Sun damage - Part 7

Acne, collagen, Facial Rejuvenation, free radicals, Laser Procedures, Laser Treatments, lunch hour facelift, photoaging, Retinol, skin care, Skin Conditions, Skin Resurfacing, Skin Tightening, SkinCeuticals Skin Care, Sun damage

5 Tips For Healthy & Young Looking Skin- from Dr. Mark Bishara, MD

Skin experts say that the best way to keep your skin healthy and looking young is to protect it from the sun and not smoke: and after that, taking care with how you wash, moisturize your skin and shave also help.
According to a British Association of Dermatologists survey carried out last year, many Britons are unaware that sun protection can keep the skin looking younger, believing instead that applying a daily moisturizer, eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water and having facial massages will suffice.Not only does exposure to UV increase a person’s risk of skin cancer, it also affects the elastin in the skin, which leads to wrinkles and sun-induced skin ageing such as leatheriness and blotchy pigmentation. Featured below are 5 tips for healthy skin:

Tip #1 for healthy skin: Sun protection

Photograph of lady with sun cream on shoulder in shape of sun

Ensure you protect your skin from the sun to maintain healthy skin

Most of the changes seen in ageing skin are actually “caused by a lifetime of sun exposure”.
To protect yourself from the sun, they advise the following three methods (with maximum protection coming from using all three).

Avoid the sun during high intensity hours: the sun’s rays do the most damage between 10 am and 4 pm, so limit the time you spend outside during this period.
Wear protective clothing: wear long sleeved shirts, long trousers or pants and a hat with a wide brim. Remember that tight woven fabric (eg denim) offers better protection than loosely woven fabrics like knits.
Use sunscreen: go for a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) higher than 15 and apply generously about 20 minutes before you go out and then every two hours. You will need to apply more frequently if you go in the water or sweat a lot.

Tip #2 for healthy skin: Don’t smoke (and watch the alcohol)

Research shows that smoking alone ages skin. In a study published in the Archives of Dermatology, researchers described how they examined the upper inner arms of smokers and non-smokers aged from 22 to 91 and found that after taking into account age and other variables, the number of packs of cigarettes that the smokers smoked per day was significantly linked to skin ageing. They looked at the skin on the upper inner arms to minimize the influence of sun exposure.
Smoking reduces the skin’s natural elasticity by promoting the breakdown of collagen and also reducing the amount that is produced.
Collagen, a protein that helps skin strength, gradually degrades with age, leading to wrinkles. Smoking causes this to happen sooner and also causes the tiny blood vessels in the skin to tighten, which reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients that the skin cells receive, which also reduces elasticity and accelerates ageing.
The Mayo Clinic also suggest that exposure to heat from burning cigarettes damages facial skin and that certain smoking behaviours contribute to wrinkles, because of the repetitive facial expressions that smokers make, such as pursing the lips on inhaling and squinting their eyes to keep the smoke out.
Drinking alcohol can make your body and skin dehydrated, leaving the skin looking old and tired. So if you are drinking alcohol drink plenty of water and stick to sensible amounts. Have a non-alcoholic drink like soda water or watery fruit juice in between the alcoholic ones to help your body rehydrate.

Tip #3 for healthy skin: Clean your skin regularly and apply moisturizer

A British Skin Foundation survey published in January 2008 found that an astonishing 50 per cent of people who wear make up in the UK are damaging their skin by not removing make up before they go to bed.
The reasons for not cleansing the skin of make up before going to bed were also revealing in that most people were too tired to take it off, suggesting they were not getting good quality sleep which also affects skin health. A significant proportion also said they had had too much to drink or simply couldn’t be bothered.
Cleansing is an important part of skin care because it removes dirt and bacteria; and the key is to do it gently.
Use warm rather than hot water and limit the time you spend in the bath or shower to 15 minutes or less as too much time in hot water strips oils from your skin.

Moisturizing protects the skin from drying and acts as a protective layer for the skin

Also, use mild rather than strong soaps and avoid irritating additives such as perfumes and dyes, especially if you have sensitive skin.
When removing make up take care with the delicate skin around the eyes, and if you use waterproof make up you may need an oil-based product to make sure you get it all off.
When you have finished try to pat your skin dry so some moisture stays on it.
Moisturizing is important because it protects the skin from the weather and from drying up and looking dull. It helps your skin maintain its natural moisture levels too, say the Mayo Clinic experts, because it seals in the water already in the skin or slowly release water into the skin.
If you have dry skin avoid alcohol-based products and if you have oily skin avoid oil-based products (use water-based instead).
Some people with oily skin don’t need moisturizer: if your skin feels tight 20 minutes after bathing, then you probably do.

Tip #4 for healthy skin: Get enough quality sleep

Focus on quality sleep to keep your skin looking young and healthy

Sleep is essential for healthy skin. Not enough quality sleep will make your skin look tired and older, especially with bags under your eyes. Poor quality sleep can become a vicious cycle because lack of sleep makes you irritable, anxious and depressed, and that makes it harder to get good sleep.
Make sure you have plenty of physical exercise as this reduces stress and creates a healthy tiredness that helps sleep. Yoga and swimming are also good ways to improve sleep.
Aerobic exercise increases the oxygen circulating in your body which helps the skin stay vibrant and healthy.

Tip #5 for healthy skin: Shave with care

People shave to make their skin smooth and hairless, but this can irritate the skin, especially if it is thin, dry and sensitive.
For a smooth shave the Mayo Clinic experts advise that you shave after a warm bath or shower (or press a warm wet cloth on your skin) to soften the hair, don’t shave dry skin, use a clean, sharp razor, and shave in the direction of hair growth.
Make sure you rinse well afterwards with warm water to remove soap and dead cells.
If your skin is irritated after shaving don’t use an alcohol based lotion even if it feels cool, it will make the irritation worse because it dries the skin out.
Dr. Mark Bishara and The Paragon Plastis Surgery & Med Spa in Mansfield and Southlake, TX offers minimally invasive procedures, and skin care treatments to help keep your skin looking great. These treatments are designed to provide subtle enhancements that can improve your targeted problem areas, while allowing you to return to work and your regular activities the very same day. Dr. Bishara is also proud to offer a wide range of enhancing, minimally invasive procedures such as Botox, Xeomin, Juvederm Ultra Plus XC and Radiesse. Juvederm Voluma XC will be available soon. We will keep you updated or call our office for more information at (817) 473-2120.

November 26, 2013/by markbisharamd

Paragon Medspa, Retinol, skin care, Skin Conditions, Skin Resurfacing, Sun damage

What Do Antioxidants Have To Do With My Skincare?

What are Free Radicals?
Antioxidants are the only defense you have against free radical damage. What are free radicals? A free radical is a molecule in your body which is missing one electron. In an attempt to regain that lost electron, the molecule steals electrons from other molecules, which causes a ton of problems. These free radicals are so highly reactive and unstable, that they cause immense damage to the cells they come in contact with. Sometimes the damage is so severe, that it can even harm your DNA!
You may be asking yourself: what does this have to do with skincare? Well, everything! The harm caused from free radicals doesn’t just affect you on the inside, it affects your skin as well. If your skin has been in particularly bad shape lately, or you’re noticing wrinkles have been forming easier, you may be exposing yourself to too many free radicals. If that is the case, you should examine your surroundings to determine the sources of the radicals.
Smoking, UV ray exposure, and poor diet are very common free radical producers. As you age, and the ability to produce collagen decreases, free radicals penetrate much further, causing much more damage. They will also speed the decline of collagen in the body, allowing wrinkles, dark-spots, and sagging skin to form much quicker.
Antioxidants & Anti-Aging
Luckily for us, there is a way to prevent free radicals from causing damage in the body. Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, Omega-3, and many others have proven to minimize free radical damage by donating a spare electron of theirs to end the harmful electron-seeking chain reaction. Taken orally or absorbed topically, antioxidants are the answer to becoming healthier overall, both inside and out.
With your body becoming healthier, your skin will reflect the newfound protection. In the anti-aging skincare world, antioxidants are no secret. The positive benefits antioxidants produce for the skin have been utilized for generations, however they are now harvested synthetically as well as naturally and are incorporated in many skincare & supplement products.
Look for anti-aging products that feature antioxidants, such as Vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, as well as a range of hydrating & firming agents. Please call our office at (817) 473-2120, to find out how we can help you to maintain a healthy face for years to come.

October 22, 2013/by markbisharamd

Laser 360, Laser Acne Treatments, Laser Hair Removal, Laser Procedures, Laser Tattoo Removal, Laser Treatments, Liquid Facelift, lunch hour facelift, skin care, Skin Conditions, Skin Resurfacing, Skin Tightening, Sun damage, Tattoo Removal

Now is the Time to Start Laser Procedures at the office of Dr. Mark Bishara

Fall and winter months are a great time for laser procedures

The popularity of laser skin resurfacing is on the rise, and doctors say that winter is a great time to undergo these procedures.
It’s very important to avoid the sun as much as possible and it’s a lot easier to do that in the winter time than it is in the middle of the summer.
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), the number of laser skin resurfacing procedures performed by its members increased by nearly 10 percent between 2009 and 2010.
The procedure uses light to repair wrinkles, sun damage and scarring.
Doing this type of fractional resurfacing improves skin texture, skin color, pore size, acne scarring, any kind of scarring issues that we may have.
At the office of Dr. Mark Bishara and The Paragon Med Spa we can discuss what type of skin resurfacing is best for you. It’s important to note that results often take as long as several months to completely appear. However, the procedures do provide long-lasting results.
At our office we offer laser procedures and many other treatments that offer skin rejuvination:

For those who want the best possible results before the holidays, purchase our Ultimate Laser 360 treatment; a combination of Fotofacial, skin tightening and laser resurfacing.
For the time honored effective treatment for sun spots and discolorations, with the added benefit of eliminating broken capillaries, try our IPL Fotofacials
To help you achieve that perfect glow try out our SkinCeuticals Chemical Peels.
For people who want skin rejuvination with no downtime, smoother and softer skin and a reduction of fine lines try Microdermabrasion treatments.
As our tans are fading, fall is the perfect time to get started with Laser Hair Removal treatments.
There is also our VI Peel. VI Peel is a facial peel for ALL complexions. It helps improve the appearance of acne, unwanted pigmentation and melasma. It is the only peel of its kind to contain synergistic blend of TCA, Retin-A, Salicylic Acid, Phenol, and Vitamin C. It gives great results in as little as one treatment.

Please contact our office to inquire about the many med spa services we provide, that can give you great skin rejuvunation results. Please call (817) 473-2120.

October 22, 2013/by markbisharamd

Paragon Medspa, Paragon Perks, Retinol, skin care, Sun damage

Sun Safety Year Round- by Dr. Mark Bishara in Mansfield & Southlake

Sun safety is never out of season. Summer’s arrival means it’s time for picnics, trips to the pool and beach—and a spike in the number of sunburns. But winter skiers and fall hikers should be as wary of the sun’s rays as swimmers. People who work outdoors need to take precautions, too. Dr. Mark Bishara- with offices in Mansfield, Southlake and Dallas- focuses on educating patients about skin protection and wants to help patients restore or achieve their ideal appearance.

The need for sun safety has become clearer over the past 30 years. Studies show that exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer. Harmful rays from the sun—and from sunlamps and tanning beds—may also cause eye problems, weaken your immune system, and give you skin spots, wrinkles, and “leathery” skin.
Sun damage to the body is caused by invisible ultraviolet (UV) radiation. People recognize sunburn as a type of skin damage caused by the sun. Tanning is also a sign of the skin reacting to potentially damaging UV radiation by producing additional pigmentation that provides it with some—but often not enough—protection against sunburn.
Whatever our skin color, we’re all potentially susceptible to sunburn and other harmful effects of exposure to UV radiation. Although we all need to take precautions to protect our skin, people who need to be especially careful in the sun are those who have:

pale skin
blond, red, or light brown hair
been treated for skin cancer
a family member who’s had skin cancer

If you take medicines, ask your health care professional about sun-care precautions; some medications may increase sun sensitivity.

Reduce Time in the Sun

It’s important to limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. Even on an overcast day, up to 80 percent of the sun’s UV rays can get through the clouds. Stay in the shade as much as possible throughout the day.

Dress with Care

Wear clothes that protect your body. If you plan on being outside on a sunny day, cover as much of your body as possible. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, and pants. Sun-protective clothing is now available. However, FDA only regulates such products if the manufacturer intends to make a medical claim. Consider using an umbrella for shade.

Be Srious About Sunscreen

Check product labels to make sure you get the following:

a “sun protection factor” (SPF) of 15 or more. SPF represents the degree to which a sunscreen can protect the skin from sunburn.
“broad spectrum” protection—sunscreen that protects against all types of skin damage caused by sunlight
water resistance—sunscreen that stays on your skin longer, even if it gets wet. Reapply water-resistant sunscreens as instructed on the label

Tips for Applying Sunscreen:

Apply the recommended amount evenly to all uncovered skin, especially your lips, nose, ears, neck, hands, and feet.
Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going out in the sun.
If you don’t have much hair, apply sunscreen to the top of your head, or wear a hat.
Reapply at least every two hours.
Give babies and children extra care in the sun. Ask a health care professional before applying sunscreen to children under 6 months old.
Apply sunscreen to children older than 6 months every time they go out.

Protect the Eyes

Sunlight reflecting off snow, sand, or water further increases exposure to UV radiation and increases your risk of developing eye problems.
Tips for eye-related sun safety include:

When buying sunglasses, look for a label that specifically offers 99 to 100 percent UV protection.
Eyewear should be labeled “sunglasses.” Otherwise, you can’t be sure they will offer enough protection.
Pricier sunglasses don’t ensure greater UV protection.
Ask an eye care professional to test your sunglasses if you don’t know their level of UV protection.
People who wear contact lenses that offer UV protection should still wear sunglasses.
Wraparound sunglasses offer the most protection.
Children should wear real sunglasses (not toy sunglasses!) that indicate the UV protection level.

At the office of Dr. Bishara and The Paragon Med Spa we want to help you take care of your skin and rejuvinate it as needed. Most people already have some sort of sun damage for improper sun protection. Please contact our office to ask about our Skinceutical skin care line and sunscreens, as well as our Paragon Med Spa services. We offer many treatments that can help you rejuvinate your skin. Call (817) 473-2120 for more information on click on the button below.

September 25, 2013/by markbisharamd

Good Skin Care in Your 20’s, 30’s and 40+

20’s: The Issue- Dullness

In-Office Fixes: Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels
When you’re young skin cells turn over, exfoliating every 28 days. But as you move into your mid to late 20’s, that process starts to slow, and a natural decrease in skins sloughing ability. You’re left with a layer of dead skin that doesn’t evenly reflect light. Lunchtime procedures like microdermabrasion and chemical peels take less than and hour and leave behind only mild redness. During a microdermabrasion treatment, an aesthetician buffs away the top layer of skin. For maximum results, consider a series of 3 treatments, spaced apart- followed by a chemical peel. Microdermabrasion removes any build up and then the chemical peel makes skin look brighter and more toned evening out skin discoloration and tightening pores.

30’s: The Issues- Fine Lines, Redness and Sun Spots

In-Office Fixes for Fine Lines: Injectables such as Botox
Those little lines that used to disappear as soon as you stopped smiling or frowning are suddenly here to stay. Movements that cause skin to repeatedly crease in the same place eventually wear down the underlying collagen, creating lines that remain after muscles relax. Injectable muscle relaxers containing botulinum toxin A, such as Botox, Dysport and Xeomin, temporarily paralyze muscles so you can’t make those wrinkle-causing movements. Expect smoother skin 72 hours post-injection and results last 3-4 months on average. If you have no lines to speak of yet, these injections can be used as a preventative measure. Small doses can prevent muscle action so you’ll never get the creases to begin with.
**6.1 million people had Botox treatments performed in 2012**

In-Office Fixes for Redness and Sun Spots: Laser Procedures
A rosy glow can be a sign of good health, but a constant ruddy complexion is a red flag. For some it’s a sign of sun damage. Excessive UV exposure weakens blood vessels until they no longer constrict after dilating. For others redness stems for rosacea, a condition marked by flushing, broken blood vessels and acne-like bumps. Other issues like brown spots are a sign of chronic sun damage triggered by overexposure of UV rays. Unlike freckles these marks don’t fade after reduced sun exposure- but they will get darker with even more.
An IPL-Fotofacial will target and treat unwanted discoloration, pigmentation, broken capillaries, age spots and sun damage. It also lessens the appearance of rosacea, fine lines and wrinkles. At The Paragon Med Spa our medical microdermabrasion also includes a chemical peel. Our Laser 360 treatment offer 3 technologies in 1 visit. The Laser 360 is meant to be done in a series of 3 treatments and produces optimal results. During this treatment a fotofacial, skin tightening and laser skin resurfacing are combined to offer the most comprehensive correction and rejuvenation. Bonus: Your skin will look tighter and feel smoother.

40+: The Issues- Sagging, Deep Creases and Hollowed Cheeks

Genetics and the effects of sun damage really start to show in this decade, as skin’s elasticity takes a nosedive. Sagging skin and crow’s feet that showed up in your 30s are probably more pronounced now. And due to natural volume loss, you may be noticing new wrinkles especially around the lips and in between the nose and corners of your mouth. With age, skin loses fat, exposing folds and creases.
In-Office Fixes for Sagging and Deep Creases
Fillers such as Juvederm instantly plump indentations. JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus is used to treat deeper and more severe wrinkles and folds, and provides results that last up to one year. Injections take about 15 minutes to administer and do not require any anesthesia. Patients should avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sun exposure for the first 24 hours after treatment, but can otherwise resume normal activities right away.
In-Office Fixes for Hollowed Cheeks
Injectables such as Radiesse, reign supreme here too. Thicker fillers are ideal for filling out hollowed cheeks. Radiesse is a stiff material, so it’s good for replacing volume as well as lifting the skin. Radiesse provides an immediate fill plus long-term collagen stimulation for 18 months to two years.
Dr. Bishara provides a wide range of cosmetic procedures to help patients look and feel their best. These procedures are designed to improve the appearance of the face and body through minimally invasive techniques that provide highly effective results. Many of these procedures can be combined in order to achieve your desired appearance. Please call our office to schedule an appointment at (817) 473-2120 or click on the button below.