Dr. Kerr’s Healthy Advice, Boise

See Dr. Kerr’s “Healthy Advice” in Boise’s Thursday’s Idaho Statesman every other week.

Q: I’m trying to get rid of some scars? Does Mederma work?

A: Scars form on the skin through a three-stage process that can last up to two years after an injury. It is widely recognized that wounds heal best under moist conditions—the skin fills in faster and scars are less visible. A study done in 2001 showed that Mederma, the over the counter scar healing product worked no better than petroleum jelly. Mederma uses onion extract which has not been proven to improve the appearance of scars on humans any more than petroleum jelly. My advice would be to cover the injury and keep it moist. I often use bacitracin which is an antibacterial product that also is moisturizing. Older scars can be treated with lasers like the Affirm laser,  CO2 fractional lasers, chemical peels and microdermabrasion.

Q: I have little red dots on my chest, legs and other areas on my body. How can I remove them?

A: These are most likely Cherry Angiomas which are tiny clusters of dilated capillaries on the surface of the skin. When they first occur, cherry angiomas are about the size of a pinhead and do not protrude above the surface of the skin. Larger angiomas can bleed profusely when they are injured so it is not advised to puncture them to try to remove them yourself. The latest cool tool on the scene is the CryoProbe, an exciting new cryosurgery device that allows the affected area to be frozen using liquid nitrogen with pin point accuracy.  Your physician can remove unsightly lesions or moles quickly, painlessly and with minimal trauma to the skin.  For more information: www.boiselipo.blogspot.com

Q: My eyebrows are thin. Is there a product I can use on my brows to regrow them?

A: A little Men’s Rogain 5 percent on the end of a Q-tip always work to grow hair where it wasn’t before. Careful to not get carried away with Rogain as some of the side effects like facial hair growth may become a problem. A recent off-label approach is to use Latisse eyelash enhancement by Allergan to thicken the brows. Some of my clients claim it is better than using Rogain. Remember Latisse has been proven to lengthen, darken and thicken lashes…so your brows may become a bit darker after a regimen or two.

The following two excerpts were published in the Idaho Statesman on 5/12/08 by Dr. Kerr.

1.  Q:  What is the difference between Smartlipo and Lipodissolve?

A:  Lipo-dissolve is being marketed as an innovative alternative to liposuction.  It involves a series of medicated injections which dissolve localized areas of fat.  These injections are NOT FDA approved and have been banned in several countries.

SmartLipo is a fairly new FDA approved procedure.  Smartlipo is the first laser system designed for Laser Body Sculpting and for the disruption of fat cells.  The main difference between Smartlipo and regular liposuction is that it MELTS fat and TIGHTENS the skin.  There is minimal bleeding & bruising and patients may return to regular activities in 1-2 days.  Continued in 2 weeks…..

2.      Smartlipo vs. Lipo-dissolve continued from 2 weeks ago.

Recently there have been reports of adverse side effects of lipo-dissolve.  For more information go to the following website: http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=4634096 Smartlipo melts fat and TIGHTENS skin.  The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and clients leave just a few hours later, returning to regular activities in 1-2 days.  Visit our website for more information, before and after pictures and video clips.

Q: What can I do to treat old acne scars?

A: Co2 Fractional resurfacing lasers are unparalleled for improving sun-damaged skin because they remove the epidermis and cause significant changes in the dermis and dermal collagen, prompting the slow regrowth of firmer, healthier skin. A little known fact is that it is now considered the best therapy to date to significantly fade pigmented scars, acne scars, and stretch marks (reddish ones respond best, but also diminishes purple ones). Recent research from the journal Lasers in Surgery and Medicine showed that two to three treatments with the fractional Co2 laser reduced the depth of acne scars–which are notoriously difficult to treat–by 43 to 80 percent. That’s quite an improvement.

Q: Do home Laser Hair Removal (LHR) treatments work?

A: There is a lot of hype out there. Home lasers probably work to a degree, but they are not as powerful as those in doctor’s offices. A recent article stated that 44% of the hair had not returned three months after the final session with a home LHR device. Wait long enough and hair will come back! Hair can stay dormant for 9-12 months. This is no indication that they are effective long term. LHR is considered a prescriptive treatment in the State of Idaho. Treatments should be physician supervised and performed by experienced technicians.

Q: What about LED lights for home use? Can they increase collagen?

A: The short of it is that no home LED (Red light or Blue light) system can boast published results showing precisely how long it takes to see improvements or what sort of payoff one can expect. The home versions can probably deliver results given enough time. The LEDs at doctor’s offices are much stronger. Professional systems use thousands of LED lights as opposed to a few dozen in home version. Red and Infrared LEDs have been shown to raise collagen levels in the skin by 36% over eight treatments and increase elasticity by 16%. For the quickest and most effective results, combine topical retinoid such as Retinol or Renova with LED therapy at your doctor’s office.  An added benefit of LED Light Therapy is that it is also very effective in eliminating acne.

Q: Does the new prescription called Latisse turn your eyes a different color?

A: Latisse has worked on hundreds of my clients with virtually no side effects. Allergan included almost 300 patients in the company’s clinical trials. The trials included high standards for safety and efficacy. Using Latisse on the base of the lashes in unlikely to cause any discoloration of the irises because it is only about 5 percent of the dose that glaucoma patients apply. Some of my patients have reported a darkening of the eyelid where the product is applied, but this can easily be covered by makeup. Overall, my patients are highly satisfied with this product.

Q: I have an ugly scar on my abdomen and I wanted to do Smartlipo laser assisted liposuction. Will this make this scar look better or worse?

A: In my experience, Smartlipo can be a very effective treatment in improving the appearance of scars.  Often scars can become attached to the underlying tissue.  If we gain weight, the scar can become even more retracted as fat surrounds it.  Smartlipo reduces the surrounding fat and can often untether the scar, creating a smoother appearance. Sometimes the improvement can be quite dramatic.  Go to my blog: www.boiselipo.blogspot.com to a before/after photo of this procedure and how it can improve the appearance of scars.

Q: There is a lot of advertising about a product called Latisse. It is supposed to grow your eyelashes. Is it true or is this just hype?

A: Yes, it really is true. The theory is that Latisse somehow keeps lashes in their growth phase.  Latisse is the first product that has been approved for eyelash growth by the FDA. Allergan, the company that makes BOTOX, has a patent on the product and clinical studies were performed to suppor t the claims. Like liquid eyeliner, the product is painted on next to the lash line. A doctor must prescribe the product and most women will notice a difference in 8 weeks. Our staff all noticed a tremendous improvement in the length, thickness and darkness of their lashes in just 2 weeks.

Q:  Can you exfoliate too much?

A:  Many women inadvertently give themselves problem skin by exfoliating too hard and too often.  You risk drying out your skin and stripping off the top layer.  When your skin is robbed of needed moisture, it responds as if it were an injury and produces more oil which often results in acne.  Over exfoliating can also break blood vessels and create problems like rosacea.  Beware of home microdermabrasion products!  To avoid over exfoliation use a face scrub or sponge only once or twice a week—or not at all, if you’re using retinoids or glycolic acids.  Peels and microdermabrasion can be used every 2-3 weeks until old dull skin is eliminated, uncovering newer, younger and brighter looking skin beneath.  Good medical-grade skin care products are best to maintain the effect.

Q: Is Dysport better than BOTOX?  Is it safe?

A:  A lot of my clients have asked about this product.  It is a product similar to Botox and it relaxes muscle movement.  BOTOX is a known drug with a long safety record and Dysport is the new guy on the block with its own reputation to make.  Data shows that they have comparable efficacy, but Dysport can migrate to a larger area.  The good…you can cover larger areas with one injection…the bad…it may be that you have a greater risk of getting the toxin where you don’t want it.  Dysport is FDA approved, but it may not be quite as safe because injectors do not  have as much experience with the new drug. Go to my blog for more information on this subject:  www.boiselipo.blogspot.com

Q:  What is the Affirm laser and what does it do?

A:  The Affirm deep contouring laser is effective for treating wrinkles, redness and age spots. Those are the superficial aspects of the treatment that are often seen very quickly after the first or second treatment.  The biggest advantage to the Affirm treatments is the deep coagulation of tissue that promotes collagen production at a deeper level to help tighten skin.  Scars are tremendously improved as are stretch marks and loose skin.  3 to 6 treatments are needed. Though the treatments are considered less painful than Fraxel or
Thermage, numbing cream can help to make the treatment much more pleasant.  01.09.10

Q:  Is using a weight loss journal necessary to help a person lose weight?

A:  I am encouraging all of my clients who have done Smartlipo laser-assisted liposuction , and the non-surgical Zerona slimming laser to keep a journal of the food they eat.  A recently released study that tracked middle-aged men and women for six months showed that those who wrote down what they ate every day lost twice as much weight as those who didn’t.  The mere act of tracking food intake can be extremely powerful.  01.03.10

Q:  What is all the hype about Latisse, the lash growing product that Brooke Shields advertises.  Does it really work?

A:  I can actually answer this question with an emphatic yes!  Walk into our office and every one of our staff has seen substantial thickening, darkening and lengthening of their lashes.  It is a prescription–so you can only get it from doctor’s offices.  This is one of those treatments out there that really does live up to the hype.  There isn’t a lady out there that wouldn’t love to have this product as a gift….so it’s a great idea for men who are always looking for something special to buy for that special someone. 10.29.2009

Q: Which is better laser lipo (Smarlipo) or Vaser?

A: Smartlipo really is best for smaller areas of fat. I like the Vaser (Ultrasonic-assisted liposuction) for larger more fibrous areas. I generally use both tools during each procedure to achieve the best results. New studies have now proven that Vaser tightens the skin when compared with traditional liposuction. Up until recently only Smartlipo was making that claim. Laser-assisted liposuction melts fat and tightens the skin. A definite improvement to traditional liposuction. To read more about Vaser and its skin tightening effects go to my blog: www.boiselipo.blogspot.com 11.30.2009

Q:  Is there a way I can get rid of belly fat without surgery?

A:  The short answer is…the cheapest way to keep belly fat at bay is to lift weights.  A study from the National Institutes of Health showed that overweight and obese women who lifted weights just twice a week saw a smaller increase in intra-abdominal fat.  To address the fat just below the sure of the skin…we have very effective treatments available.  Some of those treatments are very new and exciting.  The new Zerona slimming laser removes excess fat without any surgery at all.  The Zerona treatment creates a hole in the membrane of the fat cell, liquefies the fat, and leaks the fat out into the body where it can be eliminated through normal processes.  There is no downtime and up to 6-9 inches can be lost following a series of 6 treatments.  Learn more… 11.23.2009

Q: I’ve been vigilant about keeping my face youthful looking. What can I do for my neglected upper chest and hands?

A: Lasers and dermal fillers are going to be the fastest options if you are playing catch up. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments are commonly used on the face but can erase sun damage on the chest and hands as well. The newest CO2 fractional lasers are wonderful tools to improve skin texture, tightness and pigmentation issues. The result is smoother more radiant skin with additional collagen production that continues for 3 to 6 months afterwards. Chemical peels can also lighten sun damage and erase lines and wrinkles. Many people use facial creams and Retin-A on their faces but completely forget about their neckline and their hands! Start using those products now. In addition, Fat Transfer and or dermal fillers can create a dramatic rejuvenation effect in hands that appear bony or have unsightly vessels.  11.15.2009

Q:  Can chronic stress age you?

A:  Chronic stress makes your arteries constrict.  It makes our blood clot faster.  It suppresses the immune response.  It shortens your telomeres, the DNA protein complexes that may effect how long you live.  If you feel stress, you probably are stressed.  It’s not just what happens to us, but more importantly, how we react to and process situations that determines how our bodies respond to stress.  Recent studies show that yoga and meditation along with moderate exercise and improved nutrition increases telomeres, an enzyme that lengthens telomeres.  This improves their activity and their longevity.  Striving to reduce and manage stress more effectively can  help you live a longer and happier life, but also has the added perk of giving you a more youthful appearance.  10.29.2009

Q:  What do I do about my oily skin?

A:  Most cases of oily skin can be solved with the right combination of over-the-counter treatments and cosmetics.  If a patient does not see improvement after three to four weeks, I usually prescribe a topical retinoid such as Retin-A, which decreases oil production in the sebaceous glands.  An oral medication such as Spironolactone will reduce oiliness and improve skin texture.  A series of Isolaz treatment which uses pneumatic suction and Intense Pulsed Light to decrease oil production.  LED Blue Light treatments can also be very effective when treating oily skin associated with acne.  9.15.09

Q: I have some areas of fat on my body that just won’t go away no matter how much I diet and exercise! Loose skin is also a problem after having several babies. Can you help?

A: In the past, a tummy tuck would be your only solution and still can be a very good solution. Smartlipo™ is a new innovative body sculpting procedure which uses a laser to melt fat AND tighten the skin. The best candidates are those who are in relatively good shape but have spot areas that just won’t diminish with diet and exercise. Smartlipo™ is performed under local anesthesia and has been proven to be very safe. Complications are rare and recovery time is very rapid. Go to www.realself.com for more information.

Previous Questions & Answers

1. How effective is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
2. I want to get Laser Hair Removal on my back….is it painful?
3. What causes wrinkles?
4. Are dermal fillers safe?
5. What is Photodynamic Acne Treatment?
6. I’ve heard Radiesse® is a Wrinkle Filler that lasts longer. Is that true?
7. Are there any long term side effects with Dermal Filler injections?
8. What is LED light therapy?
9. My hands look weathered. What can I do to improve their appearance?
10. What areas of the face are most commonly treated with wrinkle fillers?
11. Can BOTOX® treat excessive sweating?
12. What’s the difference between an AHA and a BHA chemical peel?
13. What is Sculptra™?
14. My friend had freckles all over her face and neck and now they’ve disappeared. She said she’d had an IPL treatment. What is that?
15. Can BOTOX® treat Migraine Headaches?
16. Do I need an allergy skin test before getting an injectable filler?
17. Doesn’t most sun damage occur before age 18?
18. What is PrevageMD?
19. What is hylauronic acid?
20. What skin care products can I use to help give my skin a healthy glow?Do I need to take time off from work to recuperate after Collagen Replacement Therapy?
21. What’s the difference between Idebenone and Idebenol?
22. What are collagen dermal (skin) fillers?
23. My eyelids are starting to droop, but I’m not quite ready for surgery. Is there anything I can do?
24. What is the best makeup to use to avoid acne breakouts?
25. What is the best time of year to do Laser Hair Removal (LHR)?
26. I have bumps and ingrown areas in areas where I shave. Is there a treatment?
27. I have very dark circles under my eyes. Is there anything I can do besides using makeup to conceal them?
28. How do over the counter microdermabrasion products compare to the clinical procedure?
29. My skin is so damaged from sunbathing in my youth. What can I do?

1. How effective is BOTOX® Cosmetic?

Results are dramatic and visible within about 48 hours on average. In clinical trials, nearly 90% of the men and women surveyed expressed satisfaction in the improvement of the treated area. For many, BOTOX® Cosmetic virtually “erases” lines that become more apparent as we age. Unlike surgery, BOTOX® Cosmetic is fast, simple, and minimally invasive, with no downtime or recovery. Recommended dosages should be given to achieve the desired result. There were over 3 million treatments administered in 2005 safely and effectively. Visit with your physician to see if BOTOX® Cosmetic is right for you.

2. I want to get Laser Hair Removal on my back….is it painful?

The good news…Laser Hair Removal (LHR) is effective. The bad news… it can be pretty uncomfortable for some patients depending on the area being treated. Recently, new LHR technology has become available, making this treatment more comfortable. The Aesthera PPx laser uses a combination of pneumatic energy (pressure) and broadband light. Clinically proven effective, these light based treatments are 5x more efficient in the delivery of energy to unwanted hair while protecting the skin. The PPx is 4x faster than traditional lasers making treatments quick and pain free.

3. What causes wrinkles?

Our skin’s surface appearance is directly related to the structure underneath. Collagen provides structure to our skin, while hylauronic acid provides skin volume. Wrinkles form when the natural collagen and hylauronic acid in our skin diminish with aging. Other factors in wrinkle formation include exposure to the sun, smoking, disease, heredity and lifestyle.

Dermal Fillers such as CosmoPlast® and Restylane® are fillers that are injected just below the surface of the skin to replenish collagen and hylauronic acid. These act to fill lines, wrinkles and scars from the inside out, restoring a smoother, more youthful appearance.

4. Are dermal fillers safe?

The most common dermal fillers are FDA approved and have undergone rigorous testing in order to provide a safe product for the public. Millions of injections are given each year with few side effects. Common side effects may include: mild swelling, redness and temporary bruising. Achieving a satisfactory result is highly dependent on the skill, artistic ability, and experience of the physician administering the treatment. Ask your doctor what his experience and training are in this area. The most common products used today are gradually absorbed by the body over 3-6 months as the skin returns to its original state.

5. What is Photodynamic Acne Treatment?

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a new procedure that treats resistant, hard-to-treat active acne as well as older acne scars. During the procedure, a clear, painless solution called Levulan® is applied to the skin, making the targeted acne cells more sensitive to light. LED Blue Light or IPL Laser light are commonly used to activate the solution. Prior to (PDT), the best available treatment option for resistant acne was Accutane®, which has many side effects including birth defects, depression and liver abnormalities. Photodynamic Acne Treatment provides a viable alternative.

6. I’ve heard Radiesse® is a Wrinkle Filler that lasts longer. Is that true?

Radiesse™ is the newest non-surgical facial contouring filler that delivers immediate, longer lasting results. Results can last from one to two years depending on the area being treated. Radiesse™ is natural feeling. Most patients express great satisfaction with how natural it looks and feels. Unlike Sculptra™, the area to be treated does not need to be overfilled to get the desired results. It is most commonly used for facial contouring of the cheeks, nasal labial folds, and can be used to fill acne scars.

7. Are there any long term side effects with Dermal Filler injections?

Serious complications are very rare, but as with all invasive procedures, undesirable side effects may occur. While not life threatening, a disappointing aesthetic outcome is a possibility. Fortunately, because the body eventually absorbs dermal fillers, these results are generally time limited. The use of fillers is as much an art, as it is medicine. It is important that the physician providing the injections have both a sound understanding of the medical aspect of the treatment, and be skilled in the artistic aspects of the procedure.

8. What is LED light therapy?

Light Emitting Diodes (LED) light therapy promotes wound healing and human tissue growth. Energy delivered by the LED accelerates the repair and replenishment of damaged skin cells, as well as stimulating the production of collagen. It is a non-invasive treatment, painless, with absolutely no down time. Light Therapy can be used alone or combined with other treatments such as microdermabrasion or photodynamic therapy (PDT). Blue Light targets bacteria that cause acne. Red light promotes collagen production, and smoothes skin texture; improves skin firmness, increases circulation, and reduces the appearance of aging skin, such as fine lines, wrinkles, & superficial hyperpigmentation.

9. My hands look weathered. What can I do to improve their appearance?

We often forget about our hands when thinking about skin rejuvenation. Sometimes our hands show the most premature aging. To combat sun spots, sun damage, and brown pigment, a combined approach is often the most effective. Microdermabrasion, LED light therapy, and chemical peels are inexpensive options but may take longer to achieve the desired result. IPL pulsed laser light, PhotoDynamic Therapy, and other lasers treatments are more expensive, but require less treatment time.

10. What areas of the face are most commonly treated with wrinkle fillers?

Most clients don’t want the “overfilled lip look”. Subtle use of fillers may enhance and restore your natural beauty without the “worked on” look.

The lip border is often filled to add definition while volume may be added to give a fuller look. “Smoker lines” around the mouth virtually disappear. A more youthful look is achieved by filling smile lines around the nose and mouth. Acne scars may also be filled to achieve a smoother contour. Combination therapy using both fillers and small amounts of BOTOX®, often enhance and extend the treatment.

11. Can BOTOX® treat excessive sweating?

Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating problems are caused by the nervous system. BOTOX® effectively blocks the impulses sent from the brain to the nerves that cause excessive sweating.

Deodorants and antiperspirants control sweat by clogging the pores, but are not effective on people with hyperhidrosis. Surgical treatments for hyperhidrosis include cutting out the sweat glands or cutting the nerves that lead to the glands. These surgical treatments can cause permanent scars and nerve damage.

BOTOX® treatments for hyperhidrosis take 10 to 20 minutes. The treatment begins working within the first week and last for six to twelve months.

12. What’s the difference between an AHA and a BHA chemical peel?

AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are a glycolic or lactic acid, both of which have been shown to increase collagen in sun-damaged skin and reduce pore size, redness, blotchiness, and fine lines.

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) is a salicylic acid, often recommended for oily complexions because it is effective in fighting acne. Its exfoliating properties help loosen blackheads and whiteheads.

We use AHA peels for aging skin and BHA peels for acne prone skin types. Many skin product lines use these acids as well, with varying potency. A physician’s line of home care products will have higher concentrations of these effective acids to help with skin maintenance.

13. What is Sculptra™?

Sculptra™ is a synthetic injectable material that is biocompatible (does not harm the body) and biodegradeable. Sculptra is injected below the surface of the skin in the area of fat loss and provides a gradual return to skin thickness. Unlike other “fillers”, Sculptra will stimulate the body to produce new collagen and underlying tissue, creating a fuller, more youthful appearance. One of the advantages of Sculptra, is that it may used for larger areas that are in need of greater volume. Unlike other fillers that only last 3-6 months, Sculptra lasts up to two years.

14. My friend had freckles all over her face and neck and now they’ve disappeared. She said she’d had an IPL treatment. What is that?

Intense Pulse Light (IPL) is often referred to as photo rejuvenation. Non invasive pulsed light treatments are used to treat freckling, sun damage, age spots, rosacea, small vascular imperfections, and fine lines and wrinkles.

A broad spectrum of light reaches deep down within the skin, targeting pigment and promoting collagen production. Most common areas treated are, face, hands, chest, back and arms.
IPL treatments can also be combined with other therapies like Botox, Injectable Fillers, and other lasers to restore the skin to a more youthful appearance. The number of treatments required depends on the degree of sun damage that exists. Typically 3-6 tx are performed at monthly intervals.

15. Can BOTOX® treat Migraine Headaches?

In the 1990’s, it was discovered that patients receiving BOTOX® for cosmetic reasons reported less frequent migraine headaches. Approximately 28 million Americans suffer from Migraine headaches, headaches that can be so severe that sufferers often describe them as blinding or paralyzing.

In studies, it has been found that 80 percent of migraine patients who underwent BOTOX® injections experienced migraine relief for four to six months. Studies also found that patients injected at various sites sometimes experienced immediate relief from migraines.

Doctors believe that the mechanism behind the BOTOX® migraine relief is that, in addition to relaxing muscles, the drug may interfere with the transmission of nerve pain signals.

16. Do I need an allergy skin test before getting an injectable filler?

Many of the original dermal fillers used bovine collagen and required allergy testing. The FDA approved dermal filers that we use do not require skin testing and are very safe. In the thousands of injections I have administered, we have had no long term allergic reactions. You may however experience some temporary swelling in the treatment area. If you have allergies or easily react to minor skin irritations, you may choose to have skin testing and return at a later date for definitive treatment.

17. Doesn’t most sun damage occur before age 18?

This is a common misconception. A recent study revealed that we actually get only 23 % of our total UV exposure by age 18. At age 40 it reaches about 46 %; by age 59, 74 %.

The important thing is that you can still prevent sun-induced aging other skin conditions such as skin cancer by getting serious about sunscreen.

18. What is PrevageMD?

Prevage MD anti-aging treatment contains 1% idebenone, scientifically shown to be the most powerful antioxidant available in a skin care product today. PrevageMD protects your skin from environmental stressors known to cause skin aging including UV light, air pollution, ozone, and cigarette smoke.

The antioxidant power of PrevageMD anti-aging treatment has been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as skin roughness and dryness, and to even skin tone to restore youthful looking skin. PrevageMD can only be purchased in a physician’s office.

19. What is hylauronic acid?

Hylauronic acid is a natural sugar found in the fluids surrounding cells and tissues. It is found in the skin, cartilage, joints and the eyes. In skin tissue, hylauronic acid fills the space between collagen fibers. The role of hylauronic acid in skin is to deliver nutrients, to hydrate the skin by holding in water and to act as a cushioning agent.

Restylane®, Juvederm® , Hylaform® , and Captique® are dermal fillers made of highly purified natural hylauronic acid. When injected these products temporarily add volume to your skin by mimicking the hydrating effects of your skin’s natural hylauronic acid. These FDA approved products are widely used to restore skin to a fuller more youthful state.

20. What skin care products can I use to help give my skin a healthy glow?

First, sunscreen is an absolute must to protect the skin. In addition, there are several well documented options for obtaining skin with a ‘healthy glow’ including skin rejuvenating products with glycolic acid, retinoids, and/or Vitamin C.

A newcomer on the market is Prevage (Idebenone). It is a highly effective topical antioxidant. You can buy it over the counter at 0.5% strength or at a physician’s office in a 1% strength.

More specific information on your skins condition can be assessed by experienced skin care professionals who can tailor specific treatments and products to your individual needs.

21. Do I need to take time off from work to recuperate after Collagen Replacement Therapy?

Collagen Replacement Therapy is a simple procedure with a quick recovery time. Most patients feel comfortable resuming their normal activities immediately following treatment. You are free to eat, drink, or wear makeup and sunblock shortly after treatment. Temporary puffiness of the treated areas should be expected. As with any injection, you may also notice temporary redness, slight bruising and tenderness around the treatment site. If bruising occurs, it is generally limited, lasting a few days to a week or more. Bruising can be avoided by following your physician’s pre and post instructions.

22. What’s the difference between Idebenone and Idebenol?

Idebenone is a highly effective antioxidant with good studies that prove its effectiveness. You can buy it over the counter in a 0.5% strength (Prevage) or at a physicians office in a 1% strength (PrevageMD).

A client pointed out that she could buy what she thought was the same product at 2% strength on the internet. A closer look disclosed that this product had “Idebenol” which has none of the active ingrediant “idebenone”. In fact in very small print on the bottle it proudly claimed: “ 100% idebenone free”. Buyer beware!!!

23. What are collagen dermal (skin) fillers?

Collagen is the most abundant natural protein found in the body and provides structural support to skin, muscle, tendons and bone. Fibers of collagen are woven together, like threads in fabric, to form a framework into which new cells can grow. In the skin, collagen provides texture, resiliency and shape.

CosmoDerm® and CosmoPlast® are two examples of collagen dermal (skin) fillers made from purified human collagen and injected just below the skin’s surface to smooth wrinkles, fill in deep furrows and folds, and restore the lip border. These newer collagen dermal fillers are FDA approved and generally do not require allergy testing, unlike older bovine collagen injections.

24. My eyelids are starting to droop, but I’m not quite ready for surgery. Is there anything I can do?

A few units of BOTOX, properly placed, can help to relax the muscles that pull the brow downward. When injected with BOTOX, those muscles relax, allowing the muscles of the lateral forehead to slightly lift the eyebrow. This causes an eye opening effect, often improving drooping eyelids. It is important that the physician is trained in facial anatomy and that he or she is skilled in assessing the individual’s facial muscles. Every individual is unique and it is important that the BOTOX be placed correctly to avoid a poor outcome.

25. What is the best makeup to use to avoid acne breakouts?

Quality “mineral makeups” are generally the best for keeping skin healthy. Quality mineral makeups are: non-comedogenic (will not block skin pores), have no allergy risks, have broad-spectrum UVB and UVA protection, have anti-inflammatory properties, and contain no talc or paraben. The best products will allow the skin to breathe and function normally while still protecting it from air-borne pollutants. Look for brands with staying power even while exercising. Many companies label their products as “mineral makeup”, but look closely at the ingredients. If minerals are not listed as one of the top few ingredients, it would be wise to look elsewhere.

26. What is the best time of year to do Laser Hair Removal (LHR)?

Winter is perfect because your summer tan will have faded. Best results are achieved when the skin is light because there is no surface tan to “steal” the treatment energy from the pigmented hair follicle. If your tan hasn’t faded yet, treat lighter areas such as underarms and bikini line.

Since tanning ages the skin more rapidly, we encourage our clients to protect their skin throughout the year with sunscreen. We have great sunless tanning products that can give you a very natural looking tan with out the health and cosmetic risk of excessive tanning.

27. I have bumps and ingrown areas in areas where I shave. Is there a treatment?

Folliculitis Barbae, is the medical term for the bumps and ingrown hairs on the face and neck for men, and the legs or bikini area for women. Not only is the condition unsightly, but can become inflamed, infected, and painfully uncomfortable.

Laser hair removal can permanently destroy the hair follicles and restore the skins smoothness. In addition, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and other exfoliating skin care treatments can help reduces the number and occurrence of ingrown hairs. There are several topical applications to ease the condition, as well.

28. I have very dark circles under my eyes. Is there anything I can do besides using makeup to conceal them?

Many factors may contribute to dark circles under the eyes including heredity, sun damage, and allergies, as well as, normal aging. Dark circles caused from pigment changes in the skin can be resolved by using skin care products with Vitamin C or K, and/or other bleaching agents.

One aspect of aging is significant thinning of skin around the eyes and loss of the “fat padding” in the face, both of which can result in dark circles under the eyes. Careful placement of dermal (injectable) fillers such as Restylane, can add volume and restore the eye orbit to a more youthful and “rested” appearance. This is an advanced technique that should only be performed by an experienced physician.

29. How do over the counter microdermabrasion products compare to the clinical procedure?

Microdermabrasion uses both exfoliation for the outer surface of the skin and suction for the inner layer of the skin. Microdermabrasion’s abrasive cleansing results in a smoother more glowing epidermis with less clinically evident pores. Some studies have suggested that suction stimulates the dermis and increases both collagen and elastin. While microdermabrasion skin care products are beneficial in exfoliating the skin, they do not have the suction capability and do not allow for the trained eye of a skin care specialist to play a role in treatment therapy. Therefore, they should be used as an adjunct rather than a replacement for microdermabrasion services performed by a talented and experienced skin care professional.

30. My skin is so damaged from sunbathing in my youth. What can I do?

The first thing I’d recommend is to get a Digital Photo Skin Analysis of your skin. This is a diagnostic tool that provides a clinical measurement of the surface and subsurface skin irregularities and pigment conditions. It examines various age-related conditions such as fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, enlarged pores, skin tone evenness, bacterial growth and sun damage. After getting this Digital Skin Analysis you will be provided with a baseline of your skin’s condition. This will help you to know whether products or cosmetic procedures are improving your conditions in the future.