TOP 5 BENEFITS OF FACIAL MISTS

Traditional facial mists contain only mineral water coming from exotic sites. The water simply cools the skin but when it evaporates, the skin is drier than ever. The market wanted better products. New types of mists came out, with improved moisturizing property from natural extracts and oils, as well as advanced functional anti-aging, antioxidant, and whitening ingredients. These facial mists can provide more benefits, and here are the top five:

1. INSTANT COOLNESS 

Your skin also gets thirsty and dehydrated especially during summer when it's scorching hot. Facial mist can cool, refresh, and hydrate your skin. It should be your number two must-have skin care product for summer. Number one is of course a broad spectrum sun protection, like DERMAX UV Milk or UV Active Sunscreen.

2. SKIN CARE ON THE GO

Anytime, anywhere, you get to cleanse your face and moisturize it simultaneously in just a spritz. Quick and hassle-free. 

3. LOCKS IN MOISTURE

Always mist with every layer of product you put on your skin (moisturizer - mist - primer - mist - makeup - mist, and so on). This way, it preps your skin by locking in moisture to absorb all the serums and moisturizers that you will apply.

4. PARTNER FOR YOUR MAKEUP

Aside from using facial mist before and after applying your make-up, regular spritzing is recommended especially when you need to have make-up all day.  Instead of continuous retouching and adding more layers of makeup on your face, misting before touch up softens your look. This prevents you from having a heavy look and a cake face.

5. DE-STRESSES YOU AT WORK

Facial mists can take you from looking stressed to rejuvenated in seconds. It's a spray of instant beauty. Facial mists with added aromatherapy helps with calming, soothing, revitalizing, and uplifting.

BLUSHING BEAUTY FACIAL MISTS

Launched just in time for summer is the Blushing Beauty Facial Mists! What’s unique about these next generation facial mists is that they are engineered with advanced ingredients to give you  International formulations. Blushing Beauty Facial Mists not only cool and moisturize, but they also brighten and even out your skin. As an added bonus, they are infused with your favorite scents for aromatherapy.

Blushing Beauty Facial Mists’ three key benefits:

1. COOLING - Instantly cools, refreshes, and gives you a dewy glow.

2. MOISTURIZING - Moisturizes, hydrates, and firms skin through low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid and revitalizing Bamboo Water.

3. BRIGHTENING - Brightens and evens out skin tone through Schnewhite extract from mushroom.

It comes in four variants that vary depending on your preferred scent:

1. Warm and fresh aroma of Chamomile for a soothing after-feel.

2. Sweet and floral aroma of Lavender for a calming after-feel.

3. Refreshing aroma of Green Clover that revives and revitalizes you.

4. Immensely rich Rose aroma that boosts your mood and uplifts your senses.

Blushing Beauty Facial Mists are exclusively available in all Blushing Beauty and SkinStation branches nationwide. So go ahead, spritz anytime, anywhere for an instant dewy, moisturized, and glowing skin! 

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This article was published in The Manila Bulletin, Lifestyle Section on May 10, 2016. The author is Fred C. Reyes, a multi-awarded chemist, and the CEO of SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center, and Blushing Beauty, the fastest growing skin clinic chain in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

BB Cream: Its Origin, Metamorphosis, and Latest Innovation

Most people see BB cream as an original Korean skin care innovation. The fact is, BB cream was first developed by a German dermatologist. Dr. Christine Schrammek came out with BB cream as a post treatment care for her patients. She formulated this product to provide coverage and protect her patients' skin after facial peels, surgery, and laser treatments.

From its medical grade origin, the BB cream concept was repositioned by South Korean cosmetic companies as an all-in-one daily facial beauty product. It became a sensation and captured up to 13% of the cosmetics market in South Korea. It then spread throughout Asia, and became a hit in the Western market in 2011.

BB cream stands for Blemish Balm. It is marketed as a multi-tasker, time-saver facial product. On average, Korean women go through seven or more different skin care steps. Products used are: cleanser, toner, skin treatment, moisturizer, sunscreen, primer, concealer, and foundation.

Because of BB cream's versatility, it is meant to shorten this tedious regimen. Ideally, BB cream is the only facial product that you'll ever need after cleansing.

Studies show that four out of five people who have tried BB cream were satisfied and that they will buy the product again. In the Asian market, skin whitening is an essential element in any BB cream formula.

AQUAWHITE BB CREAM

With the numerous BB creams you see in stores offering practically the same benefits, what else is new in this category?

Recently launched in SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center, and Blushing Beauty branches is the AquaWhite BB Cream. It is the FIRST BB cream with the innovative hydrating water-burst formula. Water-burst or water-bomb, this concept has been used by DERMAX in its line of UV sunscreen products. For the first time, this novel technology is successfully applied in a BB cream formulation. It gives you the feeling of coolness and freshness as it hydrates the skin.

AquaWhite BB Cream has three key benefits: whitening, moisturizing, and coverage. It comes in natural beige color that blends well with any skin tone. It is ideal for all skin types, especially for sensitive skin. It is best for those who want a natural "no makeup" look, but want protection and cover up for some imperfections.

For best results, always avoid unnecessary sun exposure. It is important to use as a base either DERMAX UV Milk or UV Active, both high performance broad spectrum sunscreens, prior to application of AquaWhite BB cream.

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This article will be published in The Manila Bulletin, Lifestyle Section on April 12, 2016. The author is Fred C. Reyes, a multi-awarded chemist, and the CEO of SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center, and Blushing Beauty, the fastest growing skin clinic chain in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

NEW Powder-to-Serum VITAMIN C

The challenge with vitamin C is that it is unstable for topical application. When exposed to heat, air, or light, it breaks down quickly and it becomes ineffective. DERMAX Professional recently developed a unique and innovative product, a powder-to-serum vitamin C to overcome this concern.The new concept DERMAX VITAMIN C POWDER SERUM works like magic as the powder transforms into concentrated serum upon application.

The powder-changing serum formula has highly potent Ethyl ascorbic acid encapsulated in a hydrogenated lecithin powder base. This gives the novel vitamin C product concept optimal stability and long-term effectiveness. Hydrogenated lecithin also acts as a skin conditioning agent.

DERMAX Vitamin C Powder Serum provides 6 key benefits to your skin:

ANTI-AGING

A research study shows that those who used topical vitamin C experienced significant reduction in fine lines and wrinkles after 12 weeks. Another study confirms the beneficial effects of vitamin C in 60% of patients treated.Topical vitamin C application can stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that is responsible for the skin’s plumpness and elasticity.

WHITENING

Topical vitamin C acts as a natural bleaching agent and lightens the skin. It improves skin texture and tone, reduces brown spots, and corrects pigmentation problems.

ANTIOXIDANT

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects skin against toxic chemicals, pollutants, and free radicals, which are harmful molecules that damage collagen and cause premature skin aging.

ANTI-ACNE

Topical vitamin C has anti-inflammatory benefits that helps in skin conditions like acne vulgaris and rosacea. Vitamin C also promotes wound healing and prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

SUN PROTECTION

Research suggests that vitamin C can reduce sunburned skin cells caused by UVA and UVB rays and minimize the consequences of long-term sun exposure. While vitamin C can protect and repair sun damage, it is still recommended to use daily a broad spectrum sunscreen like DERMAX UV Milk Anti-Aging Sunscreen or UV Active Hydrating Water-Burst Sunscreen.

SENSITIVE SKIN PROTECTION

Recent studies show that vitamin C can increase the thickness of the skin, thus increasing skin barrier function, making skin less sensitive.

Experience the innovative magical transformation of DERMAX Vitamin C Powder Serum. For best results, apply with DERMAX Hyal-C Serum. DERMAX Professional products are exclusively available in all SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center, and Blushing Beauty branches nationwide.

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This article will be published in The Manila Bulletin, Lifestyle Section on March 29, 2016. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center, and Blushing Beauty, the fastest growing skin clinic chain in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

Top 8 Causes of Thinning Hair

Statistics show that 85% of men will experience thinning hair and hair loss by the time they are 50.  For women, most will experience it in their 40s. Know the causes of thinning hair and learn how to deal with it.

Top Causes of Thinning Hair

1. Genetics

Genetic predisposition is the most common cause of hair loss. Medically termed as Male Pattern Baldness (MPB), this accounts for more than 95% of hair loss in men. A hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causes hair follicles to shrink, which prevents hair from growing. As its counterpart, Female Pattern Baldness (FPB) is the general thinning over the entire scalp, predominantly at the crown.

2. Aging

As you age, so does your hair growth cycle. It’s inevitable that the hair follicles deteriorate and cause thinning hair.

3. Severe stress

Stress produces increased levels of testosterone, which converts to DHT and interrupts the hair growth cycle.

4. Poor nutrition

This includes Vitamin D, iron, and protein deficiency, and too much Vitamin A.

5. Illnesses

This includes anemia, thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, infection, inflammatory skin conditions, and other skin disorders.

6. Medications

Some types of drugs especially with high dosage can interfere with the normal cycle of hair growth.

7. Hormonal imbalance

This includes extreme hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum depression, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and menopause.

8. Self-Inflicted

This includes excessive styling, applying too much chemicals in your hair, using hot combs, and getting overly tight hairstyles.

Dealing with Thinning Hair

DERMAX Professional recently launched DERMAX PHYTE Thinning Hair Therapy, a new and advanced plant-based serum formula specially developed to target and prevent thinning hair.

It is formulated with encapsulated procyanidin oligomers from apples that have been clinically shown to target thinning hair. Clinical study shows that hair thickness increased by 80%. And because procyanidin oligomers are natural and plant-based, it didn't have any side effects.

DERMAX PHYTE Thinning Hair Therapy is enhanced with Shikakai water, Jeju aloe, and Acacia extract to help rejuvenate scalp.

Shikakai is known as "hair fruit" that strengthens hair roots by enhancing hair's binding properties. Shikakai water and Acacia extracts are high in vitamins A, C, K, and D, along with other micronutrients and antioxidants. Jeju Aloe has been specially imported from Jeju island. Aloe extract contains enzymes that eradicate dead skin cells on the scalp that could be clogging the hair follicles. It reduces redness and inflammation and it retains water and moisture in the scalp.

DERMAX PHYTE can be most effective in cases caused by hormonal imbalance, aging, or temporary causes. For genetic predispositions, it can only lessen or delay thinning hair. Generally, improvement can be seen after the new hair growth cycle (3 to 6 weeks). Results may vary, however, depending on your hair and scalp condition so it is best to consult with a doctor for personal assessment. 

*NEW* DERMAX PHYTE Thinning Hair Therapy is
exclusively available in all SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center,
and Blushing Beauty branches nationwide. P999 only.

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This article was published in The Manila Bulletin, Lifestyle Section, page C-3 on February 9, 2016. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center, and Blushing Beauty, the fastest growing skin clinic chain in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

PEPTIDES: NEW ANTI-AGING BREAKTHROUGH

WebMD cited peptides as the “Top 4 Anti-Aging Breakthrough”. Peptides are also claimed as one of the most promising discoveries over the last few years.

Defining Peptides

Let's start with amino acids. Amino acids are the skin’s building blocks and they form into long and short chains. Generally, long chains are those with more than 50 amino acids. The long chains become proteins. The structural protein that makes up 75% of the skin is collagen, which is responsible for the skin's thickness and elasticity. More collagen means more youthful glow. Less collagen means sagging skin and wrinkles.

The shorter chains are called peptides. Since peptides are smaller and shorter, they can be applied topically and penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. Peptides help with skin regeneration and rejuvenation by acting as collagen booster. They have Botox-like benefit without the undesirable side effects. Moreover, they also reduce skin pigmentation.

Types of Peptides and Their Benefits

Signal Peptides

These collagen-stimulating peptides are the most popular type. They stimulate skin fibroblasts to produce more collagen, elastin, and other dermal proteins. The more these structural proteins are boosted, the more supple the skin become.

Neuropeptides

These are the most innovative type of peptides that work similar to Botox minus the injection. They reduce wrinkles by approximately 30% by blocking transmission of signal from nerves to facial muscles. Then, they relax the facial muscles and keep it from forming wrinkles.

Carrier/ Penetrating/ Copper Peptides

Copper is an effective agent in skin's natural healing. It has been used for many years to treat chronic wounds. By delivering trace elements like magnesium and copper to the skin, Carrier Peptides help in skin regeneration by reducing inflammation and skin damage.

Enzyme Inhibitor Peptides

Due to aging, free radicals, and harmful UV ray exposure from the sun, collagen breaks down in the skin, which consequently leads to wrinkles. Enzyme Inhibitor Peptides reduce the breakdown of collagen by inhibiting the activity of protein-degrading enzymes. They also reduce skin pigmentation.

DERMAX Professional now offers a proprietary blend of advanced peptide serum in two variants: anti-wrinkle and whitening. Both variants come in novel airless injection design packaging, providing instant porcelain skin finish with long-term benefits. It is ideal to use for those picture-taking opportunities.

DERMAX Advanced Peptide Whitening Serum gives intensive lightening performance with a proprietary blend of advanced peptide complex, plus whitening and antioxidant ingredients to help even out skin tone and enhance skin protection.

DERMAX Advanced Peptide Anti-Wrinkle Serum contains advanced peptide complex and protective ingredients to help regain skin elasticity and boost collagen production.

For best results, always avoid unnecessary sun exposure. It is important to use DERMAX UV Milk or UV Active, both high performance broad spectrum sunscreens, once the peptide serums have been absorbed by your skin.

*NEW* DERMAX Advanced Peptide Whitening Serum and Anti-Wrinkle Serum are exclusively available in SkinStation and DERMAX Laser Center branches nationwide.

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This article was published in The Manila Bulletin, Lifestyle Section, page C-3 on January 19, 2016. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center, and Blushing Beauty, the fastest growing skin clinic chain in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

HOW DOES RETINOL WORK?

Retinol stands out as one the best ingredients for skin care, providing multiple benefits. Initial research shows it helps reduce acne breakouts by unclogging pores. Succeeding studies establish the role of retinol in boosting collagen production, reducing wrinkles, lightening skin discolorations, and more. Sounds like a miracle ingredient? Let’s find out how retinol actually works on skin.

Retinol comes from the vitamin A family. It is the nonprescription type of retinoic acid, which is sometimes called tretinoin. Once retinol penetrates the skin, it is slowly converted to retinoic acid. The slow conversion to retinoic acid makes incidence of skin irritation much less. Retinoic acid is known to exfoliate the dead top skin layer thus quickening skin renewal. It helps prevents collagen from breaking down and thickens the deeper layer of the skin making the skin firmer. It also improves skin tone by optimizing cell turnover and slowing down the production of the dark melanin pigment.

Prescription grade retinoic acid creams are very potent, showing results in merely 6 to 8 weeks. However, they also pose higher risk for irritation and other side effects. On the other hand, nonprescription retinol is far less aggressive but so much gentler on the skin so side effects are minimal to none at all. While it may take longer to achieve results, it is less irritating than the prescription formula. Generally, it takes about 3 to 6 months of daily use to get the best results.

Start adding retinol to your night care routine in your 30s. By 40s and 50s, retinol is a definite must in your skin care regimen. But regardless of age, retinol is still useful for various skin problems, including acne.

Apply DERMAX Retinol-C every night
and DERMAX UV Milk on mornings.
DERMAX Retinol-C Instant Effect
is ideal for photo opportunities.

Retinol works better when paired with vitamin C. It defends skin against free radicals and increases its anti-aging benefits. DERMAX Retinol-C Deep Wrinkle Moisturizing Therapy combines the power of Retinol and vitamin C to significantly reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Having reunions and get-together parties? Grab the instant effect version of this product for “look, no wrinkle” picture-perfect results.

It is important to note that retinol is highly reactive and can lose its potency if not formulated properly. DERMAX Retinol-C uses time-released encapsulation technology to ensure long-term stability and efficacy. Retinol is released only upon application, triggered by the skin’s acidic pH.

Retinol is an exfoliant, so it is important to avoid unnecessary sun exposure. Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen on mornings, such as DERMAX UV Milk Sunscreen Anti-Aging Sunscreen with SPF50+ PA+++. 

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This article will be published in The Manila Bulletin, Main Section on August 25, 2015. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of SkinStation, DERMAX Laser Center, and Blushing Beauty, the fastest growing skin clinic chain in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

SAGGING SKIN SOLUTIONS

As you age, so does your skin. Deep within the layers of your skin are support structures made up of collagen and elastin fibers. These are proteins that keep your skin tighter and firmer. Over time, the skin’s support structure breaks down. This eventually leads to sagging skin.

In this day and age, advanced solutions are now available for sagging skin problems; listing five options below:

Ultra V-Lift
Korea’s original face lifting procedure developed by Dr. Kwon Han Jin is one of the most effective nonsurgical options to lift sagging skin and achieve the highly desired V-shaped face. Ultra fine threads are inserted in specific layers under the skin to stimulate collagen production in targeted areas. Since effectiveness is technique driven, only well-trained doctors should do this. Results can last for 1 to 2 years.

ThermaFirme
This firming procedure works by delivering controlled amount of Radio Frequency (RF)
energy to the dermal layer of the skin to stimulate collagen production. Visible results
are best seen 3 months after completing a program of 10 weekly sessions.

Hyaluronic Acid
This naturally occuring ingredient in our skin will help boost collagen production provided it is made small enough to penetrate the dermal layer. DERMAX offers Hyal-C, the combination of Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C, known for its antioxidant and anti-aging benefits. Hyal-C has instant firming and long-term anti-aging benefits, and is a popular option for infusion during facial procedures.

Licorice Extract
Licorice extract is not only excellent for skin discolorations. New research shows that licorice extract in skin care products produces the same positive effects as that of facial exercises. According to the study, facial exercises relax and contract facial muscles. In turn, it stimulates fibroblasts to prevent sagging. Licorice Extract mimics this effect and does the same to our skin. The entire DERMAX NanoWhite line contains Licorice Extract as an active ingredient with added nano-encapsulation technology for improved absorption and stability.

Organic Silica & DMAE
Organic Silica improves sagging skin by restoring strength, flexibility, and elasticity to the collagen and connective tissues. Similarly, DMAE works by protecting the elastin and collagen cross-links. We offer MesoFirm Facial infused with MesoMed serum, a potent blend of Organic Silica & DMAE Solution.

Conclusion
Always remember, prevention is better than cure. The number one cause of aging and
sagging skin is the sun’s harmful UV rays. You should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen
every day. DERMAX UV Milk Anti-Aging Sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA+++ provides intensive defense against UVA/UVB rays.

All solutions mentioned are available at SkinStation and DERMAX Laser Center. Consult with our doctors to know the best treatment option for you.

Trust only the original -
Ultra V-Lift by Dr. Kwon Han Jin
available at SkinStation and DERMAX Laser Center branches nationwide.

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This article will be published in The Manila Bulletin, Main Section on August 25, 2015. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of SkinStation and DERMAX Laser Center, two leading skin clinic chains in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).