THE GLASS SKIN MACHINE EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT

…and we’ve got it!

You’ve heard of glass skin, but have you heard of Glacē? Candela’s newest skin-purification device blends into one integrated treatment:

• Hydrodermabrasion (exfoliation, extraction and infusion)

• Dual-mode cupping massage (for lymphatic drainage and instant contouring) and

• LED mask therapy (calms skin and boosts radiance). 

There’s also a built-in, two-phase serum delivery system that can be personalised tailored to address different skin concerns. 

Inspired by the glass skin trend, Glacē is the easy way to achieve ultra-smooth, luminous skin, where pores are minimised. The machine’s highly customisable settings (suction and abrasion levels, serum choice and flow according to skin type and condition) results in picture-perfect skin! 

Glacē is designed to work with every age and skin type, including darker skin tones, and the clinical results are strong, with 100% visibly cleaner skin, 97% improved hydration, and 92% of clients opting to return for further treatments.  

How it works

• Exfoliation and extraction — There are four abrasion levels ranging from fine to blunt which, in conjunction with Candela’s closed-vacuum hydrodermabrasion technology, gently exfoliates the skin, cleaning the pores and removing debris in ways traditional facial treatments can’t. 

• Phase A serum infusion — This is designed to extract residual impurities and cleanse the skin in preparation for…

• Phase B serum infusion — This targeted treatment is selected based on each patient’s skin concern (e.g. dryness, uneven skin tone, premature ageing), and selects just the right infusion settings for comfort and precision. 

• Dual-mode cupping massage — A pulsed vacuum supports lymphatic drainage, reduces puffiness, and detoxifies skin, while an alternative continuous setting offers  that makes you look beautifully sculpted.

• GlacēFinish — To complete the treatment, we apply a biocellulose mask infused with niacinamide and probiotics, and add various wavelengths of LED light therapy to calm skin, boost barrier recovery, offset sensitivity, and boost radiance. 

Is it effective? 

Yes! Results include: 

• A visibly cleaner and more refined skin surface.

• Smoother texture.

• Improved hydration, complete with that luminous glass skin finish.

Even better, because the device is so customisable, we are able to treat patients with all skin types, sensitivities and conditions. It’s gentle, non-invasive, and downtime is minimal. Glacē is therefore a fantastic treatment choice for regular skin maintenance, as well as rejuvenation for special occasions like weddings or Carnival, where you need that special glow! 

So much more than a laser treatment or peel, Glacē is the easy answer to hydration, detoxification, and improved texture, all with a light touch that performs to perfection.

Ready to try it? Call us at 628-9233 to make an appointment. 

CHALLENGES TO HEALTHY SKIN?

Let’s talk about it!

November is celebrated in several parts of the world as Healthy Skin Month. It’s a great opportunity to take a closer look at our skincare routines and give our largest organ the attention it deserves. 

In the Caribbean, high levels of glare and sun exposure increase the risk of sun damage, premature ageing, and skin cancers, even in darker skin tones that naturally contain more melanin. Humidity can lead to acne, fungal infections, and heat rash, while air-conditioned offices and frequent showering can strip the skin of its natural moisture.

Regional skin health is also tied to diet, with high sugar and oil intake triggering inflammation and leading to dullness or breakouts. Stress and sleep quality can also be skin saboteurs — so how do we keep our skin thriving? We’ll look at five common Caribbean skin concerns and tangible solutions to keep your skin glowing…

Challenge #1: Sun damage

Uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancers are a top concern for many of us — and these conditions are often linked to sun exposure, whether you’re naturally blessed with melanin or not. You’d be surprised at how many people are unaware of the importance of regularly using sunscreen, so let’s be clear: 

• There is zero scientific evidence of sunscreen ingredients causing skin cancer, as we have seen certain social media reels claim. 

• There is scientific proof that unprotected sun exposure increases skin cancer risk.

What to do

Protect your skin by:

• Applying a broad spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to any exposed skin, even if it’s cloudy and even if you’re indoors, as UV rays can also be harmful through windows and emitted from computer screens, phones, televisions, tablets, etc.  

• Opt for the shade whenever possible, and always have a hat handy. 

• Wear sun-protective clothing.

• Avoid being in the sun especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are often at their most intense.

• Get to know your skin’s patterns — if you notice new moles, rashes, or spots that change shape or colour, please come in and see us. Early detection saves lives! 

Challenge #2: Acne

Of course there are different types of acne, and treatment often depends on a variety of factors, but generally speaking, sweat, clogged pores, and heavy products contribute to breakouts. Many people respond to this by over-cleansing their skin, which can lead to further irritation.

What to do 

Stick to a simple and gentle routine: 

• Our four-step plan? Cleanse, treat, moisturise, and protect.

• Choose trusted products that have been through proper clinical testing and use safe ingredients that have been proven effective — non-comedogenic products are best.

Challenge #3: Eczema 

In tropical climates like ours, eczema and heat rashes are very common, with the humidity triggering flare-ups — especially in children and people with sensitive skin.

What to do 

Hydrate:

• Giving skin much-needed moisture via the products we use, combined with drinking enough water and supplementing it with water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon, goes a long way. 

• Opt for a gentle moisturiser that locks in hydration without clogging pores. 

• Lighter gels, creams or lotions tend to work better in humid conditions; make sure they are fragrance-free. 

Challenge #4: Fungal infections  

Sad but true: conditions like athlete’s foot and ringworm thrive in moisture-rich environments, which tropical climates have in droves! 

What to do 

These types of conditions thrive on inflammation; to combat them, you can:

• Support your skin with foods rich in vitamin C, omega-3s, and antioxidants, while limiting processed and fried foods 

• Stay dry — fungi love moisture, so avoid damp or sweaty areas on your body and between your toes. Let your skin breathe!  

• While over-the-counter anti-fungals may be sufficient, make an appointment with your dermatologist if there is no relief; you may need something stronger.

• Fungi can linger on clothes, in shoes, and on towels, so ensure these are clean at all times and do not share.

Challenge #5: Misinformation  

Bet you didn’t see this coming, but it’s one of the greatest obstacles to healthy skin. Harmful advice, even delivered with the best intentions, can take a serious toll on your skin, hair, nails — and, let’s face it — your self-esteem. 

What to do 

Be discerning: 

• In the age of the influencer, which absolutely comes with its pros and cons, the trustworthiness of the person giving the advice is usually more reliant on their qualifications and the experiences of their patients than the number of followers they have. 

• Do your research. If the advice comes from a medical board-certified dermatologist, that’s a good start

• Always trust your gut. Just because everyone is trying the latest skincare trend doesn’t mean it’s for you. 

Remember, if you have any questions or want to learn more about how to keep your skin healthy for life, we’re a phone call away! 

SEVEN SCARY SKINCARE HABITS

Things that make you go “Hmmmm…”

This spooky season, it’s not ghosts or goblins that put your skin at risk — it’s everyday habits that may be haunting your complexion. Here are seven of the most common skincare slip-ups to avoid, and why they’re truly frightening for your skin.

1. Skipping sunscreen

Up to 80% of UV rays still reach your skin when it’s cloudy — or when you’re inside, as UVA rays still find their way through windows. Daily sunscreen use is your best defense against skin cancer, sun damage, and premature ageing.

2. Sleeping in your makeup

Leftover makeup traps dirt and oil, clogs pores, and prevents your skin from repairing itself overnight. Over time, it can accelerate ageing and cause breakouts. Neglecting to clean your makeup tools is also pretty terrifying, as they can harbour bacteria, oil, and product residue, causing clogged pores, acne, and even infections.

3. Overdoing exfoliation

Too much scrubbing (physical or chemical) weakens your skin barrier, leading to redness, irritation, and more frequent breakouts. Your skin needs gentleness and balance, not a daily assault.

4. Only getting your skincare advice from social media

Popular channels’ DIY hacks and home remedies may trend from time to time, but if the advice being given is not scientifically supported, the methods they recommend have the potential to burn, scar, or permanently damage skin.

5. Popping and picking 

Squeezing zits pushes bacteria deeper, prolongs healing, and often leaves behind dark spots or scars. A blemish can vanish in days, but the scars from picking can linger for a long time — not to mention, popping pimples in the so-called “triangle of death” is a very, very bad idea. 

6. Ignoring your neck and hands

These areas get just as much sun as your face, but are often left unprotected. Neglecting them can lead to wrinkles, sunspots, and sagging that give away your age faster than your face does.

7. Skipping the moisturiser 

People with oily skin often forego moisturiser — but stripping the skin of hydration can actually trigger more oil production. Balanced hydration keeps the skin barrier strong and reduces breakouts.

The chilling thing about these habits is how common they are — but a little prevention can keep your skin glowing and healthy, long after spooky season has ended.

SHOULD YOU BE PANICKING OVER GEL NAIL POLISH?

We cut through the noise and explain what’s what 

As most people know by now, on September 1, 2025 the European Union banned the sale and use of gel nail polishes containing trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), which it classified as “carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction”. Take note: not all gel polishes are banned, just those containing TPO — and the move has forced manufacturers to reformulate their products without this contentious ingredient, which is a good thing.

It’s also important to state that the EU ban is precautionary and solely based on the results of animal studies, which showed reproductive toxicity in high-dose exposures. The United States has not yet followed suit with prohibiting the use of TPO. 

What is TPO, exactly? 

TPO is a photoinitiator — a chemical that helps gel polish harden when exposed to UV or LED light. It has been a revolutionary advancement in the beauty salon world because of its durability, making the nail polish more glossy, chip-resistant, and longer-lasting. Every woman’s dream, right? But every up side has its down side.  

What you should be concerned about 

1. UV/light exposure

Gel manicures require curing under UV or LED lamps, which emit UVA rays (the longer-wave ultraviolet light). UVA contributes to skin ageing, and may also increase skin cancer risk. While the exposure received via these light sources is lower than say, a tanning bed — and while LEDs are considered a safer alternative to UV — repeated sessions can have a cumulative effect.  

2. Chemical and allergy hazards

In addition to the improper application or removal of gels having the potential to weaken, peel, or crack the natural nail plate (the hard part of your nail), acrylates and methacrylates — compounds known for causing contact dermatitis or allergic sensitisation— are often found in gel formulas. Acrylate allergies can actually result in an inability to use certain medical adhesives or joint-related materials later in life, limiting the possibility of having certain key medical procedures. TPO itself commonly causes localised skin irritations.

3. Mechanical and removal damage

The method of applying and removing gel polish can be as harmful as the polish itself. Nail technicians commonly buff or file the nail surface before applying the gel, thinning the nail plate in the process. In order to remove the gel, nails must be chemically softened, usually by soaking them in acetone — but peeling or forcibly lifting the polish can cause chips, fissures, and weakening of the nail. Over time, this can lead to thin, brittle, unhealthy nails. 

Naturally, nail technicians are potentially at a higher risk for adverse health effects over time, thanks to repeated exposure to chemicals, dust, vapours, etc.   

Explore the alternatives 

The EU’s ban could be a sign to reevaluate your nail care habits. There are many beautiful alternatives to nail gels. Though less long-lasting, regular nail polish is easier to remove, and has fewer harsh chemicals, which is a decent trade-off. 

Gel-effect or “no-light” polishes mimic the glossy finish of gels without needing a curing lamp. Though not completely risk-free, dip powder nails are achieved via a powder and cure system that omits use of certain photoinitiators. Press-on nails are great for temporary wear, and builder-in-a-bottle gel overlays can achieve the hard gel effect, with more low-risk ingredients compared to full gel colour systems.  

How to be safer

1. Protect yourself 

An easy first step is to limit the frequency with which you get nail treatments, or reconsider the type of treatment you have. If you insist on gels, be sure to apply a broad-spectrum SPF (≥ 30) to your hands and/or use UV-protective fingerless gloves to act as a shield during the curing process. 

2. Check your ingredients 

Become a label reader and do your research — choose gels that are TPO-free, or use alternative photoinitiators.

3. Avoid aggressive prepping/removal  

Tell your manicurist to skip the heavy buffing before applying the gel. For removal, we strongly advise against forcing off the polish. If tools must be used, make sure they are made of plastic or wood rather than metal. 

4. Pamper yourself 

Moisturise and nourish your nails by using replenishing cuticle oils and hydrating hand creams. You can also consider applying just a nourishing, protein-rich base between polishes.  

5. Be observant
If you notice any type of adverse effects, including redness, itching, or nail thinning, call your dermatologist — it’s likely a case of allergic sensitisation.

As dermatologists, we are swayed only by science and therefore encourage prudence and informed consumer choices — so if you continue to use gel nails, please take our recommended safety precautions seriously. 

MOISTURISER MYTHS

How to pick the right product for your skin

The perfect moisturiser isn’t found in the fanciest jar or trendiest ingredient. It’s all about protecting and strengthening your unique skin barrier — which means what works for someone else may not necessarily work for you. 

What’s the barrier about? 

As the outermost layer of your skin, the barrier is made up of lipids, proteins, and skin cells that form a protective shield, keeping in moisture while blocking environmental irritants from getting in.

Whenever the barrier is compromised — from harsh cleansers, too much sun, or over-exfoliation — your skin can become dry, sensitive, and more prone to difficult conditions like eczema or acne.

Enter moisturisers

The right moisturiser can help restore and maintain this protective shield — but first, let’s deconstruct a few of the most common myths when it comes to moisturising your skin. 

Myth 1: Oily skin doesn’t need moisturiser

Even oily or acne-prone skin can be dehydrated — and if it is, skipping the moisturiser may cause the skin to produce even more oil to compensate. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that won’t clog pores.

Myth 2: The thicker the product, the better the hydration

While heavier balms might be great for very dry skin, they can overwhelm combination or oily skin. Texture isn’t the only indicator of effectiveness — the ingredient list matters more, so make sure you check it! 

Myth 3: Expensive always means better

While many scientifically supported skin care results are linked with more expensive products, price isn’t always a reflection of effectiveness. Many dermatologist-recommended moisturisers are affordable and packed with clinically proven ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. Just like your wardrobe, a good skincare routine should ideally include a mix of high-end performers and reliable basics.  

What to look for

• For Dry Skin — Rich, creamy products with ceramides and fatty acids

• For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin — Lightweight gels or lotions with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide

• For Sensitive Skin — Fragrance-free formulas with soothing ingredients

• For Ageing Skin — Products with peptides or antioxidants to support collagen and barrier repair

Pro Tip — Always pair moisturiser with daily sunscreen for complete barrier protection.

“This month, when you book a Perfect Derma Peel, you’ll receive 15% OFF sunblock or moisturiser — the perfect duo for barrier protection and post-peel care.”

— Serpentine Dermatology September Specials