Manhattan Beach Dermatology

Skin Care Products

Elta MD Sunscreen
All Elta MD sun care products contain zinc oxide as their main sun light filter. Zinc oxide containing sunscreens are considered to be the safest and most effective because they block the broadest spectrum of UVA and UVB light with fewer potentially hazardous chemicals as compared to conventional sunscreens. Zinc oxide is called a "chemical-free sunscreen" because zinc is an inert metal that stays on the skin surface and reflects away light without being absorbed by the body. Zinc oxide is safe enough even for babies -- it's the main ingredient in most diaper rash ointments. The latest technology involves micronized zinc oxide, where the particles are smaller so zinc blends in nicely without making your skin look pasty white. There are products for acne prone/oily skin, dry skin, allergic/sensitive skin, sweat proof for outdoor activities, and more. Two recent formulations include Elta UV Clear, a lightweight version for acne sufferers that contains niacinamide to reduce inflammation, and Elta UV Spray, a first of its kind waterproof zinc oxide spray for outdoor activities. More information is available at www.eltamd.com

ISDIN
Because reapplying sunscreen often throughout the day is so important to protect your skin, Manhattan Beach Dermatology carries ISDIN, the mineral brush sun protection line.
Photoaging defense: anytime, anywhere
Mineral Brush provides on-the-go protection against the visible signs of photoaging: the ideal complement to your daily sun protection and skincare routine. A silky, smooth, fine powder containing 24% titanium dioxide, 20% zinc oxide, 27% mica and 6% iron oxides that provide protection against free radical pollution damage, blue light and infrared radiation (IR). Take it with you for photoaging defense and matte, natural coverage wherever you go!

Sunbusters sun protective shirts for children
Of the healthiest things you can do as a parent is to protect your children's skin from the sun, thereby decreasing their development of moles and subsequent skin cancers. Manhattan Beach Dermatology has researched many brands of swim shirts or surfer's rash guards and discovered that one of the best for kids is from a company called Sunbusters. This company was founded by two moms, one Australian and one Californian, who wanted the most effective sunprotection for their kids but also clothing that is fun and fashionable. This is the only children's line recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, and rigorous testing is done to earn this seal of approval.

Obagi Nu-Derm System
This prescription system has been formulated to decrease the signs of aging at the cellular level. It improves cellular skin function, minimizes the signs of premature aging, and reduces future photodamage. It also reduces acne flares and helps skin look and act younger and healthier. Using a specific dose and frequency that's recommended specifically by your skin care professional for your skin condition, the prescription-strength system exfoliates old skin leaving healthy, new skin that looks rejuvenated and youthful. This corrective system is particularly effective for hyperpigmentation from hormones, pregnancy, and past sun exposure. Go to www.Obagi.com for video testimonials on how Obagi products can truly transform your skin.

Manhattan Beach Dermatology Skin Care
Products by Manhattan Beach Dermatology contain active ingredients that provide patients with targeted preventive, protective, and corrective treatments designed to address special needs such as environmental damage, hyperpigmentation such as melasma, and acne. Examples include a combination hydroquinone/tretinoin cream for hyperpigmentation, exfoliating cleansers and pads for acne and oily skin, and a glycolic body lotion for severely dry skin. During a consultation for your condition, our staff will determine the best combination of cleansers, toners, and more advanced topical agents to best restore your skin.

Latisse
Latisse solution is a topically applied growth treatment for hypotrichosis (inadequate or not enough eyelashes). It is the first FDA-approved treatment clinically proven to grow lashes, and it is the first lash growth product of its kind available by prescription. Latisse grows your eyelashes longer, fuller and darker. It is a once-nightly treatment that you apply to the base of your upper eyelashes. Then, gradually, the results come in. You may start to see more length in as little as 4 weeks and you should achieve full growth in 16 weeks. It’s not an illusion of growth. It’s real lash growth.

Latisse makes lash growth possible because of its active ingredient: bimatoprost. Although the precise mechanism of action is unknown, Latisse is believed to affect the growth (anagen) phase of the eyelash hair cycle in two ways: first, it increases the length of this phase, and second, it increases the number of hairs in this growth phase. Allergan, the manufacturers of Botox, first used the active ingredient in Latisse as a medicated eye drop to treat glaucoma. Many patients using this medication also began to grow longer, fuller and darker lashes as a side effect. This led Allergan to study the medication's active ingredient, bimatoprost, specifically for growing lashes. After a clinical trial, Latisse was approved by the FDA in December of 2008.

Scar Esthetique and Scar FX
Manhattan Beach Dermatology has discovered two of the best topical scar treatments to use over the six months to one year healing time of the average scar. Scar Esthetique is a silicone based cream for use during the day, and Scar FX is a silicone sheet dressing to be used at night. In addition to silicone, Scar Esthetique contains 22 active ingredients, including 12 antioxidants. It also contains the onion skin extract of one of the best selling scar creams, Mederma. Clinical studies have shown that what really accelerates the healing process and minimize scarring is keeping a wound moist and covered, and silicone gel dressings seem to be the most effective. Several articles reviewing 30 years of research suggest that daily use of silicone can speed healing and lead to thinner, softer, less red and less painful scars. The silicone sheets are thought to work by keeping the scar covered, and that prevents water from evaporating from the skin surface, resulting in more skin moisture. However, sometimes these sheets are uncomfortable and hard to apply to contoured areas, and many people won't wear them on their faces. The silicone gel of Scar Esthetique is easier to use, and it dries clear on the skin so it doesn't rub off like ointments. It can even be worn under makeup. Scar Esthetique cream and Scar Fx silicone sheeting can be combined with other scar treatments such as lasers and cortisone injections for even faster results.