Thursday, September 25, 2014

No more turkey neck ! Thermi RF, the non-surgical neck lift

My office tested Ulthera and Thermage and compared it to Yag laser neck tightening and found the Yag laser to be more effective, and much faster and less painful.  Until now, I would not recommend anything other than the Yag laser for non-surgical saggy skin tightening.  The Thermi-RF is a newer device which employs radiofrequency heating with a subcutaneous probe.  It achieves neck tightening and can be used to tighten saggy body skin anywhere - abdomen, arms, legs, sides, breasts.  The treatment is done with local tumescent anesthesia.

Thermi RF...it is the next best thing after the surgical neck lift!

Thursday, September 18, 2014

A non-surgical brow lift with filler

As we age, our brow will tend to sink downward and the tails of our eyebrows will trend downward as well, that is if we still have adequate hair (see eyebrow hair transplant for more info,).  In a woman, if the brow is sunken, it will tend to masculinize as well as age the face.  In a man, it will age and make for a meaner or more angry expression.

A subtle natural brow lift, as can be achieved with hyaluronic acid filler, will serve to feminize and rejuvenate a woman giving her a more alert and healthier look.  For a man the lift will rejuvenate, and also give a more approachable, happier, healthier look.

Brow lifts with hyaluronic acid (HA) filler can last a year, and each time stimulates new collagen and elastin for more permanence.  It can be modified or adjusted easily with the enzyme that dissolves HA filler which is more forgiving than a permanent correction with surgery.

The filler can also be placed in the brow, to improve symmetry.  Asymmetry can be unattractive and distracting.  Many people will develop worse brow droop on their left side due to many years of excess UV radiation through the car window and worse skin laxity on that left side.  Filler is helpful to correct this problem.

With filler treatment, expect slight tenderness within 24 hours after, and possible bruising and swelling for a few days to weeks.  Most physicians will suggest a follow up visit where additional filler or adjustments may be needed.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

PicoSure Laser for Tattoos

We got it !

I now have the PicoSure Laser available for tattoo removal treatment.  It is supposed to clear the dark tattoos faster than the usual 1064 Q-switched Yag laser but more data on is needed.  As soon as I get some feedback about that from my patients, I will let you know.  This laser is not as safe on darker skin types or tanned skin, which should instead be treated with a 1064.  Fortunately, we will have a 1064 picosecond laser soon, but itis currently not available yet.

P.S. I will remove a radiation marker tattoo in a former cancer patient NO CHARGE!  Please check with your oncologist prior to booking your removal appointments.


Friday, September 12, 2014

Sorting out what cream is best for your aging face

It can be overwhelming, the many choices of rejuvenating facial skin creams.  I frequently get asked about which is the best cream or cream(s).  While I do not believe there is one best cream for everyone, I do believe there is a best combination of creams for any given person.  The latest philosophy on daily home skin care rejuvenating regimens is to include the following:  Growth Factors, Retinoids, Antioxidants, Sunblocks and Specialty Products (like skin lighteners).  The SkinMedica line coined the term "GRASS" to help us remember these five components of a good anti-aging daily skin care regimen.  Most women and men will benefit from a GRASS regimen if their goal is to fight aging changes in their skin.


To find products that contain these ingredients, please see my skin cream ingredient database, www.skincreamguide.com

Thursday, September 4, 2014

WHICH INGREDIENTS TO INCORPORATE INTO YOUR HOME SKIN CARE REGIMEN

For Anti-aging...

The main components of a rejuvenating home topical skin care regimen should include the following:
1.  Sunblock
2.  Antioxidants
3.  Growth Factors
4.  Retinoids
5.  The as needed Extras:  skin lighteners, anti-redness, DNA repair, exfoliating, acne-fighting.
It is best if you see a dermatologist to have your regimen personalized and designed based on your skin type and any other special needs.

For Acne-prone skin...

1. Exfoliating cleanser or gentle cleanser (if sensitive skin)
2. Retinoids
3. Anti-inflammatory
4. Anti-bacterial
5. Sunblock

For Rosacea-prone skin...

1. Gentle non-medicated cleanser
2. Sunblock
3. Anti-redness, calming, vasoconstricting
4. Anti-inflammatory