Skinwise Rx

Hair loss can be a deeply distressing experience. It's often more than just a cosmetic issue. It can significantly impact a person's emotional well-being and self-esteem. Especially for women and those who lose their hair prematurely.

Hair loss can result in low self-confidence, anxiety, depression, isolation, body image issues, and even grief.

Depending on the cause of hair loss, there are steps that can be taken to stop the loss and even to regrow new hair.

Tretinoin (a more powerful prescription version of retinol) and minoxidil can work synergistically to promote hair growth. While minoxidil is primarily known for dilating blood vessels in the scalp to increase hair follicle nourishment, tretinoin plays a complementary role in optimizing scalp health by exfoliating, increasing absorption, and creating cell turnover.

At SkinWise Rx, our proprietary treatment includes tretinoin. Many people who don't see results from Minoxidil often find that the inclusion of tretinoin rectifies that.

If you're concerned about hair loss or have found Minoxidil to be less than effective call or email SkinWise Rx for a free, private consultation and find out what we can do for you. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital and MIT have developed a microneedle patch designed to deliver specific immune-regulating molecules directly to the scalp to treat alopecia areata.

The patch was found to effectively target and restore immune balance in hair follicles, promote hair regrowth by increasing the number of regulatory T cells while avoiding the systemic side effects associated with traditional immunosuppressants.

The treatment shows promise for other autoimmune skin diseases as well. It is an innovative approach that represents a significant advancement in the management of alopecia areata and offers hope for individuals suffering from the condition.


Belair

Sun protection patches are a new innovation in the skincare market and SkinWise Rx loves the idea! These adhesive patches provide targeted sun protection, often for sensitive areas like the nose, lips, or under the eyes or treated areas and do not require frequent reapplication.

Sun protection patches offer a discreet approach to shielding sensitive areas from harmful UV rays. These ultra-thin, breathable patches are virtually invisible, making them ideal for those who want to avoid the greasy or shiny feel of traditional sunscreens. By blocking both UVA and UVB rays, they help prevent sunburn, premature aging, and long-term skin damage.

They can be applied directly to areas most susceptible to sun damage and offer a hands-free option for sun protection, especially for those who struggle to remember to apply traditional sunscreen. The patches are designed to withstand water and sweat, making them suitable for outdoor activities. When you're done, you can just peel off the patches and toss them in the bin while leaving nearly zero residue on the skin.

Additionally, these patches can be infused with other ingredients that are beneficial to the skin.

At SkinWise Rx, we think these would be a great product for post treatment care. Would you wear them? Would you like us to carry them? Let us know in the comments!


Belair

In a recent UNLV study of nearly 13,000 GLP-1 patients, researchers found that nearly 20% experienced bowel disfunction with the majority experiencing constipation.

Individuals who consumed higher amounts of ultra-processed foods were more than twice as likely to experience constipation compared to those with lower intake. Conversely, increased consumption of minimally processed foods was associated with a reduced risk of constipation. These findings remained consistent even after accounting for other dietary factors.

Minimally processed foods are those that have undergone minimal changes from their natural state, therefore retaining most of their original nutritional value.

Individuals taking GLP-1 medications who experience constipation may find relief by reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods and increasing intake of minimally processed options, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts.


Belair

Sunscreen is often hailed as the most effective anti-aging product available. While there's a plethora of creams, serums, and treatments promising to reverse the signs of aging, none can truly match the preventative and protective power of sunscreen.

Here's why:

Prevents premature aging: Sun exposure is the primary culprit behind wrinkles, age spots, and loss of skin elasticity. Sunscreen acts as a shield, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.

Protects against skin cancer: Beyond aesthetics, sunscreen is crucial for preventing skin cancer. Melanoma is a formidable enemy to your skin's well-being.

Maintains skin health: Regular sunscreen use helps preserve your skin's natural hydration, texture, and tone.

By incorporating sunscreen into your daily skincare routine, you're not just preventing future damage but also preserving your skin's youthful appearance.

SkinWise Rx has several varieties of Korean sunscreen brands that have stronger protection as well as broader options for skin type. Check out our website at SkinWiseRx.com or come by the clinic to see the selection!


Belair

Hyperhidrosis. More than 15 million Americans deal with it. It can be quite distressing and, if you suffer from it, you know it can have a significant impact on your quality of life.

Hyperhidrosis can lead to social anxiety, embarrassment, body odor, skin irritation and even infections. Often, the exact cause is unknown. Triggers can include stress, anxiety, hot environments, and even spicy foods.

SkinWise Rx is thrilled to offer a new treatment for underarm hyperhidrosis. Brella is a new, non-invasive patch that treats hyperhidrosis quickly and effectively in only 3 minutes.

It's important for all hyperhidrosis treatments to be carried out by an experienced medical professional. In some cases, hyperhidrosis can be associated with underlying medical conditions.

If you're ready to treat your hyperhidrosis call or email SkinWise Rx and schedule a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

A recent pilot study evaluated the efficacy and safety of magnesium microneedling (Mg MN) patches for treating inflammatory acne lesions and widened pores. The results were very encouraging for those suffering from inflammatory acne.

The patches quickly and significantly reduced the number of inflammatory acne lesions and acne scores within 7 days. The study also found that the patches were safe and well-tolerated by the study participants showing no serious adverse events.

Magnesium's anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and swelling associated with acne while helping fight acne-causing bacteria leading to clearer skin. Further, the microneedling process stimulates collagen production, aiding in skin repair and reducing the appearance of acne scars.

More research is needed but the initial finding suggests that magnesium microneedling patches may be a promising new way to treat inflammatory acne.


Belair

Comcast has given us a heads up that SkinWise Rx might experience some disruptions to our phone service tomorrow, Wednesday, July 24.

If you experience difficult contacting us by phone (503.964.5334) please email us ([email protected]) if you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment.

We appreciate your patience if you experience any difficulties and expect everything to be back to normal when we open on Thursday.


Belair

During the SkinWise Rx trip to Seoul we noticed that exosomes were in nearly every product at the Seoul Int'l Cosmetics & Beauty Industry Expo. The use of exosomes is now being loudly discussed in America as a trending skincare ingredient.

But, what do exomes mean for your skin?

Exosomes are tiny, membrane-bound particles released by cells that carry important information between them. They hold great promise for skincare due to their ability promote wound healing, improve skin texture and tone, and combat the process of ageing skin.

Research into exosomes is still ongoing, but their potential as a powerful skincare ingredient is evident. They represent a promising avenue for developing new and effective treatments for various skin concerns.


Belair

Hypochlorous acid has been shown to be an effective, gentle skincare ingredient that contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties are helpful for reducing post-workout redness and irritation. It's safe, gentle, suitable for most skin types and convenient to use in a spray format - which makes it an attractive option for post-workout cleansing.

Though an effective post workout treatment, it is not a substitute for your regular cleanser which you should continue to use to thoroughly remove dirt and oil.


Belair

SkinWise Rx has discussed on several occasions that Korean sunscreens are superior to those made in the US. But why is that and what would need to change to improve the quality and efficacy of US sunscreens?

For starters, sunscreen in the US is classified as a drug instead of a cosmetic. Therefore, the overseers of sunscreen regulations falls the the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Drugs and Therapeutics. Their approval process can be lengthy and expensive, potentially discouraging companies from developing and introducing new sunscreen ingredients to the US market.

However, if sunscreen were to be classified as a cosmetic, oversight would shift to the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. This division would likely be able to streamline the approval process for new ingredients leading to a wider variety of sunscreens with broader filters. Ultimately giving consumers a greater range of choices and creating more competition which would lead to more innovation.

Overall, reclassifying sunscreens as cosmetics could lead to a more dynamic sunscreen market in the US. However, maintaining safety standards and ensuring informed consumer choices would be crucial aspects of such a change.

SkinWise Rx has several varieties of Korean sunscreen brands that have stronger protection as well as broader options for skin type. Check out our website at SkinWiseRx.com to see the selection!


Belair

A recent study suggests there is a connection between GLP-1 drugs and an increased risk of gallstones.

The study suggests rapid weight loss via GLP-1s might be a factor in developing gallstones. Rapid weight loss can lead to the release of cholesterol into the body, which can then accumulate in bile ducts and form gallstones.

This study found an elevated risk for gallstones in participants taking GLP-1s compared to the control group, but only when they accounted for BMI in their analysis. This suggests that being overweight or obese itself might also be a contributing factor. Other studies have also suggested a link between other forms of rapid weight loss and gallstones, particularly after bariatric surgery.

If you're interested in taking a GLP-1 weight loss drug under the care of a medical expert, call or email SkinWise Rx for a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Fireworks are dazzling, but sunburn isn't! While you're gearing up for a fun-filled 4th of July don't forget to pack sunscreen with your festive spirit! Protect your skin, drink plenty of water, and have a safe Independence Day!


Belair

Did you know there's a link between pollution and eczema flare-ups? 🤧 We've seen a sharp increase in eczema diagnosis in industrialized nations since 1970. Chemicals like isocyanate and xylene released into the environment can trigger eczema symptoms. Good thing we have the Chevron Deference to prote... oh, right.

Here's what we can do -

Track Pollutants: Better detectors could help us predict eczema outbreaks and identify the best air filtration systems to remove harmful chemicals.

Reduce Exposure: Avoid products that limit healthy skin bacteria, like certain cleansers and detergents. For young children, limit their exposure to cigarette smoke, synthetic fabrics, and certain paints.

Restore Skin Balance: Research suggests probiotics like Roseomonas mucosa may help reduce eczema symptoms.

By understanding the environmental causes of eczema, we can protect children and potentially even prevent these conditions in the future.

If you suffer from eczema and are seeking solutions, call or email SkinWise Rx for a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Dry skin got you feeling rough, itchy, and sensitive? Want deep hydration & a lasting glow?

IUNIK's Beta Glucan Power Moisture Serum is packed with 100% Beta-Glucan, a powerful ingredient that attracts & retains moisture for a plump, hydrated complexion all day. It also️ strengthens your skin barrier to prevent dryness & irritation and soothes sensitive skin with its gentle formula, providing long-lasting moisture and reducing flakiness

Plus, it's lightweight & fast-absorbing for everyday comfort as well as cruelty-free & vegan.

Call or email SkinWise Rx for a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Skin cancer. No one wants to hear those words but 1 in 5 Americans will hear it from their doctor before they are 70. Despite the fact that risk reduction is often quite simple, skin cancer remains the most common cancer in the US.

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, prematurely ending the lives of nearly 10k in the US each year.

There is good news, though. First, lowering your risk for getting skin cancer is both easy and effective. Avoiding the sun, wearing protective clothing, skipping the tanning bed, a diet rich in fruits and veggies, and daily sunscreen use drastically increase your odds of avoiding a skin cancer diagnosis.

And, there are also easy ways to decrease mortality in those who are diagnosed. Early detection is crucial. Self-skin exams and regular visits to a skincare professional are the key to catching skin cancer early.

Lasers treatments can be used to remove precancerous lesions and prevent them from progressing to cancer. SkinWise Rx can help you develop an effective preventative skincare routine and treat sun damaged skin.

Call or email SkinWise Rx for a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Ever wonder why there are so many myths about skincare? Social media has greatly increased our access to information. But, as the saying goes, every Yang has it's Yin. And the Yin of it is misinformation is just as easily accessible.

And misinformation tends to spread easily. The internet and social media are full of beauty advice, and not all of it is accurate. Misinformation spreads quickly through online communities, especially with influencers who are more concerned with clicks than accuracy.

There also exists a lack of scientific understanding. Skincare routines are often based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific research leading to the perpetuation of myths.

Further, the beauty industry is driven by sales and some companies make exaggerated claims about their products. This can contribute to confusion and unrealistic expectations about what skincare can achieve.

Be wary of miracle cures and one-size-fits-all solutions. We often seek out quick and easy solutions to skincare concerns. Simple myths like "drink eight glasses of water for clear skin" or "use toothpaste to dry out pimples" can be appealing, but the fact is, they lack scientific backing. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.


Belair

Just like onions, cake and ogres, your skincare routine should have layers. Korean skincare routines often involve "layering" - applying products in a specific order, with thinner, more liquid products going first and thicker creams applied last.

This layering method allows each product to pe*****te the skin more effectively without creating a barrier that may hinder absorption of subsequent products.

Each layer applied can target a specific skin concern. For example, a toner might prep the skin for better absorption, while a serum delivers concentrated ingredients, and a moisturizer hydrates and protects.

Layering allows thinner products to pe*****te deeper layers of the skin before applying thicker creams, which could potentially hinder the the absorption of other products. Layering maximizes the benefits of each product.

Layering also allows you to essentially customize your skincare routine. You can tailor your routine to your skin type and needs. If you have dry skin you might use more hydrating layers, while someone with oily skin might focus on lightweight products.

If you have questions about incorporating layering into your skincare routine, call or email SkinWise Rx for a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Korean sheet masks are known world-wide for their hydrating, nourishing, and brightening properties.

Sheet masks are saturated in essence or serum, providing a concentrated dose of moisture to the skin. This can be beneficial for all skin types - especially if you experience dry or dehydrated skin.

There's a wide variety of sheet masks available, each formulated with different ingredients to address specific concerns. Brightening masks with vit C, soothing masks with aloe vera or centella asiatica extract, anti-aging masks with collagen or peptides. There's many to choose from depending on the issues you want to address.

Choosing which mask to use is the hard part. Once you make a decision the masks are convenient to use, mess-free, and quite the relaxing experience.

If you have questions about which sheet mask is right for you, call or email SkinWise Rx for a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Fermentation is a game-changer in Korean beauty!

Fermentation breaks down larger molecules in ingredients into smaller ones, allowing them to pe*****te the skin more deeply and deliver their benefits more effectively. This process increases the concentration of the beneficial nutrients like vitamins, antioxidants, and probiotics in many of our skincare products.

Discover how SkinWise Rx's Korean beauty products can give you more radiant, youthful skin! We have a full line of great Korean beauty brands available in clinic for you to choose from! 503.964.5334/[email protected]



Belair

Sunscreens are not all the same, and the fact is that Korean sunscreens are simply superior to their US counterparts.

The biggest reason is not necessarily a bad one, but one that has made it difficult to introduce new and innovative sunscreens to the US market. The FDA.

Sunscreens in the US are classified as OTC drugs, and that means they are regulated and there tends to be a great deal of red tape to cut through for US manufactures. The approval process for new products can be lengthy and quite expensive.

The good news is that competition will force the US brands to adapt. Once US brands start realizing that they are losing money to the Korean sunscreen brands they will be much more willing to shell out the money to improve their products.

SkinWise Rx has several great Korean sunscreen brands available in clinic for you to choose from as well as other K-beauty products that contain sunscreen.
503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

At SkinWise Rx we've been closely watching the fascinating field of exosomes and are currently in the process of deciding on in clinic use.

Dr. Doser feels that topical OTC Exosome skincare cannot sufficiently pe*****te the skin barrier. Pe*******on increases when used in combination with resurfacing treatments such as microneedling or laser therapy.

SkinWise Rx brought in a new device called Target Cool from Korea and we will begin trialing exosomes with microneeling and laser peel treatments. We will keep you alerted on the results!

Exosome sourcing is extremely important due to the necessity to have clean exosomes. While human derived exosomes may be more effective, plant-based exosomes are the safest because they can be created in a controlled manner in a sterile environment, At SkinWise Rx we always choose safety over efficacy because we value your health.

If you have questions or would like more information on Exosomes please call or email SkinWise Rx and schedule a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Hair loss is common for both men (80%) and women (40%), but some societies often view it negatively.

Societal views on baldness have changed throughout history, particularly in the West. While hair loss is common today, it can often be seen as undesirable.

Historically, baldness has been associated with purity, religion, and even divinity in many cultures. In the West, the 19th century saw a shift towards celebrating baldness for pseudoscientific reasons tied to race and intelligence. Eugenicists falsely believed baldness was a sign of superiority, particularly in white men.

These views are no longer accepted in science, but their influence persists. Hair loss research primarily focuses on Caucasians and males. This lack of diversity is problematic because hair loss affects all races proportionally. African Americans, for instance, are more prone to traction alopecia caused by tight hairstyles.


Belair

Dr. Doser, Kelly and Hayley have arrived in Seoul, South Korea for ! Which begs the question...

What products (< 3oz, of course) does a team of K-beauty experts take for a trip to the K-beauty capitol of the world? Of course, we're all about answers, so here you go:

Iunik Centella Bubble Cleansing Foam
Tir Tir Milk Skin Toner Mini
Skin 1004 Madagascar Centella Ampule
Purito Cica Clearing BB Cream
Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-Fit Sun Stick

That's it, just the essentials!

Beauty marks are back! Many celebs are once again embracing their facial moles and freckles.

It's likely Cindy Crawford is who many of us look to as the icon who made beauty marks a recognizable feature. She certainly had a great deal of influence on the perception of beauty marks in the 80s as her beauty mark became a signature part of her look, making the feature more recognizable in popular culture.

If you're younger, perhaps it was Fred Savage as #3 in the early 2000s. :) If you're older, it was probably Marilyn Monroe and her iconic beauty mark in the 60s.

The reality is that the popularity of beauty marks has come and gone about every 20 years or so, as trends tend to do. Before Marilyn there was Clara Bow in the 20s who loved hers so much she even added additional fake beauty marks in different places and shapes. And, Ava Gardner in the 40s whose beauty mark near her lip was so subtle people still argue whether or not it was a dimple.

History lesson aside, whether you call it a beauty mark, freckle, mole, or an olive of the body, not everyone is happy with these marks. Be it size, placement, or even skin cancer concerns, many people want them treated or removed.

SkinWise Rx offers several solution to treat unwanted beauty marks. If you're considering it call or email SkinWise Rx and schedule a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]



Belair

Lip Flip is a relatively new term. If you don't know what it is, it is a non-surgical procedure designed to make your lips appear fuller using neurotoxin instead of filler.

A small amount of neurotoxin is injected into specific points around your upper lip relaxing the muscles and causing the upper lip to slightly "flip" outward, creating the illusion of fuller lips.

Lip flips produce a subtle but noticeably plumper, more natural look in the upper lip and can last several months.

If you'd like to know more about lip flips vs dermal fillers call or email SkinWise Rx and schedule a free, private consultation. 503.964.5334/[email protected]


Belair

Social media significantly impacts teenagers' skincare habits, often for the worse. Influencers are often motivated by clicks and will promote unnecessary and potentially harmful anti-aging products to young audiences with little understanding of their skin's needs. This can lead to damaged skin barriers, irritation, and acne.

No group is more heavily influenced by social media than tweens and teens, spending hours daily consuming content and making them susceptible to beauty trends and influencer recommendations, regardless of the product's suitability for their age group.

Teenage skin has a unique microbiome, and harsh skincare products can disrupt it. This can lead to infections, especially if the natural bacterial flora hasn't yet matured.

Many anti-aging products will disrupt the delicate skin barrier of teens, causing dryness, irritation, and worsening acne. Additionally, many teens lack the knowledge to use these products correctly.


Belair