Cosmoceutical Treatments additional information

For cosmeceutical products to be biologically active they must be able to deeply penetrate the skin and remain active for long enough to cause benefit, such as neutralising free radicals that damage skin cell DNA. The majority of over the counter products available currently contain unstable antioxidants which render them biologically inactive. 

Topical vitamin A Serum
 This skin serum contains retinoids, which are a powerful substance that inhibit collagen breakdown and promote collagen synthesis as well as improving the immune system. Vitamin A serum can treat both photo-aging, fine lines and pigmentation problems as well as acne and rosacea. On consultation I can advised on the strength of Vitamin A serum appropriate for you.

Topical vitamin B serum 
This skin serum readily penetrates the epidermis protecting against both UV radiation and non-melanoma skin cancers. These skin cancers affect more than half the population of Australia at any one time! Vitamin B serum also helps to treat acne, rosacea and improves fines lines, blotchiness, hyperpigmentation, yellowing skin and also improves skin’s elasticity and hydration. 

Topical vitamin C serum 
This is the only antioxidant to date that has proven anti-wrinkle and skin brightening properties because it both increases and strengthens collagen formation and fades UV related pigmentation. It also has exfoliating properties. Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin which breaks down on exposure to light and air so should always be packaged in an opaque and air tight bottle and must be used with a prescribed period of time. Both a 10% and 20% product is available and I can advise on the best one for you. 

Alpha Hydroxyl Acids 
These are a group of organic acids that loosen old and sticky cells in the epidermis, allowing them to be shed, which corrects abnormally thickened and dulled epidermis and increases the deposition of collagen in the dermis. This increases skin volume, which in turn reduces wrinkles and scars. Examples of AHA products are ones which contain glycolic acid or lactic acid and sometimes citric acid. Almost all patients using these products notice an improvement in their skin. All AHA containing products can cause a transient stinging sensation which does not usually last for longer than 60 sec. 

Hydroquinone 
This is the most potent topical treatment to treat problems of pigmentation. It works by inhibiting melanin (pigment) biosynthesis by about 90%. I am able to prescribe this in a 3-10% concentration depending on your skin type.  

Epidermis
This is the topmost layer of our skin and composed of 5 further very thin layers, the most superficial one being the corneum. It is in this layer that the first signs of aging and solar damage are visible. The cells in this layer of skin are renewed every 15-30 days. 

Dermis
This layer of skin is found underneath the Epidermis and is composed of 2 substantive layers, the papillary and reticular dermis. This layer of skin contains hair follicles, sweat glands and vessels. It is in this layer that you can see more profound signs of aging and solar damage, usually seen in the late 30-40 yr age group. 

Hypodermis
This layer of skin is underneath the dermis and contains the subcutaneous fascia and fat layer as well as deep arteries and veins.