skin care Archives - Ashley McFarland

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The Perfect Time for Fraxel: The Ashley McFarland Aesthetics Guide

Posted on by Mcfarland-ClientWP

Fraxel treatments have been a buzzword in the aesthetic industry for quite some time now, and with good reason. This non-invasive laser procedure promises to target the very layers of our skin that cause aging, sun damage, and uneven skin tone. However, as with all things concerning our skin, timing and preparation are key.

Welcome to the Ashley McFarland Aesthetics guide on why this is the perfect season for a Fraxel treatment and how the AM Skin Collection will ensure your skin is in tip-top condition for it.

Why Now is the Perfect Time for Fraxel

The cooling temperatures of the season make it ideal for laser treatments. Sun exposure is one of the major factors that can affect the results of Fraxel, leading to potential complications and reduced efficacy. During this period, with shorter days and longer nights, you’ll likely spend less time under the harsh sun, making it the best time for recovery.

Understanding Fraxel: A Skin Revolution

Fraxel is a fractionated laser treatment that works on both the surface and deeper layers of the skin, promoting rapid cellular turnover and collagen production. Unlike other laser treatments that target the entire skin surface, Fraxel focuses on microscopic columns of skin, leaving surrounding areas untouched. This approach not only allows for quicker healing but also ensures a more targeted treatment.

The Fraxel Effect: From Deep Within

  1. Collagen Boost: One of the primary functions of Fraxel is its ability to stimulate collagen production. Collagen, a protein found abundantly in our youth, diminishes with age, leading to sagging skin and the formation of wrinkles. Fraxel, by promoting collagen synthesis, helps in restoring skin’s elasticity and firmness, giving it a more youthful appearance.
  2. Targeting Sun Damage and Pigmentation: Years of sun exposure can leave our skin with sunspots, uneven tone, and other pigmentation issues. Fraxel is exceptionally adept at targeting and treating these irregularities, giving you a clearer and brighter complexion.
  3. Refining Texture: Fraxel isn’t just about the deeper layers; it’s equally effective on the surface. Those struggling with rough texture, enlarged pores, or superficial scars can expect a smoother, more refined skin texture post-treatment.
  4. Addressing Deep-Set Wrinkles: While surface-level fine lines might be easier to tackle, deep-set wrinkles require a more potent approach. Fraxel, with its penetrative capabilities, can reach these deeper layers, softening even the most stubborn of wrinkles.

Pre-Treatment: Setting the Stage with Skincare

Before diving into any aggressive skin treatment, preparation is paramount. Think of your skin as a canvas – the smoother and more primed it is, the better the end result.

This is where the AM Skin Collection comes in. Founded by Ashley McFarland, this line was meticulously crafted to ensure that your skin receives optimal nourishment and care, especially in preparation for something as transformative as Fraxel.

1. Koji Glow Pads: The star product in our collection, these pads are infused with Kojic acid, which works wonders for brightening the skin, reducing dark spots, and providing an even skin tone. Using this in the weeks leading up to your Fraxel treatment can help ensure that the laser works on a skin that’s already radiant and even.

2. Silk Serum: Packed with a cocktail of hydration and skin-loving ingredients, this serum ensures your skin remains plump, reducing the appearance of fine lines. Its silky texture also ensures optimal hydration, a must before undergoing Fraxel.

3. Night Magic: As the name suggests, let this serum work its magic overnight. It aids in skin regeneration, ensuring that your skin’s natural repair mechanisms are functioning at their best.

4. Get Glowing Serums: For that extra boost of Vitamin C, the Get Glowing serum promises just what its name suggests. Perfect for ensuring your skin is in its best state.

Aftercare and Beyond

Once you’ve undergone your Fraxel treatment, the AM Skin Collection continues to be your ally. Ensuring that your skin remains hydrated and nourished post-treatment can significantly impact the final results, making our range an ideal choice for both pre and post-treatment care.

If you’ve been contemplating Fraxel now truly is the golden window, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Get to Know Our Night Magic Serum with Retinoids

Posted on by Mcfarland-ClientWP
Our AM Skin Collection Night Magic Serum, created by our founder – Ashley McFarland. Incorporating a product like our Night Magic Serum with Retinoids into your routine can help support these natural processes, ensuring that your skin stays radiant, resilient, and youthful.

Picture this: you wake up, run your fingers over your face, and feel a surface that is smooth, supple, and bouncy. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? For many, this dream can become reality with the magic of retinoids, a true powerhouse in the realm of skincare. Retinoids are not only acclaimed for their skin-transforming benefits, but they are also the star ingredient in our AM Skin Collection Night Magic Serum with Retinoids. Ready to transform your skin? Let’s start your journey to glowing, healthy skin with the magic of retinoids.

Demystifying Retinoids

Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, have stood the test of time in the world of dermatology and skincare, holding their own amongst an ever-evolving roster of ingredients. But what exactly are retinoids and why are they so impactful?

Retinoids are potent compounds that promote cell turnover and collagen production. In essence, they help your skin shed dead cells more efficiently and replace them with fresh, new cells. This promotes a smoother skin surface, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and can even help combat acne. Retinoids also help boost collagen, a protein that provides structural support to your skin. This leaves you with skin that’s not just glowing, but also firmer and more resilient.

How Do Retinoids Work?

Retinoids work on a deep, cellular level. They essentially “communicate” with your skin cells, sending signals to accelerate the growth of new cells while eliminating the old ones. Additionally, retinoids also hinder the breakdown of collagen, which is often responsible for the onset of visible aging signs. By ensuring the health and vitality of your skin’s cells and supporting collagen integrity, retinoids help keep your skin youthful and vibrant.

Why Try the AM Skin Collection Night Magic Serum?

If you’re ready to give retinoids a try, there’s no better way to start than with our AM Skin Collection Night Magic Serum. It’s a meticulously formulated serum that harnesses the power of retinoids, combined with other essential ingredients, to optimize their skin-rejuvenating benefits.

Our Night Magic Serum includes a retinoid that is gentle yet effective, making it suitable for those who are just starting to incorporate this powerful ingredient into their routine. We understand that every skin type is unique, and while retinoids have an array of benefits, they can also be potent. That’s why our Night Magic Serum includes calming and moisturizing ingredients to soothe and hydrate your skin.

The magic doesn’t stop there. Our serum also boasts antioxidants, which provide an additional layer of defense against environmental aggressors that contribute to aging. This synergistic blend of ingredients creates a powerful, yet balanced, formula that caters to a broad spectrum of skin types and concerns.

Taking Your Skin Health Seriously with the Night Magic Serum

Your skin is a living, breathing organ, and like the rest of your body, it deserves care and attention. As you age, your natural cell turnover and collagen production slow down. Incorporating a product like our Night Magic Serum into your routine can help support these natural processes, ensuring that your skin stays radiant, resilient, and youthful.

Remember, the path to healthy skin isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. Consistency is key when using retinoids. Over time, you’ll start to see a visible transformation in your skin’s texture, tone, and overall health.

Experience the magic of retinoids and our Night Magic Serum today and embark on your journey towards a more confident and glowing you. After all, there’s nothing more magical than feeling comfortable and beautiful in your own skin.

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Ask AMA: What is Microneedling & PRP

Posted on by Mcfarland-ClientWP

Looking to easily fix your dull skin?

If you want to start a new chapter in your skin health journey, this is the perfect place to start. Here is what you need to know about this procedure.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a device with tiny, shallow needles that create hundreds of invisible and controlled puncture wounds on the top layer of the skin. If it sounds painful and aggressive – it is not because you will be numbed before the procedure starts! 

These micro-wounds trigger the body to produce new collagen, elastin, and capillaries, plumping the skin and breaking up scar tissue. Which will then target fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, sagging skin and scarring. 

The more procedures you get done, the more improvement you’ll see in your skin texture, firmness, and the level of hydration in your skin. 

What can I expect during treatment? 

If you give us an hour of your time, we can make magic happen with this Microneedling tool. 

  • Step 1: One of our skin providers will prep your skin by cleansing and numbing your face.
  • Step 2: They will then apply a serum to make sure the skin is hydrated and protected.
  • Step 3: Then the microneedling will begin! 
  • Step 4: The provider will protect your skin with post-procedure cream and an SPF. 

How does it feel?

The best part about this procedure, is that you are completely numb from Step 1. This makes it easier for our providers to go deeper into the skin without you feeling the needles that are working their magic. 

Your skin will turn red and may even bleed a bit, which is completely normal. You’ve got to remember that this procedure is creating those controlled puncture wounds on the top layer of the skin. Without it doing that, then your skin wouldn’t be able to produce bring up all that new and fresh collagen. 

What will my recovery be like?

  • The day of treatment: Once you are done with treatment, your skin will most likely be red for the remainder of the day. Anytime your skin is healing like this, you’ll want to avoid heat and sweat on your face. Meaning, no exercise, hot tubs, and saunas for 24 hours. 
  • 24 hours after treatment: Your skin may feel a little tight! However, the redness will have faded. One of the things you want to understand is that the mico-wounds heal very quickly. It’s like how a paper cut heals within a day or two. Feel free to apply makeup 24 hours after your treatment. 
  • 48 hours after treatment: You may experience dryness, scaling, redness and swelling 2 days after treatment, but that is completely normal and should go away within the next few days. If your skin is peeling, use a mild exfoliant to remove the dead skin from your face. 

After every procedure, make sure to keep skin hydrated and to always wear SPF. Your skin is especially attracted to the sun after a procedure like this, so make sure to protect it! Also be sure to avoid retinols and brightening ingredients while your skin continues to heal. 

When will I see the results? 

Get ready to watch your skin turn from dull to glowing, from dull to smooth, and from dry to hydrating. 

If your skin is especially stubborn, it may take multiple treatments to get your skin to where it needs to be – but that is something that one of our providers will plan with you.

What is PRP and how do people use this with Microneedling?

If you haven’t heard about PRP yet, then you are about to get really excited about what this “liquid gold” can do to your skin. 

Platelet-rich plasma, also known as PRP, is a great addition to microneedling treatments because it makes your skin transform in ways by the help of your own skin.

PRP is taken from your very own blood. People often think it’s red because it’s coming from your blood, but we separate the blood and the PRP comes to life as a golden color, which is why we call it “liquid gold”. We call it this because of its extraordinary rejuvenating properties in healing the skin faster and repairing it quicker.

Ashley drawing blood
Ashley using the centrifuge
Ashley retrieving the “liquid gold”

How does PRP work?

Step 1: We draw your blood in the office and then separate it in a centrifuge. It takes a few minutes to get it completely separated. 

Step 2: The PRP is then applied to your face after the numbing cream and can also be injected beneath the skin’s surface to stimulate new collagen production and to promote healing. If you have deeper lines and creases in your face, then this is the perfect combination for you. 

All of our providers think this is a great procedure if you’re interested in starting your skin health journey. Give us a call today to get scheduled! 615-663-0072

Which ZO Skin Health System is right for you?

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The Low Down

We know that starting a skin care routine can be overwhelming! Our goal at Ashley McFarland Aesthetics is to make skin care simple by targeting specific skin concerns and addressing them. The first step to having healthy, glowing skin using quality, medical grade products at home. By doing such, you are able to enhance your in-office procedures and protect your most important investment – your skin!

With that being said, it is safe to say that our office loves ZO Skin Health products! One of the many great qualities of ZO Skin Health is there is a skin care system to address almost all skin concerns and problems. Each system can be customized to patient specific needs and achieve results quickly and affordably!

ZO’s Daily Skin Care Program

image of ZO Skin Health Daily Skin Care Program

A must-have for ANY skin type. Included in the program are the Exfoliating Cleanser, Exfoliating Polish, Complexion Renewal Pads and Daily Power Defense.  

Benefits include: 

+ Helping to preserve and maintain a more youthful- looking complexion

+ Improves and maintain the appearance of even skin tone and finer pores

+  Keeps skin hydrated

Especially Ideal for: Any skin type/condition

This is the foundation of ALL ZO Skin Health Systems as preventative or treatment. 

ZO’s Anti-aging Program

image of ZO Skin Health Anti Aging program

The perfect way to start taking care of aging skin. Whether 25 or 75, you can benefit from the products within this program. The products included are Exfoliating Cleanser, Exfoliating Polish, Complexion Renewal Pads, Daily Power Defense and Growth Factor Serum.

Benefits include:

+ Helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

+ Promote a more even-looking skin tone and finer pore appearance

+ Preserves and maintains a more youthful-looking complexion

Especially Ideal for: Premature or active signs of aging. 

ZO’s Skin Normalizing System

image of ZO skin health skin normalizing system

The ZO Skin Normalizing System is a complete selection of products for red, sensitized skin. This is a system fabulous for active rosacea or those whose skin is reactive and inflamed. This system features Rozatrol, a multi-modal treatment that relieves the visible symptoms known to be associated with rosacea. Products included in this kit include a Gentle Cleanser, Exfoliating Polish, Oil Control Pads, Daily Power Defense and Rozatrol. 

Benefits include:

+ Helps to restore skin to a more radiant appearance

+ Provides mild exfoliation to help smooth skin texture and even skin tone

+ Minimizes the appearance and feel of inflammation

+ Helps replenish hydration and supports a healthy skin barrier function

Especially Ideal for: Sensitive skin, red skin and Rosacea.

ZO’s Brightening Program

Image of ZO skin Health brightening program

The perfect system for those with sensitive skin that suffer from dark spots, dull skin or premature aging. This multi-product, skin therapy system helps aid in visible treatment of hyperpigmentation without the use of hydroquinone and retinol. Included are Zo’s Gentle Cleanser, Exfoliating Polish, Complexion Pads, Daily Power Defense and Brightalive.

Benefits include:

+ Improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation when hydroquinone treatment is completed or contraindicated, or as maintenance

+ Ideal for non-specific visible discoloration (freckles or uneven tone)

+ For use when skin brightening is desired

+ Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Especially Ideal for: Skin with sunspots, dull skin, aging skin.

ZO’s Pigment Control Program

image of zo skin health pigment control program

An all-encompassing system formulated to help treat hyperpigmentation, severe texture damage, sun damage and general skin health restoration.

Included in this program are ZO’s Gentle Cleanser, Exfoliating Polish, Complexion Pads, Daily Power Defense, Pigment Control Crème, as well as Pigment Control + Blending Crème. 

Benefits Include:

+ Treats moderate to severe hyperpigmentation, especially melasma

+ Treats severely dry, dull, rough and leathery textured skin to help restore a smooth, healthy glow

+ Great to use as pre/post procedure skin conditioning to help maintain results longer

+ Helps improve overall appearance and quality of skin

Especially Ideal for: Textured skin, sun damaged skin, melasma.

ZO’s Complexion Clearing Program

image of zo skin health complexion clearing program

Suffering from oily skin? Stubborn acne? Look no further than ZO’s Complexion Clearing Program. This is a comprehensive program designed to minimize excess surface oil, unclog and purify pores and reduces the appearance of irritated skin, eliminating current and preventing future breakouts.

Included in this program are ZO’s Exfoliating Cleanser, Exfoliating Polish, Complexion Pads, and Complexion Clearing Masque. 

Benefits Include:

+ Reduces excess surface sebum

+ Exfoliates skin cells to help unclog pores

+ Tightens pores

Especially Ideal for: Oily and acne prone skin. 

Think you have decided which ZO Skin Health system is perfect for you? Contact us to get yours today!