Skin positivity. More than just a hash-tag
In this day and age, we are surrounded by heavily filtered, photoshopped images of celebrities and models on social media. This might give some an unrealistic view of what ‘we should look like’. With this culture at the forefront of society, there’s no surprise that there is a strong link between how we view our skin and mental health. I am sure my colleagues in the medical field will agree with me on this; I certainly have seen patients in my own clinic who feel low self-esteem and confidence as result. And of course, skin conditions such as acne to name one example can also have a huge impact on mental health. Dr Vanisha and I have been friends since our time at the prestigious Guys and St Thomas Medical School. We both realised we shared a passion for dermatology and treating patients holistically. This lead to the birth of sk:INSPIRE Medical Aesthetics. Our philosophy is to help our patients understand their skin, its’ beauty and any skin conditions or signs of ageing one might be experiencing. Through this, we help promote skin positivity, encourage skin health and help treat any skin concerns you might have. At sk:INSPIRE Medical Aesthetics when we carry out a consultation, we pay a lot of attention to the history; listening to the patient’s unique story, discussing what they have previously tried for their skin, and extracting useful ‘biopsychosocial’ information, whilst ruling out any worrying signs or symptoms. And of course, the skin is a visual organ, so a thorough examination of the skin is a crucial part of any doctors assessment. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has truly changed and tested the way doctors and dermatologists have been consulting…but that’s for another time! Nevertheless, it means more of our patients have had the time and ability to access skin consultations with clinicians like ourselves. Because of this, amongst other reasons, there has been a spike in sales of cosmeceuticals during the lockdown and they have polarised patients. These products certainly have a place in one’s skincare routine, especially when used with an understanding of its suitability, but our doctors, at sk:INSPIRE, can go one step further and prescribe other treatments e.g. prescription-only topicals or antibiotics where cosmeceuticals can only do so much. Skincare is a multi-billion-pound business, with a new cream or serum launched daily, each promising to cure skin conditions such as pigmentation, acne and signs of ageing. However, treating your skin concerns is not just about buying some creams and putting them on. Understanding your skin, why you are using a specific treatment and ensuring it is the correct treatment in order for you to achieve your end goal, are important steps in any skin journey. You might have gathered from our posts that we have a passion in educating our patients on skin and skin treatments. Ultimately, there is nothing wrong with having skin treatments, whether it is for a medical condition e.g. acne, or for cosmetic/rejuvenation purposes. The key is to treat the patient as an individual and tailor any recommendation to their specific needs. More importantly, the clinician should not be reluctant to say no, if they feel the patients’ desired outcome is unattainable or unrealistic. We believe honest and frank discussions need to take place to encourage skin health, skin positivity and help patients understand their skin, its beauty, as well as its so-called ‘flaws’. This is why we encourage our patients to understand WHY they have been advised a certain skincare regime or treatment, and what the key ingredients are, so they can get the best results. On doing this, they can truly enjoy their skin journey. To find out more about the treatments we offer at sk:INSPIRE Medical Aesthetics please visit our treatment section on www.skinspire.co.uk You can also book a virtual consultation with one of our doctors by clicking HERE
Acne Be Gone: A Lighthearted Guide
So, what is acne exactly? It’s a common skin condition that happens when your hair follicles (aka pores) get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This can lead to red, inflamed bumps on your skin, also known as pimples. Acne can show up on your face, neck, chest, and back and can come in different forms like blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, and cysts. There are a few different things that can cause acne. Hormonal changes, genetics, and certain lifestyle choices can all play a role. But no matter what the cause, there are ways to treat it. You can try over-the-counter medications like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, or you can talk one of our doctors about using stronger strengths as well as about prescription options like retinoids, antibiotics, and hormonal therapies. But here’s the thing, treating acne isn’t just about using the right products. Lifestyle changes can also make a big difference. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding touching or picking at your skin can all help prevent and reduce acne. And of course, keeping your skin clean by washing your face twice a day with a mild cleanser and warm water is a must. If you’re dealing with acne, don’t be afraid to reach out to one of our doctors for help. They can figure out the root cause of your acne and recommend a personalized treatment plan. And remember, clear skin is possible! With the right approach, you can say goodbye to breakouts and hello to smooth, glowing skin.
Skin Ageing
Skin ageing – it’s a topic that we all have to face eventually, but it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom! In fact, with a little bit of knowledge and effort, you can slow down the clock and keep your skin looking youthful and radiant for years to come. Think of your skin like a fine wine – the older it gets, the more refined and beautiful it becomes. But just like a fine wine, it needs to be properly cared for if it’s going to reach its full potential. And, the good news is that taking care of your skin is a lot more fun than you might think! Let’s start with the basics – UV radiation from the sun is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to skin ageing. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all day! Just remember to slather on some high-SPF sunscreen before you go out and enjoy the sunshine. And, if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, don’t be afraid to accessorise with a stylish hat or some funky shades. Stress is another factor that can contribute to skin ageing, but did you know that taking care of your skin can actually help reduce stress? That’s right – taking the time to pamper yourself with a relaxing skincare routine can help you unwind and de-stress after a long day. And, incorporating some stress-relieving activities into your routine, such as exercise or meditation, can also help keep skin looking youthful and radiant. Food is another important factor when it comes to skin ageing. Instead of viewing it as a chore, think of eating a balanced diet as a fun and delicious adventure! Explore new foods, try new recipes, and experiment with different ingredients. And, don’t forget to drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated and looking its best. There are also plenty of fun skin care products and treatments available to help slow down the ageing process. Retinoids, for example, are a type of Vitamin A derivative that can help stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.. And, if you’re feeling daring, why not try a chemical peel, micro-needling or a laser treatment to give your skin a boost? In conclusion, skin ageing is a natural process that we all have to face eventually, but it doesn’t have to be a bore. With a little bit of effort and some fun twists on traditional skincare techniques, you can keep your skin looking youthful and radiant for years to come. So, go ahead and embrace the journey – your skin will thank you for it!
Sunny Delights: Embrace the Sun with a Smile and Sun Cream
Introduction: Ah, the warm embrace of the sun on a beautiful summer’s day! We all love soaking up those rays and enjoying outdoor activities. But wait! Before you dash off to bask in the sunlight, let’s have a lighthearted chat about everyone’s favorite summer companion: sun cream! These magical potions not only protect our skin but also bring joy and amusement to our sunny adventures. So, grab your beach towel, put on your sunglasses, and let’s dive into the world of sun creams with a smile! The Scent-Sational Sunscreens: Who doesn’t love the sweet smell of summer? Sun creams have mastered the art of capturing the essence of coconut, tropical fruits, and exotic flowers. Applying sun cream can transport you to a beachside paradise, even if you’re just lounging in your backyard. So lather up and let the fragrant concoctions whisk you away on a fragrant vacation. The SPF-ectacular Numbers Game: Sun creams are like superheroes for your skin, shielding you from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays. But have you ever noticed the ever-increasing numbers on the bottles? SPF 15, SPF 30, SPF 50… it’s like a ladder to the sun protection heavens! Just remember, the higher the number, the stronger the shield. It’s all about finding the SPF-ect balance for your sun-kissed adventures. The Art of Sun Cream Application: Applying sun cream is an art form in itself. From the hilarious contortions we go through to reach those tricky spots on our backs, to the comical white streaks that make us look like aspiring mimes, it’s all part of the fun! Embrace the ritual and turn it into a silly dance routine. Who knows, you might just become the next TikTok sensation with your sun cream moves Sun Cream as a Fashion Statement: Gone are the days when sun cream was just a necessity; now it’s a fashion statement! With vibrant packaging and trendy designs, sun cream bottles can jazz up your beach bag or even serve as a conversation starter. Plus, you can’t deny the satisfaction of smearing sunscreen mustaches or drawing temporary tattoos with colorful options. Sun protection has never been so stylish! The Sun Cream Connoisseurs: Did you know there’s a whole community of sun cream connoisseurs out there? These dedicated individuals compare textures, assess absorption rates, and debate the merits of various brands. If you ever find yourself in need of a sun cream recommendation, just consult these aficionados. They’re like sommeliers for sunscreen, helping you find the perfect match for your skin. Conclusion: As we embrace the sunny days ahead, let’s not forget the unsung hero of our summer adventures—sun cream! With their delightful scents, protective powers, and playful application rituals, these magical potions bring a touch of joy and laughter to our sun-soaked escapades. So next time you slather on that sun cream, do it with a smile, and remember to enjoy the sunshine responsibly. Happy sunning!
