Barbara Pak Salon

I have an opening this Tuesday (March 9th) at 1:15 for a facial treatment, massage or reflexology. Text, call or message me!

Barbara Pak Salon updated their phone number.

There's a reason I only carry the Dermalogica vitamin C serum. The heat (Hello summertime in Florida!) can affect the stability of vitamins in skin care products. And since Dermalogica's Biolumin C is more stable than most brands, it is more effective. Buying a less expensive product is literally throwing money away.

What is a serum? And why would I want to use one?

A serum is a lightweight moisturizer. Its smaller molecules are able to pe*****te more deeply to deliver a higher concentration of active ingredients to the skin. So, that’s basically it. A serum is more effective in ingredient delivery. It’s like an extra boost of energy or relief to your skin. However, there are many types of serums that deliver different active ingredients to address particular skin issues. For instance, there are serums that address dryness, aging skin, acne, and sensitivity. We will go through the ingredients that are used for each issue:

Dry skin: generally hyaluronic acid is the go to for this skin. It is hydrating while still feeling lightweight. Glycolic and Vitamin E can also be included. These serums can be used day or night.

Acne-prone skin: vitamin C, l-mandelic acid, niacinamide and salicylic are the main active ingredients I look for in these types of serums and generally a serum will contain just one of these as not to overwhelm the skin. These ingredients help clear the pores, some are anti-inflammatory and can help with cell turnover.

Aging or dull skin: can benefit from anti-oxidants such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, peptides and retinols. These ingredients help minimize the appearance of sun damage, accelerate cell renewal and support skin resilience.

Sensitive or sensitized skin: Avena sativa, lavender, CBD and aloe are high on the list of excellent active ingredients to help relieve reactive and irritated skin. I generally like a light oil-based serum to protect sensitive skin.

When to use a serum? After cleansing and toning, apply your serum and then your moisturizer and/or sunscreen on top. Because the molecules are smaller in a serum than in a moisturizer, you want to apply the serum before your moisturizer.

Day or night? It depends on the ingredients in the serum. Generally, retinols are not used during the day due to sun exposure. I like to think of protection and hydration during the day and repair and renewal at night.

And of course, see a professional. Take advantage of my expertise and education. I will be able to direct you to the proper serum for your individual skin. No two people are exactly the same, so your product choices should be customized for you. It really does save you time and money to buy and use the correct professional products. Call, message, or text me if you’d like my guidance on choosing the right serum for you. I have a number of products in stock and am always available to help.

How to choose a sunscreen:

Once you know how sunscreens work and the different types available, it is easier to choose one that is right for you. So let’s start at the beginning. Sunscreens filter out the two waves of light emitted by the sun: Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. UVA are the longer rays that can cause premature aging and age spots whereas UVB rays cause sunburn. But both can lead to skin cancer. So, a sunscreen will help filter out these rays before they affect your skin. Remember that no sunscreen can completely protect you from the sun’s rays.

You’ve probably heard of SPF – that means Sun Protection Factor. SPF is a measure of how much UVB light can be filtered out by a sunscreen and for how long. For instance:

SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays
SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays
SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays
SPF100 blocks 99% of UVB rays

So, you can see that there is not a huge difference in filtering between SPF30 and SPF100. You may have noticed that UVA is not listed above. However, as long as you use a product labeled Full Spectrum, it will filter both types of waves. Generally, this is SPF30 and above, however, I use a product that is full spectrum but is SPF28.

Next, it is important to know that there are two types of sunscreens: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreen, sometimes called mineral sunscreen sits on top of the skin. They usually contain zinc oxide or a combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients reflect away UV rays. These types of sunscreens are good for sensitive and/or acne prone skin. They are a bit heavier feeling and can sometimes be difficult to blend. Often a tint is added to allow this sunscreen to perform as a makeup or primer. Physical sunscreens should be applied 15 minutes before sun exposure or as per label directions.

Chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays to keep them from penetrating the skin. These products will use more ingredients (organic compounds) in order to absorb the rays, turn them into heat and then release them from the body. They are generally lighter weight and thus are good for everyday use and for working out. Chemical sunscreens should be applied 20-30 minutes before sun exposure or as per label directions.

It is important to know that no sunscreen is truly waterproof or sweatproof. However, some are water resistant which means that they can stay on wet or sweaty skin for up to 20 (or with some products) 40 minutes. So, it’s best to reapply after swimming or heavy exercise.
Regarding application: use a lot more than you think you need! A full ounce is needed for your entire body. And reapply every two hours.

Remember that no sunscreen can completely protect you from the sun. Hats, clothing, and sunglasses should be worn when outside and shade is always preferable over full sun exposure.

And of course, see a professional. Take advantage of my expertise and education. I will be able to direct you to the proper sunscreen products for your individual skin. No two people are exactly the same, so your sunscreens and product choices should be customized for you. It really does save you time and money to buy and use the correct professional products. Call, message, or text me if you’d like my guidance on choosing the right sunscreen for you. I have a number of products in stock and am always available to help.

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel exfoliates dead skin cells on the uppermost layer of the epidermis revealing healthy, fresh skin. Monthly treatments help improve fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, acne and acne scarring, and even skin tone. Professionally applied, a mild chemical peel is safe for almost all skin types.

A peel uses a chemical agent to exfoliate rather than a mechanical one, such as microdermabrasion which I wrote about recently. A peel can be superficial, medium depth or deep. I will be discussing only the superficial, as medium and deep are done by a physician. There are three basic types of acids used as a peel: Alpha Hydroxy acids (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy acids (BHAs) and Trichloracetic acids (TCAs). I use all three depending on the skin type and condition we are treating.

Alpha Hydroxy acids are most often used for fine lines, uneven texture and to brighten the skin. You have probably heard of some of these acids: glycolic, lactic and mandelic.

Beta Hydroxy acids, such as salicylic, are used more for acne, blemishes and large pores.

Trichloroacetic acid is used for aging and discoloration caused by the sun, acne and hormones. Often other brighteners are added such as kojic and azaleic acids.

The peel treatment can be done during a facial or as a standalone treatment. First the skin is cleansed and prepared for the peel. The peel is then applied. Depending on the type of acid used, you may feel mild to fairly intense tingling. A fan can be used to cool the skin. One, two or even three layers may be applied. If required, the peel is then neutralized and then a sunscreen is applied. One thing to know is that not all peels actually cause visible peeling. Skin can peel microscopically and still be a very effective treatment. And clients are reminded never to pull at any peeling skin if it occurs, but allow it to slough off on its own.

Prior to a peel, certain products are recommended to ensure best treatment results. And afterward, Post-peel products are designed to be gentle and assist in hydrating the skin properly to improve results. Daily care, using professional products help improve and maintain the excellent results of your monthly treatments.

There are some caveats and warnings before you receive a chemical peel. Eczema, psoriasis, rashes, sunburn, anyone prone to fever blisters or who has taken Accutane within the last 6 months should not receive a chemical peel. And any waxing, retinols or topical acids should be discontinued for a week (or longer) prior to a peel. This is why I often like to see a client for a customized facial treatment prior to a peel, so that we can prep the client’s skin.

And of course, see a professional. It is important to know if you are a good candidate for a chemical peel. Not everyone is. Take advantage of my expertise and education. I will be able to direct you to the proper protocols and products for your individual skin. No two people are exactly the same, so your treatments and product choices should be customized for you. It really does save you time and money to buy and use the correct professional products and receive well designed treatments.

I have an opening for Friday, June 12th at 1:30. Your choice of one hour vacation: customized facial or relaxation massage. Call or message me if this appointment is calling your name! Sorry, this appointment has been taken, but call, text or message me if you'd like to come in another time!

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a mechanical skin resurfacing treatment that exfoliates the very top layer of skin using either crystals or a diamond tipped handpiece with suction. Micro means small or light, derma means skin, and brasion means the process of scraping or exfoliating. This is a gentle procedure and is usually part of a full facial treatment. By removing the top layer of dead skin cells, microdermabrasion reveals brighter, smoother and more even-toned skin. It can also help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring, melasma and sun damage.

Although one will see improvement after the first treatment, a series of 6 at intervals of 2-4 weeks will provide the best results. Using gentle products between treatments is vital for avoiding irritation.
A few caveats are to avoid sun exposure, alpha-hydroxy acids, retinols or waxing for up to a week prior to the microdermabrasion treatment.

And of course, see a professional. It is important to know if you are a good candidate for microdermabrasion. Not everyone is. Take advantage of my expertise and education. I will be able to direct you to the proper protocols and products for your individual skin. No two people are exactly the same, so your treatments and product choices should be customized for you. It really does save you time and money to buy and use the correct professional products and receive well designed treatments.

What’s the difference between sensitive and sensitized skin?
I’m asked this question very often. They both present similarly with tightness, redness, a translucent appearance, flaking, flushing or even a rash-like texture. And although they are generally treated in the same way, they have different causes.

Sensitive skin is a more delicate skin that one is born with. The epidermis (top layer of skin) is thin and possibly less pigment allows blood vessels to show through giving an appearance of redness. The protective layer (lipid barrier) is not as strong, so irritants can pass through, causing stinging, redness and irritation.

Sensitized skin is caused by environmental factors such as pollution, allergens, irritants in cosmetics and other products such as artificial fragrance and color, lifestyle triggers like stress, smoking, certain foods or alcohol consumption.

But the good news is that both can be successfully managed. And here are some tips for caring for sensitive and sensitized skin:

Know and avoid one's triggers. Here are a few: sun and wind exposure, artificial colors and fragrance in products (including laundry detergent and fabric softeners), being around smoke (even if you aren’t a smoker), pollution and both indoor and outdoor allergens. Certain foods can irritate skin too: sugar, iodides, and dairy are a few common triggers.

Use tepid water to wash your face and body. That’s water that is not too hot and not too cold. Avoid extremes.

Use products meant for your skin type. Strong anti-aging or acne products will have the opposite effect, leaving your skin dehydrated and irritated. Less is more when it comes to your skin.

Be gentle, no rough handling. Use a soft, clean wash cloth or just your hands for cleansing. Be mindful of caring for your skin and treat it as you would a precious baby.

And of course, see a professional. Take advantage of my expertise and education. I will be able to direct you to the proper products and protocols for your individual skin. No two people are exactly the same, so your treatments and product choices should be customized for you. It really does save you time and money to buy and use the correct professional products.

It's so great to be back! If you haven't already scheduled your appointment, call or text me. I do have a few openings for next week!

First day back...

Please call or text me for an appointment. I still have a few openings for next week! I am so thrilled to be back in the treatment room!

Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers of humans and fur babies!

I'm happy to say that I am re-opening on May 12th! (That week is already filled but I am taking appointments for the following week, starting on Tuesday May 19th.)

Please call or text me for an appointment.

Another great Dermalogica certification. I am inching closer toward reopening.

I still am not sure when I will be reopening. It will either be in phase 2 or phase 3. I will definitely keep you posted. I miss you and hope to be back in my treatment room soon. Please feel free to reach out to me.

Please wait for me. But if you can't, remember to fill in your brows first and then only tweeze the stragglers.

Please feel free to call or text me for your Mothers Day gift certificates!

I've been busy during my stay at home time. I am so pleased to announce that I am now a Face Reality Certified Acne Specialist. I am now able to treat both acne, from mild to severe and rosacea subtype 2 (acne rosacea) both in my treatment room and virtually.

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