Skin Care Products

What's all the fuss about peptides?

Lexli International — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 19:35:05 GMT

Peptides seem to be all the rage these days - and not just within the medical and scientific community. My patients and Lexli customers often ask whether or not they should be looking to this skincare ingredient to help them reduce the signs of aging. My answer: there is certainly encouraging research surrounding peptides, but it will be years before we really know how impactful they are.

Biologically active compounds that closely resemble proteins, peptides are chains of fewer than 50 amino acids. (More than this and it's generally classified as a protein.) Naturally occurring in the body, peptides have a number of functions. They may reduce inflammation, regulate bodily functions, or even help to control pain.

Within the past decade, peptides have found their way into skincare formulations. Three types of peptides are used - those intended to increase collagen production, those that limit muscle contraction, and those that encourage wound healing. Thus, you can begin to see how peptides may be useful in improving skin function and aesthetics.

Despite all these benefits, however, peptide usage in skincare formulations is accompanied by challenges. First, peptides have a large molecular size and are unstable in water-based formulations. (Most skincare products are water-based. Lexli is proud to be an exception to the trend.) Therefore, peptides aren't readily absorbed into the skin, a necessity if any positive benefits are to be achieved. Secondly, should peptides be absorbed, enzymes present in the skin can break down peptide bonds, causing them to be ineffective. Finally, a high concentration of peptides is necessary in a formulation. Because these ingredients are expensive, product costs rise significantly.

Skincare chemists have found ways to modify peptides characteristics to overcome some of these limitations. But, my opinion is that you shouldn't jump on the peptide bandwagon quite yet. Third-party research is beginning to show some promise for peptide use in skincare formulations but they aren't yet the "miracle ingredient" so many are looking for.

In July I wrote an article for Skin Inc. Magazine that provides more details on this topic. You can read it here.

As developments in peptide research continue to evolve, you can look to Lexli to provide you with the straight facts.

-Dr. A

4 Simple Steps for Great Looking Skin

Lexli International — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 14:26:19 GMT

1) Cleanse
The first step of any skincare regimen is cleansing, which can be done with any mild cleanser. In order to keep the skin healthy and looking good, use enough product to eliminate any grime, sebum, dead cells, make-up and other particulate matter that may build up on your skin after a day’s exposure to the environment, thereby encouraging bacterial growth and skin cell decay.

This doesn’t need to be a complex ritual. Unfortunately, there are a lot of companies ready and willing to sell you numerous different cleansing products, each of which claims a different method to achieve the same purpose. Depending upon the quality of the cleansing agent and your skin type, one product is usually sufficient to do the job.

A popular skincare myth is that exfoliation can occur with products that contain "gentle exfoliants" such as microbeads or microspheres. The truth is that there is no gentle way of removing the thickened layers of keratin. For effective exfoliation, skin stimulation and rejuvenation to occur, exfoliation must be done by a chemical reaction or by vigorous mechanical dermabrasion. Lexli's AloeGlyC® Renewing Exfoliant is a patented maximum strength, over-the-counter, exfoliating product that provides the best at-home exfoliation possible while still being gentle on the skin.

Lexli Exfoliators:
> AloeGlyC® Renewing Exfoliant

3) Moisturize
Every cell in the body needs water to remain healthy. Unfortunately, skin constantly loses water through dehydration and evaporation.

One of the myths in the beauty industry is that when water is applied to the surface of the skin via a particular product, the water will be absorbed, thus increasing its moisture. The truth is that when water is applied to the external surface of your skin, it isn’t absorbed. The only way skin moisture content can be kept optimal is to prevent evaporation and loss of its own internal water. Lexli moisturizers keep the water content of your skin at optimal levels.

Our skincare products do this through the use of humectants—molecules that hold more than their own weight of water within their molecular and chemical structure. When applied to the skin, humectants concentrate water, minimizing evaporation. The presence of water on the skin surface plasticizes and smooths the uppermost layers of the skin and temporarily soothes the discomfort associated with dry, tight skin.

However, moisturizers that simply bind water at the surface do not completely solve the problem of dry skin. Rather, dry skin is more dramatically improved by increasing internal water-binding capacity. Lexli's moisturizers can increase water retention in both the upper and lower layers of the skin, not only by preventing evaporation, but also by stimulating the synthesis of essential skin proteins and oils.

Lexli Moisturizers:
> Aloe-Based Day Moisturizer
> Aloe-Based Night Moisturizer
> Aloe-Based Hand & Body Lotion

4) Protect
The final step in any proper skincare regimen is protection. Environmental factors are major contributors to skin damage and it is important to protect exposed skin.

The major culprit is ultraviolet light. When exposed to the elements, we recommend protective clothing and a sunscreen or sun block with an SPF of at least 15. Numerous studies have shown that sunscreens with an SPF factor of greater than 15 don't provide much additional protection. Sun blocks listing a higher SPF usually contain a white zinc or titanium oxide, which offers minimal protection against ultraviolet light damage.

Lexli Protectors:
> Day Moisturizer with SPF 15 for Normal to Dry Skin
> Sunscreen Spray with SPF 15

Lexli Cleansers:
> Aloe-Based Cleansing Lotion
> Aloe-Based Acne Cleanser
> Aloe-Based Make-Up Remover

2) Exfoliate
The second and most important step in the skincare process is exfoliation. Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells and debris (keratin) from the skin’s surfaces that otherwise covers up the new, living, vibrant skin cells underneath. When keratin builds up, it can clog your pores. Removing the keratin promotes new collagen production, resulting in healthier-looking skin.

Lexli Appearing at Secret Room Events Style Lounge Pre-Oscar Event

Lexli International — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:51:17 GMT

With the Academy Awards just over a week away, Hollywood is in a frenzy of preparation as celebrities finalize their wardrobe, accessories and party plans for the March 7 event. To ensure the skin of attending actors and presenters is Red Carpet ready, Lexli will be onsite at the Secret Room Events Style Lounge, an invite-only, exclusive pre-Oscar event being held on March 6 at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles. As a platinum sponsor of the Style Lounge, the Lexli team will provide guests with some of the brand’s most coveted products, including AloeGlyC Renewing Exfoliant, while Dr. Ahmed Abdullah, Lexli founder and formulator, will offer personalized skin care advice.

Lexli has become increasingly in demand among Hollywood A-listers since being introduced to celebrities at the 2009 Emmy Awards Style Lounge. Among those who are experiencing more beautiful skin, courtesy of Lexli, are actress Kirsten Quintrall who claims she is “ridiculously addicted” to the brand.

Be sure to check back after the Academy Awards for photos of Lexli at the Secret Room Events Style Lounge.

Acne Cleansers and Blackheads

Lexli International — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 06:00:00 GMT

Blackheads are a form of acne. Blackheads are the first stage of acne, forming before bacteria invades the pores of our skin, which in turn results in pimples or acne. There are many conditions that may cause or even worsen blackheads. Some of these causes are the use of topical oils and the use of makeup, and are most likely to develop on people with oily skin.

How do you prevent blackheads? One way to prevent blackheads is to cleanse your skin regularly, as symptoms of blackheads are not always visible. if your skin is left unclean, more dirt is attracted to the skin. Cleansers are designed to remove excess oil, sticky cells and impurities that clog pores and hair follicles.

How do you manage or prevent blackheads?

Inexpensive Ways to Cure Acne

Lexli International — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 06:00:00 GMT

Let’s face it: stress is one of the biggest causes of acne because it can cause a hormonal imbalance. A lot of things can cause stress from work, to school, to our families. But how do you handle this in a convenient way?

Lexli’s acne treatment kit helps fight acne, and is convenient since everything you need is included! Here’s what you get, and how it helps:

Acne Cleanser: Use morning and evening. Apply cleanser with fingertips and leave on the skin for two minutes (avoid contact with eyes). Rinse with warm water or a warm, moist cloth.

Acne Clarifying Lotion: Use 1-2 times per day depending on severity of acne. Massage with fingertips evenly onto the entire area to be treated. DO NOT RINSE OFF.

AloeGlyC® Renewing Exfoliant: Use in the evening after cleansing and applying Acne Clarifying Lotion. Apply using upward strokes (avoid contact with eyes), gently massaging into skin. As you massage the AloeGlyC® Renewing Exfoliant into your skin, the small, green beads of Vitamin C will dissolve, releasing collagen-stimulating antioxidants. DO NOT RINSE OFF.

Acne Moisturizer with Sunblock: Use in the morning to soothe and protect skin throughout the day. Massage with fingertips evenly onto the face and neck. Wait a few minutes before applying make-up.

Tips for Cleansing Lotion Use

Lexli International — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:00:00 GMT

When we think about skincare, most of us are prone to just focusing on the face. Of course, it’s the part of us that everyone sees, but what about the rest of our bodies? Skincare should be an entire process for the body, not just the face.

One way to target your whole body is by using an aloe-based cleansing lotion. Cleansing lotions are made to unclog pores and remove bacteria and other impurities, refreshing and cleansing the skin. Furthermore, results are fairly noticeable right away.

The best thing about using a cleansing lotion is that it is multipurpose. It may be used as a shower gel, as well as a shaving cream for men and women.

Have you used your cleansing lotion in more than one way?

Get Healthier Skin with a Skin Care Kit

Lexli International — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 06:00:00 GMT

There are many ways you can go about maintaining beautiful, healthy skin, but the best strategy is to make sure you use high quality products that are designed to nourish and rejuvenate your skin and keep a daily treatment routine. With countless products out there to buy, it’s a great idea to look for a skin care kit that bundles all the products necessary to get healthier skin into one convenient package.

These products include a skin cleanser that will help rid your skin of dirt and prevent clogged pores. A skin moisturizer will help ensure your skin doesn’t dry out during the day and prevent redness/irritation. In addition, you should be sure the skin kit has a skin exfoliant, night moisturizer, and skin tone & balance to make sure you are taking care of every aspect of your skin.

Body Lotion for Dry Skin

Lexli International — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT

While it’s very common for people to focus on their health of their facial skin, it’s important not to ignore dry or irritated skin below the neck. Whether it’s just seasonal from staying out in the sun too large or the harsh winds of winter, or a year-round problem caused from allergies, dry skin on arms, legs, or chest is very a common problem that doesn’t have to go untreated. While you might see countless commercials and ads for skin care products focused around treating acne or dry facial skin, you don’t have to think there isn’t a potent treatment for dry skin elsewhere.

Just like with facial skin care products, you need to look for a body lotion that is made of pharmaceutical aloe instead of just water or low grade aloe. Pharmaceutical grade aloe is formulated to moisturize your skin without the risk of further drying it out like products that are primarily made of water or benzyl peroxide. In addition, you can find body lotions that are designed to help fight dry hands as well. These hand & body lotions should also be aloe based to ensure you are getting the best possible treatment no matter where your dry skin is.

Using a Night Moisturizer to Fight Dry Skin

Lexli International — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT

One of the keys to maintaining beautiful skin is to have a daily treatment routine. Many people already have a routine in place, whether it’s washing their face in the morning or evening, but most people don’t realize the importance of using a night moisturizer every day before bed. Using a nightly moisturizer helps heal your skin from dryness and decreases inflammation, which can help prevent and get rid of acne.

When choosing a night moisturizer cream, it’s important to pick one that’s aloe based to make sure it won’t further dry out your skin or cause current inflammation to worsen. Aloe will help bring natural levels of moisture back to your skin without the risk of increased blemishes.

Do Anti-aging Eye Rollers Really Work?

Lexli International — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT

I thought I had seen it all when it comes to eye cream advertisements and products, but this one takes the prize. The Olay Regenerist Anti-aging Eye Roller claims to be a daily anti-aging product that helps to diminish eye puffiness, regenerate the skin and diminish lines and wrinkles. Not so much. Why? Well, here’s a few reasons:

1) The skin around your eyes has the same physiology as the skin on the rest of your face.

That means you don't need to spend money on a separate eye cream, gel, serum or roller for the skin around your eyes. Yes, this skin tends to be a little more sensitive, which means that you don’t want to tug and pull at that area, but overall, it’s the same. And that means it will react to skincare products the same way, too.

2) The ingredients don’t stack up.

After closely examining the ingredients, (which are posted below) I don't see anything that will do what the product claims to do. This roller contains a little Vitamin E (tocopheryl Acetate), which is an antioxidant, glycerin, which is an emollient and squalene, which is also a lubricant. Basically, this is a moisturizer. And what that means is that it will trap in fluids that we ingest, plumping the skin temporarily. However, this product won’t do anything to stimulate collagen or help the skin rejuvenate new skin cells, which are the effective ways to treat aging skin.

Don't let the hype fool you and don’t let skin care companies tell you what you need! Check out the ingredients before you end up checking out with a bottle (or roller) full of empty promises.

NGREDIENTS: WATER, GLYCERIN, ISOPROPYL ISOSTEARATE, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE, SQUALANE, PEG-100 STEARATE, CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, GLYCERYL STEARATE, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, CAFFEINE, CETYL ALCOHOL, STEARYL ALCOHOL, DIMETHICONE, POLYSORBATE 80, PALMITOYL PENTAPEPTIDE-4, SODIUM ASCORBYL PHOSPHATE, CARBOMER, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, AMINOMETHYL PROPANOL, BENZYL ALCOHOL, METHYLPARABEN, ETHYLPARABEN, PROPYLPARABEN

Instead of wasting your money on something like this "anti-aging" eye roller, you should invest in quality skin care products made from aloe vera to help soothe and heal your skin without irritation. Be sure to use a makeup remover every night, along with professional grade anti-aging skin care products.

>What other eye creams, roller pens or serums have you seen with bogus claims?