Questions

1. What is Squalene?       

Squalene is a remarkable nutrient produced in our bodies and is also found in nature. It belongs to a class of antioxidants called isoprenoids. An isoprenoid is a cell-friendly molecule that neutralizes the harmful effects of excessive free radicals in the body.

2. What are free radicals?

Free radicals are unstable molecules with unpaired electrons. When these invade the body cells, they act like knives that slash cell membranes of our body. Excessive free radical production due to environmental pollution, harmful UV radiation and toxic chemicals poses a tremendous threat to our body cells causing disease states such as cancer, atherosclerosis, arthritis, diabetes, dermatological system disorders, cataract and other age-related diseases of man.

3. How do free radicals damage the cell?

Free radicals damage our cells in many ways. Picture a healthy cell with a cell membrane, which is the protective coat of the cell. At its center is the nucleus with an enveloping nuclear membrane. Free radicals can cause damage by:

- Breaking off the cell membrane, destroying the cell’s identity.
- Puncturing the cell membrane, allowing harmful bacteria and viruses to enter easily.
- Destroying the nuclear membrane, exposing the nucleus and the genes.

This series of destructive events render the cell susceptible to mutation of cells, immune system disorders, cell death, tissue damage and eventually diseases.

4. Why is there a need to protect our cells?

Cells are the basic unit of life. Our bodies are composed of hundreds of millions of cells. Cells combine to form the entire human body. Life and health begins at the cell level – the healthier our cells are, the healthier we are. Unfortunately, our bodies are undergoing unprecedented attack from pollutants, carcinogens and increased ultraviolet radiation which induces the formation of excessive free radicals in the body. Our bodies cannot cope up with increased free radical production.

5. What are isoprenoids?

Our bodies are protected with cell-friendly molecules called isoprenoids. Very simply, isoprenoids are a group of organic molecules consisting of isoprene units. An isoprene unit is a benchmark of efficacy of an antioxidant. It is the isoprenoids chief weapon in fighting cell damaging free radicals. The more isoprene units and the more stable the isoprenoid molecule the more effective the isoprenoid is in neutralizing free radicals. Isoprenoids are found in nature. Vitamin E, Vitamin A, lycopene, beta-carotene and coenzyme Q10 are all isoprenoids. Olive oil and various plants contain isoprenoid but only in minimal quantities. A rich source of natural isoprenoid is Squalene.

6. What are the beneficial properties of the isoprenoid – Issho Genki Squalene iP6?

ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6’s foremost benefit is cell protection – protecting our cells from the disease-causing effects of free radicals. A healthy cell leads to a healthy body. The healthier our cells are, the healthier we are!

Various studies and laboratory findings have established that Issho Genki Squalene iP6 is a cancer preventive agent. It prevents ordinary cells from becoming cancer cells.

ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 protects the heart. Conclusive evidence shows that Squalene iP6 is able to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, particularly the bad cholesterol [LDL-cholesterol] and increase levels of good cholesterol [HDL cholesterol]. It thereby protects us from the risk of heart attack and stroke.

ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 helps prevent premature aging. Squalene is found abundantly in human skin and is considered the skin’s natural antioxidant. It effectively combats free radicals induced by UV rays of the sun. It thereby makes the skin healthier, radiant and younger-looking.

7. How does ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 differ from other isoprenoids?

There are mixed and pure isoprenoids and these differ from others in function and potency. Isoprenoids such as vitamin E have three isoprene units, ubiquinone [also known as coenzyme Q10] have ten isoprene units. Both Vitamin E and CoEnQ10 are called mixed isoprenoids because the isoprene units are attached to a mother molecule.

Squalene is a pure isoprenoid – wherein it is not attached to another molecule. It has six isoprene units providing it stability in its function as an antioxidant. The stability of the isoprenoid molecule determines its effectiveness in combating cell damaging free radicals. The more stable the isoprenoid, the more free radicals are neutralized, and the more cells are protected.

8. What is the best source of isoprenoids?

Squalene can also be found in olives, green and leafy vegetables, and wheat germ but only in minute quantities, which are insufficient to replenish the much-needed isoprenoid as a person ages. An abundant source of Squalene can be extracted from the livers of the deep-sea dogfish, which are encapsulated and taken in as dietary supplements.

Not many of us know that Squalene is already present in our bodies, primarily in the skin. We were born with an abundance of natural Squalene. That is why when we were babies, our skin is radiant, soft and smooth. But as we reach the age of 25, the levels of this isoprenoid decreases, resulting to the occurrence of various disease conditions. It is in this light that the need for additional supplementation of the isoprenoid arises – Squalene is needed to replace that which was depleted.

ProBioSkin.com Genuine Squalene is a rich source of natural isoprenoid.

9. Is ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 safe?

ProBioSkin.com Genuine Squalene iP6 is guaranteed to be 99.9 percent pure and natural Squalene as certified by the Japan Food Research Laboratories – one of the most stringent laboratories in the world. With this, consumers are ensured that what they are taking is pure-grade, high-quality Squalene without the presence of synthetic additives, artificial colorings or preservatives.

Scientific research and clinical trials have shown that Squalene is safe as a dietary supplement in food and in capsules and no untoward incidents have been reported in the use of Squalene. Squalene has been used by the Japanese people for centuries and has attributed their strength and health to this substance.

And besides… what can be safer than a substance which is already present in your bodies.

10. Are there any side effects associated with taking ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6?

So far, no untoward reactions have been observed, noted, nor documented in the use of ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6.

People who have experienced allergies or side effects may be taking impure squalene or mere shark or fish liver oil. It should be noted that shark liver oil is not Squalene. Shark liver oil is composed of a variety of other substances such as retinol A, mercury, zinc, lead, arsenic, and Squalene. Squalene is pasteurized, processed and encapsulated as a separate substance from shark liver oil. The danger with raw shark liver is the presence of toxic substances such as PCB [Polychlorinated biphenyl] and DDT [Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane], which are believed to be carcinogenic.

11. Can ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 be taken together with other vitamins, medicines or supplements?

Yes. It is important to understand that ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 is a natural food supplement and not a drug. It does not interact nor is it contraindicated with other medicines. You can safely take it together with your other drug regimens, vitamins and other health food supplements.

12. Do you need a prescription for ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6?

No. ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 is not a drug that requires a prescription from physicians. It is classified as a health food supplement that is completely safe. On the other hand, more and more well-informed physicians are recognizing the health-giving benefits of this substance and are routinely recommending it for their patients as an antioxidant – cell protector.

13. Can ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 take the place of vitamins?

Squalene and vitamins are substances whose chemical structures and functions completely differ. To substitute one for the other is not feasible. Vitamins have an important role to play in nutrition and there is a need to take them. Squalene, however functions in cell protection, cell renewal, and eventually to disease prevention.

14. Where does ProBioSkin.com Squalene iP6 come from?

ProBioSkin.com Squalene is extracted from the liver oils of the deep-sea dogfish – a very prolific fish that can be found in just about every region in the world. The deep-sea dogfish is just one variety of dogfishes, which come from the same classification as that of sharks. There are about 350 different species of shark and about 70 species of the dogfish.

15. Is the dogfish in danger of being extinct?

The dogfish is a very abundant fish. The International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature called this specie the dogfish due to the fact that it is found abundantly in almost all parts of the world. While the dogfish belongs to the shark family, it is not among the endangered species list. A recent report from the Seafood Research Laboratory of New Zealand, says there is currently no danger of over-fishing.

16. Is Squalene found only in the deep-sea dogfish?

No. In fact, Squalene is found in olive oil, green and leafy vegetables, wheat germ oil but only in minimal quantities that may not provide enough health benefits to your body. The liver oil of the deep-sea dogfish is the only natural source that can provide pure, abundant natural Squalene which, when extracted provides significant antioxidant benefits to your body.

17. Would consuming olives provide the necessary levels of dietary Squalene in the body?

Squalene is present in olives in minimal quantities not enough to provide the needed isoprenoids in the body. The only rich source of dietary squalene comes from the liver oils of the deep-sea dogfish. You would be required to consume barrels of olives to get the necessary levels of the isoprenoid Squalene in your body.

18. Are there any scientific publications about Squalene?

Yes. Aside from the vast array of research and studies done on Squalene’s beneficial effect, scientific publications can be noted such as the book “Squalene – Treasure of the Deep,” by Dr. Takashi Yokota – Japan’s foremost authority on Squalene research. This book exhaustively discusses the nature, beneficial effects and clinical applications of Squalene.

A book by Dr. Bikul Das, a research fellow from the University of Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, authored a book entitled “The Science Behind Squalene – The Human Antioxidant,” which contains scientific and medical facts and findings about Squalene as an excellent isoprenoid antioxidant. The book is currently hailed as the most credible book on the subject – Squalene.

19. Are there clinical studies done to validate the health benefits of Squalene?

Yes. Various research papers and clinical studies in Japan have been done to evaluate the cancer preventive action of Squalene.

A large epidemiological study conducted in Greece found that people using a Squalene rich diet have a decreased risk of prostate cancer.

Documented clinical studies have been done in Taiwan to evaluate the effects of Squalene in reducing bad-cholesterol levels in people with high cholesterol levels.

Currently, Dr. Bikul Das of the Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute in Toronto, Canada are studying the effect of Squalene in reducing tumor growth.

Ongoing studies are being undertaken worldwide to determine further Squalene’s additional health benefits.

20. Are there any certifications to verify the purity of Squalene iP6?

The Japan Food Research Laboratory – one of the most stringent laboratories in the world provide certification on the purity of Squalene iP6. It does not contain any toxic substances such as PCB nor DDT.

The University of Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute provides a certification of official use of Squalene iP6 in all their studies on the substance. Certificates show that Squalene iP6 contains 99.9% Squalene contents.

Questions & Answers to ProBioSkin.com

Question [a]: Client [1]

18.7.11 Joanne – Brisbane Queensland Australia

Run out of my product, how do I go about ordering, skin feeling tired again, breaking out, slightly oily?

I have just run out of the olivine garden serum that you gave me when we met back in April.

How do I go about ordering some more and now interested to know what other products you might suggest.  Although I have been using the serum every morning, I admit my skin is not feeling as nice as it did a few months ago, it is feeling tired again, breaking out and even a bit oily, just how it was when I came to see you.

I would appreciate any advice and recommendations ASAP as I currently have nothing left and might have to go to a local chemist to get something for the immediate time.

Answer [a]: Client [1]

18.7.11 Joanne – Brisbane Queensland Australia

Run out of my product, how do I go about ordering, skin feeling tired again, breaking out, slightly oily?

Lovely to hear from you again Joanne.

Climate is probably responsible for some of the "downside" in your skin at the moment as it responds to the elements, cold, heaters, fires etc and tries to compensate.  Also our diet is different during Winter months and as the body tries to retain natural oils from the environmental stressors.  You may find our “Acai-Berry Beautiful Antioxidant” internal supplement a great natural support for your tired skin.   If you are tempted to visit a local Chemist, ordering from www.ProBioSkin.com  is very quick and efficient and as soon as you email or order off our website stipulating required size and product required, delivery can be overnight Domestic Post and your order is on it’s way to the rescue.  

It is important with your skin type to use products that do not have chemicals or ingredients that will create a heavy clogging.   

Remember ProBioSkin.com are concentrates so you do not need big quantities - shake the bottles prior to use as they do not contain fillers or suspension agents. It is important to keep to your routine every day - cleanse with a non-chemical cleanser and also to exfoliate gently either once or twice a week: I recommend you read up well on the website about each product – there is a lot of information there on how to enjoy and use our products:

The website is: www.ProBioSkin.com  -   Video YouTube’s are already available on the website for some products however they are extremely simple to use.  We are constantly adding to the website with more information, further options, more explanatory and educational Videos and articles.

Recommended products for you and your skin condition: Routine

Step 1. 

Am & Pm - Gentle Cleansing Lotion - non foaming - 4 - 5 drops on hands and massage over face and neck then rinse well - this will not stimulate the oil glands and will cleanse gently without stripping the skin mantle.  

Step 2. 

Pm - once a week - AHA Exfoliating Whip - 3 - 4 drops on hands - Massage over face and rinse off. I find this great to use in the shower and I often use this Whip at the same time as washing my hair - prior to my cleanser - exfoliate first and then cleanse so that all the Exfoliating Whip is removed.  When I do this I let the water wash over my head and face, as in a rain shower.  Cleansing for the hair, skin and mind!  Then I use my cleanser.

Step 3. 

Am - Vitamin B Serum - 2 - 3 drops on hand – pat together – massage gently or “press” over cleansed face - leave on

Step 4. 

Pm - Vitamin A Night Serum - 2 - 3 drops on hands – massage gently or “press” over face - leave on over night

Step 5. 

Am & Pm - Micro SunProtect Moisturiser - 3 - 4 drops – massage gently in upwards movements over face and neck [Micro Moisturisers can be used day or night]  OR, at night just use the Olivane – Citrus, Rose or Spice Infusion – I suggest Rose for you Joanne – hydrating and luxurious - make sure you are only using a few drops as any extra is just too much.  Make sure you have cleansed your face prior and have rinsed well.  

ProBioSkin.com Skin Care Consultant

Question [b]                   Client [2]

31.8.11 – From Mel – Gold Coast, Queensland Australia  

37years – Skin loosing it glow – lines – polycystic ovaries, hormonal skin, oily skin, AHA products, combination of dehydrated, lack luster skin, blackheads, spots, milia.  

I am wondering if you may be able to help me.  I stumbled across your website and was wanting some advice re your products. I am tired of buying very expensive skincare and finding it congests my skin.

I'm no spring chicken, at 37, and of recent time have noticed my skin is losing its glow, and lines are starting to make their way into finding a home on my face!  I, in earlier years, struggled with polycystic ovaries, and therefore hormonal skin.  To combat that, I found myself using products for oilier skin, and AHA products.  These worked a wonder, as did my pregnancy, and things were going okay for a while.  In the meantime, behind the scenes, my skin was becoming dehydrated.

I now find that I have a combination of dehydrated, lacklustre skin, coupled with blackheads on my nose, and little blackheads along with some tiny congestion lumps on my chin area.  This has remained the case for years now. I have tried every product possible, and do find myself coming back to Dermalogica mostly.  If I treat the dehydration with something more nourishing I end up with spots, or milia.  If I treat the congestion and blackheads I end up more dehydrated and lacklustre.  It’s a battle, and a double-edged sword.

In the meantime I am pouring money down the drain as generally I can only use the products a couple of weeks and then find the congestion etc taking hold, and as a single parent with a special needs child, I can't afford to keep doing that. I'm hoping you may be able to give me your opinion re products?  Any advice

you can give me will be much appreciated.

Answer [b]:                   Client [2]

31.8.11 – From Mel – Gold Coast, Queensland Australia

37years – Skin loosing it glow – lines – polycystic ovaries, hormonal skin, oily skin, AHA products, combination of dehydrated, lack luster skin, blackheads, spots, milia. 

Thank you for your email to us at ProBioSkin.com  Your email is very informative and you know your skin well!

To address where your skin is at now:

Balance is always the hardest thing to achieve in any area of life & with skin it is always the balance between the outside & inside environments that is the key.

Being a parent is a 24/7 commitment like nothing we have ever before been committed to. Our time & focus is directed their way, with love and good intentions to help them grow & flourish in life.  Gone is our preoccupation with our selves & it is only every now & then we consciously acknowledge the need for some "me time".

Some basic essentials for healthy skin like the 1-2 litres of water a day, fresh fruit, raw foods, sitting while eating & not eating while doing 5 other things, exercise, cleansing & nurturing our skin.... all seem to be distant memories for the average day of work & family. It takes conscious planning to balance all of our responsibilities, including those responsibilities to our selves.

As you mentioned, the congestion & blackheads seem to go hand in hand with the dehydration & tired skin. This is partly due to a cycle of over & under production of sebum & an inability of the skins natural oils (the sebum), to successfully condition & protect the skin. This stems from a combination of body function, nutrition & environment - all of which you have mentioned, in your skin history.

With our ProBioSkin.com products, we are aiming to support the skin in its natural function, in its desire to want to function naturally (it is an innate desire of the body to want to restore balance - homeostasis) & to nourish and protect the skin in its environment. This is why, in our range, for example with the vitamin serum therapy, you are able to mediate which vitamin serum or serums, you use according to your daily/weekly activities & the impacts of these you notice with your skin.

To start with we would advise:

Cleanse with the Gentle Cleansing Serum am & pm - this will cleanse your skin effectively, soften & emulsify the "caps" & "cores" that are the blackhead congestion blocking the pores. Take care to massage gently into the skin, especially the most congested areas. (It is easy to use a few drops of this when in the shower and remove with a face cloth or fibrella cloth). We think it is best until you have achieved more "normal" skin function that you cleanse morning & night. It is a very supportive cleanser & will not strip the skin in order to cleanse. Our cleansers are just as much about balancing skin pH & oil flow as they are about cleaning!

In the AM, after cleansing with gentle cleansing serum:

- Apply Vitamin B Light. This will support & address your concerns with dehydration, lack-lustre skin and also working to regulate healthy sebaceous activity (balance the imbalance between your blocked pores & the dry areas).

- Apply Vitamin C Serum. Addressing the lack of skin vitality, Vitamin C will encourage radiance, skin tone & texture. With essential oils of sweet orange, mandarin, bergamot & lemon, you will feel & see the benefits of this aromatherapy combination. Vitamin C promotes healthy collagen & elastin production - all positives when concerned with ageing & facial lines.

Note: When applying Vitamin B & Vitamin C, massage each in gently over the whole face & neck (in upwards strokes over neck) to ensure encouraging the circulation & lymphatic flow, penetration of the product & being nice to your self!

- Apply Micro 125 SunProtect Moisturiser over face, neck & exposed chest. This is a beautiful, light moisturiser that will protect your skin from UV rays, it is an antioxidant for the skin, & is hydrating & nourishing.

You will find that even though you have applied 3 products they are not layers on top of your skin. The product penetrates, is absorbed into the skin to where it is of the most benefit. Your skin will feel fresh, nourished & supple. You will have sun protection. You don't need to wait in between applications, it will only take a few minutes.

In the PM, after cleansing with Gentle Cleansing Serum:

- Exfoliate on alternate evenings with the AHA Exfoliating Whip. This product addresses exfoliating the congestion & debris from you skin by "mechanical" & "chemical" means. The "mechanical" is by spherical jojoba beads that roll over the skin pushing & lifting dead skin cells, dirt, congestion, gently off. The "chemical" action is by the AHA's presence - Lactic, Malic, Glycolic all working to "unglue" a cocktail of dirt & debris, dead skin cells, sweat & oil from the skin's surface, whilst penetrating & benefitting the skin with increased cellular production & hydration. Rinse off with fibrella or face cloth.

Note: You can choose to use AHA Exfoliating Whip first then cleanse if you prefer to ensure the exfoliating whip is removed well. [Best results when used in the shower!]

- On alternate evenings to the AHA Exfoliating Whip, use the AHA Exfoliating Serum, shake then a small spray and press into the skin.

Leave on & then apply Vitamin A Serum. This will serve to gently stimulate the skin to repair, hydrate, renew. It is like no other AHA Exfoliating Serum as it will not dry or burn your skin. On some evenings you will feel a slight tingle in 1 or 2 spots, sometimes several spots, this is a reflection of the work your skin has done for the day, where it has been the most stressed!

- Apply Vitamin A Night Serum and massage in well. For night only, Vitamin A Night Serum serves to support healthy cell wall & regular cell formation.  Important also, for anti ageing & balancing your congestion.

- Apply Olivane  Serum - Citrus Infusion as your evening moisturiser to gently & lightly nourish and sooth your skin. This will feel like your skin is being kissed - slightly warming in feel & aroma, an antioxidant for the skin and perfect to heal & hydrate while you are sleeping.

(If you are going out in the evening, instead apply the Micro 125 Moisturiser over the Vitamin A Night Serum for a luminous glow & calming moisture treatment).

All of our ProBioSkin.com skin care products, have the presence & benefits of pure Olive Squalene - your skin will recognise the product as “family-familiar” & welcome to its surface & to its function.

The regime I have described will work beautifully to address & support all that you have expressed concern for.

To balance the budget, we have different sizes available. For example, purchasing the 30ml Gentle Cleansing Serum, 30ml Exfoliating Whip, 15ml AHA Exfoliating Serum,15ml Vitamin B Light, 15ml Vitamin C Serum, 15ml Vitamin A Night Serum, 30 ml Micro 125 Moisturiser, 15 ml Olivane Serum Citrus  would be a good balance of product & will effectively be a core skin care regime.

Drinking water daily, fresh lemon in a glass of warm water 1st thing in the morning (to flush the vital organs, stimulate oxygen cycle in the body), having vital greens such as Spiralina, Barley, Alfalfa (for vegetable source of protein, vital minerals & vitamins, cleansing the blood etc. See our “Inside Story” for information on our Organic ProBioSkin.com Health Supplements – we suggest “Alkalised Green & Go” - regular exercise (even a short walk or a skipping rope) good sleep - are a few things important to a healthy skin & a health being. Taking a conscious moment to say, "I love You" to your self each day does wonders too.

I hope we have given you some answers & help with regards to our products. We are glad you have stumbled across our www.probioskin.com  site, please let us know if you would like any more info Mel. It is always a pleasure to hear from you.

ProBioSkin.com Skin Care Consultant

Comment!

Dear Amanda

I wanted to say a huge thank you to you. My skin has never looked so great, in fact, it's better now than 10 years ago! As you know, i have tried every beauty product on the market, from Dermalogica to La Mer. None of these come close to your wonderful products. I have only been using them a few months, but in that short time I've seen such a turnaround in my skin. I was initially skeptical about using oil based products on my skin, as experience taught me it would likely be a greasy disaster. However, that didnt happen - your products are amazing. There are no other products  in store that come close. Likewise, the passion, generosity and interest you have shown towards getting my skin right surpasses any kind of service I've experienced in any salon around the world. And I've been to many. I can't thank you enough.

Question [c]:                   Client [3]:

19.9.11 Janene – NSW  

SunScreen Products?

Can you tell me more about the sunscreen products please? Is there anything else I should be thinking about using.

Answer [c]                   Client [3]:

19.9.11 Janene – NSW  

SunScreen Products?

I would recommend the Micro 125 SunProtect Moisturiser  for you - it has SunProtect Micronised Zinc oxide - also Jojoba, Avocado, Olivane, Rose & Lavender amongst all the other fine ingredients.  Excellent for sensitive, dehydrated, ageing, inflamed or rosacea suffering skins.  It is nourishing, anti-inflamatory, hydrating, calming and healing.  

Remember it is a concentrate so only have to use 1/2 a five cent size - in other words, just a small squirt from the dropper.  Shake the bottle each time.  A 30ml size is ample as it will last.  Do not use too much because you are really just wasting it - you will be surprised just how far it goes so start off just giving a very small squirt from the dropper after shaking the bottle - patting hands together and rubbing a tiny bit then press out over face.  If you feel it is not enough then it is easier to add a little more rather than have too much.  I always rub any excess on the back of my hands. 

Question [d]:                  Client [4]:

30.9.11 Sally – Wellington - New Zealand  

Commenced using a Cleanser in 30’s – want to look younger, wrinkles and bags around eyes, monthly blind pimple.

I would be very interested in trying your products, I don’t know much about it all as have never been that good with my skin (as in only started using cleanser in my 30’s…… might be why I have problems now! )

Anyway would love to look a bit younger, with my wrinkles around my eyes and bags under them being my biggest problem with my monthly blind pimple being my second!

Answer [d]:                  Client [4]

30.9.11 Sally – Wellington -  New Zealand  

Commenced using a Cleanser in 30’s – want to look younger, wrinkles and bags around eyes, monthly blind pimple.

In response to your enquiry Sally would be to commence a regular simple skin care routine of : Cleanse –Exfoliate – Vitamise – Nourish – Protect.

Being familiar with the Wellington climate and taking into consideration your comments on your monthly blind pimple being included, I would recommend that you also consider some hormone balancing intake – which will also assist your skin condition.  Our “Inside Story” page on Organic ProBioSkin.com Supplements have some of natures finest hormone supporters – see “Alkalise Green & Go.” 

Firstly for your Skin Care routine I would recommend that you commence with the following:

Cleansing Serum – AM & PM  

Just a few drops onto damp hands and pat over face – massage in slightly and rinse off – best under a shower – this will leave the skin feeling fresh, soft, clean and also nourished!  Cleansing Serum does not strip the skin of the essentials – pat dry gently.

Secondly AM I would recommend that you use the beautiful Vitamin B Light.  Shake the bottle then just 3 – 4 drops onto the hands – pat together then gently press over face until all is on the face.  Vitamin B Light will support & address your concerns with dehydration, lacklustre skin and also working to regulate healthy sebaceous activity (balance the imbalance between your blocked pores & the dry areas).

Vitamin C Serum is another strong recommendation for you especially with your longer winter, [and do I dare to mention the wind in Wellington!] Vitamin C Serum will address the lack of skin vitality, Vitamin C Serum will encourage radiance, skin tone & texture. With essential oils of sweet orange, mandarin, bergamot & lemon, you will feel & see the benefits of this aromatherapy combination. Vitamin C Serum promotes healthy collagen & elastin production - all positives when concerned with ageing & facial lines.

Note: When applying Vitamin B Light & Vitamin C Serum, massage each in gently over the whole face & neck (in upwards strokes over neck) to ensure encouraging the circulation & lymphatic flow and penetration of the product.

For your climate in the Winter I would recommend the Micro 250 SunProtect Moisturiser – however for the Summer months the Micro 125 would be my choice – shake the bottle and apply 3 – 4 drops onto the hand, rub hands gently together and then massage in upwards strokes gently over face. 

In the evening I would cleanse then:

Exfoliate on alternate evenings with the AHA Exfoliating Whip. This product addresses exfoliating the congestion & debris from you skin by "mechanical" & "chemical" means. The "mechanical" is by spherical jojoba beads that roll over the skin pushing & lifting dead skin cells, dirt, congestion, gently off. The "chemical" action is by the AHA's presence - Lactic, Malic, Glycolic all working to "unglue" a cocktail of dirt & debris, dead skin cells, sweat & oil from the skin's surface, whilst penetrating & benefitting the skin with increased cellular production & hydration. Rinse off with fibrella or face cloth.

You can choose to use AHA Exfoliating Whip first then cleanse if you prefer to ensure the Exfoliating Whip is removed well. [Best results when used in the shower!]

- On alternate evenings to the AHA Exfoliating Whip, use the AHA Exfoliating Serum, a small spray and press into the skin. Leave on & then apply Vitamin A Night Serum. This will serve to gently stimulate the skin to repair, hydrate, renew. It is like no other AHA Exfoliating Serum as it will not dry or burn your skin. On some evenings you will feel a slight tingle in 1 or 2 spots, sometimes several spots, this is a reflection of the work your skin has done for the day, where it has been the most stressed!  The AHA Exfoliating Serum is perfect to apply specifically on the area where you feel the “monthly blind pimple” starting to want to come through.  Repeat once AM and again PM on the spot.

- Apply Vitamin A Night Serum and massage in well. For night only, Vitamin A Night Serum  serves to support healthy cell wall & regular cell formation. Important also, for anti ageing & balancing your congestion.

- Apply Olivane Serum -Citrus Infusion as your evening moisturiser to gently & lightly nourish and sooth your skin. This will feel like your skin is being kissed - slightly warming in feel & aroma, an antioxidant for the skin and perfect to heal & hydrate while you are sleeping.

(If you are going out in the evening, instead apply the Micro 125 Moisturiser over the Vitamin A Night Serum for a luminous glow & calming moisture treatment).

Products recommended for your Daily Skin Care Routines therefore are:

AM: Gentle Cleansing Serum – Vitamin B Light – Vitamin C Serum - Micro 250 SunProtect Moisturiser  [Winter] or Micro 125 SunProtect Moisturiser – [Summer]

PM: Gentle Cleansing Serum  - AHA Exfoliating Whip each alternate night or AHA Exfoliating Serum daily – Vitamin A Night Serum – Olivane Serum for additional nourishing & healing – Micro 250 or Micro 125

Note: ProBioSkin.com  Moisturisers can be used either AM or PM – All products can be purchased in 10ml – 50ml sizes for your convenience however we do have a specifically formulated Nourishment for Night - Micro 124 without Micronised Zinc Oxide if you prefer

For your Hormonal balancing I recommend 3 caps per day of ProBioSkin.com Squalene capsules and to top your health to optimum, 1 tsp of our Super Greens “Alkalising Green & Go” mixed in juice – best to put the Green & Go into a small bottle of juice and shake vigorously – drink immediately – or try our “Green & Go Smoothie” recipe on “Inside Story” page.

ProBioSkin.com Skin Care Consultant

Question [e]:                   Client [5]:

01.10.11 Katherine – Canada   

Combination – Dry – Mature Skin - 38years – Asian – 2 children – Dryness on cheeks – shininess and blackheads on nose – prone to pigmentation/freckles – fine lines under eyes – dull skin – t-zone – bumpiness under skin – occasional pimples – time conscious – extreme climates.

Thanks for your swift response (I'm impressed and gives me confidence on ProBioSkin products).

It's good to know that you have Stockists in Canada. 

My skin type I guess is Combination to dry mature skin. Just for your reference on the condition of my skin, although I am 38, I have always been taken as early 30s maybe due to the fact that I am Asian. However, I found my skin has aged in the past 2 years drastically, maybe due to having 2 babies within 3 years. I am having fine lines on my forehead, dryness on my cheeks, shininess and blackheads on the nose. I am prone to pigmentation/freckles on my cheeks. I also have a couple of fine lines under my eyes but not around them.

Currently, my skin looks dull. My face is smooth except the problematic t-zone areas. There seem to be bumpiness underneath the skin on the sides on the nose and chin area. The pores on the nose, due to years of bad habit in squeezing, are large. I guess I would love to increase hydration/moisture in my skin, stimulate it to increase production of collagen and decrease the oiliness on t-zone areas. I only have very occasional pimples.

I have been using Dermalogica for a very long time, it is the most consistent products I have used. However, I do not see any improvement, or more precisely I probably need additional care at this age. I have quite a collection of masks but very lazy in using them. I do not really have time to go for facial either. The climate in the part of Canada I live in is hot and humid in the summer and extremely cold in the winter. I am approaching the end of summer now. Our winter is often between -20C to -40C(with wind-chill) but sunny. The freeze wind is harsh on the skin, the reflection of sun from the snow is very strong. My current routine is cleanse, toner, mositurizer and sometimes sunblock/bb cream.

I am sorry it has gotten a bit lengthy (well you asked for it ). I hope you will be able to suggest an effective yet not too complicated daily routine for me.

Answer [e]:                  Client [5]:

01.10.11 Katherine – Canada  

Combination – Dry – Mature Skin - 38years – Asian – 2 children – Dryness on cheeks – shininess and blackheads on nose – prone to pigmentation/freckles – fine lines under eyes – dull skin – t-zone – bumpiness under skin – occasional pimples – time conscious – extreme climates.

Dear Katherine,

The following is from Amanda in response to your questions and information regarding your skin.  She too has been lengthy in answer but in decisions like our skin we need to take care and consider every angle.  I think you will find her advice very worthwhile.  

Thank you for your informative brief on your skin. It is wonderful to communicate with people who know their skin well and understand that it is a variety of factors that contribute to the condition and appearance of their skin.

 My suggestions to you based on the information you have given, would be to initiate your Probioskin.com experience with;

 Cleansing Lotion – to address congestion (blackheads, open pores & occasional pimples), t-zone oiliness, pigmentation & dullness. The presence of the AHA’s in this cleanser make it very effective with “unglueing” the daily dirt, debris, dead skin cells all bound with the skins’ natural expiring of oils & wastes congesting the skins surface.

This is a very gentle but effective cleanser, leaving no residue and not unbalancing the skins natural pH – vip!

We have a hydrating mist, best for summer or dry environments such as air conditioning, heating etc, but we do not need or have a toner in our range as our cleanser will not leave a residue that needs help to be removed or that alters the skin pH. The activeness of our products also means they do not require a separate product such as a toner to be astringent to shock or tighten the skin.

Vitamin C Serum – specifically to address the anti – aging factors & to correct environmental damages, & in supporting healthy collagen & elastin formation, skin brightness & radiance.

Vitamin B Vital – pigmentation, open pores, oil flow regulation and hydration. This beautiful Serum will also support circulation & vitality (particularly over winter) with the Vit B and the essential oils of cinammon, ginger, bergamot – warming & nourishing the skins’ immunity to the harsh winter. (the Vitamin B light with rose & lavender is perfect for the summer season).

Micro 125 – A perfect moisturiser for your skin, providing sun protection & calming with the Olivane, micronized zinc, green tea. This is a light yet very nourishing moisturiser that will support hydration at the lower levels of the dermis and will support the variance between the t-zone & the dryer areas around cheeks & neck.

AHA Serum – essential for use in the evenings on alternate nights (at least 3 x a week is best) directly after cleansing. You apply one fine spray to the hand & press gently in. This serum will address dehydration, fine lines, congestion & the odd pimples (dot directly on a spot or if you feel something threatening to come up!). It will help to balance the oil flow & open pores while encouraging new, moist & healthy cell growth.

 Vitamin A Night Serum – apply each evening (& also directly over the AHA Exfoliating Serum) to support & regulate healthy cell growth. Vitamin A Night Serum is important for the formation of strong cells walls (important to stop dehydration and irregular appearance of skin surface) Vitamin A will work through the night to continue the anti – aging process.

 Olivane Serum - Citrus Infusion– pure Squalene merged with essential oils & green tea to provide a nourishing & hydrating moisturiser that will heal & repair, soothe the skin from environmental insults. This will be perfect for supporting the skin with repair from the winter extremes of cold, wind chill & the sun exposure. What a season combination for the skin to survive!

 Routine:

AM Routine: please shake all bottles well prior to opening.

 Cleanse with a few drops of Gentle Cleansing Serum or gently wash face with face cloth & warm water.

Apply 3 drops (one small spray), of Vitamin C Serum to palm of hand, gently press over face / neck & massage into skin.

Apply 3-4 drops (one small spray), of Vitamin B Vital to palm of hand & repeat the application to your skin.

Apply 3-4 drops of Micro 125 SunProtect Moisturiser to palm of hand & press over face / neck & massage gently into skin.

All products can be applied around eye area taking care not to go in to eye or edge of eyelids.

Routine: 

PM Routine: Again remember to shake each product before use

Cleanse skin with Gentle Cleansing Serum with 4-5 drops to damp palm of hand. Massage gently into face while in shower (or at basin) and remove with warm water & facecloth. On alternate evenings or at least 3 x week, apply 1 spray of AHA serum to palm of hands & press into skin, all over face / neck. Leave on - apply 3 drops (one small spray) of the Vitamin A serum and massage lightly in.

This may be suffice for the evening, however with the conditions being so harsh in the winter I would advise using 3 drops (one small spray) of the Olivane Serum Citrus Infusion in the evenings as the “piece de la resistance”.

Notes:  This may seem like a lot but it actually will only take you 2 minutes in the morning & evening and your skin will feel sensational. You have the luxury of increasing your skin treatment regime if you need it according to your day – for example

-      Apply Vitamin B Vital – one small spray to palm of hands and massage in over the Vitamin A Night Serum in the evening, as you need to, to increase the protection your skin needs to recover from a busy day. I would think over winter that you might need to do this 3 -4 times a week.

-      You can purchase the different size bottles of the products you will need more or less of – for example a 50 ml cleansing lotion, 15ml Vitamin C & Vitamin A serum, 30ml Vitamin B Vital, 15ml Olivane Serum -Citrus Infusion & AHA Exfoliating Serum, 30ml Micro 125 SunProtect Moisturiser

 Thank you again Katherine for your enquiry, we look forward to your response & if you would like us to discuss anything further.

ProBioSkin.com Skin Care Consultant

Response:                  Client [5]:

10.10.11 – Katherine – Canada

Thanks, this exactly what I am looking for, i.e. clear detail description of products with recommendations. After reading through your answers to them, I have listed my questions below to your suggestions. I look forward to hearing from you.

Question [f]:                  Client [5]:

10.10.11 – Katherine – Canada

Does the Cleansing lotion remove makeup (including waterproof mascara) or I need to remove makeup first before using this cleansing lotion?

Yes the Cleansing Lotion will remove make up effectively & gently. You will find it best to cleanse twice when wearing make up & be sure to massage the Cleanser with damp fingers into your skin each time to emulsify your make up with the cleanser & lift it beautifully out of your pores, leaving your skin fresh & relaxed. I like to use a damp cotton pad with a smallest amount of cleanser pressed in to it (i.e pump out a drop of cleanser & rub the damp pad onto itself then press/dab/stroke over the closed eyelid & lashes. Leave on while doing 1st cleanse then wash off with face cloth or fibrella to remove) , when removing mascara so as to minimise damaging lashes & delicate skin around the eyes.  We are posting a video demo on this shortly on our site.

Question[g]:                  Client [5]:

10.10.11 – Katherine – Canada

Do I still need to use Sun Block after moisturizer?

Answer [g]:                  Client [5]:

1