There are a million skin care products out there meant to treat every skin issue from aging to acne. Maybe you’re used to a quick trip to your local drug turning into an hour of browsing the cosmetics section, reading labels with a perpetual question mark on your face. If that sounds familiar, read on as we demystify some of those long, hard-to-pronounce words on the backs of the most popular skin care products.
Get To Know Your Cleansers 
- Sodium lauryl sulfate: A cleaning agent common in face wash and shampoo that will leave you feeling squeaky clean. Unfortunately it’s also used in engine degreasers, making it a bit harsh on skin. While we all love that clean feeling, look for gentler cleansers to wont strip the skin of the natural oils it needs to protect itself and maintain elasticity.
- Acyl-polyglycoside: This cleaning ingredient is known as a gentle detergent that helps skin retain moisture.
- Salicylic acid: Also known as Beta-Hydroxy Acid, is common in acne treatments and cleansers. This is a good alternative for people with sensitivity to benzoyl peroxide, another common acne treatment ingredient. Though if you have allergies to salycylates (found in aspirin), you’ll want to steer clear.
Get To Know Your Anti-Aging Products
- Hyaluronic Acid: This naturally occurring sustance is common in young skin, tissue, and joint fluid. This ingredient is most frequently used to treat wrinkled skin, though it wont replace anything the body has naturally lost.
- Dimethylaminoethanol: Also known as DMAE, is actually produced naturally in the brain. Again, while frequently used to treat treat fine lines and wrinkles, results may be minimal.
- Vitamin C : This vitamin doesn’t just boost your immune system. According to WebMD, “Vitamin C helps to minimize fine lines, scars, and wrinkles. It’s the only antioxidant that is proven to boost production of collagen, which is a key part of skin’s structure.” But be choosy when it comes to picking your source of Vitamin C, many processed vitamins loose effectiveness quickly when exposed to oxygen.
If you’re thinking about taking advantage of the February specials, you may be curious about Obagi products. Well let us tell you, these specialized skin care products are developed specifically for a variety of skin types, ages, and issues. We use these highly effective skin care products in our own office because they yield such great results. Call today to schedule your free cosmetic consultation with Jill Hude, our new certified PA, and find out which Obagi line is right for your skin.
Want to update your skin care? Contact Four Points Dermatology, their friendly, professional staff will inform you of all the recommended skin care products and monthly specials.
