Rosacea may be a visible warning marker for hidden, potentially serious diseases

5 Tips for Healthy Winter Skin:

- Cover exposed skin when heading outdoors.

- Wash with lukewarm water. Hot showers strip oils from your skin.

- Humidify your home.

- Choose your moisturizer carefully; opt for gentile, natural products.

- Use SPF even during the winter.

DreamBelly Butter by Fairhaven is designed to help protect and nourish your skin as it stretches to accommodate your growing belly during your pregnancy.

Product Features + Benefits:

• Combines the healing power of rosehip oil, aloe vera, honeysuckle and grapefruit, to protect and regenerate skin, and provide soothing relief from itchiness
• Provides deep moisturizing from natural butters and oils with no greasy, slippery feeling
• Has the mild, pleasant fragrance of milk and honey
• Contains no petroleum products, parabens, artificial colors or artificial preservatives

Age range: Adult

MSRP: $9.95

Available online: https://www.fairhavenhealth.com/dreambelly-butter

Chapped skin a real concern for winter athletics. Olen Cosmetics has created *the* best solution to this dilemma with their Baby Butz Cream. Not only the safest and most effective diaper rash treatment available without a prescription it’s perfect to use for chapped skin and to protect against the elements. 100% natural ingredients and 30% zinc oxide. Used in hospital neonatal units and many pediatricians hand out samples plus medical professionals have endorsed this cream. No Chemicals, no Alcohol, no perfumes and hypoallergenic.

Age range: Birth+

MSRP: $12.99 (4 ounces), $7.99 (2 ounces)

Available online: www.Amazon.com

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you still can’t get burned especially when participating in snow activities because the snow reflects the sun making sun exposure a real issue in cold climates. Olen Cosmetics and their Sun Blocz 100% natural sunscreen is just what you need to stay protected. 100% Natural Sunscreen, 24.5% Zinc Oxide (non-nano), SPF 50 - UVA+UVB Broad Spectrum, water resistant for 80 minutes, hypoallergenic, doesn’t sting eyes, and repels bugs!

No Parabens, No Phthalates, Reef Safe, No Animal Testing

Age range: Birth+

MSRP: $24.99

Available online: www.Amazon.com

Great for chapped baby & kid cheeks! Winner of the 2017 Baby Maternity Magazine Tocp Choice award and the 2016 Cribsie Awards Academy Star award, BabyIt is a must have for all pregnant moms! Doctor-formulated and paraben free BabyIt is a multipurpose gel that can be used to sooth and heal sensitive areas as well as to moisturize delicate skin.

Product Features + Benefits:

• Safely helps reduce the risk of trauma during childbirth and eases postpartum recovery
• Paraben, glycerol, oil and fragrance free
• pH balanced for pregnant women's sensitive tissues

Age range: Adult Pregnant and Postpartum Women

MSRP: $19.95

Available online: www.MyIsoLove.com

Consonant Skincare Launches:
Maximum Glycolic Meta Serum™ 

The innovative new product transforms skin without irritation

Toronto, ON – Consonant, Canada’s leading line of premium natural skin care introduces a new high performance product, Maximum Glycolic Meta Serum™, to its collection. The serum boasts the maximum allowable concentration of glycolic acid in an over-the-counter serum in Canada, but is clinically proven to be 100 per cent non-irritating and ideal for sensitive skin.

Specially formulated to exfoliate to reveal smoother, brighter and firmer-looking skin, Maximum Glycolic Meta Serum retails for $60 CAD and USD, and is available at ConsonantSkincare.com, sephora.ca, Consonant Skincare stores and select retailers starting December 4, 2017.

Consonant Skincare’s new Maximum Glycolic Meta Serum
Photo Credit: Consonant Skincare
When used regularly, this powerful serum dissolves the bonds that prevent dead skin cells from being sloughed away; at the same time loosening dirt, makeup and clogged pores to reveal clearer, healthier and younger looking skin. The Meta Serum is also clinically proven to minimize the look of fine lines, brighten skin and add hydration.

“We are extremely proud of our innovative formula and how it transforms your skin naturally with little to no irritation,” said Bill Baker, founder of Consonant Skincare. “By nature, glycolic products are irritating due to their low-pH level, however, our Maximum Glycolic Meta Serum boasts four all-natural botanical extracts to soothe skin and minimize or eliminate irritation altogether. The hydrating and firming properties are all added benefits.”

A clinical trial revealed overwhelmingly positive response to the Maximum Glycolic Meta Serum:

• 100 per cent of clinical trial users experienced no burning sensation or redness – a rarity with glycolic products with the maximum concentration of glycolic
• 95 per cent reported smoother, softer skin
• 95 per cent saw no tightness or dryness to their skin
• 90 per cent reported skin was more hydrated
• 85 per cent claimed skin was firmer, more elastic and supple

Maximum Glycolic Meta Serum is available at ConsonantSkincare.com, sephora.ca, Consonant Skincare stores and select retailers beginning December 4.

About Consonant Skincare:
Located at 2479 Yonge St. in Toronto, all Consonant Skincare’s 100 per cent natural products are created and produced in Canada, and are made with the highest possible concentration of organic botanical ingredients. They are formulated to work in harmony with the body’s natural chemistry to improve the health of skin over time, rather than just covering up irritating symptoms. Skin appears firmer, healthier and younger without the use of synthetic ingredients such as parabens, sulphates, petroleum ingredients, phthalates and silicone.

Website:         www.consonantskincare.com
Twitter:          @Consonant
Facebook:      /ConsonantLife
Instagram:     @ConsonantLife
Hashtag:       #ConsonantSkincare

As we head into the cooler months the weather change impacts our skin. We may notice changes to texture, tone, perhaps some breakouts and over all ruddiness and damage from being outside enjoying the summer. Here are some of the most common post summer skin issues I see in my practice along with some solutions for them.

1. Sunspots and wrinkles.

Days at the beach or pool can lead to sunspots even if you apply sunscreen. We cannot reach every spot and sometimes we forget to reapply after swimming. Also, even when wearing polarized sunglasses, we may put them on our heads; temporarily squinting leading to crow’s feet.

If you’re noticing some new spots, freckles and wrinkles reach for a retinoid. Your dermatologist can offer prescription strength creams. Deeper wrinkles like the ones between the eyes usually require something like Botox but, you can minimize the appearance with creams that feature glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acid. These are wonder vitamins for the skin stimulate skin shedding and cellular turn over. A serum used at night will help; but be patient and use it regularly to see a gradual change. Chemical peels and intense light treatments (IPL) can handle any discoloration.

2. 2. Clogged pores and dullness.

During the summertime, we perspire plus we are exposed to daily pollution in the air. When you combine these factors plus daily use of make-up, pores get clogged. Beneath the skin are our sebaceous glands which secrete an oil called sebum. Sebum sticks to dead skin cells like glue and funnels these dead skin cells through the pores. This is a process that is supposed to help you maintain healthy skin. The problem is when the weather and elements speed up the process pores become clogged. The dead skin cells get trapped along with bacteria and this leads to dull, ruddy skin with breakouts. An exfoliating face wash with glycolic acid or salicylic acid helps tremendously. Your dermatologist can create a skin care regimen based on your specific skin type and issues so you don’t deregulate pH levels in the skin which will only make things worse leading to…

3. Acne flare ups.

Consistent heat and humidity combined with cell phone use and touching our faces after touching dirty surfaces, leads to a post-summer breakout. These breakouts can be cystic which means bigger, deeper, more painful pimples. It also can lead to a cycle of breakouts that include, treat, pick, peel, scar, and heal only to see another pimple and another. Over the counter acne treatments such as face washes with sulfur, black charcoal masks and soaps, spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide can certainly help. However, when the breakouts are consistent a dermatologist can assess your skin and present solutions that may even involve nutritional changes, vitamins and light therapy for mild or moderate acne.

4. Dry lips.

We all know about winter time lip chapping. In the summer lips can get incredibly dry. Using a lip balm with SPF is very helpful but unless we are applying it regularly while at the beach, pool, or working out outdoors, one swipe under lip gloss isn’t enough. Drinking water, and keeping alcohol consumption to a minimum helps keep us hydrated. When we are dehydrated, we see it on our lips. Pay close attention to any freckles or discoloration to the lips after prolonged sun exposure. If you see any odd changes, see your dermatologist.

5. Ashy, flaky, itchy, skin.

If you are often in chlorine or salt water you’ll find your skin to feel rough and dry almost as if it is shedding. Also, going from extreme heat to cool air conditioning leads to skin going from perspiration to goosebumps. This rapid drop in temperature affects skin. Taking luke-warm showers and using a gentle exfoliating skin wash followed by a hydrating moisturizer keeps skin supple. Add a few drops of vitamin E to your lotion for added nourishment.

When it comes to the face, peeling foreheads and noses points to sun damage. Oftentimes people wait until something is visible to them or when an is followed by a dry patch. Dermatologists can look at things with a more discerning eye plus magnifiers that enable them to flag something that could escalate into something more. If everyone put October on their calendars as the month to see a dermatologist for a skin check we would see many skin conditions be solved quicker. This includes melanomas.

About the expert:

Dr. Margarita Lolis, M.D. is a board-certified cosmetic, medical dermatologist and a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon with over 20 years of experience. In her practice, she addresses common skin concerns such as acne prevention and treatment in both teens and adults, sun-damage, skin discoloration, wrinkles, changes to skin texture and loss of volume. On the medical side, she is a trusted expert in melanoma and over-all skin health. Dr. Lolis prides herself in honoring facial symmetry to deliver a natural look to her clients. She always recommends a healthy skin care regimen plus lifestyle habits that are aligned with her holistic approach to beauty.

As an anti-aging, functional medicine physician, Dr. Lolis masterfully addresses age management, starting with internal issues, such as hormone and gut health, nutrition, and detoxification leading to a vibrant appearance from the inside out.

A graduate of Yale University and Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Dr. Lolis has authored numerous book chapters and medical articles in leading dermatology journals, and completed a melanoma research fellowship prior to residency.

Dr. Lolis is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Society of Anti-aging. Her practice, Skin, Laser, and Surgery Specialists is in New York City and Bergen Country, New Jersey.

Safe Solutions for 6 Common Beach Body Concerns

Summer is approaching! It’s the time of year met with mixed emotions. On one hand you’re excited for the warmer weather, open toe shoes and weekends at the beach or pool. On the other hand you dread revealing the stubborn cellulite, dull skin, stretch marks, scarring from breakouts on the chest shoulders or back not to mention coarse hairs.

Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery in Philadelphia who has appeared on national programs such as Good Morning America and 20/20, offers some insights and tips on these top 6 beach body concerns.

1. My skin is so pale!

It’s been way too long since you have seen a glimmer of sunshine and realize how your skin matches the white of your office walls. You want to avoid tanning beds and load up on sunscreen. “Opt for a bronzing cream or spray tan instead of tanning beds. Many of the women who come to me for facial procedures including Botox, fillers and laser treatments could have slowed down the aging process by being vigilant about sun protection and avoiding tanning beds,” cautions Dr. Brandow.

2. I have acne scarring on my shoulders and chest.

The quickest and most permanent way to remove these infuriating scars is with a laser. “Lasers are a very efficient way to remove scars and improve over all skin texture with minimal side effects. Patients are pleased with the fast results, which can be seen after the first treatment with optimal results by end of a treatment cycle based on your own needs,” explains Dr. Brandow.

3. I exercise but there still that little bit of tummy flab.

Stubborn tummy flab won’t disappear even with all of that exercising and dieting. Some people who have had children even consider a full tummy tuck. “It is very important to find a doctor who understands all options and can recommend one that will address your specific concern. Some pricey non-invasive body contouring procedures will offer a temporary result making it necessary to repeat them,” advises Dr. Brandow whose specialty is the Jersey Shore Tummy Tuck given his practice’s proximity to the Jersey Shore.

4. Cellulite.

There is no easy way to remove cellulite; you are either using a coffee scrub or going in to see the doctor for a laser procedure. Dr. Brandow recommends the professional treatment called Smartlipo, which is a small laser that goes into the skin and melts the fat away. Smartlipo is a less invasive procedure than liposuction, is costly and time consuming but the results can last up to five years.

5. Stretch Marks.

An inevitable result of weight fluctuation, are stretch marks.

Coolbeam laser is a new hit to eliminate stretch marks thanks to Kim Kardashian, who posted on her Snapchat about the procedure. Dr. Brandow explains, “lasers are far less invasive than a surgical procedure, which has a much longer recovery time.” Another option for stretch marks that Dr. Brandow recently spoke of on a recent TV segment is using PRP (platelet rich plasma), which involves pricking the scarred region with a special roller instrument then using the body’s own plasma to stimulate healing and collagen regrowth. “This is the same thing as the ‘Vampire facial’ but done on stretch marks. Results are incredibly impressive,” he says.

6. Unwanted body hair.

Hair removal is always a beach season battle. For a more effective long-term hair removal option, Dr. Brandow highly recommends investing in laser hair removal. “Laser hair removal is the most permanent way to remove unwanted body hair. It takes ups to 6-12 treatments offering the best results.” Waxing is a popular option, which can last up to 3-6 weeks depending on how your hair grows. It is the quickest and long-lasting hair removal technique that doesn’t require any laser and it can be done at home.

Dr. Brandow also reminds people to check with their dermatologist for an annual skin screening before exposing themselves to another season of sunshine.

About Dr. Kirk Brandow

Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery is a plastic surgeon with 2 locations in the Philadelphia metro area and a 3rd one at the jersey shore. Named a “Top Doc” in Plastic Surgery by Philadelphia Magazine as well as nationally recognized for one of America’s “Best Plastic Surgeons” of this decade, Dr. Brandow is a trusted expert who has developed many innovative, minimally invasive procedures for the face, body and skin. He has been featured on local, national and international television programs including 20/20, CNN’s Headline News, Good Morning America.

One of the most awesome things about the human body is its ability to heal itself. So many, especially women, spend hundreds of dollars trying to attain perfect skin. Like everyone else, I see the importance in skin care and attaining great skin is very important to me. That's why when I was presented with the opportunity to check out Samantha Dench's book, "Skin Deep: Demystifying Skin Care Solutions to Achieve Healthy, Glowing Skin", I jumped at the opportunity.

This book is filled with gems and tips on how to attain your best skin ever! The author, Samantha Dench is very qualified to speak and write on this topic. As Samantha is a licensed esthetician and spa owner.

After reading this book, I learned so much invaluable information and my skin has been showing it. As a health enthusiast, I loved Samantha's message of taking care of your skin from the inside out. She is also a believer that great skin care starts with what you put into your body. We've all heard that the keys to great skin is exfoliating, cleaning, toning and moisturizing, but 'Skin Deep' goes much deeper into this topic to really help with getting a routine that will work for you and provide the best results for healthy, glowing, beautiful skin. She also helps you navigate the world of estheticians and helps you find the best skin care expert for you. Did I mention she also tackles anti-aging?

Check out Samantha Dench's book today by clicking the link:http://skindeepil.com/skindeep-book/ ! If you're in the States, you can also visit one of Samantha's Illinois or Texas locations!