun exposure, eat and live well and treat your skin to skin beneficial ingredients including antioxidants, cell communicating ingredients, exfoliants and sunscreen, then your skin will show it.

Great looking skin is under your control. And no, if it ages poorly, you can’t blame Mom.

At this time of year in particular, when low humidity and low temperatures contribute to skin dryness, the lips can take a beating. Exposure to UV rays (yes, UVA rays are prevalent even during winter), smoke and pollution can take their toll leaving lips looking flaky and dry. This may lead to soreness and or bleeding. Aging can deliver another blow by contributing to a decrease in collagen production resulting in thin, discolored lips, with fine lines and wrinkles surrounding them.

Because skin on the lips is extremely thin and lacks oil glands, it is more prone to dryness and damage than other parts of the body. The daily use of a well formulated UVA and UVB blocking lip balm is important to protect against sun damage. And, supplementing with hydrating lip balms/creams throughout the day and at night will help to provide and seal in much needed moisture.

Combating Lip Wrinkles And Thinness

If your lips are beginning to thin, you may decide to opt for a surgical treatment with fillers. However, if your budget or your philosophy don’t lean this way, you may want to consider non-invasive lip treatments that have recently been introduced. Some lip treatments contain peptides, which have been shown to enhance the production of collagen that naturally declines with aging. Chemical exfoliants (alpha hydroxy acids - AHAs - for example) or manual ones (sugar scrubs, etc) will assist in improving the appearance of lips by removing dead, dry skin cells. AHAs are also thought to boost collagen production helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Lips may also benefit from retinol, a Vitamin A derivative, which stimulates collagen production and increases skin cell turnover.

Ingredients such as cinnamon leaf oil or niacin are great as temporary fix for plumper lips. They act as skin irritants, helping to boost circulation to the lip area leaving them looking fuller and redder. Both ingredients can irritate lips if applied over zealously so take care. And, don’t apply full strength solutions of either directly to lips as it will be far too irritating.

For lips that rival Angelina Jolie’s, here are some products to consider:

• Anthelios Lip Stick SPF 50+ or Antherpos Cream SPF 50 – UVA/UVB protection and soothing emollients will protect and moisturize
• Neostrata Anti-Wrinkle Lip Enhancer – Formulated with peptides, retinol and niacin, this new formulation is ideal for individuals concerned about thinning lips as well as wrinkles and fine lines
• Dr Hauschka Lip Balm and Dr Hauschka Lipstick are full of emollient botanicals to sooth irritated dry lips.

View all our lip treatments here.

Derm AOX contains:

• Carnosine. Originally from diabetes research, carnosine fights glycation, a process that causes sugar molecules naturally present in the skin to attach to collagen fibers making them hard and stiff. The result is skin that lacks in suppleness. An independent study found that carnosine works like a magnet to attract sugar away from collagen thereby inhibiting the glycation process by as much as 33%

• Pycnogenol. One of the most powerful antioxidants available, pycnogenol fights free radical damage associated with exposure to everyday living including UV rays and pollution. Free radicals contribute to the skin’s aging process including loss of elasticity and wrinkles.

• Vitamin C: One of the best know topical antioxidants, Vitamin C - http://blog.pharmacymix.com/topical-vitamin-c-different-forms-and-their-results neutralizes free radical damage. It has been shown to stimulate collagen production, brighten skin tone, diminish dark spots and increase the skin’s moisture content. In a study 77% of patients using Derm AOX demonstrated a significant reduction in the appearance of crow’s feet wrinkles.

Derm AOX Fights Oxidation

Oxidation occurs when oxygen combines with factors including UV rays and pollution leading to the develop of free radicals (unstable molecules). The end result is skin damage and a loss of radiance and vitality.

Derm AOX Fights Glycation?

Glycation occurs when sugar molecules that are naturally present in skin combine with collagen fibers, making them hard and brittle. The result is skin that loses elasticity and is wrinkled.

Derm AOX inhibits both glycation and oxidation to deliver smooth, radiant skin with fewer wrinkles. Since it is a serum, Derm AOX may be layered under other skin care products morning and evening. It may be used by all skin types to prevent the signs of aging. It can be purchased at PharmacyMix.

True, your head and face rest on your pillow at night, exposing your pillowcase to the natural oils that may form on your scalp and face. However, as long as you are shampooing your hair regularly and cleansing your face of make-up before going to bed, these natural oils should not be problematic. Normal to dry skin and hair would benefit from a weekly pillowcase change, probably at the same time you change your sheets as well. If you have oily hair and/or skin, you may wish to change the pillowcase twice a week, in between changing the bed linens. Any more often than this is probably overkill.

Of course, if you enjoy the smell and feel of freshly laundered bed linens (and who doesn’t) and have the time to change daily, then by all means do it. However, in these times, is it the greenest choice?

Formulated without the use of ingredients designed to reduce perspiration, Dr Hauschka deodorants instead rely on botanical ingredients that work to reduce odor without disturbing skin’s natural functions.

Key ingredients include:

• Zinc ricinoleate to reduce odor without disturbing the skin’s natural functions
• Neem, sage and witch hazel extracts to strengthen and balance delicate skin
• Pure essential oils to deliver subtle, natural scent

Choose from two fragrances, suitable for all skin conditions

• Dr Hauschka Floral Deodorant – infused with pure essential oils to provide a mild, clean scent
• Dr Hauschka Fresh Deodorant – A zesty citrus scent keeps you fresh all day long

Learn more and view all Dr Hauschka skin care and body care at PharmacyMix.com.

• SPF 15 sun protection (octocrylene, oxybenzone, avobenzone). Sun protection is an integral part of any skin lightening program as the sun is responsible for triggering production of melanin (skin’s pigment) associated with dark patches
• Vitamins C and E, antioxidants that are well known for their ability to fight free radical damage associated with aging skin. In addition, they help to protect cell membranes and can boost sun protection
• Hyaluronic acid. A humectant moisturizing agent, it works by drawing water into skin, helping keep it hydrated without oiliness
• Glycolic acid. An exfoliating agent, it works by removing dead, dry, hyperpigmented patches of skin. In addition, glycolic acid can assist with the penetration of hydroquinone.

Glyquin XM is indicated for the gradual bleaching of hyperpigmented skin conditions such as chloasma, melasma, freckles, solare lentigines and other unwanted areas of hyperpigmentation (darkened skin) caused by excess melanin. It works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is necessary for the production of melanin, helping to fade dark patches of skin.

How Fast Does Glyquin XM Work?

You should start to see results within 3 to 4 weeks. If no bleaching or skin lightening effect is observed within 2 months of use, you should discontinue GlyquinXM and check in with your skin care professional.

Is Glyquin XM Safe?

Hydroquinone, the active ingredient in Glyquin XM has been used for many years as an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. If used as directed it is safe and well tolerated. However, its use (like many other active skin care ingredients) may be associated with irritation and skin sensitivity in susceptible individuals. For this reason, always perform a patch test by applying a small amount of Glyquin XM to an unbroken patch of skin and check in 24 hours.

Minor redness isn’t an issue. However, don’t use if you develop a rash or excessive inflammation. You may wish to use this treatment under physician guidance.

Hydroquinone’s use has been associated with a condition known as exogenous ochronosis, characterized by skin discoloration of hyperpigmented patches. It is generally seen with prolonged use (more than six months) of high concentration (greater than 4%) usage. It is thought that hydroquinone products causing ochronosis may also be contaminated with steroids or mercury iodine. Keep in mind that while ochrononis may occur, it is not a common side effect if hydroquinone is used as directed. In order to avoid this side effect, many physicians recommended using hydroquinone products such as Glyquin XM in an on again, off again manner.

If skin darkening develops during the use of Glyquin XM, it’s use should be stopped and a physician consulted.

How To Use Glyquin XM

Apply to affected areas (take care not to apply to unaffected areas). Rub in well twice daily or as directed by a your physician. Ensure that you take precaution in the sun. Although Glyquin XM contains SPF protection, you may wish to use an additional UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen in conjunction with it.

Glyquin XM may be purchased over the counter without a prescription at PharmacyMix.com.