Recently a new patient arrived in the office requesting a consultation concerning her skin. The 30-40 something was concerned with fine lines, laxity, pore clogging and discoloration. Referred by a family member whose skin was “radiant” and “beautiful”, this patient was seeking a regime that would render the same radiant, beautiful results for her. After careful examination, I made recommendations and proceeded with demonstrations of products along with written instructions and explanations for their use. The final part of the consultation included a question and answer session. The patient was examining the products and said “there are parabins in this product”. “Yes”, I said “that is only to preserve the product”. “I only use products that are not harmful to my body”, she said, thanked me for my time and left. The fact is one must treat what ails them and be realistic about their goals. Drama results from not having all of the information necessary to make an informed decision. Parabins are simply preservatives that have been proven to reduce bacterial and fungal growth in skin care products and cosmetics. SOME consumers believe that they cause cancer, influence estrogen levels and accumulate in tissues that would increase UVB mediated DNA damage. This thought stemming from a study that involved rats. The amount of parabins used in the study was 10,000 times what one would get from using skin care products with parabin. It does not apply to humans that is why the FDA continues to approve their use.
Conkright Aesthetics has three skin care lines, Obagi, Jan Marini Skin Research and Therapon. I like to think we have something for everyone. Not everyone has the same expectations, needs or budget, thus the goal statement at the beginning of the consultation appointment. Proper education about the products, their efficacy and safety are crucial and can save a lot of drama… Radiant, beautiful skin stems from using skin care products that will best cleanse, rejuvenate, resurface, hydrate and protect. Therapon products are parabin free but a lot less aggressive, come in smaller containers and do not address the needs of all. Obagi and Jan Marini do include parabin, but have products to address most skin care needs, are more aggressive and are available in larger sizes. All of the products offered in this office are only sold in physicians offices and offer 100% patient satisfaction.
Martha Hahus-Clinical Nurse Coordinator