Issue link: http://www.finelinesmagazine.com/i/1221552
www.ascpskincare.com 9 Clays: Mineral-rich clays include kaolin, diatomaceous earth, and illite. Kaolin's unique properties help it draw out impurities such as dirt and debris from the skin, helping to deep clean and refine the complexion. Skin appears smoother and more flawless. Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring, soft, sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine off-white powder. It is abundant in polysaccharides, vitamins B12 and C, proteins, and essential amino acids. This fine powder helps tone and refine the skin's appearance, lessening the appearance of visible imperfections. Illite is a clay, crystalline mineral that helps remove excess oils from the skin, as well as deep clean and exfoliate. Hyaluronic acid: Sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid) is a natural moisturizing polysaccharide present in the skin that is known to hold 100 times its weight in water. One study published in 2011 showed that after using the hyaluronic acid-based creams, panelists experienced a significant improvement in skin hydration and overall elasticity compared to a placebo. 3 Peptides: Peptides are created when several amino acids—the smallest building blocks of protein—link together. Different amounts of links create different forms of peptides. For example, when five amino acids link, they create a pentapeptide. Because the choice and sequencing of the amino acids are so varied, so are the resulting proteins. Peptide combinations include palmitoyl tripeptides (three amino acids), palmitoyl tetrapeptides (four amino acids), and hexapeptide-2 (six amino acids). For cosmetic use, peptides can have an immediate effect on the skin's look by lessening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improving the appearance of skin tone. Seaweed: Sustainably harvested seaweeds such as Laminaria digitata and Ascophyllum nodosum help smooth and soften the skin, and are also excellent sources of nutrients, containing 42 trace elements and minerals, 18 amino acids, 12 vitamins, phytohormones, and natural antioxidant material such as phlorotannins, sulfated polysaccharides, fucosterol, and fucoxanthins. Pelvetia canaliculata seaweed helps brighten the appearance of the skin, while Spirulina and Codium tomentosum help skin feel soft and smooth. SPAS CARE ABOUT MEN Yes, men have skin, and they care about its health and appearance just as much as women do. Day spas and resorts are paying attention and doing more to make guys feel welcome. From treatments that focus on the specific needs of men's skin to gender-neutral environments (think not so "girly"), manufacturers are creating professional products just for men. So go ahead, guys—make that skin care appointment and discover a new way to look and feel your best. ▪ Notes 1. David Frederick et al., "Correlates of Appearance and Weight Satisfaction in a U.S. National Sample: Personality, Attachment Style, Television Viewing, Self- Esteem, and Life Satisfaction," Body Image 17: 191–203. 2. American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, "New A AFPRS Survey Points to Growing 'Man'tenance Trend," accessed March 2020, www. aafprs.org/media/press-release/20170622.html. 3. T. Pavicic et al., "Efficacy of Cream-Based Novel Formulations of Hyaluronic Acid of Different Molecular Weights in Anti-Wrinkle Treatment," Journal of Drugs in Dermatology 10, no. 9 (September 2011): 990–1,000.