An ingredient widely used in skin care products for many, many years, mineral oil has been starting to receive bad press lately. And while some individuals may be sensitive to this relatively innocuous ingredient, the majority of us have no trouble with it at all. In fact, mineral oil is a very useful ingredient in skin care formulations, which I’ll explain further on.

Where Does Mineral Oil Come From?  

Mineral oil is derived from petrolatum. It is colorless and odourless and widely used in cosmetics for its ability to strengthen the skin’s barrier. It is also very well tolerated by most individuals. It is also available in different grades ranging from unrefined (used to lubricate machinery) to grades that are highly refined and purified. It is this highly refined form of mineral oil, referred to as cosmetic grade mineral oil, that is used in skin care products. Cosmetic grade mineral oil is highly refined and pure, so you shouldn’t have to worry about contaminants.

Does Mineral Oil Clog Pores?  

Early studies have claimed that mineral oils, derived from crude oil and often used in jobs such as metal-cutting and to keep machinery lubricated, can be harmful to the skin because it forms a thin film that suffocates the skin, leading to blocked pores and unsightly rashes or pimples. However, a recent study published in Blackwell’s Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, points out that while industrial grade mineral oil may be comedogenic - a term used to describe cosmetics that cause blackheads and whiteheads - cosmetic grade mineral oil is not.

In the study, volunteers tested a formulation containing cosmetic grade mineral oil applied to their upper back over a period of several weeks. Results of the test proved, categorically, that the cosmetic grade mineral oil was not comedogenic.

Is Mineral Oil Safe?  

Many ‘natural’ cosmetics companies will try to convince you that because mineral oil is derived from petrolatum it is necessarily bad. One of the reasons that many companies will do this is to try and convince you to buy their ‘better, mineral oil-free’ alternative. What you should keep in mind, however, is that studies have shown mineral oil to be one of the safest and most effective moisturizing ingredients available.

Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at PharmacyMix.com and a wellness consulting practice at MidlifeBalance.com .

With the weather heating up, it’s easy to get confused about which sunscreen is the right one for you. We all know that protecting your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays is an essential part of maintaining skin’s health and youthful appearance, but do you choose a physical blocker or a chemical blocker. Both types are effective and each has its inherent benefits and potential drawbacks. Today, I’ll explain how physical and chemical sunscreens work to protect your skin and help you decide which solution is better suited for you.

Physical Sunscreens

Physical sunscreens work by shielding your skin from UV rays. This is achieved by covering the surface with small particles. Ingredients used in physical sunscreens include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These ingredients deflect the UV rays and prevent their penetration into your dermis. Physical sun filters can protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. In order to provide full spectrum coverage, sunscreens must include zinc oxide which protects against a broader spectrum of ultraviolet wavelengths.  

A major drawback of using sunscreens with physical sun filters is that they can leave white streaks and a heavy residue when applied. However, some brands use new technology that incorporates micronized or nanoparticles making the formulations appear invisible on the skin, while still providing ample protection against UVA and UVB rays. This new technology can be found in brands like Keys Solar Rx , which incorporates zinc oxide in a very pleasing formulation. It has become one of my personal favorites.  

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens use synthetic agents such as avobenzone, Tinosorb S and Tinosorb M, Octylcrylene along with Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl XL as active ingredients. Rather than coating your skin like a physical sunscreen, the active agents in chemical sunscreens are absorbed into your skin. Instead of blocking UV rays from the top of your skin's surface, they absorb the UV radiation before converting and releasing it as energy. Chemical sunscreens can offer broad protection against both UVA and UVB rays. What is important is in selecting one that does offer protection against both, generally achieved with a combination of filters.

Though generally well tolerated, chemical filters may irritate some skin types. The newer ones such as Tinosorb M and Tinosorb S, Mexoryl XL and Mexoryl SX are less likely to do so. As well, dermatologists often recommend sticking with a physical blocking sunscreen in very young children.

Which Sunscreen Is Better?

Both physical and chemical sunscreens can effectively protect your skin from UV radiation. Both have inherent strengths and potential weaknesses.  

The important thing is to identify your skin type and any skin conditions you may have. Then, select a sunscreen that protects your skin from a wide spectrum of UV rays. Whichever you decide is right for you, it’s more important that you get into the habit of applying sunscreen liberally on a regular basis.

Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at PharmacyMix.com and a wellness consulting practice at MidlifeBalance.com .

Ceramides are one of three types of lipids (fats) along with cholesterol and free fatty acids that are found in the stratum corneum, the top layer of the epidermis, the skin’s covering. These three lipids have many different functions in the body. In addition to helping to maintain the skin’s protective barrier, ceramides also function as cell signaling agents.

There are nine different types of ceramides in the stratum corneum, named ceramide 1 to ceramide 9 and they make up between 40-50% of the lipids in the stratum corneum. Studies have shown that individuals with dry skin conditions such as eczema have significantly fewer ceramides in their stratum corneum. Interestingly, individuals with psoriasis have been found to have normal numbers of ceramides, but fewer of some types and more of others.

Ceramides Can Improve Eczema  

We know that lipids in the stratum corneum can be replaced with topical preparations. And best results are achieved when lipids are applied in certain ratios to restore the skin’s barrier function. The use of ceramides in the treatment of eczema has demonstrated good results.

While ceramides aren’t the only component to the management of dry skin, you may want to consider incorporating a ceramide containing formulation if you have dry skin or eczema. Here are two to consider:

Impruv Barrier Repair Cream - This formulation contains ceramides plus other lipids to help strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.


La Roche Posay Nutritic 2. or 5 - Natural biolipids mimic the skin’s ceramides to restore the skin’s barrier function.

Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at PharmacyMix.com and a wellness consulting practice at MidlifeBalance.com .

Also called niacinamide, vitamin B3 is one of several topical vitamins that has been studied in order to identify its potential benefit to the skin. A lot of ingredients have disappointed dermatologists due to low efficacy in treating various skin problems. However,  vitamin B3 has undergone clinical testing and established itself as being useful when applied topically. How does niacinamide work and what benefits can it deliver to improve the appearance of your skin? Let’s examine these as well as the clinical studies that have been conducted.

How Vitamin B3 Helps Your Skin  

There are 2 important enzymes (NADH and NADPH) that contribute to the production of cellular energy and lipids (responsible for cell growth). With a sufficient supply of both enzymes, your skin creates an effective barrier to external factors that influence the aging process. However, the levels of both NADH and NADPH decline as we grow older. When applied topically, vitamin B3 seems to reduce their rate of decline.

Because topical application of niacinamide can help preserve levels of NADH and NADPH, it contributes to the support of the skin’s barrier against pollutants and other irritants. As a result, many skin conditions, such as acne, the redness associated with rosacea, and other inflammatory signs can be actively managed. Also, vitamin B3 has shown to be useful for encouraging the production of natural emollients that can help the skin remain hydrated.

Clinical Tests With Niacinamide  

While research is ongoing to uncover additional properties of vitamin B3, a number of clinical tests have already been conducted. A study organized by Proctor and Gamble found that not only is niacinamide well-tolerated by all skin types, but also reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation, redness, yellowing, and blotchy spots on the face.

A group of 50 women between the ages of 40 and 60 participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study with randomized testing over a 12-week period. Randomization was done between a moisturizer lacking a niacinamide concentration and one with a 5% concentration. The results showed that the latter topical solution yielded more noticeable effects than the former.

Further, a clinical test was conducted by the Department of Life Science at the University of Seoul. The study found that cells which were exposed to vitamin B3 endured less oxidative damage, results that are consistent with an antioxidant. And, studies have also shown that niacinamide may be useful in increasing skin’s elasticity as well as in the treatment of wrinkles.

Proper Skin Care  

Every skin care routine should include well formulated sun protection like Anthelios" rel="nofollow" target="vblank" href="https://www.pharmacymix.com/selecting_anthelios_and_mexoryl_sunscreen.htm/,">Anthelios">https://www.pharmacymix.com/selecting_anthelios_and_mexoryl_sunscreen.htm/,">Anthelios sunscreens  antioxidants and moisturizers suited to your skin type. The addition of niacinamide (i.e. vitamin B3) to your routine can also help manage skin conditions such as rosacea and acne. It may also be a useful addition to an anti aging skin care regimen.

If you are interested in adding niacinamide to your routine, consider La Roche Posay Rosaliac Cream  It’s formulated with niacinamide plus other skin beneficial ingredients to  strengthen the skin’s barrier protecting against redness and breakouts. Consider Rosaliac UV for daytime use.

Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at PharmacyMix.com and a wellness consulting practice at MidlifeBalance.com .

While zinc doesn’t enjoy the same level of attention as other high-profile nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, or sulfur, it does play an important role in your overall health and the appearance of your skin. When a zinc deficiency exists, it can lead to problems involving your immune system, your body’s ability to heal wounds, and a number of skin disorders. Today, I’ll explain how zinc helps to preserve the health of your skin. Plus I’ll provide you with a list of a few dietary sources that can help to compensate for a deficiency.

Benefits Of Zinc For Your Skin  

There is some evidence that acne may be partially associated with a reduced zinc supply within the body. The reason is thought to be related to its ability to limit oil secretion in the pores. Zinc is also known to encourage the production of collagen fibers and elastin. Both help support the underlying structure of the skin, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Zinc has been known to improve symptoms related to rosacea. While there isn’t a known cure for rosacea, ingestion of zinc supplements has shown positive results. Finally, topical application of zinc oxide can provide a level of protection from the sun’s UV rays.

The above is not to suggest that zinc supplements are the most appropriate solution for treating acne, building collagen fibers, or protecting the skin from UV radiation. Specific formulations have been created to address each of those issues. Rather, I want to emphasize that a nutritional deficiency of the mineral can lead to visible effects on the skin.

How A Zinc Deficiency Occurs  

The supply of zinc within your body can decline for a few reasons. First, if your diet doesn’t include foods that contain the mineral, you won’t be able to replenish your body’s supply. Second, there are times during which your body will require a higher level of zinc than normal. For example, during pregnancy or lactation, the body’s zinc requirement will rise. If dietary changes are not made to increase the intake, it can lead to a deficiency.

Third, the body’s absorption of zinc is more efficient when the mineral comes from animal products. Those who follow a strict vegetarian diet, or otherwise don’t consume meat products, can be susceptible to a zinc deficiency. Red meat, poultry, and pork are rich sources of zinc. Other foods include dairy products, beans, oysters, almonds, and whole grains.

Your Skin Requires More Than Zinc  

You can avoid a zinc deficiency by including foods in your diet that have a high content of the mineral. And, topical skin care products containing zinc may help if you try to combat oily, acneic skin or are looking for a protective sunscreen. However, zinc alone is not sufficient for maintaining the healthy appearance of your skin. Any skin care routine can benefit from well formulated sunscreens, moisturizers, antioxidants and exfoliants.

Here are some zinc containing skin care preparations to consider:

La Roche Posay Effaclar Foaming Purifying Gel - This soap free cleanser contains zinc to help to control excess sebum (oil)


Keys Solar Rx - This physical sunscreen blocker contains zinc oxide as its filters making it ideal for sensitive skin types or those who wish to avoid a chemical formulation


La Roche Posay Cicaplast - This healing, protective formula helps to speed skin healing with madecassoside, copper, zinc and manganese.

Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at PharmacyMix.com and a wellness consulting practice at MidlifeBalance.com .

It seems as if the majority of skin care products and cosmetics on the market today have some component that promises to get rid of wrinkles. Everything from moisturizers to makeup is marketed as being able to reverse the signs of aging. As you might imagine, millions of women who want to appear younger with healthy-looking skin are attracted to “anti wrinkle” creams and treatments. But, it’s important to note how cosmetic manufacturers use such phrases in their marketing to entice people to buy their products.

What do “anti wrinkle” and similar terms mean in the context of improving the appearance of your skin? I’ll explain how skin care companies weave these phrases into the advertising campaigns to increase their sales. Finally, we’ll look beyond the marketing into formulations that can address the issue of wrinkles and fine lines.

How Cosmetic Manufacturers Market Products  

Cosmetic companies discovered long ago that there is an insatiable demand for skin care products that promise to make people appear younger. In fact, by including terms like “anti wrinkle” and “anti aging” on the packaging of their products, they can, in effect, market to our instinctive nature. But, what does “anti wrinkle” actually mean?

The term “anti wrinkle” is used in marketing to suggest that a skin care product can permanently reduce - or even remove - the appearance of wrinkles. That is, “anti wrinkle” creams and treatments are supposed to have the ability to erase signs of aging. Cosmetic manufacturers liberally use the term to imply that their product is the next miracle solution.

Looking Beyond Marketing  

While many topical formulations contain ingredients that have proven track records for improving the appearance of your skin, many don’t deliver permanent results. What’s more, they can’t perform as effectively as Botox or laser treatments.  

If you remember what causes wrinkles, you’ll understand why topical solutions are somewhat limited in what they can achieve. Wrinkles are caused by internal and external influences that limit the skin’s ability to retain moisture and the deterioration of collagen and elastin. An anti-wrinkle cream or treatment can help (assuming it contains the right ingredients with a high enough concentration), but cannot erase the problem.

How To Reduce The Appearance Of Wrinkles  

The best approach to dealing with wrinkles is to take preventative measures:
1. Apply a broad spectrum UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen daily, year round.
2. Use a moisturizer that can help your skin retain moisture. When skin is hydrated, the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines is minimized.
3. Try to avoid cigarette smoke and other irritants.
4. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants and micro nutrients to provide your body with the nutrients it requires for healthy skin.

There are also several useful ingredients that can help prevent the spread of free radicals, which deteriorate collagen fibers. Topical formulations that contain retinol  antioxidants like vitamin C  and peptides such as Matrixyl  not only help prevent free radical oxidation, but can also encourage production of new collagen.

In the end, be wary of “anti wrinkle” creams and treatments that seem to offer little more than slick marketing. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at PharmacyMix.com and a wellness consulting practice at MidlifeBalance.com .