We expect a lot from our skin. We want it to remain blemish- and breakout-free while consistently exposing it to potentially harmful and aging forces like the sun and other environmental elements. Unfortunately, that can mean more fine lines, dark spots and other issues. With spring just around the corner, you can give yourself a revitalizing refresh thanks to a thoughtfully designed skin care regimen, according to Jackie Carr, R.N., ANP-BC, LE, owner of Pur-One Medispa in Des Peres.

For people looking to capture a youthful glow for spring, Carr recommends Skinvive by Allergan Aesthetics. “It’s an injectable filler that is designed to improve skin quality and hydration in the cheeks,” she explains. “While the product is not new to the market, many people don’t understand exactly what it achieves. The microinjection helps the skin retain moisture, combating volume loss that occurs with age. The result is a nice glow.” While results can be seen quickly with Skinvive, Carr notes that it is important to wait at least two weeks to see how the skin heals. Potential side effects include temporary swelling and bruising.

To prepare for warmer weather, Carr suggests taking advantage of the last weeks of winter to get more invasive treatments, such as microneedling. Since the procedure makes the skin more vulnerable, it can increase risk of damage from sun exposure. Skinvive can similarly increase photosensitivity, making exposure to sun a concern a few weeks after treatment. Carr stresses the importance of scheduling your appointments around a month before special engagements like spring trips or weddings. “You should take at least two to three weeks to heal, and after that, you’ll need to use sun protection diligently,” she says. “I recommend using a zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sunscreen every day—even when it’s cloudy.”

Pur-One Medispa is truly a family business. Carr works alongside her daughter, Courtney Carr. Along with being a licensed esthetician, Courtney is a master brow artist. The designation means a permanent makeup artist has provided services for more than three years. Courtney has been performing microblading for more than six years. The technique involves using semi-permanent tattooing to give the brows a fuller appearance. It also can be used to achieve a more youthful look. “Eyebrow grooming is important for clients striving to soften the appearance of aging,” she notes. “A very soft, subtle lift to the tail of the brow can even give an illusion of a more lifted and open eye.”

Like with other treatments offered at Pur-One Medispa, Courtney recommends planning microblading appointments a month ahead of major events, such as trips. If you already regularly receive treatments, she cautions against waiting until after going on spring break and spending an extended amount of time in the sun. “If your skin has been burnt before a procedure, it can increase sensitivity,” she says. “With many treatments, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun afterward because they can cause photosensitivity, increasing the potential for skin damage. Now is the perfect time to think ahead and schedule your appointments.”

Pur-One Medispa offers a variety of effective skin treatments in a safe, pleasant environment. Pictured on the cover: Microblading artist and licensed esthetician Courtney Carr and owner Jackie Carr.For more information, call 314.909.0633, visit puronemedispa.com or search @courtneyycarr_aesthetics on Instagram.

Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo courtesy of Pur-One Medispa

Pictured at top: Before and after microblading by Courtney Carr.
Photo courtesy of Pur-One Medispa