How Peptides in Skin Care Products Provide An Anti-Aging Boost

Question: Hi Val, there has been so much talk about peptides and anti-aging skin care products. I wonder, what do peptides do and do they really work?

Valentina: You are right, anti aging Peptides are a popular subject, and for good reason.  Peptides are short chains of amino acids. Amino acids are the basic building blocks of proteins and many other different types of organic molecules. They are easily absorbed by our bloodstream, and for this reason, they have become very popular and effective in anti aging skin care products.
Anti Aging- How Do Peptides Work?
There are many different peptides, and each peptide works in a different way to provide an anti-aging effect on your body.  Some help relax facial wrinkles while others help increase collagen production which can plump up fine lines and wrinkles.  When we age collagen is destroyed and is not naturally replaced.  As a result skin becomes thin and wrinkled over time.
One strategy to improve winkles and to make you look younger is to replace lost collagen. When certain peptides are applied to the skin, they act as a signal to tell your skin it was damaged and to make new collagen.
The most popular single peptide for cosmetic use is palmitoyl pentapeptide (Matrixyl). It can be found in many peptide skin products and might be effective in improving the appearance of fine lines.
You can find this active ingredient in many common drug store/department store products like Strivectin and much less expensive products like Regenerist by Oil of Olay.
How to Get the Best Anti Aging Results From Peptides
Remember, peptides are easily absorbed, but not if you have a buildup of dead skin cells on your face.  This can block absorption of your most expensive beauty products.  Protect your investment.  Remember to exfoliate and have a professional microdermabrasion performed 1x every 3 months.  This way you can be sure that your products will perform as promised.
Follow more of Valentina’s advice at http://valentinachistova.com
Email your own question to Valentina: info@dayspaexpert.com

Skin Inc Magazine Interviews Valentina Chistova

I want to thank Skin Inc Magazine for their beautiful article that was published in June. I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with one of their talented writers, Abby Penning, during an interview which focused on my skin care background and expertise in aesthetics. This is the second time Skin Inc interviewed me for a feature article and I want to thank them for their professionalism.

Skin care, eyebrow shaping and waxing are my biggest passions in this industry, and it’s been over 20 years already that I have had the pleasure of working in the spa business. I enjoy starting every day reading emails from people all over the country, people who have questions about skin care, anti-aging, acne, eyebrow shaping and more. I love reading your emails and I love having the ability to offer my knowledge to you via the Internet. I have also had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful people who visit my spa, Aquamedica Salon and Day Spa in Long Branch, NJ.

If you have a moment, I hope you will read the article that was published in the Skin Inc Magazine June issue. It will give you a closer look at my background, how I got started and who were my greatest influencers.

The article is online at:

http://www.skininc.com/spabusiness/leaders/people/46742097.html

Thank you again for allowing me into your lives and entrusting me with your questions regarding health and beauty!

Sincerely ~

Valentina

www.valentinachistova.com

Acne on The Chin, Why Teens Experience this Problem. NJ Skin Care Expert Talks

Question: Hi Valentina - why does my teenage son only get bad acne around his chin and lower cheeks? The rest of his face seems fine.

Valentina: This is very common for teens. Acne around the chin is usually from overactive hormones, something all teens most likely will experience. The overactive hormones produce extra sebum (oil) around the chin and lower jaw line which tends to cause higher levels of acne there.

Your teen should be on a good skin care regimen. He should wash his face twice a day and follow that up with a toner and acne treatment for affected areas. If areas of his face are dry he should use a gentle moisturizer for those areas. Use an acne fighting exfoliator at least once a week as well.

It is a good idea to begin him on a monthly teen facial routine. The facial will help extract any impurities that are trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Removing them during a facial will often prevent them from forming whiteheads later on. Our Valentina's teen facial is formulated specifically for the problems of teen skin, we use all natural, anti-oxidant products.

It is important to regularly clean cell phones as well. Cell phones are notoriously dirty and full of bacteria. We often press them up against our cheeks when we talk which can cause breakouts. Also try to keep his hands away from his face. When oils from our fingers are transposed onto our skin, breakouts are likely.

If his skin does not respond to over the counter medicine, a dermatologist can recommend a prescription to treat his acne.

To see our full list of teen spa services teen spa services
If you have a question that you would like Valentina to answer, send an email to info@dayspaexpert.com

Follow more of Valentina’s advice at www.dayspaexpert.com

NJ Skin Care Expert Suggests Best Anti-Aging Facials Including Chemical Facial Peels

Question: Hello Valentina- what is the best anti-aging treatment? I’m in my mid-30’s. I have a few small lines and wrinkles, mainly from the sun. I want to start treating and preventing any more from forming! Which treatments do you recommend? I heard chemical peels are good?

Valentina: Chemical peels are an excellent way to treat and combat the signs of aging. However, like T-Shirts, there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to skin care. While chemical peels are wonderful, you really need to have your skin analyzed to see which approach will yield the best results for you.

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions regarding Chemical Facial Peels. I am not addressing questions of deep chemical peels since those are performed only by doctors and plastic surgeons. I hope this helps. And remember, make a consultation to have your skin analyzed before booking an appointment for a Chemical Facial Peel. You want to make sure you are choosing the treatment that is best for your skin.

What is a Chemical Peel?

Typically used on the face, a chemical peel uses an acid solution to remove damaged outer layers of the skin. A chemical peel can smooth skin texture and is great for treating blemishes, reducing wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation.

Are Chemical Peels Dangerous?

If performed correctly by a trained professional, the risk of injury from a chemical peel is low. However, you should always be aware that there could be negative side effects from any advanced skin care treatment like a chemical peel. These risks include scarring, infection, swelling, changes in skin tone, and cold sore outbreaks. This is why it is so critical to have a comprehensive consultation with the professional who is performing your chemical facial peel. You will be asked about any medications you are on, medical history and exposure to the sun.

Can anyone get a chemical facial peel?

Most people with acne, uneven pigments or wrinkles can get chemical peels. There are different types of chemical peels, so you should inquire about which peel would help the specific condition you are looking to treat. If you have been taking Acutane, you may have to wait before getting your peel. If your skin has a tendency to keloid, another treatment may be suggested for you. A professional consultation will help determine which peel is best for you.

Do Chemical Peels hurt?

Depending on how strong of a peel you get, you can expect a burning and tingling sensation during the peel while the solution is on your face. Remember, a deep chemical facial peel is a different story. I am speaking of lower grade peels that can be performed in a spa by a trained professional.

I hope this helps answer some questions you may have had. If you have further questions, email me at info@dayspaexpert.com .


About Valentina Chistova

Valentina Chistova is a world-renowned aesthetician and beauty expert whose experience encompasses all facets of skin care and body treatments. Internationally trained, educated and certified, Valentina has devoted more than twenty years to her profession. Throughout her successful career she has provided services to many celebrities, including Mrs. Globe 2001, famous socialite and entrepreneur Ivana Trump, well-known KTU radio personality Michelle Vassage and Olympic figure skating champion Galit Chait Prior to opening AQUAMEDICA in Long Branch NJ, Valentina also consulted with leading dermatologists, providing skin care regimes for their patients. Valentina is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and a CIDESCO candidate (Comite International Desthetique et de Cosmetologie Desthetique), which is the highest degree of beauty therapy certification available in the United States and worldwide. Most recently, Valentina completed a rigorous training program with the Spanish organization Wontersaf, one of the world's leading centers for trichology, capillary diagnostics and scalp and hair treatment to combat hair loss and other hair dysfunctions. Valentina also holds a Registered Nursing Degree from Kharkov State University and Cosmetology degrees from the Kharkov Medical Institute in the Ukraine and the Capri Institute of Cosmetology in New Jersey.

Follow Valentina’s BLOG and TWITER

See for Yourself: Don’t take our word for it, take a virtual tour of Aquamedica online and see why we are the #1 spa destination in NJ.

Sign up for our email alerts and be the first to know about huge savings on your favorite spa services!

Our Spa covers the following New Jersey Counties and Cities: Central and South NJ Monmouth County Middlesex County Ocean Shrewsbury Asbury Park Deal Fair Haven Freehold Little Silver Brielle Colts Neck Elberon Fair Haven Highlands Holmdel Keyport Lincroft Long Branch Locust Manalapan Marlboro Manasquan Matawan Middletown Monmouth Beach Red Bank Rumson Sea Bright Sea Girt Belmar Sea Girt Spring Lake Tinton Falls Union Beach Tinton Falls Wall Old Bridge Eatontown

NJ SKIN CARE EXPERT EXPAINS THE TRUTH BEHIND WHAT YOU 'C' IN THE MIRROW

Question: Hi Valentina, I am a 45 year old woman with sun damaged skin. I have heard that using Vitamin C can help reduce wrinkles. Is this true?



Valentina: I’m so glad you brought up this subject. Vitamin C is one of the most widely used and promoted skin care ingredients. The variety and amount of Vitamin C skin care products on the market today has exploded, making the situation somewhat complicated.

On one hand, topical vitamin C is scientifically validated for wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation. However, that being said, not all C’s are created equal.

Topical Vitamin C helps the skin in two ways. First, it helps your skin produce collagen, a key factor in keeping the skin firm and plump. Second, vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help fight free radicals which damage the skin causing fine lines and wrinkles.


Products that claim to contain Vitamin C may be insufficient for many reasons. First, Vitamin C can become oxidized in the presence of air if not properly stored. When the C becomes oxidized, not only can it not boost collagen production, but it can actually CAUSE free radical damage from the corrupted C. Second, only high concentrations of fat soluble C can deliver enough vitamin C to the cells to be effective. Most over the counter products either contain oxidized forms of C or do not contain high enough levels, rendering the product useless.


In the right form and dosage, Vitamin C can be highly effective in improving your skin’s texture, reducing fine lines and preventing further free radical damage.


I recommend and use Skin Ceuticals Serum C10. This serum combines ferulic acid with 10% pure vitamin C to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, neutralizes free radicals, defends against environmental damage, and stimulates collagen synthesis. This is one of the most well known and effective Vitamin C products in the skin care industry. You can purchase this product from our store online by visiting by clicking on http://www.store-aquamedicaspa.com/detail.aspx?ID=58


Remember, before you invest your money in a Vitamin C product, check with a skin care professional to see if the product is even capable of delivering on its promise. Most over the counter Vitamin C products are not manufactured to stabilize the Vitamin C (prevent the C from oxidizing) or they do not contain high enough levels.


I hope this answers your question, it was a great one!


About Valentina Chistova

Valentina Chistova is a world-renowned aesthetician and beauty expert whose experience encompasses all facets of skin care and body treatments. Internationally trained, educated and certified, Valentina has devoted more than twenty years to her profession. Throughout her successful career she has provided services to many celebrities, including Mrs. Globe 2001, famous socialite and entrepreneur Ivana Trump, well-known KTU radio personality Michelle Vassage and Olympic figure skating champion Galit Chait Prior to opening AQUAMEDICA in Long Branch NJ, Valentina also consulted with leading dermatologists, providing skin care regimes for their patients.

Valentina is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and a CIDESCO candidate (Comite International Desthetique et de Cosmetologie Desthetique), which is the highest degree of beauty therapy certification available in the United States and worldwide. Most recently, Valentina completed a rigorous training program with the Spanish organization Wontersaf, one of the world's leading centers for trichology, capillary diagnostics and scalp and hair treatment to combat hair loss and other hair dysfunctions. Valentina also holds a Registered Nursing Degree from Kharkov State University and Cosmetology degrees from the Kharkov Medical Institute in the Ukraine and the Capri Institute of Cosmetology in New Jersey.

Read more about Valentina at http://www.aquamedicaspa.com/who_we_are.shtml

ASK VALENTINA: NJ SKIN CARE SPECIALIST SHARES TIPS FOR KEEPING OILY SKIN DRY IN SUMMER

Question: Hi Val, I have very oily skin. In the summer, it seems to get worse. If it’s hot outside, it feels like the second I walk out the door my face is full of oil. How can I keep my skin from getting too oily in the hot summer weather?

Valentina: Summer time can indeed be a disaster for anyone with oily skin. The face often appears very shiny and makeup can easily melt right off due to the buildup of oil. It’s especially important that people with oily skin follow these simple tips to help prevent excess oil buildup.

1. Keep your skin clean over summer by washing twice a day. The soap you choose is extremely important. A harsh soap will over-dry your skin, causing even more oil to develop. A gentle antibacterial soap or special cleansing soap is good for oily skin. Look for ingredients chamomile and tea tree oil if you want to go herbal.

2. Use a Toner specifically for your type of skin: I don’t recommend harsh astringents, as I said, stripping too much oil from your skin will only cause skin to produce even more. Use a balancing Toner for oily skin after each washing. This will help dry up oily spots and hydrate dry areas, for combination skin. During the day, blot your skin with a pad soaked with the toner. You will have to reapply make up in between. But you can blog to lift excess oil. You can also blot with a dry tissue or any other clean cloth that will absorb oil.

3. Be careful with moisturizers! If you have combination skin, you need to moisturize areas of your skin that are dry. If your skin is completely oily, you need very little to no moisturizer. And choose a moisturizer that balances oily skin. (link to moisturizer for oily skin)

4. Use a clay masque at night to help reduce oil.

5. Use makeup that is oil free. Mineral makeup works great for oily skin.

Be sure to follow these few guidelines over summer when oil production can be at its highest! Keep absorbing tissues on hand to gently blot excess oil away. And remember, do not over wash your skin to dry up all of the oil! Be gentle and kind to your skin, follow these rules and your skin will be kind to you! 


About Valentina Chistova
Valentina Chistova is a world-renowned aesthetician and beauty expert whose experience encompasses all facets of skin care and body treatments. Internationally trained, educated and certified, Valentina has devoted more than twenty years to her profession. Throughout her successful career she has provided services to many celebrities, including Mrs. Globe 2001, famous socialite and entrepreneur Ivana Trump, well-known KTU radio personality Michelle Vassage and Olympic figure skating champion Galit Chait Prior to launching AQUAMEDICA, Valentina also consulted with leading dermatologists, providing skin care regimes for their patients.
Valentina is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and a CIDESCO candidate (Comite International Desthetique et de Cosmetologie Desthetique), which is the highest degree of beauty therapy certification available in the United States and worldwide. Most recently, Valentina completed a rigorous training program with the Spanish organization Wontersaf, one of the world's leading centers for trichology, capillary diagnostics and scalp and hair treatment to combat hair loss and other hair dysfunctions. Valentina also holds a Registered Nursing Degree from Kharkov State University and Cosmetology degrees from the Kharkov Medical Institute in the Ukraine and the Capri Institute of Cosmetology in New Jersey.
Valentina is the owner and director of skin care for ABC Day Spa in Freehold NJ.
www.abcdayspa.com