show me the real answer?!

1.  My patient asked about Topical Botox
2.  My patient says his/her sunscreen is a ‘waterproof SPF 70’

Question number 1:

First of all, there is no such thing as Topical Botox.  This is the result of some very clever marketing.  By the time this false statement was removed, it had reached just about every type of media available.  The correct name for this ingredient is acetyl hexapeptide-8, or Argireline.  When Argireline is applied topically it inhibits the neurotransmission process that causes muscles to move or contract.  While this is a fabulous peptide that helps with the prevention of fine lines and wrinkles, it in no way is equal to an injection of Botox.  When explaining the differences to your patients, you can say that Botox temporarily places the neurotransmission highway that causes muscles to move under “construction” and the message cannot get from the brain to the facial muscles.  When Argireline is applied, the “highway” is fogged in…. the message will get there, but it’s much slower.  PCA SKIN®’s ExLinea ® Peptide Smoothing Serum is formulated with Argireline and a host of hydrating and antioxidant ingredients.

Question number 2:

Yes, another myth that gives our patients a false sense of security.  Currently, the SPF number on a sunscreen product ONLY pertains to the UVB protection provided by the product. (This will soon change).  Secondly, there is no such thing as a ‘waterproof’ sunscreen.  They all wash off and must be reapplied every two hours.  Explain to your patients to look for broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.  Also, explain to them that no SPF product provides 100% protection.  We relate the SPF number with the amount of protection and the amount of time that we are protected.  The truth is that an SPF of 15 provides 93% protection, while an SPF of 30 provides 97% protection.  An SPF higher than 30 only increases the percentage of protection by a tiny amount.  Again, inform your patients that they should use a minimum SPF of 30, with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and reapply every two hours.  All of PCA SKIN’s broad-spectrum SPF products are formulated with antioxidants and skin-friendly ingredients and carry the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Approval.

 

Understanding ingredient mechanism of action and product formulation in the skin health industry will enable the clinician to communicate with their patients on all levels.  This in turn will build credibility and long-standing relationships when your patients know they can turn to you for the real answers.  PCA SKIN offers education for aesthetic students, licensed medical professionals and aestheticians all over the country.  Call our team at 877-722-7546 for more information.

start 2011 with an investment in your future

In the competitive landscape of physicians and aestheticians offering a variety of skin care products and in-office treatments, your knowledge and expertise set you apart. The suite of PCA SKIN educational seminars offers something for everyone. Whether you are new to practicing skin care or a seasoned professional, continuing education keeps you on the cutting edge.

PCA SKIN seminars also provide an opportunity to network with your peers from around the country. Because all PCA SKIN educators have active practices themselves, they have real-life experiences similar to yours. Our seminars are a great way to increase your knowledge, learn from others and keep your edge.

The following seminars are held in many cities across the country:

• ingredient & product knowledge seminar
• skin biology & chemical peel seminar
• peel fundamentals: a hands-on course
• advanced peeling techniques for complex skin conditions: a hands-on course
• advanced treatment technologies seminar

Call one of our highly trained and knowledgeable Certification Specialists at 877.PCA.SKIN or visit www.pcaskin.com to register today. We look forward to helping you build your business and improve people’s lives.

hydrate your skin with a chemical peel, really?

Yes, really. Unfortunately, the words ‘chemical peel’ often conjure images of a less than pleasant experience that leaves behind redness, irritation and downtime.  With the right treatment, performed by a trained professional, this outcome is not necessary.  Instead, your skin can be smooth, hydrated, healthy and glowing with no downtime at all.

One of the best ways to ensure that your moisturizers and other treatment topicals are able to penetrate into your skin to provide their intended benefit, is to minimize the amount of impacted skin cells that are lying on the surface of your skin.  A gentle blended chemical peel can do just that. Now, if it is just the removal of the dull surface layer that is the goal, that can also be accomplished with scrubs, enzymes, microdermabrasion and other exfoliation techniques.  The unique action of a well-formulated chemical peel is that it simultaneously releases the impacted surface layer while delivering hydrating, collagen-stimulating, strengthening and brightening ingredients into the skin.  This leaves skin healthy and hydrated.  Once the skin is free of the dull surface layer, any products applied topically will penetrate more efficiently to allow the skin to receive maximum benefits.

All of the PCA SKIN blended TCA peels are excellent choices for brightening, smoothing, strengthening and hydrating the skin.  There is an option for all skin types, Fitzpatrick type and skin challenge.  Sensi Peel(R), Ultra Peel(R) I and Ultra Peel(R) Forte are all excellent choices.  Call us for more information about our unparalleled chemical peels, and our educational opportunities that can prepare licensed professionals to be PCA SKIN peel experts.

expand your mind

Successful people have many things in common.  For one, their intellectual curiousity drives them to continuously seek out new information. This is also true for skin care clinicians.  Those who stay up on the latest information on topical ingredients, new treatments and advances in skin conditions attract a larger patient base.  Increased knowledge not only helps get better results for your patients, it also deepens the trust relationship you have with them.

No one ever knows everything.  We can learn from peers, publications, seminars, online media and many other sources. Continuing education, even after many years in the industry, will keep you at the top of your field and keep your business thriving.

PCA SKIN has been a trusted leader in skin health education for two decades.  We have an unwaivering dedication to sharing honest science and time-tested methods of treatment with our Certified Professionals.  In addition to our skin biology & chemical peel seminar, ingredient & product knowledge seminar and advanced treatment technologies, we now have two new and exciting hands-on seminars.

peel fundamentals: a hands-on course and advanced peeling techniques for complex skin conditions: a hands-on course are now available to licensed professionals that have previously attended skin biology & chemical peel seminar.  These classes offer an excellent opportunity to practice what you have learned and hone your skills.

You can find out more about all of our educational offerings by contacting a highly-trained member of our practice development team or by visiting our website www.pcaskin.com.