Mischo Beauty: dermatologist

Showing posts with label dermatologist. Show all posts

Ask Mischo Beauty...

This week's question comes from my beauty editor-at-large, Zee's sister, who asked the following:

"What is the best regimen and product recommendations to recover from stress induced hair breakage?"

Well, first and foremost, I'd recommend seeing a dermatologist. While I do believe in self-diagnosis, hair loss of any type can be a serious matter. Seeing a doctor might insure that the breakage isn't being caused by any medically treatable factors. So, rule the medical factors out first!

Now stress does play a part in your health and is reflected in the health and ultimately the appearance of your hair, skin and nails. My next suggestion is that you evaluate your lifestyle and determine what you can do to combat the stress. Are you lacking sleep? Dehydrated often? Following an improper diet? Lacking exercise? If so, make changes as soon as possible, and enlist help if needed. And if opportunities to relax present themselves - take advantage of them!

Lastly, evaluate the products you're using for your hair and make sure they're appropriate for your hair type. Your hair is going to need lots of TLC to get it back to it's optimal health. So, if you aren't following a home haircare regimen- start one today! Also, add to that regimen a protein conditioner which is used to strengthen the hair. Protein conditioners should only be used according to the manufacturer's directions because improper use may result in breakage.

I really hope this helps!

If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com.

Ask Mischo Beauty...

This week's question comes from a reader, who asked the following:

"I just wanted to know if you have any suggestions on what I can do about the dark spots on my face. How can I get rid of them without a chemical peel?"

I could recommend a variety of products to treat your dark spots - called hyperpigmentation, but we really need to get to the bottom of WHY it's happening in the FIRST place! Do you follow a skincare regimen? Have you been consistent with your skincare regimen? Are you using the correct products for your skin type? Is something internal causing the dark spots? Are you allergic to certain ingredients in the products you're using? Do you have sensitive skin?

Ask yourself those questions and be honest with your answers! I'd also recommend a visit to the Dermatologist before you spend money on products! What works for one person, may not necessarily work for you. Your doctor should be able to help you get to the bottom of why this is happening, as well as give you proper direction on how to prevent it. I believe in prevention- first and foremost!

Once you've seen a Dermatologist and have been properly advised, I'd recommend that you start following a consistent skincare regimen using products specifically for your skin type/conditions. And, if you're able to- start investing in monthly facials! As I'm sure you've read on my blog, I BELIEVE in facials for so many beneficial reasons!

I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you decide to move forward!

If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com.

Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101

This post is in response to a few questions I've received from readers wanting to know where- or how, a peel would fit in with regards to exfoliation, and if a peel is too harsh on the skin, if you exfoliate regularly.

Well, the process of removing the excess accumulation of dead skin cells from the outer most layer of skin (epidermis) is referred to as superficial peeling or exfoliation. It can be accomplished mechanically (microdermabrasion), manually (scrubs), or chemically- which is the category that includes "peels".

Peels used by estheticians are designed to penetrate only the epidermis and are noninvasive/nonaggressive. "Deeper peels" which are those used by physicians (dermatologists) penetrate deeper into the skin (dermal layer - also called living tissue - which sits below the epidermis) and may use chemicals such as glycolic acid (50% or more).

So, now that we know that peels are a form of chemical exfoliation, here are a few of the many benefits:

1. Improves skin texture, hydration & moisture retention
2. Increases the rate of cell turnover
3. Improves elastin & collagen production
4. Reduces fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation issues
5. May control skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation & eczema

So you're probably wondering if you're a candidate for a peel? Well, in my professional opinion, if you could benefit from any of those listed above, then you're definitely a candidate for a peel administered by an esthetician. If exfoliation is a normal part of your skincare regimen, then a professional peel treatment, no more than once a month, should be sufficient.

Now, are you a candidate for a "deeper peel"? Possibly. After a thorough consultation/skin analysis, a dermatologist would best advise you. Please feel free to email me with any questions! Love your skin.

Mischo Beauty School: Hyperpigmentation 101

As a follow-up to this week's "Ask Mischo Beauty...", I realized it's been a while since I last discussed hyperpigmentation. I receive questions on Twitter, almost daily, from those wanting product recommendations to treat dark marks, spots and areas as a result of acne/breakouts. My response is always the same and focuses on PREVENTION. We all know that just about every brand makes a product to treat hyperpigmentation (either a spot treatment of some sort, or a fade cream). So I could very easily give out a list of products- and I do, but only after discussing prevention first.

Let me qualify all of this by stating that I am not a medical doctor and this response should not be mistaken as medical advice. My recommendation for treating hyperpigmentation is to see a dermatologist who can help you determine the cause, as well as the best treatment for it.

Hyperpigmentation is the overproduction of pigment (melanin) which results in discoloration or dark areas (spots, marks, etc.) on the skin. It may be caused by a number of internal or external factors such as sunlight, injury, trauma, medication, skin diseases and skin treatments and products. And, women of color are more susceptible to skin discoloration due to genetics and the differences in skin physiology. So, if you have a tendency for this skin condition, you should avoid the following:

1. Sun Exposure (it's one of the biggest causes of hyperpigmentation and will make existing disorders worse)

2. Deep Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion or Laser Services (these services could result in injury or trauma to the skin- make sure you see a highly skilled/trained practitioner for services such as these)

3. Over-Exfoliation (this will worsen the disorder and might cause hypopigmentation, which is the loss of pigment)

4. Manipulation of Pimples (don't EVER pick them! use an over-the-counter spot treatment or medication prescribed by your dermatologist to treat them)

As a licensed esthetician, my recommendation is first and foremost making sure you're using products for your particular skin type. Secondly, make sure you're consistent with your at-home skincare regimen. And most importantly, a visit to the dermatologist is an investment in YOU!

Any questions? Love your skin.

Ask Mischo Beauty...

This week's question comes from a reader, who asked the following:

"Thank you for the beauty tips you post on your page! They are incredibly helpful. I do have a question about facial skin care. My face, due to hormonal changes, broke out really badly some years ago and has left me with blemishes/dark marks on my cheeks (in fact when my face breaks out now it usually leaves a mark). What would you recommend to correct this? I'm not sure if I should see someone about facials, go to a dermatologist, or use an OTC fade cream? Thanks a million!"

You're very welcome! Now I could recommend a variety of products to treat hyperpigmentation, but it bothers me that your skin instantly leaves marks now after a breakout. You really need to get to the bottom of WHY that is happening in the FIRST place! Is it something internal? Are you using the wrong products? Are you allergic to certain ingredients? Is your skin super sensitive now?

I'd recommend a visit to the Dermatologist before you spend more money on products! Your doctor should be able to help you get to the bottom of why this is happening, as well as give you proper direction on how to prevent it. I believe in prevention- first and foremost!

Once you've seen a Dermatologist and have been properly advised, I'd recommend that you start following a consistent skincare regimen using products specifically for your skin type/conditions. And, if you're able to- start investing in monthly facials! As I'm sure you've read on my blog, I BELIEVE in facials for so many beneficial reasons!

I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you decide to move forward!

If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com.

Ask Mischo Beauty...

This week's question comes from Habibah, who asked the following:

"What tips/advice would you give to stop nail biting?"

I really wish I had the perfect answer for you! Nail biting is a hard habit to break. You should try to first determine the reason for the nail biting - which might mean seeing a dermatologist. Also, keep in mind the germs/bacteria you're passing back and forth between your nails/fingers and your mouth and the potential of infection!

I asked my friend Shalon, who is a licensed esthetician and manicurist, to share her best tips for preventing nail biting:

- Try to get weekly manicures. Keeping your nails neat and groomed may prevent you from trying to "groom" them yourself.

- If weekly manicures aren't in your budget, keep your nails polished. Knowing that you will mess up your polish may keep you from biting your nails.

- Keep a cuticle cream or oil (Kiehl's Cuticle Cream or OPI's Cuticle Oil) in your purse. This will help with nail growth. Once you see growth, hopefully this will discourage you from biting your nails.

I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you choose to move forward, as well as what works for you. Love your nails.

If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com.

Mischo Beauty Pick: The Lancer Method

My love for skincare closely follows behind my love for hair, which you all already know (*smile*). So an offer to try The Lancer Method, a 3-step skincare program consisting of LANCERx products for your specific skin type, was of definite interest to me! Created by celebrity dermatologist Dr. Harold Lancer, LANCERx products are the answer for those seeking a simple skincare regimen delivering medical grade improvements.

I've been using the regimen (Extremely Pure Cleanser, Natural Sea Mineral Polish & Repair AM/PM Nourishing Treatment) for a few weeks now and I'm beyond pleased with the results. The "hero product" of this program has to be the Natural Sea Mineral Polish! It's formulated with magnesium oxide crystals and feels like a microdermabrasion treatment. After application it warms on your skin. And after rinsing, it leaves your skin silky smooth. I use it with caution (and definitely not daily), only because my skin is easily sensitized. There's no doubt that this is a spa grade treatment and I love it!

Would love to hear your thoughts on LANCERx. Have you tried the products? Would you? Please share!

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

Mischo Beauty Pick: ANEW Clinical Derma-Full X3 Facial Filling Serum

You might remember my Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101 post, where I discussed what exactly serums were and how you might benefit from them. And just to refresh your memory, serums are highly concentrated treatments of active ingredients used to penetrate and treat various skin conditions such as dehydration, stress, environmental damage, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation issues or loss of elasticity.

Well AVON recently introduced their ANEW Clinical Derma-Full X3 Facial Filling Serum, which is an injectable-grade topical treatment. Hyaluronic Acid is a key ingredient used to fill fine lines and wrinkles, so what this means for you is: 1) it's the strength used in Dermatologist's offices, so similar results should apply; 2) it's a topical treatment, so there's no worry about pain- no needles!; and 3) it costs a fraction of what you'd normally pay for a treatment at a Dermatologist's office.

The proposed benefits, plus the price ($54), make this totally worth a try!

Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101

This post is in response to a few question s from fellow beauty blogger, Yummy 411. She wanted to know where a peel fits in with regards to exfoliation, and if a peel is too harsh on your skin, if you exfoliate regularly.

Well, the process of removing the excess accumulation of dead skin cells from the outer most layer of skin (epidermis) is referred to as superficial peeling or exfoliation. It can be accomplished mechanically (microdermabrasion), manually (scrubs), or chemically- which is the category that includes "peels".

Peels used by estheticians are designed to penetrate only the epidermis, and are noninvasive/nonaggressive. "Deeper Peels", which are those used by physicians (dermatologists), penetrate deeper into the skin (dermal layer (living tissue) which sits below the epidermis) and may use chemicals such as glycolic acid (50% or more).

So, now that we know that peels are a form of chemical exfoliation, here are a few of the many benefits:

1. Improves skin texture, hydration & moisture retention
2. Increases the rate of cell turnover
3. Improves elastin & collagen production
4. Reduces fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation issues
5. May control skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation & eczema

So you're probably wondering if you're a candidate for a peel? Well, in my professional opinion, if you could benefit from any of those listed above, then you're definitely a candidate for a peel administered by an esthetician. If exfoliation is a normal part of your skincare regimen, then a professional peel treatment, no more than once a month, should be sufficient.

Now, are you a candidate for a "deeper peel"? Possibly. After a thorough consultation/skin analysis, a dermatologist would best advise you. Please feel free to email me with any questions! Love your skin.

Mischo Beauty Pick: Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin

I've fallen in love with Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin's Body Lotion and Body Butter. I started testing them out about a month ago and I'm pleased with the results. Both are formulated with a blend of olive fruit extract and natural essential oils of orange, bergamot, mandarin and rosewood- which all work to brighten and purify the skin. What sets them apart from other moisturizers is the fact that they're formulated to even skintone and they're developed by a dermatologist!

The body butter is pictured above on the left side of my hand and the body lotion is on the right.
The texture of the body butter is rich and creamy and my preference was to use it immediately after a bath, while my skin was still moist and my pores were still open, to ensure maximum absorption. Oh, and my feet loved it too!
I used the body lotion during the day, taking it with me to use as a handcream throughout the day. It's texture is lighter than the body butter, but both absorb quickly and are non-greasy- which I love!
Rx for Brown Skin is the first dermatologist-created skincare line created for women of color (Black, Latina, Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern) by Dr. Susan Taylor. She's also written a book called "Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin" which covers beauty basics, top skin-of-color concerns and beauty for life. For those of you who've emailed me with regards to hyperpigmentation and other skincare issues, this is a good reference for you- buy it! She addresses skin pigmentation, scars, acne and other issues.
The product line also includes a Virtual Peel which is a gentle chemical exfoliant. I plan to test it this weekend and include my results in my "Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101" post next Monday.
The Bright and Even Exfoliating Kit was developed for those of you who have issues with hyperpigmentation or dull and uneven skintones. I love it because it's a complete regimen- cleanser, toner, moisturizer and advanced botanical brightener- yay! No guessing or over-thinking required - this is a perfect start for those of you who are making resolutions to take better care of your skin. As I've said before- healthy skin is beautiful skin!

Will you consider this line for your skincare needs?

Mischo Beauty School: Facial Masks 101

A great mask can do wonders for the skin. Masks are designed as an intensive treatment for different skin problems. Generally, there are two types of masks: setting masks and nonsetting masks. Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base, harden and dry and absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. Nonsetting masks are for dry or sensitive skin and are primarily moisturizing and soothing. Benefits of masks include the following:

1. Tighten and tone the skin
2. Draw impurities out of the pores
3. Clear up blemishes
4. Hydrate
5. Nourish
6. Calm and soothe
7. Rejuvenate the skin

Love your skin.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions.

Mischo Beauty School: Hair Relaxers & Thinning/Breakage 101

I’ve received many questions on the use of hair relaxers resulting in thinning hair and hair breakage, so I’ve decided to address the issue. Damage from relaxers may result from a number of reasons. At any rate, the problem could be due to one of the following:

1. The "strength" of the relaxer might be stronger than that needed for your particular hair texture. Relaxers come in "mild, regular or super" strengths.

2. Your stylist may not be applying the relaxer properly. It should ONLY be applied to the NEW hair growth, every 6-8 weeks. No overlapping onto previously relaxed hair!

3. Thermal styling may be an issue. Are you frequently using a curling iron, flat iron or blow-dryer? If so, that will definitely contribute to thinning/breakage.

4. Do you color your hair? If you use permanent haircolor, the application should be at least two weeks after relaxing or you will experience thinning/breakage. You should only be using a mild relaxer.

If you're thinning near the scalp, then it's probably from improper application or overlapping of the relaxer onto the previously relaxed hair. If you're thinning along the length of the hair, then it's probably due to excessive heat from a curling/flat iron, blow-drying or constant chemical overprocessing.

Hopefully your stylist will identify the problem and offer you a new haircare regimen. If you feel that your problem is different from those listed above, I'd recommend you visit a Dermatologist.

Love your hair.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!