How to Determine Your Skin Type

How to Determine Your Skin Type

/0 Comments/in /by

Your skin type is typically determined by a combination of your genetics, the climate, changes in your hormones, medications, diet, allergies or skin care. Because of all these different factors, your skin can vary season to season or depending on what time of foods you are eating.

However, when it comes to the health and care of your skin, it is important for you to nail down your skin type. Once you have that foundation, you can begin to seek out skincare products and adopt healthy habits that are ideal for someone with your skin type.

Typically, your skin will fall into one of four categories: dry, oily, normal/combination or sensitive. Below, we’ll break down the different skin types and show you how to determine which category your skin falls into.

Dry

Dry skin is defined as skin that is tight, flaky and lacking in moisture. Characteristics of dry skin can include almost invisible pores, dull, rough complexion, red patches, less elasticity in the skin, more visible lines. Your skin may also become rough and scaly, especially on the backs of your hands, arms and legs.

The key to treating dry skin is moisturizing. If you have dry skin, lotions and rich cream will be your best friends. Apply moisturizer several times each day, avoid harsh soaps or products that contain citrus oils and lots of fragrances. Look for water-based projects as oil-based products can make your dry skin worse. And, as always, drink lots of water.

Oily

Oily skin is defined as skin that is shiny and prone to breakouts and acne. Characteristics of oily skin can include enlarged pores, dull or shiny, thick complexion, blackheads, pimples or blemishes.

If you have oily skin, make sure to clean your face at least twice a day with liquid and gel cleansers. Stay away from products that have heavy creams. Instead, seek out products that are oil-free so you don’t inadvertently add more oil to your skin. Chemical exfoliants and clay masks will also help bring balance back to your skin.

Combination

Combination skin is defined as skin that exhibits multiple skin types at once. For example, you could have skin that includes both oily and dry skin characteristics. Typically, combination skin is identified by a consistently oily T-zone (the area of your forehead right above your eyebrows and along the top of your nose) with dryness in other areas of the face.

Combination skin is the most common skin type. If your skin falls into this category, you are going to want to use different products for different areas of your face in order to keep your skin well-balanced. Look for mild, gel cleansers and alcohol-free toners on oily areas and hydrate dry areas with light serums and moisturizers.

Sensitive

Sensitive skin is defined as skin that is easily aggravated by harsh products or weather, resulting in rashes, stinging and/or blotchy patches. If you have sensitive skin, it is important for you to try to find out what your triggers are so that you can avoid them.

As one of the most delicate skin types to handle, there are some helpful precautions to take when seeking out an idea skincare routine. Avoid products that contain harsh ingredients and don’t use products with too many active ingredients at one time.

Which skin type are you?

Now that you know a bit more about the different skin types, it is time to see which category you belong in.

  • First, wash your face and be sure to remove any products, lotions or makeup.
  • Pat your face dry with a towel and leave it alone.
  • Avoid touching your face or putting on any type of products for at least one hour.
  • Once the hour is over, examine your face in the mirror.

If your skin appears to be tight and flakey or it feels itchy, there’s a good chance you fall into the dry skin category. If your skin appears to be shiny and greasy all over, you are probably an oily skin type. If you notice oil in your T-zone but appear to be dry on your cheeks or jawline, you are more than likely a combination skin type. If you see that your skin is red, irritated or inflamed there is a very good chance that you have sensitive skin.

Still not sure what skin type you are? The best way to determine your skin type is to schedule a visit with our dermatologists. They will be able to help you identify your skin type and recommend products that are best for you.

Call our Patient Care Lines: (+632) 7-368 5238 l (+63) 917 862 7454 l (+63) 921 217 0517 for inquiries, questions, and appointments or talk to our consultants via LiveChat at https://shinagawa.ph so we can address and answer them for you.

Skincare Myths and Realities

Skincare Myths and Realities

/0 Comments/in /by

Still wondering which advice or theories to believe when it comes to skincare?

To help you sort through the rumor mill, let us dispel some common myths:

Myth: If a product is “all-natural”, it must be better for your skin.

Reality: Just like groceries, even if something is labeled as “natural”, that doesn’t exactly mean it’s true unless it’s certified organic or meets some other kind of certification. Plus, in the realm of skincare, it’s actually beneficial to use preservatives to prevent bacteria growth. Schedule a consultation with us at Shinagawa Aesthetics to let us help determine which products your skin will most benefit from!

Myth: Dermatologist-tested is best.

Reality: Just like the “all-natural” label, “dermatologist tested” or “dermatologist approved” actually doesn’t mean much. There are no standardized tests required to meet this certification, so it may simply be a marketing ploy. If you’d really like to know what products are dermatologist approved, come and visit us at Shinagawa to help us customize your skincare product arsenal.

Myth: The more expensive the product is, the better it works.

Reality: Truthfully, many of the more expensive products use similar ingredients to what you’ll find at the drugstore. Pay attention to the labels; especially since that’s mainly what you’re paying for!

Myth: Your skin acclimates to products.

Reality: Unless you’re using retinol or prescription retinoids, you don’t need to worry about your skin “getting used” to your skincare products. If you do feel like you need a stronger product due to natural aging of your skin, make an appointment with us at Shinagawa to determine which products are best for your routine.

Myth: You should customize your skincare routine around your age.

Reality: Nope! Age is not a skin type, so instead of considering how old you are, customize your routine around whether your skin is oily, dry or a combination. However, keep in mind that anti-aging products are important to start incorporating into your routine as soon as possible!

Myth: So many SPF myths… Where to begin?

Reality: Let’s start by revealing the truth about SPF: You need to wear it every day, even if it’s cloudy, even if it’s raining. You need to wear broad-spectrum SPF, since it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. You need to wear an SPF of at least 30 and it needs to contain either zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, mexoryl, oxybenzone or avobenzone.

Myth: Steam opens up your pores.

Reality: Have you ever seen someone lean over a boiling pot of water while making pasta in hopes that it will “open up their pores”? This is just silly, but it’s a prevailing myth. Steam can help your skin in a number of ways, like hydrating and soothing, but opening up your pores is sadly not one of these ways since your pores are always open.

Myth: Cellulite creams work wonders.

Reality: We all really wish they did, but unfortunately, there’s no scientific proof that these creams work, which means that cellulite creams have a lot in common with snake oil (although we wouldn’t be surprised to see that pop up on Goop, either).

Myth: Damaged hair can be repaired.

Reality: Just like pores are always open, hair is always dead, which means that it can’t exactly be revived. Of course, smoothing products can temporarily make it shine or feel soft, but there’s no mending the damage done from heat styling and dying.

Myth: Popping pimples is the best.

Reality:  Welcome to the sensation that has swept the nation (we’re looking at you, Dr. Pimple Popper). But even though popping the pus from a pimple may feel like the best thing to do at the moment, it can actually lead to inflammation and scarring. However, with the right regimen (which we can help you find at Shinagawa), acne can be controlled without going to such drastic (and disgusting) measures.

Looking for the best and most effective skincare tips? Our dermatologists are ready to help you!

Call our Patient Care Lines: (+632) 7-368 5238 l (+63) 917 862 7454 l (+63) 921 217 0517 for inquiries, questions, and appointments or talk to our consultants via LiveChat at https://shinagawa.ph so we can address and answer them for you.

Know If CoolSculpting Is For You

Know If CoolSculpting Is For You

/0 Comments/in /by

CoolSculpting is a shockingly accessible, non-invasive way to reduce fat. To say the least, it’s the coolest way to lose weight, literally and figuratively.

Who is CoolSculpting for?

Even though men and women tend to show fat in different areas, CoolSculpting works for both. The procedure works great for getting rid of stubborn bulges in the love handle area, muffin top, flank, inner and outer thighs, chin and upper arms.

Who is CoolSculpting not for?

You should not have CoolSculpting if you suffer from cryoglobulinemia, cold agglutinin disease, or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria. You should let us know at Charleston Dermatology before your procedure if you have had recent surgery, a pre-existing hernia or any known sensitivities or allergies.

How does it work?

CoolSculpting reduces the number of fat cells in the treated areas and it works best if you’re within about 30 pounds of your goal weight. Since all of us have a set amount of fat cells, when we gain weight, it’s because the fat cells are expanding in size. Even if you diet and exercise, sometimes those pockets of fat can be pretty stubborn. CoolSculpting makes these problem areas less troubling by using cryolipolysis. Since fat cells hate cold, CoolSculpting freezes them out until your body naturally eliminates the dead cells, which may take a few months

What can I expect during my appointment?

Because CoolSculpting is totally noninvasive, you can reply to emails, read a book or just relax. We’ll apply a clear gel pad and the applicator will adhere to your body. After we finish with the applicator, we will do a brief massage to break up the fat cells and enhance fat reduction. During the procedure, you might experience sensations like pulling, tugging, mild pinching, intense cold, tingling, stinging, aching or cramping. These sensations subside as the area becomes numb

What can I expect after the treatment is over?

One of the best parts of CoolSculpting is that there’s little-to-no downtime following a treatment. After your appointment, you might experience temporary redness, swelling, blanching, bruising, firmness, tingling, stinging, tenderness, cramping, aching, itching or skin sensitivity.

There you have it: CoolSculpting is an easy, FDA-cleared way to eliminate your fat cells and achieve your body contouring goals.

Call our Patient Care Lines: (+632) 7-368 5238 l (+63) 917 862 7454 l (+63) 921 217 0517 for inquiries, questions, and appointments or talk to our consultants via LiveChat at https://shinagawa.ph so we can address and answer them for you.

Diet Tips for a Healthy Skin

Diet Tips for a Healthy Skin

/0 Comments/in /by

So much of your skin’s health starts from the inside. That’s why it’s so important to eat a healthy diet that benefits not just your overall health, but the health of your skin. After all, your skin is the largest organ of the integumentary system. Along with regular checkups and adamant sun protection, we recommend exercising regularly and eating these healthy foods to maintain a glowing complexion:

Fruits and Veggies

We all know it’s important to eat your vegetables, but fruits can also help out with skin health! Tomatoes, citrus fruits and strawberries all contain vitamins and nutrients that aid skin clarity. For instance, tomatoes contain lycopene, which is a phytochemical that helps protect against sun damage. All the more reason for a tomato salad in the heat of summer!

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach, kale and collard greens contain antioxidants like Vitamins C, E and A, all of which help with a healthy glow and less hyperpigmentation. They also contain iron, folate, chlorophyll, magnesium, fiber and protein, which help with stress, sleep and overall health. If you only eat greens when they’re fried or on a burger, it’s definitely time to eat more salads or drink pure juices! Your skin and mind will thank you!

Nuts and Seeds

Almonds, walnuts and sunflower seeds are simply wonderful for skin health. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that assist in nourishing your skin from the inside out!

Healthy Fats

It’s not hard to incorporate more delicious healthy fats into your diet. Salmon, avocado and sweet potato all work hard to provide nourishment and moisturize your skin. The combination of those three tossed over a bed of spinach and dressed in olive oil and lemon juice sounds like an excellent lunch or dinner option! Delicious, filling and skin-serving!

The Good Stuff

Red wine has been proven to have several health benefits, especially since it contains flavonoid, resveratrol and tannin. These properties can boost collagen and elastic fibers, which helps with aging. Some folks even apply it topically! Dark chocolate also contains antioxidants which promote a healthy glow. When consumed in moderation, these treats can provide fabulous benefits to your skin!

Water

Are you getting your eight glasses a day? Hydration is necessary for a clear, glowing complexion! Your skin is an organ that is made up of cells, which are made up of water. If they don’t receive enough H2O, they won’t function as they should and you’ll be left looking dry and flaky. Water is the best moisturizer!

If you’re ready to talk more about skin health and how you can maintain a healthy glow, make an appointment with our dermatologists today.

Call our Patient Care Lines: (+632) 7-368 5238 l (+63) 917 862 7454 l (+63) 921 217 0517 for inquiries, questions, and appointments or talk to our consultants via LiveChat at https://shinagawa.ph so we can address and answer them for you.

Tips for Getting Better Beauty Sleep

Tips for Getting Better Beauty Sleep

/0 Comments/in /by

There’s more involved with getting a good night’s rest than simply hitting the pillow.

To reap the benefits of your beauty sleep, you’ll need to put in some extra (and easy) effort to create the perfect sleep environment and routine. While this may sound counterintuitive, the results will be worth it!

Here are some tips for getting better beauty sleep:

  • Stick to a consistent sleep schedule – Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality. Most adults should get between seven to nine hours of rest each night.
  • Create a relaxing sleep environment – Your bedroom should be cool, dark, and quiet, with comfortable bedding and a supportive mattress.
  • Limit screen time before bed – The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your body’s production of melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep.
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed – Both can interfere with sleep quality and make it harder to fall asleep.
  • Practice relaxation techniques – Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can all help to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
  • Prioritize your nightly skincare routine – Your board-certified dermatologist can help you identify specific skin concerns and recommend products or treatments that complement your beauty sleep routine.

It’s also important to note that while getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, it’s not the only factor. Other lifestyle habits, such as a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can also affect skin health. 

Working with an experienced dermatologist will allow you to identify the root causes of your skin troubles and create unique solutions to achieve shining skin.

Call our Patient Care Lines: (+632) 7-368 5238 l (+63) 917 862 7454 l (+63) 921 217 0517 for inquiries, questions, and appointments or talk to our consultants via LiveChat at https://shinagawa.ph so we can address and answer them for you.