There is much diversity in Asian skin tones ranging from light, pale skin to light or dark brown skin. People with Asian ancestry can encounter every skin problem and often times need a very tailored approach to their skincare regimen.

Acne, and especially inflammatory acne, is one of the most common skin conditions that affects people of Asian descent due to an increased amount of melanin, or the pigment in the skin. Unfortunately, Asian skin becomes more inflamed with deeper acne pustules and papules.

Pellé can help maintain the beauty and health of this type of skin using the following daily routine:

1) Cleanse with a medical grade product that is designed for your skin type whether it be dry, oily or sensitive.
2) Exfoliate to unclog pores and remove surface skin debris.
3) Use sunblock everyday to help prevent post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation, “PIH.”

PIH can cause discoloration or scarring after the acne has healed and is a common concern for patients.

Another option to help prevent and heal acne issues is to have Salicyclic Acid Peels for oily skin and a Lactic Acid Peel for sensitive skin. Pellé Medical Skincare highly recommends these types of peels for everyone of Asian descent.

In addition, topical retinoids can be of great benefit in fighting acne. Pellé Medical Skincare recommends Retin-A for thicker, oilier skin and Retinol for sensitive skin. Both remove the surface skin cells and improve acne and hyper-pigmentation issues. Pellé also offers several serums to calm, hydrate and combat acne flare-ups in Asian skin types.

Because all Asian skin types are susceptible to uneven skin tones and hyper-pigmentation, sunblock is an absolute essential and so is a bleaching agent. Pellé recommends “Rx Skin Lightener, containing hydroquinone, which is the gold standard for bleaching. Services such as peels and medical grade cosmeceuticals, such as White Lightening cream and serum can also be highly beneficial to maintain beautiful and healthy skin.

Pellé highly recommends using a complete sunblock daily, January through January to improve all skin conditions and keep your skin healthy and beautiful.

Pellé Medical Skincare strives to provide clients with only best quality medical skincare products. While many moisturizers and beauty treatments promise to provide “clinical results,” only those products with medical grade ingredients can deliver on that promise. In many instances results are formulated based on a person’s perception of a product’s effectiveness, versus actual physical changes taking place in the skin. This is why a medical grade product is more useful when a client wants to change the health of their skin.

We offer Advanced Skin Technology’s product “Green Cream” in two different levels. “Green Cream”  is a retinol cream that exfoliates the skin while diminishing the appearance of pores. It evens out textures and skin tones as well as minimizes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and even scars. By carrying two levels of cream, we offer clients the choice in how much retinol to use on their individual skin. Stop in today to find out how “Green Cream” can help you have the healthy, beautiful skin you’ve always wanted.

One common concern for African Americans is acneic (acne) problems as well as pigmentation problems, or dark spots, which occur at the site of inflammation. These dark spots are sometimes more stressful than the original pimple.

Pellé Medical Skincare has skincare programs implemented to help with acne and hyper-pigmentation for African American skin, including the following skincare regimen, which is a great starting point for anyone with dark skin.

1) Use cleansers at least once a day on your face. Cleansers are useful in removing excess oil and are essential for black skin care as it can be excessively oily in certain areas.

2) Exfoliate regularly in order to remove dead skin cells and debris that line the surface of the skin and clean the pores.

3) Treat dark skin spots, or hyper-pigmentation with a prescription hydroquinone such as Skin Lightener from Dermesse, or White Lightening from IS Clinical. Your skin care specialist will recommend what will be most effective.

4) Protect and moisturize with a complete sun block. Not only are Pellé’s sun blocks moisturizing, but they protect against UVA radiation which causes skin cancer and hyper-pigmentation. See our blog on General Skin Care.

Quick Quiz: Dark-skinned people don’t need sun block.

False! It is a common misconception that people with dark skin are not at risk for sunburn or skin cancer. Although dark skin does offer more natural protection from the sun’s harmful rays than light skin, no one is immune to the damage caused by the sun. And while darker skinned people won’t get sunburned as quickly, they will still burn and are still susceptible to sun-induced damage, such as sunspots (hyper-pigmentation), wrinkles and cancer. In fact, darker skinned people are more likely to die from skin cancer than light-skinned people due to this false sense of security.

Pellé offers a wide range of sun blocks for all skin types and color. No one should consider themselves immune to sunburns and skin cancer.

To get started on your healthier skin, schedule your appointment today!

Have you noticed that men can spend an hour or two a day in the gym but won’t spend two minutes taking care of their skin? My husband goes to the gym every night to keep his body in shape yet he refuses to invest in his skin. After talking to many patients at Pelle, this seems to be a recurring theme. For some reason, many men don’t think that skin care is a worthy investment.

Skin care for men is just as important as it is for women, sometimes more important. Men traditionally spend more time damaging their skin through participation in outdoor activities and hazardous work environments. Shaving can also really dry out the face.  So in just 3 steps, 3 minutes, twice a day, men can improve the overall health of their skin.

1. CLEANSE
This is the single most important step of a skin care regimen.

Cleansing the skin should take place twice daily: once in the morning upon waking up and once in the evening before going to bed.  It is important to insure that the product being used isn’t so drying that it is going to strip the skin of its natural oils. Most cleansers that produce bubbles with a good lather usually contain too much detergent and can dry the skin out. Using products containing salicylic acids for a person with dry skin can also cause irritation.  A basic gel cleanser tends to work best.

2. EXFOLIATE
Exfoliation is the process of getting rid of or shedding dead skin cells.

Exfoliation is important to unclog pores and prevent pimples or acne and is generally recommended at least three times a week.  For men, exfoliation is also important in helping to expose the hair follicles allowing for a closer shave.

3.  MOISTURIZE
If men do nothing else after cleansing it is vital to at least apply a moisturizer.

This step is often skipped because of the myth that moisturizing causes breakouts and blemishes.  The truth is exactly the opposite. When the sebaceous glands don’t get moisture they often produce an excess of oil to make up for it. This in turn can cause unwanted imperfections to appear on the skin. When choosing a moisturizer it’s extremely important to pick one with UVA/UBA protection.  The product should state on the packaging that it protects the sun from UVA and UVB rays. It may also simply say “broad spectrum.”  There are two main ingredients to look for when purchasing a moisturizer with sunblock: titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.  Look for these ingredients on the back of the bottle towards the bottom of the label.

While there are more skin care steps that are beneficial for men, this basic regimen is a good starting point.  The nurses at Pellé Medical Skincare are always available for a consultation to address any specific skin care issues you may have. Call us today at 272-0064!

The most frequently asked question in our office is, “What is a good regimen for the daily care of my skin?”

The skin care nurses at Pellé believe that all patients benefit from using three core products: Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), sunblock and a Retinol or Retin-A. Each product contributes greatly to one’s skin health. Here’s how:

1) Vitamin C Serum
This serum should be used every morning to protect the skin barrier from free radicals such as solar damage-UV radiation, pollutants, smoke, etc.

This potent anti-oxidant stops free radicals before they touch the cell or cause damage inside the cell. Vitamin C has been clinically proven to stimulate and increase collagen synthesis and is effective against reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

2) Sunblock
We encourage the use of sunblock everyday, January through January, and on cloudy, rainy and snowy days. Sunblock used daily protects against UVB rays; the shorter, burning rays as well as UVA rays which are the deeply penetrating, longer waves, that cause skin cancer including melanoma.

Pellé sells only sunblocks, which contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both. These are physical ingredients that are not absorbed into the skin. The ultraviolet rays are absorbed into the sunblock or reflected away from the skin, protecting you from UVB and UVA Rays. In contrast, sunscreens are made up of chemical ingredients that are absorbed into the skin which merely filter the rays rather than blocking them.

Physical blocks, because they are not absorbed into the skin, are nonirritating and hypoallergenic. Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are non-comedogenic, which means they do not produce or aggravate acne. Zinc oxide is also a wound healing substance. Pelle’s sunblocks contain vital ingredients such as anti-oxidants, vitamins, enzymes and essential moisturizers that not only hydrate but also help to retain moisture at a level far below OTC products.

3) Retinol or Retin-A
Both retinol and Retin-A are retinoids, however we prescribe one or the other depending your skin’s sensivity. They are both made from Vitamin A and promote faster skin cell turnover. Retinoids are some of the most proven, effective and powerful options for treating skin issues ranging from acne to signs of aging.

Prescription level retinoids such as Retin-A contain “tretinoin.” This active ingredient prevents the buildup of dead cells in the skin’s pores and follicles, and promotes the growth of healthy cells. The downside is dryness, redness, irritation and skin peeling. Pellé’s skin care patients are instructed how to use Retin-A effectively, so as not to incur irritating skin reactions.

Over-the-counter products, containing “retinols” are much weaker than prescription retinoids. Retinols are ideal for treating very sensitive skin, and will leave the skin feeling smoother and look healthier than if not used at all.

At Pellé, each patient completes an information form in order to tailor a skincare program that is just right for him or her. It is imperative that we know our patients in order to design a skin care program specifically for their needs and skin issues. We suggest the three core products to get each client started, but also encourage our patients to consider a full medical grade skin regimen for the healthiest and best looking results.

To get started on your healthier skin, schedule your appointment today!

You have so many options when deciding on skincare and spa treatments. Why should you choose Pellé Medical Skincare? For many people, medical spa services provide the best of both worlds: relaxation and rejuvenating therapies with medical expertise. At Pellé, you’ll be evaluated by a medically trained professional who will not only assess your skin’s needs but also prescribe a treatment plan that leaves your skin healthy, glowing and gorgeous.

Our skin is the body’s largest organ, and it’s important to take good care of it. Choosing a medical spa regimen over a cosmetic plan ensures that you’re receiving the highest quality product, regulated by the FDA and tested for effectiveness in clinical trials. The products used and prescribed by the licensed and trained medical professionals at Pellé are stronger than anything you’ll find in a salon or day spa, and the results can be seen in the healthy, vibrant skin of our clients. We offer peels with medical grade potency, as well as procedures like Dermaplaning, which combines hair removal with exfoliation. These types of services can only be done under the supervision of a medical expert, like the staff at Pelle.

When choosing a provider it’s important to remember a few things: half price may mean half strength, and you’ll never find half strength at Pellé. We choose only the best prescriptives on the market, with proven results as determined by the FDA and clinical trials. The products and services we offer don’t just deliver results based on customer perception; they deliver results based on medical fact.

You’ll find that when our services are medically tailored to you and your unique skincare needs, the results will be fantastic. Pellé isn’t like other Tristate area day spas. Under the direction of a board-certified plastic surgeon, owners and Registered Nurses, Chris Klueh and Debbie Gittinger are able to provide you with healthy and beautiful skin that will last a lifetime.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19TH
5:00 to 8:30 PM
AT PELLÉ MEDICAL SKINCARE

Pellé Medical Skincare, in conjunction with Allison Lied Plastic Surgery is excited to announce their annual Open House! Join us for a relaxing evening of great deals and mingling with other Pellé patients. There will be delicious lite bites and wine, specials on both products and services AND chances to win fabulous door prizes!

Specials offered that night will include:
• 10% off ALL PRODUCTS
• $15 off our MICROEXFOLIATION treatments
• 20% off  FILLERS & BOTOX with Dr. Lied

Additionally, existing patients of Dr. Lied’s can bring in a new friend for filler and/or Botox. Existing patients will receive 25% off and new patients will receive 20% off injections/fillers scheduled that evening.

Hope to see you there!

*To receive the discounts on the Microexfoliation treatment and the Botox/Filler services, appointments must be booked during the event.

We’ve got 2 great new products to share with you from Sociéte!

Sociéte Intense Firming Complex
A great alternative to Botox! Recapture your youth with the most advanced mega doses of Peptides and Antioxidants available on the market. Achieve the appearance of reduced muscle contractions with Neuro/Toxin-Like Peptides. Firms and rejuvenates skin with Collagen Boosting Peptides, providing immediate & long-lasting firming and tightening effects.

Benefits:
• Stimulates Collagen/Elastin
• Contains Peptide Complex
• Contains Hyaluronic Acid
• Hydrates, Firms and Plumps Skin
• Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

 
Sociéte Skin Hydration Complex
A light and refreshing hydration boost for the skin, formulated to provide a soothing, calming effect. Vitamin C and Société’s innovative peptide complex promotes increased collagen and elastin production.

Benefits:
• Provides “Anti-Wrinkle” effects with advanced Peptide technology
• Boosts skin hydration without adding oil
• Soothes and calms skin, speeding post-procedure recovery
• Contains Peptides & Vitamin C
• Enhanced results when used with Société Intense Firming Complex

A big thank you to CincyChic.com to featuring the prescription makeup offerings available at Pelle Medical Skincare.

Prescription Makeup: One area skincare center offers a cutting edge cosmetic that blends breathable technology with magnificent makeup that covers and heals a variety of skin issues such as acne and scarring.

Makeup isn’t just for covering up blemishes and skin issues. It’s time to brush up on a new concept: Prescription Makeup.

Chris Klueh, RN, BSN, opened Pelle Medical Skincare with fellow RN Debbi Gittinger in April 2009. They had both been practicing skincare and seeing patients for several years while working for a different plastic surgeon in the area.

“We see patients with all skin types and problems – acne, rosacea, sensitive and pigmented,” Klueh says. “We both felt that we could greatly improve on the services we provided as well as the products we carried without the barriers of being employed by someone else.”

One of the products Klueh and Gittinger have been excited and passionate about offering is Lycogel, a prescription makeup, Klueh says. But Lycogel is about to undergo a makeover of its own.

“[Lycogel] will soon be changed over to Oxygenetix,” explains Klueh. “Both of these products were formulated and produced by the same person – Barry Knapp. He has taken the Lycogel technology to the next level and improved on it. We are very excited about this!”

Klueh says both products are breathable foundations that help cover and heal a wide variety of skin problems, including skin injuries, rashes, cracked dry skin, acne scars, rosacea and other skin conditions. “They both also work extremely well on post-surgery scars and treatments,” she says. “Because of the breathable technology, it allows more oxygen into the skin cell, which allows for increased cell life and tissue growth. It acts as a second skin.”

How does it work? Klueh says it is fragrance free, won’t clog pores, is hypoallergenic and non-drying. “One of the only differences between Lycogel and Oxygenetix is the new ingredient in Oxygenetix called ‘ceravitae,’” she adds. “It allows more oxygen to penetrate the skin which allows the use of the product a little sooner after a laser or physician-grade chemical peel.”

You don’t have to have a current skin condition to use this product either. It can be used for preventative purposes. “It has an SPF of 25, and it is 13 times more transfer-resistant than other foundations, so it won’t run during exercise, swimming or dancing and won’t rub off on clothing,” she says. “Our patients who don’t typically wear makeup love this because of the natural look and glow it gives. It does not settle into creases like the mineral powders do, causing an aged look.”

Everyone can use this makeup, Klueh says. “I use it daily and it is one of our top-selling products,” she adds. “It feels very light, blends into a person’s natural skin tone yet acts as a camouflage.”

Lycogel and Oxygenetix are, however, only distributed by medical professionals.

We’ve been so lucky to have the support of the Cincinnati community. Check out a story that appeared today on CincyChic.com about our iS Cancer Care treatments

Caring for Cancer Patients
Pelle Medical is taking skincare to the next level by providing a medical-based skincare line for patients taking chemotherapy and radiation therapy right here in Cincinnati.

The last thing a cancer patient needs is a skin condition to remind them of the disease every time they look in the mirror. That’s why iS Cancer Care, a branch of the iS Clinical skincare line, targets patients facing skin damage resulting from chemotherapy or radiation treatments. Pellé Medical, a Cincinnati-based skin care clinic is offering these products to patients in the Tri-State area.

With more than twenty combined years of skincare experience, registered nurses Debbie Gittinger and Chris Klueh opened Pellé in April 2009. Together, they treat patients’ skincare needs under the direction of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Allison Lied.

“We see patients with all skin types and problems – acne, rosacea, sensitive and pigmented,” says Klueh. And although the iS Clinical line of products offered by Pellé Medical treat these conditions, the iS Cancer Care line was formulated especially for skin damage caused by cancer treatment therapies.

Chemotherapy is effective at battling cancer because it targets and kills rapidly developing cells. However, the chemotherapy chemicals are unable to decipher harmful cancerous cells from cells that are meant to divide rapidly within the body, such as the skin. As a result, damaged skin cells often break down and become fragile, form rashes or change skin pigment due to necessary cancer treatments. iS Cancer Care contains a powerful antioxidant, which works to battle free radicals, which cause damage to the skin, and are especially prevalent in cancer treatment therapies.

But all patients with cancer are not treated with the same type or dosage of drug, and every patient reacts differently. “Patients are put on specific products based on their individual skin care needs and goals,” says Klueh.

Some patients are very likely to experience an allergic reaction, even to cancer battling drugs. Since appearance is a key factor in self-esteem, Pellé Medical is not only providing a physical service, but a mental service as well. Pellé Medical is showing its support to cancer survivors in other ways as well.

October is widely known as breast cancer awareness month and is characterized by the cloud of pink ribbons which appear in support of those who are battling or have battled against breast cancer. This past October, Pellé Medical ran a sweepstakes where followers of its blog and Facebook page could nominate family members or friends who are fighting or have fought breast cancer to receive a gift basket of skincare products and a Pellé Medical facial.