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How To Improve Mask Acne and Skin Irritations For Clearer Skin

Tuesday, September 22nd, 2020

Wearing a mask in public or when with others outside your household is essential in helping to prevent the spread of the Corona Virus.  However, wearing masks for extended periods of time can cause skin issues, so much so that there is a new trendy term to describe it:  “Maskne” (mask acne).

Sweating or breathing into a mask for an extended period can create a humid breeding ground for bacteria. This can result in cell break down and clogged pores which lead to black heads and acne breakouts, even for those who have lived a life of clear skin.  Friction from the mask that is too loose or does not fit properly can cause a breakdown of the skin’s protective barrier, resulting in skin rashes, breakouts and skin irritations.

What Can I Do To Prevent Mask Acne or Skin Irritations?

  1. Avoid using harsh or drying soap.  Certain cleansers can strip protective oils from your skin which are necessary to keep your protective barrier in-tact. If your skin feels dry or tight after washing, it is not the right cleanser for you. Using a harsh product can make your skin even more sensitive to mask friction.
  2. Wash your mask regularly! Re-using a mask that has make-up, debris or skin oils on it can create the perfect breakout environment.  Silk masks and some high-grade cottons are typically more gentle on the skin.
  3. Take off your mask when you are not with others. Put it in the sun (like on the dash of your car while driving…) The UV rays will help to kill the bacteria until you can wash it that evening. This is perfect for times when you have been sweating during a work-out, or exposed to summer heat! Let the sun zap some of the bacteria for you!
  4. Choose masks that fit properly!!! Masks that are too big will rub and cause friction, not to mention that loose masks DO NOT give proper protection to you or those around you. Your mask should fit snuggly around all the edges of mask.
  5. Apply a moisturizer. Moisturizers with ceramides like Replenishing Cream or Revive Recovery Complex from Dr. Castillo’s skincare line can help form a protective layer between your skin and mask and reduce irritations since ceramides are lipids that form the skin’s protective barrier. Products like Ultra-Hydration Booster (hyaluronic acid) can offer some soothing hydration to more intense acne breakouts to reduce irritation.  Replenishing Cream also helps to reduce sebum and provides anti-bacterial properties to reduce break-outs.
  6. Use a physical sunscreen formulated with zinc oxide. Zinc Oxide has anti-inflammatory properties that can both soothe and heal and will provide a buffer between your skin and areas where your mask rubs like the bridge of your nose, behind your ears, your cheeks, chin and jawline.  Avoid chemical sunscreens as the chemicals can create irritations and burning sensations.
  7. Let your moisturizer and sunscreen dry completely in between layers and before putting on your mask.
  8. Apply Clarifying Mint Mask (available at Dr. Castillo’s office) 1-2 times per week. This mask is formulated to purify, deep-clean, gently remove dead cells and minimize pore size, all while delivering a much-needed dose of moisture.
  9. Be careful with “home-spa” chemical peels and exfoliants. Aggressive exfoliation can compromise the skin’s barrier making it easy to develop or increase acne breakouts and irritations.
  10. Seek medical professional skincare advice / treatments to control your skin concerns during this time if at-home care does not resolve your skin issues.

 

Roxanne Grace
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

 

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Posted in Patient Advocacy, Skincare & Aging | 1 Comment »

Absolutely Everything You Need to Know About Our Popular Microdermabrasion Treatment

Thursday, January 16th, 2020

Microdermabrasion:

If you are feeling disenchanted with the texture and appearance of your skin, you might check with your local cosmetic plastic surgeon to see if they offer Microdermabrasion.  It can be a simple, even relaxing way to revitalize your complexion.

What is it?

Microdermabrasion is an in-office skin treatment that is used to treat sun-damaged skin, signs of aging, acne-prone skin, acne scarring, mild pigmentation, rough texture and lines. It increases circulation and exfoliates and removes the superficial layer of dry, dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smoother and looking brighter, much like a buff and polish process.

How does it work?

There are two basic types of microdermabrasion:

  1. Crystal Microdermabrasion – This is the original form of microdermabrasion. It was first used over in Europe and then came to the United States by the early 1990’s. In this version, crystals (usually made of aluminum oxide) are sprayed over the skin to exfoliate, then the crystals and skin cells are suctioned back through a tube suction system.

Personally, I am less of a fan of this type of microdermabrasion though it is widely used.  It can sting when the crystal hit the skin, making it a less enjoyable experience.  The crystals can be messy and there is potential for crystals ending up in places they should not. For those who are more sensitive, breathing in aluminum oxide can cause temporary breathing difficulties.

  1. Diamond Tome Microdermabrasion – This version utilizes interchangeable diamond-tip wands with varying degrees of abrasiveness to gently exfoliates and loosens the dead cells which are then suctioned away through a sterile vacuumed system. There is no debri or crystals making this system a healthy choice for both the operator and the patient.

If you have never had Microdermabrasion (or skin treatments such as Micro-Fractional Laser Resurfacing) then it is generally best performed in a series of treatments as each treatment results in more improvement. On average, you can anticipate having about 6 treatments to get your skin back in shape; of course, this depends on the condition of your skin to begin with.  Once your initial series is completed, you may want to consider a microdermabrasion treatment every 4-6 weeks to maintain your results. While microdermabrasion is most often used to treat the face, it can address skin concerns of the neck, chest, hands, arms, legs etc.

At Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center, we take microdermabrasion a few steps further. We offer “Medical Microdermabrasion,” which is a 5-step process.  We begin by exfoliating the skin with microdermabrasion with a Diamond-tome system as described above but we don’t stop there!  We follow with a glycolic application, an oxygen-nutrient mist, a mini facial massage, and finally an application of premium medical grade skincare products.

What improvements could I expect?

With recurring treatments, you can expect to see diminished appearance of lines, rough texture, and acne scarring.  You can expect a more even skin tone, fewer break-outs, a softer feel, and a radiant glow. Microdermabrasion can also help maximize the benefits of your at-home skincare product routine.

 Am I a good candidate?

Microdermabrasion is safe for all colors of skin.  It is best utilized for those with minimal to moderate lines, rough texture, dull, dry or lifeless skin, sun damage, clogged pores / black-heads, acne-prone skin, mild pigmentation concerns.  Microdermabrasion can also be an alternative solution for those with melasma (condition usually due to hormonal changes that results in brown or grey-brown patches on the skin) that becomes aggravated with other forms of treatment.

Those who have Rosacea and those who have active cold sores should avoid this treatment. Those who have waxed, had a chemical peel or other facials treatments should avoid microdermabrasion in the same area for a few weeks.

How will I look after my treatment?

The good news is there is no down time for this rejuvenating treatment.  Your skin may look slightly flushed 10-30 minutes after your treatment. When more advanced ranges of abrasiveness are used, it can result in cat like scratches that will resolve quickly.  Your skin will look and feel smoother after the first treatment and will continue to improve with each additional treatment. You can apply cosmetics right away.  You can return to work, go out for lunch, or carry out any of your daily activities immediately.

Microdermabrasion or exfoliation of any kind will make you skin more sun sensitive for a few weeks. Be sure to apply quality broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen daily and reapply as needed.

 

Yours Truly,

Roxanne Grace
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

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Posted in Microdermabrasion, Uncategorized | 2 Comments »

Stop Committing These Seven Sins Of Skincare: Get Solutions Now

Friday, February 10th, 2017

Fabulous skin is in at any age!  While most of us  want to look our best and avoid pre-mature skin aging, sometimes we commit skincare skins that defeat our goals without even realizing it.  Here are a few skin sins that we share with our skin rejuvenation patients at Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center.

  • Sin #1 – Unprotected sun exposure:

Apply a physical suncreen– every single day, without fail, that’s 365 days a year… every year.  You get the picture 🙂  UV radiation is non-discriminatory.  It will hunt down your skin winter, spring, summer and fall.  It doesn’t care if its sunny or cloudy so daily protection and re-application are key.  Treat this step as part of your daily morning routine, just like brushing your teeth, even when you are not going outside.  This will help establish a habit so that on busy mornings you will be less likely to forget.

  • Sin #2 – Not cleaning your skin after a workout:

Clean your skin after exercising – Washing your skin right after your work-out will help to prevent clogged pores, break-outs, and irritations. If you are  like many people who do not shower at the gym, then keep a tub of Clear Skin Pads by Castillo MD Skin Science in your gym bag. Whisk one across your face at the end of your workout. These triple-action, maximum-strength corrective pads help rid your skin of pore-clogging oils, sweat and debris after your workout. This decreases blackheads and whiteheads and help prevent future breakouts.

  • Sin #3 – SMOKING:

Stop smoking – Among other health concerns, smoking reduces circulation and the oxygen levels in your blood which also effects your skin. It can result in pre-mature aging. Smoking can effect the smoothness, texture and tone of your skin, producing wrinkles, rough texture, and a grayish dull tone. Be sure to avoid second hand smoke as well as it is also very damaging to your skin.

  • Sin #4 – Picking at blemishes:

Do not pick! – I repeat, DO NOT pick at blemishes.  At Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center, we suggest our patients begin a custom regimen of medical grade acne skin care products to reduce or rid their breakouts, thus removing the temptation to pick! Picking can create permanent scarring or changes in pigmentation. Our patients have great success with Castillo MD Skin Science acne products like the  Medicated Cleansing Mousse, Acne Control Serum and Clear Skin Pads.

  • Sin #5 – Dead Skin Build Up:

Exfoliate your skin – Exfoliate your skin 1-2 times per week with a microdermabrasion shower scrub.  Treat yourself to a medical microdermabrasion once a month to keep your complexion free of dead cells and looking smooth and bright.

  • Sin #6 – Mistreatment of your hands:

Be nice to your hands -Treat your skin and nails with care.  Wear gloves when lifting heavy objects or working outside.  Avoid using your nails or fingers to do things like open box tops.  There are actually special tools for that! Avoid washing your hands to hot water.  Wash with warm water instead.  Hot water can be very drying to your skin. Apply moisturizer after each wash.  Remember to apply sunscreen to your hands daily; just driving in the car exposes them to a significant amount of UV radiation which can cause brown spots and pre-mature aging of your hands.

  • Sin #7 –  Going to bed with your make-up on: 

At the very least, cleanse and moisturize before bed – It is so easy to just crawl into bed without removing your make-up after a long day when your energy is zapped but your skin begs of you to resist the temptation.  Going to bed with your make-up on makes it nearly impossible for your skin to perform its nightly duties like natural sloughing, repair and regeneration. Remember that your skin has had a busy day too.  If you are good to your skin; your skin will be good to you!

DSC_0475Roxanne Grace
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

 

 

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Need Medical Grade Skincare Capable of Wonderful Results? Castillo MD Skin Science” Skincare Now Available

Tuesday, April 14th, 2015

For those of you who have not been in the office lately or  do not receive our monthly electronic newsletter,    you are missing out on Dr. Castillo’s BIG NEWS!!  So let me fill you in…Cosmetic Plastic Surgery 9/11/12

For anyone who has ever spent anytime with Dr. Castillo, I’m sure you’ve picked up on the idea that he may just be a bit an an over-achiever with his long list of impressive credentials, over 30 some years of achieving excellence in cosmetic surgery, Past-President of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, he holds not one, not two, but three board-certifications!  He has been involved in countless community service events, lectured around the world and spent years mentoring upcoming medical students, and is a published author, all while remaining an involved father of two, and grandfather. Did I mention he also holds the highest ranking possible as a commercial and private pilot?  All those achievements take some serious dedication and discipline!  That’s the kind of surgeon I want, wouldn’t you agree?

It seems he has been up to something once again!  Yet another accomplishment to announce on his long list.

Lush Simplicity KitIn January, 2015, Dr. Castillo announced the development and arrival of his new, comprehensive,  medical-grade skincare line using only the most advanced, scientific based, proven-effective ingredients. His goal was to build a results oriented medical-grade skincare line that would provide real improvements for our patients at an affordable price point. All of the hard work has finally paid off and we are very proud to invite you to experience “Castillo MD Skin Science.”

I have been using different products from the line and couldn’t be more impressed with the rapid results and impressive improvements in my skin.  As the skincare specialist her at Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center, I am so excited to be able to offer our skincare, laser resurfacing and surgical patients such as advanced line of effective skincare.  Castillo MD Skin Science is sure to build a loyal following of satisfied patients.  It certainly has me hooked!

Castillo MD Skin Science is a sophisticated, anti-aging product line that is optimized to improve a wide range of aging skin concerns including hyper pigmentation, lines, wrinkles, acne, rosacea, sun damage, poor texture, proper hydration and of course sun protection!

So why does Dr. Castillo believe medical-grade skincare is a better investment that over-the-counter skincare?

  • When professional or medical-grade products are made available to you through a licensed physician, the law allows for higher concentrations of active ingredients in those products.

Why is this important to you?

  • This means you are getting more effective formulations which can provide better, faster results and less disappointments from products that don’t work.
  • It also means that you receive an expert skin evaluation, with recommendations from a specially trained expert on creating a custom at home skincare regimen that is customized for your specific skin needs.  Skincare regimens are not meant to be a”cookie-cutter” system but are often treated that way over-the-counter.  At Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center we believe skincare regimens should be customized for the individual.  It is no different that needing eyeglasses.  Would you be happy wearing someone else’s prescription glasses?  Of course not. You could see a specialist who can offer a prescription the is customized just for you.  Why would you settle for anything less with your skincare?

Schedule your free skincare consultation to learn how “Castillo MD Skin Science” can help you achieve and maintain lasting improvements in the way your skin looks, acts & feels!  To learn more about the 28 specialty products available in Dr. Castillo’s Savoy (Champaign-Urbana) location visit his website 

Whose ready for radiant skin?

Yours Truly,

 

Roxanne Leopard Roxanne Grace
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Ask Our Expert, BOTOX® Cosmetic & Dermal Fillers, Facelift, Facial Surgery, Laser, Non-Surgical Treatments, Patient Advocacy, Products, Skincare & Aging, Uncategorized | No Comments »

Ask Our Expert – Stress Acne

Tuesday, August 9th, 2011

Ask Our Expert:  Stress Acne

Q: The only time I seem to get acne is just before an important social event.  Could this really be happening or is it just my imagination?  Is there something I can do to prevent these embarrassing breakouts?

A:  The stress generated from preparing for a social event and wanting to look your best can have a large effect on your skin.  Increased stress can actually have a physical effect on your skin because stress increases the production of cortisol.  Cortisol is a stress hormone that can boost oil production.  Dead skin cells are then pulled into your pores causing acne to form. When your oil glands quickly become over-active, it can not only cause those embarrassing breakouts that you are referring to but often leaves skin looking dull and lifeless.

I would recommend scheduling an appointment at Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center about a 7 – 10 before your next stressful event for a Vitalize Peel. For your convenience, Dr. Castillo offers this treatment at his Savoy (Champaign – Urbana) location.  The Vitalize Peel will eliminate much of the dead skin cells before they can be pulled down into pores when you experience that stress-hormone release. It will also leave your skin radiant and refreshed for your big event.  During this appointment we can also talk about  designing a medical grade skincare program around these issues.

Roxanne, Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

Roxanne Grace
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

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Teenage Acne

Tuesday, July 19th, 2011

TEENAGE ACNE

Acne is far from a simple skin condition.  It possesses the power to produce both physical and emotional scars that can last a lifetime. Acne does not discriminate against race, gender or age.  It elects to play a prominent role in them all. Though acne can begin at almost any stage in life, this blog entry will focus primarily on teenage acne.

I think we can all agree that teenagers face enough pressure without the added stress that acne can cause.  It is important to take this condition seriously. It is particularly important for those teens that are embarrassed or ashamed to get the treatment they need.  Many of the adult patients who come to see us in our Champaign, Illinois offices report that their parents thought that acne was just a part of adolescence; that nothing could be or should be done to control it. And now as adults, they are still dealing with the poor self-image they developed during that time.

Too often, at Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center, we see adult patients whose emotional scars far out-weigh their physical ones.  After Dr. Castillo has removed their acne scars with CO 2 full face laser resurfacing and dermabrasion, they are excited and proud of their new smooth, beautiful skin.  However, some patients still find it difficult to over-come the deep seeded emotional scars that acne leaves behind.

Acne can have a devastating effect on a teen’s self-esteem and body image. Has your teen become withdrawn, refused to go to school or a social event because of their acne?  Acne can abruptly turn a self-assured, social butterfly into a self-conscious recluse.  This type of emotional distress can be prevented or at least minimized with immediate treatment for their acne.

The treatment for acne can be as complex as the condition itself because acne comes in different forms with many treatment options. To make it as simple as possible, if your teen has mild acne (black heads and white head without pustules) over-the-counter topical solutions like Benzoyl Peroxide or salicylic acid may be all it takes to put a smile back on their face. In some instances, they may need a medical-grade strength at-home skincare regimen such as Castillo MD Skin Science along with the addition of chemical peels, laser light treatments, Acne facials or microdermabrasion may also be effective. If your child has moderate to severe acne, don’t wait, seek medical treatment.  Your doctor can help control the out-breaks with education, oral and/or topical prescription medications. If your child is experiencing deep pustules, red, inflamed skin, cystic acne, or is beginning to scar, a more aggressive treatment such as Accutane (isotretinoin) may be required.

It is important to acknowledge the psychological effects that some teens develop when suffering from acne.  If you notice that your teen is avoiding friends and social situations, the support of a mental health professional may also be needed to assure they have the coping tools to maintain a healthy self-image during this stressful time.

Talk with your teen about the idea that acne treatments are preventative in nature.  This means that the treatment is not meant to clear the present acne but is used to prevent future acne break-outs and inflammation. Most treatments will take a few months to become effective. Encourage your teen continue faithfully with their treatment regimen even though they feel like it is not working.  They are likely to become frustrated at times until they see the results of their dedication has finally paid off.

Roxanne Hammond, RMA
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
Become a Facebook Fan of CPS @  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cosmetic-Plastic-Surgery/65943304419
https://www.cosmeticplasticsurgery.com
800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

Roxanne Hammond

Skin Care & Laser Specialist for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

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Posted in Non-Surgical Treatments, Skincare & Aging | 106 Comments »