Chemical peels are treatments that should always be done by a trained professional like a dermatologist or aesthetician. In some states, the use of high-strength professional chemical peels is limited to dermatologists only or someone under their supervision. Peel solutions with higher concentrations of active ingredients are often only available with a prescription. Performing a chemical peel at home with a solution obtained online can lead to adverse reactions in…

Microneedling is an effective procedure for improving the complexion. On realself.com, the popular website dedicated to patients discussing aesthetic treatments, microneedling has a high 92% approval rating among patients. It continues to be a popular skin rejuvenation procedure for its effectiveness and relative affordability compared to laser resurfacing. Because it is a moderately invasive treatment that requires puncturing the skin, a topical anesthetic is usually applied before the procedure. The…

There are numerous acne creams, gels, lotions, scrubs, and more that are available as over-the-counter products at the local drugstore. While some of these products can be essential parts of a regular skincare routine, many individuals continue to suffer with acne even after consistently using them. When an acne sufferer is looking for alternative treatments from a skincare professional, chemical peels are often the first treatment offered. Chemical peels have…

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the body that is most abundant in the skin. When used in anti-aging products it has two main applications: as an injectable facial filler to reduce wrinkles and provide fuller lips and as a topical anti-aging product applied to the face. Applied topically it is an effective humectant because it is able to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in…

Is There a Melasma Cure? Melasma is a skin condition that results in patches of brown and gray hyperpigmentation on the face and sometimes other parts of the body. The condition is common in women, especially those who are pregnant, with only about 10% of individuals with melasma being men. While the condition has no cure, there are both preventative measures that can reduce the risk of flare-ups and effective…

One of the most common ingredients found in skin lightening creams is hydroquinone. This ingredient is frequently used by dermatologists to treat a variety of skin conditions. How Does Hydroquinone Work? Hydroquinone slows melanin production in areas where pigmentation has become darker than a person’s normal skin tone. It does this by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is needed to make melanin. The decrease in melanin from the medication lightens…

Chemical peels are one of the most common treatments performed by dermatologists and aestheticians. They can provide excellent results in a short time frame and are highly customizable. Peels are available with different ingredients based on an individual’s skin concerns and skin type. They can be made stronger or weaker depending on the severity of the skin problem and the patient’s tolerance level. Dermatologists are also able to have chemical…

As cosmetic laser treatments and injectables such as Botox and fillers have become more popular so has the use of topical anesthesia by dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and other doctors. Topical numbing creams like BLT cream make the experience of having an injectable or laser procedure more comfortable. When the patient finds that getting their injection or laser treatment is easy and painless, they are more likely to come back to…