Ask the Expert: Skin Care 101

SEPTEMBER

by: Jan Dupuy, RN Nurse Specialist in Cosmetic Skin Care
Owner of the Biltmore Skin Care Center

Q.What is a free radical?
A. A free radical is a breakdown within the cellular structure caused by irritants like the sun, pollution and smoking. Free radicals lessen the cells defensive mechanisms. Overexposure to them, can lead to premature aging and illness.

Since prevention is the key, it is advised that you consume and apply antioxidants. Antioxidants like vitamins, A,C and E can be found in veggies and fruits and in some topical creams and lotions designed to protect your skin from the aging process of free radicals. A great topical cream that I highly recommend is Prevage MD. Don’t confuse this with the plain Prevage sold in department stores. Prevage MD is twice as strong! If you can’t use Prevage MD, (there is a small population that is allergic) I recommend a well compounded, medical grade formula of vitamin C/E to be applied daily along with your sunscreen. Combine these with a healthier diet and you’ll see younger skin from the inside, out.

Q.Why is exfoliating so important to the skin?
A. Shedding old skin cells makes room for new ones. Old cells can also be carriers of pre-cancerous cells. It’s a good idea to shed them before they cause bigger health issues. Also ridding yourself of dull dead skin, will boost your appearance and glow. Regular mini-peels on a monthly basis are a breeze but quarterly treatments that are a little more aggressive and will also improve the tone and texture of the skin, reduce age spots and stimulate collagen.

Latisse is Here! The new eyelash growth product from Allergan is available. We have seen amazing results to those faithful to this new product. Users start seeing results in 10-12 weeks, so start now and be batting luscious thick lashes by June!