Although it may seem obvious, an antioxidant is a chemical that prevents other chemicals from becoming "oxidized" and undergoing a chemical change. In the body, highly reactive substances called free radicals are constantly being produced. Free radicals can readily damage the body's own cells. In living tissues, antioxidants remove free radicals before they can damage normal tissues.

Although more research needs to be done, free radicals damage healthy cells by injuring DNA, proteins, and other structures within the cells. It is believed that this speeds up the aging process, weakens the immune system, and may contribute to the development of cataracts, heart disease, and various forms of cancer. For these reasons, it is important that everyone consume enough antioxidants. The best sources of dietary antioxidants, such as vitamins A and C, are vegetables and fruits. Carrots, broccoli, tomatoes, peaches, green peppers, strawberries, citrus fruits, and tomatoes are excellent sources of dietary antioxidants. In addition, wheat germ, nuts, and whole grains are good sources of Vitamin E, which is also an antioxidant.

From the dermatology perspective, exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun will result in the production of free radicals. Several studies have suggested that antioxidants help protect the skin from the damaging effects of the free radicals that result from sun exposure. For this reason, Dr. Amerian recommends that her patients use a topical antioxidant preparation as part of their daily skin-care program.

Prevage MD is an anti-aging treatment that contains the antioxidant idebenone. Idebenone has been scientifically shown to be one of the most powerful antioxidants available in a skin care product today. Antioxidants are commonly used in skin care products because they eliminate free radicals. Free radicals are produced by many different environmental stressors and cause extensive damage to skin cells, resulting in premature aging of the skin. Because antioxidants eliminate free radicals, they are able to counteract this effect and protect the skin from free radical damage.

Skin ages not only with the passage of time, but also from exposure to the environment. Sun exposure, ozone, air pollution, and cigarette smoke all contribute to premature aging of the skin. Regardless of the cause of aging skin, Prevage MD helps correct the skin damage that has already occurred and also protects the skin from future damage.

In research studies, patients using Prevage MD improved the appearance of their fine lines and wrinkles, improved their skin texture, and obtained a more even skin tone. These three effects together helped to restore a more youthful appearing skin. After six weeks of Prevage MD, 21 subjects reported a 29% reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, 26% reduction in skin roughness and dryness, 37% increase in skin hydration, and a 33% improvement in the skin's overall appearance. Studies of the effectiveness of Prevage MD have consistently shown improvement in the skin's smoothness, tightness, texture, and overall appearance.

Several patients have asked us what the differences are between Prevage MD Anti-aging Treatment and Prevage. Prevage MD Anti-aging Treatment contains 1% idebenone whereas Prevage contains only ½% idebenone. Because of its stronger formulation, Prevage MD is only available in physician offices.

At the Santa Monica Laser and Skin Care Center, we take pride in creating skin care regimens customized to the needs of every unique patient. Any of our patients who think they would benefit from Prevage MD or who simply wish to optimize their skin care program are invited to call the office and make an appointment with Dr. Amerian. In addition, while supplies last, we will give away a free package of Prevage MD to our Botox and Juvederm patients during April.