Skin Rx: Clean & Clear

The wedding day is one of the most photographed days in a bride's life. Manicures and Pedicures are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to looking your best. Even a relatively nice complexion can benefit from nine- six months of stress-relief, proper nutrition, and added water-drinking. It is definitely key to meet with a licensed esthetician or dermatologist to analyze your skin and create a customized plan geared specifically towards your skincare needs.

Cortisone Shot is the best way to treat a mountain size pimple. Not for the needle phobias out there but for anyone who can brave the quick injection of the miracle steroid, this procedure is instant gratification. Great for those brides who only have 48 hrs before their wedding. This shot fights the inflammation and the pimple head.You need a dermatologist for this procedure and it usually costs around $125 but it may be covered by insurance. Cortisone shot is also used as treatment for keloid scars.

For those who suffer from acne or severe hormonal break outs during that wonderful time of the month, a switch in oral contraceptives may help significantly reduce the acne. All birth control pills contain synthetic hormones that imitate the hormones that a woman naturally produces. However, some oral contraceptives like Yasmin has been known to work effectively against acne. Yasmin for acne treatment is a monophasic combination birth control pill, which combines the two major female sex hormones, Estrogen and Progesterone. Talk to your gynecologist or reproductive health councilor if Yasmin is right for you.

Another option for clear skin is a treatment called, Isolaz. It utilizes a new technology called photopneumatics. The two pronged approach to treat acne uses a vaccum to suck up excess oil from the pores and a painless laser to reduce bacteria content. It usually takes 1-4 treatments but it does come with a steep price tag, between $400-$600 per treatment. The perk is that the procedure last about 10 minutes with minimal redness and can be used to remove unwanted hair, fight sun damage and is practically painless. In about one month, you can achieve clear skin with Isolaz.

Of course a good cleansing program is important too. Use a multi-step system including

• a good cleanser appropriate for your skin-type in the mornings
• make-up remover and cleanser at night
• daily moisturizer with an spf
• an exfoliant once to several times a week.

For acne prone skin types, I suggest using a cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide of at least 2%. For those who have sensitive oily skin like myself, Boscia Clear Complexion Cleanser with botanical blast is a great cleanser. I use this in conjunction with the Boscia Clear Complexion toner with botanical blast. It works for all skin types especially those with sensitive skin and the entire Boscia line is preservative free so you'll feel good knowing that the skincare products you use are not toxic to your skin.

It should be noted I also use the Clarisonic facial brush. This device is really effective in removing make up residue and giving an overall clean face. The FI gave me the Clarisonic for X-mas and it has since been my Holy Grail of skin care tools. You will have skin as soft as a baby's bottom! Other benefits include better product absorption and reduction in pore size, creating healthier looking skin. This mini microdermabrasion cleansing tool is really ideal for those who want an effective and thorough cleaning.

Brush heads available for sensitive skin types and a body brush is available too. Brush heads should be replaced every 3 months for best usage.


WATER

Always, always drink enough water. Usually 8-10 glasses daily will help clear up blemishes. Keep a water bottle to help make sure you get enough water intake. And reduce your caffeine consumption, it will help with stress levels and it keeps skin more hydrated.