There are times when we can get so caught up with what the media establishes as beautiful that we loose sight of our own personal definitions. We are constantly bombarded by publications such as People Magazine’s Most Beautiful People in the World issue and shows like Extreme Makeover. It is no wonder we get so discouraged and pick ourselves apart.
Beauty for me is being healthy and happy. Knowing that I have the tools available to create a healthy lifestyle makes me feel powerful. This is why skin health is so important to me. I believe that when you invest time to take care of your skin the rewards are endless. As an esthetician I see patients who are so discouraged and hopeless because of their skin’s appearance. This is a very real feeling. Upon consultation and the creation of a skincare plan I see a glimmer of hope. After a few treatments I can see a renewal of confidence.
First, know that you are beautiful and commit to educating yourself about your skin and how you can participate in making it healthier. Do you have any skincare concerns that are preventing you from seeing the real you?
Viviane,
Thank you for this site. I have hyperpigmentation and it stresses me out. I cannot tell you how many concealers I have. I hate taking photos. It’s such a weight for me. I am often depressed and sometimes stay home instead of going out with my friends. Can you tell me a little about how I might be able to treat this?
Thank you.
Nina
By: Nina on July 16, 2008
at 6:24 pm
Nina,
Thank you so much for your comment. Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition. It is particularly problematic for women of color.
Hyperpigmentation causes skin darkening and discoloration that show up as spots, or as large patches on a person’s body. This is because cells that normally produce brown pigment evenly across your skin go into overdrive and produce too much melanin.
Before hyperpigmentation is treated, you must consult with your dermatologist. There may be underlying causes for the hyperpigmentation. For example acne may be causing excessive scarring. It is important to treat the acne first before hyperpigmentation can effectively be treated.
Hyperpigmentation can be treated in a variety of ways which include:
Hydroquinone
Retinoids
Azelaic acid
Gycolic acid
Chemical peels
Microdermabrasion
Be sure to consult your dermatologist for guidance and appropriate care.
Last but not least, be gentle to your face. Don’t pick pimples as this can cause those pesky melanin cells to act up and give you a brown spot.
By: Viviane on July 29, 2008
at 4:41 pm