(reprinted from July 2002 Spa Finder Magazine)
Mother nature and scientific labs have provided tremendous compounds which are found in many skincare products and treatments. You will find most of them in our treatments here at Spa Gregorie’s as well as on our shelves for your homecare. Here is a list of some of the most popular with a description of what they do and why they work:
Green Tea Extract is a potent antioxidant that scavenges free radicals that are released in the skin by exposure to pollutants and that damage the collagen that makes the skin firm. Also an anti-inflammatory agent, it neutralizes a skin phenomenon called subclinical inflammation. Invisible to the naked eye, it’s another problem caused by free radicals, which attack healthy cells and cause wrinkles, sunspots, and even skin cancer.
Above Ingredient is found in: Cellex-C Betaplex Mask
Seaweed Extract is also known as algae extract, kelp, and bladderwrack. Its high iodine and amino-acid content give it the anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties that account for its reputation as a healing agent. Seaweed extract also moisturizes by forming a protective gel on the skin. Rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, it is also an antioxidant.
Above Ingredient is found in: Epicuren Sea Enzyme Organic Mask, Epicuren Colostrum Cream
And in: Spa Gregorie’s Anti-Aging Facial, and the Detox Seaweed Wrap
Vitamin A, better known as retinol, speeds up the rate at which the epidermis renews itself, thus helping to unclog pores and reduce fine lines. Retinol is a milder, over-the-counter form of tretinoin, the prescription-strength form of vitamin A found in Retin-A. It produces a rosy glow, youthful skin, and even pigmentation.
Above Ingredient is found in: Epicuren Retinol cream, Epicuren Skin Rejuvenation lotion, Decleor Vitalite, and MD Alpha Beta Peel Home System
Vitamin C, in the form of L-ascorbic acid, is absorbed into the skin, where it promotes collagen growth and reduces inflammation, research indicates. In the form of ascorbyl palmitate, it has been found to revers eexisting sun damage by reducing inflammation and redness in sunburned skin. It also has the advantage of being nonacidic and nonstinging.
Above Ingredient is found in: Epicuren Cxc cream, Epicuren Skin Rejuvenation lotion, Decleor Whitening line and MD Vitamin C Anti-Aging Cream
Hyaluronic Acid, termed a molecular sponge, can hold a thousand times its weight in water. By adding tremendous amounts of moisture, this tightening gel can make skin look firm. Also, it has wound-healing properties and is nonallergenic.
Above Ingredient is found in: Epicuren Glycolic Skin Peel
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that may reverse sun damage. It’s also a good moisturizer. One study reported that a 5 to 8 percent concentration of vitamin E decreased skin roughness, length of facial lines, and wrinkle depth.
Above Ingredient is found in: Epicuren Colostrum Cream, Epicuren Skin Rejuvenation lotion, and the MD Alpha Beta Peel Home System
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (glycolic, lactic, and malic acids) encourage the shedding of the top layer of skin cells by softening the glue that holds them together. Without the dull-looking surface cells, your pores are less likely to clog and form blemishes; also, the newer skin cells pushing up are more visible, so your face looks fresher. The few people who develop mild itching or redness from AHAs may opt for beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) and poly hydroxy acids (gluconic acid), which are less likely to irritate but still help exfoliate and smooth out fine lines.
Above Ingredient is found in: Epicuren Glycolic Skin Peels, Decleor Alpha Morning moisturizer, B. Kamins Bio Maple Glycolic peels, MD Alpha Beta Peel Home System, Cellex-C Betaplex mask An in: Spa Gregorie’s MD Alpha Beta Peel
See what these super ingredients can do for the appearance of YOUR skin… ask your Spa Gregorie’s esthetician for specific recommendations to improve the health of your skin and look your best!
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