Can a Drink Really Make Skin Look Younger?

By feeding skin from the inside out – with beauty-boosting ingredients that are absorbed in the gut and delivered via the blood to the skin's dermis – there should be a bigger and longer-lasting effect on appearance than can be achieved by smothering creams and lotions on the dead outer layer.  Makes sense right? “Creams can hydrate those dead cells and make it superficially look a bit more healthy than it really is,” says Martin Godfrey, head of R&D at Minerva Research Labs.  “But it’s always going to be a temporary effect because it isn’t able to get to the guts of where living cells are being produced.”

Introducing M'lis Antioxidant Essentials containing natural berry flavors for a better tasting product.  Each serving of Daily Antioxidant Essentials contains 20 superfoods, and is packed with the essential vitamins, enzymes, antioxidants, and phytonutrients in a great tasting, natural berry flavor on-the-go.

A month supply of looking younger and feeling better is just $30. You can find it here.

And for you health nuts -  It has 20+ Superfoods:

Chlorella, Spirulina, Acaii Berry, Pomegranate Pulp Juice, Aloe Vera Juice, Mangosteen Fruit, Red Raspberry Fruit, Goji Berry Fruit (Wolfberry), Golden Kiwi, Banana Juice, Cranberry Juice, Blueberry Juice, Strawberry Seed Extract, Red Beet Root, Grape Skins, Grape Seed Extract, Carrot, Coconut Juice (Coconut Water), Grape Juice, Apple Juice, Peach Juice, Orange Juice Pulp, L-Arginine, L-Citrulline, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Beta Carotene

January Medicine Cabinet Clean-out!

Which beauty products are in your medicine cabinet?

Between last year's Oil of Olay face cream and the tube of Preparation H your mom once told you was good for puffy eyes, sits a jar of radiant skin waiting to be unveiled.

Why not get a fresh start for the new year? That over-the-counter skincare stuff you’re using, only treats the dead layer of skin on the surface.. Instead, think cosmeceutical!  Our products are formulated to penetrate deep into the dermis layer where collagen, elastin, and pigmentation lay.

Here’s our top 10 anti-aging products…

1. Retinol 
Why: Stimulates collagen production, which targets fine lines and can result in a tighter, younger-looking complexion.
When: At night only!! Recommended  2-3 times per week, but that all depends on your skin type and age.
My Fav: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5% or 1.0%

2. Daily Antioxidant
Why: Increases collagen synthesis and reduces skin damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C is an essential anti-oxidant which helps create healthy, youthful, glowing skin.
When: Every Morning.. Religiously! And anytime my skin looks dull or ashy.
My Fav: Skinceuticals CE Ferulic

3. AHA or BHA Cleanser
Why: AHA (glycolic/lactic acid) & BHA (salicylic acid) are both great exfoliants and reveal smoother skin!
When: I like to use it at night… Gets my skin squeaky clean and prepped for my night cream.
My Fav: Skin Medica Foaming Cleanser or Skinceuticals Simply Clean

4. Gentle Cleanser
Why: Because your skin needs a break from acids, sulfates, and parabens to heal and for optimal skin health.
When: I use mine in the morning and after peels, lasers, Ulthera or any intense treatment done to my face.
My Fav: Skinceuticals Gentle Cleanser or Skin Medica Sensitive Cleanser.

5. Tinted Sunscreen 
Why: Do I have to explain this one? Surprisingly, so many of us DO NOT use this daily. People.. This is your fountain of youth! A proper sunscreen helps protect your skin from sunburn, early aging, and skin cancer. Need I say more…
When: Every day! (even if it’s cloudy). Don’t forget to reapply every 2 hours if out in the sun. According to American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen needs to be at least SPF 30, UVA and UVB protectant, and water resistant.
My Fav: Skinceuticals tinted Physical Fusion (best seller!)

6. Self-Tanner
Why: Perfect for a healthy glow without the damaging effects of UV rays.
When: I like to apply mine once a week at night.. I love waking up to a glowing face and body.
My Fav: Jane Iredale Tantasia

7. A Powerful yet Gentle Night Cream
Why: Your skin needs essential peptides, vitamins and nutrients to look its best and prevent free radical damage.
When: Every night.
My Fav: Skinceutical AGE Interrupter 

8. AGE Eye Cream 
Why: Gets rid of fine lines, dark circles and stimulates collagen production
When: Morning & night.
My Fav: Skinceuticals AGE Eye

9. Lip Exfoliant & Moisturizer
Why: Why not? Your lips need a little loving hydration too! My fav also gives an added plumpness too… What girl doesn’t want that?
When: All day…every day!
My Fav: Jane Iredale Sugar & Butter

10. Eyelash Growth Enhancer 
Why: As we get older, lashes become more sparse and lose length. Lash enhancers contain ingredients that promote length and fullness.
When: Apply once a day morning or night… Tip: If redness or irritation occurs, apply only in the morning.
My Fav:  Latisse 

Take charge of your beauty cabinet, get rid all the junk and stock up on the essentials needed for healthy, glowing skin…  I promise you WILL love your skin again!

Don't forget, Chic rewards members save 15% on skincare products and cosmetics!

What's So Special About Serum?

What’s the difference between a serum and a cream? Why are they so expensive? And most importantly, have you considered trying one? Here are some reasons why you might want to consider making a worthy investment:

You have a skin problem / issue / imperfection... (but don't we all?!)
Serums tend to be more effective than plain old-school moisturizers due to the method of delivery: Serums are more concentrated so they’re able to penetrate more deeply than creams.  Because of this, these products are ideal for troubleshooting specific problems such as redness, acne and hyperpigmentation.

You have oily skin.
Oily skin types tend to avoid rich, heavy oil-based creams since they can clog pores and bring on breakouts. But skimping on a moisturizer means losing out on potential anti-aging benefits. Many people do not understand that drying out your skin can actually result in increased oil production. Luckily, most serums are lightweight enough to slather on without having to be concerned with overly oily skin. Bonus: Formulas that contain vitamin C and antioxidants leave skin looking hydrated and healthy—not sweaty. Top off with an oil-free sunscreen like my personal favorite -- SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion Tinted Sunscreen in SPF 50 ($34).

You have dry skin days.
Winter is notorious for causing your skin to turn dry and flaky—and even the creamiest, richest moisturizer isn’t always enough. Many serums are formulated to act as boosters to heavier creams by providing a crucial layer of vitamins and antioxidants that the cream effectively “seals” into skin. Think of a serum as a strong foundation and cream as a protective barrier.

We carry some amazing serums like SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic.  We’d love to explain their benefits to you and help you decide which one suits your needs best. Drop by to chat with us or learn more about our products here.

Amber K.
Director

3 Ways To Look Your Best Every Day

Looking your best shouldn’t be reserved for special occasions.  If you can commit to these three tips on looking your best every day, you’ll eliminate the chaos of getting prepared for big moments like weddings, parties, and high school reunions.

1.     Maintain a Healthy Weight:
We all know this is easier said than done, but the significance of maintaining a health weight cannot be overstated.  Not only does it help your appearance—looking healthy means looking young—but it is also one of the best ways to stay healthy, which as we all know helps us feel great on a day to day basis. We offer a range of weightloss services, such as: medical weightloss, nutritional weightloss, laser body sculpting with Smartlipo Triplex, and more.

2.     Take Care of Your Skin:
Despite our best efforts, signs of aging will begin to show in our skin.  Botox treatments and other cosmetic facial treatments reduce the visibility of age, but routine skin care regimens are important to maintaining smooth, radiant skin.  Starting at a young age is the best way to maintain young, smooth skin, and many people don’t begin a skin care regimen until they are in their 30s or later.  In addition to washing regularly, moisturizing and using proper skincare products ensure that your skin retains moisture. If you’re unsure of what to use, you can always schedule a complementary med spa consultation and have a personalized session with an Esthetician.

3.     Know Your Body Type:
Dressing well is a great way to feel good about yourself, but whether or not you’re clothing is flattering can be difficult to determine.  Learning your body type will help you choose the most flattering clothing for your frame, height, and weight.  Each body type looks best in particular kinds of jeans, swimsuits, and even jackets; knowing your own body will help guide you to the right styles of clothing when you shop.

Here at Robert Kratschmer MD and Chic Esthetiq Med Spa, we offer many services to assist you in looking your best.  We offer Botox treatment, laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, Smartlipo Triplex, weightloss, and more. 

Sip Your Way to More Luminous Skin

Sip Your Way to More Luminous Skin

October 8, 2012 at 11:00 PM

Smoothies offer great versatility and a healthy treat any time of the day. You can easily use fruits and vegetables that are in season. A single glass can deliver antioxidants, protein, fiber, vitamins, and much more. This refreshing smoothie is packed with nutrition that’s good for your skin, yet easy to make!

Prep: 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Level: Easy!
Calories: 191 per serving

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups of Greek or fat-free natural plain yogurt
• 1 pint of blueberries
• 2 ripe bananas
• ½ cup of “no pulp” 100% natural orange juice
• ½ lemon, squeezed (for tartness, if desired)

Directions
Place all ingredients in a blender. Liquefy and then add more orange juice if the consistency is too thick for you. Enjoy!

A smart start with lasting benefits
Antioxidants, which are found in many fruits, have been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and create a more youthful-looking complexion. Antioxidants can help fight free radicals—tiny, unstable molecules that have been shown to cause damage at the cellular level—and when applied topically, antioxidants can help reduce the signs of skin damage caused by the sun and other environmental stressors. Did you know that blueberries rank third as a natural source of antioxidants after prunes and raisins? You may notice an energy boost from such a nutritious start to your day and find yourself exercising more! In this recipe, yogurt provides protein, calcium, and good bacteria to aid digestion. Bananas are packed with potassium and slow-release sugar to sustain you throughout the day. Blueberries are also full of fiber, so you may notice that you feel full sooner, and you’ll eat less. And finally, orange juice is a popular source of Vitamin C. Add more or less OJ, depending on how thick you want your smoothie. Here’s to Obagi Skin Health!

 

References: 1. Bouchez C. Want healthy skin? Feed it well. WedMD Web site.
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/features/want-healthy-…. Accessed August 14, 2012.
2. Prior R.L. Antioxidant capacity and health benefits of fruits and vegetables. US Highbush Blueberry Council Web site.
http://www.blueberry.org/antioxidants.htm. Accessed August 15, 2012.

Article courtesy of Obagi Medical Products.