Lycopene for Lunch?

On my lunch break I was trying to decide if I should try the pasta with tomatoe and basil or the chicken alfredo. Then I remembered, Lycopene! I ended up choosing the pasta with tomatoe and basil, because tomatoes contain a powerful antioxidant called lycopene that neutralizes free radicals and offers a small dose of sun protection. The best way to receive the benefits of lycopene would be eating cooked tomatoes (i.e. Marinera sauce)or even applying lycopene topically. One of my favorite brands Eminence Organics of Hungary sells a Tomatoe Sun Protection SPF 16 cream that is excellent for the skin. Since lycopene is fat soluble with small molecules, if applied topically it absorbs very well into the skin to nourish it. So next time you're at the pasta station and you have to choose red or white, you know what to do!

Topic of the Week: Ethnic Skin Concerns

Asian and dark skin in particular often suffer from hyperpigmentation caused by scarring (from acne, etc.), certain medications, inflammation from skin damage and sun damage .

This past week I had a lot of clients with darker skin and hyperpigmentation issues. I was asked tons of questions on how to lighten dark spots.

Depending on the severity of your case here are my recommendations for treating hyperpigmentation:

1. Sunblock-This is a critical first step in protecting your skin and ensuring that hyperpigmentation does not worsen. A must for anyone prone to hyperpigmentation (i.e. dark sensitive skin)

2. Aveda's Embrightenment Line-Ascorbyl Glucoside (a vitamin C derivative), mulberry root, and grape extracts work together to rid dark spots. I personally have worked with these products and can tell you that nearly all clients said they seen results. Insider Tip: the toner, serum, and moisturizer have the most active ingredients, so make sure to purchase at least 2 of these items for your regimen.

2. Chemical Peels and/or Microdermabrasion-My recommendation would be to go to a medical spa or dermatologist if you want either of these treatments to be aggresive and effective. Bare in mind, skin that hyperpigments easily is already sensitive in a way but, if your skin is SUPER sensitive, these methods might not be your first choice.

3. Laser-I'd like to highlight a renowned dermatologist, Dr. Battle of Cultura Cosmetic Dermatology and Laser Center (http://www.culturamed.com/), who patented a laser and procedure called "Complexion Blending" that I've heard works wonders for ethnic skin that suffers from hyperpigmentation. I plan on scheduling a consultation to see what his skin gurus recommend and of course I'll post a review!!!

**Be sure to not over do any kind of aggresive treatment intended to treat hyperpigmentation, if you do it could lead to lightening the skin too much and result in hypopigmentation** But that's a different topic for another day:)

GOT MILK? GET GREAT SKIN!

I've never been a milk drinker, but recently I've found that milk does more for the skin than I thought. Of course Aveda taught me that lactic acid which is derived from milk is found in many mild peels that are on the market and serves as a great exfoliant. Now I know that simple whole milk is the best way to exfoliate sensitive skin. The lactic acid gives a light chemical peel and the fatty acids moisturize the skin. All you have to do is take a bowl of whole milk, soak a washcloth in it, squeeze out the excess, and let the clothe sit on your face for about 3-4 minutes. Repeat the motions as necessary and open your eyes to brighter, healthier skin!!! Who knew an effective peel could be so simple.