|
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
|
| Skin Care Education |
 |
|
| BOTOX® |
|
|
|
What is BOTOX®?
How does BOTOX® work?
When will I see results from a BOTOX® treatment?
How long does BOTOX® last?
Who should administer BOTOX®?
Is treatment with BOTOX® painful?
Who should not use BOTOX®?
Will I experience any side effects?
Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?
What will happen to the frown lines between my brows if I choose
not to continue treatments?
Is BOTOX® affordable?
What is BOTOX®?
BOTOX® is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium.
BOTOX® was originally used by opthamologists to treat twitching of the eyelid. It
has been proven to be a safe, reliable, and effective treatment for reducing
wrinkles since 1982. It is a non-surgical, physician-administered treatment that
can temporarily reduce moderate to severe frown lines between the brows. During
treatment, very low doses of BOTOX® are administered via a few tiny injections
directly into the muscles that cause those stubborn lines. The treatment is
usually done in about 10 minutes, and no recovery time is needed. Within days,
you may see an improvement that can last up to 4 months. Results may vary.
How does BOTOX® work?
When you frown, smile, squint, or use any other common facial expression, your
muscles contract under your skin. When you do it over and over, the result can
be wrinkles. BOTOX® is injected directly into the muscles. It works by blocking
the transmission of nerve impulses to the injected muscles; this reduces the
activity of the muscles that cause those persistent lines to form. In some
cases, with repeated treatments, the wrinkle can actually disappear. The effects
of BOTOX® are confined to the treatment sites: It does not travel through your
body.
When will I see results from a BOTOX® treatment?
Within days, you may see a marked improvement in the moderate to severe frown
lines between your brows. Lines continue to improve for up to a month, and
results can last for up to 4 months. In clinical trials, nearly 90% of men and
women rated the improvement in their appearance as moderate to better 1 month
after treatment. Results may vary.
How long does BOTOX® last?
Results from treatment with BOTOX® can last for up to 4 months. If you
discontinue treatment, the frown lines between your brows gradually will look
like they did before treatment.
Who should administer BOTOX®?
Any authorized healthcare professional can administer BOTOX®, but dermatologists,
plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat
doctors), or other physicians specializing in cosmetic procedures are generally
more experienced. One of these physicians can help you decide if BOTOX® is right
for you.
Is treatment with BOTOX® painful?
Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injecting, your physician
may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream. The entire
procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. Many people return directly to work or
normal activity following BOTOX® treatment.
Who should not use BOTOX®?
BOTOX® should not be used in the presence of infection at the proposed injection
site(s) and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the
formulation. Patients with neurological disorders such as ALS, Myasthenia Gravis
or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.
Will I experience any side effects?
The most common side effects include headache, respiratory infection, flu
syndrome, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea. Less frequently occurring (<3%)
adverse reactions include pain in the face, erythema at the injection site, and
muscle weakness. These events are thought to be associated with the injection
and occurred within the first week. For more details, see the full Prescribing
Information.
Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?
Although the results are visible, a treatment with BOTOX® will not radically
change your facial appearance or make you look as if you "had work done." The
muscle activity that causes frown lines between the brows is simply reduced, so
you can still frown or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases between
your brows.
What will happen to the frown lines between my brows if I choose
not to continue treatments?
If you do not continue treatments, the moderate to severe frown lines between
your brows will gradually look like they did before treatment.
Is BOTOX® affordable?
When considering your facial aesthetic options, BOTOX® is quite affordable.
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery's 2003 survey,
BOTOX® is one of the least expensive facial aesthetic procedures in the United
States. Like other appearance-related investments, such as hair coloring and
cuts, teeth whitening, and chemical peels, the cost must be weighed relative to
your expectations. Consult your doctor for further information.
BOTOX® is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc.
|
|
|
| Collagen |
|
|
|
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the natural substance found in human skin and all animal tissues. As
aging occurs, cellular proteins hook together or change shape. These changes
keep the proteins from doing their jobs properly resulting in a loss of collagen
and less firmness to body tissues. This process eventually leads to wrinkles.
Thus, one important target of wrinkle prevention and elimination regimen is to
reduce collagen breakdown and increase its supply. This task is achievable but
you have to go about it in the right way. Collagen can be injected directly into
the skin wrinkles to plump them up instantly reducing crow's feet, laugh lines,
lip lines, or to enhance lips. The treatment typically lasts 3 to 6 months and
takes about 10 minutes.
Are there different types of Collagen?
Yes. Some of the most common are Zyplast and Zyderm.
Is it painful?
There is minimal discomfort with the injections and anesthesia is not required.
Are there any risks with Collagen?
Yes. Bovine collagen may have a 1 to 3 % allergic reaction response, and
therefore a pretest is administered. Overall, Collagen has been used over 25
years in the United Sates and Europe with an outstanding safety record.
Should I have Botox or Collagen?
Often times doctors combine the 2 procedures for patients to achieve maximum
results. The 2 forms of therapy are not exclusive of each other and can be done
during the same session.
|
|
|
| Glycolic Peel |
|
|
|
What is a Glycolic Peel?
Glycolic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance (alpha hydroxyl acid)
found in sugar cane, softens and loosens the dry, dead cells that form a barrier
layer on the surface of the skin. During the glycolic peel process, the skin
sheds these dead cells, and a new layer of cells is revealed resulting in a
smoother, moister, and fresher skin surface. A Glycolic Peel stimulates your
body's natural production of collagen and elastin. New skin cells retain more
moisture, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The Glycolic
Peel also loosens built-up oil and dirt in the pores, thus reducing the
development of pimples and blemishes while minimizing the appearance of the
pores.
What skin conditions are improved with a Glycolic Peel?
A Glycolic Peel can improve conditions resulting from acne; sun-damage; melasma,
or other excessive pigmentation problems. Glycolic Peels can improve the feel
and appearance of dry, dull, or lifeless skin.
What should I expect during a Glycolic Peel?
Your skin should first be thoroughly cleansed with a mild cleanser. As the
glycolic substance is applied you may feel a mild tingling or a slight stinging
sensation. The peel will remain on your skin for one to three minutes. It is
then neutralized with the application of a gel that makes the glycolic acid
inactive; your skin is thoroughly rinsed with warm water, and soothing
compresses are applied.
How long does one treatment of a Glycolic Peel take?
Most sessions will last approximately thirty minutes.
What results should I expect after my Glycolic Peel?
You may experience mild redness and light flaking of the treated area. As you
progress through the series of treatments your skin will appear smoother and
softer. Inconsistent skin tones will even out. Fine lines and wrinkles will be
minimized. Your skin will appear healthier with better color and an overall
improvement in its condition.
How many treatments of a Glycolic Peel will I need?
Sometimes a single treatment will give skin a healthier, radiant look. Most
often, four to six applications of glycolic acid at the appropriate strength are
recommended. These treatments are performed in a series of peels every seven to
fourteen days. Three to five single-session follow-up treatments annually are
suggested to maintain the skin's improved condition.
Are there any potential side effects of a Glycolic Peel?
Most patients report no side effects. You may notice a slight redness lasting no
more than a day. Other patients experience only a mild tingling or stinging
sensation. You may also experience slight skin flaking three to four days after
the treatment. This will disappear.
|
|
|
| Microdermabrasion |
|
|
|
What is Microdermabrasion?
How does Microdermabrasion work?
Is Microdermabrasion safe for all skin types?
Why should I have a Microdermabrasion treatment?
How often are Microdermabrasion treatments given?
Does Microdermabrasion hurt?
What are the risks of Microdermabrasion?
Are there any side effects from Microdermabrasion treatments?
What can I expect after my first Microdermabrasion treatment?
Is Microdermabrasion limited to the face?
Will Microdermabrasion get rid of my fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars?
Who should not have Microdermabrasion?
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a quick and convenient procedure that has become very
popular with patients showing the early signs of aging, sun exposure and other
facial imperfections.
How does Microdermabrasion work?
Microdermabrasion is a closed vacuum system delivering aluminum oxide crystals
to the skin. This process exfoliates the thickened epidermis and then vacuums
away the crystals and skin debris to reveal healthier skin.
Is Microdermabrasion safe for all skin types?
Yes, Microdermabrasion is safe for every skin type and skin color.
Why should I have a Microdermabrasion treatment?
Microdermabrasion is generally suggested for:
• Dull, oily or leathery skin texture
• Minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores
• Exfoliating and suctioning clogged pores in acne cases
• Polishing and reducing the appearance of fine lines. (Treatments will not
significantly improve advanced deep wrinkles.)
• Improve mild discoloration from acne scarring
• Reduce mild pigment irregularities
• Enhancing penetration of therapeutic remedies
• Elimination of white and black heads
• Keratosis Pilaris
• Enhances the overall appearance of the skin
How often are Microdermabrasion treatments given?
Microdermabrasion requires a series of treatments. While results are achieved
with a single treatment, it is unrealistic to expect significant results from
just one visit. Cumulative results can be significant with as little as six
treatments repeated one to two weeks apart. Monthly maintenance treatments are
recommended.
Does Microdermabrasion hurt?
Microdermabrasion does not hurt although it may sting a little around the eye
area. The patient normally works up as they go to increase the penetration
level.
What are the risks of Microdermabrasion?
There are not many risks associated with microdermabrasion if you are a healthy
adult, but enough to mention for those of you with skin or medical conditions.
If the medical grade machines are used at high power it carries potential risks
of hyperpigmentation, perforation, bleeding, and infection. Infection can also
be a risk if the machines are not sterile. Many components of these machines are
meant to be sterilized, autoclaved or changed out with a new disposable piece.
Any and all pieces that come into contact with your skin should be able to be
sterilized or changed out.
Are there any side effects from Microdermabrasion treatments?
Since we are only treating the outer layer of skin (stratum corneum), serious
side effects is not an issue. Non-invasive and non-wounding to the skin’s
surface, Microdermabrasion has virtually no discomfort, down time or recovery.
Patients typically experience some redness for about an hour after the procedure
and some tightness of the skin. Two to three days after the procedure, there may
be some minor flaking and skin may be sensitive. Healing time for most is a few
days.
What can I expect after my first Microdermabrasion treatment?
Though Microdermabrasion requires a series of treatments, you can see some
visible improvement in the skin after the first treatment. Some patients will
notice improvement in the skin texture and the skin’s ability to absorb any skin
care regimen that is being applied.
Is Microdermabrasion limited to the face?
No, there are many areas of the body that may benefit from Microdermabrasion.
The most common are the face, neck, chest and hands.
Will Microdermabrasion get rid of my fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars?
In most cases, yes. Although severe scarring will not be lessened in appearance
with solely Microdermabrasion. Sometimes a regimen of Retin-A and or Glycolic
treatments in conjunction with Microdermabrasion will increase your chances the
best results possible.
Who should not have Microdermabrasion?
You should NOT have a microdermabrasion treatment on the affected area if you
have the following:
Undiagnosed lesions
Recent herpes outbreaks
Warts
Active, weeping acne (stages 3-4)
Active Rosacea
Unstable diabetes
Auto-immune system disorders
Some patients hyperpigment post-op. Lower pressures are used on follow-up
treatments
Using Retin A religiously or just had a chemical peel
recently had laser surgery
---------------------------------
For Microdermabrasion treatments within the San Diego area, check out our
San Diego Microdermabrasion
services |
|
|
| Restylane |
|
|
|
What is Restylane?
What does Restylane treat?
How long will my Restylane treatment take?
Will my Restylane treatment hurt?
Are there any side effects to Restylane?
How soon will I see the results from Restylane?
Can Restylane be removed?
How long will Restylane last?
What is Restylane?
Restylane is a safe and natural cosmetic dermal filler that restores volume
and fullness to the skin to correct facial wrinkles and folds, such as
nasolabial folds.
Restylane is the only cosmetic dermal filler made of non-animal-based
hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that already exists in the human body.
The hyaluronic acid in Restylane is a crystal-clear gel called NASHA™ or
Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid. NASHA is completely biocompatible
with human hyaluronic acid.
Restylane maintains its shape using the body's own moisture. The hyaluronic
acid in Restylane is hydrophilic or "water loving." As hyaluronic acid
gradually degrades, each molecule binds to more water and over time, the
same volume can be maintained with less hyaluronic acid. This ability of
hyaluronic acid to bind to water is what helps provide lasting results.
Unlike other hyaluronic acid-based products, such as those made from rooster
combs, only Restylane is non-animal-based. This quality virtually eliminates
any risk of animal-based disease transmission or allergic reaction.
What does Restylane treat?
Restylane is effective for smoothing out wrinkles, plumping up lips, and
shaping facial contours. The most common treatment areas are the frown lines
between the eyebrows, the lines that extend from the bottom of the nose to
the outer corners of the mouth, and the lips. Very deep wrinkles may be
difficult to correct.
How long will my Restylane treatment take?
A typical procedure will last about 30 minutes. But, the length of time
may vary, depending on the level of correction you require.
Will my Restylane treatment hurt?
Restylane is injected directly into your skin. So you may notice a slight
pricking sensation during the injection. You may receive a topical
anesthetic if you need it. You will normally require a local anesthetic
injection before undergoing lip enhancement treatment. After treatment you
may experience mild redness, swelling, tenderness or itching around the
injection site. This is normal and will disappear within a few days.
Are there any side effects to Restylane?
Reactions to Restylane are rare and generally consist of temporary swelling,
tenderness, pain, itching, and discoloration around the injection site.
How soon will I see the results from Restylane?
You'll notice the results immediately.
Can Restylane be removed?
No. But, Restylane dissolves naturally over time.
How long will Restylane last?
How long Restylane lasts depends on several factors including; your skin
structure, lifestyle, and age. Most people choose to repeat Restylane
treatment about a year after wrinkle treatment and within 6 months after lip
enhancement.
|
|
|
|
|
