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How Should I Care For My Skin After My Chemical Peel?

Wednesday, November 24th, 2021

CHEMICAL PEEL POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS: 

Proper maintenance of your skin after a chemical peel will facilitate and enhance your rejuvenation process. It is important that you follow a few easy steps to achieve the maximum benefit from your peel.

What To Expect:

You will receive written instructions and a post-peel skincare kit with all the products you will need to care for your skin following your peel. During your recovery period, we request that you use only the products provided in your kit unless instructed otherwise. These products will keep your skin hydrated, protected and nourished.

For the first few days after your peel, your skin will look normal with some possible redness similar to a sunburn. In approximately 48 hours, your skin may feel tight and will begin to flake or peel.  Some patients will peel mildly while others will peel more dramatically.

It is important not to pick at your skin, which could potentially introduce bacteria, or cause scarring. Do not attempt to help the skin peel off.  Let this process occur naturally to avoid exposing immature skin and irritation.

Avoid strenuous exercise for 2-3 days after your peel as sweat my cause irritation or burning.

SUN BURN ALERT: The peel solution contains a blend of ingredients that may increase your skin’s sensitivity level to the sun, especially for the first TWO weeks following your peel. Please use the medical-grade, UVA/UVB broad-spectrum sunscreen provided in your post-peel kit (Castillo MD Skin Science Sun Defense SPF 45).

Post-Peel Instructions:

A.M.  Regimen for the first 48 hours (or until you begin to peel):

  1. Apply Castillo MD Skin Science Gentle Cleanser using a facial cleansing sponge to cleanse in a circular motion. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. Apply the selected Castillo MD Skin Science moisturizer provided in your kit and re-apply liberally as needed to maintain well hydrated skin.
  3. Apply medical grade sunscreen liberally and re-apply as needed.
  4. Avoid sun exposure.

P.M.  Regimen for the first 48 hours (or until you begin to peel):

  1. Apply the Castillo MD Skin Science Gentle Cleanser using a sponge to cleanse in a circular motion. Rinse and Pat dry.
  2. Apply the Castillo MD Skin Science moisturizer provided in your kit. Re-apply as needed to maintain well hydrated skin. moisturizer provided in your kit. Re-apply as needed to maintain well hydrated skin.

A.M Regimen days 3-7 (or until peeling has ceased)

  1. Apply the Castillo MD Skin Science Gentle Cleanser using a sponge to cleanse in a circular motion. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. Liberally apply the Castillo MD Skin Science moisturizer provided in your kit. Re-apply as needed to maintain well hydrated skin. Frequent applications of this emollient moisturizer will keep your skin feeling and looking better.
  3. Apply medical grade sunscreen liberally and avoid sun exposure.

P.M Regimen days 3-7 (or until peeling has deceased)

  1. Apply the Castillo MD Skin Science Gentle Cleanser using a sponge to cleanse in a circular motion. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. Liberally apply the Castillo MD Skin Science moisturizer provided in your kit. Re-apply as needed to maintain well hydrated skin. Frequent applications of this emollient moisturizer will keep your skin feeling and looking better.

To extend the life of your beautiful results, I recommend beginning a medical-grade skincare program designed specifically for your skin needs.

 

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)

 

 

Want To Know What To Expect During Your Comprehensive Microdermabrasion Consultation?

Wednesday, February 12th, 2020

When you arrive to your consultation, you will be greeted by our patient coordinator and asked to fill out a brief form regarding your skin.  It will cover topics such as your skin type, current medications, allergies or sensitivities, past skin treatment history, and your current skincare regimen.

Then you will meet with me for a full skin evaluation. We will discuss your skincare concerns, current regimen and your goals.  We will then determine whether or not you are a good candidate for microdermabrasion.  Microdermabrasion is often a good choice for those with minimal to moderate aging changes, rough texture, lines, blotchy skin tones, or minimal acne scarring, for those who want improvements in the way their skin looks and feels but do not want a more invasive treatment or those who have a busy schedule that does not allow for down time, and for those want to maintain their skin after having a surgical and laser procedure.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  We want you to have all the information you need to make an educated decision. Once the evaluation is completed, if microdermabrasion is not an appropriate treatment option for you, other treatment alternatives may be recommended instead.

If it is determined that you are a good candidate for microdermabrasion, we will review the benefits, risks, expected out-come and contra-indications.  Should you decide to move forward, we will create a treatment plan. The plan will include the number of treatments anticipated and how far apart you should schedule each treatment.  You will also leave with a formal, written cost quotation.

We will also discuss your current at home skincare regimen, if you have one.  We will look at which ones will enhance your results and which ones we may want to discontinue.  Maximum results are obtained by consistently and simultaneously participating in an at-home medical grade skincare program.

What To Expect During Your Microdermabrasion Treatment:

Your appointment will last 35-45 minutes. We will begin by reviewing the condition of your skin, any changes since your consultation and your at-home skincare program if you have already begun one.

We will begin treatment by cleansing your face. I will then physically exfoliate your skin with the diamond-tome wand.  As we progress further into your treatment plan, we may increase the abrasiveness of the exfoliating tip as your skin dictates. This is followed by a glycolic application.  You can expect some light tingling for 1-2 minutes. Then we finally reach everyone’s favorite part…the soothing oxygen-nutrient facial mist!  The treatment ends with an application of Dr. Castillo’s premier line of medical grade skincare products and mini-facial massage. You will leave the office feeling relaxing, refreshing and ready to face the world!

Depending on your treatment plan, you are likely to schedule the first 3-6 treatments 2 weeks apart if this is your first experience with microdermabrasion.  Our maintenance or monthly club members are more likely to seek treatment every 4-6 weeks.

Working as a team is the best way to support your results.  I am available to answer questions, deliver information and education as it pertains to your goals. I will routinely review and evaluate your treatment plan and perform effective, thorough in-office treatments.  Keeping your regularly scheduled appointments, consistently following an at-home skincare product regimen and limiting unprotected sun exposure will assure that we are both investing in the same goal of obtaining the best outcome possible.

Does It Hurt?

The old saying “no pain, no gain” does NOT apply here.  There is no pain involved in Diamond -tip type microdermabrasion.  You can feel a slight tugging of the skin due to suction, with abrasiveness similar to a buff puff.  You can feel a light tingle during the glycolic application and just might fall asleep during the mini facial massage.

What To Expect After Your Microdermabrasion Treatment:

Click here to learn more about BOTOX® in Illinois.

There is no-downtime after microdermabrasion. You will immediately notice that your skin feels smoother and looks refreshed. You may experience slight flushing of the skin for 10-30 minutes post treatment. As we increase the level of abrasiveness in future appointments, it can occasionally result in small cat-like scratches that will resolve quickly. Microdermabrasion is a quantitative procedure.  This means you will see more results after each treatment.

You can apply make-up and carry-out all of your normal activities immediately following your treatment. Microdermabrasion, like any exfoliating treatment will make your skin more sun sensitive for a few weeks.  Be sure to apply the recommended medical-grade, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen daily.

 

Roxanne Grace Hammond
Skincare & Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY http://www.cosmeticplasticsurgery.com

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

 

 

 

Ask Our Expert: What is the best type of sunscreen?

Wednesday, August 22nd, 2018

 

Q: What is the best type of sunscreen?

A: Historically, it has been shown that physical sunscreens provide the best protection against both UVA & UVB radiation and are less likely to cause skin irritation.  Dr. Castillo, cosmetic surgery and anti-aging expert  recommends medical-grade, physical sunscreens to all his patients.

There are two divisions of sunscreen ingredients; physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens reflect the UV radiation while chemical sunscreens absorb the UV radiation and break it down within the skin. Some sunscreens contain both a physical and a chemical component.

There are two types of physical sunscreens available; zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Both provide broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Today, these ingredients can be found in finely micronized, nano-sphere  form which allows for ease of daily use. Not only does zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide needed broad-spectrum coverage but they are also beneficial to those who have sensitive skin or are irritated by chemical ingredients.

You will typically find multiple active ingredients listed in chemical sunscreen.  Each chemical ingredient protects only against a specific portion of the UV spectrum. Be aware that at this time many over-the-counter sunscreens protect against UVB rays only, although there are a few chemical ingredients like Oxybenzone that do offer UVA/UVB protection. Therefore, when purchasing over the counter sunscreen, it is important to examine the label for the claim “broad-spectrum.”  Also look for a sunscreen that says “very water resistant.”  However, keep in mind that even the best water resistant sunscreens can only protect you for 80 minutes.  Then you will need to re-apply.

With inconsistent OTC product labels and the idea that active ingredients in sunscreens differ from manufacturer to manufacturer it can be difficult to decipher all of them so I have provided at chart of the more common ingredients found in sunscreens.  When in doubt whether a sunscreen will effectively protect you and your family, I recommend selecting a medical grade sunscreen from your local cosmetic surgeon, plastic surgeon or dermatologist. Our patient’s favorite sunscreens are:

Physical Defense by Castillo MD Skin Science,  is a chemical-free, pure physical broad-spectrum medical-grade sunscreen making it perfect for even oily and acne skin types! It offers superior protection due to it’s high percentage of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide.

Sun Defense by Castillo MD Skin Science, which offers medical grade 12% Zinc Oxide, 7.5% Octinoxate broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection

Prime Defense by Castillo MD Skin Science, which offers 10% Titanium Dioxide, 4% Zinc Oxide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with an added skin primer.

Body Guard is a medical-grade, body mist sunscreen, making it perfect for those on the go or chasing after little ones.

Chemical & physical ingredients found in sunscreens.

Ingredient:                                            Ray Type:

Avobenzone UVA
Dioxybenzone UVA/ UVB
Homosalate UVB
Octocrylene UVB
Octyl methoxycinnamate UVB
Octisalate UVB
Oxybenzone UVA/ UVB
Padimate O UVB
Mexoryl UVA/UVB
Titanium dioxide UVA/UVB     broad spectrum
Trolamine salicylate UVB
Zinc oxide UVA/UVB     broad spectrum

WARNING: You must actually apply the sunscreen to your skin – just purchasing it will not provide sufficient protection! lol

 

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)

Ask Our Expert: Absolutely Everything You Need To Kow About Retin-A Skincare

Friday, July 20th, 2018

RetinA postQ:   My dermatologists gave me a prescription for Retin-A, but after a few days my skin became very red and irritated.   My Doctor explained that several weeks of skin irritation is often just par for the course when using Retin-A.  He asked me to try applying it every other night instead of every night, to be patient and that eventually the irritation would resolve itself.  I stopped using the Retin-A because the irritation was worse than my aging skin.   Is there anything else I can do?

A:  I am happy to report – YES!  Our patients have found success with a few simple adjustments to the way they apply their Retin-A, Renova, Tretinion, etc.

1.  After you cleanse your face, pat it dry and wait at least 15 minutes (to assure your skin is completely dry) before applying your Retin-A.

2. Apply a pea size amount.  This is typically all you need for the entire face. Remember that more is not better in this case. 

3. Avoid combining other exfoliating or skin regenerating products like glycolic acids, with Retin-A, at least until your skin is able to easily tolerate the Retin-A.

4. Always apply a moisturizer on top of your Retin-A.  This is a very important step in the success of your regimen so resist skipping it. (If you find that you are still experiencing dry, irritated skin after trying all of the suggestions here,  you can try mixing your moisturizer and Retin-A together as this will reduce its potency. )

5. Begin applying your Retin-A every third night.  As your skin tolerates the Retin-A, increase use to every other night, then every night.

6. Remember that Retin-A and like products will cause increased sensitivity to the sun.  Therefore Retin-A should only be applied at night only, never during the day.  Wear a medical grade broad-spectrum suncreen every day, re-apply the sunscreen when needed and avoid excessive sun exposure.

If despite all of the above suggestions, you find that you are still unable to tolerate Retin-A, you may want to consider medical microdermabrasion.  It is a pain-free, even relaxing way to keep your skin well exfoliated and looking fresh.  For more information on medical microdermabrasion visit Dr. Castillo’s website.

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)

 

 

 

 

Not All Sunscreens Are Created Equal: New Complete Guide On How To Pick A New Favorite

Friday, August 25th, 2017

NOT ALL SUNSCREENS ARE CREATED EQUAL

Today, most of us are aware that we need to apply sunscreen when we are headed to the beach or going to be outside for an extended period of time on a hot July day but have you considered the effects of incidental sun exposure?

The principal reason our skin ages is not our age itself, but rather recurring sun exposure from birth onward. Studies indicate that approximately 80% of our lifetime sun exposure comes from incidental sun exposure, not from a day at the beach. Incidental sun exposure refers to the UV exposure you get while walking your dog, walking to your car, sitting in front of a window in your home or a restaurant, driving to work, etc.

While there is no question that you need to apply and re-apply sunscreen when you are at the beach, it’s also failing to apply a sufficient amount of “proven-effective” broad-spectrum UVA / UVB sunscreen 365 days per year that will speed up your aging process and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. So if you are concerned about looking younger longer, protecting yourself from incidental sun exposure is paramount.

The difficult part of choosing a sunscreen is knowing which ones really offer you the protection you need. Not all sunscreens are created equal.  Some sunscreens offer broad-spectrum protection, while some do not. Some sunscreens are considered physical sunscreens (our preference) and some are considered chemical sunscreens.  More-importantly, some sunscreens are “medical-grade” and must be FDA regulated to prove it’s effectiveness, strength, ingredient content and stability while OTC sunscreens do not have to be regulated.  Chemical sunscreens can cause irritation or stinging when applied to sensitive skin types while physical sunscreens will not.

Sunscreens work by either using titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to physically reflect the sun’s rays or by use of absorbent ingredients referred to as chemical sunscreens, which absorb and break down the UV radiation. Some sunscreens use a combination of both. When choosing a sunscreen, there are some very important elements to look for. Look for labels that say “broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection” and check the ingredient label to make sure it contains micronized zinc oxide and / or titanium dioxide at sufficient levels.   For example, Physical Defense Sunscreen by Castillo MD Skin Science contains 10% Zinc Oxide and 5.5% Titanium Dioxide and Sun Defense Sunscreen contains 12% Zinc Oxide and 7.5% Octinoxate.

For years the media has drilled the importance of “SPF” into our heads.  It is used on labels with cosmetics, moisturizers and sunscreens, but gives us a false sense of protection. SPF (sun protection factor) actually refers only to UVB, a shallow ray that causes skin burns / tans & skin cancer. It is of great importance that we are protected from daily UVA exposure as well. UVA rays are deeper penetrating rays known as “the aging rays.” They are responsible for pre-mature photo-aging and hyperpigmentation, along with some skin cancers.

At Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, we recommend using a medical-grade physical sunscreens rather than chemical sunscreens for optimal protection. I prefer Physical Defense, Prime Defense or Sun Defense for the face and Body Guard for the body. Theses sunscreens by Castillo MD Skin Science are medical-grade and all contain high levels of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and some contain Octinoxate as well. These medical-grade sunscreens contain important physical (mineral) components we find necessary to provide effective protection:

  1. Finely Micronized Zinc Oxide – 10% -12%
  2. Titanium Dioxide – 5.5% – 8%
  3. Tint (iron oxides) – tinted sunscreen reflects the sun’s powerful rays as an added source of protection.
  4. Antioxidants – to provide future protection against UV and environmental sun damage.
  5. Water resistance (up to 80 minutes). There is no such thing as truly “water-proof,” as all sunscreens will break down within about 80 minutes when exposed to water or perspiration.

I recommend these sunscreens for a few reasons. They are formulated with the highest percentages of Titanium Dioxide and / or Zinc Oxide that I have used to date. I also like that don’t don’t feel like sunscreens. They are not sticky or smelly and actually enhance the appearance of your cosmetics and your bare skin. The cosmetically elegant formulation found in these sunscreens makes them perfect for daily use. Whichever sunscreen you choose, be generous with your applications.  If you are good to your skin, it will be good to you!

DSC_0475

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)

 

 

 

 

 

The New Coca-Cola Tanning Trend – And Why We Don’t Recommend It

Thursday, July 27th, 2017

There is newer trend in tanning appearing on social media that involves putting “Coca-Cola” on the skin as a way to enhance a tan. Quite frankly, I cannot wrap my head around the thinking process or lack there of when it comes to this Cola-Cola” tanning trend. It is beyond comprehension. This is absurd on so many levels, unless of course the objective here is to find the fastest direct route to damaged, sun-burned, wrinkled skin with an increased risk of skin cancer.

First, take a look at this list of Coca-Cola ingredients directly from the Coca-Cola website:

Carbonated WaterHigh Fructose Corn SyrupCaramel Color,

 Phosphoric Acid, Natural FlavorsCaffeine

I guess the thought process here is to use the Carmel Color to stain the skin, giving the appearance of a tan. Believe me, there are definitely better, healthier options out there for achieving a fake bake look from body bronzers to spray tans. Check out my last two blog entries for my latest experience and lessons learned with airbrush spray tanning.

The Phosphoric Acid alone is enough to stamp “recipe for disaster” all over this one! Phosphoric Acid is a corrosive. This means it can remove the enamel off your tooth or polish old metals and coins. And… people want to put this on their skin? Nooo thank you!   Remember even simple exfoliation increases your risk of burning and sun damage when exposed to UV radiation.

Second, Thirty years ago we didn’t have the scientific support to enlighten us about the dangers of UV radiation. People used to apply baby oil and tanning oil and lay out on silver reflectors to get the deepest, darkest tan they could. But, the days of ignorant bliss are over! We now know that ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning beds is a HUMAN carcinogen! Say it with me…, “HUMAN carcinogen!” – That’s bad! Not even a tan can make that look good.

Third, if corrosive material and skin cancer isn’t deterrent enough, then for beauty’s sake, please! There are safe ways to get glowing skin! According the Skin Cancer Foundation, “an estimated 90% of skin aging is caused by sun exposure. “ Going outside unprotected is a sure fire way to develop an earlier onset of wrinkles, lines, rough texture and blotchy skin.

And Fourth, it’s gross! You will be a walking feeding frenzy for flies and other sugar seeking creatures like one of those sticky fly strips… a corroded, wrinkled, walking, sticky fly strip.

I rest my case.

 

Sincerely,

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)

 

 

What To Expect After Level III Traditional CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Friday, August 26th, 2016

Recovering from Level III CO2 Laser Resurfacing can be an exercise in patience and faith; but if you’re concerned by wrinkles, rough texture or acne scars, it can also be one of the most rewarding decisions you will make for yourself. Knowing what to expect in advance is key to having a more peaceful recovery.

Day 1-7

It’s start with most prominent question first –

WILL I BE IN PAIN AFTER MY SURGERY???

This surgery is not particularly “painful.” You will experience a sunburn sensation that comes and goes over the first few days and your skin will be tender to touch. You can expect some swelling as well. With in 7 days, these sensitivities should be resolved.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE FIRST 7 DAYS OF MY RECOVERY?

Once your surgery is complete, you will spend about 1/1/2 hours in the recovery room with your personal recovery staff member (that’s me). You will find yourself in a very comfortable recliner with warm air system to keep you cozy. We will go over your at-home instructions in detail with you and your caregiver and answer any questions you may have.

You will leave Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center in a facial bandage with opening for your eyes, nose and mouth. You will be sent home with a special post-laser ointment. You will apply this ointment to any areas where your skin is not covered by your bandage such as around the lips, nose and eyelids.

24 hours after your surgery you will return to our office to have your bandages removed. We will apply an ointment to your skin and apply a new bandage for another 24 hours.

48 hours after your surgery, you will return to our office for the second post op visit. At this visit Dr. Castillo will remove your bandage permanently. Now that your bandage is off, your main job at home is to keep your skin covered with a special post-laser ointment for the next 5-6 days and of course to avoid ALL sun exposure. We will review your post op instructions again and answer any questions you or your family may have. And remember we are always here if you have a question.

On day 6 or 7, you will return to our office for your third post-op visit. You will be healed at this point but your skin will still be red or pink. But that’s okay… Get ready to feel like a new person!! It’s camouflage day!!!DSC_0465. After visiting with Dr. Castillo, you will be escorted back to our skincare suite – the fun room!!   Here you will meet with me, the skincare and laser specialist at Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center. This is an important step in feeling more like yourself! It’s tough hiding out for a week but by the time you leave the office today you will be ready for a lunch date! You will be amazed at how easy it can be to cover any signs of redness with the proper cosmetics and technique. Don’t worry; we will get you set up with everything you need to look fabulous at your next social event!

DSC_0568During this camouflage appointment, you also learn how to prevent future sun damage and how to properly maintain your new radiant, smooth skin in the short term and in the long term. It will be imperative that you avoid sun exposure for the next 6 months, as your skin will be very sun sensitive. This means we recommend you always use a wide-brim hat, UV protective sunglasses and apply Castillo MD Skin Science Physical Defense, Prime Defense or Sun Defense sunscreen when going outside or traveling in your vehicle. When applying sunscreen, apply one layer, let it dry, then apply an additional layer before going out.

HOW WILL I CARE FOR MY SKIN AT HOME?

Day 7-15:

  1. MORNING –
  • Moisturize: Remove any Elta, Aquaphor or Bacitracin remaining on your skin from the night before.
  • Apply the moisturizer Dr. Castillo has selected for you (Restore or Calmative Cream by CastilloCalmative Cream MD Skin Science). This product is a moisturizer. You will need to re-apply it to the lasered areas a few times during the day to avoid getting dry.
  • Protect: Before going outside or traveling in your vehicle, apply Physical Defense, Prime Defense or Sun Defense Sunscreen, let it dry for 3 minutes, then apply an additional layer.

You will need to re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours if outside or traveling. You will need to apply every 80 minutes if sweating or if your skin becomes wet.

2. NIGHT-

  • Cleanse: Apply Gentle Cleanser by Castillo MD Skin Science to damp skin with your fingers. Then wet your sponge and cleanse in a circular motion, removing any dead skin or yellow/green exudate. Rinse, and pat dry.
  • Moisturize: Apply the ointment Dr. Castillo has selected for you, (Elta, Bacitracin, or Aquaphor) to the lasered areas.

When you are ready, generally within 3-5 weeks, I recommend scheduling a skincare check up with me. This allows us to customize your daily skincare routine to your specific skin needs. From here on out, simple maintenance is key!

DSC_0475Roxanne 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)

WILTED BY WINTER WEATHER ? USEFUL TIPS TO MAINTAIN YOUR GLOWING YOUTHFUL APPEARANCE

Wednesday, November 12th, 2014

You have packed away your flip flops and Daisy Dukes and pulled out your boots, long sweaters, leggings and warm winter coats; but did you remember change up your skincare routine?  This is the time of year when patients flood the skin rejuvenation suite in Dr. Castillo’s Savoy location, desperately looking for solutions to their concerns of suddenly seeing more wrinkles and sagging, dull, flaking, even red and irritated skin. With a few simple changes recommended in their skincare evaluation, they are re-united with the soft, supple skin they work so diligently all year to achieve.

4982The unfavorable changes winter brings is often due to a drop in humidity, not only outdoors but indoors as well.  When we get exposed to the cold, windy, dry air, our first reaction is to rush inside and crank up the thermostat or jump a steaming hot shower. Unfortunately these “feel good” reactions de-hydrate our skin even more, causing our skin to look even more wilted.

Dry, winter weather can really pack a wallop.  Before you know it, dry air and harsh elements can heighten the appearance of wrinkles, and crepiness, flaking and loss of radiance.  Who wants to wake up with these changes right before the holiday gathering season?  Not me!  This calls for some simple changes in your everyday skincare routine to maintain your youthful, supple, radiant appearance.

I recently stayed in a lovely hotel for a few days in one of the more blustery weather states. I woke up after the second night feeling as if my face might actually crack in half.  True statement! My face felt dry, tight, rough, irritated and what’s worse… I looked as if I had aged 10 years over night!  NOT what I was hoping to get out of my vacation!  Well, I decided instantly that I was not going down without a fight! After all, I am a skincare specialist!

I immediately took some successful precautions to help return my skin to its normal condition.

  • I kept my hotel room temperature at 67 degrees – higher temperatures will cause dry skin.
  • Avoided hot showers that feel so good in cold weather – again causes dry skin.
  • Added a humidifier to add moisture to the room
  • Increased my water intake
  • Loaded up on my skin barrier protecting moisturizer
  • Continued to apply my medical grade, broad-spectrum sunscreen. Remember that the combination of winter sun along with snow glare can really damage your skin.

Making an appointment to speak with a trained skincare specialist in your local cosmetic plastic surgeons office will be time well spent.  You will receive information that will be hard to find at your local store counter.  A skincare specialist will be able to analyze your skin, review your current product regimen and suggests the simple adjustments you will need to make to look your best all winter long!

Yours Truly,

Roxanne Hammond, Skincare and Laser Specialist Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center

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)