Hyperhydrosis

Underarm Sweating

Severe underarm sweating is a medical condition known as severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis, which involves overactive sweat glands. Sweat is your body’s temperature regulator. In severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis, sweating significantly exceeds the body’s normal requirements for cooling.

For more information about severe underarm sweating, visit the International Hyperhidrosis Society Web site at www.SweatHelp.org.

Botox Treatment

BOTOX® is FDA-approved for severe underarm sweating that is inadequately managed with topical agents. BOTOX® helps control this condition by temporarily blocking the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. When the sweat glands don’t receive chemical signals, the severe sweating stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a disorder characterized by excessive uncontrollable sweating in excess of the amount required to regulate body temperature. It is estimated that 8.5 million people in the United States suffer from some form of hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis has no discernible cause and may involve the axillae (armpits), palms (hands), soles (feet), face, and groin. Secondary hyperhidrosis has an underlying cause such as an endocrine disorder, secretory tumors, sympathetic nervous system disorder, or neurological/psychiatric disorders. You should talk to your doctor to determine if there is an underlying cause for your condition.

What is AXILLARY hyperhidrosis?

Axilla is an anatomy term that refers to the underarm or armpit area. Axillary hyperhidrosis refers to excessive underarm sweating. The exact cause of the condition is disputed. Some experts feel it has to do with the size of the sweat glands, some feel it is related to over-activity of the sweat glands and others feel it is stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system.

What is Axillary Bromhidrosis?

Axillary bromidrosis (also called bromhidrosis) is the secretion of foul-smelling sweat and is defined as the combination of hyperhidrosis and osmidrosis. Axillary osmidrosis is a disorder characterized by chronic offensive armpit odor. Like hyperhidrosis, the exact pathophysiology of axillary osmidrosis is also disputed.

What is the VASER System?

The VASER System is an advanced ultrasonic technology that is commonly used in body contouring procedures to selectively remove unwanted body fat.  When a special technique is applied in the underarm area, the VASER System can be used to treat the superficial layer of skin where the sweat glands are located.

How does the VASER treatment work?

First, the underarm area is filled with a special saline solution that helps numb the site and shrink the blood vessels (to minimize blood loss and reduce bruising). This solution wets and fills the area to be treated, making it easier to break up tissue with the VASER System’s ultrasonic energy. Then a small probe transmits sound energy (similar to that used for cataract removal from the eye) to break up fatty tissue on contact. With the application of a specialized technique, the ultrasonic energy is concentrated on the sweat glands in the armpit while preserving other important tissues.  Finally, the liquefied fat and sweat glands are removed through a gentle suction process designed to minimize damage to surrounding tissues.

Does the VASER treatment help with underarm odor too?

Yes, patients who have had the procedure have reported improvement with their underarm odor problem. Some patients have only an odor problem, some patients have only a sweating problem and some patients have a problem with both odor and sweating. All types of patients have reported an improvement after the VASER treatment.

Will it make me too dry?

It is nearly impossible to eliminate all of the sweat glands under the arms (there are thousands), but the VASER treatment will eliminate the majority resulting in a more “normal” pattern of sweat rather than an excessive pattern of sweat.

Will the VASER treatment hurt?

During the procedure you will be given local anesthesia (awake anesthesia).  If you choose to have the numbing shot, you will feel a small pinch from the needle and some pressure from the treatment. If you feel any discomfort, let your doctor know so adjustments can be made.

Will I be in a lot of pain after the procedure?

Some people are sore for about three days and require Tylenol or prescription pain medication, while others do not require any pain medication at all. Be sure to tell your doctor if you experience any discomfort.

Silk Touch Depigmentation Treatment

The Power Peel

Staining

Actinic skin ageing, a consequence of systematic exposure to the sun, staining due to excessive pigmentation and, in general, imperfections of a melanin origin, are common problems of our time. Only via an effective treatment, which, above all, acts on the melanogenisis process, is it possible to find a solution, enabling affected peiole to eliminate stains, recover the smoothness of their skin and return it to its former shininess.

The Cosmelan Treatment

The Cosmelan depigmentation treatment involves a very versatile dynamic process, which is adaptable to each user’s requirements. Its main action is the elimination of melanic stains on the face (melasma and cloasma)

Properties and Advantages

The Cosmelan depigmentation treatment offers a series of major advantages and benefits, when compared with other types of depigmentation in use.

• It is highly effective, on all types of melasmas.
• It can be carried out at any time of the year.
• It is compatible with all skin types.
• It enables one to sin in the sun without it the stain reappearing.
• It is completely safe

Results

The skin begins to improve a week after starting of the treatment. In 99% of cases, the disappearance of the stain improves by 95%.

Maintenance phase with Cosmelan 2 cream

If you are in the maintenance phase with Cosmelan 2 cream (depigmentation cream with an anti-melanocyte and anti-melanic action), read the following instructions carefully:

MODE OF USE:

The recommended method of application is as follows:

3x a day for the first week
2x a day for the second week
Once a day as of the third week

If the skin becomes red (similar to when one has been exposed to the sun for too long), we sugges mixing Cosmelan 2 with the Hydra-vital Factor mesoestetic cream and continuing its application as normal.

BOTOX® Cosmetic

Silk Touch Medspa has recently been named the ONLY Platinum PLUS  BOTOX provider in Boise and all of Southern Idaho.

Silk Touch Medspa recently named the ONLY Platinum Plus BOTOX provider in Boise and Southern Idaho

Dr. Kerr and his highly trained nurse injector use skill and artistry in delivering BOTOX and Juvederm injectables to our patients.  Dr. Kerr is the leader in the area and trains doctors in his unique approach.  He delivers both BOTOX and Juvederm with skill, artistry, and with minimal discomfort.Our patients look natural and rested.

It took me a year before I got up the nerve to try Botox for my frown lines. I am a thinker and when I think I frown so these lines have been burrowed in for a lifetime. Botox relaxed the lines. It did not erase the lines, but it definitely softened them to make them less noticeable. I will be a fan of this procedure for years to come. -Fae Gilkey

BOTOX® Cosmetic is currently used by millions of patients.  It is a simple, FDA approved non-surgical treatment   that can temporarily smooth moderate to severe lines and wrinkles.  Many wrinkles are actually creases that have been worn into the skin by making the same expression thousands of times. Botox® Cosmetic injections smooth wrinkles by safely and selectively blocking the muscle from contracting. As a result, the muscle relaxes and the wrinkles gradually soften and disappear.

Botox® Cosmetic has been researched and administered in the medical field for over twenty years. Approved for cosmetic use by the FDA in April 2002 it is used in minute quantities. Botox® Cosmetic is a sterile, purified protein which reduces the activity of the muscles that cause frown lines and crow’s feet to form over time. Botox® Cosmetic is also used for >>treatment of excessive sweating, migraine headaches and neurological disorders.

Deep frown lines can virtually disappear, as well as crows feet, forehead wrinkles and smokers lines above the lip. Below is an example of crows feet reduction two weeks after the treatment.

BOTOX® Cosmetics FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Botox do?

“Botulium Toxin” is a nerve impulse blocker. It is used to cosmetically freeze the muscles that cause unwanted wrinkles in your face giving you a younger more relaxed appearance. Deep frown lines can virtually disappear, as well as crows feet, forehead wrinkles, and smoker’s lines above the lip.

Is Botox safe?

BOTOX® Cosmetics has been recognized by the American Academy of Neurology, American Academy of Ophthalmology, and National Institutes of Health, as a safe and effective treatment. Over 10 years of clinical experience involving thousands of patients is a testimony to the potential benefits of this treatment.

How long does Botox last?

BOTOX® Cosmetics lasts 3-6 months with the first treatment and generally longer with subsequent treatments. It is important to understand that BOTOX® Cosmetics is an effective, ongoing treatment for the relief of symptoms only—it is not a cure. And, because every patient is different, the degree of relief will vary from person to person.

Who does the treatment?

Dr. Brian Kerr.

Is Botox painful?

A very small needle is used with minimal discomfort experienced by most clients. No anesthesia is necessary.

Are there any side effects?

BOTOX® Cosmetics is generally well tolerated by patients. Side effects are rare and usually transient in nature.

How long does it take to work?

Effects can be seen as early as 48 hours and can take up to two weeks for the treatment to take full effect.

How long does the treatment take?

One half hour is sufficient to fill out a patient evaluation form and for treatment to be given . Clients may go home immediately following treatment.

After care?

Specific instructions will be reviewed at the time of treatment. Patients are asked NOT to massage the site, to remain upright, and to exercise the targeted muscles as much as possible in the 3-4 hours after treatment. This will give the best results.

How much does it cost?

Most treatments cost from $200-350 per site.

Injectables “Fillers”

Juvederm, Radiesse, Restylane and Fat Transfer

More and more people who are interested in preserving their youthful appearance are opting for non-invasive preventative measures and mini-procedures before the damage is advanced.

Taking advantage of these treatments now may mean that you’ll look more like 35 when approaching that dreaded 50 year mark.  Also, we know that utilizing these treatments can postpone face-lifts while peers may have had to have 2-3 facelifts to achieve the same result.

Smooth away the telltale lines and wrinkles that make you look older than you feel. Facial wrinkles and creases are part of the aging process and begin to appear as the underlying collagen and elastin fibers break down. While this breakdown is part of the natural aging process, it can also result from excessive squinting, frowning or smiling.

Subtle lip enhancement with juvederm by Dr. Kerr

JUVÉDERM® - Injectable Gel is among the most popular of all dermal fillers, particularly for smoothing out deep nasolabial creases – the “parentheses” that become etched around the corners of the mouth from smiling. JUVÉDERM is a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid – a naturally occurring substance in the body – which adds volume and hydration to the skin. Since it is not animal derived, it requires no pre-testing, and does not cause the allergic reactions associated with animal products. Results from JUVÉDERM can last 9 months or more.

Restylane® is another hyaluronic acid product which is often used to augment the lips and to smooth wrinkles or acne scars. Hyaluronic acid is biocompatible and biodegradable, which means it is safe for the body and will be naturally broken down and eliminated over time. Results from Restylane typically last approximately 6 months.

Radiesse is one of the longest-lasting injectable implants. Because of it’s components and duration, Radiesse is more aptly referred to as an implant rather than a filler. It is used for soft tissue augmentation in the correction of deep facial folds and creases and restoration of volume loss in hollow facial areas.

Because it has lengthy duration and is easily shaped it is perfect injectable product for use in the nose and cheek area. An effective cheek augmentation implant-alternative, when injected orally, the results are smooth without typical bruising.

The tiny microspheres provide a scaffolding into which the body’s own tissue can grow and maintain the implant in place.

Fat Transfer- Dr. Kerr specializes in fat transfer using the bodies own fat to restore the skin to a more youthful appearance.  Click here for more info.

CONDITION TREATED: Frown lines in the forehead, furrows between the cheeks and nose, indentations or acne scars, crow’s feet around the eyes and an absence of fullness to the lips.

THE REMEDY: A dermal filler is injected into the dermis or second layer of skin.

RESULTS: The filler temporarily plumps up or fills in the wrinkles, scars, lips or contour irregularities.

EFFECTIVE SERIES OF TREATMENTS CONSIST OF: One treatment.

TREATMENT INTERVAL: 6 months to more than a year depending on the filler.  Fat Transfer can last up to 6 years.

TREATMENT TIME: 30 to 60 minutes.

RECOVERY TIME: Some swelling and redness at the treatment site may occur. This generally fades in a matter of hours.

www.juvederm.com

www.radiesseusa.com

www.restylane.com

Rosacea

Managing Embarrassing Facial Flushing & Redness

Rosacea (pronounced roh-ZAY-sha), is a common inflammatory skin condition that usually only affects the face and eyes. Characterized by redness, pimples, and broken blood vessels, Rosacea is more common in fair-skinned people. It is often mistaken for adult acne.

Common Rosacea Symptoms: Rosacea causes a range of symptoms that may include:

• Redness,
• Uncontrollable blushing
• Swelling
• Visible blood vessels
• Bumps or pimple-like blemishes
• Skin thickening and enlargement of the nose (mostly in men)

People who have Rosacea usually experience periods of flare-ups and periods of remission (the decrease or disappearance of symptoms). There is often a “butterfly” pattern that is detectable on the face. Although Rosacea is not life threatening, even mild symptoms can have a negative effect on quality of life. In recent surveys by the National Rosacea Society, nearly 70% of Rosacea patients said this condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem, and 41% said it had caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements.

There is no cure, but medical care is available to treat this inflammatory disorder, and help you get your life back to normal.. More difficult Acne Rosacea may be treated through PhotoDynamic Therapy

What causes Rosacea?

The cause of Rosacea is unknown. An estimated 14 million people in the US have Rosacea. Proper treatment by a caring dermatologist will help you manage your Rosacea. Knowing your Rosacea “triggers” and proper skin care goes a long way toward having skin that is calmer and less reactive.

Ocular (Eye) Rosacea

About 50% of Rosacea suffers have eye symptoms which may include:

• redness
• burning
• tearing
• inflamed eyelids
• sensation of a foreign object in the eye

Medical Management of Rosacea

There are a multitude of Rosacea “triggers”. From food to stress, it is integral to your treatment success to learn your triggers and do what you can to avoid them.

Treatment combinations may include oral and topical medications, IPL Photo Rejuvenation treatments and Isolaz Acne Therapy treatment.

Most Rosacea patients need combination therapies for the most effective results. New oral medications are now available which are proving to be very helpful. Rosacea which is left untreated can cause irreversible skin thickening and disfigurement.

Basic Rosacea Treatment:

• Topical antibiotic treatment.
• Oral or topical retinoid therapy
• Azelaic acid or Metrogel
• Oral Rosacea medication (Oracea)
• Sunscreen – Important!

Please visit www.rosacea.org for more info.

Medical Microdermabrasion

This enhanced treatment begins with deep cleansing and gentle extractions if needed.  The non- invasive comfortable treatment uses micro-crystals to painlessly remove the surface layer of skin to leave it softer, smoother and fresher looking skin.

Medical Microdermabrasion improves:

• Clogged pores including blackheads & whiteheads.
• Large Pores
• Rough skin texture
• Production and growth of healthy new cells
• Collagen
• Uneven skin color
• Sun & Age spots
• Dull or dry patches.
• Acne and Acne Scarring
• Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Q&A: How Does It Work?

Microdermabrasion works in two ways. It works by gently exfoliating or removing the outside layers (stratum corneum) of the skin. The abrasive action of the wand gently removes the outer surface layers, allowing smoother, fresher skin to be apparent. The second way is that the vacuum action helps to stimulate microcirculation and lymphatic flow, increasing the blood supply that provides nutrients needed for skin regeneration. This helps accelerate the skins repair process and stimulates the formation of new collagen and elastin thereby improving skin texture and elasticity.

Recommended Treatment: 4-6 treatments every 2 weeks. May be alternated with chemical peels in between microdermabrasion treatments.

Treatment Time: 30 to 60 minutes.

Recovery Time: Some swelling and redness at the treatment site may occur.  This generally fades in a matter of hours.

Medical Microdermabrasion FAQ

How Does Microdermabrasion Work?

Microdermabrasion works in two ways. It works by gently exfoliating or removing the outside layers (stratum corneum) of the skin. The abrasive action of the wand gently removes the outer surface layers, allowing smoother, fresher skin to be apparent. The second way is that the vacuum action helps to stimulate microcirculation and lymphatic flow, increasing the blood supply that provides nutrients needed for skin regeneration. This helps accelerate the skins repair process and stimulates the formation of new collagen and elastin thereby improving skin texture and elasticity.

Who is a good candidate?

Microdermabrasion is good for people who have superficial acne scars, brown sun spots, sun damage, large pores, and fine wrinkles.

How does it work?

Minute aluminum oxide crystals are delivered in a controlled fashion to the top layer of the skin. The crystals are then vacuumed off, taking away dead skin cells. Some studies report that there is an increased production of collagen in the skin that helps the skin look youthful again. as well helping the face look plump and youthful.

Is Microdermabrasion safe?

Yes. It a non-invasive treatment, meaning that we are only dealing with the stratum corneum, the very top most layers of the skin.

What are the results of Microdermabrasion?

The treatment affects the epidermis, causing sloughing and stimulating cell production at the basal cell layer, causing a faster cell turnover time.

How does Microdermabrasion compare to laser skin resurfacing?

It is a less aggressive approach. Laser skin resurfacing has many side effects: a long healing time (2-6 months), scarring, and hypo- or hyperpigmentation of the skin.

How many treatments do I need?

4-6 treatments are recommended. After the first treatment, your skin feels smoother, but by the 4th treatment, patient’s skin looks pink and healthy and friends are noticing a difference. Maintenance treatments are recommended every 2 to 3 months after a series.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t have micro?

Anyone with keloids, active facial herpes, anyone that has been on Accutane in the past 6 months and anyone that has had plastic surgery in the last year.

Is it only on the face?

No, it can be used anywhere on the body, where smoother, softer skin is desired.

Does Microdermabrasion hurt?

It has been described as feeling like “a cat licking you”. It is mildly uncomfortable, but most people are surprised by their comfort level.

How long does it take?

30-40 minutes. Patients can walk out and return to their everyday routine.

What are the side effects?

They’re minimal. After treatment, patients are pink. We ask them to wear sunscreen and avoid makeup for a day.

What age do you need to be?

Any age. We see younger clients for acne, and older clients for sun damage.

Is it for men too?

Of course. Men enjoy keeping a youthful appearance as well as women. It is great for smoothing out the skin.

Do I need to be using home skin care products?

You don’t have to. Microdermabrasion is effective without home care, but we highly recommend it as you will see better results faster.

Visia™ Skin Analysis & Consultation

VISIA™ Digital Skin Analysis is an exciting technological innovation that uses a multi-spectral imaging system to identify problem areas of your complexion, allowing for a customized skin treatment program that specifically targets these areas.
The VISIA Digital Skin Analysis is the first diagnostic tool to provide clinical measurement of surface and subsurface epidermal irregularities and pigment conditions. VISIA’s photographic technology captures a clear, multi-dimensional image of select facial areas, while examining the severity of various age-related conditions such as:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Hyperpigmentation (age/dark spots)
• Enlarged pores
• Skin tone evenness (color variation)
• Porphyrins (evidence of bacterial growth)
• Sun damage (UV spots)

At Silk Touch Medspa, we recommend that a Digital Skin Analysis be performed during your initial one-on-one Skin Evaluation, as the results of the analysis provide the framework for creating a personalized facial rejuvenation programs that are designed to obtain optimal improvement in your skin color and texture. In some cases, an additional analysis may be performed following a recommended treatment program.

Once your VISIA imaging session is complete, our medical esthetician will provide you a detailed complexion report that focuses on specific problem areas, compares your results with others your age, and included treatment recommendations specifically for your complexion.

Smartlipo Laser Assisted Liposuction

Take off what dieting and exercise won’t…

Silk Touch MedSpa introduced Smartlipo in the Fall of 2008 to Eagle, Idaho. Dr. Brian Kerr was also the first doctor to combine Smartlipo with Vaser technology in the Boise Area. Combination treatments, developed by Silk Touch Medspa, have provided exceptional results for our patients in need of this type of procedure.

Smartlipo™ is an innovative new procedure for removing excess body fat and firming loose skin. This is a gentle procedure that can be done in just a couple of hours. There is minimal pain, a quick recovery time and visible results almost immediately. Approved by the FDA in the fall of 2006, Smartlipo has proven to be one of the safest cosmetic procedures. Complications are extremely rare.

SmartLipo and Vaser Before and After Photos

>>Click here: SmartLipo Before and After Photos

How Does SmartLipo Work?

SmartLipo™  (Smart Lipo) uses a paperclip—thin laser fiber which is inserted into a very tiny incision. The fat is melted by the laser in such a way that the body doesn’t experience trauma that’s associated with traditional liposuction. In a traditional liposuction procedure, the patient is put under, opened up and solid chunks of fat are sucked out. Local anesthesia is used in this procedure, and the client walks out in an hour or two. Several areas of the body may be treated at one time. Clients are back on their feet within a day or two. Many may go back to work the next day.

Laser lipo is comparable in price to traditional liposuction.

SmartLipo Benefits

• Promotes tissue tightening through tissue coagulation
• Performed under local anesthesia
• Less bleeding and trauma
• Quick recovery
• Small instrumentation
• Small incision
• Direct visualization of treatment area
• Dramatic results

SmartLipo Testimonials