The Real Story: Skincare in your 20’s

May 02, 2016

By: Jill Koetje-Aesthetician

I don’t know about any of you, but as a teen I totally failed in the skincare department. I had breakouts constantly & just when I thought they were going away a new one would start. I couldn’t fight the urge to pick at the blemishes (seriously how hard is it to not pick at them though?!), which always made it worse. What’s even worse than that? I went tanning all the time with no sunscreen on to try to clear it all up. Not good. At the time I always looked forward to being in my 20’s – “The age where I would have perfect skin”. Ha!! Flash forward to today & my skin still is not as I dreamed it would be (as I now know many women my age can relate to). I still struggle with the random breakouts I thought I would leave behind me. Plus, not only do I have to worry about breakouts but I also have to start thinking about fine lines, wrinkles & the sun damage that causes age spots & hyperpigmentation.

A great benefit to working in the aesthetic industry is that I have been trained well & exposed to a number of products & procedures that have helped me on my journey to “perfect “skin. So where does one start on their journey? My number one recommendation for ANYONE at any age would be to make sure you are wearing a sunscreen EVERYDAY! Yes, EVERYDAY-even if you are going to be inside all day, even if it isn’t sunny out – wear it. Wearing a sunscreen is your best defense against the sun’s damaging rays. Fun fact – they can even penetrate through windows & clouds. Not only does it help to protect you from more serious illnesses like skin cancer, it will also help to prevent hyperpigmentation & the breakdown of cells that causes fine lines and wrinkles. I wish I would have known this when I was younger. I used to lie out in the sun with baby oil on! Believe me, even at 28 I’m paying for it. One of my favorite sunscreens carried at CPS is SkinMedica’s Total Defense and Repair SPF 34. I love that I am getting the kind of protection my skin needs along with the anti-aging benefits from the advanced antioxidant complex in it. And did I mention it goes on wonderfully under makeup? Yes, a sunscreen/ anti-aging product that really works under makeup!

The next thing I would recommend is using an antioxidant. As I mentioned above in reference to TDR, antioxidants are a very important part of any anti-aging regimen. They protect your skin from environmental factors that cause your cells to break down. When cells break down it translates to the appearance of fine lines wrinkles, lack of elasticity, & hyperpigmentation. While there are many antioxidants to choose from one of my favorites is SkinCeutical’s CE Ferulic. It is a phenomenal serum that you apply in the morning under your sunscreen for additional protection.

Now that we’ve covered daytime protection, let’s talk about night time products. The single most impactful product you can use at night is a Retinol. A Retinol’s main function is to help with cell turnover. Speeding up cell turnover translates to smoother looking skin, decreased breakouts, minimized pores, minimized fine lines and wrinkles, & lightened hyperpigmentation. Yes, one product really does all of that! Because Retinol increases cellular turnover & is an exfoliating product, initially your skin can look red & dry. For anyone starting a retinol regimen, my suggestion is to start applying it 1-2 times weekly slowly increasing the number of applications until your skin builds up a tolerance for it. You can also start with a “lower dose” like SkinMedica’s Retinol 0.25 & move up to 0.5 or 1.0 when you are ready.

Want to go beyond the products in your medicine cabinet? A wonderful treatment to start off with is the SkinCeuticals Micropeel. It will help to give your skin a healthy glow, while working to combat the early signs of aging. It is a very light chemical peel with no downtime that can be done on a lunch hour! Micropeels have helped my skin significantly since I started having them done. I find that I have fewer breakouts & that my skin is smoother, healthier, & brighter. It’s also helped to reduce the appearance of some of the sun damage from my sun worshiping days. I recommend coming in every 4-6 weeks & because it is a lighter chemical peel, it is safe to do so. Another great option would be Microdermabrasion which has similar effects on skin to a Micropeel. The difference is that Microdermabrasion is a physical form of exfoliation versus the chemical exfoliation you get in a Micropeel.

Another hot topic is Botox. Lately, my younger patients are often asking “when is the right time to start?” While it’s not part of my job to inject patients, I do feel that I have a great insight on the topic. Neuromodulators like Botox & its newer competitor Dysport work by relaxing the facial muscles that we use to make facial expressions. It’s true that an expressive face will lead to wrinkles! Earlier use of neuromodulators will actually stop the lines from forming to begin with, in essence slowing down the aging process. My advice is to see an experienced & trusted injector before you decide to start injections. While it may seem like it’s worth it to hunt down the next best coupon offer your face is too important to risk! An experienced professional will be able to properly evaluate your skin & determine an appropriate course of treatment. Lucky for you, we just happen to have two highly trained injectors in our office😊.

Although my skin is still a work in progress, by using medical grade skincare products and skincare treatments, I have been able to correct much of the damage caused during my teens. It is never too early to start caring for your skin & I wish I would have known what I know now when I was younger. If you have questions & concerns it never hurts to have a consultation. My colleagues & I are committed to providing the best level of care with each individual patient’s needs in mind.

What is Non-Surgical Facial Feminization

June 01, 2023

If you’re asking yourself how to look more feminine, facial feminization surgery isn’t your only option. We break down the alternatives to surgery, including dermal fillers, bio-stimulators, laser hair removal and more than can help you achieve a more feminine face without going under the knife.

Do I Need CoolSculpting or Plastic Surgery?

April 28, 2023

We get a lot of questions about CoolSculpting vs. plastic surgery (like liposuction, tummy tucks or body lifts). Both can remove fat from your body, so which is right? The answer: it depends. Learn why and how we can help you decide.

Aesthetician vs. Esthetician vs. Dermatologist: Understanding the Difference

April 18, 2023

Learn the differences between an aesthetician, esthetician, and a dermatologist. Understand the benefits of seeing an aesthetician and when you should see a dermatologist.

CoolSculpting: The Top Four Negative Reviews Explained

February 16, 2023

At the Centre for Pure Skin, CoolSculpting is a popular procedure but it is not for everyone. Are you considering CoolSculpting but are unsure if it is worth your time? Have you heard mixed messages about CoolSculpting? We want to set the record straight! Here are the top four negative reviews about CoolSculpting explained.

Dry or Dehydrated Skin? Our top tips on both.

December 21, 2022

Brace yourselves — winter is coming. Dry and dehydrated skin tends to really rear its ugly head in our cold, long, long, long, (did we say long?), West Michigan winters. However, did you know that there is actually a difference between the two? Both skin issues are less than desirable for most, can be easily mistaken for one another, and be quite difficult to manage. So how do you figure out what to do? Have no fear. We're here to fill you in on everything that you need to know about dry and dehydrated skin.

The Skin Care Pyramid: Daily Prevention

January 17, 2022

With the new year upon us, many of us are taking stock of our lives. This time of year tends to spark the need to consider our routines and activities, and seek opportunities to improve the areas of our lives that aren’t quite working. If skin care isn’t a priority for you, now is the perfect time to consider establishing a healthy and effective daily regimen.

The Three R’s: Retinol, Retinoids, and Retin-A Explained

September 21, 2020

In this time where we all seem to be seeking youthful, healthy, flawless skin, terms like “Retinoid”, “Retinol”, and “Retin-A” have reigned supreme as buzz words surrounding all the latest skin care must haves. It’s not surprising when these “magic creams” lay claim to reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brightening lackluster skin, fighting acne breakouts, and improving firmness and elasticity. But what exactly is the difference? If you’re confused, you are not alone. Let us explain.

3 Common 2020 Skin Care Issues and How to Handle Them

July 21, 2020

2020 has been quite the year and has definitely brought some unexpected changes to the Centre for Plastic Surgery! From closing our doors for weeks, to keeping people safely distanced in our waiting room, to the ever so contentious “maskne” that seems to be plaguing patients, 2020 has been all about learning to navigate our “new normal.”

“All Natural” vs Medical Skincare: Your Guide to an Effective & Affordable Routine

March 19, 2020

Summer is the season when we shed the layers, lighten things up a bit and go with more of an au naturel look. We pack away the sweaters and embrace the beachy wave hairstyles. Typically we even lighten up what we eat, replacing the hearty warm meals with grilled chicken salads and fresh fruit. Many of us often focus on a simple, more natural skincare and makeup routine as well. In fact, some really take the “all natural” concept seriously and reach for organic skincare makeup products. After all, organic and all natural is always better for us, right? When it comes to skincare products, this is not necessarily the case.

Filler Magic: The Three Most Surprising Uses for Dermal Fillers

December 10, 2019

Dermal fillers are well-loved, for good reason. They have the ability to smooth away wrinkles and reduce many common signs of aging; however, dermal fillers can do so much more! Most famous for the cheeks and lips, fillers are an excellent option for those with these aesthetic issues but do not want to undergo invasive surgery. However, the magic of fillers doesn’t stop there.

A Guide to the Common Side Effects of Botox Injections

June 05, 2019

You may be a veteran when it comes to Botox Cosmetic® treatments, or perhaps you have never mustered up the nerve to try it. Either way, there’s a good chance you don’t really know what Botox consists of. You just know it does wonders for your facial wrinkles! When used in small doses, it successfully treats a variety of health problems such as

A Complete Guide to Pure Skin Dermal Fillers

February 26, 2019

George Bernard Shaw once said, “You don’t stop laughing when you grow old, you grow old when you stop laughing.” So by all means, keep laughing and enjoy this journey we call life! Though our laughter and smile displays our inner beauty, it often leaves behind signs of aging. Over time our smiles, smirks, frowns and scowls inevitably affect the volume and surface of our skin, resulting in a less youthful appearance as we age. At the Centre for Pure Skin, we are here to help you age gracefully and beautifully. One way to reverse the signs of time is through the use of cosmetic dermal fillers. By using dermal fillers, we can restore volume and tackle those smile lines so you can laugh in the face of old age.

Benefits of Male Laser Hair Removal

February 05, 2019

Are you longing for the Michigan thaw and warmer temps? Perhaps you get lost looking out the window at the frozen tundra and envisioning weekends on the beach or at the pool. And then you are interrupted by the thought of the dreaded summer “manscaping” routine. Maybe you are one of the many men who have more body hair than you prefer, and it becomes even more an issue for you in the summer. Or your “manscaping” is a year round issue and never ends. If you are ready to look into male permanent body hair removal , keep reading. At Centre for Pure Skin, we can help you break free from manscaping, nicks, ingrown hairs and razor burn.

The Top Three Questions You Need Answered About Laser Hair Removal

January 23, 2019

Am I a good candidate for laser hair removal? What should I expect during the actual treatment process? How do I make the most of my laser hair removal treatments? The top three questions asked about laser hair removal are answered.

3 Important Reasons to Consider Dermal Filler in the Midface

August 20, 2018

Dermal Fillers are a safe, conservative, and effective way to correct signs of aging. The aging process begins with a slowing in the production of the hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin that gives us the look of youthful, smooth, and supple skin. It begins in our 20’s and continues to decline throughout our lifetimes. Then as we age, we begin to develop bone loss, fat loss, and muscle atrophy that exacerbates the appearance of skin laxity, hollowness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Most fillers are comprised of the hyaluronic acid that is found naturally in the body and safely absorbed over the duration of the filler. One of the main areas of the face that patients regularly have injected is the mid-face (cheek area). Injections in this area can correct many of the main concerns that you may have with the appearance of your face. Here are three great reasons that patients seek dermal filler injections.

3 Things You Need to Know About Microneedling

January 28, 2018

ONE Microneedling (a.k.a. Collagen Induction Therapy) is a treatment that causes micro-injuries to the skin stimulating the body’s own natural wound healing process. Causing minor trauma in the upper layer of the dermis induces the release of cytokines and growth factors that lead to the remodeling of collagen and elastin, therefore diminishing the visible signs…

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Does CoolSculpting Really Work?

November 03, 2017

Does CoolSculpting Really Work? By: Julia Weston CoolSculpting has consistently been one of the most popular treatments at the Centre for Plastic Surgery. This decade has brought many innovations to non-invasive aesthetic procedures and patients have caught on. They want easy treatments with little to no downtime, and CoolSculpting is one of those treatments. One…

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How about a NOT so average spa day!

February 27, 2017

By Carlie Zervan on January 04, 2017 at 3:43 PM, updated January 04, 2017 at 4:01 PM With the dry winter air taking its toll on your skin, you are probably seeking spa treatments to counteract the damage. Spas can be relaxing and produce short-term results but if you are looking to really pamper your skin this…

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A Bride’s Story

February 21, 2017

By: Julia Weston Flashing back to early 2016 I was the brand new to the Centre for Plastic Surgery and trying to come up with fun ways to get people engaged. With the non-stop flood of beauty and skincare information out there it’s always a challenge to stand out. I had just transitioned from a…

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What is Intense Light Pulsed therapy?

July 18, 2016

By: Dr Leppink Intense Pulsed Light therapy is one of the workhorse skin treatments at the Centre for Plastic Surgery. IPL can be thought of as a variation on a laser, with the treatment directed primarily at pigmentation and fine blood vessels or redness in the skin (such as rosacea). The light energy is absorbed…

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The Real Story: Skincare in your 20’s

May 02, 2016

By: Jill Koetje-Aesthetician I don’t know about any of you, but as a teen I totally failed in the skincare department. I had breakouts constantly & just when I thought they were going away a new one would start. I couldn’t fight the urge to pick at the blemishes (seriously how hard is it to not…

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What You Need to Know About Coolsculpting: Transform Your Body Without Surgery

March 14, 2016

  Mlive Blog Post By: Carlie Zervan   No matter how excellent your diet and exercise regime may be you might still have certain problem areas that remain unchangeable. If you are frustrated that your hard work and self-control aren't paying off, you should consider CoolSculpting. What is CoolSculpting? Want results but you don't want to…

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4 Tips for Your Healthiest Skin

February 25, 2016

4 Tips for Your Healthiest Skin By: Carlie Zervan- Mlive   One of the first things that we notice about another person is the quality of their skin. In today's society our faces can be out there at any time for the world to see. It's no wonder that according to feelunique.com, Americans spend more than 38…

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My Big Day!

February 14, 2016

By: Kendra Afton   It’s Valentine’s Day & love is in the air! At the Centre for Plastic Surgery it seems like there is a wedding or a new baby every other week. This past year was a big one for me as I became a wife to my wonderful husband Brad. Because of my unique situation in…

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3 Basic Skin Care Steps for Men

October 22, 2015

By: Douglas Leppink M.D.    The idea of skin care for men has been gaining momentum recently. Men are exposed to the elements too (sun, wind, dry, cold) and need not only skin protection but also help with restoring and renewing the appearance of their skin. In a competitive work place a youthful appearance can…

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Review & Tutorial: How to Achieve the Perfect Sunless Tan At Home

August 11, 2015

By: Jill Koetje, Medical Aesthetician Being in the skincare industry and not wanting to ruin my cared for skin, I have tried countless self tanners to get the “fresh off the beach” look without harming my skin. I’ve had times where I looked like an oompa loompa, a streaky mess, my hands were a different…

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Kendra Gets Beautified for the Big Day!

July 09, 2015

Our lovely Patient Care Coordinator, Kendra, is getting married on August 21st!  She wants to look her absolute best for one of the most important days of her life!   Since Kendra works in the perfect setting to achieve this goal, she will be taking full advantage of the skin treatments, injectables and body contouring options available…

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Summer Sun Protection Tips

June 04, 2015

By: Jessica Cook, Aesthetician  With summer fast approaching, this is the time I really have my patients be mindful of sun protection.   You should first make sure that you are wearing a minimum of a broad spectrum SPF 30 on your face daily.  (Broad Spectrum simply means you are protected from both UVA & UVB rays).  If you…

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4 Reasons Why Our Clients Love Juvederm Voluma

March 26, 2014

4 Reasons Our Clients Love Juvederm Voluma By: Emily Mersman, PA-C I’ve had the tremendous privilege to help our clients throughout the Grand Rapids, MI area make educated decisions as to which dermal filler will best suit their needs. Let’s be clear – when it comes to dermal fillers, there’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.  In…

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When A Treat Is Actually A Trick

October 31, 2013

Not only is a great skin care regimen important to our appearance as we age, what we put into our bodies is equally important to maintaining a youthful look. Yoga Wellness expert, Michele Fife educates us on how those “treats” are really affecting us. We all have our treats and their triggers. A good…

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When is the right time for your first Botox treatment?

June 06, 2013

When is the right time for your first Botox treatment? 40? 50? 60? The right time is BEFORE you see the effects of aging take shape in fine lines and creases. Let discuss the recent experience of a 27-year-old teacher who found the need to be proactive in caring for and preserving her youthful appearance.…

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Fears About Fillers?

May 08, 2013

Fears About Fillers? Let's Face Facts. We have discussed some the common myths and misconceptions about Botox injections, but what about fillers? Second only to Botox injections, fillers are on the rise as one of the most popular cosmetic treatments to reverse the effects of aging. According to the Huffington Post, 1.9 million treatments with…

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Under Eye Rejuvenation – Surgical and Non-Surgical

May 01, 2013

As we age it is not uncommon for fullness under the eyes to become more prominent. This occurs because fat pushes against weaker eyelid muscles, and can contribute to a face that looks tired and prematurely aged. A redistribution of cheek fat below the eyelid can accentuate the fullness, and the result is a crease extending from the inner aspect of the eyelid to the cheek, often referred to as a “tear-trough.”

Skin Care 101: The Importance of Sunscreen

February 26, 2013

We have all been told the importance of wearing sunscreen, but the American Cancer Society reports over two million cases of skin cancer annually. Unfortunately, those statistics are not likely to improve, unless we begin to take the importance of wearing sunscreen seriously. How Sunscreen Works Sunscreen prevents the harmful effect of the sun on…

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