Category: Skin Care Tips

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Healthy Skin Recipe for November

Our Healthy Skin recipes are now going to be part of our blog. This month’s recipe is from Rhapsody, led by Executive Chef Dean Zanella, offers a menu inspired by fresh Italian flavors and the incorporation of local, seasonal ingredients. For reservations, call (312) 786-9911 or visit www.rhapsodychicago.com. Please enjoy this month’s recipe of an Apple and Hazelnut Salad. Here is how this delicious recipe is also great for you skin. Olive oil provides the fats that are incorporated into the layers of the skin to prevent dryness (very important in Chicago winters!). Celery, apples, and hazelnuts provide flavones and proanthocyanidins – both potent antioxidants that scavenge free radicals which normally break down collagen and elastic tissue, leading to wrinkles. A tasty way to smoother skin! Our chef also recommends pairing this dish with a Pinot Noir. APPLE AND HAZELNUT SALAD (serves 4) For the dressing: (can be made one day in advance) ¼ cup cider vinegar 2/3 cup olive oil 2 TBSP honey 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves Sea salt and pepper For the salad: 3-4 red apples depending on size (preferably local, Cortland apples are best or Pink lady for commercial) 4 stalks celery (no leaves) 1 head bibb lettuce ¼ cup chopped toasted hazelnuts ¼ cup grated pecorino cheese Either with a knife or a mandolin, thinly slice the apples omitting the core. Immediately place the sliced apples in a bowl and toss with enough of the dressing so the apples are just coasted. Thinly slice the celery on a diagonal. Add to the sliced apples. Tear the bibb lettuce into medium size pieces and add to bowl. Add half the hazelnuts and pecorino cheese to bowl. Toss all ingedients with remaining dressing (you might not need all the dressing) and season with sea salt and pepper. Divide the salad onto 4 bowls and top with remaining nuts and cheese. Serve and enjoy.

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Healthy Skin Recipe for December

December’s Healthy Skin Recipe comes to us via Food & Wine Magazine. It is for a pearled barley salad with apples, pomegranate seeds, and pine nuts. Dr. Jacob’s tips for why this is a healthy recipe for your skin follows after the recipe. Enjoy! Pearled Barley Salad with Apples, Pomegranate Seeds and Pine Nuts Ingredients 1/3 cup(s) pine nuts, preferably from Italy 2 ounces 1/4 cup(s) plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoon(s) white wine vinegar 1 small shallot, minced 2 tablespoons Salt and freshly ground pepper 4 cup(s) Thyme-Scented Pearled Barley (see below) 1 large tart apple, such as Honeycrisp cored and cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1/2 cup(s) pomegranate seeds, from 1 pomegranate 1/2 cup(s) chopped flat-leaf parsley Directions Preheat the oven to 350°. Spread the pine nuts in a pie plate and toast until golden, about 5 minutes. Let cool. In a bowl, whisk the oil with the vinegar and shallot and season with salt and pepper. Add the Thyme-Scented Pearled Barley (see below), pine nuts, apple, pomegranate seeds and parsley; toss before serving. Pine nuts provide Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, to help decrease wrinkling in the skin. The olive oil provides natural ingredients to moisturize the skin from the inside out. Shallots (containing flavonoids), apples (containing proanthocyanadins), and pomegranate provide potent antioxidants for quenching free radicals that break down collagen in the skin. Parsley contains alpha linolenic acid, which provides anti-inflammatory effects, further protecting the skin!

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New Years Resolution for Better Skin

Tired of breaking all those New Year’s Resolutions by February? Why not choose a resolution you can stick with AND makes you look great? Here are 5 tips on getting better skin for 2012: Cleanse twice a day with a glycolic acid cleanser. Why? Because dead skin cells tend to pile up on the skin, leading to a dull, flaky appearance. Glycolic acids help to gently lift dead skin cells off the skin, and stimulate new collagen formation at the same time. They also help unplug pores which can help prevent acne breakouts. Start a topical Vitamin A regimen. Vitamin A helps to normalize the skin cycling process, and also inhibits breakdown of collagen and elastic tissue in the skin (preventing wrinkles). Vitamin A comes in many forms such as prescription tretinoin (Renova, Retin A, Ziana, Atralin), and there are less potent versions over the counter in the form of Retinol. It should be used at night, as it can be inactivated by sunlight. Wear sunscreen with SPF30 everyday. This is the easiest (and least expensive!) way to fight sun damage and signs of aging! UV rays from the sun break down collagen and elastic tissue, leading to wrinkles. The UVA rays cause brown, uneven spots to develop, and both UVA and UVB can lead to skin cancer. 1 in 31 light-skinned americans will develop basal cell skin cancer in their lifetime, and 1 in 67 will develop melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer. Sunscreen will help protect your skin when used daily. Seek the shade and get a spray tan or use self tanner. When you want to have some color for warmer weather, self tanners are the way to go. They look great fast, and won’t cause sun damage. Avene Bronzant Self Tanner also smells great! Take omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil gel caps). They are anti-inflammatory which helps with acne, eczema, psoriasis, dry skin, and skin aging. 2000mg daily is recommended.

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Healthy Skin Recipe for January

Here is this month’s Healthy Skin Recipe brought to you via Bon Appetit. It is a Pan-Seared Salmon with Pumpkin Seed-Cilantro Pesto. Enjoy! Pan-Seared Salmon with Pumpkin Seed-Cilantro Pesto Ingredients 2 1/2 teaspoons tsp. plus 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1/2 cup shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas) 1/2 cup (firmly packed) cilantro leaves and stems 1/2 teaspoon cracked coriander seeds 1/2 garlic clove, coarsely chopped 1 tablespoon (or more) fresh lime juice Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 6-ounce salmon fillets (preferably wild) 1 lime, cut into 4 wedges Preparation Heat 1 1/2 tsp. oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add pumpkin seeds; sauté until beginning to brown and pop, about 2 minutes. Transfer seeds to paper towels to drain; let cool. Reserve skillet. Pulse 6 Tbsp. pumpkin seeds, cilantro, coriander seeds, and garlic in a food processor until coarsely chopped. With machine running, gradually add 1 Tbsp. lime juice, 1/4 cup oil, then 1/4 cup water, blending until coarse purée forms. Season pesto to taste with salt, pepper, and more lime juice, if desired. Heat remaining 1 tsp. oil in reserved skillet over medium heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Add to skillet and cook until just opaque in center, 3–4 minutes per side. Place fillets on plates. Spoon pesto over. Garnish with remaining pumpkin seeds. Serve with lime wedges. EVOO is a must in your diet. Why? Because it’s great for your heart, your skin, and your food! Olive oil is rich in vitamins A, B-1, B-2, C, D, and Iron. Most importantly, olive oil helps the body to maintain strong levels of vitamin E, which is a great helper in delaying the aging process. You can also use olive oil as face moisturizer since the healthy fatty acid existing in olive oil encourage soft and suppler skin. But I don’t recommend doing this while cooking! Garlic contains active compounds that stimulate immune function, and scavenge free radicals that can break down the skin and cause wrinkles. Black peppercorns contain good amount of minerals like potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Iron is essential for cellular respiration and blood cell production. Zinc and magnesium are especially important in promoting healthy skin. Salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids which have an anti-inflammatory effect on the cells of the skin. It also decreases the production of enzymes which lead to inflammation. Inflammation is detrimental to the skin, because it causes a breakdown of the collagen and elastic tissue. Lime contains limonene, a compound that which helps detoxify cells. It is also a great source of Vitamin C, which is necessary for collagen production. Bon Appetite!

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Perfect Skin By Your Wedding Day

During the month of Love, it’s time to be Wedding Ready! Yes, we realize your special day may not be for another 4-6 months, however, achieving perfect skin for your day may take 2-6 months. Here is a timeline to help make your wedding day blemish free. 6 Months Prior – See your dermatologist to discuss any skin issues you may have such as acne, brown spots, uneven tone, blackheads, and even excessive sweating (we’re the docs for that too!). If you have excessive underarm sweating, there is now a permanent solution with the MiraDry procedure. 2 Treatments spaced 6 months apart can leave you sweat-ring free. 5 Months Prior – Start (if you haven’t already) a skin regimen to help clarify your skin issues. The skin takes about 1 month to cycle from the bottom layer to the top, so it can take several months to get clear. Vitamin A retinoids, such as Renova, are good for pore size, fine lines, and controlling adult acne. 4 Months Prior – Consider getting a SilkPeel Microdermabrasion, or PCA Peel once a month to clear acne or reduce brown spots. 3 Months Prior – Check out your wrinkles between your brows – no one wants to squint or look stressed in wedding photos. Try Dysport to relax those muscles so you look fresh for your big day. One treatment lasts 3-4 months. 2 Months Prior – See your dermatologist if you have any stubborn skin blemishes that aren’t fading. Lasers and other treatments can help to fade them. 1 Month Prior – Get plenty of rest, exercise, and drink lots of water. Your skin will glow!

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Healthy Skin (and Heart!) Recipe for February

This month’s recipe takes care of not only your skin, but your heart as well! This Strawberry Bruschetta comes to us from Eating Well. (http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/strawberry_bruschetta.html) Enjoy! Strawberry Bruschetta 4 servings Active Time:15 minutes Total Time:15 minutes Ingredients 4 thick slices whole-wheat bread 6 tablespoons light brown sugar 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest 2 teaspoons lemon juice 3 cups sliced or diced hulled strawberries 4 tablespoons mascarpone, (Italian cream cheese) Preparation Toast bread in a toaster. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over high heat. Add sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice and cook, stirring, until the sugar melts and the mixture begins to bubble, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add strawberries and stir until juices begin to exude and the berries are heated through, 30 seconds to 1 minute more. Spread 1 tablespoon mascarpone on each piece of toast. Top with the warm berries. Tips & Notes Make Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce (Step 2), cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, microwave on High for about 1 minute (defrost first, if necessary). Nutrition Per serving: 203 calories; 5 g fat ( 2 g sat , 1 g mono ); 9 mg cholesterol; 40 g carbohydrates; 4 g protein; 4 g fiber; 152 mg sodium; 240 mg potassium. Strawberries are a great source of Vitamin C, the essential “connector” necessary for collagen production. They also are high in anthocyanins (a type of flavonoid) which may have anti-cancer effects. Lemons provide more vitamin C, and the limonene compound helps scavenge free radicals which can damage skin. Mascarpone contains lactoferrin which helps stimulate the immune system and act as an antimicrobial agent to ward off infections. Bon Appetite!

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5 Ways to Treat Acne Without Antibiotics

Here are 5 ways to treat acne without antibiotics: Blue Light- The Blue Light treatment kills off acne causing bacteria, decreasing the pimples in a few short treatments. The Professional BLU Light treatments are done in our office every 2 weeks for 4 total treatments. You can also do your own blue light treatments with the Tria Skin Clarifying Blue Light. Be sure to get a $10 off coupon from us and purchase on-line. Glycolic Acid Cleansers and Lotions- Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane and helps to exfoliate the skin and unplug pores. An added benefit is that it is anti-aging too! SilkPeel Microdermabrasions- Monthly treatments with the SilkPeel unclog pores, fade away pink scars, stimulate collagen production, and give your skin a healthy glow. Give Up The Sugar- Sugars in your diet (such as those in cookies and soda pop) increase hormones that lead to an increase in oil production, the primary cause of acne. Choose sugar free or savory options instead. Take Omega 3’s- Fish Oil Gelcaps, such as Omega Max, are anti-inflammatory and reduce pimples as well as help skin stay in good health.

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March Healthy Skin Recipe

This month’s Healthy Skin recipe comes from Whole Living. This Banana-Yogurt Smoothie is quick, easy, and great for the coming warmer weather. Banana-Yogurt Smoothie Ingredients 2 teaspoons flaxseeds 1 medium banana (6 ounces) 1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt 1 to 2 teaspoons honey 2/3 cup ice cubes Directions Place the flaxseeds in a blender and puree for 30 seconds until they are coarsely ground. Add the banana, yogurt, honey, and ice cubes and puree until smooth and thick. Serve immediately. Flaxseeds provide an excellent source of Omega 3 fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory and help with acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema. Bananas provide magnesium, an essential nutrient for the health of the skin and for sleeping well! Bananas and honey help to promote good rest, which improves the health and function of your skin! Bon Appetit!

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April Healthy Skin Recipe

This month’s recipe comes from WholeLiving.com. It’s a Curry-Rubbed Salmon with Napa Slaw. Curry Rubbed Salmon with Napa Slaw Ingredients 1 cup brown basmati rice Coarse salt and ground pepper 1 pound Napa cabbage (1/2 head), thinly sliced crosswise 1 pound carrots, coarsely grated 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil 4 salmon filets (6 ounces each) 2 teaspoons curry powder Directions In a large saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a boil; add rice. Season with salt and pepper, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook until tender, 30 to 35 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, mint, lime juice, and oil; season with salt and pepper. Toss. Heat broiler with rack set 4 inches from heat. About 10 minutes before rice is done cooking, place salmon on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Rub salmon with curry, and season with salt and pepper. Broil until just cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and serve alongside salad and salmon. Pepper is full of antioxidants, while cabbage has an antioxidant known as quercitin. Carrots provide vitamin A which acts to reduce oxidants in the skin. Lime juice contains Vitamin C, which is necessary for collagen production. Grapeseed oil helps with moisturizing the skin and salmon is rich in Omega 3’s which are anti-inflammatory and help with acne, rosacea, eczema, and dry skin. Bon Appetite!

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May’s Healthy Skin Recipe

May’s Healthy Skin Recipe is a Walnut-Crusted Chicken Breast from Whole Living. Enjoy! Walnut-Crusted Chicken Breasts Ingredients 2 slices whole-wheat bread, dried 1/3 cup walnuts 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated Coarse salt and ground pepper 1 large egg white 4 chicken breast halves, boneless and skinless (6 to 8 ounces each) 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil Lemon slices, for serving Seasonal green salad Directions Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a food processor, combine bread, walnuts, and Parmesan; season with salt and pepper. Process until fine breadcrumbs form. Transfer to a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, beat egg white until frothy. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dip each breast into egg white, letting excess drip off, and then into crumb mixture, pressing to adhere. In a large nonstick ovenproof skillet heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned, 1 to 3 minutes. Carefully turn chicken over and put skillet in oven. Bake until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, 8 to 12 minutes. Serve chicken with lemon slices and green salad. Walnuts are rich in Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, to help quench free radicals and stop them from destroying your skin. They also are packed full of omega 3 fatty acids which are anti inflammatory and help with the skin’s moisturization. Eat them whenever you can!

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Visit These Sites For Helpful Information About Your Skin

Your skin is your largest and most visible organ, and taking good care of it will allow you to look and feel great. Take a look at these sites to learn more about treatments for skin conditions such as psoriasis and hyperhidrosis: Psoriasis may be triggered by a combination of genetic predisposition and outside factors. Learn more about known psoriasis triggers on Psoriasis.org. In some cases, psoriasis is accompanied by arthritis or joint pain and swelling. Find out how to recognize this condition early on Health.com. Learn more about how and why the body sweats on the website of the International Hyperhidrosis Society. Does underarm sweating negatively affect your life? Find out if miraDry is right for you with this information from the miraDry website. Read more about excessive sweating and what it means in this article by The Huffington Post.

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A Drink of Water For Your Skin: Hyalis

Ever feel that your moisturizer isn’t giving you enough hydration? Has your skin ever felt dry even though you have just applied a moisturizer? If you have answered yes to either of these questions then I recommend you give Hyalis a try. When you apply this fabulous serum underneath your current moisturizer it will deliver immediate moisture for youthful, radiant looking skin. It’s a must have product if you travel on a regular basis and your skin suffers from constant dryness. If you’re just starting off on topical retinoid such Retin-A, it offers instant relief with surface dryness and redness. This is often a common side effect when just starting off on topical prescriptions creams. My personal experience with Hyalis is that it gives my skin that glow and dewy, hydrated appearance. My skin definitely can’t survive the cold, dry winter months without Hyalis because it helps significantly with my surface dryness and skin sensitivity. It especially helps with allowing my night time moisturizer to penetrate deeper into my skin leaving it plump as well as hydrated. Some fun facts about Sodium Hyaluronate, which is the main component of Hyalis, is that is has water retaining properties that creates a sponge like effect, absorbing up to 1,000 times its weight for optimal skin hydration. This wonderful molecule will literally draw in your moisturizer deep into your skin to offer instant relief and intense hydration. It will smooth and plump skin with the highest concentration of pure, pharmaceutical grade Hyaluronate for maximum tolerability and efficacy. Tip…great for under the eyes! Soothes stressed skin during the dry winter months and following any cosmetic procedure and helps to speed the recovery process. Minimizes the signs of skin aging and helps restore radiance. Use AM and PM and you’ll see immediate results that you’ll love. Price $55 Julie Blecker is a licensed medical aesthetician who has worked in aesthetics for over 12 years. She performs a variety of aesthetic procedures including microdermabrasion, chemical peels and deep pore cleanse. She has a passion for aesthetics and making her patients feel great in their own skin.

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