ASCP Skin Deep

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

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38 january/february 2017 Alipidic skin, also known as oil-dry skin—skin that lacks oil as opposed to water—is not producing enough sebum and presents as invisible or very small pores during a skin analysis. The follicles are narrow due to the tiny amounts of sebum being produced by the sebaceous glands. Alipidic skin is often also dehydrated due to the lack of protective sebum on the skin's surface, which allows moisture to escape the skin's surface and evaporate into dry air. TREATING OIL-DRY AND DEHYDRATED SKIN During analysis, observe the pore structure and distribution of pores across the face. If you see visible pores that cover the entire face, the sebum production is likely normal. Very large pore appearance, often also accompanied by comedones and impacted follicles (clogged pores), indicates oily skin. When pores are smaller or appear to be invisible, this is alipidic skin. Alipidic skin requires supplemental emollients in treatment product to help protect this skin that is so vulnerable to dehydration. These may include a variety of emollient ingredients, including natural plant oils like borage, safflower, sunflower, and others. Synthetic emollients like petrolatum and silicones such as dimethicone can provide excellent protection against dehydration. Other fatty plant oil derivatives such as caprylic/capric triglycerides or shea butter are also good protectant emollients. The amount of emollient used in the product will determine the product viscosity (cream versus lotion); products have variable emollient content to address various levels of dryness severity. Almost all dry skin products will also contain humectants, also known as hydrating agents. These ingredients attract and hold water in the skin surface and include ingredients like glycerin, sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid ester), sodium PCA, and natural ingredients like seaweed extracts. Most products for dry skin contain a mix of both emollients and humectants. Products are formulated for various degrees of dryness. A moisture cream for dry skin will contain high levels of both emollients and humectants, while a lotion for combination-dehydrated skin will contain less emollient. Sometimes clients will choose a heavier moisturizer with lots of emollient, thinking it is more effective, but it will only work if they have oily-dehydrated skin; otherwise, the product will cause oiliness and possibly impacted follicle or related acne issues. Possibly the most effective ingredients for dry and dehydrated skin are lipid-replacement ingredients such as ceramides, cholesterol, linoleic acid, and sphingolipids. These highly effective ingredients work by patching the mortar between cells in the epidermis, helping to dramatically boost moisture in the skin. This not only helps with hydration and symptoms of dryness, but can also reduce skin redness and improve the appearance of wrinkles and lack of firmness. CLINIC TREATMENTS Hydrating treatments can help dramatically boost hydration. The use of steam, quality hydrating products, facial massage, and stimulation through devices such as high frequency can help improve hydration. Mild exfoliation—not strong peels—such as gentle enzymes and low-level acid peels can help remove dry, dead, dehydrated cell buildup, and stimulate cell turnover to reveal younger cells and improve intercellular lipid production. expertadvice SKIN SOLUTIONS MUST-DOs for Dry Skin Use protective moisturizers that contain petrolatum, plant- derived emollients, or silicones to help prevent water loss in less humid, cold, or windy environments. It is best if these also contain a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Ceramides and other lipid ingredients can be incorporated in products to help improve barrier function. Use gentle exfoliants to remove dead, dried surface cells. Make sure to choose products appropriate for the individual skin type. Hydrating facial treatments can help boost moisture and speed recovery. Physically protect skin from wintry conditions with a hat, scarf, glasses, and gloves.

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