Grape Seed Extract: Probably the most widely and longest studied botanical is the Vitis Vinifera. Provides anti-inflammatory properties, help prevent skin aging, savenge radical oxygen species and inhibit UV radiation-induced damage. Proanthocyanidins – a group of polyphenolic bioflavonoids found in grape seeds and their stem ells are responsible for its powerful antioxidant effect and its anti-tumor activity.

Growth Factors: A naturally occurring substance capable of stimulating celluar growth and proliferation. Medical studies indicate that Growth Factors are unparalleled in enhancing dynamic and rapid cell activity!

L-ascorbic acid: is a water-soluble antioxidant that is also highly susceptible to oxidation. Although water-based vitamin C topical products can be effective, their shelf life is typicaly not more than one year. This important melanogenesis-inhibiting, collagen-building anti-inflammatory vitamin is best delievered to the skin in an ahhydrous base.

Stem cells: The role of cutaneous stem cells is to replenish skin as it undergoes normal function and wound repair. The majority of these cells reside in the basal layer of the epidermis. When a stem cell divides, the daughter cells have the potential to either remin a stem cell, like the parent cell or to differentiate into cells with a more specialized function, known as progenitor clells.

The bulk of research has been focused on three rich sources: phtyo stems cells: grape, lilac and swiss apple.

Oscillating current promotes the cell renewal process. It does this by enhancing blood circulation, increasing collagen and elastin production, gently cleansing the skin of harmful toxins and acne-causing bacteria, encouraging lymphatic drainage and gently exfoliating away dead skin cells. With continued use, the result is clearer, softer, firmer, brighter, more vibrant looking skin!

An essential technology used by professionals worldwide. It is so widely used due to its ability to purify, stimulate and rejuvenate the skin and is a safe and gentle alternative to expensive and risky plastic surgery procedures, laser resurfacing, chemical peels, collagen and Botox injections and in the case of acne treatment, less desirable treatments such as prescription medications and harsh topicals.

Designed to treat a multitude of skin concerns. High frequency is a highly beneficial treatment intended to improve everything from acne to wrinkles and it is appropriate for many different skin types.

Available at Pristine Clinical Skin Care (831) 462-2690

Ultra Sonic Facial!

Rejuvenate Your Skin with the Ultrasonic Facial!

The classic European facial has helped clear the pores and refine the skin of millions of women (and men) the world over. If you’re ready to take your monthly facial to the next level, consider the ultrasonic facial.

Using a machine that emits high-frequency sonic waves, ultrasonic facial treatments cleanse, repair and stimulate the skin. The ultrasonic facial is a medically proven treatment that uses ultrasound to loosen and remove dead skin cells and restores the natural electrical charge to cells. The process is safe: it doesn`t use crystals or chemicals and is perfect for sensitive, sun-damaged, acneic and acne prone skin types.

What is an Ultrasonic Facial?

This high-tech facial uses a specialized ultrasonic/ultrasound machine that emits high-frequency waves. Ultrasonic treatments benefit a variety of skin types and can improve many common skin conditions. Your esthetician will customize your ultrasonic facial according to your skin type and skincare needs.

In a treatment, the ultrasonic machine’s high-frequency waves work to:

·           Exfoliate dead skin cells for clear and radiant skin without the redness and irritation that can sometimes result from Microdermabrasion or AHA peels.

·           Loosen and remove oil, dirt and sebum from the pores and hair follicles, resulting in less blackheads and breakouts. Ultrasonic frequency zaps bacteria and decongests the pores. The result? Clear, healthy skin with noticeably tighter pores.

·           Gently stimulates skin to encourage collagen and elastin production. With a series of treatments, fine lines and wrinkles are less noticeable and skin color, tone and texture becomes more even and uniform.

·           Stimulates blood flow and lymphatic drainage through the combination of ultrasound and electrical therapy. This nourishes the skin and gives it a youthful rosy glow.

·           Facilitates hydration and plumps the skin, thereby filling out fine lines and wrinkles.

·           Helps skincare products do their job by penetrating deeper into the skin. This is especially true for anti-aging and antioxidant serums, creams and masks. Unless an active product is pushed deep into the lower levels of the epidermis, it won’t have a lasting, anti-aging impact on the skin. Safe for most people: The sonic waves emitted by the ultrasound machine aren’t harmful to your health.

However,  if you have an autoimmune disorder, a diagnosed heart disorder or cancer, it’s best to skip the ultrasonic treatment. Anyone living with a chronic health condition should check with his or her physician before proceeding with any aesthetic treatment.

The ultrasonic facial is gentle, non-invasive suitable for most skin types, from acne to rosacea and sun-damaged skin. Because the ultrasonic mechanism is so effective at cleaning clogged pores, painful extractions are unnecessary. Your skin will have that lit-from-within glow—making it the perfect treatment to indulge in before a big event. Once your skin is rejuvenated and healthy looking, maintain your results with monthly ultrasonic facials.

Now Available at Pristine Clincial Skin Care – (831) 462-2690

SKIN INC-JULY 2011

By Rob and Carol S. Trow

In earlier days, skin care products were selected by features and benefits that were blasted from ads and labels, using words such as “softens,” “moisturizes,” “smells wonderful” or “provides instant anti-aging remedies.” Individuals were more concerned about how products felt and smelled than what they could actually do for their skin. Now the ingredients in home care and professional products can determine whether an item is appropriate for use in targeted professional treatments and in home skin care protocols. Serious, results-oriented estheticians needs to know each ingredient in the lines they offer, as well as what they do, when each is appropriate or inappropriate for a client, and how to use and recommend them. The following ingredients are critical to any anti-aging treatment plan and home care recommendation.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are molecules that can safely terminate the oxidation chain reaction before cells are badly damaged. They neutralize free radicals turned loose by the sun’s UVA rays by donating one of their electrons to each, transforming them into non damaging molecules. This activity is usually known as free radical scavenging by skin care professionals. Antioxidants help prevent tissue damage that could potentially lead to aging and disease. They are important for repairing photodamage and providing protection, but do not block UVB rays and, in and of themselves, don’t repair wrinkles. Ample amounts of antioxidants must be formulated into anti-aging products or the aging process will always outpace the corrective treatments. They are prevention-oriented, as well as treatment-oriented ingredients.

Current literature is replete with news about the “best” antioxidants. It seems that every month a new hot, important, best, most effective antioxidant is discovered. However, the best is actually not one single antioxidant, but rather products that contain a group of them, such as pomegranate, coffee berry, lycopene, grape extracts, idebenone and others. These have withstood both the test of time, as well as scrutiny by reputable medical journals and independent university research studies. Currently, the most important vitamin antioxidants in treatments are vitamins A, C, E and beta-carotene.

Vitamin A. Otherwise known as retinoids, vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is not present in the body. It is important not only to general health systems, but also for the skin, due to its role in the normal differentiation and proliferation of cells. Therefore, it must be added to the human diet for systemic health through the ingestion of fish liver oils, egg yolk, milk, liver and various vegetables. Also, vitamin A should be applied topically in order to perform its essential purposes. The sun depletes the skin of vitamin A, and this is one of the reasons those who expose their skin often to the sun age faster than those who do not. Every good skin care system has a vitamin A product due to its significance in preventing and healing sun damage. Vitamin A is the single most important ingredient to prevent, restore, normalize and help repair damaged skin. This should not be news to any in the skin care profession, because the efficacious effects of vitamin A are well known.

The formulation of vitamin A in a line, as well as the form of the base ingredient, is very important to the stability of the product. New technology has allowed vitamin A to meet its potential for performance in topical products in the forms of retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate and retinol, along with the more traditional prescription form, retinoic acid. The dosage is initially low, and it should be applied three or four times a week.

Vitamin E. Although vitamin E is a highly effective oil-soluble antioxidant that protects collagen from destruction by UV rays, it is extremely sensitive to damage and inactivation when exposed to free radicals. One of the important roles of its sister, vitamin C, is to reactivate it to its original form, enabling it to work against free radicals. Vitamins C and E are intertwined in their activity and are important teammates in protecting and treating the skin from sun damage.

Vitamin C. This water-soluble vitamin antioxidant, aside from its role in reactivating vitamin E, is important for protecting the lipid structures of cells, preventing the oxidation of vitamin A, and is an effective tyrosinase inhibitor, preventing hyperpigmentation by slowing down the production of melanin. Vitamin C is a normal component in the skin, but is utilized first for other bodily functions and is not produced by the body, so the skin is vulnerable to deficiency. It must be included in diet, in supplement, and in topical products for the skin. There are several forms of vitamin C, including L-ascorbic acid, which has the appearance of water. To be its best, it should be mixed just before it is used because it loses some of its effectiveness as it oxidizes, and turns amber or orange. A newer, effective form of vitamin C is ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, a fat-soluble, stable and more penetrating form.

Other important antioxidants. Other important antioxidants in formulations are beta-carotene—a precursor to vitamin A—selenium, superoxide dysmutase and alpha lipoic acid (thiotic acid), all proven soldiers in the fight against aging. These ingredients are important to anti-aging, and their roles and benefits warrant study by skin care providers.

Exfoliants

Exfoliants are believed by many to be a necessary component to maintain skin’s health. However, it is important to remember that the horny layer of the skin must be thick and compact because it provides important protection against the environment and best exfoliates naturally. On the other hand, belated exfoliation creates hyperkeratotic conditions, prevents ingredient penetration and results in dull skin with poor texture and an aged appearance. The best policy is a compromise by using mild resurfacing to create a natural, healthy exfoliation that removes only excess cells while balancing the health of the skin with topical and professional regimens.

Glycolic vs. lactic acid. Lately, there’s a new sheriff in Hydroxyville. Many experts, including the authors, are taking a second look at the use of glycolic acid for exfoliating peels. More and more skin care experts are advocating the use of lactic acid instead. When administered properly, lactic acid peels are gentle, but highly effective. A comparison of glycolic and lactic acids will tell the story: Glycolic acid has smaller molecules than lactic acid. A good thing? Not really.
Because of this small molecular size, glycolic acid penetrates more quickly than lactic acid, making it more difficult to control. Lactic acid lays on the skin’s surface for a longer period of time, allowing it to work more extensively on the epidermis, which allows the skin’s responses to be gentler. A slower response allows more effective neutralization, producing less damage. The skin is a natural protection against environmental damage and it is crucial to be extremely careful about how it is exfoliated—less is more.
Lactic acid’s longer activity on the epidermis allows for enhanced softening of the surface skin and less damage to the dermis. It can be used on a wider range of Fitzpatrick Skin Types, with lower incidences of stinging and hyperpigmentation. The overall and anti-aging results of treatment series by lactic and glycolic acid are similar. For that reason, lactic acid should be considered for use during resurfacing treatments.

Peptides
Peptides are one of the newest ingredient groups to hit the anti-aging skin care scene and are stimulating many studies that have shown significant results. They are highly respected for their ability to penetrate the skin and activate their target, increasing the production of collagen and elastin. Although long-chain proteins cannot penetrate the epidermis due to molecular size, peptides can. They are proteins that are synthesized to their most useable form in order to affect the dermal layer. Peptides are molecules that have been built up from smaller protein molecules—amino acids—by binding one amino acid to another, forming a short, penetrable chain. In this form, they are highly efficient in stimulating the healing process and triggering the rebuilding of the dermal matrix.
They turn on the fibroblasts responsible for these activities, acting as keys to the biochemical pathways. This starts the chain reaction for building and repairing the dermis—the basic requirements for anti-aging success.

Growth factors
Growth factors are proven to enhance epidermal growth and keratinization; they directly stimulate the proliferation of epidermal cells through a response by receptors on the cell membrane. This initiates activities that eventually progress to cell division and proliferation. The problem for women is that epidermal growth factors (EGF) are androgen-dependent, and the low level of androgen
in females results in a lack of EGF, potentially allowing skin to age more quickly. Concurrently, EGF acts as a
super-antioxidant, and also resolves inflammation, making it an important tool in the esthetician’s toolbox of product ingredients.

Results-oriented rejuvenation
These ingredients are the must-haves in a results-oriented anti-aging product line, and are the tried and true basics to successful rejuvenation. Those who choose product lines must take care to not be swayed by the hottest, newest ingredients that hit the market and leave these behind. Watch them, look for studies and proof, then try them. You can look back at those that were popular last year or the year before, noting that they are off the hot list now. Instead, know that reliability is the key, scientific studies are of utmost importance, and formulation and packaging are the answers. The anti-aging attack is focused on a team of reliable and stable formulations of established and trusted ingredients in a well-designed treatment plan. Those mentioned are synergistic components in the battle, and their effectiveness has a long history of study and proof on which to rely.
Success in rejuvenation is the result of well-chosen professional and home care products that work through needs-based plans with very important synergy.

For a FREE consultation mention my website  and  call Sharon Williams at (831) 462-2690

Mandelic Arginine Serum

Mandelic Arginine Serum

DESCRIPTION

Mandelic Arginine Serum is a gentle rejuvenating and healing formula with natural antioxidant benefits. Arginine (L), one of the 20 main amino acids, accelerates wound healing, promotes collagen synthesis and increases skin elasticity while Mandelic Acid, with a pH of 3.4, is found in almonds  and strong enough for mild exfoliation. It has long been used as an antiseptic because of its antibacterial activity.  Studies suggest it could be beneficial in the treatment of skin problems such as photoaging, irregular pigmentation, and acne.

SKIN TYPE

All Skin Types - Reactive, Impure, Pigmented, Rosacea

RECOMMENDED USE

Apply to skin nightly after thorough cleansing. May be used during the day. Layer over Blemish Serum for acne conditions or under Organic A Complex for photo-aged skin.

INGREDIENTS

Aqua (Water), Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Alcohol Denatured, Glycerin, L-Arginine, L-Mandelic Acid, Phytic Acid, Pyruvic Acid, Methylcellulose, Citric Acid

To purchase this product call Pristine Clinical Skin Care @ (831) 462-2690

Water for the skin

Cucumber Spritz

DESCRIPTION

Cucumber Spritz is an all-natural face and body spray that gives skin a drink of water. Moisture-binding PCA nutrients freshen and revitalize skin; the combination of heavy water and other humectants provide the skin with the much needed moisture content that is lost daily. The perfect travel companion.

SKIN TYPE

All Skin Types - Water Deprived Skin

RECOMMENDED USE

Spray skin with Cucumber Spritz after a thorough cleansing for added moisture and then apply the appropriate moisturizer, protection, and foundation. Spray the skin after make-up application to give the skin a moist, dewy appearance. Keep in refrigerator for cool splash after activities and carry on the airplane to replace lost hydration.

To purchase this product – Call (831) 462-2690

Pristine Clinical Skin Care

As you may be aware, the FDA just this week announced new regulations that purport to enhance sunscreen efficacy and make it easier for consumers to navigate the confusing labeling system currently in place. Still, with changes in sunscreen regulations constantly coming down the pipeline, it’s important for us to educate our clients on proper skin protection.

There is a lot of misinformation circulating about the various sunscreen ingredients – mineral vs. chemical – and what constitutes adequate protection. Consumers need to know about the dangers of chemical blockers and what natural alternatives are available, such as Zinc Oxide. If you’re not up-to-speed on this wonder ingredient, read on.

What It Is
Zinc Oxide (ZnO) is an inorganic compound that typically appears as a white powder, nearly insoluble in water. The natural mineral form comes from the Earth’s crust, but it can also be produced synthetically.

While it has almost countless uses (it serves as an additive in ceramics, glass, plastics, cement, pigments, food, and the list goes on), aesthetically it has been used as an alternative topical for hundreds of years for its non-irritating characteristics. Even today it is used to in baby powder, calamine cream and antiseptic ointments to treat various skin conditions. In our work, we may most commonly see zinc in sunscreen formulas, because it makes for a superb broad-spectrum blocker. Zinc is also an essential mineral for our bodies, and plays an important role in cell production, promotes healthy skin and hair, and boosts the immune system.

How It Works
Zinc works by forming a protective physical barrier over the skin to block the sun’s rays – actually working as a natural reflective shield. This powerful mineral provides broad spectrum protection, which in turn reduces UVA-induced free-radical production in the deeper layers of the skin.

Why is zinc such a great protector? Unlike the chemical agents commonly used in mainstream sunscreen formulas, zinc oxide is not absorbed by the skin; rather it sits on the skin’s surface, blocking both UVA and UVB rays, and as I mentioned it is also non-irritating and non-allergenic. Many of the chemicals used in today’s sunscreens permeate the skin and have been linked to a number of side effects and the proliferation of cancerous cells.

Where to Find It
All of our sunscreen formulas are mineral-based – using zinc oxide. Though zinc sunscreen formulas have commonly been associated with the chalky, paste-like creams that leave a messy residue, we’ve uncovered new ways of using the mineral that allows for a transparent dispersion.

All of the sunscreens can also be blended with other formulas to create any desired consistency or result. For instance, to eliminate dryness or create a creamier feel, blend the Daytime Defense SPF 30 or eZinc Protection Creamwith a dab of the Moisture Au Lait, Amino Peptide Moisturizer, Exotica Rhodiola Cream, or your favorite moisturizer.  By Rhonda Allison

Products available at Pristine Clinical Skin Care – (831) 462-2690

Apple Wine Peel - Before and After

These are just a few of the peels we feature at Pristine Clinical Skin Care. If you would like more information regarding what peel is right for you Call Sharon @ (462) 462-2690

Apple Wine Peel – Progressive

Fitzpatrick I to Fitzpatrick III.  It utilizes similar acids from wine and includes an enzyme and TCA.

Goals: Rejuvenate, minimize lines and wrinkles and improve tone and texture.  Regenerate, Stimulate collagen production resulting in a hydrated, healthier, more vibrant skin.

Kojic Clay Peel- Before and After

Kojic Clay Peel

Fitzpatrick I to Fitzpatrick VI.  With minimal layering, this peel is great for most any skin type.

Goals: Brighten and lighten the skin. Smooth coarse texture. Soften and minimize lines.Increase cellular production. Support the strengthening and integrity of the skin by increasing collagen and elastin.

Hibiscus Flower Acid Peel

Offering a new age for the skin, the Hibiscus Flower Acid Peel blends the next generation of  AHAs with an enhanced Azelaic Mandelic Complex, toinduce cell turnover for renewed, freshened skin.  Helping to smooth and even skin tone and balance oil production, this healing treatment provides more hydration than lactic acid while offering strong lightening benefits.  Enhanced even more with phytic and  pyruvic acid, this soothing peel stimulates collagen activity, provides antioxidant benefits, gives extra support for acne, impure skin conditions, and is great for those with rosacea, sensitive skin.

Baby Boomer Complexion Peel

These are a range of specific peelings for improvement of skin discoloration, fine lines, coarse texture, enlarged pores, and dull, lifeless skin.  The appropriate preparation is selected, pre and post care is determined, and a follow-up skin treatment is required.  Skin will experience aggressive exfoliation for at least one week and the appearance of skin will continue to improve over the next several weeks.

The above Peels may be repeated every 4-6 weeks. and much more!

“Just had a skin peel with Sharon and wow!  She had a good sense for what my skin needs were from my very first visit– delivered some fantastic results. Lots of compliments from friends and loved ones. They definitely noticed the difference. Pleased with my radiant skin. I’m going back…

-Daine W, Santa Cruz

Women having a professional treatment

Skin Care | Seven reasons you should get professional facials

By CASSANDRA LANNING

1. Analysis by a trained professional

A university study shows that more than 60 percent of people define their skin types and home care incorrectly. A skin care professional is trained in skin analysis and in providing this information to you correctly.

2. Professional extraction, when needed

Acne and breakouts can be spread, and scarring caused, by picking. A professional is trained to perform this service when needed in the least invasive, though effective manner. The skin is prepped with products that ease the procedure, and then the professional performs the extraction safely, with great results.

3. Deep cleansing of the skin by a professional

Cleansing the skin of dirt, debris and environmental factors can allow your skin to maintain a healthy balance and enhance its ability to fight off disease and aging. It can also enable the skin to better utilize the products that you apply for nourishment, protection and exfoliation.

4. Deeper penetration of products through the benefits of professional facial massage

Professional facial massage techniques warm the skin, thus opening the pores to allow deeper penetration of products.

Warmth resulting from professional facial massage also dilates the vascular system, encouraging it to bring nutrients and moisture to the deeper layers of the skin and to remove toxins produced during normal metabolism. This stimulation also brings a healthy glow to the skin that only a professional facial massage can produce.

5. Professional recommendation

Skin care professionals are trained to recommend appropriate professional services that will meet your treatment needs. The professional can also recommend the correct home care program to enable you to meet your goals for your skin.

6. Professional products

The treatment-level products used by your skin care professional produce enhanced results in your treatment. Also, the professional-level home care product recommended by your skin care specialist will maintain and improve the condition of your skin between services.

You will be educated on the benefits of each treatment, on the benefits of home care products and on how to use them correctly for achieving your skin care goals.

7. Pampering by the professional

Facial professionals can de-stress even the tensest person, leaving him or her relaxed and rejuvenated after the treatment. An added and highly recommended bonus to the facial treatment!

Thank you Cassandra Lanning for the great information- You can reach her at www.thebathery.com

Schedule your appointment with Sharon D. Williams at (831) 462-2690 Pristine Clinical Skin Care