Ken Paves is considered one of the WORLD’S MOST RECOGNIZED HAIRSTYLISTS. His new line of sulfate free styling products and his line of clip-in hair extensions has made him a complete hair master. He’s worked with the biggest names in the business including Eva Longoria, Carmen Electra, Celine Dion, Kim Cattrall, Ashlee Simpson, Christina Applegate, Heather Locklear, Avril Lavigne, Jennifer Lopez and is BFF’s with Jessica Simpson. He is also a regular on the Oprah Winfrey Show and has graciously given hair makeovers to audience members.

If all of that wasn’t enough, he is one of BeautyStat’s GUEST EXPERT’s and has answered your wildest, craziest hair questions!

Read on!

DRY HAIR:

My hair literally has a mind of its own. At the roots it can get extremely oily and the ends it’s dryer than a Brillo pad. I’ve been told to trim my hair every three months, but that only brings the dryness higher up on the strands. I’ve literally been scared to get a haircut in THREE YEARS! I’ve tried practically every product and even stopped using styling tools for six months. I don’t know what to do, please help I am desperate for a fix and a haircut!

If you haven’t had a hair cut in three years, then I promise you the moment you do your hair will look better! What’s happening to your hair is this: By not cutting it for so long, you’re allowing the split ends to rise – so what once was an inch of split ends in now virtually several inches. Most women don’t realize you save tons of length on your hair by simply trimming it often because you end up cutting less hair in the end. Now we know why your ends are dry and I can take a guess as to why the rest of your hair is dry as well: you’re looking for heavier products! This, in turn, will cause your roots to get greasier! It’s all about finding the right balance.

Here’s what I want you to do: First: promise me you’ll trim it! Secondly, I ask you to try my hydrophobic shampoo and conditioner from my new Self Help: Care of Ken Paves hair care collection. Both are SLS-free (Sodium Laurel Sulfate). What’s SLS? It’s soap – like in your dishwashing soap. It dries out hair tremendously and weakens it over time!

When shampooing hair, I suggest washing the roots thoroughly, and when conditioning, just concentrate the product from MID-SHAFT down to the ends – skip your roots entirely. Your hair has natural oils that are produced at the scalp so you can skip using a product that contains oil to see if this will eliminate some of the greasiness. Next, I suggest introducing a deep treatment (I have one called Get Deep that you use for 4 minutes, 4 times a week, and every 4 weeks). You’ll see your hair transform! But again, when applying the deep treatment you should skip applying to the roots and concentrate on the ends.

Now that your hair is clean and conditioned, loosely braid hair or create a loose bun on the top of your head without any product in it before you go to sleep. Apply styling product to your air-dried hair the next day as necessary. This method allows you to control exactly where you need product without over-applying it. I always tell my clients to stick to a styling crème, mist or lightweight serum – using the same method when applying – avoiding your roots! Flip your head over and apply product to avoid running your fingers through your roots. I hope this method helps you, and please write back and let me know how it goes!

My hair is starting to show age, can you advise me on how take care of hair that is going on the dry side? I let my hair air dry naturally, but it’s still dry on the ends. Do you have any suggestions?

Hair ages just like our skin does and the best way to treat hair that is aging is to pay attention to your hair and the changes that it’s making. What naturally happens is hair starts to become less elastic and more brittle, dry and weak. This means you need to switch your hair care products just like you do for your skin care. My new hair care line, Self Help: Care of Ken Paves, is actually an anti-aging hair care line that is 100% SLS-Free (Sodium Laurel Sulfate), 100% synthetic fragrance-free, hydrophobic (water doesn’t swell up the strands and fade color) and is the first hair care formula that contains Co-Q10 which actually increases elasticity in hair! I urge you to try out the shampoo, conditioner and deep treatment. You’ll see a huge difference in your hair!

THICK HAIR:
I have naturally thick/coarse, wavy dark hair. It is just past my shoulders and I’ve had the same long layered style for many years (I graduated high school in the 80s). I have used gels, mousse, wax-type products as styling aids for years, but am not sure what the best products are to use on my hair type. I wash and condition every other day and use the above products on those days. What do you recommend for overall styling products? I prefer a “wash and go” style that requires minimal work to get out the door – I work full time and have 3 kids. I appreciate any and all advice!

You’re a lucky girl to have such a great hair texture! But I do think it’s time to update the products you’ve been using since the 80’s! Here’s why: Gel has a ton of alcohol and dries out hair. This is bad for any hair texture, especially wavy/curly hair! Next up, Mousse: This has even more alcohol and dries out hair even more. Lastly, wax is not really meant to use on a daily basis. A wax is meant to slick back unruly hair when in an updo or to create texture (which you already have) and is tricky to use because some waxes are very, well waxy! I think you’re fine not washing your hair every day, if it can stand up to it. However, I want you to use lightweight products – that still provide frizz-control and manageability. You should look for styling crèmes (there are a million varieties!), serums and styling mists that will give your hair shine, bounce and control. Apply them after you’ve washed, conditioned and air-dried your hair. You’ll also create less build-up and keep your thick, wavy hair shiny.

CURLY HAIR:
I have curly hair and am in need of a haircut very bad because my hair is too long and the weight of my hair is weighing my curls down. The salon down the street says it’s best to dry-cut curly hair. Is it really better to cut curly hair dry? I made an appointment then cancelled because I was very unsure of the dry cut. What is your advice, should I have my hair cut wet or dry?

Curly hair and straight hair grow in a different pattern, and the cut should be different as well. To best see the curl pattern, hair needs to be dry. If it’s wet, the length of the hair seems longer because the hair is saturated and weighed down with water, thus, cutting while wet can result in a shorter do’ (and with curly hair that is the ultimate nightmare because when your hair dries and curls coil, you have a much different do’ than expected!) I say, if you’re uncomfortable, go to the salon and have a consultation with a stylist before you commit to a cut. Come prepared with questions and if you’re still uncomfortable, keep searching for another salon!

I’ve been coloring my hair “dark auburn” (over my natural brown turning grey) since my early 20′s, and it’s been pretty resilient, considering. But now my thick curly hair is getting really dry, and short of slathering a quart of olive oil all over my head, I’m not sure what to do. To make the problem worse, a few months back I had so much color build-up in my hair it got really dark, so I had the color stripped to reveal the much lighter auburn lurking underneath…and now that I’m coloring it again, I just can’t seem to hydrate it enough to get my soft, glossy, soft curls back. Can you suggest products for me to try? Or do I need to cut off my over-the-shoulder length hair and start all over?

When you stripped out the color, it is likely that you put too much stress on your hair and now it is weak and brittle. The good news is that it’s not too late to care for it NOW! And what’s more, it’s simple! I highly suggest switching your shampoo and conditioner to a SLS-free formula. SLS creates suds, but these suds strip the natural oils from your hair, making it more brittle, weak and dull. I created a new line called Self Help: Care of Ken Paves that is 100% SLS-free. It’s also Hydrophobic, which means that water is less likely to swell up your hair and remove color as quickly (causing it to fade). I also suggest that you use my color infusions which are styling crèmes with added color. This product will deposit non-chemical color onto hair, thus preserving your color and buying you time in between your salon visits. I hope this helps!

STYLE:

My hair is so flat, are there products that will help give lift to the crown? Also, what’s a good way to “up-do” an all-around chin length?

One option is to get a cut that provides more movement and volume. However, if you want a quick fix, then I definitely suggest using the new hairdo Crown Volumizer that simply clips in and with moldable base wire that allows you to adjust the height of the volume you need! It’s that simple! And this leads right into your second question too! There’s also a new braided chignon in the hairdo collection that easily clips into your own hair, creating an easy already-styled updo for the evening!

FRIZZY HAIR:
I have naturally curly/wavy hair and its making me crazy. I only wash it every other day (if that), and I let it air dry as much as possible since I know that I will use a curling iron eventually to tame some of it. It’s a different kind of curly all over and I can’t seem to keep it from looking like I have a fuzzy halo around my entire head in every picture I take. What do you suggest?

Well, it depends on the type of products you’re using. There are certain ingredients to stay away from if you have curly hair. The first is alcohol; it dries out hair terribly! It’s like acetone on a nail; it will soak up all of the natural oils and leave hair dull and frizzy. I always suggest using products that provide moisture – not grease. So, choose styling crèmes that aren’t too greasy, and lightweight serums that will not weigh hair down. Also, if you wash your hair in the evening, I suggest sleeping on it in a loose bun at the top of your head. In the morning you can apply product to your air-dried hair – this allows you to add the product exactly where you need it, including the frizzy areas!

FINE HAIR
I love the look of my straight tresses, but how can I get volume and curl without having to hairspray like there’s no tomorrow?

I have an easy solution for you! Jessica Simpson has fine, limp hair and she uses extensions to add volume, length and even color to her hair! You can try the hairdo Bump Up The Volume which adds volume to the crown of the head (and has moldable wires to adjust the height of your volume), or you can try using the 23 inch wavy clip–in extensions which add that sexy wave you’re looking for as well as volume and length. And then you can slightly add a curl with your curling iron to your natural hair without having to worry too much about the curl falling out!

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Compiled by Allison McKenna

latimes.com

The taming of the tresses

Get fly-away hair under control with a mix of styling products and chic looks that can take you from the beach to the red carpet.

By Alene Dawson, Special to the Los Angeles Times

June 13, 2010

The words “Oh, behave!” — uttered in imitation of Mike Myers’ Austin Powers’ voice — come to mind when you’re standing in front of the mirror trying to tame out-of-control hair on the hottest days of summer, whether at home or vacationing in exotic humid climes. And though a hairstyle that vacillates between something like a cotton ball and Cameron Diaz’s coif in “Being John Malkovich” certainly has its charms, it isn’t for everyone on every occasion.

Luckily, there are humidity-fighting products and chic summer hairstyles that can help.

Celebrity stylist Harry Josh, who has coiffed notables including Gisele Bündchen, Gwyneth Paltrow and Miley Cyrus, has tons of tips. He’s dealt with hair in all kinds of weather, splitting his time between the Serge Normant at John Frieda salons in Los Angeles and New York. “I’m the ambassador when it comes to frizzy hair,” Josh says. “It’s such a worldwide issue!”

For kinky and curly hair, Josh says the key to fighting frizz is product application. “What most people end up doing is washing their hair, then they come out of the shower, put a towel on their head, and then they moisturize their legs and maybe put some mascara on, and then towel-dry their hair,” Josh says. “And then they go out into the humidity and boom — it’s frizzy.”

Instead, Josh recommends starting with de-frizzing shampoos and conditioners that protect, moisturize and control, such as John Frieda Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner ($5.49). Other shampoo/conditioner options include Kerastase Oleo-Relax (about $38); Pureology Super Smooth ($21.99 and up); L’Oreal Everpure Smooth ($6.99); Redken Smooth Down Anti-Frizz ($14.99); Matrix Sleek Look ($14.99 and up); and Aveda Be Curly ($20.99).

Josh warns against “roughing up” hair while towel drying — it creates static and frizz. “Squish the hair with the towel so that you’re not damaging it,” he says. But don’t over-dry because to fight frizz you have to put the product into sopping wet hair. De-frizzing and anti-humectant products include John Frieda Frizz-Ease Original Formula Hair Serum ($6.99 and up); Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum, 5.1 ($20); Alberto VO5 Sheer Hairdressing Weightless Leave-In Anti-Frizz & Shine Crème ($5.99); Mixed Chicks Leave-In Conditioner ($16.99); Redken Smooth Down Sleek Obedience Anti-Frizz Serum ($17); L’Oreal Smooth Frizz-Free Serum ($8.99); Kerastase Serum Oleo-Relax (26.95); Phyto Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm ($26); and Matrix Sleek Look Serum ($14.95). Read labels and buy for your specific hair type.

When air-drying hair naturally, Josh recommends Kerastase Elasto Curl for its hold power instead of a serum, because serums largely just de-frizz without giving hair shape. For women with kinky/curly medium to thick hair, Josh recommends emulsifying in your hands two quarter-sized dabs of Elasto Curl cream and a pump of Frizz-Ease serum. Start applying on the ends of your hair and work your way up, concentrating on the frizziest areas. For thinner or finer hair, use a smaller amount of the concoction.

Women with frizzy straight hair need to style by blow-drying, Josh says, or gather hair into off-the-face styles, such as a braid. “Hair accessories these past two years have never been better — you used to think of ‘junior’ when you thought of hair accessories; but now Louis Vuitton, Chanel, they’re all making these beautiful clips. It’s a great way to make your hair look perfect.”

For the die-hard blow-dryer/straight hair fanatic: Use serums with thermal and UV protection for heat styling. But, Josh warns, “You can’t get a salon-style blowout with a drugstore blow-dryer because what you’re paying for is the engine that is very strong and very hot.” He calls the FHI and the T3 the Maseratis of blow-dryers but says that the Super Solano for about $100 also does the trick. Major hint: Always use your blow-dryer with its nozzle attachment. “It’s been designed that way by the professionals because it creates shine,” says Josh, who likes the Mason Pearson brush (about $125 and up) and the Marilyn brush ($15) for straightening hair. “Stay away from metal brushes, I find that they’re not great for straightening and de-frizzing hair in the summer,” he says. But for a straight look in humid conditions, “The flat iron is your best friend.” He cautions against overdoing it since using a flat iron can be damaging, but for an occasional special night out, flat-ironed hair can look fantastic.

Josh suggests keratin treatments (such as Brazilian Blowout) for the hardest-to-tame hair, but be warned: Keratin treatments are controversial, and some women report hair damage after use. Never use formulas with formaldehyde. “There is evidence that high levels of formaldehyde can be carcinogenic and can cause allergic reactions,” says cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson, founder of beautystat.com. And even keratin treatments that say they are “formaldehyde free” may use aldehyde, which Robinson says is from the same family of organic compounds, so use caution.

If you wear extensions or a weave, consider switching to a curly texture that doesn’t need styling and blending the faux hair with your own humidity-induced frizzy tresses.

Josh recommends several go-to chic hairstyles for summer:

Side braid

“It’s really easy to do, and it’s really cool and fresh,” Josh says. “The key to making the side braid look interesting is to make sure it looks rough and not clean and nerdy. The more organic and loose it is the better it will look.”

How to:

1) Gather your hair to the side of your head opposite your natural part (if your hair parts in the center you can go to either side).

2) Do a basic braid down one side and secure with an elastic band.

3) Pull it apart with your fingers and let a few pieces fall out, including long bangs, so that it looks casual and undone.

Top knot

A bun piled on top of the head feels cool and can look special with accessories tucked in.

How to:

1) Gather all hair high on top of the head. Don’t use an elastic if you’re going to wear a messy bun unless you have really thick hair (in which case you have to use an elastic so the bun will hold; you can disguise it by wrapping some hair around it).

2) Wrap hair around itself completely into a bun and tuck the ends underneath the bun.

3) Use hair pins to secure so that they disappear under the bun locking underneath, creating a little foundation so that the bun doesn’t move around.

Beachy, wavy hair

Mousse, “my best friend for summer,” Josh says, helps create this look.

How to:

If you have curly hair and are letting your hair air dry:

1) Mousse wet or dry hair

2) Use a diffuser to create a bend if your hair doesn’t have enough. To do this, apply a curl-enhancing product to hair and then tilt your head drastically to one side (so far that hair falls straight down) and gently place hair within the diffuser on low heat to dry, and scrunch with your fingers to create the bend.

“It’s really good to do this at night and then sleep on it because it gives you that ‘I didn’t style my hair’ texture,” Josh says.

For straight hair or if you want to refine your curls:

1) Use a curling iron vertically rather than horizontally

2) Wrap the hair around the iron instead of clamping hair at the bottom and rolling it up. “If you start out at the bottom you end up getting this ringlet like Nellie Oleson on ‘Little House On the Prairie’” Josh says.

3) If you want a little texture to the hair, you have to leave out the half-inch tip on the bottom.

4) Curl the hair that frames your face back and away from the face. If you want a directional look, wrap the rest of the hair in the same direction; for a tousled look, curl in different directions in a haphazard way.

Slicked back and sleek

For a sleek beach or pool-side look, put conditioner or chlorine/UV protector in hair and slick back into a knot at the nape of the neck, securing with a hair elastic or pins.

Whether your hair is chemically relaxed, colored, highlighted or otherwise stressed, take extra care not to incur additional damage and prevent hair from turning strange colors from the sun and chlorine. Products to slick on in the sun include: Kerastase Soleil Masque UV Defense Active conditioner (about $45); Phyto Plage After Sun Repair Mask (about $21); Phyto Protective Beach Spray With Olive Oil Extract ($18); Redken Color Extend Sun After-Sun Mask ($14.25); Leonor Greyl Huile de Palme for Dry Hair ($42); Ouidad Sun Shield Sun & Sport Leave-In Spray ($20); MoroccanOil Intense Hydrating Mask ($30); and Barex Sun Essential Shampoo and Conditioner ($23-$27). For a natural alternative, Josh recommends an avocado and olive oil mixture to slick on instead.

If all else fails, consider embracing your afro-puff. Or just plop on a stylish sun hat and be off to enjoy a summer day.

PROBLEM SKIN:

Ever since I’ve had my first child, I’ve had an embarrassing “pregnancy mask.” I have been to numerous dermatologists and nothing has worked. It’s taking its toll on my self esteem. Makeup doesn’t even cover it. What do you recommend? Please help!

The brown discoloration you are experiencing is Hyper-pigmentation that comes in many different forms, including; sun spots, age spots, pregnancy mask, melasma and/or freckles. Hyper-pigmentation can be caused by hormonal imbalances resulting from birth control, pregnancy and hormonal replacement therapy. Furthermore, ask your doctor whether any medicines you take make you more sensitive to the sun, because this may also result in hyper-pigmentation, if you are not careful.

I recommend staying out of the sun and wear at least an SPF 15 every day, rain or shine and remember to reapply after swimming or perspiring. Alpha Hydroxyl and Beta Hydroxyl Acids combined with melanin-suppressing ingredients work best for daily treatments. Laser treatments also speed up this process. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

Do you have any advice to rid my skin of pits and scars? I also have an uneven skin tone and dark circles under my eyes.

Definitely try gentle micro-exfoliation! The best way to bring back that fresh-faced look is daily, gentle chemical exfoliation with alpha and beta hydroxyl acids to help remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter, more even-toned skin. Skin can appear dull when dead skin cells are not removed. Try the Alpha Beta® Daily Face Peel.

It is possible to get rid of scars. In fact, we recently launched Trifix™ Acne Clearing Lotion, which contains over 20% active ingredients scientifically proven to treat acne, heal blemishes and repair scarring. Farnesol, Sulfur, Willow Bark Extract, and chelators are all important components that give Trifix™ such amazing results. Laser treatments can also work to erase scars.

Dark circles under the eyes may occur for several reasons-our blood vessels are lined with collagen, as they become more fragile and break more easily, which causes bruising or dark circles. Lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking too much caffeine, overindulging in alcohol, and not sleeping enough can result in dark under-eye circles. Not all dark circles are directly caused by lifestyle choices – some people may have under-eye dark circles no matter how much sleep they get.

In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, keeping allergy and sinus conditions in check can help to reduce dark circles. Helpful ingredients include Vitamin K, Vitamin C and retinoids. Look for ingredients that build collagen, which helps strengthen blood vessels, thereby preventing their breakage. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

What is a good product to alleviate the redness of rosacea? I have a magnificent skin texture but in the last year I developed a bad redness and sometimes discomfort. What do you recommend that is all-natural?

For rosacea, try not to consume red wine, spicy foods or caffeine, as those aggravate the condition. For redness, try a cool compresses – or even cold cucumber slices.
As for a product selection, I would recommend using the Alpha Beta® Daily Face Peel. This gentle yet effective approach has helped many of my patients who suffer from Rosacea. This anti-aging product not only diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, but helps complexion problems, balances oil, tones skin, and increases clarity and radiance. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I have been using Dr. Dennis Gross’ peel kits, but I am still battling hyper-pigmentation, can you make any other recommendations?

My studies have concluded that a gentle combination of Alpha and Beta hydroxyl acids, such as those found in the MD Skincare Alpha Beta® Body Peel can effectively fade both sunspots and hyper-pigmentation as a result of sun damage. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant and when applied topically in a product, it can be extremely effective in fading those unsightly spots.

For those getting laser treatments and peels, and/or using bleaching products, it is HIGHLY important to use an SPF daily. All of these therapies make your skin more susceptible to sun damage. I would recommend an SPF 30 or higher, applied in the morning, and 30 minutes prior to any sun exposure.

Because bleaching creams increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, it’s best to use them at night. Apply them to completely dry skin one hour before bed so the cream cannot slide into your eyes. If irritation occurs, bring your treatment down a few notches until you can accurately gauge how much is too much. And as always, notify a doctor or a dermatologist of any adverse reactions. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I’m 52 with aging skin, but still get milias, quite frequently, and they stay around for almost a year or so, I use an exfoliating wash and some mild home peels, what can I do?

Milia are a common skin condition that consists of little white bumps that usually occur in the fragile eye area; however, they can also appear across the upper cheeks. Milia are caused by using creams that are too heavy for the skin. Gentle exfoliation with Alpha Hydroxyl and Beta Hydroxyl acids might improve the condition, which can be found in the Alpha Beta® Daily Face Peel. To have the milia removed completely you will need to see a dermatologist.

For the future, invest in an eye cream that will hydrate the sensitive under-eye area without being too heavy, such as the Continuous Eye Hydration Advanced Technology. I specifically formulated this product so that it would not cause Milia. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

Where should I go to have a mole removed from my face-a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon? I’m afraid to use an over-the-counter product since the mole is in the middle of my forehead.

I recommend taking a vvisit to your dermatologist for a yearly skin-check. I also recommend a self examination every 3 months. It’s as simple as looking at each part of your body, front and back, for any new moles or moles that seem to be changing in shape, color, or size. The best way to differentiate a potential tumor versus a harmless mole is in looking for the A, B, C, D’s – it is the most effective method because it increases your chance of early detection.

Look out for:
A= Asymmetry
B= Borders that are jagged
C= Color- If it is changing/more than one
D= Diameter- if it is greater than a pencil eraser

Are there any products on the market for stretch marks and spider veins that actually work?

The Lira Laser has been successful in treating spider veins and broken capillaries in the leg. A series of 4 to 6 treatments is recommended. There have been many new developments in the laser field that have proven to have better results.
Sclerotherapy is a simple procedure to improve the appearance of the legs by removing clusters of the small, thin veins that lie close to the skin (spider veins) and small varicose veins on the upper leg, thigh, calf and ankle. A solution is injected into these veins, causing them to collapse and fade. Repeated sessions (two or more) produce permanent results, although spider and varicose veins may arise in other parts of the legs.
Vitamin K can decrease the appearance of bruises and spider veins. It also works to help prevent against the leakage of the blood vessels. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

OILY/DRY/SENSITIVE SKIN

How can I keep my oily skin not looking so shiny when I have makeup on?

Try Trifix™ Acne Clearing Lotion, which contains colloidal sulfur to fight oil production. Apply the lotion after cleansing and before your makeup application, it acts as a matifier. Vvisit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I have very oily skin with breakouts. Can you make any recommendations on how to control this?

I recommend the All-Over Blemish Solution, which goes deep into the skin to disband to unclog pores while delivering active ingredients. All-Over Blemish Solution is an excellent pore-minimizer. Many of my patients use this product every morning as a make-up primer.

I would also you recommend you use Trifix™ Acne Clearing Lotion, which contains three natural acne-fighting ingredients – colloidal sulfur, farnesol (natural alternative to salicylic acid) and willow bark extract (natural alternative to benzoyl peroxide). With over 20% active ingredients, Trifix™ is scientifically proven to treat acne, heal blemishes and repair scarring. This is great for oily skin, and provides a flawless, matte finish- perfect for layering make up.

Lastly, remember that treatment has to be consistent. Prevention is really the best treatment because it is important to realize that a blemish can begin to form up to 2 to 3 weeks before it appears on the surface of the skin. Adult acne is a chronic, gradual, ongoing process. Use acne-fighting products and take care of your skin on a regular basis. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I have an oily T-Zone and cheeks that are normal. Is there a scrub out there that would benefit both skin types? I prefer a product with a light texture. What would you suggest?

Exfoliating masks or scrubs can often be harsh and leave skin irritated. Instead I recommend gentle microexfoliation™ on a daily basis with a combination of Alpha and Beta Hydroxyl acids to revive skin and create radiant, even-toned complexion. Using a daily peel, such as the Alpha Beta® Daily Face Peel at home and alternating with a stronger chemical professional peel once a month, will help boost collagen production and reverse the trend of collagen breakdown. Exfoliation in little amounts every day will be most effective instead of radical amounts which can be harsh and cause redness since the skin is not tolerant of such acids at those high levels. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

Do you have any good tips to manage skin’s sensitivity-environmental in particular?

If you are prone to redness, avoid spicy foods, red wine & caffeine. Both spicy foods and red wine can cause facial redness and aggravate rosacea…even among those who have it to a minor degree. Also, be careful with salt and alcohol consumption. Salt collects in the skin and brings water, which in turn causes puffiness. Alcohol causes blood vessels to become leaky, so the water exits skin, causing puffiness in vulnerable, or delicate spots, like the under eye area. Avoid processed foods and sugars if you can—I believe raw food added to the diet helps the skin as well. Sulfur-rich foods are good for the skin. Take omega fatty acid supplements (fish-oils).

Products with sulfur or glycolic acid, when overused on sensitive skin can create redness. You should also minimize your exposure to temperature fluctuations such as hot baths, etc. and avoid temperature extremes. Of course, always wear SPF! Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I get eczema and wondered what causes it and how to avoid getting it? What products can I use to relieve it?

Eczema can be defined as an inflammation of the skin that is irritated so skin appears dry, red, flaky and itchy. It is not considered an infection because there is no bacterium present. For mild cases, I recommend an intense facial moisturizer such as the Hydra-Pure™ Intense Moisture Cream. Heavy metals found in tap water (such as iron, lead, zinc, copper and magnesium) can irritate skin that is already prone to eczema. The above product contains a chelator (key-lay-tor) which sequesters heavy metals from the tap water and prevents them from doing further damage. I also recommend a mild cleanser such as the All-In-One Facial Cleanser with Toner.

As a dermatologist, I see plenty of patients who have had eczema as children and continue to have the condition as adults. Like allergies and asthma, the condition does seem to improve with age. The immune system changes and becomes less hyper-sensitive as an adult. There are some people who only have flare-ups in the springtime with increased levels of pollen or during the cold temperatures of the winter months. See a dermatologist when the itching is profound or when the rash covers a broader area than just a few spots on the body. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I have extremely dry skin and I am fighting wrinkles. I have some wonderful Olay products, but I haven’t used their toner. Should I be using the toner? What do you suggest?

I advise my patients to select a toner with alcohol-free ingredients to prevent stripping of the skin. You may also want to consider a multi-functional product that includes a toner, like our All-in-One Cleanser with Toner, which gently removes makeup without harming the skin. It is applied to dry skin with wet hands to maximize cleansing properties. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

ANTI AGING

What lifting and firming cream on the market really works best?

Your best bet is to select a cream that has the following ingredients, which are known to provide a firming effect.

-Peptides (Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide) – Protein derivatives that firm and tone the skin; increase collagen synthesis.
-Retinols – Stimulate collagen production/cell growth and inhibit breakdown.
-GABA (amino butyric acid) – Immediate tightening and long term effects.
-Vitamin C – Potent antioxidant that helps prevent collagen breakdown; produces collagen.
-Centella Asiatica – Firms, soothes and repairs skin.
-Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic/Malic Acids – Help build elastin and collagen (long-term firming, particularly when using a 2-step product such as the Alpha Beta® Face Peel)
Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

What would you say is the best active ingredient for fine lines? There is so much info out there and so many actives, you can’t possibly use them all!

Use products with active anti-aging ingredients, specifically Vitamin C and Alpha Hydroxyl acids, in pads, gels, and serums that won’t add unnecessary oil to skin. Over the counter topical supplements can be just as effective as a prescription for some people. Remember to start your anti-aging regimen off with the least aggressive at-home procedures and over-the-counter products. Then you can gradually work your way up the ladder in terms of aggressiveness to prescription products and in-office treatments, if need be.

Believe it or not, retraining ourselves not to make some very basic facial expressions, such as scowling, can make all the difference in minimizing the appearance of lines. Whenever we feel tense or angry, if we consciously take a moment to take a few deep breaths, it will not only benefit our psyche and ability to make a clear decision, but also our skin, since it will force us to relax our facial muscles. Taking B-complex vitamins or so-called stress tabs have also been shown to ease tension. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I’m 35 and starting to get wrinkles around my eyes. What’s the best for that?

Kick off your anti-aging regimen by using a moisturizing under-eye cream or gel. Typically, the eye area is the first part of the face to look a little worse for wear, because the skin there is especially thin and so more prone to the lines caused by wear and tear and sun damage. Treat lines around the eyes with a moisturizing eye cream that also contains antioxidants, Vitamin C and retinol. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

What is a good wrinkle cream?

Active ingredients for home skin care products have reached a sophisticated level and can reduce and prevent wrinkles but you must a) know what ingredients to look for, and b) use products with multiple active ingredients in them. The days of one active ingredient are passé. For example, Genestein reduces collagen breakdown; Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that builds and stimulates collagen; Retinol also helps reduce collagen breakdown. In your forties and fifties, it is especially important to look for moisturizers that contain Hyaluronic Acid. This ingredient actually brings water from the atmosphere into your skin, so it will look plumper and firmer. This age group is also prone to redness and irritation, so look for products that include Green Tea Extract. It soothes the skin, and studies show it can help prevent skin cancer. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I have very delicate skin on my hands, and often notice freckles and age spots from the sun. We always think about applying sunscreen to our faces and body, but is there a good product out there such as a hand lotion or cream that contains sunscreen for your hands?

There are many sunscreen application types – lotion, spray, sticks, and packettes. I recommend you experiment until you find one that you like. It is important that you find a sunscreen or application method that you like, because you will not use sunscreen if you don’t like it. Powerful Sun Protection SPF 30 Daily Sunscreen Towelettes are a convenient option – the portable towelettes are easy to take on the go.

Get in the habit of wearing sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher EVERY DAY, even in the winter and even when you are not planning to spend a lot of time outdoors. Research shows that a substantial amount of premature aging comes from incidental sun exposure when we’re unaware of it – such as when we’re out shopping or even grabbing lunch. Wearing sunscreen every day will help to prevent the signs of premature aging. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

ACNE

Hi, I’m 36 years old, I have adult acne and my skin is very dry. I wear top of the line makeup and I still breakout. I would like to try your line of skincare, where can I buy products?

Adult acne is also often associated with dry skin which can exacerbate an existing acne condition. When the skin is dry, the dead skin cells flake off and can further block pores that already have an oil flow problem incubating the bacteria and leading to acne. These clogged pores aka “flat acne” may result in the form of blackheads or they may simply appear as enlarged pores on the skins surface-this is generally the beginning stages of acne.

I’m happy you are eager to start a skincare regimen to treat your condition. My products can be purchased on dgskincare.com. You can always visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I’m a man, I shave my head bald and I found that I develop pimples on the back of my head. Is there anything I can use to control that? Are they ingrown hairs?

Body acne is similar to the acne you get on your face, oil glands (pores) fill or clog with oil and bacteria get trapped in that canal. The germs reproduce and pimples form on the skin’s surface. It is important to cleanse the skin and I recommend an antibacterial body wash used in conjunction with the Alpha Beta® Daily Body Peel. The Alpha Beta® Daily Body Peel is a two-step system used to treat and prevent problems such as acne and helps diminish ingrown hairs. It was developed to help open clogged oil glands and microexfoliate away ingrown hairs. Another good idea would be to steam the area before applying. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

I’m 37 years old, I have combination skin with an oily t-zone and I tend to get acne on my chin area. I also have fine lines around eyes, lips, smile lines and the 11′s. Is there anything you can recommend for both of my conditions?

For the acne on your chin area, try Trifix™ Acne Clearing Lotion, with over 20% active ingredients including colloidal sulfur, farnesol (natural alternative to salicylic acid) and willow bark extract (natural alternative to benzoyl peroxide) – it is scientifically proven to treat acne, heal blemishes and repair scarring. Do not over-cleanse or use a drying cleanser as that can exacerbate the breakout problem. Try All-In-One Cleansing Foam.

If you are concerned about fine lines , try incorporating exfoliating acids into your daily skin-care regiment. Using a daily peel, such as the Alpha Beta® Daily Face Peel at home and alternating with a stronger chemical professional peel once a month, will help boost collagen production and reverse the trend of collagen breakdown. Boosting collagen also helps treat acne scars. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

PUFFY EYES/DARK CIRCLES

I’m 52 years old and I don’t have many fine lines and wrinkles, just a few crow’s feet. I do, however, have puffy eyes and I can’t seem to use the right products. I need help, what can I do?

Puffy eyes can be caused by too much salt or alcohol. Salt collects in the skin and brings water, which in turn causes puffiness. Alcohol causes blood vessels to become leaky, so the water exits skin, causing puffiness in vulnerable, or delicate spots, like the under eye area. Lift & Lighten Eye Cream can help reduce puffiness and swelling. You can also try an old trick that works-freezing either green or white tea bags and apply them directly to the eye area. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

Do you have any recommendations for an eye cream that helps with minimal upper eye lid droopiness?

There are many ingredients out there that can dramatically improve the look of aging skin. It is best to use products with a diverse cocktail of Antioxidants (Antioxidant Firming Face Serum), Vitamins C & E, Lycopenes, Green Tea, Grape Seed Extract, etc. They will help to fight the free radicals that breakdown collagen.

Chelators are another set of ingredients to look for. Their primary function is to prevent the harmful unbound metals (found on the skin from tap water and perspiration) from causing redness, irritation, and even aging. They also help to keep skin healthy and to increase the efficacy of other skincare products used in a daily regime. Chelators allow you to extract, in a healthy way, the minerals that the skin needs while removing the harmful minerals that it does not. Try the Hydra-Pure® Firming Eye Cream. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

What are the best products to eliminate dark circles?

Dark circles occur for several reasons. Our blood vessels are lined with collagen and as we age the quality diminishes, causing the blood vessels to become fragile and break more easily, which is what causes bruising or circles. The number one thing we can do is get more sleep! When the skin is getting less than optimum fuel, it can become dull and pale with dark under-eye circles. Lack of sleep can be so stressful that it actually causes our bodies, including our skin, to generate free radicals. In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, keeping allergy and sinus conditions in check can help to reduce dark circles. Helpful ingredients include Vitamin K, Vitamin C and retinoids. Look for ingredients that build collagen, which helps strengthen blood vessels, thereby preventing their breakage. You can also try freezing green tea bags and putting them on your eyes for 15 minutes before you go to sleep. Lift & Lighten Eye Cream will also help. Visit us on Facebook at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for more skincare updates and advice!

Compiled by Allison McKenna

A 4 step series of shampoo, conditioner, masque, and leave-in cream complex, we saw immediate results in our hair’s quality after 1 use of each product.

Before

After

The shampoo and conditioner are pretty self-explanatory. If you’re looking to cut costs, consider bypassing the shampoo and splurging on one of the deep conditioning treatments. We absolutely noticed a healthy shine after using the conditioner, but in order to really repair our fried ends, we applied the hair masque and let it sit for about 10 minutes. The goal of the masque is to restore strength and increase elasticity, particularly in highly damaged hair that’s seen its share of over-processing and coloring. While the masque isn’t for daily use, it doesn’t need to be used in conjunction with the conditioner unless you’re looking to do some serious fixing of split ends and dried-out hair. We’d recommend this for frequent hair straighteners like ourselves!

The mending complex is a leave-in conditioner that serves as a barrier against everyday damage, such as endless blow drying, straightening, and pollution. Consider the damage you inflict on your hair by clamping it in a thousand degree flat iron. You wouldn’t shove your hand in an oven without a potholder on, would you? The mending complex is basically just that- a source of protection against the damage we inflict on our hair. It seals the cuticle, and gives you that bouncy, straight-out-of-the-salon hair.

The mending shampoo retails for $28. The mending conditioner retails for $31. The mending masque retails for $36. The mending complex retails for $33. For more information, visit www.bumbleandbumble.com.

In this amazingly techno-beauty age where sunscreens now come in the form of soaps and spritzers, leaving the house without some form of UVA/UVB protection is no longer acceptable. Especially if you’re freckled with skin a la Julianne Moore or even the lassie Lindsay — and even if you have skin as dark and mocha pretty as Halle Berry’s, don’t leave home without that SPF.

Especially for your hair.

Which brings me to a very timely and laudable launch by REDKEN called “Color Extend Sun Solar Screen SPF 12.” It’s a lightweight, leave-in serum that strengthens and protects sun damaged and flustered hair. It’s particularly recommended for people who have side/middle and fringe parts.

This Redken Sun Solar Screen with SPF is a great lightweight oil that you apply to your exposed scalp and hair to prevent burning and peeling. When you apply it, the hair becomes coated with UV filters, and the company’s exclusive Interbond Conditioning System deliver nutrients like Ceramide (that strengthen), and Mango Oil (that hydrates).

How do you use this marvelous orange bottle? Spray onto damp hair or dry hair a half hour before you skip out into the sun. $16 at Redken.com or Redken salons.