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).