Bonjour Mes Amis!
You may have heard about our upcoming “Luck of the French!” St Paddy’s Day Open House, March 17th from 10:00 to 6:00. We’ll be featuring presentations on “Pigmentation Solutions” by Jan Marini Skin Research sales executive Christiane Botelho, Makeup Application by Christie Forcella from Colorescience unveiling their newest 3 in 1 clinical pigment perfector, corrector and SPF50 protectant EVEN UP, and most notably, Dr. Grace Kim, renowned local cosmetic physician who will be offering Botox services from 10:00 til 2:00.
The focus of this event is on hyperpigmentation- the causes, effects and ways to address evening out skin tone.
So, you may well ask, what is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is defined as any abnormal increase in genetically programmed skin pigmentation.Many factors can contribute to changes in skin color or uneven pigmented patches. These include: UV light (did you know that even fluorescent office lights can be a source of UV exposure?), chemicals, genetics, age, local infection, hormones, drugs, and acne.
Common hyperpigmentation concerns are usually focused on solar lentigo (areas of discoloration from sun exposure). Areas most affected are the face and the back of the hands. How many of us remember to reapply sunscreen every 80 minutes? Do you apply it daily to the back of your hands which receive constant exposure while you drive?
Melasma, another form of abnormal coloration, is characterized by blotchy brown hyperpigmented patches that have an irregular shape and may be distributed over the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and neck. Frequently, this condition occurs during pregnancy, at menopause, and in those taking hormones or oral contraceptives. It can also rarely occur in men. Sun exposure and certain topical or oral medications can worsen the appearance of of the discolored areas dramatically. Melasma can affect either the epidermal (superficial) layers of the skin, the dermal (deep) layers of the skin, or both. The distinction, visible through a Woods Lamp, is important because epidermal pigmentation may respond well to being lessened or resolved with topical agents while dermal pigmentation may need to be addressed more aggressively.
It is a fact that pigment plays a role in protecting the skin from damage caused by ultra-violet light (sun exposure). Recent studies indicate that this protective action is due to melanin’s ability to act as a potent free radical scavenger. Apparently, free radicals that are triggered through sun exposure are neutralized by melanin which in turn aids in preventing cellular DNA damage. However, continuous UV exposure (without protection) creates a cycle of pigment production at the dermal (deeper skin) level, causing inflammation, melanocyte activation, melanin synthesis, and melanin transfer. The result, in plain terms, is uneven, blotchy skin tone, detracting from the overall clarity and youthful even tone of your skin.
Non Prescription Product recommendations
Glycolic Acid
Medical studies indicate that glycolic acid assists in resolving hyperpigmentation by breaking down the cellular bonds of the dead layers (stratum corneum), causing a lifting of over-pigmented areas.It is also proven to act as a delivery agent for other topical products and medications , thus enhancing the effects of lightening agents. It can be found in Jan Marini’s Bioclear Lotion and Cream (Step 3 of the Skin Care Management System).
Kojic and Azelaic Acid
Kojic acid has been used safely in Japan for many years without irritation or long-term complications associated with other lightening agents. Azelaic acid is a powerful component in the treatment of some hyperpigmentary disorders such as melasma, chloasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Both of these actives are safe and non-toxic for short and long-term use. When combined with glycolic acid, the results they provide are enhanced.
Hexylresorcinol
This highly effective, non-toxic lightening agent has been shown to have efficacy comparable to or greater than 4% hydroquinone. It is a powerful tyrosinase inhibitor, exceptional at addressing overly pigmented areas and brightening overall skin tone.
You will find the above four lightening agents in Jan Marini Skin Research’s ENLIGHTEN PLUS, to be featured at A French Touch Salon’s “Pigmentation Solutions” Open House on March 17, 2015. Also featured will be Colorescience Minerals’ new 3 -in- 1 clinical pigment perfector with SPF50, in a beautiful universal tint that doubles as a primer while it works on brightening the complexion. Read our blog post detailing the benefits of EVEN UP, as a complementary product to ENLIGHTEN PLUS, to help you achieve a more even, brighter skin tone.
We hope to see you, as we celebrate the “luck of the French!”
Patricia
Because of this, we have crafted an entire event around addressing hyperpigmentation–reversing its effects, and stopping the process in its tracks. (Hint, check out our posts on Even Up and Enlighten Plus!)
Be sure to attend our “Luck of the French” Event, March 17th!
Call (805) 785-0340 today to reserve! A $20 reservation fee is redeemable toward product that day.
See you there!
Adrienne
