PCA Skin Representative

Thanks!!! by JF
I'll purchase the Pigment Gel today! I appreciate being able to Q&A with a PCA expert. Would the pigment gel be first applied, then a&c followed by the clearskin?

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Adding the pigment gel would be an excellent idea. You can continue with your current regimen and spot treat the dark spots with the pigment gel in the evening. The A&C synergy serum will actually help with speeding the pigment lifting process. I'm so glad you have had great results so far. Please let me know if you need anything else.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Hello,
Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the product you are asking about. When you are applying any regimen always layer from thinnest to thickest (serums then creams). This will allow for optimal penetration of each product. I hope this helps!

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Stimulation is normal when using Retin-A. This is a potent drug that is mildly compromising the barrier of your skin. Applying anything could cause the tingling or stinging sensation you describe.

by DR
Thanks a lot for your prompt response. I just wanted to check about using it with Retin-A, as there is a mild burning feeling which lasts for couple of minutes after application and then fades away! I am assuming this is normal?

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
You are using it correctly and yes, it is perfectly fine to apply along with Retin-A. This should help with the dryness that often accompanies Retin-A use. Let me know if you need anything else.

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Hello,

What you are using now is good but it may not be strong enough to completely clear the breakouts you are experiencing. I would recommend adding the A&C synergy serum after you tone. Retinol is an absolute must to help control the plugs that cause breakouts. Another product that you would find helpful is the acne gel. This is to spot treat current breakouts and speed clearing. Adding these to what you are currently doing should speed the process considerably.

Thanks!

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
It is difficult to say without seeing your skin. The ideal situation would be for you to see a PCA certified professional for a skin analysis and customized regimen. Please let me know if you are interested and I will be happy to give you the name of someone in your area.

For the time being, I would recommend the breakout control solution. You will also need something like the ExLinea peptide smoothing serum to prevent and correct any fine lines and wrinkles. This will be a good starting point for the items you describe.

Thank you and please let me know if you need anything further.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
The C-Strength has a shelf life of 1.5 years. The shelf life begins at the date stamped on the crimp on the top of the tube, not once it's open. Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Although the clearskin does have antibacterial benefits, it is indicated for evening moisture, not a potent antiacne product. You will need more to control the breakouts you are describing. I would recommend the breakout control solution. You will also need something like the ExLinea peptide smoothing serum to prevent and correct any fine lines and wrinkles. This will be a good starting point for the items you describe.

Thank you and please let me know if you need anything further.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Once the discolorations have cleared up you will need to use something to maintain those results and prevent new pigment from coming up. I recommend the pigment gel hq free with the rest of the pigment control solution. You do not need to use the original pigment gel during this maintenance period. Thank you for your question. Let me know if you need anything else.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Hello,

I'm glad you have enjoyed this excellent product! The clearskin contains retinyl palmitate (vitamin A) and vitamin E for their cell turnover and antioxidant capabilities. Both vitamins A and E are beneficial for a number of different skin conditions. The clearskin is specifically formulated for light nighttime hydration of breakout-prone skin. If you are looking for anti-wrinkle benefits associated with these two ingredients, I would recommend the retinol renewal with restorAtive complex.
Thank you for your inquiry. Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Hello,

Your concern is very common and typically is quickly reversed. I would recommend the breakout control solution in addition to the pigment gel. Using these products in conjunction will reduce breakouts and prevent and fade the discolorations. This should be all that you need to acheive results.

I hope this helps you.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Hi there,
I would customize this slightly to treat exactly what you describe. I recommend the facial wash oily/problem (pHaze 1), acne gel (pHaze 35), protecting hydrator SPF 25 (pHaze 7), anti-redness serum (pHaze 42), and clearskin (pHaze 18). This should address all of your concerns. Please let me know if you have any more questions.

Add Comment »

More Questions regarding Rosacea and Oily T zones by KL
Hi again! I have purchased the PCA line products suggested by you and have been happy with the results so far. It has only been a couple weeks so I am impressed I am seeing results. I have another question..Should I be using a toner as well? Also I do have some hyperpigmentation as a result of acne scars...can I add the pigment treatment to my regimen? If I were to add it...where does it go? Both morning and night...before or after the redness treatment/acne gel?

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
I would recommend cleansing the area with the pigment bar once daily (be sure to allow the lather to remain on the skin for 2-5 minutes). Next, apply pigment gel or pigment gel HQ free to the spot morning and evening. Last, apply the perfecting face & body hydrator SPF 30 twice daily. This sunscreen has added skin-brightening ingredients and is safe for use two times a day. This regimen should help lighten the area over time. Please let me know if you need any further assistance.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
I am so glad to hear you are benefiting from the products. The redness you describe indicates inflammation and healing of prior breakouts. This healing process can, unfortunately take months; however there are products that can speed this process along. I would recommend the rejuvenating serum. Apply this product in the morning for accelerated healing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. This will also help in preventing the severity of these spots from future breakouts.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
The peptide lip therapy is currently on back order and is expected to be back in stock by mid September with a better-than-ever formula! If you'd like to email me directly at dmarkland@pcaskin.com, I would be happy to replace the bottle you currently have with the improved formula, once it becomes available.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
The facial wash is an excellent addition to your regimen. The product is fine for more dry skin types and you could use it as often as once a day, but that may not be necessary. I would recommend starting at using it in the evening three to four times a week and increasing use if you feel more exfoliation is needed.

by AD
Danae-thank you so much! I do have one more question. I placed my most recent order today and ordered the pHaze 1 Facial Wash in addition to the Creamy Cleanser based on the recommendation of an aesthetician friend who thought having a more exfoliating-type product would be helpful to use sporadically. What are your thoughts? Should it be used sparingly-such as once a week, or is it gentle enough to use more regularly on someone with sensitive, dry skin such as myself? Thank you again! Angela

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Absolutely, the texture of sunscreens is very subjective so we have several to choose from. I personally use the perfecting face & body hydrator SPF 30. I like its light consistency and the fact that it comes in a larger size for use on the body as well. There are added ingredients that will also help with preventing sun-induced skin discolorations. I believe you have one of these in the kit you purchased. Give it a try and if you still don't like the texture, the protecting hydrator SPF 25 is another option. This product has a more matte finish and is good for all skin types.

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Thanks,
Danae

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Unfortunately, not all physicians feel the same ingredients are potentially harmful during pregnancy and lactation. PCA SKIN does not recommend the use of any skin care products during this time without first consulting the treating OBGYN regarding the ingredients in each product. The concern is a result of lack of information regarding this subject.

Certain ingredients like hydroquinone and retinol are typically contraindicated during pregnancy, however we do have quite a few pigment control options that do not contain these ingredients. The brightening therapy is a great product and I have not heard of any of its active ingredinets being a problem. The pigment gel HQ free is also an option, as it does not contain hydroquinone.

If you would like a list of ingredients in the products I've listed above please let me know and I can put together a listing for you to share with your OBGYN. Thank you for your inquiry and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Yes, the blemish control bar can be used daily and even twice a day. I will say that it is not great at removing make-up so you may need to cleanse with a gentle cleanser first in the evening to remove the make-up and then cleanse with the blemish control bar.

You would spot treat with the acne gel first and then apply the A&C synergy serum all over. The acne gel should be used as a spot treatment product most of the time; however I use it all over my face (in a thin layer) once a week as a treatment mask. Please do not use it any more often than once a week for this purpose but it is helpful at preventing breakouts.

I hope this helps you, let me know if you need anything else.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
The hydrating serum will help to normalize the amount of oil you produce, however if you are looking for a product that will address both the oil and the breakouts, I would suggest clearskin. The clearskin will help with oil production as well as increase cell turnover and reduce bacteria. This will make it so you do not need to purchase another product for the bumps you described.

Thanks for your inquiry, please let me know if you anything further.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Yes, the pigment gel can be used in conjunction with Retin-A micro. Both products are active so I cannot tell you for certain whether they will be irritating but it would be rare to encounter any problems. I would recommend trying the pigment gel every other day to see if any redness or irritation appear in the area and if so, discontinue use.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Oil is often very difficult to get under control, as you've experienced. The problem is that many times products designed to control oil, actually over-dry the skin and cause it to produce more oil. We definitely do have some options for you to try. I would recommend the following:
•facial wash oily/problem
•smoothing toner
•acne gel (apply a thin application to your T-Zone each evening to reduce oil production)
•hydrating serum (I know it might seem counterintuitive but by creating water moisture in the skin you will dramatically reduce the amount of oil that is produced)
•protecting hydrator SPF 25 (for matte finish UV protection during the day)

I have seen this group of products work wonders on oily skin types and wish you luck!

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
I am so happy to hear you have experienced such great results! I have passed this along to the entire staff and we all found it uplifting! Thanks so much for sharing!

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
The pHaze numbers used to indicate the order in which products should be applied, however over the years as we have discontinued products, etc. the numbers have lost their meaning. Our clients who have been using PCA for years are very familiar with the numbers and that is why they are still included in the product name. If you are new to PCA you can disregard the pHazes.

I would recommend the Retinol Renewal with RestorAtive Complex for increased firmness and elasticity. Retinol is the only topical ingredient that is proven to stimulate elastin production and also stimulates collagen formation, is an antioxidant and increases cell turnover. This product will answer all of your needs.

Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
I'm glad to hear the A&C Synergy Serum has worked so well for you. The only product we make that contains a steroid is the Apres Peel Soothing Balm with 0.5% hydrocortisone. The product is recommended for skin inflammation and irritation and should only be used for seven days at a time. The ReBalance (for oilier skin) or the Silkcoat Balm (for drier skin) contain strong anti-inflammatory agents that are not steroids and are safe for daily use.
Thanks for your inquiry, please let me know if you need anything else.

Add Comment »

Re: Rosacea by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Hello,
No, our gel and creamy cleansers do not contain parabens. I would recommend the Creamy Cleanser for your skin. It will reduce inflammation and increase hydration.

Thank you for your inquiry, please let me know if you need anything further.

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
What you are experiencing is very common. Pores do tend to appear to get larger with age because collagen decreases and this causes the pores to sag open. The occasional breakouts are also common and are probably caused by hormones and/or stress. All three conditions can be addressed by retinol which will stimulate collagen production and increase cell turnover to reduce breakouts. I recommend Retinol Renewal with RestorAtive Complex. Also Acne Gel is excellent, as it will not over-dry the skin when you apply it to the breakouts.

It is difficult to make concrete suggestions without examining your skin. If you are still having trouble I would be happy to refer you to a professional in your area that offers a consultation and can recommend further products for your specific needs.

I hope you find this helpful and I wish you luck!

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
The Acne Control Solution utilizes benzoyl peroxide (BPO) in the BPO 5% Cleanser and the Acne Cream. BPO is a strong, incredibly effective antibacterial agent that can be too active for certain skin types. The Breakout Control Solution utilizes alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid and azelaic acid, all of which are very effective antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents. One is not necessarily more effective than the other, it just depends on the underlying skin type, and the severity and inflammation associated with the acne breakouts.

The main reason there are two options is that every case of acne is different and the same ingredients do not work on everyone. It sounds like you are having success with the Acne Control Solution so I recommend continuing with that regimen.

I am glad to hear of your success so far, let me know if you have any further questions.

Add Comment »

Thanks! by JF
Thank you so much for your suggestions. I think I will give the ReBalance a try. I absolutely love the products and just want the dryness to disappear.

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
Absolutely, anti-acne ingredients can be drying and many times additional hydration is needed. There are a couple of options you can try. ReBalance is still a relatively thin moisturizer that does not feel heavy and will not increase oil production but will be more hydrating than the Clearskin in your kit. Hydrating serum is also an excellent option as it offers huge amounts of water moisture in the skin without the use of any oils. Both of these could be used all over your face or only on the dry patches. Keep in mind that these areas are compromised and any product may cause some slight tingling when you apply them. This is normal and will subside as the area heals.

Thanks for your question. I wish you luck in the future!

Danae

Add Comment »

by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
I'm so glad to hear of your success! Fortunately, many of the
ingredients used to correct discolorations are also antibacterial making
treatment somewhat more simple. The A&C synergy serum is an excellent
multifunctional product that will prevent reoccurring breakouts and
assist in reducing discoloration. You would also benefit from the
brightening therapy with TrueTone, as this will even the skin tone and
reduce any residual inflammation from the acne.

As you mentioned the skin is an accommodating organ and it may plateau
when the same ingredients are used for prolonged periods of time. This
plateau can be prevented by making small regimen changes or tweaks. It
is not necessary to completely switch products and I do not recommend
switching to benzoyl peroxide (BPO), as the strength of product would be
unnecessary. I would recommend the blemish control bar once daily. This
is more gentle than BPO but still very effective. I would do once month
on, one month off of this new cleanser and this will prevent a plateau.


I hope this information helps you, please let me know if you need
anything further.

Thanks,
Danae

Add Comment »

Pigment Gel HQ Free Dyschromia Controller - pHaze 13 by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
The HQ free version was designed specifically for individuals sensitive to hydroquinone (HQ). Hydroquinone is a chemical lightener that provides fast dramatic reduction of discolorations, however if someone is sensitive to the ingredient it will cause more problems than fix. In my opinion if someone can use HQ, I recommend they do so. The ingredients included in the HQ free formula are also proven to reduce dark spots and it will absolutely provide results but it may not be as fast acting.

Add Comment »

Choosing based on skin type by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
PCA SKIN is distributed exclusively by licensed professionals. We always recommend that patients visit a PCA provider in their area for a consultation, skin examination and product recommendations prior to purchase. Each skin type is very different and customizing is best for the most dramatic results! If you are interested in getting information on an office in your area that carries PCA SKIN please contact 877-PCA-SKIN for a referral.

Add Comment »

which one is better? by HH
i want to know the different between pigment gel and a&c synergy serum.....how can i comebine to use 2?

Wow! by swrite
I didnt realize that. Very interesting. Thank you.

PCA scents by PCA Skin Representative - PCA SkinŽ Representative
PCA does not utilize artificial fragrances or dyes in our products. These additives are often irritating and comedogenic to the skin. Each product smells like the combination of ingredients they include. Each is unique and some may smell better than others but we prefer this over fragrances that may cause additional skin problems for our users.