Look like an angel

So the other day I happened to catch an interview with Lil of Seraphim Skincare on our local news morning variety show. What I saw -- a simple routine for better skin, focusing on retin-A products applied with an easy-peasy 2-step technique. Lil's no-BS manner and warm personality (and great skin!) drew me to check out the website, where I took a look at the amazing before and after pics. Her skin really does look younger, with nary a freckle in sight. When I punched up the product listing, I saw the terms "peel and bleach" -- which would normally have me running away like a bandit. But based on what I saw on the TV how-to, the peeling is nothing more than a good exfoliation. And let's face it: like most women, I use SPF but not consistently, and could use a little turn-back-the-clockage on a few sunspots. If you're scared of retin-A, you may want to take a second look and see what the technique can do for you.

Terrible Trend: Beauty Before Health

Need to get an appointment to see your dermatologist? Tell him you want to find out about Botox. According to the New York Times, dermatologists see patients who want cosmetic procedures--ones not paid for by insurance--far faster than they see patients who need, say, psoriasis or a suspicious mole checked out. Some docs even have separate waiting rooms for cosmetic patients vs. medical patients. Personally, I think this is ridiculous--but given my recent run-in with my dermatologist, it doesn't surprise me.

Spa Swindled

Spa dermatology is on the rise, and while I generally think it's a great concept, I found out the hard way this week that it can have its drawbacks. I went in to a new dermatologist, who practices in a med-spa-like facility, to see what I could do about a pesky rash I have on my arms. He suggested a glycolic peel. I assumed that it--like my visit that day--was covered by insurance, and the dermatologist never mentioned otherwise, so I agreed. Well, when I went to pay my co-pay after the visit, I was informed that I owed several hundred dollars for the glycolic peel!! Needless to say, I was furious--if not illegal, it seems extremely unethical to not disclose fees up front. I won't be going back to that dermatologist again ... lesson learned.