A Skincare Guide for Your Exercise Routine
One of the major perks of a rigorous workout routine, other than being in shape, is that dewy post-workout glow. The sense of accomplishment gained after a long run or intense cardio session will have you feeling ready to take on the world—until a breakout strikes. Sweat and bacteria buildup can lead to stubborn blemishes that make your skin feel less than squeaky clean. Use this guide to build your pre- and post-workout skincare regimen.
Cleansing Your Skin Is a Must
While some studies suggest that the act of sweating isn’t directly connected to breakouts, your skin is still susceptible to toxins if your sweat mixes with bacteria and dirt. The potential buildup from this mixture can clog your pores and lead to the absorption of unwanted oils. Before every round of exercise, remove all makeup so that you can start your workout with fresh skin. Following your workout, cleanse your face and then use a replenishing moisturizer.
Take Precautions
If you plan on running outdoors, be sure to use SPF protection to help shield your skin from sun damage. You should also wash your gym clothes and towels after each session and wipe down any gym equipment before use to prevent cross-contamination. Wearing a sweatband can also prevent hair products from mixing with sweat and dripping down your face, which can alter your skin’s pH. Try to limit the use of hair gel, leave-in conditioner, mousse, or hairspray before hitting the gym. You’ll be better off washing and styling your hair afterward instead.
Opt for Loose-Fitting Workout Apparel
For those prone to breakouts on their back, chest, or shoulders, avoiding tight clothing during your exercise routine can curb dirt buildup. The rubbing of close-fitting material on your skin can cause irritation and aggravate acne-prone areas of your body. Lightweight tops and sports bras can help reduce the friction experienced during workouts. Help defend your skin against difficult breakouts after working out by following a consistent routine. Discover a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs by consulting the licensed professionals at About Face Medical Aesthetics, PLLC. For years, we’ve helped Stratham, NH residents optimize their beauty and confidence with innovative skincare techniques and products. Request a consultation today to learn more about our aesthetic services.
The Seven Stages of Male Pattern Baldness
According to the American Hair Loss Association (AHLA), almost 70% of men in the U.S. will begin to notice hair loss by the age of 35, and that number increases to 85% by age 50. Nearly all hair loss in men can be attributed to male pattern baldness (MPB), and signs of the condition occur gradually over the years.
Seven Stages of MPB
The stages of male pattern baldness are noted on the Hamilton-Norwood scale, as outlined by Healthline.com. Stage I – Stage II: These stages are often grouped together, as Stage I represents a baseline at which no thinning occurs, and Stage II involves a slight recession of the hairline that usually goes unnoticed. Stage III: Hair recession at the temples becomes more obvious, creating an M, U, or V shape. In Stage III, also known as Stage III Vertex, the hairline remains the same, but baldness at the top of the scalp—the vertex—becomes noticeable and more difficult to conceal. Stage IV: Hairline recession advances further in Stage IV, and extremely sparse wisps of hair remain on the vertex. Stage V: Areas of hair loss seen in Stage IV have grown larger, but they’re still separated by a small band of hair that connects the remaining hair on each side. Stage VI: The band of hair separating the vertex and the hair at the hairline has disappeared, leaving the hairline and vertex bald. Stage VII: Only a band of hair around the side of the head remains. Hair density has depleted; remaining hair is typically very fine, and chances of recovery at this stage are usually slim.
Treatment Options for MPB
The AHLA notes that, although society often brushes off MPB, most men who suffer from it are often embarrassed by their condition. While there’s no cure for MPB, otherwise healthy individuals may seek certain restoration treatments such as cold laser, microneedling, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Licensed aesthetic professionals can help their clients make the best choice for their MPB concerns. About Face Medical Aesthetics, PLLC is a nurse-owned aesthetics business in Stratham, NH that offers clients these hair restoration services via state-of-the-art technology as well as treatments to help reverse the signs of aging. If you’re interested in treatment for MPB or other aesthetic services, contact us today at 603-580-5296 to request a consultation.
Are Radiofrequency Treatments Safe for the Skin?
Those longing for youthful-looking skin have several options, from skin-renewing facials to surgical procedures. One non-surgical method quickly gaining traction uses radiofrequency technology to quickly and comfortably tighten skin to help restore its youthful appearance, without scars or downtime. So what is radiofrequency treatment, and is it safe?
What Is Radiofrequency Treatment?
Radiofrequency treatment has been the anti-aging treatment of choice for many women for almost two decades, but it has recently gained more widespread popularity as more and more women have experienced its benefits. The procedure involves heating the deepest layers of skin using a very small amount of energy to encourage collagen and elastin production and cell turnover. This can result in firmer, thicker skin and a more youthful appearance. Radiofrequency can improve skin tone and structure at a deeper level, whereas skin renewal treatments that use lasers target the skin’s surface. Naturally, some women have questions about the safety of using heat energy to help enhance their appearance.
Safety of Radiofrequency Treatment
Skin-tightening procedures use waves emitting a tiny fraction of the energy used for X-rays and other purposes. They’re also highly controlled. Experienced providers use state-of-the-art equipment to target specific tissue to minimize the risk of burns from overheating. The Food and Drug Administration has cleared this technology, and clinical studies have indicated that the procedure is safe for a variety of uses, including body contouring and vaginal rejuvenation.
Try Radiofrequency for Yourself
While radiofrequency skin treatments are generally safe, it’s important to choose a trusted doctor. The team at About Face Medical Aesthetics, PLLC has helped countless patients in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine work towards younger-looking skin with radiofrequency. We also perform other med-spa services and procedures to try to help you look amazing and feel confident. Call About Face Medical Aesthetics, PLLC today at 603-580-5296 to request a consultation.
What Is a HydraFacial?
In the ever-advancing quest to help people look and feel younger, HydraFacial has emerged as one of the best and most versatile facial treatment options available today. HydraFacial is an in-office treatment that can be done in as little as 30 minutes. Unlike other skin treatments, it is almost always a pain-free and even pleasant procedure that can usually be customized for any skin type or desired result.
How HydraFacial Works 
HydraFacial uses hydradermabrasion that cleanses, exfoliates, and infuses the skin with serums. The HydraFacial handpiece uses spiralized tips that employ a vortex technology that simultaneously uses water to push dirt and other impurities out of pores while injecting them with boosters. These boosters are highly customizable and can be combined with other treatments to target specific problem areas that the patient wants to be addressed. Best of all, the procedure usually produces results almost immediately and can be done in a relatively short amount of time—without the downtime associated with more intensive laser or chemical procedures.
What HydraFacial Can Treat
One reason for HydraFacial’s popularity is that it can be used for almost all ages, skin types, and areas of concern. It can be effective for deep-cleaning clogged pores for teenagers with acne issues. It’s perhaps most popular among those looking to reduce the appearance of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, or sun damage. It can also typically be safely paired with injectable treatments like Botox or non-ablative laser or light treatments.
About Face Medical Aesthetics, PLLC provides HydraFacial and other anti-aging treatments to help our clients achieve a vibrant, youthful look without the time and discomfort of surgery. We are a nurse-owned, female-run aesthetic business ready to help you explore your skin treatment options. Check out our current offers for great deals on our treatments and request a free consultation today.
An Introduction to Laser Resurfacing & What It Can Treat
Improvements in dermatological and cosmetic technology have generated safer and more-sophisticated ways to obtain youthful skin. One such improvement is laser skin resurfacing, which can reduce wrinkles, age spots, and other blemishes, while simultaneously tightening skin and balancing tone. Here’s what to know about laser resurfacing before scheduling an appointment.
How Laser Resurfacing Works 
Laser resurfacing is a skin renewal procedure that typically uses intense pulsed light (IPL) or Sublative Rejuvenation to stimulate collagen and elastin production and give the skin a refresh. IPL, also known as Skin Rejuvenation Advanced (SRA), uses a powerful light source to penetrate deep into multiple layers of skin to stimulate skin rejuvenation. The Sublative Rejuvenation laser, on the other hand, uses radiofrequency energy to deliver targeted results to the treated areas while leaving the surrounding tissue untouched to aid in the healing process.
Preparing for Laser Treatment
As with any dermatological treatment, laser skin resurfacing should begin with a consultation with a trained professional. During the consultation, the provider can determine whether the patient is a good candidate for the procedure. In the week leading up to the appointment, patients should avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil or Motrin and avoid caffeine for 24 hours leading up to the treatment. Patients should also avoid smoking, as it can prolong the healing process.
Discomfort with Treatment
Like other facial or body treatments, patients may experience some discomfort when receiving laser resurfacing and IPL photofacial treatments. It is often compared to the feeling of a rubber band snapping against the skin, but the amount of discomfort can vary depending on the area and depth of treatment. Some patients have also compared it to a tingling sensation. After the procedure, patients may have some continued tenderness, as well.
Timing of Laser Resurfacing
Many do not realize that the timing of a laser resurfacing treatment is just as important as finding the right practitioner. Timing matters because laser-treated skin can have increased sensitivity to sun exposure for up to 12 months after a procedure. To counter this symptom, many providers recommend having the procedure in autumn, as patients tend to spend more time indoors during the autumn and winter. Patients should also protect their resurfaced skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Using a quality sunscreen every day can also prevent signs of aging and risks of skin cancer.
The right laser treatment can help patients achieve a youthful glow by reducing the appearance of fine lines and discolorations. For more information about the procedure or our current offers , give About Face Medical Aesthetics a call or request a consultation at 603-580-5296 today!
