Author Archives: Daniel Zimmerman

Understanding And Soothing Keratosis Pilaris

Thank you for visiting Dermalure, where skin is our priority and our speciality. We believe that skin should be treated with utmost care. Our products are designed to be able to work with all skin types and have varying degrees of concentration that allow you to choose the perfect solution for you. We always have your health and radiance in mind, and it is our goal to provide you with #1 products that won’t break the bank. Our Los Angeles skin specialists create each of our peels to order and are happy to speak with you about your options at any point. Many of our customers with skin conditions such as Keratosis Pilaris find our products extremely helpful, as we have products that can successfully treat conditions such as this one!

Understanding Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis Pilaris is a harmless skin condition that causes patches of small bumps to arise on the skin. These patches may feel rough to the touch, but they shouldn’t hurt or itch. They commonly appear on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks, and similar areas of the body. They are light-colored and most commonly appear on children and teens. You shouldn’t worry if you experience this condition, as it usually disappears by the age of 30.

Cause

Keratosis pilaris appears due to a buildup of keratin. Keratin is a protein that protects skin from infections and keeps epithelial cells safe from damage or stress. It is a very important material that makes up the outer layer of your skin, and it should be comforting to know that these buildups are common. They form a plug on your skin, blocking the opening of a hair follicle.

Kertosis pilaris is more likely to appear on people with dry skin, or on the drier areas of normal skin. This condition can be worse in the winter months, since there is less moisture in the air during this time. It is normal for these bumps to arise, clear up, and come back at different points of the year.

Your doctor can diagnose keratosis pilaris by looking at your skin. If you have sensitive skin or other skin conditions such as eczema, it is more likely that you will experience keratosis pilaris at some point. It’s nothing to be afraid of, and here at Dermalure, we have the perfect products to help soothe your skin and help your skin look and feel better.

The Perfect Soothing Mechanism

Here at Dermalure, your skin is our specialty. Our products are designed to work with a variety of skin types and common skin conditions, so we can assure that you will be able to find the perfect solution to your specific skin concern. If you are experiencing keratosis pilaris, your skin most likely needs more moisture. Our salicylic acid products are great for people with this skin condition, as salicylic acid increases the amount of moisture in the skin as well as dissolves the substance that caused the skin cells to stick together in the first place. Because of this, these products make it easier to shed the unwanted skin cells that have caused the bumps. Our salicylic acid peels are deep strength peels that work with stubborn skin problems such as this one, as well as acne, and clarity and skin tone issues. We have lighter-strength salicylic acid peels that are better for those with sensitive skin, and they also work well to help these skin issues. These peels will penetrate and clear pores that have become clogged and make way for healthier skin cells.

If you want to use our stronger products, we recommend that you consult with your dermatologist or esthetician before use.

Contact Your Los Angeles Skin Experts Today

Here at Dermalure, we have created top-tier products to give your skin exactly what it needs. All of the products we have to offer are paraben-free, and our exceptional customer service center is always here to help you figure out exactly what you need. We are built on family values and always embody honesty and trust. With continued, conscientious, and correct use of our products, we guarantee that your skin will begin to look younger, smoother and healthier. This is our specialty! If you are ready to soothe and clear up your keratosis pilaris bumps, give us a call today. You may reach us by phone at (877) 336-4652 or send us a message via our website. We look forward to helping you transform your skin and start the year off with a bang!

Benefits of Dark Chocolate for Your Skin

Cocoa Powder on spoon and Dark Chocolate background.

Of all the many food products made from cocoa beans, chocolate ranks right up there as one of the most favorite treats enjoyed the world over. And everyone knows that chocolate is the gift to give for Valentine’s Day as the sweet treat symbolizes love and affection. Dark chocolate tastes somewhat bitter, making it less popular than milk chocolate. However, when it comes to health, the dark variety is preferable over the lighter types that contain lots of sugar and other additives. Below are a few ways dark chocolate benefits the skin.

Reduces Inflammation

Once eaten, “good” microbes in the gut ferment the chocolate into anti-inflammatory compounds that are absorbed into the body, lessening inflammation throughout the body, including the skin.

Protects Against Harmful UV Rays

The European Journal of Nutrition found that consistently eating dark chocolate for 12 weeks significantly reduces moisture loss in the skin, resulting in fewer sunburns. This is because the high cocoa levels in dark chocolate boost blood circulation to the skin capillaries, helping them draw in more oxygen and nutrients to protect the skin against the harmful effects of UV rays.

Promotes New Skin Cell Growth

Dark chocolate contains important minerals like iron, zinc and copper which promote skin cell growth. Regularly eating small amounts of dark chocolate can help with common skin conditions like eczema and acne.

Protects the Skin Against Damaging Free Radicals

The antioxidants present in dark chocolate protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals to keep the skin soft and supple. Just eating one ounce of dark chocolate every day that contains at least 70% cocoa can keep the skin smooth, hydrated and free of blemishes and breakouts.

If you plan on incorporating dark chocolate into your daily diet to help you achieve clearer, softer and healthier skin, be sure to choose high quality dark chocolate with 70% or higher cocoa content and to only eat 1 to 2 ounces a day.

Understanding And Relieving Psoriasis

Psoriasis

Here at Dermalure, there is nothing we understand better than skin and the ways in which you can improve or transform it. You deserve to have glowing, youthful, and smooth skin that you are proud of! If you’ve been experiencing issues with your skin such as psoriasis, acne, wrinkles, sunspots, or other related conditions, look no longer; our products may be exactly the help you’ve been looking for. Our pH levels are guaranteed to be low and our products have varying degrees of concentration so you have find the perfect solution for your skin. Our at-home peels and solutions are designed to help fortify and soothe even the toughest skin, so even if you are experiencing stubborn conditions such as psoriasis, we are here to help.

What Is Psoriasis?

Have you noticed red, raised, scaly patches of skin? Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes these types of symptoms commonly around the outside of the elbows, knees or scalp. These areas may itch, burn or even sting. Let your doctor know if you are experiencing anything like this, but don’t be alarmed, this disease is extremely common and well understood by doctors and specialists like us.

Why Does Psoriasis Show Up?

Psoriasis can appear randomly, but we know that genetics and the immune system play major roles in its’ development. The skin cells of people with this disease grow at an abnormally quick rate, which is the cause of the buildup of these visible lesions. Though it can appear at any age, psoriasis most commonly develops between the ages of 15 and 35. This is not contagious and won’t be transmitted from one person to the next through contact of any kind.

Here at Dermalure, We Can Help

Our specialists have created the perfect products for skin conditions ranging from psoriasis to wrinkles, aging, sun spots, and acne. Our products vary in strength and composition so we can assure that you will be able to find something that suits you. If you are experiencing psoriasis, your skin most likely needs moisture and therapy. We are here to offer precisely this. We recommend our salicylic acid peels and solutions for many of our clients with psoriasis, as it soothingly increases the amount of moisture in the skin while simultaneously dissolving the substance that causes skin cells to clump and become inflamed. We have light salicylic acid acid peels for new users and people with more sensitive skin, which help clear clogged pores and regenerate healthy skin in a non-irritating way. Our stronger peels are able to penetrate more stubborn skin, so if your skin is tough and more damaged, these may be ideal for you.

Contact Your Dermalure Skin Specialists Today

Speak with your dermatologist or esthetician if you think you may have psoriasis and are looking for ways to help your skin. Our products are made for people who experience skin conditions such as yours. Our products are of the highest quality and are all paraben-free, with your skin in mind. Our peels and solutions are bound to leave their users with healthier, happier skin. If you have any questions or are ready to embark on your skin-improvement journey, please feel free to send us a message or call us at (877)336-4562 today. We look forward to helping you achieve your dream skin!

Benefits of Vitamin D

Benefits of Vitamin D – Especially In Winter

During the winter months, the lack of sun exposure causes our Vitamin D levels to significantly drop. This is because Vitamin D or the “sunshine vitamin” as it’s often called, is produced in the skin in response to sunlight. In addition to sun exposure, we can also get Vitamin D through certain foods and supplements to ensure we have adequate levels in the blood to maintain good health.

If you feel tired, worn out and achy much of the time during the winter months, you may be lacking in Vitamin D and not even know it. Below are a few positive effects Vitamin D provide to your overall health and well-being.

Vitamin D Reduces the Risk of Cancer

Numerous studies have shown that people who improve their vitamin D status enjoy a lower risk for the development of a whole host of deadly cancers by 30 to 40 percent including colorectal, breast and prostate cancer. This is because Vitamin D plays a crucial role in helping maintain cell growth when a cancer cell is developing in the body.

Strengthens the Bones

One of the key roles Vitamin D plays is that it helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus from the foods we eat, which are crucial minerals for good bone health. Just like exercise, getting enough Vitamin D is a strategy that can make the bones stronger at any age.

Protects Against Autoimmune Disease

Vitamin D is a very potent immune modulator that helps prevent autoimmune diseases like MS and inflammatory bowel disease.

Helps Protect Against the Flu

Vitamin D has been proven to fight all types of infections including influenza. It has been found that taking 1,200 units of Vitamin D during the winter time can reduce one’s risk for getting influenza by about 40 percent.

Promotes Good Skin Health

As a natural immune-booster, Vitamin D is essential to good skin health. Having sufficient Vitamin D in the body can help minimize skin conditions including eczema & acne, boost collagen production, promote elasticity, and help lessen fine lines and dark spots on the skin.

If you suspect you’re lacking in Vitamin D during the winter months due to being indoors most of the time or a poor diet, speak to your doctor. Your Vitamin D levels can easily be checked via a simple blood test. If you are deficient, your doctor can recommend dietary changes or provide you with Vitamin D supplements.

Seborrheic Keratosis

Identifying the Symptoms & How To Treat This Skin Condition

At Dermalure, we proudly provide a wide variety of highly-effective skincare products related to keratolytic therapy, known as the treatment of warts and other skin growths. These treatments are proven to work on a number of different conditions, one of these being seborrheic keratosis.

 What Is Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis is a common, noncancerous skin growth that can frequently appear on older adults. Seborrheic keratosis usually starts out as a small, rough area and can end up looking like warts, moles, or even skin cancer. Despite its similarity to melanoma, it’s not actually cancerous and won’t cause any detrimental effects that aren’t cosmetic.

Symptoms of Seborrheic Keratosis

Some of the symptoms of seborrheic keratosis include the following:

  • Seborrheic keratosis can range in size from a small fraction of an inch to over an inch.
  • They’re usually round or oval shaped.
  • They’re flat or slightly elevated and have a scaly surface.
  • It varies in color from white to black, though most are tan or brown.
  • They can be found anywhere on the body, but they most commonly appear on the chest, shoulders, and back.

Who Is at Risk?

Typically, the people who are at risk for seborrheic keratosis fall into one of these groups:

  • They are older or at least middle-aged. The likelihood of getting seborrheic keratosis increases as a person ages.
  • There is a history of seborrheic keratosis in the family.
  • They spend a lot of time out in the sun and leave their skin exposed.

When Should You See a Doctor?

It’s best to see a doctor if:

  • A growth bleeds or is irritated from when your clothing rubs against them.
  • The growth is an unnatural color such as purple or blue.
  • Many growths develop over a short period of time.
  • There’s only one growth (this condition usually causes several growths).
  • An existing growth changes in appearance.

Contact Dermalure Today!

While seborrheic keratosis is mainly a cosmetic issue and doesn’t pose any real dangers, removing this skin growth is still a viable and often preferred option. At Dermalure, we provide keratolytic therapy, such as glycolic acid, in order to treat this condition. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us online or at (877) 336-4652. We hope to hear from you soon!

Actinic Keratosis

Using Chemical Peels To Treat This Skin Condition

At Dermalure, we offer the most advanced and high-quality products related to skin care and repair. Our keratolytic therapy products can work on any and all cosmetic defects or skin growths that you may happen to have. One such example of a skin condition that our therapy is highly effective on is actinic keratosis.

What Is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a rough, scaly, and crusty lesion (growth) that’s caused by years of damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. It’s most commonly found on the areas of the skin that are often exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, and forearms. Although the vast majority of these cases are benign, up to ten percent can actually develop into squamous cell carcinoma if they remain untreated.

Symptoms of Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratosis is generally noted by the following traits:

  • Rough, dry patches of skin
  • Flat or slightly raised patches or bumps
  • Small size (usually less than an inch in diameter)
  • Red color (though sometimes tan or pink)
  • Occasional itching or burning

Who’s at Risk for Actinic Keratosis?

While anyone can develop skin cancer, you’re more likely to develop actinic keratosis if you:

  • Are over 40 years old.
  • Have blond or red hair.
  • Have a lighter complexion.
  • Are frequently exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
  • Live closer to the equator.
  • Have a personal or family history of actinic keratosis.
  • Have a weakened immune system.

Treatment for Actinic Keratosis

Even though actinic keratosis sometimes goes away on its own, it can often return after more sun exposure. Since it’s impossible to tell which ones will develop into skin cancer, it’s best to be precautionary and treat the condition as soon as possible. Some treatments include the following:

  • Medication gels and creams
  • Cryotherapy (freezing)
  • Curettage (scraping off the damaged cells)
  • Photodynamic therapy (using light to destroy the cells)

Contact Dermalure Today!

At Dermalure, we’re glad to provide keratolytic therapy products, such as glycolic acid, in order to treat actinic keratosis. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us online or at (877) 336-4652. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How Chemical Peels Work

The Science Behind Acquiring Your Youthful Look

You’ve got acne, blackheads, oily skin, scars from acne, sun or age spots, discoloration or a multitude of other skin ailments that just don’t make you look your best. Both men and women of all ages who face such beauty challenges have turned to chemical peels to eliminate these unsightly nuisances and enhance their features. Chemical peels are common treatments at any dermatologist office, skincare boutique, or  beauty spa. Now you can even purchase and apply your own chemical peels at home.

Although the word “chemical” might sound scary, nothing is actually “peeled off.” The process involves washing your face, neck and/or hands with a chemical solution that causes it to dissolve the upper layers of skin, leaving a new layer of skin below. This new layer is brighter, softer, smoother, and less wrinkled that the old skin. A chemical solution is applied to the skin and works by dissolving the upper layers of the skin.

But what, exactly do these chemicals do and how do they work? The truth is there are dozens of different types of chemical peels, all containing different ingredients or varieties of ingredients. And, they can be applied in dozens of different strengths, giving each individual a chance to use just the write concentration of just the right chemicals for their certain situation.

Types of Chemical Peels

Generally, there are three types of chemical peels available today:

  • Superficial or Light Peel

These mild acid peels are the most gentle and only penetrate and remove the top layer of your skin, called the epidermis. These chemical peels can give your skin an instantly brighter look and improve the appearance of rough skin and mild discolorations. They are also used to moisturize and to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles or scarring from acne. The acids used are usually of the alpha hydroxy (AHA) or beta hydroxy (BHA) types and they can often include natural enzymes from fruits. Superficial peels can boost your skin’s nutrients to produce abundant and healthy new cells. These types of peels are usually pain-free with only a mild irritation or redness experienced which can be soothed with a moisturizing cream. There is no recovery time. Usually six to ten treatments are recommended for best results.

  • Medium Peel

With a medium peel usually made from TCA (trichloroacetic acid), you’ll find both your outer and middle layers of skin removed to exfoliate all damaged skin cells. These treatments are used to penetrate deeper in order to eliminate sun damage, wrinkles, and discolored skin. After treatment, you may feel a burning sensation for up to an hour after treatment. The medium peels may require some recovery time as your face might be puffy, pink and itchy for a few days up to a week after the treatment.

  • Deep Peel

Deep peels are the strongest types of chemical peel and can achieve the most noticeable results. A stronger concentration of TCA or phenol is used  that deeply penetrates the middle layer (dermis) of skin to remove damaged skin cells. These peels are able to remove moderate lines, sun damage, scarring, wrinkles, age spots, and freckles. Because of its strength, it can only be used one time on your face. As you might guess, the deep peel involves quite a bit more pain (you may even be sedated) and can it can take months to fully recover. Your entire face will be swollen for a few days and then scan, leaving itching, peeling skin. There is a danger in getting patches of bleached-looking skin and scarring. This type of peel should only be performed by an experienced dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

How A Chemical Peel Works

Before you decide on a chemical peel, contact a skin care expert about what results you are looking for and which type and strength of peel would be best to achieve those results. In general, the process of a chemical peel treatment, whether at home or in an office is:

  • Cleansing. Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed before your chemical peel treatment. For deep peels, a local anesthetic is usually used to numb your face. You may be sedated and will likely be put on a heart monitor.
  • Application. The selected peeling solution will be applied for a designated amount of time. You should only feel either nothing or a small tingling with a light peel and perhaps a bit more discomfort with a medium peel. Sometimes a fan is used to cool your face.
  • Removal. After the appropriate amount of time, the peel will be neutralized and removed. For light peels, this process can take as little as 10  minutes. For heavy peels, the peel is applied to your face one side at a time for about 30 minutes.

Chemical peels can seem confusing, but they all really work in the same manner. The different ingredients, types of acids, and additives used in each types of chemical peel combine to remedy problems a host of skin care challenges. The popularity of the treatment is growing as men and women fight to look their youthful best. For more information on the chemical peel types and treatments, check out Dermalure’s line of skin care products.

Winter Chemical Peel Gifts

What You Should Know About Giving Chemical Peels as Gifts for Christmas

Whether you are looking for the perfect gift for a loved one or for yourself this holiday season, our team here at Dermalure has something for you that will make heads turn. Our at-home Chemical Peels are great gift options if you are looking for something that has the potential to really improve the quality of someone’s life. Our peels deeply exfoliate skin and beautifully lift away the dry, damaged top layers on your face to reveal the younger and healthier skin underneath. We have a number of different types of peels for you to choose from. We are more than happy to help you figure out which of our products is best for the skin type and/or skin conditions the recipient is experiencing!

Why Is A Chemical Peel A Great Choice?

As described with an earlier blog about skin care in cold temperatures, due to the coming winter, many climates are experiencing colder and drier weather conditions. Hot air is more capable of holding water than cold air is, so as temperatures drop this winter, the humidity that helps to naturally moisturize our skin is decreasing as well. This change in weather may leave skin feeling and looking dry, flaky, or damaged. This is one reason why wintertime is a great time to acquire chemical peels! Rejuvenate the skin of yourself or a loved one to reveal the beautiful, healthy and young skin that lies beneath the troublesome outer layers. These peels can be used conveniently at home and if used correctly, can really transform a face.

At-Home Chemical Peel Options

The following is a list of some, but not all of the chemical peel options we have to offer:

  • AHA/BHA Acne Peels: These are the mildest forms of chemical peel formulas and produce light peels. They can be used for exfoliation, and can clear breakouts, minimize fine lines, and brighten complexion.
  • Glycolic Acid Peels: This type of peel has become one of the most requested and purchased peel, and works well in removing dead skin cells and thickening the living epidermis. This peel can help even out colored areas such as pimples and pigment spots, and has various strength levels ranging from beginner peels to advanced, so a wide variety of people with different skin types can find what is perfect for them!
  • Hybrid Peels: Our hybrid peels are great starter peels for people just beginning to use our products, and work well to exfoliate dead skin cells and leave you with a fresh, youthful appearance.
  • Jessner Peels: These peels have been in use for more than 100 years and work well to dry out active acne, dislodge blackheads, reduce light wrinkling, and improve overall appearance and health of sun-damaged, acne-prone, or aging skin.
  • Lactic Acid Peels: Lactic Acid peels are desirable because lactic acid is naturally produced in nearly all living forms of life. These peels work well in firming skin, and promoting the growth of healthy and full skin cells.

Purchase the Perfect Holiday Gift Today

What is better than a gift that someone will actually be inclined to use on a regular basis? Our chemical peels are bound to leave their recipients with healthier, happier skin, and a bigger smile to match. If you have any questions or would like to get ahead on your holiday shopping, please feel free to visit our website or call us at (877) 336-4652 today. We look forward to helping improve your skin and quality of life!

Dive Into Light Chemical Peels

Everything You May Want to Know When looking Deeper Into Chemical Peels

People who are new to chemical peels can quickly become overwhelmed with the many choices they face as there are several different types of peels available. If you’re confused about what type of chemical peel is a good choice for your skin, you should first understand what a chemical peel is and how it works.

Chemical peeling involves applying an acid solution to the skin to slough off the upper layer(s) of skin. As the outermost layer or layers of skin is removed, the new skin that replaces the sloughed off skin has fewer imperfections and is softer and smoother for a much improved appearance and feel. Peels can be used to diminish lines, wrinkles, acne scars, dark spots and roughness of the skin caused by sun damage.

There are three basic types of chemical peels: superficial or light chemical peels, medium peels and deep peels. Experts recommend that first-time users start out with a light peel that’s less harsh on the skin. This is because a light chemical peel contains a mild acid that works gently to only remove the uppermost layer of the skin.

What Light Chemical Peels Can Do

Light chemical peels can help if you want to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, mild acne scarring, skin discoloration and dry or flaking skin. Light chemical peels typically contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) and include glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid. You can achieve glowing and radiant skin quickly and easily with a light peel that you can apply in the privacy and comfort of your own home.

They are also lower in acidity concentration as well. Depending on the type of peel, these can be anywhere from a 5% Salicylic Acid Peel to a 15% Lactic Acid or 15% Glycolic Acid Peel. Now chemicals peels with acidity concentrations that are the same can produce different results. It’s not just about the acid level, it’s about the chemicals that go into each peel, and what each one can do for your particular skin’s needs.

Light chemical peels are sometimes called lunchtime peels because they are fast and easy to apply and allow you to return to work or go straight out afterwards without anyone knowing you’ve done the treatment. Your skin can be a little pink afterwards and you may see some mild flaking, but this can typically be hidden with makeup.

Dermalure offers a very wide range of high quality chemical peels. If you’re a first-time user, our Glycolic Acid 10% peel is a good choice for beginners. This peel is one of the most popular strengths and it produces immediate, noticeable results.

Need Help Choosing a Peel?

If you need some assistance choosing a chemical peel, we’d be happy to help you select the right peel that will give you the results you’re after. Simply contact us and we’ll respond as soon as we get your message. We’re proud to offer a complete range of advanced skin care products that can help you achieve and maintain the soft and radiant skin you deserve!

How Cold Weather Affects Your Skin

How Cold Weather Affects Your Skin

cold-air

With winter coming up, we know many people are getting excited for cool nights spent around a fire with a good book, holiday fun seeing family and celebrating with loved ones, and maybe even a getaway or two to snowy mountain playgrounds. But winter brings more than just fun in the snow: that cold weather can do a number on your skin. To find out how winter affects your skin and what you can do about it, let’s dive into the science behind cold weather and skin.

Dry Air Damage

If you understand the concept of humidity, you already understand the core elements of how air affects skin. All air contains a certain percentage of water dissolved into the air: this is the humidity. Air with 100% humidity has as much water in it as it can hold, while air with 0% humidity has no water at all. For skin, humidity is generally a good thing. The higher the humidity, the more ambient moisture around your skin. The lower the humidity, the more the air will suck moisture away from skin and leave it dry.

Hot air is capable of holding more water than cold air, so as temperatures drop during the winter, humidity decreases as well. This has the effect of sapping moisture away and drying out your skin, often leaving it appearing flaky, dry, or even cracked and damaged. This is why winter can damage skin, leaving it cracked and dry.

You can do a number of things to help fight this damage. On a basic level, moisturizing creams and oils can replenish the moisture that the air sucks away from your skin, helping to combat dryness. For more severe dehydration, though, you might consider a chemical peel. Chemical peels lift away the dry, damaged top layers of the skin, revealing the healthier, younger skin that lies beneath. This new skin, which still retains more moisture, is easier to protect from the cold air by using moisturizers.

Contact Your Chemical Peel Experts

Every person’s skin is different, and you’ll need to experiment to find your own perfect regimen of care to keep your skin healthy – and we can help with that. We’ve helped countless customers replenish damaged skin and achieve a youthful, radiant look all year round, and we’d be happy to do the same for you. Feel free to browse our skin care products for new ways to fight winter dryness, or if you have questions about caring for your own unique skin type, you can call us at 877.336.4652 or reach out to us at our contact page. We look forward to hearing from you!