Osmosis’ StemFactor uses stem cell technology in a different way because we are not using the actual stem cells in a bottle. Instead we use a combination of stem cells (IPS and Mesenchymal) and fibroblast cells that we feed and nourish to stimulate the production of growth factors. Human stem cells and fibroblasts make over 150 different growth factors that are naturally found in your skin. As we get older, the number of growth factors declines which affects new cell formation, skin nutrition and immune repair activity, all of which are critical to keeping our skin young. Osmosis is the only company offering the combination of cells mentioned, giving us the greatest diversity and potency in growth factors through Osmosis’ StemFactor that has liposomal delivery of these rejuvenating growth factors.

Other companies offer individual growth factors made by bacteria that distort healthy skin by over-emphasizing a particular response in the skin. This can lead to increases in cancer cell formation, but more often it simply reduces the skin’s ability to perform effective repair. Many companies are touting plant stem cells as a way to rejuvenate the skin. This does not make physiologic sense. The skin is not going to convert from a foreign plant cell into human tissue of any kind. Animal stem cells and/or DNA from animal sources also suffer the same fate of being considered an intruder more than a savior. The other issue with both animal and plant stem cells is the viability of the material. All cells are very fragile and are unable to withstand the stresses of harvesting, shipping and manufacturing.

StemFactor sets itself apart because it communicates to our cells in the language they understand. The process of gathering the growth factors has been perfected to maximize the stability and penetration while giving the skin the tools it needs in a balanced fashion. You will find its benefits include helping acne, rosacea, aging and hyperpigmentation because it strengthens our skin’s immune system… which improves all skin conditions!

By Dr. Ben Johnson

Rolling with a 0.25mm and 0.5mm roller: 

First and foremost rolling with a dermal roller is going to increase the penetration of your products by up to 100%.   This increased penetration of your product ingredients and availability of cell nutrients to both layers of the skin is where the magic starts to happen.   You see the outer layer of skin called the epidermis acts as a barrier to protect you preventing harmful substances from getting in to your skin.  The problem with this is that it also prevents essential cell nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants and other topical nutrients from penetrating the skin.  Your cells rely on the nutrients in your products to function optimally and create great looking, healthy, well functioning skin.   For example your fibroblast cells, the cells that produce collagen and elastin rely on nutrients and specific vitamins to make collagen and elastin.  These fibroblasts cells are in the second layer of skin called the dermis so for your products to work they must reach the dermis.

The use of a dermal roller creates micro-channels delivering your product ingredients to the epidermis (top layer)and down to the dermis (second layer) thereby stimulating collagen and elastin reducing the appearance and slowing the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.  These cell nutrients are also imperative to control acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation and other skin concerns.

Secondly the rolling causes “positive” micro-injury to the keratinocyte cell which promotes the epidermal growth factor and increased cell turnover.   The release of the epidermal growth factor has many benefits to the skin.

What are growth factors?

Growth Factors are naturally occurring substance capable of stimulating cell growth and cell proliferation. They are the key factors in skin rejuvenation playing a role in stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastin and promoting growth of keratinocytes, fibroblasts and other cells.  Medical studies indicate that Growth Factors are a powerful force in enhancing dynamic and rapid cell activity.

 Key benefits of epidermal growth factor:

• Send signals to help aged and damaged cells to transform back to younger, more   vibrant young skin cells .
• Increase the production of  collagen and elastin.
• Increase Epidermal thickness and strengthen skin elasticity and its structures
• Repair and reduce fine lines, wrinkles and sagging.

Using your dermal roller with Stem Factor by Osmosis provides an incredible skin health restoration plan.   Stem factor contains many different growth factors to support, repair, and improve the look and health of your skin.

The Secrets of Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic acupuncture combines the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine with specialized facial acupuncture to help you look and feel healthy and beautiful. It is the truest form of anti-aging medicine because it works internally to optimize your health while simultaneously enhancing the appearance of your skin. A practitioner specializing in cosmetic acupuncture uses the “meridians” that either end or begin in the face to stimulate and balance your energy, while also treating the underlying factors that contribute to the aging process.  The results leave your face glowing, with tighter skin and a reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Cosmetic acupuncture is also used to reduce or eliminate puffy eyes, dark circles, dehydrated skin, acne, and rosacea. As an added benefit, cosmetic acupuncture can also increase your own natural energy, or “Chi” force, providing you with a complete sense of relaxation and rejuvenation. You can also expect such positive side effects as reduced stress, improved sleep and digestion, and a reduction in menopause symptoms.

Going ‘Under the Needle’

The treatment is customized to each client based on an initial health assessment to determine your internal health. Your practitioner then creates a treatment plan using acupuncture and, if needed, Chinese herbal medicine. You will also be given nutritional recommendations. It is important to remember that your face is a measure of your health; if you are healthy and balanced, this will be reflected in your skin.

During treatment, the insertion of tiny, painless needles stimulates the flow of blood, lymph, and oxygen, which nourishes the skin from the inside out. At the same time, a process called “positive micro-trauma” stimulates the production of collagen, creating even skin tone, a smooth complexion, and a natural, healthy glow.

Cosmetic acupuncture is both preventative and corrective, so you can begin at any age. Beginning these treatments in your late twenties or early thirties can literally slow down the aging process by boosting your collagen and improving the health of your skin and body.  If you are in your forties, fifties, or sixties, these treatments will turn back the hands of time by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in tighter and brighter skin. Be prepared to glow!

The Results are In…

While you can expect a brighter complexion after just one cosmetic acupuncture treatment, ten to twelve treatments are recommended for optimal results. The treatments should be performed twice a week, or no more than one week apart for the first series of treatments.  To maintain the results, it is recommended that you have a treatment every six weeks to keep you looking fresh. Your cosmetic acupuncturist will also educate you on proper skin care using natural but active cosmeceuticals. It is equally important that you feed your skin the same vitamins, minerals, and supplements that you give your internal body. After all, the skin is the largest organ – and the only visible organ – so it needs proper care!

Unlike a treatment such as botox injections, cosmetic acupuncture addresses the entire face. The aim of cosmetic acupuncture is not to eliminate lines and wrinkles immediately, but rather to increase the health of the skin, while tightening and brightening the complexion. Cosmetic acupuncture is a great option for those who are hesitant to undergo botox injections, but also a great option for those who have targeted botox treatments and want to boost the vitality of the rest of the face. Clients have reported a need for less botox injections due to the overall tightening of the skin.

Cosmetic acupuncture continues to gain popularity, and there is evidence that it works. A study published in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture showed that of 300 people who received facial acupuncture, 90 percent saw marked results after their first course of treatment.

One of the most attractive features of cosmetic acupuncture is that there is no downtime; plus, it is covered by most extended health plans. If you are looking to naturally boost the look and health of both your skin and body, than cosmetic acupuncture may be an excellent option for you. But don’t let just anyone touch your face! Do your research as not all practitioners are alike.

With skin needling, collagen and elastin deposition are increased and the result is thicker, firmer, healthier skin. The healing period is short compared to other procedures only 24-28 hours because needling leaves the epidermis(your outermost layer of skin) intact. This procedure is less expensive, less risky, and just as effective if not more than laser treatments and other ablative skin treatments.  Your practitioner will use a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort.

Some of the key benefits include:

• Stimulate the production of collagen tightening the skin
• Eliminate or reduce crows feet and lip lines
• Eliminate or reduce forehead lines and frown lines
• Assist in the absorption of cosmetic products
• Reduce the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation and sun damage
• Treat acne scars and chicken pock scars
• Reduce the appearance of scarring and stretch marks
• Reduce the appearance of enlarged pores
• Helps with Rosacea
• Helps with hair restoration

What makes skin needling such an effective treatment option is a result of what is happening to the skin after it is needled over the next three plus months. Your skin will appear to be visibly healed after 24-48 hours but the healing process is continuously happening beneath the surface for several months.  This natural healing process is what makes the treatment so effective.

The fibroblast cells which are the cells that make collagen and elastin will migrate to the injured site and produce and deposit new extracellular matrix.  The new matrix cross-links and organizes itself and over time, new collagen will:

• fill in any depressed scars and fine lines and wrinkles that are present
• break down and reorganize any scar tissue

Home Care Skin Needling combine with Stem Factor:

Home care skin needling is a great addition to your daily skin care routine.  Combining home care skin needling with a revolutionary product from Osmosis called Stem Factor the results are phenomenal.  Stem Factor contains growth factors that have been derived from human stem cells making them much more effective than plant based stem cells.   When we are young we have ample amounts of growth factors in our skin and that is what keeps our skin looking smooth, healthy and youthful but with age these growth factors begin to decline and this is seen as fine lines, wrinkles, poor skin function and skin conditions.  Luckily with the combination of Stem Factor and home care skin needling we can re-build and replenish these vital growth factors.   Great results are seen when performing skin needling in combination with Stem Factor 2-5 times a week.  This is a cost effective way to keep your skin young and healthy.  It is also a great way to support your medical skin needling sessions to ensure you are achieving the best results possible.

Stem Factor contains essential growth factors and when combined with skin needling will:

1.  Enhances repair of damaged cells
2. Encourages formation of new cells to make collagen and elastin and improves strength and elasticity of the collagen structure.
3. Increases the number of macrophage cells which remove scar tissue, strengthen capillary walls.
4. Increases new blood vessel formation which is important to ensure skin is being fed vital nutrients to function and look its best.
5. Improves skins ability to fight infections

To book a complimentary skin health consultation visit www.sknclinic.ca or call 604-568-6333

Your twenties and early thirties are primarily a time of preventive skincare and what you do during these years can positively or negatively affect the health of your skin and the rate at which it ages. In our forties, skincare is preventive and corrective; this is a time when we notice more dehydration and accentuated appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sun spots. There are effective anti-aging treatments and products that can be used to address existing signs of aging as well as prevent further deterioration.

In our fifties, fine lines and wrinkles can become more prominent and can develop into folds. This is a time when estrogen is decreasing, resulting in reduced elasticity and plumpness of the skin. Your skin tone can become more uneven and jowls can begin to develop.

Luckily, age is not the only determining factor. Lifestyle, nutrition, stress, skincare, sun protection and genetics are key factors that play a role in the speed at which our skin will age. Look for a good quality physical sunscreen that uses zinc oxide and or titanium dioxide and avoid the chemical sunscreens. The sooner we start taking care of our skin the better the results, the healthier and more long-living our skin will be, and the less money will be needed for more invasive procedures down the road. Below are the top five ways to keep your skin looking tight, bright and healthy.

1. Skin Tyte
Skin Tyte is an advanced light energy system that delivers infrared heat to the deeper layer of the skin where the collagen resides. Once the heat is delivered, it contracts existing collagen for a tightening effect, while also stimulating the formation of fibroblasts that will create more collagen. The Skin Tyte treatment is safe for all skin types.
Most individuals require a series of two to six sessions depending on age and collagen loss. The best part is that there is no downtime and you can resume normal activities immediately after treatment. Visible results can be immediate, but your skin will achieve the desired optimal benefits gradually over two to three months, when new collagen has formed. We highly recommend beginning these treatments in your thirties when collagen is gradually declining, because you will obtain maximum results and stop aging in its tracks. Great results are still obtained in your forties and fifties.

2. Vitamin A Infusion Peel
The Vitamin A Infusion Peel is a one-of-a-kind peel that repairs and remodels your skin. It works at a deeper layer where the collagen and elastin reside, making it a powerful anti-aging treatment, but it is also great for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. It boosts the cell turnover rate resulting in a healthier, more youthful complexion. It is extremely safe and tolerated by all skin types. We see mild to moderate exfoliation two to three days after the peel, which usually lasts for another two to three days. The peel is gentle but the results are significant!
Here’s what you can expect from a Vitamin A Infusion Peel:
• Increase fibroblast activity (fibroblast cells are what create collagen and elastin)
• Increase capillary flow to help increase food supply to the dermis and thicken the dermis
• Calm acne and rosacea symptoms
• Lift hyperpigmentation
• Reduce fine lines and improve skin tone and elasticity
• Normalize oil production
3. Chemical and Enzyme Peels
A chemical peel is a technique that involves the application of a variety of chemical solutions to remove the damaged outer layers of dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. It is extremely beneficial for many skin conditions and the aging face. By removing the build-up of dead skin cells and stimulating the regenerative process, you will notice marked improvements in the formation of wrinkles and fine lines, texture and tone of the skin and hydration. You’ll also see reduced pore size, clearing of blemishes, more balanced oil production and an overall healthier skin appearance.
Some exciting advancements in chemical peels now include the blending of active natural ingredients with a variety of enzymes and acids which allows peels to be customized to specific skin needs and concerns. These treatments can really transform the look and health of the skin. They range from very mild peeling to deeper peeling depending on your preference and skin’s needs. Lactic acid is a beautiful peel that will polish and brighten up the skin by removing the dead layer on top. An added benefit is that there is no downtime or peeling.

4. Skin Needling and Needle Dermabrasion
Skin needling (roller) and needle dermabrasion (tattoo gun) are non-invasive, non- injectable skin rejuvenation treatments that target a diverse range of skin concerns. This procedure uses a roller with microscopic needles or an inkless tattoo gun to target specific lines, wrinkles or scars, cellulite, and stretch marks. It is derived from ancient acupuncture techniques and has minimal risk and long-term results. As the needles are rolled over the skin, tiny punctures are created within the epidermis and dermis that encourage the skin’s own natural healing response. There is minimal downtime and discomfort; the treatment is carried out using topical numbing cream.
Home treatment rollers are also available for use on a weekly basis. These have much shorter needles which only microscopically break the surface of the skin. When used with your regular skin care routine, this will assist with absorption of your serums. The homecare roller will also help break up the dead layer of your skin; the exfoliating effect helps prevent congestion from dead skin build-up and promotes vibrant skin.
Clinical skin needling and needle dermabrasion are used to:
• Stimulate the production of collagen
• Reduce the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation and sun damage
• Treat acne scars and chicken pock scars
• Reduce the appearance of scarring, stretch marks
• Reduce the appearance of enlarged pores
4. Cosmetic Acupuncture
Cosmetic acupuncture is the ultimate anti-aging treatment because it balances our internal systems while simultaneously boosting the health and appearance of the skin. It is a non-surgical procedure that will help rejuvenate and revitalize your whole body. It will improve blood and energy circulation, nourish your skin and increase collagen production to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and dull skin.

5. Medi-Facials
A medi-facial is a results-driven treatment that uses concentrated clinical grade, natural ingredients that replenish and repair the skin. These ingredients include enzymes, acids, and vitamins, plus potent antioxidants. Medi-facials are great for all skin types and skin conditions because they are custom blended at the time of treatment. The infusion of nutrients, acids, and enzymes results in a deep cleaning and nutrient-rich feeding of the skin, and finally a smooth polishing, leaving skin looking refreshed, radiant and healthy.

Book a complimentary consultation today to learn more about these treatments and get started on a skin health program. Healthy skin is great looking, long-living skin. www.sknclinic.ca

The shorter UVB rays do the majority of damage in the top layer of our skin called the epidermis and the longer UVA rays do the majority of damage in the second layer of our skin the dermis.  The dermis is where all our collagen and structural elements reside.   When energy of these small particles of light strike our skin (where the light wave stops), the energy released alters the chemistry of that component of the skin and damages it.  This is the initial damage.  These chemical changes also produce free radicals and these radicals continue on to cause additional damage (secondary damage) to other skin components.  When you are in the sun unprotected you are going to experience  double levels of damage; the initial energy damage and the secondary free radical damage.

In time this repetitive photo-damage and free radical damage will break down collagen it will become dysfunctional.  Your pigment cells called melanocytes become dysfunctional and produce volumes of pigment that result in age spots and other forms of pigment.  The fibroblast cells which create our collage also become dysfunctional and do not produce new collagen.  Our macrophage cells which are responsible for  the immune function of our skin will fail and our skin protection will be compromised

It is estimated that 90% of sun damage is the result of unplanned or casual sun exposures when people may not have active photo-protection.  This can include riding in a car,  or just going for a short walk with their dog without wearing proper sunscreen.

Chemical sunscreens protect the skin by absorbing the light particles.   When this energy is absorbed, the molecules of the sunscreen are destroyed, rather than a skin component but this still results in chemical reactions and generates free radicals.  The same type of secondary free radical damage that unprotected sun exposure produces.  Subsequently chemical sunscreens are not the most complete or effective form of sun protection. They prevent a larger degree of the initial sun damage but allow secondary free radical damage, which adds to the speed of the skin ageing process.

Physical sunscreens on the other hand such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide work by reflecting the photons of light up and out of the skin so there is no absorption of energy.  There is no chemical reaction and no free radicals are produced.  Unlike chemical screens, the physical screen type of protection produces no free radicals and no secondary skin damage.

A physical sunscreen is a critical part of anti-aging and skin health program.   Look for products that contain micronized zinc for full spectrum protection.   The best sunscreen we have found to date is Shelter by Osmosis Pur Medical it contains micronized zinc oxide plus a blend of skin nourishing moisturizers.  There are absolutely no chemicals present in this sunscreen.   Titanum dioxide is found in mineral makeup and our mineral makeup of choice is Youngblood because it is milled 16 times to allow for sheer coverage of camoflouge coverage when needed.   You can learn more about these two proudcts and purchase them at www.sknshop.com

The pink, yellow and neutral hue options are customizable to match any skin undertone. All powder formulations contain titanium dioxide for long lasting UVA/UVB protection (SPF 15+). All Youngblood products are talc, paraben, artificial fragrance, dye and cruelty free. The special oil free formula makes it non–comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and an excellent option for oily, acneic, congested, and sensitive skin types. The powder is anti-inflammatory so it does have a healing and protective effect on the skin. The natural vegan formula is ideal for coverage after an IPL, acid or enzyme treatment because it won’t irritate the skin or affect the results of your professional treatment.

The combination of natural and mineral ingredients gives it amazing long wearing, waterproof, and adhering abilities. An added bonus is the clean, modern packaging and good price point. In order to get the most lightweight, silky coverage simply tap a small amount into the lid and select the appropriate brush size. Dip the tip of the brush into the powder, tap off the excess, and gently buff the powder into the skin using circular movements. Blend evenly over the face and jaw line to ensure gradual coverage to the neck. A small kabuki or powder brush will provide moderate to full coverage. A large kabuki or ultimate foundation brush that is more dense will give you full coverage. The powder foundation is very versatile and can easily be used to spot treat and conceal with a concealer brush, clean sponge or fingertip.

Be sure to cleanse your make up brushes every 2 weeks with a mild shampoo or professional brush cleaner to prevent powder, skin and bacteria buildup. Once you have an even, flawless palette to work with, you can add a splash of colour with blush or a light sun-kissed shimmer with bronzer.

TIPS:

• Apply a light weight moisturizer to clean, dry skin prior to application
• For the most even coverage make sure all serums, moisturizers and sun protection lotions have absorbed into the skin; blot with a tissue if needed
• Mix a small amount of mineral foundation into your moisturizer to create a custom tinted lotion
• For Rosacea, acne lesions, pigmentation and vascular issues the powder can be layered for added coverage

This has everything to do with your skin’s health and it is substantially overlooked by the skincare community. All the skin’s food, immune support, antioxidant and remodeling efforts all come from the blood supply. Every time you are stressed, you drink coffee or go outside in cold weather, your skin suffers a little because all of these things restrict bloodflow to the dermis. Vitamin K, horse chestnut and caffeine in skincare products are all designed to reduce bloodflow. There is no skin condition (Rosacea, Dark Circles, etc) that is better off with less bloodflow. That is why the utilization of Retinaldehyde, Niacinamide, Camphor, and other circulation enhancing ingredients makes such a big difference in the quality and health of the skin. Bags under the eyes are the result of vasoconstriction (reduced bloodflow and the correlation between loss of blood supply and the thinning of the dermis with age are more than a coincidence. Remember, it is a thinning dermis that is the primary cause of visible capillaries. The reason capillaries return after treatment is because the skin wants adequate blood supply in the area. The best way to reduce this is to build back the collagen/elastin (in the dermis) that covers these vessels.

STIMULATION

This is an important term because it needs to be differentiated from the typical remodeling strategies employed by most skincare companies. To highlight my point, we can discuss glycolic acid. This ingredient is in most products and is touted as a rejuvenating ingredient. The skin doesn’t have glycolic acid receptors so its method of action is simply to destroy whatever it can. The reason there is any effect is only because the skin, in response to the devastation, replaces itself with new layers. The epidermis swells a little from the inflammation (temporarily reducing the appearance of lines), the new skin is less pigmented (helping hyperpigmentation superficially) but the net effect the skin’s resources were used to repair the recent damage rather than repairing the substantial damage that was the initial treatment goal. So how do you stimulate the skin without damaging it? There a few ingredients for this task but one stands out as a clear leader, Retinaldehyde. The key remodeling components in the skin are the Fibroblasts. They make collagen, elastin and GAG’s, all of which are critical to a youthful, wrinkle-free appearance. Trauma does activate them but for little net gain. Activating their receptors is the true target and Retinaldehyde does a wonderful job at stimulating Fibroblasts without trauma. Retinaldehyde is what the skin uses to make collagen by converting it to Retinoic Acid.

PROTECTION

Most people think protection is a sunscreen. Sunscreens create damage in the skin and have been shown to increase skin cancer rates. Sunblocks like Titanium and Zinc, however, do protect by reflecting UV rays before they penetrate. But the best method of protection actually comes at the cellular level. Antioxidants used in the skin include catalase, L-glutathione, L-superoxide dismutase, Vitamin C and E amongst other ones. We believe that the utilization of ingredients the skin recognizes vastly improves the protection ability. Antioxidants are constantly being used, restored and used again because we are literally in a constant state of inflammation. High dose antioxidants have proven to not only significantly reduce damage in the skin, they actually allow the skin to rebuild itself by shrinking the repair requirements, thus resulting in a thicker, healthier dermis. To make the process most effective, high percentages of these healing actives should be used and adjunctive ingredients like liposomal technology, ensures that they reach their target.

UNDERSTANDING VITAMIN A

Let us be very clear, there is no more important skin ingredient than Vitamin A. The body stores Beta Carotene and Vitamin A (aka Retinol) in the skin for activation whenever it needs to repair itself (which ends up being 24hrs/day). It converts Retinol to Retinaldehyde, which has some activity, and then it converts Retinaldehyde to Retinoic Acid (aka Retin A). Looking at this process, you would naturally think that Retin A is the answer since that is the most active of the group and has the majority of receptors in the skin. The reason that is not true is because retinoic acid requires very careful regulation. The skin has no ability to store retinoic acid so whatever is produced (or applied topically) is utilized. Unfortunately, like many processes in the body, when receptors are over-stimulated, they do not work as well. In the case of Retin A, the irritation resulting from over-stimulation reduces its effectiveness and the downregulation of receptors makes it less active over time. Retinol, on the contrary, can be stored in the skin. It is 1/500th as active as Retin A and has little independent activity outside of what is converted to Retin A by the skin (which is a very small amount). To achieve an adequate response, approximately 5% is needed topically every day. Retinaldehyde is the immediate precursor to Retin A and has been proven to have similar activity in the skin to Retin A. The big advantage is that the skin can store whatever is not converted, thus reducing irritation and maximizing effectiveness with long-term use. Maximum stimulation of collagen/elastin with minimal irritation, that is why Retinaldehyde is the best form of Vitamin A available.

Another important misconception about Retinols is there ability to penetrate the skin. They are a large molecule and often have difficulty penetrating to the dermis where they are needed. To combat this problem, some companies use doses around 5% knowing that at least some of the Retinol will make it into the dermis. The downside of this is that a large part of the retinol sits superficially resulting in over-exfoliation which compromises the skin’s defenses. To effectively penetrate ingredients like Retinaldehyde, the use of liposomal technology can be extremely important. The net result is that there is less exfoliation (irritation) because the ingredient isn’t being activated in the superficial epidermis and there is more collagen/elastin produced because of the now higher levels in the dermis.

*Article credited to Dr. Ben Johnson*

Retinoic acid and all retinols are most effective in their “All Trans” configuration and that is how most Retin A is delivered…that is the good news. The bad news is that the all-trans retinols are significantly more expensive and are (by law) only identified on the label as “All Trans…” (not L-retinol AGP, not Retinyl Palitate, not Retinol/Vitamin A). The other bad news is that All Trans Retin A has a defect in its methodology. Once the skin converts Retinaldehyde to Retinoic Acid, it cannot be converted back into a form of Vitamin A that can be stored. That is why the skin converts only enough to perform the desired function and leaves the rest in storage forms of Retinaldehyde and/or Retinol. If you apply topical Retin A, the skin cannot shut it off which results in two things; irritation from over-stimulation and over-exfoliation, and, a probable tendency for the Retinoic Acid receptors to down-regulate. All Trans Retinoic Acid has by far the most receptors of any form of Vitamin A and that is what makes it so potent. However, chronic stimulation (as is the case for every receptor in the body), results in fewer active receptors and thus diminished results over time. All Trans Retinaldehyde is the best form possible of the choices listed above. In addition to having its own receptor activity, it is the immediate precursor of Retinoic Acid so the skin will convert a significant amount to that form upon application. However, there will never be an over-stimulation problem because the skin regulates the conversion and just makes what it needs. Research has repeatedly shown that Retinaldehyde has a similar activity profile to Retin A but with much less irritation. We still have the same issue of poor penetration, however. By incorporating it into a liposome, we enhance its penetration (an important factor in the use of Retinols because of their size) and help prevent its oxidation which also occurs with all Retinols. Until recently, there was no way to put this extremely expensive ingredient in skincare but, thanks to our lab partnerships, we have been able to bring this exciting ingredient to the professional marketplace.

*Retinaldehyde is found in all the osmosis treatment serums*

*Article credited to Dr. Ben Johnson*

Fibroblasts create collagen, elastin, and GAG’s which are all critical to repairing skin density and the overall look and quality of the skin. In addition, the skin’s activity, repair capabilities and appearance are totally dependent on nutrients, antioxidants and immune support from its blood supply. The more blood supply, the better the health of the skin in every category. The unique ingredients in this serum work better on these issues than any other ingredients on the market. Retinaldehyde- liposome, as an example, is the most active retinol available without prescription. While prescription Retin A can be as effective, it is over-irritating to the skin which adds to the workload and makes it less than optimal. Retinaldehyde-lipsome, on the other hand, is extremely active in generating blood flow and stimulating fibroblasts without the irritation because it penetrates).  Many “anti-aging” products contain peptides. Since our research shows they only plump the skin and have no effect on collagen and elastin, we do not really consider these treatment ingredients. However, we use Argirilene in addition to our 6 collagen stimulators because a little plumping is also nice. We believe that 6 fibroblast stimulators (makers of collagen, elastin, GAG’s) are better than one as we are trying to stimulate collagen in every way possible. Osmosis likes to think of it as “saturating” the skin with remodelers.

Correct / Renew / and  Boost restore dermal thickness, remodels scarring from photodamage, increases skin’s nutrient and immune support, protects skin from UV rays, restores the epidermal barrier, hydrates, normalizes oil, clears acne, reduces fine lines, shrinks pore size.

Correct  (Level one) -  This is the first serum you will use as it has 0.5% retinaldehyde.

Renew  (Level two) – After a couple of months on correct you can begin using renew which is your level two serum and it contains .1% retinaldehyde.

Boost-(Level three) – Boost is the third level and it contains the highest percentage of retinaldehyde at .2%.

*To learn more about retinaldehyde read our next article*

*If you have been using another form of vitamin A for an extended period of time you can begin at level 2 using renew.*

*Article credited to Dr. Ben Johnson*