What is the difference between products you sell and over-the-counter products at department stores or spas?
Products sold by physicians, by law, can be higher in concentration of active ingredients. Many studies on Retinoic acids, Alpha hydroxyl acids and Vitamin C/Ascorbic acids have shown that to have the rejuvenating or collagen producing effects, these products need to be in the appropriate concentrations. Over-the-counter medications, by law, can not provide these higher necessary levels of acid and thus will not deliver the appropriate anti-aging results. In our office, these products are matched to your particular skin type and are often paired with prescription medications to provide maximal skin rejuvenating effects.I tried Retin A in the past but my skin got too irritated and dry. What should I do?
Retin A or Tretinoin is a Vitamin A or retinoic acid. Due to its clinical structure and pH, Retin A often has dryness and irritation as a side effect even if it is mixed with a moisturizer. Some patients can not tolerate it even at its lowest concentration. For patients sensitive to Retinoic acid, we frequently use Retrinol 0.1% gel which is the aldehyde or less acidic form of Vitamin A. The higher pH makes Retrinol tolerable to most skin types. Other options include AHA/glycolic products or Vitamin C products which are often more moisturizing so more compatible with all skin types.Are tanning booths safe?
The answer is No. Tanning booths do NOT provide a safer tan. Radiation is radiation whether you get it from a box or from the sun. Numerous medical studies have shown that prolonged exposure to radiation dramatically increases your risk of malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma skin cancers. I have seen many patients in their 20s getting skin cancers because of frequent tanning in tanning booths. The American Academy of Dermatology has for years warned of the dangers of tanning booths and pushed for stiffer regulation of the tanning industry – especially with children.
