Mar 23, 2009 – “We are trying to make Botox more accessible for people who had not considered trying the procedure before. Nowadays, Botox is not limited to just Hollywood stars, and since the nineties the number of clinics has mushroomed. Although Botox has been used for other conditions in the past such as muscle spasms, cranial nerve disorders and ophthalmic spasm, when the FDA finally approved Botox in the early 90s to be used to treat facial wrinkles, the popularity of the toxin rose tremendously.” Says Dr. Sid Gautam of DermaSkin.co.uk (http://www.DermaSkin.co.uk)
For more information about Botox treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
He added that, “On any given day, thousands of Botox treatments are carried out in the UK and the US, but with the increase in the number of rogue traders, one must be sure of the credentials of the service provider. It is truly a wonder of science and technology. Botox has been found to be very effective at removing and reducing forehead wrinkle lines and other facial asymmetries. In fact, after a few Botox treatments clients see that their facial lines actually weaken and their skin takes on a more permanently smooth appearance."
Speaking on the move, Dr. Sid Gautam said, "Botulinum toxin is extremely potent, but Botox injections are diluted to the extent that they are very safe to use clinically and have been proven to be effective and safe in the right hands." (http://www.DermaSkin.co.uk)
For more information about Botox treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Friday, May 22, 2009
What's the Best Laser Hair Removal?
Unwanted body hair can be so embarrassing that it’s almost traumatizing to some patients. Doctor Simon Ourian M.D. for more than ten years has been helping his patients deal with this embarrassing problem that affects both men and women.
Mar 30, 2009 – Dr. Simon Ourian, Medical Director of Epione Beverly Hills, located in the exclusive shopping, restaurant and hotel enclave in Los Angeles, California built his practice more than ten years ago and has been studying the health and science of hirsutism longer than that. As commonly defined, hirsutism is simply excessive hair. In fact, the actual scientific definition is the condition in women of excessive hair growth in parts of the body where hair growth is normally minimal. Typically the hair found is coarse and visible rather than fine or vellus. It is believed that this condition may be the result of very high levels of androgens (male sex hormones) or by hair follicles that overreact to normal androgen levels.
For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171
“This is a problem I’ve seen every day since I opened my clinic in 1998,” says Doctor Ourian, and it can be a source of great anxiety and stress for women. It is not unusual to see hair growth on the face that, of course, can’t be covered up with a cream or makeup. Doctor Ourian continues “I don’t at all see this as a cosmetic or vanity issue. It is a medical condition and I treat it that way.”
“I’m a cosmetic dermatologist and it’s my job to make people look better and feel better about themselves. But when we help a woman who may have spent years hiding herself because of unwanted facial hair it reminds me why I decided to devote my professional life to this area of practice. I’ve literally seen patients transform into butterflies in front of my eyes.”
Doctor Ourian goes on to say “Of course we treat patients whose problems aren’t nearly as severe or who are looking simply to throw away their razor for good. Here in sunny, Southern California the result of the combination of beautiful weather and level of body consciousness is a lot of exposed skin. Understandably, people, both men and women, don’t want to exercise and diet so that they can cover up their bodies in layers of clothes. They’re fit and they want to show it off.”
Epione has been offering laser hair removal for more than ten years. Women who have been waxing their legs or shaving their armpits for as long as they can remember come in looking for a more permanent solution. For men it’s often a spot on their back or shoulders, though it’s not unusual these days for men to request laser hair removal treatments on their chest, shoulders and back or even their entire body. For men who suffer from ingrown hairs and razor bumps when they shave their face, laser hair removal is a great option.
“As the Medical Director of Epione I have been practicing as a cosmetic dermatologist for more than ten years,” continues Doctor Ourian, “and I believe that the lasers we use for hair removal achieve results superior to other modalities and lasers. Despite what the ads you see or the magazine articles you read may tell you, no skin care product or cream is likely to give you the results you want.”
For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171
Dr. Ourian's Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane, BOTOX®, Juvéderm, Radiesse and Sculptra. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, cellulite, and tens of others. Laser hair removal and laser tattoo removal are offered too. Epione also carries Dr. Ourian’s Signature Series skin care products. For further information please contact (888) 951-3377 or visit: www.epione.com.
Mar 30, 2009 – Dr. Simon Ourian, Medical Director of Epione Beverly Hills, located in the exclusive shopping, restaurant and hotel enclave in Los Angeles, California built his practice more than ten years ago and has been studying the health and science of hirsutism longer than that. As commonly defined, hirsutism is simply excessive hair. In fact, the actual scientific definition is the condition in women of excessive hair growth in parts of the body where hair growth is normally minimal. Typically the hair found is coarse and visible rather than fine or vellus. It is believed that this condition may be the result of very high levels of androgens (male sex hormones) or by hair follicles that overreact to normal androgen levels.
For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171
“This is a problem I’ve seen every day since I opened my clinic in 1998,” says Doctor Ourian, and it can be a source of great anxiety and stress for women. It is not unusual to see hair growth on the face that, of course, can’t be covered up with a cream or makeup. Doctor Ourian continues “I don’t at all see this as a cosmetic or vanity issue. It is a medical condition and I treat it that way.”
“I’m a cosmetic dermatologist and it’s my job to make people look better and feel better about themselves. But when we help a woman who may have spent years hiding herself because of unwanted facial hair it reminds me why I decided to devote my professional life to this area of practice. I’ve literally seen patients transform into butterflies in front of my eyes.”
Doctor Ourian goes on to say “Of course we treat patients whose problems aren’t nearly as severe or who are looking simply to throw away their razor for good. Here in sunny, Southern California the result of the combination of beautiful weather and level of body consciousness is a lot of exposed skin. Understandably, people, both men and women, don’t want to exercise and diet so that they can cover up their bodies in layers of clothes. They’re fit and they want to show it off.”
Epione has been offering laser hair removal for more than ten years. Women who have been waxing their legs or shaving their armpits for as long as they can remember come in looking for a more permanent solution. For men it’s often a spot on their back or shoulders, though it’s not unusual these days for men to request laser hair removal treatments on their chest, shoulders and back or even their entire body. For men who suffer from ingrown hairs and razor bumps when they shave their face, laser hair removal is a great option.
“As the Medical Director of Epione I have been practicing as a cosmetic dermatologist for more than ten years,” continues Doctor Ourian, “and I believe that the lasers we use for hair removal achieve results superior to other modalities and lasers. Despite what the ads you see or the magazine articles you read may tell you, no skin care product or cream is likely to give you the results you want.”
For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171
Dr. Ourian's Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane, BOTOX®, Juvéderm, Radiesse and Sculptra. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, cellulite, and tens of others. Laser hair removal and laser tattoo removal are offered too. Epione also carries Dr. Ourian’s Signature Series skin care products. For further information please contact (888) 951-3377 or visit: www.epione.com.
The FDA Scoop on Whole Grains
You keep hearing that you should eat more whole grains, but what are they? How much should you eat? Eating at least three or more one-ounce equivalents of whole grains daily can reduce the risk of some diseases, according to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These guidelines are published every 5 years by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
"So if you want to do yourself some good, eating three or more servings of whole grains each day can help you achieve a healthy diet," says David Acheson, M.D., the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) associate commissioner for foods.
What Are Whole Grains?
Whole grains are cereal grains that consist of the intact, ground, cracked, or flaked kernel, which includes the bran, the germ, and the inner most part of the kernel (the endosperm).
Some examples of whole grains include whole wheat, oatmeal, whole-grain cornmeal, brown rice, whole-grain barley, whole rye, and buckwheat. Spelt, often thought of as a unique whole grain, is actually a member of the wheat family.
When trying to select products that contain whole grains, look for those that show whole grains listed first on the ingredient list. The ingredient list on a food label shows ingredients in the order of the most abundant by weight.
For products such as bread or pasta to be labeled whole grain, the grain can be ground, cracked, or flaked, but it must retain the same proportions of bran, germ, and endosperm.
A Daily Dose of Whole Grains
Eating at least three one-ounce equivalents of whole grains per day can reduce the risk of several chronic diseases. Examples of a one-ounce equivalent include:
1/2 cup cooked oatmeal
1/2 cup cooked 100% whole-grain pasta
1/2 cup cooked brown rice or whole-grain barley
1 regular slice of 100% whole-grain bread
1 cup of whole-grain ready-to-eat cereal (flakes or rounds) or 1¼ cup puffed
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Health Information Web page (www.fda.gov/consumer), which features the latest updates on FDA-regulated products. Sign up for free e-mail subscriptions at www.fda.gov/consumer/consumerenews.html.
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
"So if you want to do yourself some good, eating three or more servings of whole grains each day can help you achieve a healthy diet," says David Acheson, M.D., the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) associate commissioner for foods.
What Are Whole Grains?
Whole grains are cereal grains that consist of the intact, ground, cracked, or flaked kernel, which includes the bran, the germ, and the inner most part of the kernel (the endosperm).
Some examples of whole grains include whole wheat, oatmeal, whole-grain cornmeal, brown rice, whole-grain barley, whole rye, and buckwheat. Spelt, often thought of as a unique whole grain, is actually a member of the wheat family.
When trying to select products that contain whole grains, look for those that show whole grains listed first on the ingredient list. The ingredient list on a food label shows ingredients in the order of the most abundant by weight.
For products such as bread or pasta to be labeled whole grain, the grain can be ground, cracked, or flaked, but it must retain the same proportions of bran, germ, and endosperm.
A Daily Dose of Whole Grains
Eating at least three one-ounce equivalents of whole grains per day can reduce the risk of several chronic diseases. Examples of a one-ounce equivalent include:
1/2 cup cooked oatmeal
1/2 cup cooked 100% whole-grain pasta
1/2 cup cooked brown rice or whole-grain barley
1 regular slice of 100% whole-grain bread
1 cup of whole-grain ready-to-eat cereal (flakes or rounds) or 1¼ cup puffed
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Health Information Web page (www.fda.gov/consumer), which features the latest updates on FDA-regulated products. Sign up for free e-mail subscriptions at www.fda.gov/consumer/consumerenews.html.
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
Derma Health Celebrates Paradise Valley Grand Opening
Join us for the Grand Opening Celebration for the new Derma Health Institute in Paradise Valley on Saturday, May 30th, from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm.
The event features:
98.7 The Peak broadcasting live from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
hCG Diet special for $575 with a free Velashape (eliminates cellulite).
Vitamin B-12 shots for only $15 (package of 12 for $120).
More specials for the grand opening will be announced as we get closer to the event date. All Derma Health Institute clinics will be honoring the grand opening specials.
The location of the new Derma Health Institute is:
10214 N. Tatum Blvd., Ste. B-300
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Phone: 480-991-7900
The Paradise Valley Derma Health Institute offers top-of-the-line care performed exclusively by Dr. Laurie Moody and her team of four trained, licensed and certified medical and aesthetic professionals.
In 2008 Derma Health Institute was honored as a Diamond Level provider of Botox and Juvederm by Allergen, the company that produces the products, and was recognized as one of the largest providers of these procedures in the state of Arizona.
For more information on the Grand Opening event May 30, 2009 or to schedule your appointment at the new Paradise Valley location, call 480-991-7900 or visit http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com.
The event features:
98.7 The Peak broadcasting live from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
hCG Diet special for $575 with a free Velashape (eliminates cellulite).
Vitamin B-12 shots for only $15 (package of 12 for $120).
More specials for the grand opening will be announced as we get closer to the event date. All Derma Health Institute clinics will be honoring the grand opening specials.
The location of the new Derma Health Institute is:
10214 N. Tatum Blvd., Ste. B-300
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Phone: 480-991-7900
The Paradise Valley Derma Health Institute offers top-of-the-line care performed exclusively by Dr. Laurie Moody and her team of four trained, licensed and certified medical and aesthetic professionals.
In 2008 Derma Health Institute was honored as a Diamond Level provider of Botox and Juvederm by Allergen, the company that produces the products, and was recognized as one of the largest providers of these procedures in the state of Arizona.
For more information on the Grand Opening event May 30, 2009 or to schedule your appointment at the new Paradise Valley location, call 480-991-7900 or visit http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com.
Dermatologists Encourage People to Screen for Skin Cancer
American Academy of Dermatology introduces new "E" tool for detecting melanoma
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Treating moms and dads to brunch or backyard barbeques is a great way to honor them on Mother's Day and Father's Day, but the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) hopes more families will start another annual tradition -- screening their loved ones for skin cancer. To help detect the warning signs of skin cancer, especially melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer), the Academy is adopting the revised ABCDs of Melanoma Detection by adding an "E" for evolving.
Based on current estimates, more than 1 million cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2009. When detected early, most skin cancers can be successfully treated. Performing regular skin self-examinations is an easy way to detect suspicious moles that could be cancerous, and research shows that involving a partner in the self-examination process can improve the early detection of skin cancer.
"People who check their skin regularly for any changes in existing moles or new moles are taking an important first step in detecting the early warning signs of skin cancer," said dermatologist David M. Pariser, MD, FAAD, president of the Academy. "Asking a partner to help monitor your skin for any changes or to assist in examining hard-to-reach areas can be very beneficial in spotting skin cancer."
To enhance a patient's ability to detect skin cancer, the Academy has adopted the revised ABCDs of Melanoma Detection, which include an "E" for Evolving. A mole or skin lesion that is "Evolving" or changing in size, shape or color should be brought to the attention of a dermatologist. This is in addition to other characteristics of moles for which individuals should check their skin -- Asymmetry (one half unlike the other half), Border (irregular, scalloped or poorly defined), Color (varies from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black; sometimes white, red or blue), and Diameter (the size of a pencil eraser or larger). A mole with any of these characteristics, or one that is an "ugly duckling", meaning it looks different from the rest, should be brought to a dermatologist's attention.
A new study published in Cancer (December 15, 2008) examining changes in melanomas diagnosed over 35 years found that melanomas were frequently described by patients as evolving lesions. In this collaborative study conducted at the NYU Langone Medical Center, dermatologist David Polsky, MD, PhD, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology and pathology and director of the Pigmented Lesion Clinic in the Ronald O. Perlman Department of Dermatology, and colleagues studied 1,684 prospectively enrolled patients diagnosed with 1,734 melanomas. They observed important differences in the clinical behavior of nodular melanomas (very rapidly growing melanomas) compared to superficial spreading melanomas (the most common type of melanoma).
Among the key findings, Dr. Polsky reported that more than 90 percent of patients with nodular melanoma reported a history of change in the lesion and these patients were more likely to be diagnosed with thicker, more dangerous tumors. By comparison, 80 percent of patients with superficial spreading melanoma indicated a slower pace of change in the lesion, and over time these lesions were diagnosed earlier in their evolution, as thinner, less problematic, tumors.
"Nodular melanomas typically do not have the classic ABCD features that one might expect to find when doing a skin self-exam, as they can be one color and have smooth borders," said Dr. Polsky. "But what's important to note is that nodular melanomas do change over a few months time, especially in color or height, such as a bump on the skin. So, I think by modifying our detection criteria to include 'evolving,' the ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection will better encompass the characteristics of aggressive nodular melanomas and help patients better assess a dangerous mole."
In addition, the Academy offers a Body Mole Map, a tool individuals can use to track their moles. The map provides information on how to perform a skin exam, images of the ABCDEs of melanoma and space for people to track their moles to determine any changes over time. Popular holidays, such as Mother's Day (May 10), Father's Day (June 21) and Grandparents Day (September 13) are reminders for people to check their loved ones' skin for suspicious moles using the Academy's Body Mole Map. The mole map is available at www.melanomamonday.org.
To minimize your risk of skin cancer, the Academy recommends that everyone Be Sun Smart(SM):
Generously apply a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 to all exposed skin. "Broad-spectrum" provides protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Re-apply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Look for the AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION(R) on products that meet these criteria.
Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, when possible.
Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade.
Protect children from sun exposure by playing in the shade, using protective clothing, and applying sunscreen.
Use extra caution near water, snow and sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun which can increase your chance of sunburn. Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements. Don't seek the sun.
Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you've been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it. Check your birthday suit on your birthday. If you notice anything changing, growing, or bleeding on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early.
For more information about skin cancer, please visit the SkinCancerNet section of www.SkinCarePhysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Treating moms and dads to brunch or backyard barbeques is a great way to honor them on Mother's Day and Father's Day, but the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) hopes more families will start another annual tradition -- screening their loved ones for skin cancer. To help detect the warning signs of skin cancer, especially melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer), the Academy is adopting the revised ABCDs of Melanoma Detection by adding an "E" for evolving.
Based on current estimates, more than 1 million cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2009. When detected early, most skin cancers can be successfully treated. Performing regular skin self-examinations is an easy way to detect suspicious moles that could be cancerous, and research shows that involving a partner in the self-examination process can improve the early detection of skin cancer.
"People who check their skin regularly for any changes in existing moles or new moles are taking an important first step in detecting the early warning signs of skin cancer," said dermatologist David M. Pariser, MD, FAAD, president of the Academy. "Asking a partner to help monitor your skin for any changes or to assist in examining hard-to-reach areas can be very beneficial in spotting skin cancer."
To enhance a patient's ability to detect skin cancer, the Academy has adopted the revised ABCDs of Melanoma Detection, which include an "E" for Evolving. A mole or skin lesion that is "Evolving" or changing in size, shape or color should be brought to the attention of a dermatologist. This is in addition to other characteristics of moles for which individuals should check their skin -- Asymmetry (one half unlike the other half), Border (irregular, scalloped or poorly defined), Color (varies from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black; sometimes white, red or blue), and Diameter (the size of a pencil eraser or larger). A mole with any of these characteristics, or one that is an "ugly duckling", meaning it looks different from the rest, should be brought to a dermatologist's attention.
A new study published in Cancer (December 15, 2008) examining changes in melanomas diagnosed over 35 years found that melanomas were frequently described by patients as evolving lesions. In this collaborative study conducted at the NYU Langone Medical Center, dermatologist David Polsky, MD, PhD, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology and pathology and director of the Pigmented Lesion Clinic in the Ronald O. Perlman Department of Dermatology, and colleagues studied 1,684 prospectively enrolled patients diagnosed with 1,734 melanomas. They observed important differences in the clinical behavior of nodular melanomas (very rapidly growing melanomas) compared to superficial spreading melanomas (the most common type of melanoma).
Among the key findings, Dr. Polsky reported that more than 90 percent of patients with nodular melanoma reported a history of change in the lesion and these patients were more likely to be diagnosed with thicker, more dangerous tumors. By comparison, 80 percent of patients with superficial spreading melanoma indicated a slower pace of change in the lesion, and over time these lesions were diagnosed earlier in their evolution, as thinner, less problematic, tumors.
"Nodular melanomas typically do not have the classic ABCD features that one might expect to find when doing a skin self-exam, as they can be one color and have smooth borders," said Dr. Polsky. "But what's important to note is that nodular melanomas do change over a few months time, especially in color or height, such as a bump on the skin. So, I think by modifying our detection criteria to include 'evolving,' the ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection will better encompass the characteristics of aggressive nodular melanomas and help patients better assess a dangerous mole."
In addition, the Academy offers a Body Mole Map, a tool individuals can use to track their moles. The map provides information on how to perform a skin exam, images of the ABCDEs of melanoma and space for people to track their moles to determine any changes over time. Popular holidays, such as Mother's Day (May 10), Father's Day (June 21) and Grandparents Day (September 13) are reminders for people to check their loved ones' skin for suspicious moles using the Academy's Body Mole Map. The mole map is available at www.melanomamonday.org.
To minimize your risk of skin cancer, the Academy recommends that everyone Be Sun Smart(SM):
Generously apply a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 to all exposed skin. "Broad-spectrum" provides protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Re-apply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Look for the AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION(R) on products that meet these criteria.
Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, when possible.
Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade.
Protect children from sun exposure by playing in the shade, using protective clothing, and applying sunscreen.
Use extra caution near water, snow and sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun which can increase your chance of sunburn. Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements. Don't seek the sun.
Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you've been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it. Check your birthday suit on your birthday. If you notice anything changing, growing, or bleeding on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early.
For more information about skin cancer, please visit the SkinCancerNet section of www.SkinCarePhysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
Early Detection of Melanoma is Vital For Beating Disease
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On television's popular "Grey's Anatomy," Dr. Izzie Stevens faces a grim diagnosis: stage IV metastatic melanoma. As the drama unfolds, viewers get a glimpse at why patients with the deadliest form of skin cancer -- in the most advanced stage of diagnosis -- face a mere 10-month median survival rate. In real life, this type of prognosis is devastating and leaves melanoma patients with few options for beating this disease that claims the life of one American almost every hour (every 62 minutes). But dermatologists agree that when melanoma is diagnosed in its earliest, most treatable stages, time is on your side.
Dermatologist Gary S. Rogers, MD, FAAD, professor of dermatology and surgery at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, and dermatologist Jason K. Rivers, MD, FAAD, clinical professor of dermatology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, reviewed the most common treatments for the different stages of melanoma and offered suggestions for melanoma patients aiming for their five-year survival mark.
Melanoma Treatments Vary Depending on Stage
When detected in its earliest stages (stage 0 - stage I), melanoma is highly curable. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that the average five-year survival rate for individuals whose melanoma is localized and has not spread beyond the outer layers of the skin is 99 percent. Dr. Rogers explained that for patients diagnosed with a stage 0 or stage I melanoma, a routine, typically office-based surgical procedure to remove the tumor and a margin of normal-looking skin around it is performed and neither chemotherapy nor radiation is required.
In special circumstances where a melanoma occurs on a cosmetically or functionally critical site, such as the lip, nose, eyelid or finger, Dr. Rogers noted that a new technology based on a variation of Mohs surgery is being used successfully. The procedure uses an anti-melanoma targeted antibody known as MART-1 (Melanoma Antigen Recognized by T cells), which improves the speed and accuracy of the procedure. The technique allows the surgeon to microscopically identify and remove the melanoma cells with minimal sacrifice of healthy tissues in real-time (16-20 minutes). The ability to successfully resect (or surgically remove) the cancer with potentially an 1/8 inch margin rather than an inch margin is critical when working on delicate structures such as an eyelid, said Rogers.
For stage II melanomas, surgery is performed to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. In addition, the dermatologic surgeon often tests the lymph nodes to determine if the cancer has spread. If the melanoma is going to spread, Dr. Rogers noted that 57 percent of the time the first place the cancer goes is to the local draining lymph nodes. A procedure known as a sentinel lymph node biopsy tests the first lymph nodes into which the melanoma drains. If the lymph nodes are free of cancer cells, then the melanoma is considered in stage II with an average five-year survival rate of 70 percent. In this stage, Dr. Rogers explained that interferon may be given as an adjuvant (or drug-enhancing agent) to boost the patient's immune system.
However, if the lymph nodes are determined to be involved, then the melanoma is classified as stage III. In this stage, the cancer has spread to one or more nearby lymph nodes and the average five-year survival rate drops to 50 percent or less. Once a melanoma has spread beyond the skin growth, a more extensive treatment plan -- which may include surgical removal of the tumor with wide margins, usually including the affected regional lymph nodes; chemotherapy; immunotherapy or radiation therapy -- is often indicated.
When the tumor has spread to a distant site, such as the lung, brain or other organ, this is considered a stage IV melanoma with an average survival rate of only 10 months. One drug being used to treat patients with advanced melanoma is known as dacarbazine or DTIC. However, the remission rate with this drug is only 10 percent.
"No studies to date show that chemotherapy or any treatment regimens are effective when melanoma has spread to other organs," said Dr. Rogers. "The silver lining is that given the explosion in our understanding of the molecular biology of melanoma, there are a number of drugs and therapies in the pipeline that are being studied to treat the more advanced stage melanomas."
One potential therapy involves targeting specific drugs to specific genes that are known to go awry in the development of melanoma. There are multiple genes involved in melanoma progression from local tumor to disseminated disease. And, on a molecular level, there are many differences between melanomas that form in chronically sun-exposed areas versus areas of the body that are not sun-exposed, such as the soles or palms. The goal is to find a drug that will target a specific type of gene defect responsible for certain types of melanoma. "Just as one shoe does not fit all sizes, we are on the verge of being able to tailor therapy to a particular patient," added Dr. Rogers.
Clinical trials also are underway to test a vaccine known as the MAGE-A (melanoma antigen - family A) vaccine that would be used as an adjuvant to treat certain types of stage III and IV melanoma. MAGE is an antigen that exists in every cell in the body, but it is not expressed (or made apparent as an observable inherited characteristic) except in cancer. The gene that produces the MAGE protein lies dormant but becomes activated on the surface of melanoma cells and other cancers. Now, this vaccine is being tested to target cells that express or produce inherited characteristics of the MAGE antigen. Dr. Rogers estimated that 60 to 70 percent of melanoma patients express the MAGE antigen, and he believes the vaccine could hold tremendous promise in treating more advanced melanomas in the future.
Tips for Melanoma Survivors: Remain Vigilant
Individuals diagnosed with melanoma are at risk for developing another melanoma and other types of cancer. Dr. Rivers explained that melanoma patients, especially those with atypical moles, are at increased risk for melanoma of the eyes. He reported that studies also show that melanoma seems to increase the likelihood of contracting breast cancer and possibly some lymphomas. In families where more than one family member has melanoma, Dr. Rivers said these patients also are at increased risk for developing pancreatic cancer.
"Once a patient is diagnosed with melanoma, he or she should be checked by a dermatologist as often as every three months to once a year, depending on the individual's prognosis," said Dr. Rivers. "The most important factor in beating melanoma and improving survival rates is increased public awareness, as this has been shown to save lives by identifying melanoma at an early, curable stage."
In his practice, Dr. Rogers offers tips for melanoma survivors that he personally believes are good for their overall health. These include:
Eating foods rich in anti-oxidants, such as legumes, kale, green leafy vegetables, carrots, fish (especially salmon), fruits, whole grains, and flax seed.
Taking recommended daily doses of anti-oxidant supplements, including beta carotene, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin E and fish oils (also known as EPA).
Drink one to two glasses of red wine a day. Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in the skins of grapes (part of the plant's immune system), has potent anti-cancer properties and becomes concentrated in red wine during the fermentation process.
Avoiding other forms of alcohol other than red wine, as alcohol in general is detrimental to a person's health in many ways and suppresses the immune system.
"I always tell my melanoma patients to remain hopeful and vigilant, and see your dermatologist regularly," added Dr. Rogers. "Even if you beat melanoma once, you have an increased risk of getting another one in the future. With melanoma, you can never let your guard down."
Visit www.melanomamonday.org to find out how to perform a skin self-exam, download a body mole map to track changes in your skin and find free skin cancer screenings in your area. For more information on skin cancer, go to the "SkinCancerNet" section of www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On television's popular "Grey's Anatomy," Dr. Izzie Stevens faces a grim diagnosis: stage IV metastatic melanoma. As the drama unfolds, viewers get a glimpse at why patients with the deadliest form of skin cancer -- in the most advanced stage of diagnosis -- face a mere 10-month median survival rate. In real life, this type of prognosis is devastating and leaves melanoma patients with few options for beating this disease that claims the life of one American almost every hour (every 62 minutes). But dermatologists agree that when melanoma is diagnosed in its earliest, most treatable stages, time is on your side.
Dermatologist Gary S. Rogers, MD, FAAD, professor of dermatology and surgery at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, and dermatologist Jason K. Rivers, MD, FAAD, clinical professor of dermatology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, reviewed the most common treatments for the different stages of melanoma and offered suggestions for melanoma patients aiming for their five-year survival mark.
Melanoma Treatments Vary Depending on Stage
When detected in its earliest stages (stage 0 - stage I), melanoma is highly curable. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that the average five-year survival rate for individuals whose melanoma is localized and has not spread beyond the outer layers of the skin is 99 percent. Dr. Rogers explained that for patients diagnosed with a stage 0 or stage I melanoma, a routine, typically office-based surgical procedure to remove the tumor and a margin of normal-looking skin around it is performed and neither chemotherapy nor radiation is required.
In special circumstances where a melanoma occurs on a cosmetically or functionally critical site, such as the lip, nose, eyelid or finger, Dr. Rogers noted that a new technology based on a variation of Mohs surgery is being used successfully. The procedure uses an anti-melanoma targeted antibody known as MART-1 (Melanoma Antigen Recognized by T cells), which improves the speed and accuracy of the procedure. The technique allows the surgeon to microscopically identify and remove the melanoma cells with minimal sacrifice of healthy tissues in real-time (16-20 minutes). The ability to successfully resect (or surgically remove) the cancer with potentially an 1/8 inch margin rather than an inch margin is critical when working on delicate structures such as an eyelid, said Rogers.
For stage II melanomas, surgery is performed to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. In addition, the dermatologic surgeon often tests the lymph nodes to determine if the cancer has spread. If the melanoma is going to spread, Dr. Rogers noted that 57 percent of the time the first place the cancer goes is to the local draining lymph nodes. A procedure known as a sentinel lymph node biopsy tests the first lymph nodes into which the melanoma drains. If the lymph nodes are free of cancer cells, then the melanoma is considered in stage II with an average five-year survival rate of 70 percent. In this stage, Dr. Rogers explained that interferon may be given as an adjuvant (or drug-enhancing agent) to boost the patient's immune system.
However, if the lymph nodes are determined to be involved, then the melanoma is classified as stage III. In this stage, the cancer has spread to one or more nearby lymph nodes and the average five-year survival rate drops to 50 percent or less. Once a melanoma has spread beyond the skin growth, a more extensive treatment plan -- which may include surgical removal of the tumor with wide margins, usually including the affected regional lymph nodes; chemotherapy; immunotherapy or radiation therapy -- is often indicated.
When the tumor has spread to a distant site, such as the lung, brain or other organ, this is considered a stage IV melanoma with an average survival rate of only 10 months. One drug being used to treat patients with advanced melanoma is known as dacarbazine or DTIC. However, the remission rate with this drug is only 10 percent.
"No studies to date show that chemotherapy or any treatment regimens are effective when melanoma has spread to other organs," said Dr. Rogers. "The silver lining is that given the explosion in our understanding of the molecular biology of melanoma, there are a number of drugs and therapies in the pipeline that are being studied to treat the more advanced stage melanomas."
One potential therapy involves targeting specific drugs to specific genes that are known to go awry in the development of melanoma. There are multiple genes involved in melanoma progression from local tumor to disseminated disease. And, on a molecular level, there are many differences between melanomas that form in chronically sun-exposed areas versus areas of the body that are not sun-exposed, such as the soles or palms. The goal is to find a drug that will target a specific type of gene defect responsible for certain types of melanoma. "Just as one shoe does not fit all sizes, we are on the verge of being able to tailor therapy to a particular patient," added Dr. Rogers.
Clinical trials also are underway to test a vaccine known as the MAGE-A (melanoma antigen - family A) vaccine that would be used as an adjuvant to treat certain types of stage III and IV melanoma. MAGE is an antigen that exists in every cell in the body, but it is not expressed (or made apparent as an observable inherited characteristic) except in cancer. The gene that produces the MAGE protein lies dormant but becomes activated on the surface of melanoma cells and other cancers. Now, this vaccine is being tested to target cells that express or produce inherited characteristics of the MAGE antigen. Dr. Rogers estimated that 60 to 70 percent of melanoma patients express the MAGE antigen, and he believes the vaccine could hold tremendous promise in treating more advanced melanomas in the future.
Tips for Melanoma Survivors: Remain Vigilant
Individuals diagnosed with melanoma are at risk for developing another melanoma and other types of cancer. Dr. Rivers explained that melanoma patients, especially those with atypical moles, are at increased risk for melanoma of the eyes. He reported that studies also show that melanoma seems to increase the likelihood of contracting breast cancer and possibly some lymphomas. In families where more than one family member has melanoma, Dr. Rivers said these patients also are at increased risk for developing pancreatic cancer.
"Once a patient is diagnosed with melanoma, he or she should be checked by a dermatologist as often as every three months to once a year, depending on the individual's prognosis," said Dr. Rivers. "The most important factor in beating melanoma and improving survival rates is increased public awareness, as this has been shown to save lives by identifying melanoma at an early, curable stage."
In his practice, Dr. Rogers offers tips for melanoma survivors that he personally believes are good for their overall health. These include:
Eating foods rich in anti-oxidants, such as legumes, kale, green leafy vegetables, carrots, fish (especially salmon), fruits, whole grains, and flax seed.
Taking recommended daily doses of anti-oxidant supplements, including beta carotene, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin E and fish oils (also known as EPA).
Drink one to two glasses of red wine a day. Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in the skins of grapes (part of the plant's immune system), has potent anti-cancer properties and becomes concentrated in red wine during the fermentation process.
Avoiding other forms of alcohol other than red wine, as alcohol in general is detrimental to a person's health in many ways and suppresses the immune system.
"I always tell my melanoma patients to remain hopeful and vigilant, and see your dermatologist regularly," added Dr. Rogers. "Even if you beat melanoma once, you have an increased risk of getting another one in the future. With melanoma, you can never let your guard down."
Visit www.melanomamonday.org to find out how to perform a skin self-exam, download a body mole map to track changes in your skin and find free skin cancer screenings in your area. For more information on skin cancer, go to the "SkinCancerNet" section of www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
Excessive Sweating Condition Can Cause Skin Infections
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 7 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- People with the excessive sweating condition known as hyperhidrosis already have to deal with a number of life-inhibiting social issues. Sweaty palms or unsightly underarm stains can make simple tasks such as shaking hands or raising an arm extremely embarrassing. According to a new study, people with primary hyperhidrosis also have a higher risk of developing skin infections. Fortunately for those with the condition, appropriate treatment by a dermatologist can control these issues.
For more information about solutions for excessing sweating, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/article_info.php?articles_id=115
In the study entitled, "Primary hyperhidrosis increases the risk of cutaneous infection: A case-control study of 387 patients," published online in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologist Hobart W. Walling, MD, PhD, FAAD, who maintains a private practice in Coralville, IA, found that primary hyperhidrosis patients are more prone to skin infections than those without the condition.
Hyperhidrosis is categorized as either primary (not caused by a separate medical condition or medication) or secondary (caused by an underlying medical condition or medication). Primary hyperhidrosis affects nearly 3 percent of the U.S. population. Symptoms of primary hyperhidrosis include excessive sweating that lasts at least six months with at least two of the following additional characteristics: affects both sides of the body equally, occurs at least once weekly, begins at age 25 or younger, ceases during sleep, and has other family members with the condition.
Dr. Walling and a team of researchers collected medical records for 387 patients who had visited the University of Iowa Department of Dermatology and were diagnosed with primary hyperhidrosis. They also collected records for 410 age- and gender-matched patients who visited the same dermatology department during the same time period and were diagnosed with an unrelated condition.
"Many studies have focused on the social and psychological effects associated with hyperhidrosis, but few studies have focused on the medical consequences of the condition," said Dr. Walling. "Our study set out to examine the physical signs and symptoms of primary hyperhidrosis and to determine the condition's relationship to skin infections in the affected areas."
Of the patients with primary hyperhidrosis, almost three-fifths (58.9%) were female and more than two-fifths (41.1%) were male. More than half of the patients (53.4%) experienced hyperhidrosis in one area of the body, while the remaining patients (46.6%) had multiple affected sites. The most frequently affected sites of hyperhidrosis reported by the patients were the soles (50.1%), followed by the palms (45.2%) and the underarms (43.4%). Other areas affected included the face, scalp, groin and torso, and some reported hyperhidrosis throughout the body.
In addition, a number of the primary hyperhidrosis patients (38.6%) gave information regarding factors that aggravated their condition. Patients noted stress, emotion, anxiety or social situations as the most common (56.7%). Some found that heat or humidity worsened their condition (22%), while others denied any aggravating factors (15.3%).
Dr. Walling and his research team examined the medical records of the primary hyperhidrosis patients in search of coexisting skin infections that affected the areas involved by hyperhidrosis. They then compared these results to the patients without hyperhidrosis who had been diagnosed with a skin infection that affected any area of the body.
The overall risk of developing a skin infection caused by bacteria, fungi or viruses was significantly higher for the patients with primary hyperhidrosis than those without (30% of patients with hyperhidrosis developed a skin infection versus 12.0% of those without). In particular, patients with primary hyperhidrosis had a significantly higher risk of developing a fungal infection in the areas affected by hyperhidrosis (12.1%) than the control group (2.7%). Similarly, the risk of bacterial infection was heightened in primary hyperhidrosis patients (5.4%) versus those in the control group (2.2%) as was the overall risk of viral infection (12.4% of patients versus 7.1% of controls). Also of note, an increased association with atopic or eczematous dermatitis was observed in patients with primary hyperhidrosis (9.3%) versus those without (3.4%).
"The patients in the study waited, on average, nearly nine years after experiencing symptoms of hyperhidrosis before they visited a dermatologist," said Dr. Walling. "It is important that patients know that seeking treatment for hyperhidrosis not only will positively impact their quality of life, but it may help prevent skin infections from occurring and deter other associated complications."
Dr. Walling recommends that if you experience excessive sweating over a prolonged period of time or perspiration that is not triggered by obvious factors, you should consult a dermatologist.
For more information about solutions for excessing sweating, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/article_info.php?articles_id=115
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
For more information about solutions for excessing sweating, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/article_info.php?articles_id=115
In the study entitled, "Primary hyperhidrosis increases the risk of cutaneous infection: A case-control study of 387 patients," published online in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologist Hobart W. Walling, MD, PhD, FAAD, who maintains a private practice in Coralville, IA, found that primary hyperhidrosis patients are more prone to skin infections than those without the condition.
Hyperhidrosis is categorized as either primary (not caused by a separate medical condition or medication) or secondary (caused by an underlying medical condition or medication). Primary hyperhidrosis affects nearly 3 percent of the U.S. population. Symptoms of primary hyperhidrosis include excessive sweating that lasts at least six months with at least two of the following additional characteristics: affects both sides of the body equally, occurs at least once weekly, begins at age 25 or younger, ceases during sleep, and has other family members with the condition.
Dr. Walling and a team of researchers collected medical records for 387 patients who had visited the University of Iowa Department of Dermatology and were diagnosed with primary hyperhidrosis. They also collected records for 410 age- and gender-matched patients who visited the same dermatology department during the same time period and were diagnosed with an unrelated condition.
"Many studies have focused on the social and psychological effects associated with hyperhidrosis, but few studies have focused on the medical consequences of the condition," said Dr. Walling. "Our study set out to examine the physical signs and symptoms of primary hyperhidrosis and to determine the condition's relationship to skin infections in the affected areas."
Of the patients with primary hyperhidrosis, almost three-fifths (58.9%) were female and more than two-fifths (41.1%) were male. More than half of the patients (53.4%) experienced hyperhidrosis in one area of the body, while the remaining patients (46.6%) had multiple affected sites. The most frequently affected sites of hyperhidrosis reported by the patients were the soles (50.1%), followed by the palms (45.2%) and the underarms (43.4%). Other areas affected included the face, scalp, groin and torso, and some reported hyperhidrosis throughout the body.
In addition, a number of the primary hyperhidrosis patients (38.6%) gave information regarding factors that aggravated their condition. Patients noted stress, emotion, anxiety or social situations as the most common (56.7%). Some found that heat or humidity worsened their condition (22%), while others denied any aggravating factors (15.3%).
Dr. Walling and his research team examined the medical records of the primary hyperhidrosis patients in search of coexisting skin infections that affected the areas involved by hyperhidrosis. They then compared these results to the patients without hyperhidrosis who had been diagnosed with a skin infection that affected any area of the body.
The overall risk of developing a skin infection caused by bacteria, fungi or viruses was significantly higher for the patients with primary hyperhidrosis than those without (30% of patients with hyperhidrosis developed a skin infection versus 12.0% of those without). In particular, patients with primary hyperhidrosis had a significantly higher risk of developing a fungal infection in the areas affected by hyperhidrosis (12.1%) than the control group (2.7%). Similarly, the risk of bacterial infection was heightened in primary hyperhidrosis patients (5.4%) versus those in the control group (2.2%) as was the overall risk of viral infection (12.4% of patients versus 7.1% of controls). Also of note, an increased association with atopic or eczematous dermatitis was observed in patients with primary hyperhidrosis (9.3%) versus those without (3.4%).
"The patients in the study waited, on average, nearly nine years after experiencing symptoms of hyperhidrosis before they visited a dermatologist," said Dr. Walling. "It is important that patients know that seeking treatment for hyperhidrosis not only will positively impact their quality of life, but it may help prevent skin infections from occurring and deter other associated complications."
Dr. Walling recommends that if you experience excessive sweating over a prolonged period of time or perspiration that is not triggered by obvious factors, you should consult a dermatologist.
For more information about solutions for excessing sweating, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/article_info.php?articles_id=115
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Number of Women Over Sixty Using Botox is Increasing
MANCHESTER, England, April 25 /PRNewswire/ -A NEW trend in beauty has been seen by staff at Transform, the UK's leading plastic surgeons and non-surgical treatments: the rise of Botox Grannies.
More and more women over 60 are having non-surgical treatments including Botox, dermal fillers and skin peels and treatments, as well as plastic surgery such as breast implants and facelifts.
For more information about Botox at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Encouraged by their daughters and the increasing high profiles and media coverage of amazing looking celebrities who are in their 50s, 60s and 70s, such as Joan Collins, Jane Seymour and Lulu, UK's Botox Grannies are driving a new demand for non-surgical cosmetic treatments.
Plastic Surgery and Botox Grannies
Transform Plastic Surgery, the UK's leading cosmetic surgeons and non-surgical providers, has noticed the number of Botox Grannies double in the last two years and claims that the over 60s market now accounts for over a sixth of all Botox injections carried out across cosmetic treatment clinics nationwide.
Disposable Income & Lifestyle
This group of recently retired have more disposable income than ever before, and, coupled with the increasing profile and popularity of plastic surgery and non-surgical treatments, many women are wondering why they shouldn't treat themselves and ensure they look good in their twilight years.
Celebrity Influence
Recent celebrity photos of Helen Mirren looking amazing in her red bikini have also fuelled the demand for both non-surgical and surgical treatments. Other figures released by Transform Cosmetic Surgery show that the number of breast implants, breast augmentations and face lifts among this generation has increased by a third on the previous year.
Botox & Confidence
Gwen Davies, non-surgical manager at Transform Cosmetic Surgery, explains the benefits of Botox for the over 60s: "There are two types of older women who want to have Botox and dermal fillers: those who have been having treatments subtly for the past 15 years and just want to look fresh and age slowly, and those who are just discovering the benefits. Botox is not a magic cure for deep wrinkles but it can soften lines around the eyes and mouth which can have a fantastic freshening effect on the face.
"Women over 60 who are having treatments tend to be more discreet about what they have done in comparison to their younger counter parts. Women who have looked after themselves and already have good skin would benefit from Botox the most. A small amount of Botox can have a wonderful effect on their appearance and self-confidence."
Shami Thomas from Transform Cosmetic Surgery states: "The number of procedures carried out is continuously rising; even during the credit crunch people still want to look good and are sill happy to spend money on their appearance. People are now living longer than ever before and there are so many high profile older actresses that women want the same effects at home.
"Many older celebrities are also very open about their treatments that they have had done so it is only helping to increase the confidence of potential patients about becoming a British Botox Granny."
Editors Notes
8% of all Transform's Botox patients were over 60 in 2007 and 14% of all Transform's Botox patients were over 60 in 2008
Breast implants and breast augmentations for the over 60s increased by 31% between 2007 and 2008
Face lifts for the over 60s increased by 35% between 2007 and 2008
Transform Cosmetic Surgery Group is Britain's largest and most popular cosmetic surgery group network with over 30 years experience and 26 clinics across the UK
Transform offers a comprehensive and extensive post-operative care programme, which is included in the cost of the treatments. The programme serves to ensure that recovery is as swift and problem free as possible
Transform works with highly qualified and specialist cosmetic surgeons and nursing staff
Transform is a member of the Covenant Healthcare Group
http://www.transforminglives.co.uk
http://www.transforminglives.co.uk/footer/press_enquiries.aspx
For more information about Botox at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
For more information please call Sasha Blake or Emma Trimble @ Brazen PR on 0161 923 4994 or email Sasha@brazenpr.com or emmat@brazenpr.com
This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.
More and more women over 60 are having non-surgical treatments including Botox, dermal fillers and skin peels and treatments, as well as plastic surgery such as breast implants and facelifts.
For more information about Botox at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Encouraged by their daughters and the increasing high profiles and media coverage of amazing looking celebrities who are in their 50s, 60s and 70s, such as Joan Collins, Jane Seymour and Lulu, UK's Botox Grannies are driving a new demand for non-surgical cosmetic treatments.
Plastic Surgery and Botox Grannies
Transform Plastic Surgery, the UK's leading cosmetic surgeons and non-surgical providers, has noticed the number of Botox Grannies double in the last two years and claims that the over 60s market now accounts for over a sixth of all Botox injections carried out across cosmetic treatment clinics nationwide.
Disposable Income & Lifestyle
This group of recently retired have more disposable income than ever before, and, coupled with the increasing profile and popularity of plastic surgery and non-surgical treatments, many women are wondering why they shouldn't treat themselves and ensure they look good in their twilight years.
Celebrity Influence
Recent celebrity photos of Helen Mirren looking amazing in her red bikini have also fuelled the demand for both non-surgical and surgical treatments. Other figures released by Transform Cosmetic Surgery show that the number of breast implants, breast augmentations and face lifts among this generation has increased by a third on the previous year.
Botox & Confidence
Gwen Davies, non-surgical manager at Transform Cosmetic Surgery, explains the benefits of Botox for the over 60s: "There are two types of older women who want to have Botox and dermal fillers: those who have been having treatments subtly for the past 15 years and just want to look fresh and age slowly, and those who are just discovering the benefits. Botox is not a magic cure for deep wrinkles but it can soften lines around the eyes and mouth which can have a fantastic freshening effect on the face.
"Women over 60 who are having treatments tend to be more discreet about what they have done in comparison to their younger counter parts. Women who have looked after themselves and already have good skin would benefit from Botox the most. A small amount of Botox can have a wonderful effect on their appearance and self-confidence."
Shami Thomas from Transform Cosmetic Surgery states: "The number of procedures carried out is continuously rising; even during the credit crunch people still want to look good and are sill happy to spend money on their appearance. People are now living longer than ever before and there are so many high profile older actresses that women want the same effects at home.
"Many older celebrities are also very open about their treatments that they have had done so it is only helping to increase the confidence of potential patients about becoming a British Botox Granny."
Editors Notes
8% of all Transform's Botox patients were over 60 in 2007 and 14% of all Transform's Botox patients were over 60 in 2008
Breast implants and breast augmentations for the over 60s increased by 31% between 2007 and 2008
Face lifts for the over 60s increased by 35% between 2007 and 2008
Transform Cosmetic Surgery Group is Britain's largest and most popular cosmetic surgery group network with over 30 years experience and 26 clinics across the UK
Transform offers a comprehensive and extensive post-operative care programme, which is included in the cost of the treatments. The programme serves to ensure that recovery is as swift and problem free as possible
Transform works with highly qualified and specialist cosmetic surgeons and nursing staff
Transform is a member of the Covenant Healthcare Group
http://www.transforminglives.co.uk
http://www.transforminglives.co.uk/footer/press_enquiries.aspx
For more information about Botox at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
For more information please call Sasha Blake or Emma Trimble @ Brazen PR on 0161 923 4994 or email Sasha@brazenpr.com or emmat@brazenpr.com
This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.
Standardized Scales to Measure the Skin's Aging Introduced
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
LAS VEGAS, May 4 /PRNewswire/ -The Merz Scales, the first standardized, comprehensive rating system to measure the skin's aging process, were introduced today to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at its annual meeting in Las Vegas. Developed by a leading team of multidisciplinary experts to "establish a universal language of aging," The Merz Scales address the unmet need for an educational tool to facilitate communication between physicians and patients. While the scales do not diagnose or treat any particular conditions, they serve as a platform to discuss the aging process.
For more information about Laser Skin Care at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
"The appearance of aging skin is an area of concern for most everyone. Changes in the anatomy of the skin are the most telltale signs of the aging process," said Corey Maas, MD, a Merz Scales' investigator. "Until now, there were no validated standards for objectively measuring the effects of aging on skin. The Merz Scales provide a common language for both patients and physicians to assess the skin's aging process."
The Merz Scales, including A Validated Brow Positioning Grading Scale; A Validated Grading Scale for Forehead Lines; A Validated Lip Fullness Grading Scale; A Validated Grading Scale for Marionette Lines; A Validated Hand Grading Scale; and, A Validated Grading Scale for Crow's Feet, were published in a special issue of Dermatologic Surgery in November 2008. The Merz Scales will be on display at the Scientific Exhibit Viewing Station at the ASAPS annual meeting Saturday, May 2 through Thursday, May 7.
Other scales being developed by Merz Pharmaceuticals include measures for glabellar lines, nasolabial folds, decolletage, and facial volume loss.
About The Merz Scales
A total of nine experts from around the world trained in multiple specialties (including dermatology, ophthalmology, plastic surgery, and dermatologic surgery) came together to create and validate a comprehensive scale system, reviewing and including photographs of men and women of diverse ages, skin types and ethnicities. As part of this process, the experts rated 35 to 50 real-life images of people, and evaluated the images for reproducibility of results.
The Merz Scales were then generated as five-point scales using computer-morphed photography. Specific anatomical changes related to aging were identified and were incorporated into the photographs, and a series of visual guides were developed to correspond to regional areas on the face and hands. When "lines" were formed as a result of the different movements of different muscle groups, such as crow's feet and forehead lines, static and dynamic lines were included. For example, The Forehead Lines Grading Scale was developed to objectively quantify resting (static) and hyperkinetic (dynamic) forehead lines. The scale ratings are 0 for no wrinkles, 1 for no wrinkles present at rest but fine lines with facial expressions, 2 for fine wrinkles present at rest and deep lines with facial expression, 3 for fine wrinkles present at rest and deeper lines with facial expression and 4 for deeper wrinkles at rest and deeper furrows with facial expression.
Every participant graded the scales twice, with an overnight break in between. Intra and interrater variability analysis was performed. The variability analysis also was depicted in a bubble plot, which is an informative way of comparing grading between raters.
For more information about Laser Skin Care at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
About Merz
Merz Pharmaceuticals, part of the Merz group of companies based in Frankfurt Germany, has a 100-year history of compassion and innovation in healthcare. The ongoing development of The Merz Scales represents the company's ongoing, deep commitment to education and research in health and beauty.
Merz plans to bring its commercially successful line of injectable HA (hyaluronic acid) dermal fillers, called Belotero(R) to the U.S. once approved for marketing by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Belotero products are manufactured using a unique production process called Cohesive Polydensified Matrix (CPM) technology. As such, Belotero is the world's first cohesive polydensified monophasic dermal filler. Merz hopes to introduce Belotero dermal fillers to the U.S. market, pending completion of clinical trials and following approval by the FDA.
Source: Merz Pharmaceuticals
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
LAS VEGAS, May 4 /PRNewswire/ -The Merz Scales, the first standardized, comprehensive rating system to measure the skin's aging process, were introduced today to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at its annual meeting in Las Vegas. Developed by a leading team of multidisciplinary experts to "establish a universal language of aging," The Merz Scales address the unmet need for an educational tool to facilitate communication between physicians and patients. While the scales do not diagnose or treat any particular conditions, they serve as a platform to discuss the aging process.
For more information about Laser Skin Care at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
"The appearance of aging skin is an area of concern for most everyone. Changes in the anatomy of the skin are the most telltale signs of the aging process," said Corey Maas, MD, a Merz Scales' investigator. "Until now, there were no validated standards for objectively measuring the effects of aging on skin. The Merz Scales provide a common language for both patients and physicians to assess the skin's aging process."
The Merz Scales, including A Validated Brow Positioning Grading Scale; A Validated Grading Scale for Forehead Lines; A Validated Lip Fullness Grading Scale; A Validated Grading Scale for Marionette Lines; A Validated Hand Grading Scale; and, A Validated Grading Scale for Crow's Feet, were published in a special issue of Dermatologic Surgery in November 2008. The Merz Scales will be on display at the Scientific Exhibit Viewing Station at the ASAPS annual meeting Saturday, May 2 through Thursday, May 7.
Other scales being developed by Merz Pharmaceuticals include measures for glabellar lines, nasolabial folds, decolletage, and facial volume loss.
About The Merz Scales
A total of nine experts from around the world trained in multiple specialties (including dermatology, ophthalmology, plastic surgery, and dermatologic surgery) came together to create and validate a comprehensive scale system, reviewing and including photographs of men and women of diverse ages, skin types and ethnicities. As part of this process, the experts rated 35 to 50 real-life images of people, and evaluated the images for reproducibility of results.
The Merz Scales were then generated as five-point scales using computer-morphed photography. Specific anatomical changes related to aging were identified and were incorporated into the photographs, and a series of visual guides were developed to correspond to regional areas on the face and hands. When "lines" were formed as a result of the different movements of different muscle groups, such as crow's feet and forehead lines, static and dynamic lines were included. For example, The Forehead Lines Grading Scale was developed to objectively quantify resting (static) and hyperkinetic (dynamic) forehead lines. The scale ratings are 0 for no wrinkles, 1 for no wrinkles present at rest but fine lines with facial expressions, 2 for fine wrinkles present at rest and deep lines with facial expression, 3 for fine wrinkles present at rest and deeper lines with facial expression and 4 for deeper wrinkles at rest and deeper furrows with facial expression.
Every participant graded the scales twice, with an overnight break in between. Intra and interrater variability analysis was performed. The variability analysis also was depicted in a bubble plot, which is an informative way of comparing grading between raters.
For more information about Laser Skin Care at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
About Merz
Merz Pharmaceuticals, part of the Merz group of companies based in Frankfurt Germany, has a 100-year history of compassion and innovation in healthcare. The ongoing development of The Merz Scales represents the company's ongoing, deep commitment to education and research in health and beauty.
Merz plans to bring its commercially successful line of injectable HA (hyaluronic acid) dermal fillers, called Belotero(R) to the U.S. once approved for marketing by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Belotero products are manufactured using a unique production process called Cohesive Polydensified Matrix (CPM) technology. As such, Belotero is the world's first cohesive polydensified monophasic dermal filler. Merz hopes to introduce Belotero dermal fillers to the U.S. market, pending completion of clinical trials and following approval by the FDA.
Source: Merz Pharmaceuticals
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
Women Understand Weight Increases Heart Risk Yet 55% Overweight
Washington, DC, May 5, 2009 /PRNewswire/ — Until last year, actress Caitlin Van Zandt of "Guiding Light" and "The Sopranos" was one of the 35 million obese women in the United States,1 causing her to also be one of the 41 million women in this country living with or at risk of heart disease.2 Caitlin was at risk of developing heart disease because she was significantly overweight and had high cholesterol – and she was merely 22 years old. Although Caitlin understood her weight was a concern, she was surprised to learn just how much it could negatively impact her health. And Caitlin is not alone.
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
A recent survey of approximately 1,000 women revealed 97 percent understand being overweight is a significant risk factor for heart disease and losing weight can significantly reduce that risk. Yet, based on self-reported height and weight, 55 percent are overweight, and as such may be at risk for heart disease. So, while women understand their risk of heart disease, many are not taking action to live heart healthy and reduce their risk via weight loss. This may be in part because women do not adequately fear heart disease, which every year kills more women in the United States than any other disease.3 In fact, the survey found that nearly three times as many women fear getting cancer as fear developing heart disease, 61 percent and 21 percent, respectively.
Of the risk factors for heart disease, being significantly overweight has been shown to put a person at higher risk of early heart attack than any other risk factor.4 In fact, overweight people experience heart attacks a decade sooner than "normal" weight people,4 and significantly overweight women with diabetes have a nearly 80 percent chance of developing heart disease.5 Because obesity can lead to heart disease and other serious conditions, obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death in the United States, second only to smoking.6
Once Caitlin understood her weight put her at risk for heart disease, she also feared for her mother, Barbara. Barbara was more than 100 pounds overweight, and she was on medication for high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Scared for each other's health, Caitlin and Barbara shared a heartfelt moment, making the decision to live heart healthy and reduce their heart disease risk by losing weight. During the past year, Caitlin has lost 92 pounds and her cholesterol levels do not require medication, a treatment her physician was considering before she lost the weight. Similarly, Barbara has lost 75 pounds and her cholesterol and blood pressure are under control.
An astonishing 80 percent of women ages 40 to 60 have one or more risk factors, such as excess weight, for heart disease,7 and almost 70 percent of women ages 45 to 74 are overweight or obese.8 These staggering facts are just some of the many reasons why Caitlin and Barbara are sharing their stories as part of the Heartfelt Moments Obesity Health Education Campaign. The campaign aims to educate significantly overweight women regarding their increased risk of heart disease and the importance of reducing this risk through effective weight loss. The campaign is sponsored by Allergan, Inc., developers of the LAP-BAND AP® Adjustable Gastric Banding System, and is initiated in partnership with WomenHeart, a leading nonprofit national organization dedicated to advancing women's heart health.
"It is imperative that women know the risk factors for heart disease, which in addition to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking includes being significantly overweight or obese," said Lisa M. Tate, Chief Executive Officer of WomenHeart. "However, awareness regarding risk factors isn't enough; women need to act now to manage their heart disease risk. In fact, since more than 80 percent of heart disease can be prevented, taking action can make a big difference. And since weight management is a key way to reduce heart disease risk, significantly overweight women should speak with a doctor about effective weight-loss treatment options."
Significantly overweight people often face serious health issues beyond just heart disease, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke.9 However, there is hope; medical research has found that weight loss will help lower blood sugar and blood pressure, and improve lipid levels, all known risk factors for heart disease.10
After years of unsuccessful diet and exercise programs, Caitlin and Barbara lost weight with the assistance of the LAP-BAND AP® Adjustable Gastric Banding System procedure, which is less invasive and has a lower short-term mortality rate than gastric bypass.11 Achieving long-term weight loss can be daunting, particularly for those who are 100 pounds or more overweight. Studies have found that diet and exercise alone fail 95 percent of the time, and people regain as much as two-thirds of the weight within one year and almost all of it within five years.12,13 The new survey showed just how poorly this reality is understood, as 54 percent of obese women surveyed noted diet and exercise as an effective weight-loss method for those 100 pounds overweight.
For Caitlin and Barbara, the weight-loss journey began with a heartfelt moment when they both acknowledged the effect weight was having on their heart health and made a commitment to lose weight together. Unfortunately, many women miss out on the power of this heart-to-heart conversation – the survey found that four out of 10 women do not discuss heart disease risk with their loved ones. But candid conversations can be welcome, as evidenced by the survey, which found that 79 percent of obese women would react positively if a friend or family member spoke to them about their weight.
"This Mother's Day, look at the women in your life – your mother, daughter, granddaughter, sister – and look at yourself. If any of you are significantly overweight, heart disease should be a major health concern. Now is the time to act – have that heartfelt moment and discuss weight as a risk factor for heart disease and what you can do to get your weight under control," said Caitlin, "I want women who are 100 pounds or more overweight to know that there are effective weight-loss treatment options, beyond just diet and exercise, and with the right tools and plan, and support of loved ones, you can take the weight off and live heart healthy."
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
About the Campaign
The Heartfelt Moments Obesity Health Education Campaign provides access to information, resources and tools available on www.HeartfeltMoments.org, including:
Online risk assessment tools women can use to evaluate their own risk of developing heart disease and understand if their weight is putting their health at risk.
Tips and resources to help women have a meaningful conversation about weight and heart disease risk, including a "Heartfelt Moments" discussion guide and sample letters to loved ones.
Information on effective weight-loss treatment options, such as the LAP-BAND AP® System.
About the Survey
WomenHeart and Allergan surveyed 1,001 women regarding their knowledge of heart disease and obesity. The survey was fielded via telephone from March 26-30, 2009 by Yankelovich, a leading consumer research company. Completed interviews are weighted by four variables: age, gender, geographic region and race, to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the total U.S. adult population. The survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percent.
About WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease
WomenHeart is the only national, patient-centered organization dedicated to advancing women's heart health through advocacy, community education and patient support. As the leading voice for the 41 million American women living with or at risk of heart disease, WomenHeart advocates for equal access to quality care and provides information and resources to help women take charge of their heart health. WomenHeart is a nonprofit patient advocacy organization. To learn more about WomenHeart, visit the Web site at www.womenheart.org.
About the LAP-BAND® System
The LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System is the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved adjustable gastric band for use in weight reduction. Used in more than 450,000 procedures worldwide, this reversible surgically implanted device has safely helped severely obese adults successfully achieve and maintain long-term weight loss. The LAP-BAND® System is approved for use with severely obese adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more or for adults with a BMI of at least 35 plus at least one severe obesity-related health condition, such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and asthma. The LAP-BAND AP® System, launched in 2007, is the latest addition of the LAP-BAND® System family. The LAP-BAND AP® System incorporates the proprietary 360º OMNIFORM® technology (soft, pre-curved individual sections) and offers reliability based on advanced technology and proven performance.
® marks owned by Allergan, Inc. All rights reserved.
Media Contact:
Dawn Maniglia
(718) 968-0515 (office)
(917) 862-5444 (cell)
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
A recent survey of approximately 1,000 women revealed 97 percent understand being overweight is a significant risk factor for heart disease and losing weight can significantly reduce that risk. Yet, based on self-reported height and weight, 55 percent are overweight, and as such may be at risk for heart disease. So, while women understand their risk of heart disease, many are not taking action to live heart healthy and reduce their risk via weight loss. This may be in part because women do not adequately fear heart disease, which every year kills more women in the United States than any other disease.3 In fact, the survey found that nearly three times as many women fear getting cancer as fear developing heart disease, 61 percent and 21 percent, respectively.
Of the risk factors for heart disease, being significantly overweight has been shown to put a person at higher risk of early heart attack than any other risk factor.4 In fact, overweight people experience heart attacks a decade sooner than "normal" weight people,4 and significantly overweight women with diabetes have a nearly 80 percent chance of developing heart disease.5 Because obesity can lead to heart disease and other serious conditions, obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death in the United States, second only to smoking.6
Once Caitlin understood her weight put her at risk for heart disease, she also feared for her mother, Barbara. Barbara was more than 100 pounds overweight, and she was on medication for high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Scared for each other's health, Caitlin and Barbara shared a heartfelt moment, making the decision to live heart healthy and reduce their heart disease risk by losing weight. During the past year, Caitlin has lost 92 pounds and her cholesterol levels do not require medication, a treatment her physician was considering before she lost the weight. Similarly, Barbara has lost 75 pounds and her cholesterol and blood pressure are under control.
An astonishing 80 percent of women ages 40 to 60 have one or more risk factors, such as excess weight, for heart disease,7 and almost 70 percent of women ages 45 to 74 are overweight or obese.8 These staggering facts are just some of the many reasons why Caitlin and Barbara are sharing their stories as part of the Heartfelt Moments Obesity Health Education Campaign. The campaign aims to educate significantly overweight women regarding their increased risk of heart disease and the importance of reducing this risk through effective weight loss. The campaign is sponsored by Allergan, Inc., developers of the LAP-BAND AP® Adjustable Gastric Banding System, and is initiated in partnership with WomenHeart, a leading nonprofit national organization dedicated to advancing women's heart health.
"It is imperative that women know the risk factors for heart disease, which in addition to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking includes being significantly overweight or obese," said Lisa M. Tate, Chief Executive Officer of WomenHeart. "However, awareness regarding risk factors isn't enough; women need to act now to manage their heart disease risk. In fact, since more than 80 percent of heart disease can be prevented, taking action can make a big difference. And since weight management is a key way to reduce heart disease risk, significantly overweight women should speak with a doctor about effective weight-loss treatment options."
Significantly overweight people often face serious health issues beyond just heart disease, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke.9 However, there is hope; medical research has found that weight loss will help lower blood sugar and blood pressure, and improve lipid levels, all known risk factors for heart disease.10
After years of unsuccessful diet and exercise programs, Caitlin and Barbara lost weight with the assistance of the LAP-BAND AP® Adjustable Gastric Banding System procedure, which is less invasive and has a lower short-term mortality rate than gastric bypass.11 Achieving long-term weight loss can be daunting, particularly for those who are 100 pounds or more overweight. Studies have found that diet and exercise alone fail 95 percent of the time, and people regain as much as two-thirds of the weight within one year and almost all of it within five years.12,13 The new survey showed just how poorly this reality is understood, as 54 percent of obese women surveyed noted diet and exercise as an effective weight-loss method for those 100 pounds overweight.
For Caitlin and Barbara, the weight-loss journey began with a heartfelt moment when they both acknowledged the effect weight was having on their heart health and made a commitment to lose weight together. Unfortunately, many women miss out on the power of this heart-to-heart conversation – the survey found that four out of 10 women do not discuss heart disease risk with their loved ones. But candid conversations can be welcome, as evidenced by the survey, which found that 79 percent of obese women would react positively if a friend or family member spoke to them about their weight.
"This Mother's Day, look at the women in your life – your mother, daughter, granddaughter, sister – and look at yourself. If any of you are significantly overweight, heart disease should be a major health concern. Now is the time to act – have that heartfelt moment and discuss weight as a risk factor for heart disease and what you can do to get your weight under control," said Caitlin, "I want women who are 100 pounds or more overweight to know that there are effective weight-loss treatment options, beyond just diet and exercise, and with the right tools and plan, and support of loved ones, you can take the weight off and live heart healthy."
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
About the Campaign
The Heartfelt Moments Obesity Health Education Campaign provides access to information, resources and tools available on www.HeartfeltMoments.org, including:
Online risk assessment tools women can use to evaluate their own risk of developing heart disease and understand if their weight is putting their health at risk.
Tips and resources to help women have a meaningful conversation about weight and heart disease risk, including a "Heartfelt Moments" discussion guide and sample letters to loved ones.
Information on effective weight-loss treatment options, such as the LAP-BAND AP® System.
About the Survey
WomenHeart and Allergan surveyed 1,001 women regarding their knowledge of heart disease and obesity. The survey was fielded via telephone from March 26-30, 2009 by Yankelovich, a leading consumer research company. Completed interviews are weighted by four variables: age, gender, geographic region and race, to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the total U.S. adult population. The survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percent.
About WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease
WomenHeart is the only national, patient-centered organization dedicated to advancing women's heart health through advocacy, community education and patient support. As the leading voice for the 41 million American women living with or at risk of heart disease, WomenHeart advocates for equal access to quality care and provides information and resources to help women take charge of their heart health. WomenHeart is a nonprofit patient advocacy organization. To learn more about WomenHeart, visit the Web site at www.womenheart.org.
About the LAP-BAND® System
The LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System is the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved adjustable gastric band for use in weight reduction. Used in more than 450,000 procedures worldwide, this reversible surgically implanted device has safely helped severely obese adults successfully achieve and maintain long-term weight loss. The LAP-BAND® System is approved for use with severely obese adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more or for adults with a BMI of at least 35 plus at least one severe obesity-related health condition, such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and asthma. The LAP-BAND AP® System, launched in 2007, is the latest addition of the LAP-BAND® System family. The LAP-BAND AP® System incorporates the proprietary 360º OMNIFORM® technology (soft, pre-curved individual sections) and offers reliability based on advanced technology and proven performance.
® marks owned by Allergan, Inc. All rights reserved.
Media Contact:
Dawn Maniglia
(718) 968-0515 (office)
(917) 862-5444 (cell)
Do Fad Diets Really Work?
WASHINGTON, April 30 /PRNewswire/ -Spring. It's the time of year when we shed our unhealthy winter habits and renew the weight-loss vows we made back in January in hopes of seeing the numbers on the scale drop. Each year, millions of Americans follow the latest and greatest diet trends and widely publicized information in our quest to lose weight and manage our diets. However, many of the most common diet "truths" are false.
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
"Many women search for the magic bullet to shed extra pounds, but a lot of the most publicized diet trends result in false hope and even potential weight gain," explains registered dietitian Kris Clark, Ph.D., R.D., F.A.C.S.M., Director of Sports Nutrition, The Pennsylvania State University. "Diet myths mislead and deceive women to believe a particular ingredient or diet plan will help them lose weight, when most of these are in fact incorrect and some can even be unhealthy."
A recent national survey(1) finds that more than half of women are currently on or plan to be on a diet within the next one to two months and that 96% of these women fall victim to believing at least one of the most popular and prevalent diet myths. Dr. Clark reveals a few of the popular diet myths to help women become more diet savvy:
Eating at night makes you gain weight. While a full belly might not make for the most restful night of sleep, our bodies don't metabolize food differently in the evening than at other times of the day. Weight gain has nothing to do with when we eat, but rather what we eat and how much.
Avoid high fructose corn syrup to lose weight faster. Recent scientific reviews(2) confirm there is no unique link between high fructose corn syrup and obesity. In fact, high fructose corn syrup is nutritionally the same as sugar, metabolizes in the body similarly and is equally sweet with the same number of calories -only 4 per gram, compared to 9 calories per gram for fats. Dr. Clark adds, "No single food or ingredient is the cause of obesity or weight gain. Eating too many calories and getting too little exercise causes it."
Detox from specific ingredients/food for quick, healthy weight loss. There is no scientific evidence that points to detox dieting being an effective weight loss strategy. Experts agree that moderation is the key to a healthy diet, whereas extreme measures, such as food restriction and fasting, may do more harm than good.
High protein, low carb diets are best for weight loss. A recent Harvard study(3) shows that regardless of protein or carb levels in the diet, total calories count when it comes to weight loss. The research pointed to low-fat and low-carb diets as being nearly identical.
Acai berry is the best new food for losing weight. This so-called "superfood" has recently received tremendous press that promises rapid and dramatic weight loss, but the truth is it has only been proven to be a healthy antioxidant.
More Than Nine in Ten Women Believe at Least Some of the Hype
When asked to identify which diet statements were true, a national survey of 516 women found that 96% of women were unable to correctly identify at least one of the more popular diet strategies as myth. Most women (83%) falsely believed the time of day impacts weight gain and 59% believed certain foods burn more calories during digestion than they contain. Some 53% of the women also incorrectly pointed to high protein, low carb diets as best for weight loss. In addition, 40% erroneously believed it is necessary to eliminate sugar, such as table sugar, honey and high fructose corn syrup to lose weight.
"Myths continue to gain momentum because they appeal to our desire to create shortcuts and make what requires hard work easy," explains Dr. Clark. "But, the real culprit of weight gain is eating too many calories and getting too little exercise on a daily basis."
How to Spot a Diet Myth
To demystify diet fact from fiction, Dr. Clark offers the following advice:
Do your homework. Just because you find a lot of information about a specific diet topic doesn't mean the information is correct. Quality should always trump quantity when it comes to diet data, so check your references and ask a few key questions is the information from a credible source or reputable health expert/organization, is the information current and is there scientific proof that it's effective?
If it sounds too good to be true, it's probably false. If you can only find glowing testimonials and positive remarks about a specific diet plan, then it's likely a misleading promotion. Any legitimate diet strategy will provide both the pros and the cons, so you can make an informed decision with your health professional.
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
Find more science-based information on sweeteners at www.SweetSurprise.com.
The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining (wet milling) industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, ethanol, starch, bioproducts, corn oil, and feed products from corn components such as starch, oil, protein, and fiber.
(1) Kelton Research conducted the phone survey between March 17 and March 23, 2009. Results were collected from a random sample of 516 women ages eighteen and older. Quotas are set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the total U.S. population.
(2) Fulgoni V. 2008. High-fructose corn syrup: everything you wanted to know, but were afraid to ask. Am J Clin Nutr 88(6):1715S. White JS. 2008. Straight talk about high-fructose corn syrup: what it is and what it ain't. Am J Clin Nutr 88(6):1716S-1721S. Melanson KJ, Angelopoulos TJ, Nguyen V, Zukley L, Lowndes J, Rippe JM. 2008. High-fructose corn syrup, energy intake, and appetite regulation. Am J Clin Nutr 88(6):1738S-1744S.
(3) Sacks F. et al. Comparison of Weight-Loss Diets with Different Compositions of Fat, Protein, and Carbohydrates. N Engl J Med
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
"Many women search for the magic bullet to shed extra pounds, but a lot of the most publicized diet trends result in false hope and even potential weight gain," explains registered dietitian Kris Clark, Ph.D., R.D., F.A.C.S.M., Director of Sports Nutrition, The Pennsylvania State University. "Diet myths mislead and deceive women to believe a particular ingredient or diet plan will help them lose weight, when most of these are in fact incorrect and some can even be unhealthy."
A recent national survey(1) finds that more than half of women are currently on or plan to be on a diet within the next one to two months and that 96% of these women fall victim to believing at least one of the most popular and prevalent diet myths. Dr. Clark reveals a few of the popular diet myths to help women become more diet savvy:
Eating at night makes you gain weight. While a full belly might not make for the most restful night of sleep, our bodies don't metabolize food differently in the evening than at other times of the day. Weight gain has nothing to do with when we eat, but rather what we eat and how much.
Avoid high fructose corn syrup to lose weight faster. Recent scientific reviews(2) confirm there is no unique link between high fructose corn syrup and obesity. In fact, high fructose corn syrup is nutritionally the same as sugar, metabolizes in the body similarly and is equally sweet with the same number of calories -only 4 per gram, compared to 9 calories per gram for fats. Dr. Clark adds, "No single food or ingredient is the cause of obesity or weight gain. Eating too many calories and getting too little exercise causes it."
Detox from specific ingredients/food for quick, healthy weight loss. There is no scientific evidence that points to detox dieting being an effective weight loss strategy. Experts agree that moderation is the key to a healthy diet, whereas extreme measures, such as food restriction and fasting, may do more harm than good.
High protein, low carb diets are best for weight loss. A recent Harvard study(3) shows that regardless of protein or carb levels in the diet, total calories count when it comes to weight loss. The research pointed to low-fat and low-carb diets as being nearly identical.
Acai berry is the best new food for losing weight. This so-called "superfood" has recently received tremendous press that promises rapid and dramatic weight loss, but the truth is it has only been proven to be a healthy antioxidant.
More Than Nine in Ten Women Believe at Least Some of the Hype
When asked to identify which diet statements were true, a national survey of 516 women found that 96% of women were unable to correctly identify at least one of the more popular diet strategies as myth. Most women (83%) falsely believed the time of day impacts weight gain and 59% believed certain foods burn more calories during digestion than they contain. Some 53% of the women also incorrectly pointed to high protein, low carb diets as best for weight loss. In addition, 40% erroneously believed it is necessary to eliminate sugar, such as table sugar, honey and high fructose corn syrup to lose weight.
"Myths continue to gain momentum because they appeal to our desire to create shortcuts and make what requires hard work easy," explains Dr. Clark. "But, the real culprit of weight gain is eating too many calories and getting too little exercise on a daily basis."
How to Spot a Diet Myth
To demystify diet fact from fiction, Dr. Clark offers the following advice:
Do your homework. Just because you find a lot of information about a specific diet topic doesn't mean the information is correct. Quality should always trump quantity when it comes to diet data, so check your references and ask a few key questions is the information from a credible source or reputable health expert/organization, is the information current and is there scientific proof that it's effective?
If it sounds too good to be true, it's probably false. If you can only find glowing testimonials and positive remarks about a specific diet plan, then it's likely a misleading promotion. Any legitimate diet strategy will provide both the pros and the cons, so you can make an informed decision with your health professional.
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
Find more science-based information on sweeteners at www.SweetSurprise.com.
The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining (wet milling) industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, ethanol, starch, bioproducts, corn oil, and feed products from corn components such as starch, oil, protein, and fiber.
(1) Kelton Research conducted the phone survey between March 17 and March 23, 2009. Results were collected from a random sample of 516 women ages eighteen and older. Quotas are set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the total U.S. population.
(2) Fulgoni V. 2008. High-fructose corn syrup: everything you wanted to know, but were afraid to ask. Am J Clin Nutr 88(6):1715S. White JS. 2008. Straight talk about high-fructose corn syrup: what it is and what it ain't. Am J Clin Nutr 88(6):1716S-1721S. Melanson KJ, Angelopoulos TJ, Nguyen V, Zukley L, Lowndes J, Rippe JM. 2008. High-fructose corn syrup, energy intake, and appetite regulation. Am J Clin Nutr 88(6):1738S-1744S.
(3) Sacks F. et al. Comparison of Weight-Loss Diets with Different Compositions of Fat, Protein, and Carbohydrates. N Engl J Med
The Last Ten Pounds are the Hardest Pounds To Lose
MIAMI, April 17 /PRNewswire/ -Dr. Sanford Siegal, Medical Director of Miami, Florida-based weight-loss practice, Siegal Medical Group, today confirmed the widely held suspicion among dieters that the most challenging part of reaching a healthful weight is shedding the last ten pounds.
"Losing that last ten pounds is, in fact, the greatest challenge, but it's more complicated than that," said Dr. Siegal. "It's more accurate to say that the next pound is harder to lose than the previous one because, like it or not, the Law of Diminishing Returns applies to weight loss. The more you lose, the harder it is to lose more."
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
In his forthcoming book, Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet Book (Hyde Park Publishers, Ltd.), Dr. Siegal explains that the more one weighs, the more calories he burns just transporting his own weight. As a dieter sheds pounds, the amount of calories he burns simply going about his normal routine decreases.
"One of the great ironies in losing weight is that your own weight helps you lose it," continued Dr. Siegal. "A person who weighs 250 pounds burns many more calories performing the same activity as one who weighs 150 pounds."
According to Dr. Siegal, many overweight people don't recognize that carrying excess fat inside their bodies takes the same amount of energy as carrying around an object of the same weight.
In his practice, in order to put things into perspective for his patients, Dr. Siegal asks them to imagine what their life would be like if they were to strap a fifty pound weight to their body and never take it off except to sit or lie down. In most cases, he says, people recognize the tremendous amount of effort they would have to expend just to go about their normal activities. They have no trouble imagining how taxing it would be to ascend a flight of stairs, take out the trash, or put away the groceries. Yet, while they are able to imagine the consequences of carrying around a heavy weight, few of his patients recognize that they are already doing so.
"Someone who is fifty pounds overweight at 200 pounds uses the same amount of energy to get around as a 150 pound person with a fifty pound weight strapped to her body," continued Dr. Siegal. "Imagine how many extra calories you would burn if you were to lug a fifty pound barbell everywhere you went!"
In his book, and on his web site, CookieDiet.com, Dr. Siegal provides free tools to help people cheat the Law of Diminishing Returns and lose weight at a fast, predictable, and consistent pace, even when they reach the hurdle of the last ten pounds.
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
ABOUT SANFORD SIEGAL, D.O., M.D.
Sanford Siegal, D.O., M.D., is a practicing physician whose South Florida medical practice, Siegal Medical Group, has treated more than 500,000 overweight patients. Although he has achieved notoriety for his books on such subjects as high fiber diets, hunger control without drugs, and hypothyroidism, he is best known as the Cookie Doctor(R) behind the venerable Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET(R) weight-loss program and hunger-controlling foods. Dr. Siegal is frequently in the news and has been profiled by dozens of media including Good Morning America, The New York Times, The Today Show, National Post, and Forbes.
Source: Siegal Medical Group
"Losing that last ten pounds is, in fact, the greatest challenge, but it's more complicated than that," said Dr. Siegal. "It's more accurate to say that the next pound is harder to lose than the previous one because, like it or not, the Law of Diminishing Returns applies to weight loss. The more you lose, the harder it is to lose more."
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
In his forthcoming book, Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet Book (Hyde Park Publishers, Ltd.), Dr. Siegal explains that the more one weighs, the more calories he burns just transporting his own weight. As a dieter sheds pounds, the amount of calories he burns simply going about his normal routine decreases.
"One of the great ironies in losing weight is that your own weight helps you lose it," continued Dr. Siegal. "A person who weighs 250 pounds burns many more calories performing the same activity as one who weighs 150 pounds."
According to Dr. Siegal, many overweight people don't recognize that carrying excess fat inside their bodies takes the same amount of energy as carrying around an object of the same weight.
In his practice, in order to put things into perspective for his patients, Dr. Siegal asks them to imagine what their life would be like if they were to strap a fifty pound weight to their body and never take it off except to sit or lie down. In most cases, he says, people recognize the tremendous amount of effort they would have to expend just to go about their normal activities. They have no trouble imagining how taxing it would be to ascend a flight of stairs, take out the trash, or put away the groceries. Yet, while they are able to imagine the consequences of carrying around a heavy weight, few of his patients recognize that they are already doing so.
"Someone who is fifty pounds overweight at 200 pounds uses the same amount of energy to get around as a 150 pound person with a fifty pound weight strapped to her body," continued Dr. Siegal. "Imagine how many extra calories you would burn if you were to lug a fifty pound barbell everywhere you went!"
In his book, and on his web site, CookieDiet.com, Dr. Siegal provides free tools to help people cheat the Law of Diminishing Returns and lose weight at a fast, predictable, and consistent pace, even when they reach the hurdle of the last ten pounds.
For more information about the hCG Diet at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=191
ABOUT SANFORD SIEGAL, D.O., M.D.
Sanford Siegal, D.O., M.D., is a practicing physician whose South Florida medical practice, Siegal Medical Group, has treated more than 500,000 overweight patients. Although he has achieved notoriety for his books on such subjects as high fiber diets, hunger control without drugs, and hypothyroidism, he is best known as the Cookie Doctor(R) behind the venerable Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET(R) weight-loss program and hunger-controlling foods. Dr. Siegal is frequently in the news and has been profiled by dozens of media including Good Morning America, The New York Times, The Today Show, National Post, and Forbes.
Source: Siegal Medical Group
Allergan Announces BOTOX Cosmetic Express Success Charity
IRVINE, Calif., May 15 /PRNewswire/ -- In honor of working women who have helped make BOTOX(R) Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A) the most popular physician-administered aesthetic treatment for the last seven years, Allergan, Inc. (NYSE: AGN) has announced the "BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success" charitable education campaign. Spearheaded by actress and singer Vanessa Williams, the campaign will benefit the not-for-profit Dress for Success, an organization that helps disadvantaged women succeed in the workforce, through a $250,000 donation from Allergan. The donation will support the organization in its efforts to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
For more information about the Botox at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
"Dress for Success is about more than providing business attire to women in need. Our mission is to change women's lives by enabling them to express success and confidence in their professional endeavors," said Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success. "We're excited to partner with Allergan and Vanessa Williams to raise awareness of Dress for Success."
As part of the donation to Dress for Success, up to $50,000 of the total $250,000 donation will be generated through an online drive, with Allergan donating $2 to the organization on behalf of each of the first 25,000 people who visit and register on the campaign Web site, ExpressSuccessCampaign.com. When pledging support on the Web site, people also can enter to win a trip for two to New York City to have lunch with Vanessa Williams, read Vanessa's personal blog as well as get interview and workplace tips.
In addition to the donation, the "BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success" campaign includes a series of educational events featuring campaign ambassador, Vanessa Williams, Dress for Success CEO Joi Gordon and an aesthetic-specialty physician. The events will take place in select markets across the country where consumers will be able to support Dress for Success by donating nearly new professional attire as a cost of entry, while learning about fast and simple tips for working women, including treatment with BOTOX(R) Cosmetic.
"As a working woman and actress, I know how important it is to 'look the part' when interviewing for a new position or in any professional setting. It's no secret that I receive BOTOX(R) Cosmetic treatments, which is a quick procedure that reduces the two frown lines in between my brows that look like an '11' and give me a tired or stressed appearance," said Ms. Williams. "For me, putting my best face forward means finding ways to help other women express their own success, personally and professionally. That's why I'm so excited to be involved with the 'BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success' campaign benefiting Dress for Success, which has helped more than 500,000 women prepare for, find and keep the job that ultimately leads to financial independence. There is truly no better time to get involved than now, so I ask all women to join our efforts by pledging their support online, joining us at our local events and participating in our New York City launch event."
Vanessa Williams will host the "BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success" campaign launch event with Allergan and Dress for Success on June 30 in New York City's Union Square. The event includes a celebrity "Rack Relay Race" and clothing drive. The public is invited to join Vanessa in the race by donating nearly new professional clothing and registering to race on ExpressSuccessCampaign.com. The first 100 people to pre-register online and participate in the "Rack Relay Race" will receive a certificate for a physician consultation and, if appropriate, a complimentary BOTOX(R) Cosmetic treatment from a licensed and trained aesthetic-specialty physician. The winning "Rack Relay Race" team also will win an opportunity to have lunch with Vanessa Williams in New York City.
Additional information about the launch and local events is available on the campaign Web site which also features an inspiring animated video featuring Vanessa Williams and three Dress for Success graduates directed by Dex Deboree, a highly acclaimed Grammy(R)-award nominee.
"We are pleased to launch the 'BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success' campaign on behalf of the women who have helped make BOTOX(R) Cosmetic the most popular physician administered treatment over the past seven years," said Robert Grant, president of Allergan Medical, a division of Allergan, Inc. "During this time, Allergan has developed many programs to educate women about the product, especially the importance of seeing a licensed and trained physician. Through this campaign, Allergan also will be realizing the important philanthropic goal of helping disadvantaged women around the country fulfill their professional potential and express their success. It's a first of its kind campaign for BOTOX(R) Cosmetic and we are proud to be partnering with both Dress for Success and Vanessa Williams on this important mission."
For more information about BOTOX(R) Cosmetic and the "BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success" campaign, please visit www.ExpressSuccessCampaign.com.
About BOTOX(R) Cosmetic
BOTOX(R) Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002 for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines (the vertical "frown lines" between the eyebrows) in adult women and men ages 18 to 65. The glabellar lines, which often look like the number "11," can have a negative effect on one's overall facial appearance by creating a sad, angry, or tired impression.
BOTOX(R) Cosmetic has been ranked as the number one physician-administered, aesthetic injectable treatment(2) and 11.8 million treatment sessions with BOTOX(R) Cosmetic have been recorded in the United States alone.(3) High patient satisfaction rates following treatment with BOTOX(R) Cosmetic have been well established with 97 percent of patients indicating satisfaction with the product, according to a survey of approximately 1,000 patients conducted by the research arm of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).(4)
Important BOTOX(R) Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A) Information
BOTOX(R) Cosmetic is approved for the temporary treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the brows in people ages 18 to 65.
For more information about the Botox at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Important Safety Information
BOTOX(R) Cosmetic injections should not be given to people who have an infection where the physician proposes to inject. They should not be given to people who are known to be sensitive to any ingredient in BOTOX(R) Cosmetic.
Serious heart problems and serious allergic reactions have been reported rarely. If you think you are having an allergic reaction or other reactions, such as difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing, call your doctor immediately. The most common side effects following injection include temporary eyelid droop and nausea. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection. Patients with certain neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.
The FDA on April 30, 2009, in its update to the early communication sent in 2008, gave the following recommendations:
* Understand that dosage strength (potency) expressed in "Units" or "U" are different among the botulinum toxin products; clinical doses expressed in units are not interchangeable from one botulinum toxin product to another. * Be alert to and educate patients and caregivers about potential adverse events due to distant spread of botulinum toxin effects following local injections including: unexpected loss of strength or muscle weakness, hoarseness or trouble talking (dysphonia), trouble saying words clearly (dysarthria), loss of bladder control, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, double vision, blurred vision and drooping eyelids. * Understand that these adverse events have been reported as early as several hours and as late as several weeks after treatment. * Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if they develop any of these symptoms.
About Dress for Success
Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to more than 90 cities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, the UK and the West Indies. To date, Dress for Success has helped more than 500,000 women work towards self-sufficiency. Visit http://www.dressforsuccess.org to learn more.
About Vanessa Williams:
Vanessa Williams has achieved success in every area of entertainment, including the worlds of music, theatre, film and television. She has sold millions of albums, earning multiple Grammy(R) Award nominations and countless other awards and honors. She has starred in numerous films, television and Broadway productions and has won or been nominated for the Emmy(R), Golden Globe(R) and Screen Actors Guild(R) awards and has won two NAACP Image Awards for her role as the deliciously wicked Wilhelmina Slater on the hit ABC series, "Ugly Betty." Concord Records will release her 13th album, "The Real Thing" in June and she recently appeared in the box-office hit, "Hannah Montana: The Movie."
About Allergan, Inc.
Founded in 1950, Allergan, Inc., with headquarters in Irvine, California, is a multi-specialty health care company that discovers, develops and commercializes innovative pharmaceuticals, biologics and medical devices that enable people to live life to its greatest potential - to see more clearly, move more freely, express themselves more fully. The Company employs more than 8,000 people worldwide operates state-of-the-art R&D facilities and world-class manufacturing plants. In addition to its discovery-to-development research organization, Allergan has global marketing and sales capabilities with a presence in more than 100 countries.
For more information about the Botox at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
"Dress for Success is about more than providing business attire to women in need. Our mission is to change women's lives by enabling them to express success and confidence in their professional endeavors," said Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success. "We're excited to partner with Allergan and Vanessa Williams to raise awareness of Dress for Success."
As part of the donation to Dress for Success, up to $50,000 of the total $250,000 donation will be generated through an online drive, with Allergan donating $2 to the organization on behalf of each of the first 25,000 people who visit and register on the campaign Web site, ExpressSuccessCampaign.com. When pledging support on the Web site, people also can enter to win a trip for two to New York City to have lunch with Vanessa Williams, read Vanessa's personal blog as well as get interview and workplace tips.
In addition to the donation, the "BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success" campaign includes a series of educational events featuring campaign ambassador, Vanessa Williams, Dress for Success CEO Joi Gordon and an aesthetic-specialty physician. The events will take place in select markets across the country where consumers will be able to support Dress for Success by donating nearly new professional attire as a cost of entry, while learning about fast and simple tips for working women, including treatment with BOTOX(R) Cosmetic.
"As a working woman and actress, I know how important it is to 'look the part' when interviewing for a new position or in any professional setting. It's no secret that I receive BOTOX(R) Cosmetic treatments, which is a quick procedure that reduces the two frown lines in between my brows that look like an '11' and give me a tired or stressed appearance," said Ms. Williams. "For me, putting my best face forward means finding ways to help other women express their own success, personally and professionally. That's why I'm so excited to be involved with the 'BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success' campaign benefiting Dress for Success, which has helped more than 500,000 women prepare for, find and keep the job that ultimately leads to financial independence. There is truly no better time to get involved than now, so I ask all women to join our efforts by pledging their support online, joining us at our local events and participating in our New York City launch event."
Vanessa Williams will host the "BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success" campaign launch event with Allergan and Dress for Success on June 30 in New York City's Union Square. The event includes a celebrity "Rack Relay Race" and clothing drive. The public is invited to join Vanessa in the race by donating nearly new professional clothing and registering to race on ExpressSuccessCampaign.com. The first 100 people to pre-register online and participate in the "Rack Relay Race" will receive a certificate for a physician consultation and, if appropriate, a complimentary BOTOX(R) Cosmetic treatment from a licensed and trained aesthetic-specialty physician. The winning "Rack Relay Race" team also will win an opportunity to have lunch with Vanessa Williams in New York City.
Additional information about the launch and local events is available on the campaign Web site which also features an inspiring animated video featuring Vanessa Williams and three Dress for Success graduates directed by Dex Deboree, a highly acclaimed Grammy(R)-award nominee.
"We are pleased to launch the 'BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success' campaign on behalf of the women who have helped make BOTOX(R) Cosmetic the most popular physician administered treatment over the past seven years," said Robert Grant, president of Allergan Medical, a division of Allergan, Inc. "During this time, Allergan has developed many programs to educate women about the product, especially the importance of seeing a licensed and trained physician. Through this campaign, Allergan also will be realizing the important philanthropic goal of helping disadvantaged women around the country fulfill their professional potential and express their success. It's a first of its kind campaign for BOTOX(R) Cosmetic and we are proud to be partnering with both Dress for Success and Vanessa Williams on this important mission."
For more information about BOTOX(R) Cosmetic and the "BOTOX(R) Cosmetic: Express Success" campaign, please visit www.ExpressSuccessCampaign.com.
About BOTOX(R) Cosmetic
BOTOX(R) Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002 for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines (the vertical "frown lines" between the eyebrows) in adult women and men ages 18 to 65. The glabellar lines, which often look like the number "11," can have a negative effect on one's overall facial appearance by creating a sad, angry, or tired impression.
BOTOX(R) Cosmetic has been ranked as the number one physician-administered, aesthetic injectable treatment(2) and 11.8 million treatment sessions with BOTOX(R) Cosmetic have been recorded in the United States alone.(3) High patient satisfaction rates following treatment with BOTOX(R) Cosmetic have been well established with 97 percent of patients indicating satisfaction with the product, according to a survey of approximately 1,000 patients conducted by the research arm of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).(4)
Important BOTOX(R) Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A) Information
BOTOX(R) Cosmetic is approved for the temporary treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the brows in people ages 18 to 65.
For more information about the Botox at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Important Safety Information
BOTOX(R) Cosmetic injections should not be given to people who have an infection where the physician proposes to inject. They should not be given to people who are known to be sensitive to any ingredient in BOTOX(R) Cosmetic.
Serious heart problems and serious allergic reactions have been reported rarely. If you think you are having an allergic reaction or other reactions, such as difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing, call your doctor immediately. The most common side effects following injection include temporary eyelid droop and nausea. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection. Patients with certain neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.
The FDA on April 30, 2009, in its update to the early communication sent in 2008, gave the following recommendations:
* Understand that dosage strength (potency) expressed in "Units" or "U" are different among the botulinum toxin products; clinical doses expressed in units are not interchangeable from one botulinum toxin product to another. * Be alert to and educate patients and caregivers about potential adverse events due to distant spread of botulinum toxin effects following local injections including: unexpected loss of strength or muscle weakness, hoarseness or trouble talking (dysphonia), trouble saying words clearly (dysarthria), loss of bladder control, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, double vision, blurred vision and drooping eyelids. * Understand that these adverse events have been reported as early as several hours and as late as several weeks after treatment. * Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if they develop any of these symptoms.
About Dress for Success
Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to more than 90 cities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, the UK and the West Indies. To date, Dress for Success has helped more than 500,000 women work towards self-sufficiency. Visit http://www.dressforsuccess.org to learn more.
About Vanessa Williams:
Vanessa Williams has achieved success in every area of entertainment, including the worlds of music, theatre, film and television. She has sold millions of albums, earning multiple Grammy(R) Award nominations and countless other awards and honors. She has starred in numerous films, television and Broadway productions and has won or been nominated for the Emmy(R), Golden Globe(R) and Screen Actors Guild(R) awards and has won two NAACP Image Awards for her role as the deliciously wicked Wilhelmina Slater on the hit ABC series, "Ugly Betty." Concord Records will release her 13th album, "The Real Thing" in June and she recently appeared in the box-office hit, "Hannah Montana: The Movie."
About Allergan, Inc.
Founded in 1950, Allergan, Inc., with headquarters in Irvine, California, is a multi-specialty health care company that discovers, develops and commercializes innovative pharmaceuticals, biologics and medical devices that enable people to live life to its greatest potential - to see more clearly, move more freely, express themselves more fully. The Company employs more than 8,000 people worldwide operates state-of-the-art R&D facilities and world-class manufacturing plants. In addition to its discovery-to-development research organization, Allergan has global marketing and sales capabilities with a presence in more than 100 countries.
Most People Think They Look Younger Than They Actually Are
FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., May 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Age may just be a number according to a recent survey conducted by American Laser Centers, the largest provider of non-invasive aesthetic services in the U.S.
The majority of people surveyed (55%) think they look younger than their actual age, while only 9 percent of respondents said they think they look older. More women (58%) than men (48%) think they look younger than their age.
In addition, women appear to be more interested in looking younger than men as 64 percent of women surveyed said they would like to look younger than their actual age compared to 51 percent of men who said they would like to look younger.
The survey also uncovered that the desire to look younger begins after age 25. While 70 percent of people surveyed in the 18-24 age range would like to look "about their age" the trend shifts as you enter the 25-29 age range with more than half of the respondents (51%) expressing they would like to look younger. This trend continued to strengthen as the age of the person surveyed increased. Interestingly, half of all people surveyed (50%) would choose to look like they were in their "20s" if they had a choice.
At 83 percent, Baby Boomers strongly expressed that they would like to look younger than their age, however, many appear to be doing just that as 62 percent said they think they look younger than their age. About one third (31%) of all Baby Boomers surveyed believe they look approximately 10 years younger than their actual age.
24% of 45-50 year olds think they look like they are in their late thirties
38% of 51-54 year olds think they look like they are in their mid forties
30% of 55-60 year olds think they look like they are in their mid forties
33% of 61-63 year olds think they look like they are in their early fifties
Surprisingly, the top reasons people surveyed think they've stayed or become better looking as they've aged have less to do with their physical body and more to do with maturity and mindset:
66% cited a healthier self image
50% cited they are more stylish
46% care less about what people think
28% cited weight loss
15% cited a cosmetic procedure
6% cited weight gain
6% cited plastic surgery
There were approximately 575 total respondents to the independent electronic survey. Complete results can be downloaded at www.americanlaser.com/survey/survey.pdf.
American Laser Centers is the largest and most successful provider of laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation and cellulite reduction therapy, with more than 220 locations in the United States. The company has performed more than two million aesthetic treatments since its founding in 2002. American Laser Centers offers clients laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, body contouring and cellulite reduction therapy treatments using state-of-the-art-technology under a doctor-supervised regimen. American Laser Centers is proud to offer the industry's only written two-year guarantee for laser hair removal. For a complete list of offerings, visit www.americanlaser.com.
SOURCE American Laser Centers
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
The majority of people surveyed (55%) think they look younger than their actual age, while only 9 percent of respondents said they think they look older. More women (58%) than men (48%) think they look younger than their age.
In addition, women appear to be more interested in looking younger than men as 64 percent of women surveyed said they would like to look younger than their actual age compared to 51 percent of men who said they would like to look younger.
The survey also uncovered that the desire to look younger begins after age 25. While 70 percent of people surveyed in the 18-24 age range would like to look "about their age" the trend shifts as you enter the 25-29 age range with more than half of the respondents (51%) expressing they would like to look younger. This trend continued to strengthen as the age of the person surveyed increased. Interestingly, half of all people surveyed (50%) would choose to look like they were in their "20s" if they had a choice.
At 83 percent, Baby Boomers strongly expressed that they would like to look younger than their age, however, many appear to be doing just that as 62 percent said they think they look younger than their age. About one third (31%) of all Baby Boomers surveyed believe they look approximately 10 years younger than their actual age.
24% of 45-50 year olds think they look like they are in their late thirties
38% of 51-54 year olds think they look like they are in their mid forties
30% of 55-60 year olds think they look like they are in their mid forties
33% of 61-63 year olds think they look like they are in their early fifties
Surprisingly, the top reasons people surveyed think they've stayed or become better looking as they've aged have less to do with their physical body and more to do with maturity and mindset:
66% cited a healthier self image
50% cited they are more stylish
46% care less about what people think
28% cited weight loss
15% cited a cosmetic procedure
6% cited weight gain
6% cited plastic surgery
There were approximately 575 total respondents to the independent electronic survey. Complete results can be downloaded at www.americanlaser.com/survey/survey.pdf.
American Laser Centers is the largest and most successful provider of laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation and cellulite reduction therapy, with more than 220 locations in the United States. The company has performed more than two million aesthetic treatments since its founding in 2002. American Laser Centers offers clients laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, body contouring and cellulite reduction therapy treatments using state-of-the-art-technology under a doctor-supervised regimen. American Laser Centers is proud to offer the industry's only written two-year guarantee for laser hair removal. For a complete list of offerings, visit www.americanlaser.com.
SOURCE American Laser Centers
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
Think Before You Ink: Are Tattoos Safe?
Think Before You Ink: Are Tattoos Safe?
As the popularity of tattoos continues to grow, so does the concern about potential risks. Some risks, such as the spread of infections through the use of unsterilized needles, have long been known. But what isn't clear is the safety of tattoo inks.
For more information about the Laser Tattoo Removal at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=179
Permanent tattoos are made by using needles to inject colored ink below the skin's surface. Permanent make-up is considered a permanent tattoo that mimics the results of cosmetic products such as an eyebrow pencil, lip liner, eyeliner, or blush.
While state and local authorities oversee the practice of tattooing, ink and ink colorings (pigments) used in tattoos are subject to FDA regulation as cosmetics and color additives. However, because of other public health priorities and a previous lack of evidence of safety concerns, FDA has not traditionally regulated tattoo inks or the pigments used in them.
FDA has received reports of bad reactions to tattoo inks right after tattooing or even years later. Some people report itchy or inflamed skin around their tattoos in the summer when they've been out in the sun. Recent reports associated with permanent make-up inks have prompted FDA to study tattoo ink safety.
"Our hope is to get a better understanding of the body's response to tattoos and their impact on human health, and to identify products at greatest risk," says Linda Katz, M.D., M.P.H., Director of FDA's Office of Cosmetics and Colors in the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.
What are the Risks?
Infection – Dirty needles can pass infections, like hepatitis and HIV, from one person to another.
Allergies – Allergies to various ink pigments in both permanent and temporary tattoos have been reported and can cause problems.
Scarring – Unwanted scar tissue may form when getting or removing a tattoo.
Granulomas – These small knots or bumps may form around material that the body perceives as foreign, such as particles of tattoo pigment.
MRI complications – People may have swelling or burning in the tattoo when they have magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This happens rarely and does not last long.
Tattoo Ink Research
In a laboratory within FDA's Arkansas-based National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), research chemist Paul Howard, Ph.D., and his team are investigating tattoo inks to find out
the chemical composition of the inks and how they break down (metabolize) in the body;
the short-term and long-term safety of pigments used in tattoo inks;
how the body responds to the interaction of light with the inks.
"There have been no systematic studies of the safety of tattoo inks," says Howard, "so we are trying to ask—and answer—some fundamental questions." For example, some tattoos fade over time or fade when they are exposed to sunlight. And laser light is used to remove tattoos. "We want to know what happens to the ink," says Howard. "Where does the pigment go?"
NCTR researchers are exploring several possibilities:
The body cells may digest and destroy the ink, just as they rid the body of bacteria and other foreign matter as a defense against infection. NCTR studies show that a common pigment used in yellow tattoo inks, Pigment Yellow 74, may be broken down by enzymes, or metabolized. "Just like the body metabolizes and excretes other substances, the body may metabolize small amounts of the tattoo pigment to make it more water soluble, and out it goes," says Howard.
Sunlight may cause the ink to break down so it is less visible. NCTR researchers have found that Pigment Yellow 74 decomposes in sunlight, breaking down into components that are colorless. The pigment components may still be there, says Howard, and we don't know if these are potentially toxic.
The skin cells containing the ink may be killed by sunlight or laser light and ink breakdown products may disperse through the body.
Research has also shown that some pigment migrates from the tattoo site to the body's lymph nodes, says Howard. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, a collection of fluid-carrying vessels in the body that filter out disease-causing organisms. Whether the migration of tattoo ink has health consequences or not is still unknown. NCTR is doing further research to answer this and other questions about the safety of tattoo inks.
Tattoo Tips for Consumers
Ink:
FDA has not approved any tattoo pigments for injection into the skin. This applies to all tattoo pigments, including those used for ultravioloet (UV) and glow-in-the dark tattoos. Many pigments used in tattoo inks are industrial-grade colors suitable for printers' ink or automobile paint.
The use of henna in temporary tattoos has not been approved by FDA. Henna is approved only for use as a hair dye.
Permanence:
Consider tattoos permanent. Removal is time-consuming, costly, and doesn't always work. The most common method of tattoo removal is by laser treatment, which delivers short flashes of light at very high intensities to the skin to break down the tattoo ink. FDA allows several types of lasers to be marketed for tattoo removal. Some color inks are harder to remove than others. Many repeat visits every several weeks may be required to remove a tattoo, and it may never be entirely gone.
Do not buy or order online do-it-yourself tattoo removal products. These acid-based products are not FDA-approved and can cause bad skin reactions.
Consult your health care provider—not a tattoo parlor—if you want a tattoo removed. The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery can help you find a doctor experienced in tattoo removal.
For more information about the Laser Tattoo Removal at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=179
Don't Avoid an MRI:
If you need to have an MRI done, don't avoid it. Inform the radiologist or technician that you have a tattoo so appropriate precautions can be taken.
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Health Information Web page (www.fda.gov/consumer), which features the latest updates on FDA-regulated products. Sign up for free e-mail subscriptions at www.fda.gov/consumer/consumerenews.html.
For More Information
Protect Your Health
Joint FDA/WebMD resource
www.webmd.com/fda
www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/tattoos.html
As the popularity of tattoos continues to grow, so does the concern about potential risks. Some risks, such as the spread of infections through the use of unsterilized needles, have long been known. But what isn't clear is the safety of tattoo inks.
For more information about the Laser Tattoo Removal at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=179
Permanent tattoos are made by using needles to inject colored ink below the skin's surface. Permanent make-up is considered a permanent tattoo that mimics the results of cosmetic products such as an eyebrow pencil, lip liner, eyeliner, or blush.
While state and local authorities oversee the practice of tattooing, ink and ink colorings (pigments) used in tattoos are subject to FDA regulation as cosmetics and color additives. However, because of other public health priorities and a previous lack of evidence of safety concerns, FDA has not traditionally regulated tattoo inks or the pigments used in them.
FDA has received reports of bad reactions to tattoo inks right after tattooing or even years later. Some people report itchy or inflamed skin around their tattoos in the summer when they've been out in the sun. Recent reports associated with permanent make-up inks have prompted FDA to study tattoo ink safety.
"Our hope is to get a better understanding of the body's response to tattoos and their impact on human health, and to identify products at greatest risk," says Linda Katz, M.D., M.P.H., Director of FDA's Office of Cosmetics and Colors in the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.
What are the Risks?
Infection – Dirty needles can pass infections, like hepatitis and HIV, from one person to another.
Allergies – Allergies to various ink pigments in both permanent and temporary tattoos have been reported and can cause problems.
Scarring – Unwanted scar tissue may form when getting or removing a tattoo.
Granulomas – These small knots or bumps may form around material that the body perceives as foreign, such as particles of tattoo pigment.
MRI complications – People may have swelling or burning in the tattoo when they have magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This happens rarely and does not last long.
Tattoo Ink Research
In a laboratory within FDA's Arkansas-based National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), research chemist Paul Howard, Ph.D., and his team are investigating tattoo inks to find out
the chemical composition of the inks and how they break down (metabolize) in the body;
the short-term and long-term safety of pigments used in tattoo inks;
how the body responds to the interaction of light with the inks.
"There have been no systematic studies of the safety of tattoo inks," says Howard, "so we are trying to ask—and answer—some fundamental questions." For example, some tattoos fade over time or fade when they are exposed to sunlight. And laser light is used to remove tattoos. "We want to know what happens to the ink," says Howard. "Where does the pigment go?"
NCTR researchers are exploring several possibilities:
The body cells may digest and destroy the ink, just as they rid the body of bacteria and other foreign matter as a defense against infection. NCTR studies show that a common pigment used in yellow tattoo inks, Pigment Yellow 74, may be broken down by enzymes, or metabolized. "Just like the body metabolizes and excretes other substances, the body may metabolize small amounts of the tattoo pigment to make it more water soluble, and out it goes," says Howard.
Sunlight may cause the ink to break down so it is less visible. NCTR researchers have found that Pigment Yellow 74 decomposes in sunlight, breaking down into components that are colorless. The pigment components may still be there, says Howard, and we don't know if these are potentially toxic.
The skin cells containing the ink may be killed by sunlight or laser light and ink breakdown products may disperse through the body.
Research has also shown that some pigment migrates from the tattoo site to the body's lymph nodes, says Howard. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, a collection of fluid-carrying vessels in the body that filter out disease-causing organisms. Whether the migration of tattoo ink has health consequences or not is still unknown. NCTR is doing further research to answer this and other questions about the safety of tattoo inks.
Tattoo Tips for Consumers
Ink:
FDA has not approved any tattoo pigments for injection into the skin. This applies to all tattoo pigments, including those used for ultravioloet (UV) and glow-in-the dark tattoos. Many pigments used in tattoo inks are industrial-grade colors suitable for printers' ink or automobile paint.
The use of henna in temporary tattoos has not been approved by FDA. Henna is approved only for use as a hair dye.
Permanence:
Consider tattoos permanent. Removal is time-consuming, costly, and doesn't always work. The most common method of tattoo removal is by laser treatment, which delivers short flashes of light at very high intensities to the skin to break down the tattoo ink. FDA allows several types of lasers to be marketed for tattoo removal. Some color inks are harder to remove than others. Many repeat visits every several weeks may be required to remove a tattoo, and it may never be entirely gone.
Do not buy or order online do-it-yourself tattoo removal products. These acid-based products are not FDA-approved and can cause bad skin reactions.
Consult your health care provider—not a tattoo parlor—if you want a tattoo removed. The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery can help you find a doctor experienced in tattoo removal.
For more information about the Laser Tattoo Removal at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=179
Don't Avoid an MRI:
If you need to have an MRI done, don't avoid it. Inform the radiologist or technician that you have a tattoo so appropriate precautions can be taken.
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Health Information Web page (www.fda.gov/consumer), which features the latest updates on FDA-regulated products. Sign up for free e-mail subscriptions at www.fda.gov/consumer/consumerenews.html.
For More Information
Protect Your Health
Joint FDA/WebMD resource
www.webmd.com/fda
www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/tattoos.html
FDA On Wrinkle Relief: Injectable Cosmetic Fillers
In the quest for youth—or at least a more youthful appearance—women and men are seeking treatments to minimize laugh lines, crow's feet, and forehead furrows. A popular treatment involves injecting cosmetic wrinkle fillers into the face.
For more information about the Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
Injectable cosmetic wrinkle fillers are soft tissue fillers approved as medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These devices are injected into the skin to help fill in facial wrinkles, restoring a smoother appearance. Most of these wrinkle fillers are temporary because they are eventually absorbed by the body.
Some people may need more than one injection to achieve the wrinkle-smoothing effect. The effect lasts for about six months or longer.
Successful results depend on
health of the skin
skill of the doctor
type of filler used
Uses
FDA has approved absorbable injectable cosmetic wrinkle fillers for correcting soft tissue contour defects, such as moderate and severe wrinkles and folds. Some absorbable fillers are approved for restoring or correcting the signs of facial fat loss in people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
The only non-absorbable FDA-approved injectable cosmetic wrinkle filler is for correcting facial tissue around the mouth.
FDA-approved cosmetic wrinkle fillers should not be used for
plumping the lips (lip augmentation)
increasing breast size (breast augmentation)
implanting into bone, tendon, ligament, or muscle
implanting into blood vessels
Filler Materials
Wrinkle fillers are made of various types of materials, and some include a combination of products. Some products also contain lidocaine, which numbs the skin at the injection site.
The materials used in injectable cosmetic wrinkle fillers include
Temporary (absorbable) fillers
Collagen injections are made of highly purified cow or human collagen. Collagen is a natural protein that is a major component of skin and other tissues in the body.
Hyaluronic acid gel is a protective lubricating gel, produced naturally by the body, that binds with water to plump the skin.
Calcium hydroxylapatite is a mineral that is a major component of bone. Calcium hydroxylapatite is a well-matched (biocompatible) material that dissolves in the body (biodegradable) and is implanted in the form of a gel.
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biodegradable, biocompatible, synthetic material from the alpha-hydroxy-acid family that has been widely used for many years in dissolvable stitches and bone screws.
Permanent (non-absorbable) filler
Polymethylmethacrylate beads (PMMA microspheres) are tiny round, smooth plastic particles that have been tested to be biocompatible. They are not absorbed by the body.
Risks
Getting injected with cosmetic wrinkle fillers is an elective procedure. As with any medical procedure, it poses risks.
Possible side effects include
infection
Bruising
redness
swelling
pain
tenderness
itching and rash
raised bumps of skin (nodules or granulomas) that may need to be surgically removed
death of skin, which may cause disfiguration, if the cosmetic wrinkle filler is injected and blocks a blood vessel
sore (abscess) at the injection site
wrinkle filler that breaks through the skin
open or draining wounds
blurred vision and flu-like symptoms
increased allergic reaction that may lead to a severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock) that requires emergency medical help. (Your doctor may request a pre-treatment allergy test to determine if you are allergic to the filler.)
Most side effects occur shortly after injection and go away within seven days. In some cases, side effects may emerge weeks, months, or years later. A non-absorbable filler may cause long-term side effects.
You should not use cosmetic wrinkle fillers if any of the following applies to you:
severe allergies marked by a history of anaphylactic shock
allergy to cow collagen or eggs
allergy to lidocaine
inflamed or infected skin
prone to form excessive scarring (keloid) or thick scarring (hypertrophic scars)
bleeding disorder
active inflammatory condition (cysts, pimples, rashes or hives) or infection; you should postpone treatment until the condition is controlled.
Tips for Consumers
Before deciding to get injected with a cosmetic wrinkle filler:
Be aware that the safety of these products is unknown for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women or in patients under 18 years of age.
Be aware that the safety is unknown when these products are used with Botox or other wrinkle therapies.
Be aware that the safety of these fillers has only been studied when used in the face.
Know the type of product that will be injected and all of its possible side effects.
Discuss fillers with a doctor who can refer you to a specialist in the fields of dermatology and aesthetic plastic surgery.
Select a doctor who is trained to do the procedure. (You may want to contact the American Academy of Dermatology at www.aad.org or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at www.surgery.org.)
Have realistic expectations about the benefits you want to achieve and discuss them with your doctor.
For more information about the Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Health Information Web page (www.fda.gov/consumer), which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products. Sign up for free e-mail subscriptions at www.fda.gov/consumer/consumerenews.html.
What About Botox?
Botox Cosmetic is an injectable drug, but it is not a wrinkle filler. Instead of filling the wrinkle, it keeps muscles from tightening so the wrinkles don’t show as much. FDA has approved Botox Cosmetic only to treat wrinkles between the eyebrows.
For more information about the Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
Injectable cosmetic wrinkle fillers are soft tissue fillers approved as medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These devices are injected into the skin to help fill in facial wrinkles, restoring a smoother appearance. Most of these wrinkle fillers are temporary because they are eventually absorbed by the body.
Some people may need more than one injection to achieve the wrinkle-smoothing effect. The effect lasts for about six months or longer.
Successful results depend on
health of the skin
skill of the doctor
type of filler used
Uses
FDA has approved absorbable injectable cosmetic wrinkle fillers for correcting soft tissue contour defects, such as moderate and severe wrinkles and folds. Some absorbable fillers are approved for restoring or correcting the signs of facial fat loss in people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
The only non-absorbable FDA-approved injectable cosmetic wrinkle filler is for correcting facial tissue around the mouth.
FDA-approved cosmetic wrinkle fillers should not be used for
plumping the lips (lip augmentation)
increasing breast size (breast augmentation)
implanting into bone, tendon, ligament, or muscle
implanting into blood vessels
Filler Materials
Wrinkle fillers are made of various types of materials, and some include a combination of products. Some products also contain lidocaine, which numbs the skin at the injection site.
The materials used in injectable cosmetic wrinkle fillers include
Temporary (absorbable) fillers
Collagen injections are made of highly purified cow or human collagen. Collagen is a natural protein that is a major component of skin and other tissues in the body.
Hyaluronic acid gel is a protective lubricating gel, produced naturally by the body, that binds with water to plump the skin.
Calcium hydroxylapatite is a mineral that is a major component of bone. Calcium hydroxylapatite is a well-matched (biocompatible) material that dissolves in the body (biodegradable) and is implanted in the form of a gel.
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biodegradable, biocompatible, synthetic material from the alpha-hydroxy-acid family that has been widely used for many years in dissolvable stitches and bone screws.
Permanent (non-absorbable) filler
Polymethylmethacrylate beads (PMMA microspheres) are tiny round, smooth plastic particles that have been tested to be biocompatible. They are not absorbed by the body.
Risks
Getting injected with cosmetic wrinkle fillers is an elective procedure. As with any medical procedure, it poses risks.
Possible side effects include
infection
Bruising
redness
swelling
pain
tenderness
itching and rash
raised bumps of skin (nodules or granulomas) that may need to be surgically removed
death of skin, which may cause disfiguration, if the cosmetic wrinkle filler is injected and blocks a blood vessel
sore (abscess) at the injection site
wrinkle filler that breaks through the skin
open or draining wounds
blurred vision and flu-like symptoms
increased allergic reaction that may lead to a severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock) that requires emergency medical help. (Your doctor may request a pre-treatment allergy test to determine if you are allergic to the filler.)
Most side effects occur shortly after injection and go away within seven days. In some cases, side effects may emerge weeks, months, or years later. A non-absorbable filler may cause long-term side effects.
You should not use cosmetic wrinkle fillers if any of the following applies to you:
severe allergies marked by a history of anaphylactic shock
allergy to cow collagen or eggs
allergy to lidocaine
inflamed or infected skin
prone to form excessive scarring (keloid) or thick scarring (hypertrophic scars)
bleeding disorder
active inflammatory condition (cysts, pimples, rashes or hives) or infection; you should postpone treatment until the condition is controlled.
Tips for Consumers
Before deciding to get injected with a cosmetic wrinkle filler:
Be aware that the safety of these products is unknown for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women or in patients under 18 years of age.
Be aware that the safety is unknown when these products are used with Botox or other wrinkle therapies.
Be aware that the safety of these fillers has only been studied when used in the face.
Know the type of product that will be injected and all of its possible side effects.
Discuss fillers with a doctor who can refer you to a specialist in the fields of dermatology and aesthetic plastic surgery.
Select a doctor who is trained to do the procedure. (You may want to contact the American Academy of Dermatology at www.aad.org or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at www.surgery.org.)
Have realistic expectations about the benefits you want to achieve and discuss them with your doctor.
For more information about the Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute.com, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
This article appears on FDA's Consumer Health Information Web page (www.fda.gov/consumer), which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products. Sign up for free e-mail subscriptions at www.fda.gov/consumer/consumerenews.html.
What About Botox?
Botox Cosmetic is an injectable drug, but it is not a wrinkle filler. Instead of filling the wrinkle, it keeps muscles from tightening so the wrinkles don’t show as much. FDA has approved Botox Cosmetic only to treat wrinkles between the eyebrows.
Why Does Hair Turn Gray?
No longer a gray area: Our hair bleaches itself as we grow older
New research report in the FASEB Journal gets to the roots of gray hair
Wash away your gray? Maybe. A team of European scientists have finally solved a mystery that has perplexed humans throughout the ages: why we turn gray. Despite the notion that gray hair is a sign of wisdom, these researchers show in a research report published online in The FASEB Journal (http://www.fasebj.org) that wisdom has nothing to do with it. Going gray is caused by a massive build up of hydrogen peroxide due to wear and tear of our hair follicles. The peroxide winds up blocking the normal synthesis of melanin, our hair's natural pigment.
"Not only blondes change their hair color with hydrogen peroxide," said Gerald Weissmann, MD, Editor-in-Chief of The FASEB Journal. "All of our hair cells make a tiny bit of hydrogen peroxide, but as we get older, this little bit becomes a lot. We bleach our hair pigment from within, and our hair turns gray and then white. This research, however, is an important first step to get at the root of the problem, so to speak."
The researchers made this discovery by examining cell cultures of human hair follicles. They found that the build up of hydrogen peroxide was caused by a reduction of an enzyme that breaks up hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen (catalase). They also discovered that hair follicles could not repair the damage caused by the hydrogen peroxide because of low levels of enzymes that normally serve this function (MSR A and B). Further complicating matters, the high levels of hydrogen peroxide and low levels of MSR A and B, disrupt the formation of an enzyme (tyrosinase) that leads to the production of melanin in hair follicles. Melanin is the pigment responsible for hair color, skin color, and eye color. The researchers speculate that a similar breakdown in the skin could be the root cause of vitiligo.
"As any blue-haired lady will attest, sometimes hair dyes don't quite work as anticipated," Weissmann added. "This study is a prime example of how basic research in biology can benefit us in ways never imagined."
Research study details: J. M. Wood, H. Decker, H. Hartmann, B. Chavan, H. Rokos, J. D. Spencer, S. Hasse, M. J. Thornton, M. Shalbaf, R. Paus, and K. U. Schallreuter. Senile hair graying: H2O2-mediated oxidative stress affects human hair color by blunting methionine sulfoxide repair. FASEB J. doi:10.1096/fj.08-125435. http://www.fasebj.org/cgi/content/abstract/fj.08-125435v1
The FASEB Journal (http://www.fasebj.org) is published by the Federation of the American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) and is the most cited journal worldwide according to the Institute for Scientific Information. FASEB comprises 22 nonprofit societies with more than 80,000 members, making it the largest coalition of biomedical research associations in the United States. FASEB advances biological science through collaborative advocacy for research policies that promote scientific progress and education and lead to improvements in human health.
New research report in the FASEB Journal gets to the roots of gray hair
Wash away your gray? Maybe. A team of European scientists have finally solved a mystery that has perplexed humans throughout the ages: why we turn gray. Despite the notion that gray hair is a sign of wisdom, these researchers show in a research report published online in The FASEB Journal (http://www.fasebj.org) that wisdom has nothing to do with it. Going gray is caused by a massive build up of hydrogen peroxide due to wear and tear of our hair follicles. The peroxide winds up blocking the normal synthesis of melanin, our hair's natural pigment.
"Not only blondes change their hair color with hydrogen peroxide," said Gerald Weissmann, MD, Editor-in-Chief of The FASEB Journal. "All of our hair cells make a tiny bit of hydrogen peroxide, but as we get older, this little bit becomes a lot. We bleach our hair pigment from within, and our hair turns gray and then white. This research, however, is an important first step to get at the root of the problem, so to speak."
The researchers made this discovery by examining cell cultures of human hair follicles. They found that the build up of hydrogen peroxide was caused by a reduction of an enzyme that breaks up hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen (catalase). They also discovered that hair follicles could not repair the damage caused by the hydrogen peroxide because of low levels of enzymes that normally serve this function (MSR A and B). Further complicating matters, the high levels of hydrogen peroxide and low levels of MSR A and B, disrupt the formation of an enzyme (tyrosinase) that leads to the production of melanin in hair follicles. Melanin is the pigment responsible for hair color, skin color, and eye color. The researchers speculate that a similar breakdown in the skin could be the root cause of vitiligo.
"As any blue-haired lady will attest, sometimes hair dyes don't quite work as anticipated," Weissmann added. "This study is a prime example of how basic research in biology can benefit us in ways never imagined."
Research study details: J. M. Wood, H. Decker, H. Hartmann, B. Chavan, H. Rokos, J. D. Spencer, S. Hasse, M. J. Thornton, M. Shalbaf, R. Paus, and K. U. Schallreuter. Senile hair graying: H2O2-mediated oxidative stress affects human hair color by blunting methionine sulfoxide repair. FASEB J. doi:10.1096/fj.08-125435. http://www.fasebj.org/cgi/content/abstract/fj.08-125435v1
The FASEB Journal (http://www.fasebj.org) is published by the Federation of the American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) and is the most cited journal worldwide according to the Institute for Scientific Information. FASEB comprises 22 nonprofit societies with more than 80,000 members, making it the largest coalition of biomedical research associations in the United States. FASEB advances biological science through collaborative advocacy for research policies that promote scientific progress and education and lead to improvements in human health.
2009 CEW Beauty Awards Winners (and how to find them!)
NEW YORK, May 7 /PRNewswire/ -- The beauty industry came out to celebrate its finest, as Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) honored the most innovative beauty products of the year. The CEW Beauty Awards are determined by those in the know -- over 4,000 professionals working in the field.
To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/cew/37702
For manufacturers, the Awards represent the industry's highest honor. For consumers, they serve as a trusted guide to top product performers.
"Women don't want to make buying mistakes. They're looking for performance and value. With the CEW Beauty Awards, consumers have the advice of more than 4,000 beauty experts to lead them to the best products the industry has to offer," says Carlotta Jacobson, CEW President.
This year's prestigious list of CEW Beauty Award Winners was announced this afternoon at a gala event at the Waldorf=Astoria in New York City.
Hosted by Mario Cantone, star of Sex and the City
Presented by: Bravo's The Real Housewives of New York City: Jill Zarin, Alex McCord, Ramona Singer and Countess LuAnn de Lesseps
Gretta Monahan, Style Expert for The Rachael Ray Show and Bravo Network
Simon Doonan, Creative Director of Barneys
Ingrid Grimes-Myles, Michelle Obama's Makeup Artist
Shontelle, Spokesmodel and Popstar
Nearly 550 entries
140 Finalists
28 categories, ranging from Makeup to Hair Care, Sun to Scent
Both mass products (available at the drugstore) and prestige products (available at department and specialty stores) were honored
In addition to recognizing product innovation, the CEW Beauty Awards announced the winner of the Indie Beauty Award for the brightest new start-up in the world of beauty. This year's winner is NIA 24(R).
Want to get your hands on this year's best? CEW has launched the Awards' biggest retail program to date, collaborating with 6 national partners in 2009. Consumers are given instant shopping access on www.cew.org with "buy now" links to CVS/pharmacy, Sephora, ULTA, Beauty.com, drugstore.com and Bloomingdale's. This formidable list of retail royalty will also showcase the 2009 Beauty Award Winners with custom promotions online and in stores.
To view the Winners, please visit www.cew.org.
The 2009 CEW Beauty Awards winners are:
BATH AND BODY
Body Treatment - Mass
Avon Products, Inc. Anew Clinical Professional Stretch Mark Smoother
Body Treatment - Prestige
Ojon Tawaka(TM) "The Ball"
Scented Bath & Body - Mass
Vickery & Clarke Natural Apothecary Eucalyptus & Peppermint Cold & Sinus
Soak
Scented Bath & Body - Prestige
Fresh Fig Apricot Bath and Shower Gel
FACIAL SKINCARE
Acne Treatment
Clean & Clear(R) Advantage(R) Blackhead Eraser(TM) Exfoliating Cleanser
Anti-Aging - Mass
Olay Regenerist 14 Day Skin Intervention
Anti-Aging - Prestige
Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector
Cleanser & Scrub - Mass
Neutrogena Wave(TM) Power Cleanser and Deep Clean Foaming Pads
Cleanser & Scrub - Prestige
Fresh Appleseed Brightening Exfoliant
Eye Treatment - Mass
Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller
Eye Treatment - Prestige
Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Eye Treatment
Moisturizer - Mass
Olay Definity Color Recapture
Moisturizer - Prestige
ESTEE LAUDER Time Zone Line and Wrinkle Reducing Moisturizer SPF 15
HAIR
Hair Care, Style & Coloring - Mass
Avon Products, Inc. Advance Techniques Grey Root Touch-Up
Hair Care, Style & Coloring - Prestige
Living Proof, Inc. Straight Making No Frizz Styling Cream for Medium
to Thick Hair
MAKEUP
Eye Product - Mass
L'Oreal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara
Eye Product - Prestige
Lancome Oscillation
Face Product - Mass
CoverGirl Simply Ageless Foundation
Face Product - Prestige
Giorgio Armani Face Fabric Foundation
Lip Product - Mass
Avon Products, Inc. Pro-To-Go Lipstick
Lip Product - Prestige
YSL Rouge Volupte Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick SPF 15
MEN'S GROOMING
Men's Grooming
ZIRH Holdings LLC Drenched
SCENT
Men's Scent
PUIG USA Prada Infusion d'Homme Eau de Toilette Spray
Fragrance Supplier: GIVAUDAN
Women's Scent - Mass
Avon Products, Inc. Bond Girl 007
Fragrance Supplier: FIRMENICH
Women's Scent - Prestige
Harajuku Lovers Fragrances "G"
Fragrance Supplier: FRAGRANCE RESOURCES
SUN
Sun Product - Mass
AVEENO(R) Continuous Protection Sunblock Spray SPF 70(TM)
Sun Product - Prestige
Clarins Delicious Self Tanning Cream
INDIE BEAUTY AWARD
NIA 24(R)
The 2009 CEW Beauty Awards are sponsored by Allure, Givaudan, CVS/pharmacy, Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal, ACUVUE(R) Brand Contact Lenses, Medicis, VEET, WWD Beauty Biz, Arcade Marketing, The Royal Promotion Group, Suite K, KraftWorks, HBA Global Expo, Beilis Development, MaCher, Rpr Marketing Communications, Alcan Packaging Beauty, Beauty.com, Raw Media, Digital Plus, VIDICOM. Categories defined by NPD Group. Ballots tabulated by Ernst & Young.
Cosmetic Executive Women, Inc. (CEW) is a nonprofit professional organization with over 4,000 executives in the beauty, cosmetics, fragrance, and related industries. CEW is based in NYC, and it has associated organizations in France and the United Kingdom. For more information about the 2009 CEW Beauty Awards program, its product entries and sponsors, log on to www.cew.org.
SOURCE Cosmetic Executive Women
To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/cew/37702
For manufacturers, the Awards represent the industry's highest honor. For consumers, they serve as a trusted guide to top product performers.
"Women don't want to make buying mistakes. They're looking for performance and value. With the CEW Beauty Awards, consumers have the advice of more than 4,000 beauty experts to lead them to the best products the industry has to offer," says Carlotta Jacobson, CEW President.
This year's prestigious list of CEW Beauty Award Winners was announced this afternoon at a gala event at the Waldorf=Astoria in New York City.
Hosted by Mario Cantone, star of Sex and the City
Presented by: Bravo's The Real Housewives of New York City: Jill Zarin, Alex McCord, Ramona Singer and Countess LuAnn de Lesseps
Gretta Monahan, Style Expert for The Rachael Ray Show and Bravo Network
Simon Doonan, Creative Director of Barneys
Ingrid Grimes-Myles, Michelle Obama's Makeup Artist
Shontelle, Spokesmodel and Popstar
Nearly 550 entries
140 Finalists
28 categories, ranging from Makeup to Hair Care, Sun to Scent
Both mass products (available at the drugstore) and prestige products (available at department and specialty stores) were honored
In addition to recognizing product innovation, the CEW Beauty Awards announced the winner of the Indie Beauty Award for the brightest new start-up in the world of beauty. This year's winner is NIA 24(R).
Want to get your hands on this year's best? CEW has launched the Awards' biggest retail program to date, collaborating with 6 national partners in 2009. Consumers are given instant shopping access on www.cew.org with "buy now" links to CVS/pharmacy, Sephora, ULTA, Beauty.com, drugstore.com and Bloomingdale's. This formidable list of retail royalty will also showcase the 2009 Beauty Award Winners with custom promotions online and in stores.
To view the Winners, please visit www.cew.org.
The 2009 CEW Beauty Awards winners are:
BATH AND BODY
Body Treatment - Mass
Avon Products, Inc. Anew Clinical Professional Stretch Mark Smoother
Body Treatment - Prestige
Ojon Tawaka(TM) "The Ball"
Scented Bath & Body - Mass
Vickery & Clarke Natural Apothecary Eucalyptus & Peppermint Cold & Sinus
Soak
Scented Bath & Body - Prestige
Fresh Fig Apricot Bath and Shower Gel
FACIAL SKINCARE
Acne Treatment
Clean & Clear(R) Advantage(R) Blackhead Eraser(TM) Exfoliating Cleanser
Anti-Aging - Mass
Olay Regenerist 14 Day Skin Intervention
Anti-Aging - Prestige
Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector
Cleanser & Scrub - Mass
Neutrogena Wave(TM) Power Cleanser and Deep Clean Foaming Pads
Cleanser & Scrub - Prestige
Fresh Appleseed Brightening Exfoliant
Eye Treatment - Mass
Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller
Eye Treatment - Prestige
Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Eye Treatment
Moisturizer - Mass
Olay Definity Color Recapture
Moisturizer - Prestige
ESTEE LAUDER Time Zone Line and Wrinkle Reducing Moisturizer SPF 15
HAIR
Hair Care, Style & Coloring - Mass
Avon Products, Inc. Advance Techniques Grey Root Touch-Up
Hair Care, Style & Coloring - Prestige
Living Proof, Inc. Straight Making No Frizz Styling Cream for Medium
to Thick Hair
MAKEUP
Eye Product - Mass
L'Oreal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara
Eye Product - Prestige
Lancome Oscillation
Face Product - Mass
CoverGirl Simply Ageless Foundation
Face Product - Prestige
Giorgio Armani Face Fabric Foundation
Lip Product - Mass
Avon Products, Inc. Pro-To-Go Lipstick
Lip Product - Prestige
YSL Rouge Volupte Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick SPF 15
MEN'S GROOMING
Men's Grooming
ZIRH Holdings LLC Drenched
SCENT
Men's Scent
PUIG USA Prada Infusion d'Homme Eau de Toilette Spray
Fragrance Supplier: GIVAUDAN
Women's Scent - Mass
Avon Products, Inc. Bond Girl 007
Fragrance Supplier: FIRMENICH
Women's Scent - Prestige
Harajuku Lovers Fragrances "G"
Fragrance Supplier: FRAGRANCE RESOURCES
SUN
Sun Product - Mass
AVEENO(R) Continuous Protection Sunblock Spray SPF 70(TM)
Sun Product - Prestige
Clarins Delicious Self Tanning Cream
INDIE BEAUTY AWARD
NIA 24(R)
The 2009 CEW Beauty Awards are sponsored by Allure, Givaudan, CVS/pharmacy, Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal, ACUVUE(R) Brand Contact Lenses, Medicis, VEET, WWD Beauty Biz, Arcade Marketing, The Royal Promotion Group, Suite K, KraftWorks, HBA Global Expo, Beilis Development, MaCher, Rpr Marketing Communications, Alcan Packaging Beauty, Beauty.com, Raw Media, Digital Plus, VIDICOM. Categories defined by NPD Group. Ballots tabulated by Ernst & Young.
Cosmetic Executive Women, Inc. (CEW) is a nonprofit professional organization with over 4,000 executives in the beauty, cosmetics, fragrance, and related industries. CEW is based in NYC, and it has associated organizations in France and the United Kingdom. For more information about the 2009 CEW Beauty Awards program, its product entries and sponsors, log on to www.cew.org.
SOURCE Cosmetic Executive Women
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