We all remember the devastation of discovering a blemish minutes before a big dance in high school, but just because we aren’t teens anymore doesn’t mean pimple problems are gone for good. Unfortunately, the blemish before the big dance has been replaced with the blemish before the big meeting. Since acne is a lifelong nemesis for many, there’s never a bad time to become better educated about ways to prevent and treat acne breakouts.

Beyond chocolate as the culprit. Acne starts in your skin’s oil glands. Normally, this oil, known as sebum, travels up your follicles carrying dead skin cells to the surface of your skin. However, your pores can become blocked by an increase in hormones that stops the oil from reaching your skin and causes bacteria to grow in the follicle.¹ Your body takes action against infection, causing the area to become inflamed, which results in those small, dreaded red sores, as well as blackheads and whiteheads. While your body learned to cope with the abundance of oil produced throughout adolescence, you’ve probably resigned yourself to ride out the annoying flare-ups since. Well, you’re not alone—adult acne affects more than half of all women and a quarter of all men at some time in their adult lives.²

Don’t surrender. If you suspect that your cosmetics may be contributing to your blemishes, try to spend a few weeks makeup-free and observe the results. It’s also important to cut down on stress and stick to a regular skin care regimen, which includes washing your face every morning and evening. While that’s a great start, there are times when it may not be enough. Supplement your regimen with a product that helps treat the condition with the Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.^™ System. CLENZIderm M.D. is the only prescription-strength acne system that contains a unique form of 5% benzoyl peroxide designed specifically to penetrate to the root of your acne problems.

Clear skin fast and help maintain a healthy complexion for a lifetime with CLENZIderm M.D. Also, be sure to see your dermatologist at least once a year. We carry Obagi CLENZIderm M.D. at Parkway Plastic Surgery. Call or stop in today to purchase.

Summer is right around the corner, and you know what that means—time to open up the windows, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the outdoors as much as possible. Before you get to show off that new bathing suit and hit the beach, here are a few other things to consider to look and feel great all season long!

• Apply sunscreen properly. Saying “yes” to sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the harsh rays of the sun. Be generous with your application and make sure to reapply at least once every 2 hours—more frequently if you’re sweating or jumping in the pool. Also, try to slather it on at least 30 minutes before going outside so you can get the most protection. Obagi Nu-Derm Sun Shield SPF 50 not only shields against UVB and UVA rays, its non-greasy formula applies completely sheer in an elegant, matte finish that feels great on your skin.
• Buy a new hat. There’s no better time to show off a stylish hat than the spring and summer (other than a royal wedding, of course!). Between wide-brimmed options, caps and yes, even visors, there’s bound to be something out there for every outfit. Remember, hats will allow you to stay fashionable while protecting your face from harmful UV rays.
• Find your perfect sandals. Be kind to your feet. It can be easy to wear out sandals after a year or two, which is also a great excuse to buy a new pair! Stylish ones are always nice, but try to find something that keeps you comfortable. And because nothing goes better with new sandals than smooth feet and freshly polished toes, treat yourself to a pedicure! Also, don’t forget to apply sunscreen. Your feet deserve the same sun protection as your face and arms, but often get overlooked.
• Give your skin some additional TLC. This is the prime time for showing off some skin, so why not take some steps to make sure yours is at its best? The winter can cause skin dryness, so be sure to moisturize and exfoliate your body so it looks and feels soft and supple. Sunless tanners are also a great way to get a gorgeous glow.

Gearing up for the summer isn’t difficult, but it does take a little bit of prep work. What else are you doing to get ready for the warm weather season?