AgeDefy Blog

New Blog Address

2009-12-27T19:58:00.000-08:00

ANNOUNCEMENT:

I HAVE MOVED MY BLOG FROM THIS ADDRESS TO : WWW.BEAUTIRX.COM .
PLEASE VISIT MY BLOG AT THIS NEW ADDRESS!!

THANK YOU AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL.

No Tax on Cosmetic Surgery

2009-12-23T21:39:00.000-08:00

The proposed 5% tax on cosmetic surgery prompted much discussion, petitions and uprise. It was outrageous and one could argue it targeted women. No just wealthy woman, but woman of all economic demographics who want to maintain a youthful appearance. The effect would have had a significant impact on the cosmetic surgery industry and all the industries that supply the cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists. Economic times are difficult enough without an extra 5% tax on Botax,dermal fillers, facelifts, etc. Thankfully, there will be no tax on these services, at least for now. Instead there will be a 10% tax on tanning. Of course tanning booths owners are not happy and it will effect their business. Indoor tanning is risky since it can lead to cancer.

"Doctors’ groups, including the American Academy of Dermatology Association, apparently had a strong hand in persuading Senate Democratic leaders to make the modification — an enhancement, the doctors might say — to the legislation."

Say goodbye to the "Botax" and hello to the tan tax.
Health care » Doctors had launched a full-court press against the cosmetic surgery tax.
By Matt Canham
The Salt Lake Tribune
Marking their latest attempt to find a politically palatable way to pay for health reform, Senate Democrats dropped a tax on cosmetic surgeries in favor of a new one on indoor tanning.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid included the taxing switch as part of a package of amendments released over the weekend, which were aimed to get all 58 Democrats and two independents on board. It appears he succeeded and now with 60 supportive senators, Reid can overcome any Republican attempt to block the health reform bill. A final vote is expected to take place on Christmas Eve.
"I'm glad the cosmetic surgery tax at least for now is out, but we are not ready to celebrate just yet," said Renalto Saltz, a Utah physician and the president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
He remains cautious because his group was caught flat-footed in late November, when Reid added a 5 percent tax on everything from face-lifts to breast augmentations to his version of the bill.
Senate leaders expected the cosmetic surgery tax to raise $6 billion in the next decade, only a small portion of the money needed to create a new social safety net to help insure low- to middle-income Americans. But that was $6 billion more than cosmetic surgeons wanted their customers to pay.
It took only hours for cosmetic surgeons to start an aggressive lobbying campaign.
Saltz, who runs a private practice in Holladay, was deeply involved in the effort, which focused on getting former patients to complain to their senators. Groups such as the aesthetic plastic surgery society also lobbied other doctors' organizations to come to their defense. Saltz said they created a coalition of 22 surgical societies, involving some of the nation's biggest groups including the American Medical Association.
Together, they argued the tax unfairly focused on women and marked the first time an individual medical procedure would be taxed. They also suggested the tax could lead more people to leave the country for less regulated cosmetic procedures.

American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Announces New You Magazine | Yacht Vacations & Charters

2009-12-16T12:26:00.000-08:00

American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Announces New You Magazine | Yacht Vacations & Charters

Plastic Surgery Nightmare

2009-10-26T22:47:00.000-07:00

Read this story which was published in marie claire on plastic surgery gone bad.

Greedy doctors cutting corners in today's economy. One should not shop plastic surgery based on price.

Such a sad story....

Fat Transfer or Not

2009-10-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

Have you ever considered Fat Transfer instead of dermal fillers such as Sculptra, Radiesse, Juvederm or Resytlane for your cheek pad area? Puffing up the pads of the cheek area has become very popular lately. Check out all the model in the magazines and look at their cheeks. Madonna, Barbara Walters are 2 faces that come to my mind.

According to Matthew Schulman, MD., Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in NY City. "Fat can last forever if it takes. if it "takes"-problem is even best techniques only have 50-60% "take". I never put it in the face though because it is unpredictable.

As we age the underlying collagen and elastin fibers break down and wear out, resulting in wrinkles. We also lose what is called "subcutaneous fat" on our faces. This can causes us to look haggard, or hollow. There are many fillers on the market which when injected into the hollows of the cheek can give you a more youthful appearance. Many Plastic Surgeons use fat transfers in conjunction with face lifts to give the cheeks a fuller appearance. But this can also be overdone...causing an unnatural freakish appearance.

Fat grafting is the process of taking small amounts of fat from one part of the body and reimplanting it elsewhere, where it is needed. It takes about 30-45 minutes depending on how easy the fat is to harvest. However, because it is unpredictable, you should consult with your doctor, do your research and make an informed decision. Fat transfers are also widely used for other part of the body. The risks are minimal, there may be some soreness or swelling. The main downside is your body tends to absorb it and it can be lumpy.

When I asked four different Plastic Surgeons about Fat Transfer to the face area, only one would recommend it.

Dysport Competition

2009-10-25T18:25:00.001-07:00

Just when I thought I have blogged enough about Dysport, I can upon an article in Dermatology Times, Oct 2009.

According to this article, " In a very random sampling of physicians from around the country... Doctors think it offers potential, but a lot of dermatologists seem to be taking a measured approach to trying it, rather than jumping in with both feet."

This seems to be go along with my most recent post. Botox is reliable. There also is the problem of the way in which it is diluted and the possibility of waste once it has been diluted.

"For people who feel Botox just no longer works as well as it once did, it's nice to have another choice."

Dr. Greenberg, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Nevada, points out that while competition could lead to lower pricing, the packaging for both products may interfere with that.

"Because you need less product with Dysport, it should cost less. The problem is the vials are labeled for single use, and in Nevada, we are restricted to using a vial on one patient only.

"So, even if a patient only needs a small portion of the vial, we have to toss the rest away, anyway.

"If they labeled the vials for multi-patient use or made smaller vials, that would result in a lower cost," Dr. Greenberg says.

"If Dysport made a smaller vial, I think they would overtake the market," he says.

Lastest on Dysport

2009-10-25T18:11:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since I have blogged... shame on me. Anyway, in my travels it seems as if Dysort is becoming popular in the local doc's offices as an alternative to Botox. However, it also seems as if most patients are still preferring their tried and true Botox. The price difference is insignificant and I am also finding that many offices are offering Botox specials.

I had the opportunity to try Dysport- however, I chose to stay with what I know works. Am I tempted to try Dysport- I am. :-)

So perhaps my next entry on this subject will be yes, I made the switch!! Stay tuned!!

Are You Ready for a Nip/Tuck?

2009-08-15T14:56:00.000-07:00

When is it time to consider a face/necklift? Have you been thinking about it?? Do you look into the mirror and pull your face and neck taunt??... Oh the wonders of growing older and the price of maintaining our youthful appearance...As Nora Ephron says,"There's your neck. You know, our faces are lies, but our necks are the truth." UGH!!!

When you add up the costs and the time of liquid facelifts, (even if you are in the industry ;-) )........ is it cost effective? or is it time for a little nip- tuck. There are, of course,factors to consider. And the longer you wait- the more elasticity is lost, the greater the cost. OUCH!!

It can be a difficult decision. Unless of course, you are very opposed to going under the knife... which I am not.

The costs of Injections and fillers adds up very quickly and they are temporary. Let's face it, temporary has its pros and cons.
Pro- if you don't like the results there are quick remedies. You can actually dissolve fillers like Juvedem, Perlane, and Restylane. Or you can wait it out for a few months. Not true for Radiesse and Sculptra, which may last 1 or 2 years. On the flip side-IT IS HIGH maintenance. Once you start it's hard to stop. Very addictive. IF you choose to continue to use fillers, plan on budgeting for them, or go for it.. it will pay for itself and no more needles in your face. Except of course for a little Botox now and then :-)

One more point... please do your homework and choose a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. See his before and after photos, talk to his patients and please do not go for a quick fix. Don't go to a chain facility or think a non-surgical face-lift will really give you the result you are looking for.

Choices...at least we have them. :-)

More on Dysport

2009-08-14T12:22:00.000-07:00

Seems as if one of the reasons that MD's may not be making the switch to Dysport has more to do with economics than anything else. Allergen, makers of Botox and Juvederm, bundle the products- thus bringing the cost down. Switching to Dysport will increase the cost of Juvederm. If Dysport is a 15-20% less than Botox and the cost of Juvederm goes up for those of us who use it... then.. it becomes a wash. I will have to cost it out next time I get injected. :-)

On the Hunt for Dysport

2009-08-13T20:51:00.001-07:00

I finally found a local plastic surgeon who began using Dysport when it first became FDA approved this summer. It is too early to tell how long the effects last when compared to Botox. It does, however, kick in sooner than Botox. That is the good news. The other good news is that according to this doctor the price of Dysport is about $100.00 less than Botox. I believe that this means $100.00 less per injection site. At least that is what she is charging. Some docs charge per injection site while others charge per unit. Ask your doctor how they determine the price BEFORE you make an appointment.

The learning curve is very slight, and it really is not a big deal. The measurements are slightly difference than Botox- but other than that it is very simple.

So then, what is all the fuss... ???? Are some doctors just plain lazy?- Why change what is clearly working???

Give the patients the choice! If in the end Botox wins out... well then... we can all go back to it.. Perhaps Allergen will have lowered the price by then. :-) Having an option is good- and if it lasts longer, kicks in faster and cost less... WOW. That is a win -win for everyone.

I am not due just yet for my Botox shot- when i am .... I now know where to go....:-) Stay tuned....

Here's to Beautiful Skin!!

2009-08-05T22:51:00.000-07:00

Looking for the best anti-aging skin care products?

Here is a list of the top ingredients for 2009.

Look for these when buying anti-aging skin care products.

You can find many of these ingredients on your dermatologist or plastic surgeon's shelf.

Many OTC products have some of these ingredients- however strengths differ.

Retinol- Vitamin A and Tretinoin (prescription)
Also available Retinol in none-prescription strength
Vitamin C ester- the most stable form of Vitamin C
L-ascorbic acid - also Vitamin C
Tacapherol and Tootrienol- Vitamin E
Alpha lipoic acid
Ferulic acid
Hyaluronic acid
Coenzyme -Q-10
Kinetin
Glycolic and other alpha and beta hydroxy acids
Argirelene, GHK, and cooper peptides
DMAE- this ingredient is banned in Canada
Idebenone, thiotaine and other anti-oxidants
Peptides
Squalone
Waglerin-1 a peptide found in Temple Viper
Growth Factors

To Beautiful Skin!!!

Botox or Dysport- What is your Poison?

2009-08-04T17:53:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a lot of articles and talking to local doctors about Dysport vs Botox.

It is interesting to learn how many doctors are reluctant to use Dysport. Claiming that the price is not much less than Botox- so why bother. Are they so used to Botox that they just are not interested in the learning curve? Now, keep in mind my research is limited to the docs that I speak to on a local level.

Giving consumers a choice between the products is a good thing -especially since there are some consumers that love to be early adapters and will try anything. Myself included.

Botox has been such a monopoly for so long, it is nice to now have an alternative. As for myself, i have been using Botox for over 15 years. When I first started using it, my forehead lines were pretty deep- now I don't even get injections there. My frown lines between my brows, have improved as well- though I am finding that my botox injections do not last as long as they used to. This maybe because I am so critical of those little lines creeping back - It is like coloring your hair. At the first sign of gray.... time to color again!!!

Both Botox and Dysport are botulinum toxin type A- however the manufacturing process is slightly different.

Apparently some patients notice the effect within 24 - 48 hours and some think it lasts longer than Botox.

Since, I have not tried it yet. I can not comment On the hunt for a local doc to inject me the next time the little annoying lines come back.

RADIESSE GETS FDA APPROVAL TO MIX WITH LIDOCAINE

2009-07-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Radiesse, BioForm Medical Inc., received FDA approval to mix lidocaine in with the product. What this means to the patient is that by mixing lidocaine with the Radiesse, there will be no discomfort when injected.

Typically Radiesse, a dermal filler, is injected in the cheek area to fill the loss of volume that one gets as they age. It can also be used in the smiles line called Nasio-labial folds. Without lidocaine the physician typically administers a dental block and topical to ease the discomfort. Due to the lidocaine mixture, when Radiesse is injected you may get more swelling initially. This swelling will go down as the lidocaine wears off. Though there still may be slight swelling from the injection. This swelling may last for a couple of days. Once the swelling goes down you will be able to see the actual fullness from the filler. It is best to have less and go for a touch-up once the product has settled.

For more info on Radiesse, please visit the website www.radiesse.com or ask your MD

Topical anti-cancer drug could have anti-aging potential

2009-07-22T12:13:00.001-07:00

Topical anti-cancer drug could have anti-aging potential

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LIQUID FACELIFTS

2009-06-24T13:44:00.000-07:00

Liquid Facelifts

Even before the economic down turn more and more female consumers and some men started turning to facial contouring or Liquid Facelifts to ease the signs of aging. With so many products on the market today, it is becoming increasingly easier to hold off undergoing facial plastic surgery.
Now, with our pocket books stretched a little more than last year or the year before- we can still look rested and youthful through different dermal fillers and Botox. The key is going to the right doctor or doctors who have experience with the different fillers and know how to inject, where to inject and how much to inject.
Recentally, I have seen some very scary faces; women who have either had too much filler or exaggerated facial implants. They look freakish or too puffy. It is so important to do your research and know who your injector is. In my experience, not all doctors are the best injectors. Not all dermatologists or plastic surgeons are good injectors. Trained aesthetic nurses are often the best injectors of Botox and dermal fillers. Some manufacturers i.e. Bioform use an aesthetic RN as their trainer for Radiesse. Yet on the other hand, if you are debating on certain types of fillers that are longer lasting, you may decide to visit a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. The same is true for lip augmentation. There are some derms and plastic surgeons that have an excellent reputation for sculpting the lips. And if you are looking for a liquid facelift, with the combination of several fillers and Botox do your research. You may have to go to more than office- but the results will be worth the trips.
Sound confusing... ??? Well, it can be.
Here is a list of fillers and what they do, as well as how you can use them together.
1. Radiesse and Sculptra are great for the cheek and nasolabial area ( the lines that run from the side of your nose down your cheek area). Radiesse is more of a semi-permanent filler and will last 1 year or more. Sculptra helps to grow your own collagen and you will not see the results for a few months. Sculptra may last up to 2 years or more. Radiesse and Scuplture are more contouring filler products. As we age our cheeks loose collagan and sometimes look flattened. Both fillers will plump them up. I think less is more and caution against too much at first. You can always go back for more. Try 1 syringe first of Radiesse, then if you need more go back for more. Scupltra tends to be more expensive because you need more and it is recommended that you come back for several treatments. Radiesse has also been used for non-surgical nose and chin augmentation.
Radiesse costs around $600-$650 per syringe and Sculptra may cost around $1100 for the inital treatment. I would caution against using Radiesse under the eyes to fill in the eye hollow. (Juvederm or Evolence is better suited for this). There will be little brusing, if you have a good injector. Both Radiesse and Sculptra are a little tricker to inject than other dermal fillers. I would definitely do my due dilengence before booking your appointment. Ask how long the doctor or nurse has been using them, and why they prefer one over the other.Oh and don't get spoked by all the wierd stories you read online. Just do your homework. Also realize that anytime you inject any filler, you could have a reaction. If you are planning a special event have the fillers injected at least 3 weeks before. www.radiesse.com, www.sculptra.com
2. Juvederm, Resytlane, and Perlane are injectables with hyuranic acid and are also dermal fillers. They are fillers for deep wrinkles in the nasiolabel folds, the corners of the mouth, and lips. Juverderm comes in different thicknesses to be used for deeper lines if needed. Perlane is a thicker version of Restylane and used for the same purpose. The difference is more subjective and some doctors prefer one over another. The consistencies are different and they also feel different once injected. Juvederm hurts less than Perlane, Perlane may last longer than Juvederm. Juvederm can also be used under the eye area to fill in that hollow look which comes with aging. This area is thin and takes a skilled injector. If you use it for the cheek area- it won't last long. Personally, I think that hyuranic acids are not as good for this area. You need quite a bit and it does not last long. Juvederm, Restylane and Perlane last anywhere from 4- 6 month or more. Some people "eat" it up quicker, their bodies aborb it faster. Syringes of these dermal fillers range from $325.00 - $625.00 per syringe.Allergan and Medicus sometimes run coupon specials. Check their websites www.juvederm.com www.RestylaneUSA.com
3. Evolence is the newest filler on the market. Supposedly it will last through 12 months; this is what their web states. www.evolence.com. Unlike the hyuranic acid fillers above, Evolence is an advanced collgen filler. It does not require testing like the old collgen fillers from before. EVOLENCE® is recommended for the correction of moderate-to-deep facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds, the ones that appear from your nose to the corners of your mouth ("smile lines").
My experience with this filler is very minimial as of this writing. I have seen the results, they look very good. Although there may be some initial lumpiness which seems to go away. Evolence is also being used under the eyes to fill in the hollowness. Again use caution there.
All of the above fillers are FDA approved- however, physicians are using them in different areas of the face as off-label. This means that the FDA has only approved them for a certain area of use on the face. NOT TO WORRY!! This is done all the time - hence the Liquid Facelift.
4. Botox- We should all know by now the many uses of Botox. Best for the frown lines and crows feet. It can also be injected into the bunny lines on the bridge of your nose, which prevents that squishy look. It works great above lips- to soften the vertical lines that are formed when you purse your lips. It can also be injected in the chin area to help the down turning of your mouth and sad expression. Again, as in all injectables go to a reputable injector, otherwise you could have a funny look or droopy eyes which happens occasionally. I recently heard that a woman had to have an eye lift because she got droopy eyes from Botox. Droopy eyes corrects itself. I think this woman just wanted an eye-lift and to keep it on the QT. :) Botox last about 3 months or more. Dysport, which I have blogged about before, it is not available yet. It should available by July 09. The verdict is still out on whether Dysport will be better than Botox- cost less, and last longer. Stay tuned...
Using the above combos could give you a liquid face-lift. Cost less than surgery- yet is high maintenanceBotox for the frown lines between your eyebrows / forehead, maybe a little for your crows feet and if you have vertical lip lines a pinch there too. Don't worry you will NOT drool!!Juverderm, Evolence or Restylane for the nasolabial folds and marionette lines ( sides of the mouth) and your lips. Lips are best with Juverderm. Never Radiesse. Radiesse or Scupltra for the cheek area. That should do it to refresh your looks. Costs vary and touch ups are needed.

More Uses for Botox

2009-06-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

Below is an interesting article I came across about anther use for Botox. Botox has become a very versitile treatment and as doctors continue to use it they are finding more uses for it. So, ladies, if your man is balding..maybe a shot of Botox will help ! :-)

Botox May Cure Baldness, Doctor Says

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Could Botox cure baldness? One Beverly Hills doctor thinks it could.

Balding men may be offered a cure for their thinning heads — injections of Botox.

The toxic chemicals are generally used to smooth out wrinkles, but doctors have discovered it can regrow hair too.

The treatment was discovered by accident — Dr. Simon Ourian in Beverly Hills, Calif., was trying to cure his mother’s headaches. Botox is used off-label to treat migraines, and Ourian’s mother, a cancer victim, was going through chemotherapy.

After injecting Botox into her scalp, Ourian was stunned to see his mother’s hair regrow. Botox dilates the blood vessels, which allows nutrients into the hair shaft and stimulates new growth.

Ourian tested his theory on volunteers for three years, and although the treatment needs repeated injections, he has a "dramatic" difference.

"I was happily surprised," Ourian said. "As hair loss is a significant source of insecurity, there was no shortage of volunteers."

The internet provides a route out of recession for cosmetics companies

2009-06-11T22:43:00.001-07:00

The internet provides a route out of recession for cosmetics companies

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Mineral Make-up Myth

2009-05-24T17:23:00.000-07:00

Mineral Make-up lines have done a great marketing job, convincing women that mineral make-up is better for the skin.

Suggesting that all other products are not safe or not as good for your skin is absolutely wrong and deceptive. All cosmetics are safe and are highly regulated by the FDA.

Choosing a cosmetic should not be based on marketing, but based on what looks and feels good on your skin. Mature skin has a different need that 20-year old skin.

I for one do not like mineral make-up for several reasons.

First, the particles sink into my pores accentuating my fine lines, not smoothing them. Secondly, I find that some of the minerals in the blushes and powders break apart in the compact very quickly, Thirdly, the SPF in mineral makeup is NOT enough to be effective- again a marketing myth. Use must use a sunscreen in addition to your make-up. It drives me crazy knowing so many consumers are hooked into the myth of mineral make-up.

Make-up containing Silicone makes your skin appear smooth and feel like silk. It can actually improve the way your skin looks. Whenever, I wear a silicone based liquid foundation, I ALWAYS get compliments on my skin. Silicones are added to cosmetics simply because they work.

Two-time Emmy award winning makeup artist Kevin James Bennett comments, "silicones’ unique properties have completely redefined the performance and look of modern makeup."

Professional make-up artists generally do not use mineral- as mineral does not photograph well.

One professional line of make-up that I really like is Face atelier, developed by a woman who saw a need to provide a simple quality make-up line to women of all ages and professional artists.

Welcome Reloxin

2009-05-23T15:58:00.000-07:00

By Elena Gorgan, Life & Style Editor

20th of May 2009, 17:25 GM

For years in a row, Botox injections have been the number one choice for all women in terms of beauty treatments. Fillers have also done their fair share of improving women’s appearance, as also has regular plastic surgery, despite the fact that the last one comes with the disadvantage of a long and painful recovery time. Luckily, new techniques are starting to gain ground, and Botox will soon become a thing of the past, Allure magazine assures all women.

The first anti-ageing treatment that is already showing Botox the high road is, according to the popular mag, the wrinkle relaxer. “Botox has its powers, but speed is not one of them. The injections take up to a week to start relaxing wrinkles. Enter Reloxin, which pending approval by the FDA later this year, shows results in as little as two days. According to director of the University of Miami Cosmetic and Research Institute Leslie Baumann, who helped test it, Reloxin also lasts about five months, as opposed to three or four with Botox.” Allure writes.

Moreover, given that Reloxin is also reportedly more efficient with frown lines than Botox, chances of it replacing it altogether are actually quite good – which is precisely what Botox makers fear right now. Still, there’s more where Reloxing came from that might replace Botox: like skin resurfacers, which are “fractional CO2 lasers” that can be used on deep wrinkles and scars, both on the face and the rest of the body. With a 43 to 80 percent proved effectiveness in reducing deep wrinkles, this type of laser also takes considerably less time to heal than traditional CO2 lasers, while also involving less scarring and bleaching risks.

Another procedure that is slowly becoming more popular with women looking to hold onto their youthful appearance for as long as possible is Latisse, the new FDA-approved drug for the extension of the eyelashes. Used on a regular basis and according to the instructions on the box, Latisse has been shown to return the most extraordinary results in terms of lengthening of the eyelashes, and might actually stand to replace regular mascara completely one day, just like we also reported a while back.

Collagen rebuilders are also hot on the heels of Botox in terms of ability of fighting the signs of old age, with Allure saying that they might even replace it sometime in the future. “Light-emitting diode (LED) machines in doctors’ offices stimulate collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and even zap acne – and now there are smaller machines to be used at home. The Tända Professional Skincare System, Omnilux New-U, and PerriconeMD Light Renewal Skin Rejuvenation Therapy all cost between $299 and $395 and use a combination of light for different skin problems. They're less powerful than their big brothers – they take longer per session (15 to 30 minutes) and offer less dramatic results. But all are certified safe – even for the delicate skin around the eyes.” the mag writes.

However, not all such beauty treatments aim for household use: Evolence, a new line filler, for instance, does not. It is believed to replace both Botox and collagen because it has been shown to be very efficient with deep lines and wrinkles, while also not causing any allergic reaction, Allure concludes by saying.

All in all, it seems like, soon enough, women will have more efficient and less time-consuming options to fight the signs of old age than just plain ol’ Botox.

15 Skin Care Myths

2009-05-23T14:37:00.000-07:00

SKIN CARE MYTHS

(www.skininc.com)

1. Facial exercises tone facial muscles and make a person appear younger

2. Vitamin A thins the skin

3. Cucumbers help reduce puffiness

4. Skin damage and signs of aging can be cleared up quickly

5. The higher the SPF the better

6. Layering several products with SPF increases protection

7. Topical creams containing collagen can replace collagen

8. Natural and organic products are always better

9. Using large quantities of products yields better results

10. Antioxidants make wrinkles go away

11. Skin repair only happens at night

12. Preservatives in skin care products are bad

13. Packaging is not important

14.Choclate and greasy foods causes acne

15.All sun damage to skin occurs before 18 years of age

LED Lights Benefit skin

2009-05-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

There are so many non-surgical treatments on the market today to fight off the aging process. Light Therapy has come of age. It is non-invasive and can be used in conjunction with chemical peels, and hydrafacials, and microderms. The result is skin rejuvenation. It is painless with no down-time and can be used on all skin types. Plus it is relaxing.

LED Skin Benefits include:

- Rejuvenating; produces collagen
- Vitalizing
-Toning; diminishes the signs of aging
-Encourages a natural chemical reaction within the skin; creating moisture
-Calms and soothes skin irritations and inflammation
-Destroys bacteria that can cause acne

So the next time you are having a hydrafacial or microdarmabrasion ask your aesthetician if they have a LED red light for anti-aging.

Webinar INFO

2009-05-12T14:57:00.000-07:00

THE AESTHETIC PRACTICE ASSOCIATION

https://miinews.webex.com/mw0305l/mywebex/default.do?nomenu=true&siteurl=miinews&service=6&main_url=https%3A%2F%2Fmiinews.webex.com%2Fec0600l%2Feventcenter%2Fevent%2FeventAction.do%3FtheAction%3Ddetail%26confViewID%3D278306801%26siteurl%3Dmiinews%26%26%26

Webinar May 14

2009-05-12T14:54:00.000-07:00

HydraFacial™ – Solution-Based Skin Resurfacing Treatments that Generate Immediate Results and Profits

1 hour
Description: In today’s increasingly competitive aesthetic market, it is critical to keep your practice ahead of the competition with new technology that has proven results and high patient acceptance/satisfaction. Practitioners also need to always think about return on investment (ROI) when making business decisions. This webinar is designed to help practitioners understand (1) the clinical efficacy of the HydraFacial™ hydradermabrasion procedures, as well as (2) the effective strategies for building a profitable aesthetic practice and gaining better return on investment with the HydraFacial MD® system.

Objectives:
1. Explain the findings from Dr. Freedman’s scientific studies, including:
• How hydradermabrasion significantly increases skin thickness, fibroblast density and resident antioxidant levels.
• How its use with Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) gives better outcomes
2. Explain the effective strategies and tactics for building a profitable aesthetic practice in a slow economy by:
• Driving patients to the HydraFacial treatment
• Up-selling and cross-selling to ancillary treatments
• Keeping patients coming back with home-use skincare products
3. Explain the clinical and economic benefits of integrating home-use products into treatment regimen
4. Explain proven cost-effective patient marketing and promotion techniques

Summertime Fun and Sun

2009-05-02T16:43:00.000-07:00

Now that we are approaching summertime, we all know how important it is to wear sunscreen No matter what your age.

You would be amazed to see the sundamage under your skin that has not crept to the surface yet. As we age and our skin thins, those nasty sun spots on our face are acually sun damage causing hyperpigmentation. Some of us are more prone to those spots than others

Research shows 90 percent of wrinkles are caused by the sun's UVA light and sun damage is the #1 cause of premature aging in women and men.

I recommend using a good sunscreen with a SPF of at least 3o. Wear it UNDER your makeup. Don't rely on makeup that has SPF. It is not as effective and usually loses it efficacy, due to the ingredients in the product that break down the SPF. Also, do not think that mineral powder takes the place of a good SPF, it does not.

Even at low-level exposures, UVA light breaks down collagen, which causes wrinkles. Even worse, scientists have found that UVA is the main culprit for many melanomas because it reaches deep into the underlying support structure of the skin.

If you work in an office with large windows, wearing sunscreen indoors is equally as important. Wear your sunscreen while driving reapplying throughout the day. Many of us have sun damage on one side of our face and our hands from driving.

There are many good SPF on the market today, ranging from drug store brands to speciality brands found only at the doctor's office. Some brands I like - Young Pharmaceutical's Mela Shade and Mela-Shade E, TI-SILC, Obagi C-RxC Sungard, La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Lait SPF, SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense, Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock.

And look for protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

More about Peptides

2009-04-30T22:58:00.000-07:00

Excerpt form Article in Medesthetics Magazine, May 2009
http://medesthetics.epubxpress.com/

Peptides Promise New Breakthroughs in Skin Care

A mere 20 amino acids form the basic building blocks to hundreds of thousands of possible combinations of peptide chains. Yet within the test tubes being filled and assayed every day with these thousands upon thousands of combinations of amino acid chains, just one link could very well hold the answer to a significant breakthrough in reversing the grip of aging on skin.
The combinations of these tiny synthetic amino acid chains are often random, and the time it takes to evaluate the countless permutations can require years. Furthermore, scientists are tasked with the challenge to find the shortest chain possible for penetration.

But by sending messages and unlocking the code to a variety of processes in our skin, a small dose of a peptide can have a potentially huge impact on our skin’s biological activity without the potential irritation that we find with other actives.
“It’s a little like Name That Tune,” says John E. Kulesza, president of Young Pharmaceuticals, Wethersfield, CT (www.youngpharm.com). “The object is to name the tune in as few notes as possible. With peptides, the objective becomes how can we tell a fibroblast, for instance, to make a protein in as few notes, or amino acids, as possible.”

MATRIXYL BREAKS GROUND IN COLLAGEN STIMULATION
Although we’ve known about peptides for years, scientists only started researching them about 50 years ago and, it wasn’t until the last 10 years that the cosmetics industry began to focus on these tiny building blocks of protein.
Today, pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturers alike are studying peptides for the wide range of promising applications offered by these cell messengers.

The Truth about Makeup

2009-04-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

We all have been conditioned over the past few years that mineral makeup is the best.
However, the truth is that as we age mineral make-up can make us look older and not refined.
Additionally, the SPF factor in makeup is a big hype. If you use a makeup with titanium dioxide it will flash white if you are photographed. A good alternative for a smooth refined look is make-up with Silicone. Silicone is derived from siica and it unique properties make it feel like silk on the skin. It is a water-binding agent and holds up even when wet. When you apply a silicone based foundation your skin looks flawless, youthful and glowing. A great professional make-up line to try is Face atelier.
It is innovative, simple and elegant. My skin has never looked so good with makeup on. For me, mineral makeup seeps into my fine lines and extenuates them, I don't feel like I have a flawless look.

A word of caution when using a makeup with SPF. The SPF ingredient is not strong enough to be effective and as you wear makeup in seeps into your skin, losing more of its effectiveness. Dermatologists will generally agree that when SPF is combined with something else such as makeup it often does not retain all of its UV-filtering properties. The best advice is to use a good sunscreen under your make-up.

Move Over Botox!!

2009-04-10T15:35:00.000-07:00

Allergan, the makers of Botox may have some competition with the pending arrival of Reloxin. Reloxin is awaiting FDA approval and has been used in Europe and South America. Seems like the Europeans are always one step ahead of the U.S., when it comes to injectables. Perlane, Radiesse and Resytlane was also used in European countries prior to the FDA approved it.

According to the buzz, Reloxin works quicker and last longer than Botox. Botox lasts on the average about 3 months. A final decision on Reloxin should be some time later this year.

It will be interesting to keep up with data and peer reviewed literature to see if Reloxin works as well as Botox and lasts longer. Wondering what the price point will be?? Right now Botox is averaging about $14.00 a unit, yet you can get it for $10.00 a unit from some nurse practitioners and physicians. My guess is that it may cost a little more than Botox and that maybe Allergan will begin to give the docs a break on their price so it will trickle down to consumers.

During the depression it was a Liptstick factor... during this recession.. Botox is still on the rise and keeping steady!!!

Longer Lashes

2009-04-02T11:52:00.000-07:00

Just to update everyone... Apparently one box of Latisse is good for 2 months. I bet you can stretch it for 3 months. Cost for 2 months would be $60.00 and 3 months would $40.00. Now, that is more reasonable. I have a tube of RevitaLash that has lasted for several months. Though, I find that I do not apply it nightly as suggested for best results. RevitaLash retails for $130.00 but you can buy it for less on line or at trade shows for cost.

Longer Lashes

2009-03-29T23:32:00.000-07:00

I 've been contemplating trying Allergan's new Lash enhancer. First there was Jan Marini, then RevitaIash, and Dermalash, plus others. The FDA put a stop to Jan Marini's formulation. I tried the orginal formulation and saw my lashes lengthen, of course they reversed back to normal after i stopped. I have also used RevitaIash and DermaLash. RevitaIash made my eyes lashes longer and filled in some hairs on my brows. I have not tried the new formulation. DermaLash has peptides, no significant change, but my eyelashes do appear to be healthier.

For those of you who do not about the controversy , it has to do with the drug, prostaglandin for glaucoma that was in Jan Marini's original formulation. The FDA put a stop to the manufacturing of the product. Now Allergan has gotten FDA approval for Latisse. See Below.

Here is the press release for Lastisse:
Allergan, the makers of Botox, announced that the FDA has approved LATISSE (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% as a treatment to increase eyelashes in length, thickness, and darkness.

Bimatoprost, the active ingredient in LATISSE™,was first approved in 2001 as a medical product to lower intraocular pressure in people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Available only through a doctor, LATISSE™ is a once-daily prescription treatment applied to the base of the upper eyelashes with a sterile, single-use-per-eye disposable applicator.

According to LATISSE™, users can expect to experience longer, fuller and darker eyelashes in as little as eight weeks, with full results in 16 weeks, BUT in order to maintain long, thick, dark eyelashes, you have to continue using LATISSE. If you discontinue using it, eyelashes will gradually return to where they were prior to treatment over a period of weeks to months (average eyelash hair cycle).

COST: For a year's worth of long, thick, dark lashes, expect to pay almost $1,500 a year -- or $120 a month.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Eye redness (3.6%)
Itchy eyes (3.6%)
Skin hyperpigmentation (2.9%)

WARNINGS:

Allergan warns against applying LATISSE to the lower eyelid because it may cause darkening of the eyelid skin which may be reversible.
LATISSE™ use may also cause increased brown pigmentation of the colored part of the eye which is likely to be permanent.
It is possible for hair growth to occur in other areas of your skin that LATISSE™ frequently touches.
It is also possible for a difference in eyelash length, thickness, fullness, pigmentation, number of eyelash hairs, and/or direction of eyelash growth to occur between eyes.
These differences, should they occur, will usually go away if you stop using LATISSE™.

So, the verdict is still out. I have spoken to several woman who are currently using it. Their comments are stinging eyes at first but it goes away and a little redness. The lashes that I have seen are long and dark. Mmmmmm ........ It is tempting.

WHAT IS A PEPTIDE??

2009-03-29T11:46:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what all the fuss is about Peptides? What are peptides and how do they work?

Peptides are chains of amino acids and are anti-wrinkle agents. They work by signaling the skin to make more collagen. As we age collagen is destroyed. Applying peptides directly to your skin is a way to trick your skin into thinking that it has lost collagen recently and needs to make more.

Look for products with peptides in them but be careful of the percentage claims. If a product claims 60% peptides beware!! Many of those peptides are not at full strength. a marketing hype.

Some of the latest peptides for fines lines and wrinkles to look for are: Matrixyl, Argilene and for the eye area look for products with Regu age and Eyleliss.

However Skin Care Sales Stay AFloat

2009-03-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

(http://www.cosmeticsdesign.com)

Meanwhile prestige skin care products were the most successful performers in 2008 staying even with the previous year on a dollar basis at $2.4bn.

Within the category anti-aging performed well as did “specialization” products such as whitening and allergy relief products which enjoyed double-digit growth.

Face products priced over $70 also enjoyed healthy growth of 4 percent and natural/spa/wellness brands grew 6 percent to $304m.

Commenting on the figures, NPD beauty analyst Karen Grant said: “Across all three prestige beauty categories, there were areas that experienced growth despite overall soft performance.

“We saw growth in premium price, natural and new innovations among trusted brands as well as alternative brand types.

“Moving forward, we must continue to look for these opportunities, find new ways to reach our consumers, and build our relationship and communication with them – that relationship is an increasingly critical part of the total value - not just price - they see in what we are offering them and in whom they choose to invest.”

Luxury Beauty Sales Fell

2009-03-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

Total prestige beauty sales were down to $8.38bn in a year when the economic situation deteriorated rapidly and consumers began looking more carefully at their spending.

Make-up sales defy lipstick factor

One of the surprises of the study was the poor performance of make-up which had been mooted as a recession resistant beauty category. The much talked about Lipstick Theory had predicted that women, unable to splash out on expensive luxuries, would turn to make-up to cheer themselves up.

But the NPD study said that luxury make-up sales in the US fell 3 percent last year to $3.2bn. With the exception of natural make-up and premium priced face products, all segments in the make-up category suffered declining sales last year.

(http://www.cosmeticsdesign.com/Products-Markets/Luxury-beauty-sales-turn-ugly)

Peptides have 'immense' potential in future of skin care

2009-03-28T17:55:00.000-07:00

Check out this article: http://www.cosmeticsdesign.com

about the future of peptides.