In With the New

 

How Peptides and Growth Factors Work to Give You New, Youthful Skin!

by Tish Jackson,

Lead Esthetician

 

 

Last month we said "out with the old", explaining the benefits of skin exfoliation. Now, we'll discuss how to regenerate new skin cells to promote dermal thickening and assist with collagen formation.

As we age, the speed of cellular proliferation slows and the skin thins. Simultaneously, collagen, which keeps the skin firm, breaks down. Thankfully, there has been ground-breaking research into skin care ingredients which address these issues.

Peptides
What exactly are peptides? They are small chains of amino acids (proteins are longer chains) which can penetrate the skin and begin a chain reaction by stimulating healing processes. Herein, fibroblasts are triggered to increase collagen production, while decreasing the breakdown of existing collagen. Collagen is the support system of the skin, keeping it taut and firm. Certain peptides limit muscle contraction, and are said to mimic the effects of Botox. 

The end result is firmer, radiant skin with less fine lines and wrinkles. Note that the results are cumulative, and may take time to become visible. Compliance and daily use are necessary to achieve the best possible results.

Growth Factors
Growth Factors are substances (proteins, peptides, or hormones) which are specific to epidermal cell proliferation or mitosis. When applied to the skin, tissue regeneration begins to speed up, allowing the skin to thicken. It also assists in wound healing, collagen and elastin formation, blood-vessel formation, and also resolves inflammation and acts as an antioxidant.

Growth factors help your skin produce a healthy, well-nourished foundation, creating volume to push up and smooth wrinkles from beneath the skin surface.

Peptides and growth factors go hand-in-hand with exfoliation products and procedures because they work in synchronicity with the natural renewal process of the skin. These ingredients are must-haves for your anti-aging regimen, as they are tried and true basics to successful rejuvenation. Start the year off by bringing in the NEW—skin cells!

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Introducing Archipelago Botanicals

 

Natural Soy Wax Candles Now Available!

by Jennie Wallace,

Spa Director

 

Archipelago Botanicals Home Collection Candles are created to enliven any home with exotic special fragrances that allow you to take a trip in your mind right from your home. Chattanooga’s January weather can be down right miserable, but imagine the African Savannah or the Tropical rain forests as the aromas drift about you and relax your soul at the end of a trying day.

 

In a world of rush and hurry, candles help you mediate and find your center. Choose from 10 fragrances in either hand poured 90 hr frosted glass or a 25 hr travel tin. All of the cotton-cored and wood wicked candles are blended with more than 70% natural soy wax to ensure a long and clean burn with every light.

 

Stop by Center MedSpa today to get an Archipelago candle in your favorite scent!