Gallaher Plastic Surgery & Spa MD: May 2015

The Truth About Anti-Aging Products

by Pamela Lane, LA

We all want to fight the signs of aging and so we go to the malls, our Estheticians and Dermatologists, hoping they will have the answer, maybe even the cure for our wrinkles. From fighting free radicals to stimulating skin's natural collagen production, anti-aging products make enticing promises.

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Peptides

As we age our skin gets thinner, loses fat and starts to sag and develop fine lines and wrinkles. We produce less collagen and elastin to keep our skin firm and plump. Peptides are small proteins that help stimulate new cells to grow and to help skin cells heal. Scientists are still not sure how beneficial these actually are because of the size of the molecule. They are rather large and that makes it more difficult to deeply penetrate the skin. They can, however, do some good in a moisturizer. This way they can hydrate the skin and make lines less noticeable. Whether they reduce wrinkles, the jury is still out.

TNS Recovery Complex by SkinMedica

TNS Essential Serum by SkinMedica

Bio Serum by Neocutis

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA's)

Examples are glycolic, lactic, and citric acids which are natural ingredients that come from fruits and milk sugars. They are great for exfoliation because they get rid of dead skin cells, allowing new cells to grow. Each acid does something different for the skin. Lactic Acid (comes from sour milk) removes dead skin cells so this will have a brightening effect. Glycolic Acid (comes from sugar cane) helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles which can make skin look smoother and tighter.

AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser by SkinMedica

Neo Cleanse Exfoliating Skin Cleanser by Neocutis

Retinols

A natural form of Vitamin A, this boosts the thickness and elasticity of the skin therefore reducing the signs of wrinkles. There is an abundant amount of evidence to support that retinol works! Finding it in the right products is the tricky part because you need to have enough to get results. Most over-the-counter products cannot put enough retinol in them to give you the benefits you need. See your Esthetician (Me!) or a Dermatologist to get the good stuff!

Nouvelle by Neocutis

Retinol Complex by SkinMedica

Tretinoin by Obagi

Antioxidents

Help fight cell damage from free radicals, which are molecules that could injure cells and increase inflammation. There are many antioxidants that are effective, however, the formulation is the most critical. Vitamins C and E are the most commonly used and time-tested.

ReActive by Neocutis

Vitamin C+E Complex by SkinMedica

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation and let me help you find your best skin!
Pamela Lane, Licensed Aesthetician

Gallaher PlasticSurgery & Spa MD
865-671-3888

FOR THE LOVE OF MAKEUP

by Jennifer Gibson, LA, MT, NT

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Do you love shopping for makeup, looking for new products and colors for each season to come? Or do you find that you stand and stare at the wall of cosmetic options at your local mega store only to leave empty handed and overwhelmed?

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As a makeup artist I understand how it can be sensory overload, and I love makeup. How do you choose the right foundation color, eye shadow color, makeup tools, or which look would best enhance your features? Scheduling a makeup lesson with a makeup artist is a fun stress free way to map it all out.

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When you book the appointment make sure you get the time you need. A special event makeup application is just that, an application. A makeup lesson will give you more time for learning. There are some items to take with you:

*what you are currently using*

*a few photos of a makeup look you like*

*a list of items you have but may have never used*

Most makeup items that are unused can become a new favorite with the right instruction.