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).

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CHICKEN SKIN

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CHICKEN SKIN

Are you bothered by numerous small, rough, tan or slightly red little bumps you find in your underarms, legs, and arms? They are called by many names. Medical terms used to describe this skin condition are keratosis pilaris, follicular keratosis, and lichen pilaris. It is known by the more popular name, chicken skin.

When your body produces excess amounts of skin protein keratin, it surrounds and entraps the hair follicles in your pores. It then results to hyperkeratinazation, or the formation of small bumps in the skin. These unsightly bumps contain ingrown hairs caused by the keratinized skin trapped inside the hair follicle, which prevents the hair from exiting. The hair then grows encapsulated inside the follicle. 

Waxing and plucking can lead to chicken skin condition. Some people are simply more prone to developing chicken skin because of genetics, or due to pregnancy or obesity. It affects up to 50% of adults worldwide, mostly women.

Chicken skin condition can be very itchy. Pleasurable scratching can result in skin discoloration, or post-inflammatory hypo and hyperpigmentation. Pricking and aggressive treatments may result in some scarring. Fortunately, chicken skin doesn’t have any health implication and it’s not contagious. It is neither an infection
nor caused by fungus or virus. 

Exfoliating creams and lotions are the most commonly used treatments for chicken skin, specifically those with retinol, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA). DERMAX Retinol C serum and DERMAX NanoWhite underarm cream with retinol are excellent exfoliating topical products.

Chemical peel and diamond peel are clinical procedures that can prevent entrapment of hair follicles. Diode Laser Hair Removal also permanently prevents chicken skin as its side effect. With multiple sessions of Diode Laser, eventually, there will be less to almost no more hair. With no hair regrowth, there will be no more chicken skin.

Stop scratching now. If you are bothered by chicken skin, visit any SkinStation or DERMAX Laser Center for your free consultation. Our dermatologists will give you the best treatment option for your specific condition.

DERMAX NanoWhite Underarm Cream with Retinol (for underarms) and DERMAX Retinol-C serum (for face & other body parts) are excellent exfoliants that can prevent chicken skin.

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This article appeared in The Manila Bulletin, Main Section, page 2 on June 23, 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).

NEW MESOFIRM FACIAL FOR SAGGING SKIN

NEW MESOFIRM FACIAL FOR SAGGING SKIN

SkinStation now offers MesoFirm Facial, a new firming and anti-aging treatment. The facial finale involves the application of Mesomed, a powerful rejuvenating serum designed to give you instant facelift effect. 


MesoFirm facial is an effective solution to delay signs of aging. It improves skin elasticity and gives you tighter, firmer, and more youthful skin.

Mesomed serum contains two key ingredients, widely recognized as safe and clinically proven: Organic Silica & DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol) Solution. The combination of Organic Silica & DMAE gives an all-in one facelift and anti-aging treatment.

Organic Silica helps fight free radicals and stimulates the production of elastin and collagen — proteins that help you achieve firmer skin. Organic Silica slows down the aging process by restoring strength, flexibility, and elasticity to the collagen and connective tissues.

Similarly, DMAE has been used in skin care for over two decades without unwanted side effects. It works by protecting the elastin and collagen cross-links. DMAE also provides an instant facelift effect, while defending the skin against free radicals and simultaneously infusing it with moisture.

To preserve the freshness and premium quality of the Organic Silica & DMAE, the Mesomed serum is packed in a single-use medical glass vial. The therapist breaks open the glass vial right in front of the client and massages the serum on the face until it is fully absorbed by the skin.


To achieve desired and long-lasting results, multiple sessions are required with treatment interval of two (2) weeks. Results are best seen at the end of a 4-month program. Also, bear in mind that wearing sunscreen every day is a must in any anti-aging regimen.

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This article was updated last June 25, 2015. It was originally published in The Manila Bulletin, Lifestyle Section, page C-3 on June 9, 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).

Sclerotherapy vs. Laser Vein Therapy -- Which is Better?

Sclerotherapy vs. Laser Vein Therapy -- Which is Better?

Our doctors are often asked by their patients, “Which is the better treatment option for spider and varicose veins, sclerotherapy or laser?” They have seen some clinics promoting laser vein therapy on TV, and the spider veins are shown to disappear instantly. Inspite of the hoopla on laser vein therapy, most doctors will tell you that sclerotherapy is still the better treatment option.

Sclerotherapy is more efficient in targeting and removing veins, and it is much less expensive than laser.

Sclerotherapy is a simple and well-proven clinic procedure since the 1930s. Veins are injected with saline solution, which causes the veins to collapse and fade from view. It is effective, reliable, and affordable. Through the years, Nd:YAG lasers and IPL devices have been offered as treatment alternatives. To date, none have succeeded. Sclerotherapy is still considered the best treatment option in removing unsightly spider and varicose veins.

Nevertheless, Sclerotherapy has its downside. It is quite technique-dependent. Some doctors are not as good as others. Ask for a doctor with years of experience, a sharp shooter. An indicator that you got a newbie doctor is when a 15-minute session takes an hour to finish.

Sclerotherapy is available in all SkinStation  and
DERMAX Laser Center branches nationwide.
Compression stockings are also offered as an
add-on for Sclerotherapy.

Another downside is that barely visible, tiny, and thin veins may be too small to treat with sclerotherapy. This is especially true with spider veins on the face. Nd:YAG laser is good for eliminating the smallest veins that sclerotherapy cannot destroy. That's why some doctors recommend laser as a finishing touch for vein treatments.

Bottomline: Sclerotherapy still gives the better and more reliable results vs. laser. And it’s cheaper too. Sclerotherapy and laser may be combined to get a thorough clean up of spider veins.Going back to basics, spider and varicose veins can be avoided by having regular exercise to improve blood circulation, avoidance of work that requires hours of standing, and wearing of support stockings daily. Compression stockings are often recommended for post-treatment care.

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This article appeared in The Manila Bulletin Main Section, page 2 on May 26, 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).

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MAXILIGHT FACIAL

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MAXILIGHT FACIAL

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? Even in children’s fairy tales, it is evident that there is a fascination with fair skin. A fair complexion symbolizes wealth and beauty for most Asian women. It is interesting to note that in Asia, the Philippines has the highest usage of skin whitening products, followed by Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Taiwan.

If you want to have fairer skin or simply lighten skin discolorations, here’s something you must try.

THE NEW MAXILIGHT FACIAL is now available exclusively at SkinStation. Developed specifically for whitening and to even out skin tone, the one hour facial has for its finale the infusion of advanced DERMAX MaxiLight Intensive Whitening Essence. 

THE KEY INGREDIENTS in MaxiLight serum are among the world’s top whitening actives, widely recognized as safe,
clinically proven, and highly effective. The trio of alpha-Arbutin, glabridin from Licorice Extract, and stabilized Vitamin C work in synergy in a proprietary formula that delivers the actives where they are needed most.

Arbutin is plant-derived hydroquinone, extracted from bearberry, cranberries, blueberries, wheat, and pears. Note that MaxiLight uses alpha-Arbutin, which is much more effective than its other form, the beta-Arbutin.

Glabridin is extracted and purified from the root of Licorice plant, and has found use in the most expensive whitening products. The glabridin in MaxiLight is nano-encapsulated for longer stability and faster absorption, increasing efficacy tremendously. 

Stabilized Vitamin C in MaxiLight is in its most effective ester form, the ENVCE. Vitamin C is well known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-acne properties, as well as skin
lightening and protection against sun damage.

The combination of alpha-Arbutin, glabridin from Licorice Extract, and Vitamin C in MaxiLight effectively slows down melanin formation (dark coloring process) and protects skin
cells.

EXPECT AMAZING RESULTS with multiple sessions at treatment interval of two weeks. MaxiLight Facial is most beneficial when done in combination with Diamond Peel, and daily application of DERMAX UV sunscreen, Retinol-C, and Night Essence. Avoidance of unnecessary sun exposure is a must! 

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This article appeared in The Manila Bulletin on May 12, 2015. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of DERMAX and SkinStation, two leading skin clinic chains in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

SO YOU WANT WHITER SKIN?

So You Want Whiter Skin?

Two out of five Asian women feel they can be more attractive by having a lighter skin tone. In the Philippines, one out of two women use whitening products.

While we espouse that we should be proud of our natural skin tone, who are we to judge someone who wants a lighter complexion? We develop products and services designed to even out skin discolorations. What will work for skin discoloration will also work to whiten skin, which has the bigger demand.

What the market wants is fast and permanent skin lightening. These are unrealistic expectations that could lead to disastrous results.

When formulating a product, our number one consideration is safety. We use only ingredients that are proven safe. Then we engineer these whitening actives to enhance their efficacy. We also use advanced encapsulation technology to ensure long term stability.

Below are the five whitening ingredients that have passed our screening for safety and efficacy:

Glabridin from Licorice Root Extract

Two decades ago, we developed the trailblazing Godiva natural skin care products, the first to use glabridin from licorice extract as whitening active. Then, 40% glabridin was the best that can be achieved. Now, we have 90% glabridin, which we nano-encapsulated for really amazing results.

Alpha-Arbutin

Arbutin is a plant-derived hydroquinone, extracted from bearberry, cranberries, blueberries, wheat, and pears. The mild effect of arbutin is attributed to the controlled release of hydroquinone. Arbutin is present in two (2) forms, namely alpha and beta-arbutin. Alpha-arbutin offers higher stability and efficacy compared to the beta form.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has been clinically tested extensively and showed excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-acne properties. It also lightens skin and protects against sun damage. Vitamin C is notoriously unstable and cannot be used in creams and serum. The stable ester form of Vitamin C is the ingredient used instead.

Glutathione

This is probably the most popular whitening ingredient nowadays. Combined with Vitamin C, glutathione is taken as a food supplement, and IV pushed. For creams and lotions, we have nano-encapsulated glutathione to make it stable and small enough to penetrate the skin.

Retinol

Any whitening regimen requires exfoliation to improve efficacy. Retinol is the milder version of tretinoin, the gold standard of dermatologist for exfoliation. Retinol is converted slowly into tretinoin upon contact with our skin. We used advanced technology to produce time-released encapsulated retinol. This vastly improves mildness yet provides consistent results.

Conclusion

One can aspire to regain one’s original skin tone. There’s nothing wrong with that. Check the part of your skin that is not exposed to the sun. That is your real color. To attain that, always wear sunscreen everyday, and avoid unnecessary sun exposure. Use only proven safe and FDA registered products. Avoid products promising magic results and miracles but are not safe to use.

DERMAX NanoWhite Intensive Underarm Cream
with Retinol plus Glabridin, Alpha-Arbutin, and Vitamin C

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This article appeared in The Manila Bulletin Main Section, page 9 on April 28, 2015. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of DERMAX and SkinStation, two leading skin clinic chains in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

DO YOU REALLY NEED FOAM IN CLEANSERS?

DO YOU REALLY NEED FOAM IN CLEANSERS?

“Cleansers that do not foam are not good. They cannot clean just as well as a bubbly skin cleanser or soap.”

If you believe this, you cannot be blamed. Through the years, print ads and TV commercials have been miseducating the public. Products are being sold on the basis of having the most foam. “More foam means more cleaning power,” the ads would claim. Perhaps, but does your skin really need to be squeaky clean? 

Let’s take a look at the science behind skin cleansers. The purpose of a skin cleanser is to clean off the oil, debris, and makeup that accrue during a normal day. To do that, all soaps or cleansers work by a process called “micellation.” Through “micellation,” big substances such as oil or dirt are broken into smaller ones so they can rinse off the skin easily.

Two ingredients make this possible. A fat derived ingredient (fatty acid) attaches to the oils on the skin and dissolves them, while an alkaline substance makes it possible to rinse the tiny particles off the skin. Today, most cleansers use synthetic surfactants which are cheaper and easier to manufacture. The most commonly used surfactants are sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).

Sulfates efficiently remove oils, dirt, and makeup. However, they cannot distinguish between the good and the bad oils on the skin, resulting in over cleansing. They leave your skin feeling dry. Once the skin senses dryness, the oil glands are activated to produce more oil. This disturbs the natural moisture balance of skin. Oily skin becomes even more oily. Dry skin becomes more sensitive.

The better alternative is to use a mild cleanser. DERMAX gel cleansers use natural soap berry extract and coconut derived coco betaine as cleansing agents. They contain no harsh sulfates, no toxic parabens, and no fragrances that can irritate skin.

Another option is to use an oil-based cleanser such as Pure Bliss Squalane Oil. It dissolves the sebaceous oils without harming the skin’s moisture barrier. You can use cotton pad soaked with squalane oil to remove makeup. There is no need to rinse. This leaves the skin moisturized. The skin is not left dry so the sebaceous glands do not have to go into overdrive to produce more sebum.

How can you tell if your cleanser has harsh surfactants? It foams a lot. The sulfates create the foams in cleansers. You don’t need foam from sulfates. You don’t need anything that’s too powerful yet harsh on your skin.

DERMAX Gel Cleansers are guaranteed sulfate-free and gentle on your skin.
Pure Bliss Organic Squalane Oil moisturizes and enhances suppleness. ECOCERT

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This article appeared in The Manila Bulletin Lifestyle Section on April 14, 2015. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of DERMAX and SkinStation, two leading skin clinic chains in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC). He can be reached at fred.reyes@skinstation.ph.

TOP 5 SUMMER MUST-HAVES

TOP 5 SUMMER MUST-HAVES

Summer is just around the corner. Before you flaunt that yellow polka dot bikini in your dream beach destination, are you sure you’re summer-ready? Know the must-haves to summer-glowing skin and bikini-ready body:

1. SUN PROTECTION 

You might be enjoying the sun too much but remember to apply sunscreen regularly. In fact, using sunscreen is not just for summer but all-year round. Harmful UV rays account for 90% of all skin damages, which is why sun protection is an absolute must.

DERMAX offers a sunscreen line formulated for all skin types. 

UV Milk Anti-Aging Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++ has a milky touch formula and provides maximum UVA/UVB daily sun protection. 

UV Gel Water-Based Sunscreen SPF 30+ PA+++ provides sun protection for oily, acne-prone and sensitive skin. 

Rated “must try” are the innovative DERMAX sunscreens with “water-burst” technology that leaves a cooling burst of moisture on your skin. These are: UV Baby Sunscreen SPF 30+ PA+++ that is safe for kids and babies 6+ months, and 

UV Active Sunscreen SPF 45+ PA+++ which is a water-resistant sunscreen for those with active lifestyles.

2. HAIR-FREE SKIN 

Dare to bare this summer season. But what’s more unsightly than a bare skin full of unwanted hair? SkinStation’s highly popular painless Diode Laser, the gold standard in laser hair removal, lets you achieve hair-free skin with a pain-free experience. After completing a multiple-session Diode Laser program, your skin is guaranteed with permanent hair reduction.

3. BIKINI-READY BODY 

Achieve beach body with MesoLipo and LipoLight combo treatments for spot fat reduction. They will also help minimize the appearance of cellulite on any part of the body. Add ThermaShape program to firm and tighten loose skin after the fats are gone. 

4. AFTER-SUN NOURISHMENT 

Staying too long under the sun can make your skin dry and damaged. Pure Bliss 100% Pure Argan Oil from Morocco moisturizes, nourishes, and protects from head to toe. 

5. INSECT REPELLENT 

Going to the beach? Be sure that you are protected against itchy-crazy sand flea bites. If you are going trekking, insect repellant is likewise a must. SkinStation offers Naturepel Insect Repellent Spray that is safe and child-friendly. It contains Leleshwa oil, a safer and better insect repellent alternative to DEET. 

BOTTOM LINE: While you enjoy the sun this summer season, never ever neglect your skin. Protect, repair, and achieve that perfect summer glow with DERMAX Professional skin care products and SkinStation’s innovative treatments.

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This article appeared in The Manila Bulletin Lifestyle Section on March 24, 2015. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of DERMAX and SkinStation, two leading skin clinic chains in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC). He can be reached at fred.reyes@skinstation.ph.

NONSURGICAL BEAUTY ADVANCES FROM KOREA (Part 1)

Nonsurgical Beauty Advances from Korea (Part 1) 

If you want to have radiant, young-looking skin like your favorite Korean movie stars, look no further. Dr. Kwon Han Jin, a famous aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon in Korea, and CEO of Dermaster Clinic Networks, revealed that advanced aesthetic technologies he has developed, such as Ultra V-Lift, Aqua Shine, and Canula RF, are the favored procedures of celebrities.

Let’s focus on Ultra V-Lift for now. Dr. Kwon visited SkinStation on February 28, 2015 to train our aesthetic doctors on recent advances in Ultra V-Lift, a nonsurgical facelift procedure that is taking the world by storm. Below is how Dr. Kwon explains the procedure. 

What exactly is Ultra V-Lift? 
Ultra V-Lift makes use of fine threads called polydioxanone (PDO) that are commonly used in surgery. The threads are inserted into targeted areas under the skin to stimulate skin tissue. As a result, the skin tissues create new fibroblasts and collagen. This produces a tightening effect from inside out. When sagging skin is tightened, it creates a more sculpted ‘V-shaped’ face, hence the name.

How is the procedure done? 
The entire procedure takes about 1 hour. An anesthetic cream is first applied on the area to be treated. The doctor then deftly inserts the threads under the skin. In the hands of an expert doctor, there will hardly be any pain, bleeding or swelling. The threads will eventually dissolve, and will be slowly absorbed into the body. Ultra V-Lift for sagging skin

Ultra V-Lift for sagging skin

Who would be suitable candidates? 
Most patients are between the ages of 30 and 50, when the effects of aging become apparent. Aging causes the skin tissue to thin because the collagen and elastin fibers break down, which results in sagging skin, deep creases, folds, and wrinkles. Ultra V-Lift will help reverse the signs of aging.

How is Ultra V-Lift different from the traditional facelift? 
Traditional facelift treatments are invasive. The surgeon makes incisions, inserts thread in a certain direction, and then pulls the sagging skin. The area of application is limited and there is downtime. In Ultra V-Lift, the application area is anywhere on the body, including the eye corners, cheeks, neck, nose, forehead, laugh lines, forearm and abdomen, with hardly any downtime.

How long do the effects last? 
While the effects are visible shortly after treatment, the best results can be seen after 2 months, and these will last for 8 months to 1 year. Annual touch-up session is recommended to maintain the improvements.


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This article appeared in The Manila Bulletin Lifestyle Section on March 10, 2015. The author is Fred Reyes, a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of DERMAX and SkinStation, two leading skin clinic chains in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

IS FRAGRANCE BAD FOR YOUR SKIN

Is Fragrance Bad For Your Skin?

There are many documented cases of allergic reaction to fragrances. Statistics show that fragrances account for 35% – 40% of contact dermatitis in cosmetics.  

If fragrance is bad for the skin, why is it that the first thing almost everyone does when testing any skin care product is smell it? A product with a wonderful aroma will almost always have the edge. The big majority certainly believes that fragrances can be a positive enhancement in their skin care routine.

The simple truth is that only 1% – 4% of the general population is at risk, and the allergic reactions are generally described as mild.

Statistically though, the numbers are considered significant. The fragrance-sensitive population is also steadily growing, from 1% in 1997 to 4% in 2003.  It’s 2015 now. How high has this number increased?

If you are one of those prone to allergic reactions, it is best to look for truly fragrance-free products. This can be very tricky and challenging.

Products labeled as fragrance-free may still contain scent-masking ingredients with potential for irritation. These are usually essential oils that can contain the very same allergens found in fragrances.

The more commonly used essential oils with offending allergens are lavender oil (linalool), rose oil (geraniol), cinnamon and vanilla (eugenol), chamomile (cinnamal), citronella (citronellol), and citrus (limonene).

DERMAX fragrance-free products
are guaranteed free of fragrance.

These are among the 26 fragrance ingredients in the EU Cosmetic Directive (March 2005) requiring that these be included in ingredients list at concentrations >10 ppm for leave-on products, and >100 ppm in rinse-off products.

The bottom line: For the majority, and that means over 90% of the general population, fragrances in cosmetics need not spell trouble. If you belong to this group, and a refreshing lavender-scented moisturizer will relieve you of your stress, then you should go for it. If you are the sensitive skin type, you should be careful in choosing the right skin care products that are really fragrance-free. ____________________________________________________

This article appeared in the main section of The Manila Bulletin, page 3, on February 24, 2015. Fred Reyes is a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of DERMAX and SkinStation, two leading skin clinic chains in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).