customer profile: Erica Suppa

This week’s Customer Profile comes from Delaware-based aesthetician Erica Suppa of Fresh Faced Skin Care.

 

Name: Erica Suppa

Business: Fresh Faced Skin Care

City and State of Business: New Castle, DE

1. How long have you been a skin health professional?

Four years.

2. Why did you become a skin health professional? 

I became a skin health professional in order to combine my 13 years as a research scientist with my passion for skin care.

3. Tell us about a time you improved a patient’s life by addressing their skin concerns.

A client came to me with cystic acne that she had for 13 years. She had been to dermatologists and other aestheticians without any success. She scheduled an appointment with me and after three visits, was completely clear of her cystic acne and inflammation. She now visits me regularly and refers her family and friends.

4. Do you have a favorite modality used in the treatment room?

I love my ultrasonic spatula. I implement that modality most often for blackhead removal as well as product penetration.

5. What makes you a successful skin health professional? 

My knowledge of skin biology and cosmetic chemistry makes me a successful skin health professional. If you understand the root cause, you will always be effective at correcting your client’s concern.

6. Why did you choose to partner with PCA SKIN?  

I chose PCA SKIN because of the quality of ingredients and smart formulations. The products are highly effective, the customer service is outstanding and the price point is competitive.

7. What is your favorite PCA SKIN daily care product and why?

Perfecting Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is my favorite PCA SKIN product. I love the texture, smell and smart mix of ingredients.

8. What is your favorite PCA SKIN professional treatment and why?

My favorite PCA SKIN professional treatment is Sensi Peel®. It is such a remarkable formula and it works wonders on rosacea.

9. What would you say to a newly certified PCA SKIN professional?

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box! Be creative and be open to layering your professional treatments to truly customize your client’s results.

If you are a PCA Certified Professional interested in being profiled in this series, please email info@pcaskin.com.

introducing the new Total Strength Serum

As a company committed to continuous improvement, and bringing new and innovative products to our customers and their patients, we are thrilled to introduce the newest addition to the PCA SKIN anti-aging family of products:

 Total Strength Serum

This next generation peptide and epidermal growth factor product strengthens the structure of the skin, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and pores. In addition to this exciting new peptide blend, patients will also benefit tremendously from rh-Oligopeptide-1 (EGF), glycosaminoglycans, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, vitamin E, coconut fruit extract and honeysuckle extracts to synthesize collagen production and reduce the loss of elasticity.

who is Total Strength Serum for?

Total Strength Serum is indicated for twice daily full-face application for those with any age-related concerns. It is appropriate for patients looking to add an anti-aging serum as a preventative measure, or as an added boost to a current aging regimen.

key features

• Total Strength Serum contains a next generation peptide ingredient blend
• EGF stimulates cells to repair and reproduce healthy cells
• A singular product that addresses loss of elasticity, enlarged pores, loss of collagen production and wrinkling
• No formaldehyde donors, fragrance or parabens have been used

key benefits

• Total Strength Serum is intended for full-face application
• This product will strengthen skin structure and increase collagen synthesis
• When used twice daily, this product helps reduce loss of elasticity and minimizes the appearance of pores

what does it pair well with?

Total Strength Serum pairs well with several PCA SKIN corrective products:

• ExLinea® Peptide Smoothing Serum – for the ultimate in anti-aging prevention and correction
• Intensive Age Refining Treatment™: 0.5% pure retinol night – for fast anti-aging results with double the collagen building action
• C-Strength 15% and 20% with 5% Vitamin E – for a boost in collagen synthesis and antioxidant protection

For more information about Total Strength Serum, head over to pcaskin.com or call a member of the PCA team at 877.PCA.SKIN [722.7546].

glycation: how A.G.E. contribute to skin aging

Glycation is a reaction that happens both inside and outside of our bodies. It is a process by which sugars (primarily fructose and glucose) bond with proteins and fats to form advanced glycation end-products, or A.G.E. These pro-inflammatory compounds can cause the all-important collagen and elastin in our skin to become weak and stiff, accelerating the visible signs of aging. Although a certain amount of sugar is necessary for healthy body function, it has been asserted that a low glycemic diet is a beneficial part of any anti-aging regimen.

Because these A.G.E. also induce a browning reaction (called a Maillard reaction, as it was discovered by chemist Louis-Camille Maillard in 1912), they are often added to many foods we consume to improve their color, taste and appearance. Unfortunately, this is clearly a sales and marketing benefit, not a health benefit. High levels of A.G.E. are being studied for their role in type II diabetes, ocular diseases and heart diseases.

Below is a list of some ingredients and the PCA SKIN products they are found in that help fight the visible skin aging that can be exacerbated by glycation:

• Aminoguanidine (Nutrient Toner, A&C Synergy Serum®)
• Arginine (Perfecting Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30, Body Therapy, A&C Synergy Serum®, Intensive Clarity Treatment: 0.5% pure retinol night)
• Niacinamide (ReBalance, Rejuvenating Serum, Hydrating Serum, Pigment Bar®, Activator (Step 1 from the Oxygenating Trio))
• Green Tea Extract, Flavonodis, Antocyans – different polyphenolics (these are found in a wide range of PCA SKIN products)

Nutrient Toner’s blend of aminoguanadine and multiple polyphenol antioxidants make it a great choice for anti-glycation. A&C Synergy Serum® and Perfecting Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30 are also excellent options.

Feel free to call us at 877.PCA.SKIN [722.7546] or email us at info@pcaskin.com anytime with questions about glycation and how to fight its ill effects on the skin.

fall-friendly treatments

The cooler autumn weather can be difficult for our skin to adapt to without some assistance. There are many exciting and beneficial ways to combine products and treatments to rejuvenate skin after a long summer in the sun and prepare it for the winter ahead.To help you and your patients achieve healthy, beautiful skin this time of year, consider this PCA SKIN^® fall-friendly treatment protocol, that will improve skin health and maintain results, no matter the temperature or the season.

Hydration and Detoxification Treatment

 This treatment features Hydrate: Therapeutic Oat Milk Mask with Activator (Step 1 from the Oxygenating Trio®) and Detoxifier (Step 2 from the Oxygenating Trio®) to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and deliver a brighter and clearer complexion. 

cleanse 

1. Facial Wash Oily/Problem (pHaze 1) — Cleanse the area of treatment thoroughly. Rinse and pat dry.

prep/degrease

2. Smoothing Toner (pHaze 2) — Apply to gently prep (degrease) the skin. This product may sting or tingle on some individuals. Assess sensitivity by asking the patient, “On a scale of one to ten, ten being extremely active, how do you rate this sensation (or feeling)?”

treat 

3. Hydrate: Therapeutic Oat Milk Mask — Apply a quarter-sized amount to the area of treatment using a fan brush. For best results, massage the mask into the skin with gloved hands. Use the scale of 1 to 10 to gauge sensitivity. Fan the skin to keep the patient cool. Allow the mask to remain on the skin for up to 10 minutes. Remove completely with cotton squares moistened with warm water.

4. Activator (Step 1 from the Oxygenating Trio®) — Pour a dime-sized amount into a small peel dish. Apply generously with a brush over the entire area of treatment. Allow to penetrate and dry thoroughly. The patient will feel internal warming as the oxygenation process is being stimulated.

5. Detoxifier (Step 2 from the Oxygenating Trio®) — Massage a small amount into the skin with your fingers in a circular motion for approximately two minutes. Take your time with this process as this step drives Activator (Step 1) into the skin and promotes circulation. Remove any obvious excess by gently blotting with a tissue or with Nutrient Toner (pHaze 5) on a cotton pad.

correct 

6. ExLinea® Peptide Smoothing Serum (pHaze 25) — Apply to areas of laxity and wrinkling.

7. C-Quench® Antioxidant Serum (pHaze 15+) — Apply a dime-sized amount for additional strengthening and hydrating benefits.

8. Hydrating Serum (pHaze 43) — Apply a dime-sized amount to the area of treatment to encourage ceramide, essential fatty acid (EFA) and moisture retention, improving the overall function of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF).

9. Oxygenator (Step 3 from the Oxygenating Trio®) — Massage a small amount into the skin with your fingers in a circular motion over the entire area of treatment. A little of this product goes a long way, so do not overuse. Avoid contact with the eyebrows and hair due to possibility of bleaching. Coverage should be thin, even and thorough.

retinoid booster (optional) 

10. Esthetique Peel — Apply one pump for increased exfoliation, purifying benefits and an even skin tone. Gently spread the product over the area of treatment, keeping the application even and thin.

hydrate and protect 

11. ReBalance (pHaze 17) and Perfecting Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30 — Complete the treatment with this combination to calm, hydrate and protect the skin from UVA and UVB exposure. An alternate PCA SKIN® broad spectrum SPF product may be used to increase customization: Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45 for oily, breakout-prone skin; Protecting Hydrator Broad Spectrum SPF 30 for normal to oily skin; or Hydrator Plus Broad Spectrum SPF 30 for normal to dry skin.

giving your hands a helping hand

The skin on our hands is likely some of the hardest working and most neglected on our bodies. You may think that feet take the worst beating, but they are covered and protected from UV exposure much of the time, reducing the stress on that skin.

Hands endure an onslaught of caustic ingredients, and too much exposure to water and sun. This being true, hands are also typically neglected – even by those that spend hundreds of dollars on products for their faces.

To help mitigate some of the stress on hands, follow some of these helpful tips.

1. When applying age and hyperpigmentation controlling products and antioxidant serums to your face, dispense a little more than you will need for your face and after smoothing it onto the skin on your face apply the remainder to the backs of your hands and forearms.

2. Follow this same rule when applying sunscreen. Ideally everyone should be applying adequate broad spectrum SPF to all exposed ares 20 minutes prior to exposure.

3. Be aware of where you rest your hands when driving. UVA rays travel right through glass, so while commuting or driving around town try to position your hands out of direct sun. This is, of course, only if it does not impair you ability to drive safely!

4. Every evening before bed, apply Body Therapy all over, but concentrate on hands, cuticles and elbows. If you have spa gloves, put them over Body Therapy to enhance the penetration of the 12% lactic acid. Your hands will be baby soft when you wake up. (hint: this is a life saver on your feet as well!)

Next time you get a professional treatment, have your hands treated to the same peel or mask you are receiving on your face. We take so much time trying to preserve the youth of our facial skin, but all too often it is the hands that give away a person’s age or poor lifestyle choices. Give your hands a helping hand…

continuing our commitment

Today, after two decades of leading the way in the clinical skin care industry, PCA SKIN remains the healthcare industry leader in the development of gentle, yet highly effective professional treatments and daily care products. Our philosophy starts with the basic premise that healthy skin is beautiful skin. At PCA SKIN we use rigorous research and science to develop safe, highly effective products that deliver visible results. We accomplish this while maintaining a deep respect for human health and the environment. We do not perform or condone animal testing, and all of our finished products are tested for safety and efficacy in clinical trials.

Although government regulations, conclusive science and market sentiment don’t always intersect, we place great importance on all three. We will always rely on conclusive scientific data when formulating products, and we choose only proven, best-in-class ingredients. Wherever you find PCA SKIN products sold globally, you can be confident that our products meet or exceed that country’s regulations. Although not always founded on conclusive science, some popular market concerns have driven decision-making for many companies. It is important that our customers know we listen and respond to valid concerns. We respect science, regulations and consumer sentiment, and are proud that our formulations provide you with the best.

We would like to commend some of the larger companies in the personal care industry for making new commitments to the health and safety of their customers. It is critical that companies always put the needs of consumers first. From PCA’s inception over two decades ago, product efficacy and safety has always been our focus and goal. Thank you for continuing to trust PCA SKIN, and know that we have already achieved the safety standards that these larger companies are striving to reach over the next few years.

prevention is the best treatment

 

We all know that sunscreen is vital to skin health, but many may not consider it to be a true anti-aging product. In fact, it is the most important age control product available to the skin care professional. Above retinoids, vitamin C and alpha hydroxy acids, which undoubtedly improve the appearance of aging skin, sunscreen can singlehandedly prevent damage from occurring.

As summer fades, it is critical to remember the importance of year-round sunscreen use. Remember that unlike UVB, the sun’s UVA (responsible for aging) rays’ strength remains constant throughout the day and throughout the year. These rays are able to penetrate through clouds and windows and their effects target everyone, regardless of skin type, tone or condition. Many patients have an “it won’t happen to me” mentality when it comes to skin cancer, but most are frightened of the inevitable aging process. This fall, change your way of thinking about preventing and treating visible aging: year-round daily use of broad spectrum sunscreen.

The suite of PCA SKIN sun protection formulas is truly revolutionary. The virtually undetectable Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45 for oily, acneic skin; Perfecting Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30 for post-procedure care and those prone to uneven skin tone; Protecting Hydrator Broad Spectrum SPF 30 for normal to oily skin; Hydrator Plus Broad Spectrum SPF 30 for normal to dry skin and Active Broad Spectrum SPF 45: Water Resistant for use during outdoor activities. Their combination of ultra-sheer, micronized zinc oxide and octinoxate provide unsurpassed broad spectrum UVA/UVB coverage. Milk thistle-derived silybin and caffeine inhibit the formation of sunburn cells, reduce free radical damage and destroy damaged keratinocytes. PCA SKIN has perfected year-round protection.

the wonders of papaya

Not only is papaya a delicious and nutritious tropical fruit, it is also a rich source of enzymes and nutrients that can be used topically to improve skin health.

Papaya fruit courtesy of organiclifestylemagazine.com.

Papain is an important enzyme in papaya that works to exfoliate the skin through proteolytic action. It functions by digesting the excess skin cells that cause impaction on the surface of the skin. Proteolytic enzymes function differently from chemical peeling agents and can be a great alternative between peels. Enzyme treatments are also good introductory options for those who may not be candidates for chemical solutions, or who may be apprehensive and in need of an introduction to professional treatments.

In addition to papain, the papaya fruit is rich in vitamins A and C. These important antioxidants help to fight damaging free radicals and nourish the skin. This powerhouse fruit extract can be found in Revitalize: Therapeutic Papaya Mask by PCA SKIN. This professional-use only mask provides a healthy-dose of papaya fruit extract, along with orange and apple extracts to brighten dull complexions and effectively reduce hyperkeratinized cells, leaving the skin with a healthy glow. Green tea, vitamin E and honey reverse oxidative damage while drawing moisture to the surface, keeping the skin soft and hydrated. This results-oriented therapeutic mask is appropriate for all skin types and conditions.

why doesn’t PCA SKIN recommend using acetone to prep for a peel?

To maximize the penetration and benefits of a chemical peel, peel solutions must be applied by a physician or licensed professional onto clean, degreased skin. As a strong and biocompatible solvent, it would seem that acetone would be a good choice for this purpose.  Although this is the selected method for some, acetone used prior to chemical peeling removes not only the excess sebum that could impede peel penetration, but it also removes an unnecessary amount of the essential cholesterol and lipids from the skin. This tends to leave the skin over-stripped and dry post-procedure, and in the weeks following treatment. A more gentle, yet highly effective option is Smoothing Toner.

PCA SKIN recommends Smoothing Toner to our Certified Professionals, as it is an exceptional choice for preparing skin for the application of any of the PCA SKIN peel solutions. After cleansing with Facial Wash Oily/Problem, this lactic and citric acid-based astringent gently removes any remaining debris or sebum that could reduce the penetration of the selected solution. This method has not only delivered excellent results for over 20 years, but it is a much more pleasant experience for the patient. Acetone is not an unsafe choice, but the dramatic removal of lipids from the skin can be uncomfortable on the skin. With peels that can be performed as frequently as every two weeks (depending on skin condition), an enjoyable treatment experience is obviously preferable. Achieving healthy, beautiful skin depends not only on the daily care a patient uses and the professional treatments you apply, but also relies on the compliance of the patient to return for their scheduled appointments.  Making your treatments pleasant as well as effective will help you deliver for your clientele.

the truth about indoor tanning

There was a time when many thought that indoor tanning was actually a good thing. People would routinely tan indoors prior to vacations to avoid getting a sunburn from outdoor exposure.  The truth is that indoor tanning is a highly dangerous activity that increases skin cancer risks dramatically. Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School collected data from over 73,000 female nurses from 1989-2009. The research indicated that not only are younger tanners at a higher risk, but even just ONE indoor tanning visit a year increased a woman’s likelihood of developing basal cell carcinoma by 10%. Six or more visits increased that chance by 82%.   Just four tanning sessions increased the chances of non-melanoma skin cancers by 15% and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, by 11%. Melanoma is projected to kill 8,790 Americans this year alone. Those are scary numbers.

In addition to the increased cancer risks, indoor tanning creates oxidative damage and increases the visible signs of aging.  The moral of this story is that any tanning is dangerous. To maintain healthy and beautiful skin, indoor tanning should be avoided and daily use of  broad-spectrum UV protection should become habit. Feel free to contact us at PCA SKIN with any questions you may have about protecting yourself from UV damage and skin cancer or to find the best sun protection product for your skin.