Dr. Gregory: Achieving Beautiful Skin

Beautiful Skin = Education and Dedication

Doesn’t everyone want beautiful skin? Although this goal is largely achievable, beautiful skin does require some dedication and education. Few people realize the importance of expert consultation to achieve a youthful appearance. For instance, are you aware that your skin’s needs change with the season and hormonal cycles, as well as age? In addition, different zones of the face may require variations in treatment – in other words, not all areas of the face are identical in their needs. Rather than running to the corner drugstore, department store cosmetic counter or even the local salon, consider seeking the expertise of a professional. Read on for expert advice from two excellent medical aestheticians.

As we bring in the new year, we make resolutions to better ourselves and embark on a healthier, fresher start. We also welcome chillier weather and artificial heat, both of which dry the skin. Thankfully there are simple steps that will help us fulfill those resolution promises and combat dry skin. The result: improved overall tone and skin texture for a brighter healthier glow in 2012!

Seasonal Tip Number 1: Understand that dry skin caused by seasonal weather changes is simply wounded skin that does not have the ability to retain proper moisture. Therefore the skin feels dry and cracked.

• Find a cleanser that will break down dirt and makeup but not over-dry the skin. Try a gentle gel cleanser for oily/combination skin types or a cream cleanser for dry/combination skin.

Seasonal Tip Number 2: Visit a medical aesthetician, who can guide you through a skin care regimen specifically designed for your skin type and condition. A great time to revisit your aesthetician is during changes in seasons.

• You will need an emollient moisturizer and broad-spectrum sun protection (SPF 30) during the day. In addition to a moisturizer, you may consider serums derived from olives, which are a great way to nourish and hydrate the skin and are especially beneficial for sensitive skin types.
• For those who need hydration and corrective measures, revolutionary DNA products designed to repair past sun damage and act as a protective barrier against new sun damage are an excellent addition to your regimen. But be careful -- just because the bottle states “D-N-A” doesn’t mean it is “A-O-K.”

Seasonal Tip Number 3: Are you suffering from chapped lips? Do yourself a favor and read the ingredient list on any lip-protection product.

• Avoid drowning your lips in waxy products that do not moisturize. They often contain irritating ingredients that can further dry the lip area. The more emollient the ingredients, the better they are for your lips. Look for lip-care products with ingredients such as lanolin or safflower oil or shea and cocoa butter. With a little bit of persistence, your lips will be ready for winter kisses.

Medical aestheticians, usually associated with a physician’s office, are specially trained to treat skin disorders and provide the ultimate in skin care consultation and coaching. Consider establishing a relationship with an expert medical aesthetician who can prescribe the very best program for you. Subsequent periodic consultations can fine tune or update your skin care regimen.

Dr. Richard Gregory is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. A recognized author and international lecturer, he received his medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine and completed his general surgery and plastic surgery residencies at Duke University Medical Center. He has conducted numerous mission trips to Central and South America to help reconstruct injured and congenitally deformed children. Service to God, his family and his patients is what drives Dr. Gregory. He has offices in Celebration, Altamonte Springs and The Villages.