Thursday, October 15, 2009

New Breakthrough in Cellulite Reduction & Body Contouring

You may have seen or heard about VelaShape in the media recently. It's been featured on programs including The CBS Early Morning Show, Dr. Phil, and the Rachel Ray Show. It's easy to understand why. Velashape is proven to actually contour, shape and slim the body by shrinking cellulite and reducing skin circumference. It can create noticeable results in as few as 4 treatments. And Velashape is approved by the FDA, providing a complete non-surgical alternative to liposuction without any downtime! So for all those interested in learning more, here's a concise guide to all the basics you need to know about this breakthrough technology.

For more information about Velashape at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=173

Understanding Cellulite

We know cellulite can be the bane of a beautiful body, creating pockets of fat and dimpled skin resistant to reduction by diet or exercise. But what is cellulite? Cellulite is fat cells located in chambers separated by vertical and horizontal tissue partitions, or septae. When the chambers are distended by enlarged fat cells or by retained intercellular fluids, they protrude beyond the length of the vertical partitions, pushing up the skin surface and resulting in cellulite's telltale dimpled skin.

How Velashape Works

Velashape uses Syneron elos technology, combining electro optical synergy with mechanical manipulation of the skin using gentle vacuum action. This is the only device that combines these forces, which is the secret of its effectiveness.

The elos technology heats dermal (skin) and sub-dermal (below the skin) tissues that contain cellulite. The heat causes the metabolic breakdown of fat in fat cells. The vacuum action contributes to this breakdown as it increases blood circulation. The mechanical actions also helps drain excess intercellular fluids into the lymphatic system. This removes the fat, reducing the size of the fat cells. Consequently, the bumpiness of the skin caused by distended fat cells is reduced. So is the circumference of the treated areas of the body.

Seeing Results

In our instant gratification culture, people want immediate results. One of the most common questions I get about this device is "How soon before I see a difference?" The answer: Gradual improvement can be seen following the first treatment. The skin feels smoother, firmer and tighter. Results will be best after 6-8 weeks following the final treatment session. In clinical studies conducted by Syneron, patients reported average of one-half to three inches circumferential reduction.

What Does a VelaShape Treatment Feel Like?

No pain, no gain isn't the case with VelaShape; it's a painless procedure. Most patients find it comfortable, a sensation like a warm tissue massage. Afterwards a warm sensation and a redness in the skin is common, typically lasting for a few hours.

Maintaining the New You

To maintain optimal results long after your initial treatment regimen is completed, periodic maintenance treatments are recommended. As with all surgical and non-surgical techniques, results will last longer if a balanced diet and an exercise regimen is followed.

We use VelaShape at our medical spa in Summit, New Jersey, where we provide non-invasive aesthetic procedures exclusively. We - our staff and clients - have been very impressed with the results, and it has become a very popular procedure.

Dr. Hardik Soni is a co-founding member of http://www.myethosspa.com in Summit, New Jersey a medical spa specializing in non-invasive aesthetic procedures. A board certified physician and member of the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery, Dr. Soni studied at Johns Hopkins University and is currently on medical staff at St Clair's Medical Center. Dr. Soni has trained in many aspects of aesthetic medicine, including laser and IPL therapy for skin rejuvenation, cellulite reduction, and hair reduction. A member of the International Spa Association, he is also proficient in the administration of BOTOX and dermal fillers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hardik_Soni

For more information about Velashape at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=173
Facial dermal fillers are fast becoming the most popular way to get rid of unwanted lines and wrinkles. This non-surgical procedure enhances your overall facial appearance leaving you looking years younger.

For more information about Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176

Think about it. Have you ever thought about how you could maintain the youthful look of your younger years? Have you ever wished that you could get rid of those "smile lines"? Facial dermal fillers, offers several options for adding that youthful look to your face.

The facial dermal filler process is also known as a non-surgical facial contouring and when left to the skillful hands of a qualified physician, you can have a younger looking face without the surgery. You will look so natural after the procedure, people will wonder why you look so much younger.

Doctors rely on two areas of expertise to give you the best looking face:

1. Their own professional skills
2. State-of-the-art products that will help them smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on your face.

Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane are just a few of the products on the market that skilled professional will rely on to give you maximum benefits. These products can offer you a long lasting solution to your aging skin challenges.

The true benefits of the products are you look younger and the fillers will act by settling into the skin, reviving and generating collagen so that the area where it is applied will start to grow collagen, giving more volume to your face.

So if you are considering facial dermal fillers as the choice solution for your wrinkles and fine line, then look no further than - Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane. And remember that you should consult the advice of a an experienced doctor.

Advanced Laser of Long Island, where Dr. Wayne Wertheim provides the perfect blend of artistic vision and modern technology for the patients of Long Island and the greater New York City Metropolitan area. Dr. Wertheim brings over two decades of primary care medical experience to the forefront of the fight against time and the inevitable, but improvable effects of aging. Although time may continue to march on, Dr. Wertheim's patients have found that they can march to the beat of a different drummer.

Our goal is to give our patients a healthier, fresher look and feel, one that will give them a renewed sense of confidence and restore their sense of self-esteem. Learn more about http://www.islandlaserblog.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wayne_Wertheim

For more information about Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176

Grow Your Eyelashes With a Prescription Medication


The desire to have long and full eyelashes is a prevalent female beauty need. Many solutions to eyelash enhancement are available including mascara and eyelash extensions. Recent research has looked at making your own eyelashes grow using topical drugs. One such recent topical product used spironolactone (an old high blood pressure medication), which was very effective, but has been pulled from the market due to company proprietary conflicts.

For more information about Latisse at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=217

The eyelash hair growth product to enter the market is Latisse. This is actually a glaucoma drug that was discovered to coincidentally make such patient's eyelashes grow. Similar in some ways to Rogaine which was a high blood pressure medication that had the side effect of scalp hair growth. Latisse, chemically known as a 0.03% bimatoprost ophthalmic solution, is the first and only prescription treatment approved by the FDA for inadequate or insufficient eyelashes. This topical agent makes lash growth possible because of its active ingredient, bimatoprost. Although it is not known why it actually works, research suggests that it stimulates the growth of eyelashes by keeping them longer in their actibe growth phase, known as anagen. Remember, hairs go through growth and rest phases which differ for hair on various parts of the body. Eyelash hair, for example, grows a lot less than scalp hair because it has a much shorter and infrequent growth phase. This drug prolongs the eyelash hair growth phase. Knowing that this is how it works should also tell some important issues about it. (see below)

Latisse is a once-a-day treatment you apply topically to the base of your upper eyelashes. Eyelash growth won't happen overnight. It takes time and regular applications. Clinical studies show that you will begin seeing results around 4 weeks with full results after 16 weeks. Once you begin treatment, you must keep using it each night. Results appear gradually. Once you have full results in 4 months or so, you must continue using it to maintain. If you stop, your eyelashes will eventually return to where you started. This is exactly similar to the scalp treatment of Rogaine. If you remove the stimulus, you will remove the results. In some patients, itchy eyes and eye redness may occur. This may go away as you get used to the product. Be sure that you are applying it properly. (see below)

Incorporate Latisse into your nightly routine after you've washed your face and brushed your teeth. Only use it once a night, and don't overuse it, as this may increase the chance of experiencing eye redness or itchiness. If you miss a dose one night, don't apply more to try and catch up. If your eye makeup remover leaves an oily residue on your eyelids, wipe off any excess oils with soap and water to ensure a clean surface before you apply it. Always use the sterile, disposable FDA-approved applicator provided in the kit. Don't try to apply it with a cotton swab. The applicator is specially designed to hold a drop and release a drop and to ensure as well as ensure safety. Don't let the tip of the bottle or applicator contact your fingers or any other dirty surface to avoid contamination and risk eye irritation or infection.

Latisse brings another valuable resource to eyelash enhancement and beauty. It will not, however, create the same effect as eyelash extensions. It will thicken your eyelashes and may add up to 4mm of length. (which is a lot for an eyelash) But it will be your own eyelashes and avoids the maintenance issues associated with other eyelash products.

Dr Barry Eppley is a board-certified plastic surgeon in private practice in Indianapolis, Indiana at Clarian Health Systems. (http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com) He writes a daily blog on plastic surgery, spa therapies, and medical skin care at http://www.exploreplasticsurgery.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Barry_Eppley

For more information about Latisse at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=217

Maybe She's Born With It - Or Maybe It's Latisse


Ever found yourself wishing you had longer, fuller eyelashes? Lashes that were dark and luxurious, and powerful enough to make people gaze into your eyes, instead of just look at them? If you're answer is yes, then you're not alone. In fact, you've got more than 6,000 years' worth of company. The obsession with eyelashes dates all the way back to the ancient Egyptians of 4000 BC. These fashion-forward predecessors created a powdery mix of soot and metal called "kohl" that they used on their eyes, lashes and eyebrows to give them more definition. And though we're no longer smearing soot and metal shards on our eyes, cosmetic eyelash enhancement hasn't progressed much in 6,000 years. Mascara? It's a temporary fix at best, and tends to clump and run even when it promises not to. False lashes? Also a temporary solution. But what if there were a way to go beyond temporary painting and gluing, and truly transform your lashes - permanently? That way has just arrived. And if you're reading this, you're one of the first people in the world to know about it.

For more information about Latisse at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=217

It's called Latisse, and it's a cutting-edge treatment that's been proven to actually grow your eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and darker than they've ever been. No glue, no fake extensions, no illusions. Just your own, real eyelashes - only better.

I know what you're thinking. This sounds like every infomercial you've seen when you can't sleep and you've got the TV on at 2:00 in the morning. About a pill that makes you lose 50 lbs. in two weeks. Or a serum that turns rolls of fat into rippling muscles - no exercise required! And you're right to be wary, there are a lot of false claims out there. But did you ever notice the fine print at the tail end of those commercials? Way down at the bottom of the screen, in ultra-light, teeny-tiny print - messages that read, "Results not clinically proven," or "These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA."

That's what makes Latisse different. Latisse is the first FDA-approved treatment for growing longer, fuller, darker lashes. Most people who have used Latisse noticed a visible difference in their lashes in the first four to six weeks, and continued to watch their lashes grow to their full potential in sixteen weeks. Latisse is a story best told by the people who've tried it, and rave about its effects. But there's another version of the Latisse success story, too - and it's told by numbers. 78% of Latisse patients experienced an improvement in overall eyelash prominence after 16 weeks. Their lashes were 25% longer, 106% fuller and 18% darker.

So how does Latisse actually work? It's believed to affect the growth phase of the eyelash hair cycle - actually increasing the length of the growth phase - which gives an increased number of eyelash hairs the opportunity to grow. Just as incredible as the results is how easy Latisse is to use. Put a tiny amount of Latisse solution on a sterile applicator and apply it to the base of your upper eyelashes once a night - just like applying eyeliner. And if you happen to get a little bit in your eye, don't worry. Latisse hasn't been determined to cause harm to your eyes, so there's no need to rinse it out. It is important to make sure that you keep the applicator sterile, the same as you do for your mascara, and don't touch it with your fingers or lay it on non-sterile surfaces. And speaking of mascara, yes you can wear it if you're using Latisse. It's a great way to get the most out of your Latisse-enhanced lashes.

A couple things to keep in mind: If for some reason you forget to apply Latisse one day, don't try to play catch up by applying it twice the next day. Instead just apply it normally - using Latisse more than once a day simply won't increase the growth of your eyelashes any more than daily use. Make sure you ask your doctor for all the safety information when you go in to talk about Latisse. Only 4% of participants in the clinical trials reported itchy or red eyes, and the safety and effectiveness of Latisse is backed by the FDA.

You are now in the know about one of the newest, most cutting-edge cosmetic treatments there is. Ask your doctor about Latisse, and get ready for lashes that are truly stunning - because they're your own.

Catherine Sheehan writes articles about health and beauty for http://www.reflectionscenter.com .

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Catherine_Sheehan

For more information about Latisse at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=217

$50 Express Success Rebate on Botox Cosmetic Treatments



Derma Health Institute will offer the $50 Express Success Rebate through December 31st, 2009 as long as supplies last. Schedule an appointment online or call one of our locations today!

Derma Health Institute is proud to support "Dress for Success"

Bring in your new or gently used business clothing to any Derma Health location and enter for a chance to win twenty units of Botox or a syringe of Juvederm!

Click here for more detailed information about Botox at Derma Health Institute: http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com

Anti Aging and Skin Care: Why Does the Skin Wrinkle?

The aging process begins when we enter the world and the effects of aging are evident in our bodies through our lives. From the 20’s, the signs of aging start to become noticeable. Genetically programmed chronologic aging causes changes in collagen and elastin, the connective tissues that firmness and elasticity of supply to the skin. The genetic program of individuals is different, so the loss of firmness and skin elasticity occurs at different rates and different times in one individual, compared to another. As the skin becomes less elastic, fat also becomes drier and underlying begins to disappear. With the loss of underlying support by fat padding and connective tissue, skin begins to sag, it appears less supple and wrinkles form.

Although wrinkles, lines and age spots are formed by the natural effect of aging, a way to avoid appearing early in life is to avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreens with a SPF 15 or higher. And while most of us have some form of sun-damaged skin, there are ways to regain healthy, smooth skin. After many years of research, scientists, dermatologists and plastic surgeons have discovered that a variety of natural ingredients and vitamin extracts significantly help slow and even reverse the signs of skin aging. These ingredients are now found in many developed countries, the doctor and the doctor recommends care products anti-aging skin, as detailed below.

Vitamin A (Retinol) – Topical Vitamin A has been suggested to help build collagen fibers in the skin, in addition to its more superficial exfoliating properties. This is the basis for use in minimizing the appearance of fine wrinkles. Vitamin A or Retinol is the main ingredient in TYK young again, MD Forte, DDF and products SkinScience.

Vitamin C – Vitamin C or ascorbic acid acts as an antioxidant and is considered vital in wound healing because it aids in stabilizing collagen. When applied topically, vitamin C can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and may decrease the severity of sunburn. This ingredient is found in healing SKINCEUTICALS, Cellex C and Obagi Cffectives products for skin care.

Vitamin E – Vitamin E is another antioxidant that shows to have anti-inflammatory skin. When applied topically, vitamin E has been shown to improve hydration, softness and smoothness and also provides modest photo protection. Vitamin E is found in Cellex C, Exuviance and MD Forte products.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) – AHAs are designed to smooth fine lines and surface wrinkles, improve skin texture and tone, to unblock and cleanse pores, improve oily skin or acne, and improve the condition skin in general. AHAs are the main ingredients found in MD Forte, TYK Young again, Super Skin and SkinScience products.

Glycolic Acid – Glycolic acid is the most active and beneficial alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) in skin care. Once inside the cells, the acid causes new formations of collagen to plump cells and ground substances in the skin to reduce wrinkles on the skin surface. Glycolic acid is proven highly effective in treating acne, as well as in cosmetic uses. Glycolic acid is found in products by Gly Derm, MD Forte, Z. Bigatti and Super Skin.

N-6 furfuryladenine (kinetin) – The nature-identical plant growth factor, furfuryladenine, slows the aging of plant cells and in human skin fibroblasts in vitro. This natural, anti-aging ingredient has been shown to reduce wrinkles and fine lines and is exclusively found in Kinerase creams and lotions. This is a proven alternative for people with sensitive skin or people who are sensitive to products containing retinol and vitamin C.
Copper Peptides are the latest scientific advances in skin rejuvenation. Copper has been found to naturally firm the skin, improve elasticity and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Copper is the main ingredient in products by Neova and osmotic.

KTTKS Pal – Pal-KTTKS is an effective ingredient for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It is to promote a smoother, younger complexion quickly, without the expensive and painful chemical peels, surgery or injections. This patented peptide solution is found in StriVectin-SD.

Against green tea extract – green tea-inflammatory and anti-growth qualities are found in many products for skin care designed to reduce the appearance of swelling, wrinkles, fine lines and large pores. Green tea is at the line of skin care Dr. Brandt, Z. Bigatti and Gly Derm products.

TNS – The biotechnology of the natural healing process of the skin has come with the first tissue repairing complex containing growth factors found in normal, healthy skin. Unlike anything else currently on the market, TNS is the next level of skin rejuvenation that delivers dramatic results for softer, smoother, younger skin. TNS is found in SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex.

Many will make the anti-aging product is best and we always respond by saying that there is no better product. Since each person’s skin is different, the results of using anti-aging products will be different. We recommend that you consult a professional skin care before using any new product for skin care in determining your skin type, skin condition and possible sensitivity to active ingredients. Your skin care professional may recommend specific products, or you can try a few on your own based on the query. If you are not satisfied with the first product to try, try another. It is important to choose a product and a system of skin care that makes you feel 100% comfortable with the appearance of your skin.

Customers also inquire about when to expect to see the results of using anti-aging products. Again, respond by saying that the results will be different for each individual, generally due to the condition of the beings of the skin before use. However, in general, we can not say to expect a miracle, since there is no anti-aging product on the market that delivers results overnight. If you are trying to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness or age spots, the process is gradual and takes anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks depending on the severity of your problem areas. After allowing the products time to take effect, and follow the product instructions, you can be sure you notice a significant improvement in the appearance of your skin.

For faster results, you will have to undergo professional cosmetics procedures. Although procedures such as laser treatments, injections and dermabrasion produce the fastest, most noticeable improvements, they are all a bit uncomfortable or painful and very costly. In addition, plans for pre and post treatment required to achieve maximum results, which include the use of products for skin care, which have also proven to be safe, effective, painless and less expensive alternatives to professional procedures cosmetics.

Note that using any new product for skin care is very possible that your skin reacts to the ingredients. You may experience irritation, redness, dryness or a mild breakdown, lasting only during the first 3-5 days of use. If you experience any of these events during a long period of time, please discontinue use and consult a professional skin care. It also recommends that before using any new product for skin care, consult a professional skin care.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/anti-aging-and-skin-care-why-does-the-skin-wrinkle-1306249.html

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For more info, you can visit this site on www.kineraseblog.com

Derma Health Offering Pumpkin and Cranberry Facial Specials

(Phoenix, AZ) – Derma Health Institute is welcoming the fall season with special pumpkin facial and cranberry facial services. These indulgent treatments will be priced at only $75 and will be available for a limited time at all four Valley locations. Both facials have special ingredient benefits that can help women look their best for the holiday season.

The pumpkin and cranberry facials will be only $75 and include microdermabrasion. The regular price for this package at Derma Health would be $115. The signature microdermabrasion works to improve the look of the face, neck and hands of the customer.

For October and November, the promotional facial will be the Pumpkin Orange Facial, which has Vitamin A and C and helps with anti-aging and to reveal fresh new skin. For November and December, the Cranberry Turnover Facial/Peel will be featured and the cranberry components will act to balance acne breakouts and help with greasy skin.

“These seasonal facials are a great way for our customers to have a little fun and indulge in the wonderful smells and benefits for the skin,” Dr. Ann Watwood with Derma Health Institute, said. “These next few months can be hectic, so be good to your skin and save on these special services,” she said.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for your pumpkin or cranberry facial at Derma Health Institute, call (480) 539-0777 Mesa/Gilbert, (480) 730-9000 Chandler/Tempe, (480) 460-1505 Ahwatukee/Phoenix or (480) 991-7900 Paradise Valley/Scottsdale.

http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com

Can Brazilian Laser Hair Removal ImproveYour Sex Life?

Brazilian hair removal is the practice of removing all of your hair "down there". But can getting all your pubic hair removed improve your sex life? A studyby the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia (CPSA) say yes.

Brazilian hair removal is the practice of removing all of your hair "down there". But can getting all your pubic hair removed improve your sex life? A studyby the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia (CPSA) say yes.

The CPSA reveals that 63% of the women surveyed feel sexier with little or no genital hair, experience greater sexual pleasure and would recommend removing genital hair to other women as a way of improving their sex life.

Dr Philippa McCaffery, Cosmetic Physician and Study Coordinator says, “While most women reported aesthetic and hygiene reasons for permanent hair removal, the reporting of enhanced sexual pleasure is a very significant finding, which may have benefits for all women. Results have shown that 53% of women reported enhanced sexual pleasure after getting Brazilian hair removal.

“This study does not identify which women are sexually active, so it is possible that the percentage of sexually active women experiencing greater sexual pleasure as a result of removing their genital hair could be higher,” said Dr. McCaffery.

To date, most clinical hair removal studies have focused on the methods of removing excessive hair, but few social studies have looked into why women remove hair and the social consequences of this practice. Complete removal of genital hair is relatively new to modern Western cultures, developing mostly in the 20th century.

“Sexual dissatisfaction is a much greater problem for women than men. Medical research often focuses on a drug solution to improve women’s sexual experiences, however preliminary results of this study show that permanent removal of female pubic hair by medical laser is a simple and safe way for some women to enhance their sex lives,” said Dr. McCaffery.

The study also revealed the following:

63% of clients reported feeling “sexier” with minimal/no pubic hair.
75% of clients reported “aesthetic” as a major reason for removing their pubic hair, 71% reported “hygiene” as a major reason for removing pubic hair. 17% reported “cultural” as a major reason for removing their pubic hair.
60% of clients reported experiencing greater sexual pleasure with minimal/no pubic hair
61% of clients said they would recommend “Brazilian” hair removal to other women as a way of improving their sex life.
Whatever the reasons underlying this apparent anomaly, if one considers the anatomy, removing the pubic hair, and thereby the potential physical barrier between a female and her sexual partner, could significantly improve the female’s sexual pleasure. Males after all do not have hair on their penises and therefore, experience no barrier to their skin’s sensory receptors.

It is possible that removing pubic hair and the physical barrier to direct skin to skin stimulation of the clitoris during intercourse, could increase the incidence of women experiencing orgasm during intercourse.

For more information about laser hair removal at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

Nonsurgical Treatments Can Take Years Off Aging Eyes

New York, NY (August 17, 2009) – As one ages, the characteristics of the eyes change in generally predictable ways: the skin thins and becomes less elastic, brows may descend, the upper lid may recede or enlarge, and the bones around the eyes appear more prominent. While surgery has long been the accepted standard and offers significant benefits to many patients, injectable treatments are proving to be a viable option for taking years off the appearance of aging eyes. An article appearing in the current issue of the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, a publication of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), details the use of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers as a reliable and long-lasting method for improving the eye area.

For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176

“In some cases, the addition of volume may provide a better-looking result than traditional surgical procedures,” says Val Lambros, MD, author of the article and a plastic surgeon practicing in Newport Beach, California. “Although the upper lid can be improved with injections, the area we treat is the brow. In some cases, filling in the brow expands the lid skin sufficiently to smooth wrinkles.”

According to Dr. Lambros, adding volume in the brow area can make the eye appear longer and fuller with less upper lid showing, all characteristics of a youthful eye. However, as in all cosmetic procedures, there is no “one size fits all” approach. “These are true aesthetic choices that must be decided through the patient’s consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon,” advises Dr. Lambros.

Since the 1980s, the standard method for volumizing the brow line has been by fat injection. Excellent results can be achieved using this method. The risk with fat injections, however, is that over time some of the fat may not survive. In some cases, the injected fat may actually grow as the patient ages or gains weight, resulting in unevenness in the brow area.

Hyaluronic acid has been used to treat the brow and upper lid since its introduction in 2005, using a technique similar to that of fat injections. Dr. Lambros prefers HA to fat for brow volumizing because he says contouring is easier, and HA is less subject to variability than biologic fillers. In the brow area, HA has been shown to produce long-lasting results, extending beyond two years. In addition, the effects of HA can be reversed immediately, using hyaluronidase (an enzyme that degrades hyaluronic acid), should the patient be displeased with the volumization effect.

When it comes to the eyes, a little can go a long way. “Brow volume procedures should not be overdone; more is not always better,” adds Dr. Lambros. “Most candidates for brow improvement with HA elect to begin treatment with small amounts of product, and are very satisfied with the results.”

Dr. Lambros gives patients the opportunity to preview their final look, a benefit not available to patients undergoing surgery. He creates temporary volume by injecting diluted local anesthetic which is threaded into the brow and molded into shape. If desired, the patient can choose to undergo the procedure immediately following the preview, since the brow is already anesthetized.

The use of injectable fillers in the brow is a complicated process and requires great skill and experience. “Because of its dependency on technique, only qualified injectors and board-certified plastic surgeons should be performing this procedure,” states Renato Saltz, MD, president of the Aesthetic Society. “When performed properly and by appropriate medical professionals, the use of HA fillers is safe, effective, and produces long-lasting results.”

For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176


About ASJ

The Aesthetic Surgery Journal is the peer-reviewed publication of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and is the most widely read clinical journal in the field of cosmetic surgery, with subscribers in more than 60 countries.

Survey: Men's Stomachs and Women's Faces Pay the Price in Today's Economy

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Aug. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Work and economy related stress is taking its toll on Americans' faces and stomachs, according to a new independent survey conducted by American Laser Centers, the largest provider of non-invasive aesthetic services in the U.S. Almost half of the respondents who took part in the survey (47 percent) currently feel some stress, while only five percent report feeling no stress.

The physical toll of their stress is also becoming clear: 86 percent of respondents indicate that they have a physical reaction to stress, with women's faces and men's abdominal region being most affected. Not surprisingly, the two top factors contributing to people's stress are related to work (56 percent) and the economy (51 percent).

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 4 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. For a complete list of offerings, visit www.americanlaser.com.

For more information about Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com

The End of the Bio-Identical Hormone Debate

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Sept. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Life Extension(R), the company that long ago sounded the alarm on the dangers of synthetic hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women, has published still more proof that bioidentical hormones offer a far safer treatment option.

For more information about Bio-Match at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=250

A white paper entitled Bioidentical Hormones: Why Is There Still a Controversy, published in the October edition of Life Extension Magazine, provides compelling scientific evidence on the safety and effectiveness of bioidentical hormone therapy. This position paper strongly documents the advantages of topical bioidentical hormone creams in contrast to the known safety risks associated with orally-administered conjugated equine (horse-derived) estrogens and progestin.

Individualized topical bioidentical hormone creams are available only through select compounding pharmacies, as the FDA has caved into the powerful influence of the pharmaceutical lobby and limited the sale of estriol, which has grossly increased its price and decreased its availability.

The pharmaceutical industry has billions of dollars invested in pushing antiquated equine estrogens and non-bioidentical progestin formulations that have been repeatedly linked to toxic side effects. They have lobbied the FDA to restrict the sale of compounding estriol creams by labeling compounding pharmacies unsafe and unregulated.

The FDA approved the use of Premarin(R) (mare urine-derived estrogen) 67 years ago, but today the same drug is still being prescribed as the answer to estrogen depletion for a generation of women who are desperate for better alternatives. The science is in. The answers are clear. The time for this controversy is over.

For more information about Bio-Match at Derma Health Institute, go to:
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Medical Expert Available for Media Interview on Bio-Identical Hormones

Steven V. Joyal, M.D., Vice President of Scientific Affairs at Life Extension(R), is available for interviews on the bioidentical hormone debate ... and information on the benefits of natural, estriol-based topical creams compounded by independent pharmacies.

About Life Extension

Life Extension has been researching and reporting breakthroughs in alternative medicine, nutrition, and preventive health since 1980.

SOURCE Life Extension

Monday, August 31, 2009

Treatments to Repair Your Skin After a Long Hot Summer

Did you spend a lot of time out in the Arizona sun this summer? What are the top treatments for your skin after Labor Day?

  • PhotoFacial is number one choice to get rid of sun damage for face, neck, chest, shoulders, arms, legs and back.
  • Levulan is a nice add-on to PhotoFacial or as a stand-alone treatment for a nice peel and to kill pre-cancer cells. Levulan plus a PhotoFacial is an awesome skin rejuvenation treatment!
  • VI Peel. Best option for darker skin complexions. It is great as a skin brightener and all around skin rejuvenator.
  • Laser Vein Removal and Laser Genesis for the tiny spider veins that pop up and redness from over-exposure to the sun.
  • Microdermabrasions and Chemical Peel are great exfoliators to get rid of the dry dead skin cells and soften the skin.

http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com

FDA Accutane Dangers and Side Effects Guide

ACCUTANE (ACK-U-TANE)
(isotretinoin capsules)

Read the Medication Guide that comes with Accutane before you start taking it and each time you get a prescription. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or your treatment.

For more information about safer Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=177

What is the most important information I should know about Accutane?

• Accutane is used to treat a type of severe acne (nodular acne) that has not been helped by other treatments, including antibiotics.
• Because Accutane can cause birth defects, Accutane is only for patients who can understand and agree to carry out all of the instructions in the iPLEDGE program.
• Accutane may cause serious mental health problems.

1. Birth defects (deformed babies), loss of a baby before birth (miscarriage), death of the baby, and early (premature) births. Female patients who are pregnant or who plan to become pregnant must not take Accutane. Female patients must not get pregnant:
• for 1 month before starting Accutane
• while taking Accutane
• for 1 month after stopping Accutane.
• If you get pregnant while taking Accutane, stop taking it right away and call your doctor. Doctors and patients should report all cases of pregnancy to:
• FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088, and
• the iPLEDGE pregnancy registry at 1-800-495-0654

2. Serious mental health problems. Accutane may cause:
• depression
• psychosis (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
• suicide. Some patients taking Accutane have had thoughts about hurting themselves or putting an end to their own lives (suicidal thoughts). Some people tried to end their own lives. And some people have ended their own lives.

Stop Accutane and call your doctor right away if you or a family member notices that you have any of the following signs and symptoms of depression or psychosis:

• start to feel sad or have crying spells
• lose interest in activities you once enjoyed
• sleep too much or have trouble sleeping
• become more irritable, angry, or aggressive than usual (for example, temper outbursts, thoughts of violence)
• have a change in your appetite or body weight
• have trouble concentrating
• withdraw from your friends or family
• feel like you have no energy
• have feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• start having thoughts about hurting yourself or taking your own life (suicidal thoughts)
• start acting on dangerous impulses
• start seeing or hearing things that are not real

After stopping Accutane, you may also need follow-up mental health care if you had any of these symptoms.
What is Accutane?

Accutane is a medicine taken by mouth to treat the most severe form of acne (nodular acne) that cannot be cleared up by any other acne treatments, including antibiotics. Accutane can cause serious side effects (see “What is the most important information I should know about Accutane?”). Accutane can only be:

• prescribed by doctors that are registered in the iPLEDGE program
• dispensed by a pharmacy that is registered with the iPLEDGE program
• given to patients who are registered in the iPLEDGE program and agree to do everything required in the program

What is severe nodular acne?

Severe nodular acne is when many red, swollen, tender lumps form in the skin. These can be the size of pencil erasers or larger. If untreated, nodular acne can lead to permanent scars.

Who should not take Accutane?

• Do not take Accutane if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or become pregnant during Accutane treatment. Accutane causes severe birth defects. See “What is the most important information I should know about Accutane?”
• Do not take Accutane if you are allergic to anything in it. Accutane contains parabens as the preservative. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in Accutane.

What should I tell my doctor before taking Accutane?

Tell your doctor if you or a family member has any of the following health conditions:

• mental problems
• asthma
• liver disease
• diabetes
• heart disease
• bone loss (osteoporosis) or weak bones
• an eating problem called anorexia nervosa (where people eat too little),
• food or medicine allergies

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Accutane must not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Tell your doctor about all of the medicines you take including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Accutane and certain other medicines can interact with each other, sometimes causing serious side effects. Especially tell your doctor if you take:

• Vitamin A supplements. Vitamin A in high doses has many of the same side effects as Accutane. Taking both together may increase your chance of getting side effects.
• Tetracycline antibiotics. Tetracycline antibiotics taken with Accutane can increase the chances of getting increased pressure in the brain.
• Progestin-only birth control pills (mini-pills). They may not work while you take Accutane. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure what type you are using.
• Dilantin (phenytoin). This medicine taken with Accutane may weaken your bones.
• Corticosteroid medicines. These medicines taken with Accutane may weaken your bones.
• St. John’s Wort. This herbal supplement may make birth control pills work less effectively.

These medicines should not be used with Accutane unless your doctor tells you it is okay.

Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show to your doctor and pharmacist. Do not take any new medicine without talking with your doctor.

How should I take Accutane?

• You must take Accutane exactly as prescribed. You must also follow all the instructions of the iPLEDGE program. Before prescribing Accutane, your doctor will:
• explain the iPLEDGE program to you
• have you sign the Patient Information/Informed Consent (for all patients). Female patients who can get pregnant must also sign another consent form.
You will not be prescribed Accutane if you can not agree to or follow all the instructions of the iPLEDGE program.
• You will get no more than a 30-day supply of Accutane at a time. This is to make sure you are following the Accutane iPLEDGE program. You should talk with your doctor each month about side effects.
• The amount of Accutane you take has been specially chosen for you. It is based on your body weight, and may change during treatment.
• Take Accutane 2 times a day with a meal, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Swallow your Accutane capsules whole with a full glass of liquid. Do not chew or suck on the capsule. Accutane can hurt the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach (esophagus) if it is not swallowed whole.
• If you miss a dose, just skip that dose. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.
• If you take too much Accutane or overdose, call your doctor or poison control center right away.
• Your acne may get worse when you first start taking Accutane. This should last only a short while. Talk with your doctor if this is a problem for you.
• You must return to your doctor as directed to make sure you don’t have signs of serious side effects. Your doctor may do blood tests to check for serious side effects from Accutane. Female patients who can get pregnant will get a pregnancy test each month.
• Female patients who can become pregnant must agree to use 2 separate forms of effective birth control at the same time 1 month before, while taking, and for 1 month after taking Accutane. You must access the iPLEDGE system to answer questions about the program requirements and to enter your 2 chosen forms of birth control. To access the iPLEDGE system, go to www.ipledgeprogram.com or call 1-866-495-0654.

You must talk about effective birth control methods with your doctor or go for a free visit to talk about birth control with another doctor or family planning expert. Your doctor can arrange this free visit, which will be paid for by the company that makes Accutane.
If you have sex at any time without using 2 forms of effective birth control, get pregnant, or miss your expected period, stop using Accutane and call your doctor right away.

What should I avoid while taking Accutane?

• Do not get pregnant while taking Accutane and for 1 month after stopping Accutane. See “What is the most important information I should know about Accutane?”
• Do not breast feed while taking Accutane and for 1 month after stopping Accutane. We do not know if Accutane can pass through your milk and harm the baby.
• Do not give blood while you take Accutane and for 1 month after stopping Accutane. If someone who is pregnant gets your donated blood, her baby may be exposed to Accutane and may be born with birth defects.
• Do not take other medicines or herbal products with Accutane unless you talk to your doctor. See “What should I tell my doctor before taking Accutane?”.
• Do not drive at night until you know if Accutane has affected your vision. Accutane may decrease your ability to see in the dark.
• Do not have cosmetic procedures to smooth your skin, including waxing, dermabrasion, or laser procedures, while you are using Accutane and for at least 6 months after you stop. Accutane can increase your chance of scarring from these procedures. Check with your doctor for advice about when you can have cosmetic procedures.
• Avoid sunlight and ultraviolet lights as much as possible. Tanning machines use ultraviolet lights. Accutane may make your skin more sensitive to light.
• Do not share Accutane with other people. It can cause birth defects and other serious health problems.
What are the possible side effects of Accutane?
• Accutane can cause birth defects (deformed babies), loss of a baby before birth (miscarriage), death of the baby, and early (premature) births. See “What is the most important information I should know about Accutane?”
• Accutane may cause serious mental health problems. See “What is the most important information I should know about Accutane?”
• serious brain problems. Accutane can increase the pressure in your brain. This can lead to permanent loss of eyesight and, in rare cases, death. Stop taking Accutane and call your doctor right away if you get any of these signs of increased brain pressure:
• bad headache
• blurred vision
• dizziness
• nausea, or vomiting
• seizures (convulsions)
• stroke
• stomach area (abdomen) problems. Certain symptoms may mean that your internal organs are being damaged. These organs include the liver, pancreas, bowel (intestines), and esophagus (connection between mouth and stomach). If your organs are damaged, they may not get better even after you stop taking Accutane. Stop taking Accutane and call your doctor if you get:
• severe stomach, chest or bowel pain
• trouble swallowing or painful swallowing
• new or worsening heartburn
• diarrhea
• rectal bleeding
• yellowing of your skin or eyes
• dark urine
• bone and muscle problems. Accutane may affect bones, muscles, and ligaments and cause pain in your joints or muscles. Tell your doctor if you plan hard physical activity during treatment with Accutane. Tell your doctor if you get:
• back pain
• joint pain
• broken bone. Tell all healthcare providers that you take Accutane if you break a bone.

Stop Accutane and call your doctor right away if you have muscle weakness. Muscle weakness with or without pain can be a sign of serious muscle damage.

Accutane may stop long bone growth in teenagers who are still growing.

• hearing problems. Stop using Accutane and call your doctor if your hearing gets worse or if you have ringing in your ears. Your hearing loss may be permanent.
• vision problems. Accutane may affect your ability to see in the dark. This condition usually clears up after you stop taking Accutane, but it may be permanent. Other serious eye effects can occur. Stop taking Accutane and call your doctor right away if you have any problems with your vision or dryness of the eyes that is painful or constant. If you wear contact lenses, you may have trouble wearing them while taking Accutane and after treatment.
• lipid (fats and cholesterol in blood) problems. Accutane can raise the level of fats and cholesterol in your blood. This can be a serious problem. Return to your doctor for blood tests to check your lipids and to get any needed treatment. These problems usually go away when Accutane treatment is finished.
• serious allergic reactions. Stop taking Accutane and get emergency care right away if you develop hives, a swollen face or mouth, or have trouble breathing. Stop taking Accutane and call your doctor if you get a fever, rash, or red patches or bruises on your legs.
• blood sugar problems. Accutane may cause blood sugar problems including diabetes. Tell your doctor if you are very thirsty or urinate a lot.
• decreased red and white blood cells. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, faint, or feel weak.

The common, less serious side effects of Accutane are dry skin, chapped lips, dry eyes, and dry nose that may lead to nosebleeds. Call your doctor if you get any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
These are not all of the possible side effects with Accutane. Your doctor or pharmacist can give you more detailed information.

How should I store Accutane?

• Store Accutane at room temperature, between 59° and 86°F. Protect from light.
• Keep Accutane and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General Information about Accutane.

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions that are not mentioned in Medication Guides. Do not use Accutane for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give Accutane to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.
This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about Accutane. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about Accutane that is written for health care professionals. You can also call iPLEDGE program at 1-800-495-0654 or visit www.ipledgeprogram.com.

What are the ingredients in Accutane?

Active Ingredient: Isotretinoin

Inactive Ingredients: beeswax, butylated hydroxyanisole, edetate disodium, hydrogenated soybean oil flakes, hydrogenated vegetable oil, and soybean oil. Gelatin capsules contain glycerin and parabens (methyl and propyl), with the following dye systems: 10 mg — iron oxide (red) and titanium dioxide; 20 mg — FD&C Red No. 3, FD&C Blue No. 1, and titanium dioxide; 40 mg — FD&C Yellow No. 6, D&C Yellow No. 10, and titanium dioxide.
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Dilantin is a registered trademark of Warner-Lambert Company LLC.

For more information about safer Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=177

Source: FDA.gov

FDA: Facing Facts About Acne

Though it's often portrayed as a scourge of the teen years, acne can affect people of all ages. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 80 percent of people between the ages of 11 and 30 have outbreaks of the skin disorder at some point.

"Many see their acne go away by the time they reach their 30s," says Jane Liedtka, a medical officer at the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). "But for some, acne persists into their 40s and 50s."

For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
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Spurred by inflammation of skin glands and of tiny, narrow canals in the skin known as hair follicles, acne is marked by pimples and other lesions. It commonly appears on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders.

Acne is not usually a serious health condition. "But it can cause significant emotional distress, as well as permanent scarring of skin tissue," says Liedtka, who has 15 years of clinical experience treating acne. She now works in CDER's Division of Dermatology and Dental Products.

A Disease of the PSUs

Clinically, acne is described as a disease of features known as pilosebaceous units (PSUs). Found just under the skin, PSUs are numerous on the face, upper back, and chest, and contain sebaceous glands that are connected to hair follicles. The sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oily substance that empties onto the skin via the hair follicle.

Liedtka explains, "it is known that acne is partly the result of the action of hormones on the skin's oil glands and the hair follicles," she says. "The earliest lesion of acne is a plugging of the pores of the skin."

Factors believed to be related to acne formation include increases in sex hormones called androgens that occur in both boys and girls during puberty. Androgens cause sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum in hair follicles hormonal changes related to pregnancy or to starting or stopping use of birth control pills genetics.

Beware of Myths

"There are many misconceptions out there about how acne forms, as well as on how to treat the condition," says Liedtka.

Here are some facts about acne:

There is no known way to prevent the development of acne.
Acne is not caused by poor hygiene, sweating, or not washing. "These factors do not cause the clogged pores that contribute to acne development," says Liedtka. While medicated washes containing benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur are one form of treatment for acne, simple soap and water does not treat the condition, she adds.
Acne is not caused by diet. No scientific connection has been found between diet and acne. No food—not chocolate, fries, pizza, or any other food—has been shown to cause acne.
Acne does not need to be allowed to run its course. "The condition can be treated," says Liedtka. "There are prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) products for it. If products you have tried haven’t worked, consider seeing a dermatologist."

Types of Acne

Every mark on the skin produced by acne is a type of lesion. The mildest cases of acne produce blackheads and whiteheads. (The color of these is determined by whether the plugged follicle remains open or closed. If it is closed, it is a whitehead.)

More troublesome acne lesions include:

papules – inflamed lesions that usually appear as small, pink bumps on the skin and can be tender to the touch
pustules (pimples) – white or yellow pus-filled lesions that may be red at the base
nodules – large, painful, solid lesions lodged deep within the skin
cysts – deep, painful, pus-filled lesions that can cause scarring
Treatments

The type of treatment people with acne get depends on the severity of the outbreak. "There are OTC products for mild cases, while a visit to a health care professional such as a dermatologist may be in order for the more stubborn cases," says Liedtka.

Acne treatments are regulated by FDA under the same provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act covering prescription and non-prescription (or OTC) products.

Topical OTC medicines are applied to the skin and come in many forms, including gels, lotions, creams, soaps, and pads. Typical OTC treatments for mild acne include benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur.

"It is best to read the labels or talk to your health care professional before you use any of these products, so that you know which is right for you, what if any side effects may occur, and when you can expect to see results," says Liedtka.

Types of prescription topical medicines used to treat acne include antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, dapsone, and vitamin A derivatives known as retinoids.

People with moderate to severe inflammatory acne may be treated with prescription topical or oral medicines, alone or in combination. And people with nodules or cysts should be treated by a dermatologist.

Caution with Isotretinoin

Patients with severe nodular acne that does not improve with the use of other treatments may be prescribed isotretinoin, which is sold under the brand names Accutane, Sotret, Claravis, and Amnesteem.

Isotretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that is taken orally once or twice a day with food for 15 to 20 weeks. It reduces the size of the oil glands so that less oil is produced.

Although effective, isotretinoin is associated with serious side effects, especially for pregnant women. According to the medication guides for these products, isotretinoin can cause serious birth defects in the developing fetus of a pregnant woman. It is vital that women of childbearing age are not pregnant and do not get pregnant while they take isotretinoin, or for 30 days after completion of treatment.

Because isotretinoin can cause birth defects, it is only for patients who can understand and agree to carry out all of the instructions in iPLEDGE, a mandatory distribution program intended to prevent the use of the drug during pregnancy due to the high risk of birth defects.

Products containing isotretinoin may cause serious mental health problems in persons taking the drug. Other side effects include dry eyes, mouth, lips, nose, or skin; itching; nosebleeds; muscle aches; sensitivity to the sun; poor night vision; changes in the blood, such as an increase in fats in the blood; and changes in liver function.

Keeping Acne in Check

Meanwhile, it helps to know what can cause or worsen an outbreak. According to the National Institutes of Health, these factors can make acne worse:

changes in hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women 2 to 7 days before their menstrual period starts oil from skin products (moisturizers or cosmetics) or grease encountered in the work environment (for example, a kitchen with fry vats) pressure from sports helmets or equipment, backpacks, tight collars, or tight sports uniforms environmental irritants, such as pollution and high humidity squeezing or picking at blemishes hard scrubbing of the skin
stress The Web site KidsHealth.org suggests that if you use skin products, such as lotions or makeup, look for ones that are noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic, which means that they don't clog pores.

"Acne can cause a lot of distress," says Liedtka. "But consumers have treatment options. Just remember to learn as many facts as possible, and to disregard the myths. And do not hesitate to talk to a health care professional about your treatment options."

For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=177

Source: This article appears on FDA’s Consumer Updates page, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products

Derma Health Institute and Vanishing Veins Join Forces

(Paradise Valley, AZ) – Clients of Derma Health Institute in Paradise Valley will now be able to take advantage of the services of Vanishing Veins in one convenient location. The public is welcome to an Open House from 9am to 2pm at 10214 N. Tatum Blvd , Ste. B-300 on September 12th to learn more.

Derma Health Institute and Vanishing Veins are two medically licensed companies that also focus on the more aesthetic aspect of these vein procedures. While Derma Health is able to specialize in the removal of the smaller veins that develop on legs, Vanishing Veins can take care of the larger, rope like, symptomatic veins. This partnership allows the two companies to work effectively together to help their customers receive the best results. Both Derma Health Institute and Vanishing Veins pride themselves in not only having the best physicians and medical staff, but also a caring staff.

“This is a unique opportunity for our patients to have new and different services available to them in one location,” Trish Gulbranson, the owner of Derma Health Institute, said. “Vanishing Veins really has the same outlook about helping their patients as Derma Health. That’s why we felt that partnering with them would only help all of our current and future clients,” she added.

Vanishing Veins is offering a special on Cosmetic Sclerotherapy service, which is 30% off the procedure for first time customers of Sclerotherapy .This is a quick procedure that has little to no scarring or recovery time. The procedure is quick and efficient for all customers.

All of the employees at Derma Health Institute are trained, licensed and certified medical and aesthetic professionals. Derma Health Institute offers services such as laser hair removal, microdermabrasion and wrinkle and acne scar reduction. Derma Health Institute always provides customers with free consultations to determine their skin needs. For more information or to schedule your appointment at the Paradise Valley location, call 480-991-7900. You may also visit http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com.

For more information on Vanishing Veins of AZ, go to www.vvarizona.com

Botox Enhances Your Appearance By Eliminating Wrinkles

You will no doubt have heard of the term Botox treatment used in plastic surgery and for cosmetic purposes. Botox is a procedure that while only having gained popularity recently has been being used by doctors all over the world for the past 15 years. As well as to enhance the appearance of those with the finances to afford it Botox is also being used as the treatment for certain health conditions. This article will examine the process of Botox and look at how it is effective in achieving its intended outcomes.

For more information about Botox Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175

The major reason for Botox surgery is to eliminate wrinkles. The theory behind this type of injection is that the chemical once injected, causes the nerve endings to become numb and the muscles being controlled by them to become paralyzed. Why do you want your muscles to be paralyzed you might ask? Because when muscles are paralyzed they are unable to pull tightly to cause wrinkles. Botox injections are primarily administered to the lips, neck, eyes and forehead but can realistically be used on any part of the body.

What most people don’t know however is that Botox injections are also being used to treat certain diseases. There are certain conditions that result from the continual and frequent spasm (or contraction) of certain muscles. Examples of these conditions include Strabismus or cross eye, Dystonia and Blespharospasm. By causing the dulling of small muscles patients of these conditions can begin to notice relief in as little as a few days. Unfortunately for this group the effects of a Botox injection aren’t permanent, but will generally last up to 6 months.

While it has been proven and confirmed by the Food and Drug Administration to be effective, Botox is not a procedure that should be taken lightly. There are potential side effects to having the injection that include nausea, headache, bruising and soreness at the injection site, Ptosis and more. As a curative procedure the chances that these side effects will be outweighed by the benefits of its result are much higher but those who seek Botox for cosmetic reasons need to seek consultation and high consideration before making a decision.

While beginning as a process solely for women, the popularity of Botox is increasing amongst members of both genders. When all is said and done and regardless of the circumstances, Botox treatments do work. Once begun they will have to be renewed every 4 to 6 months and so they represent a long term commitment in terms of time and energy. If you decide Botox is for you and you are willing to make the necessary sacrifices there is no question that you will be happy with the results.

Fo rmore tips on how Botox can enhance your appearance please visit Botox-Procedures.com where you will find helpful information on Botox creams, Botox Risks, Botox doctors, Botox side effects and Botox alternatives.

For more information about Botox Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Gorman

Using Botox For Excessive Sweating

Botox is a well known treatment for removing fine lines and wrinkles. Today, it is also a popular treatment method for excessive sweating. There are a few things you should know before you have a treatment like how a treatment works, what to expect and much more.

For more information about Botox Treatments for Sweating at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=246

Excessive sweating can be a very embarrassing thing. Many people suffer with problems of excessive sweating. If you work in an office environment and you find that you are drenched in sweat and you are the only one you may have a problem. This can be treated. You don't have to go through your work day being embarrassed and having coworkers look at you funny because you are wet with sweat. In addition, sweat smells. You cannot hide the smell of perspiration and when you are in a meeting and covered in sweat it can make for a terrible day. Problems like this require treatments and no matter which kind of deodorant you use nothing will help with out one.

Botox is a protein called Botulinum toxin type A. A treatment of Botox for removing wrinkles and excessive sweating requires a small dose injected into the skin. The Botox will act by blocking the actions of the nerves which are responsible for supplying the endocrine glands. These glands are what cause the body to produce sweat. A small amount will be used to block the nerve endings so excessive sweating no longer occurs. It will not stop sweating altogether but block many of the glands. This treatment will work for up to 12 weeks for some people. It will then wear off and require another treatment.

When you receive a Botox treatment for excessive sweating a fine needle will be used. The needle will be placed under the skin in many areas evenly around the skin approximately in 15 different areas. A treatment like this only takes around 30 minutes. This treatment will be given to someone under the armpits. The skin under the armpit area is very thin which means that a Botox treatment can be felt but the pain is minimal. The needles are very thin and barely felt. The worst pain will be a slight stinging.

When you receive a Botox treatment for excessive sweating you will notice a decrease in the amount you sweat within a week of the treatment. Every body is different. One person may notice immediate improvements while another may not notice improvements for a week or two.

Excessive sweating can be a very embarrassing thing that occurs to your body. There is a way you can treat this. The most common and most effective treatment for this problem is through the use of Botox. Although, Botox is used for anti-wrinkle treatment it also works to block the sweat glands so you no longer sweat in certain areas. You can go through a normal day at work like everyone else without saturating your suit with sweat. A treatment like this is entirely non-invasive, comfortable, and only takes less than an hour.

For more information about Botox Treatments for Sweating at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=246

For further information, please visit http://www.cosmedocs.co.uk.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hayi_Mansoor

Ramp Up Your Looks With Botox Treatments

By Nick Messe

You may have just discovered that, to your horror, you have sprouted frown lines and wrinkles on your once youthful face, and crow's feet near your eyes. Now all you can think of is getting rid of those impertinent insults to your good looks.

For more information about Botox at Derma Health Institute, go to:
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There is something you can do to reduce signs of aging. It is called Botox, which may sound a little frightening at first. You may have heard that it is the cosmetic form of botulinum toxin. That word that reminds us of botulism, which certainly has unpleasant connotations.

Botox, however, is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and has steadily gained popularity as the most performed cosmetic procedure the world over. Indeed, this toxin has the ability to relax the muscles that cause wrinkles.

The medication is injected into a frown or wrinkle crease, blocking nerve impulses and smoothing out the skin. It used to be that the only way to minimize the wrinkles on aging, sagging skin, was to go under the knife.

This, of course, was a rather drastic procedure. It was one that involved a lot of healing while the patient hid behind closed doors and then big hats and sunglasses. To top it off, the surgery would need to be repeated in a few short years.

Botox, on the other hand, is administered in pleasantly appointed medical spas by the capable hands of board certified Nurse Practitioners. These facilities are safe and clean and devoted to a patient's complete physical and mental comfort.

Be sure to take your time and ask lots of questions at your initial evaluation consultation. The nurse will explain that while there is some discomfort, it will be brief and low on a scale of one to ten. If you are particularly sensitive, the practitioner can use a cold pack or anesthetic cream.

You will gradually see a plumping up of your creases in two to three days, culminating in about seven days. Plumping can remain for a period of four to six months. The beauty of this treatment is that it is gradual. Your friends will notice that you look rested and fresher, but they will not suspect that you had something done unless you tell them.

When you notice the wrinkles coming back, you can simply have another session, or let the frown lines and crow's feet return. We'll bet that you will opt for a tune-up because Botox is fast, safe, and subtle.

For more information about Botox at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175

About the Author

Nick Messe is the founder and president of Lead Frog LLC. Find out more about Botox Treatment Chicago. Visit chicago laser hair removal and botox Chicago specialists.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Messe

Laser Hair Removal: How to Prepare and What To Expect

If you live in Orange County, laser hair removal options are easy to take advantage of. There are many benefits laser hair removal can offer you, but it can be quite expensive depending on where you go for the procedure. Up to 22% of women in North America have excessive or unwanted facial hair which negatively affects the quality of life for many individuals. There is an abundance of plastic surgery centers and medical spas that perform Orange County laser hair removal. To achieve a satisfactory level of hair removal, a series of 4 to 6 treatments are typically required.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

What is Laser Hair Removal?

The laser hair removal procedure uses laser light. This is an intense, pulsating beam of light used to remove unwanted hair. It works by the laser targeting the dark pigment in the hair called melanin. When the light beam passes over the hair follicle, the heat destroys the follicle. The near-infrared laser light that is absorbed by the pigment located in the hair follicle. The light is pulsed on the hair follicles for only a fraction of a section. The amount of time that the laser it on the follicle is just long enough to damage it, but not injure the skin of the patient.

What to Expect Prior to the Procedure

Once you decide on an office specializing in Orange County laser hair removal they should give you information on how to prep for the procedure. Typically, you only need to shave the night before. It requires minimal hair stubble and any discomfort that you would feel during the procedure is minor.

What to Expect During the Procedure

During the procedure, the specialist will press a hand-held laser instrument to your skin. With a cool gel on top of your skin in addition to another device designed to cool on contact, your skin is cooled as the laser works on the hair follicles. The length of time for the procedure depends on the area of the body involved and the amount of hair. A small area could take up to 15 minutes while a much larger area, such as a back, may take up to 45 minutes.

What to Expect After the Procedure

Once your specialist has completed the procedure, you may have some minor discomfort and some redness for the first few hours. It's advisable to avoid exercise for the first 24 hours after the procedure. Perspiration is known to cause irritation in the areas the laser was used. You should also avoid sun exposure for several weeks after the treatment and make sure to apply sunscreen whenever you do go in the sun after the initial period.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

For more detailed information on Cosmetic Surgery, or to locate an Orange County breast augmentation specialist, please visit CosmetiCare.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_Valeman

Is Laser Hair Removal Painful?

If you have hair growing in places it shouldn't there are only a few treatments available that offer relief from this unsightly growth. There are some creams and lotions but these have a large potential for rash and other skin disorders. You can pluck or wax but these make you feel like your skin is being ripped off instead of just your hair. Lastly, you can have a laser hair removal treatment to remove the hair and stop it from growing again.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

Since 1996 this treatment has been used on thousands of people with ugly hair growth and they have been very satisfied. The theory behind this method of hair removal is really quite simple and straight forward. A low power laser light is used to heat up the pigments in the hair follicle and inhibits its function. The hair follicle is the little natural factory that converts the bodies nutrients into hair shaft material. It is also know as the hair root but this in not technically correct. The highly focused light energy is applied to the follicle and this in turn stops the hair shaft from growing. The shaft then dies and falls out.

Some people are worried by the term laser but there really is no reason to be. These are not at all like the ones you see on Star Wars or other space fantasy shows. The lasers used in hair removal are low power and designed specifically to target only the pigment in the hair and follicle.

There is very little pain and discomfort associated with these treatments because of the low amount of light energy used. Since the laser targets pigment, people with dark skin may experience some irritation like a slight sunburn but this is easily controlled with creams and lotions and goes away after a few days. Also, people with very sensitive skin may feel some discomfort but it subsides quickly.

In general, this is a very safe and affective way to control unwanted hair. Any discomfort felt is many times less than the pain associated with waxing and plucking. If you want that smooth, clean look then you really must get all the facts about this great way to remove unwanted hair.

Compared to other methods of hair control, laser hair removal is very competitive. If you are interested in finding out how much laser removal costs then you can go to the Laser Hair Removal Costs hub and find out. You will also find other in depth information available to help you make an informed decision on the best hair removal treatment.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

There is nothing worse than having unwanted hair in places it shouldn't be. You know what I mean, like the mustache your aunt had or the wisps of hair that stuck out of your grandmother's chin. If you don't want to end up with hair growing all over the place then you should look into hair removal systems. One of the easiest and most cost effect systems is the laser hair removal system.

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 may sound scary but in reality it has been proven to be very safe. Laser technology has been in use since 1996 and it has helped many thousands of people to live a life free of unwanted hair. Whether you have a small area or a large area to treat, this technique can help you to get the smooth, clean appearance you desire.

The theory behind this type of hair removal is really quite simple. A laser light is used to heat up the hair follicle, the part that grows the hair shaft, and this heating inhibits the ability of the follicle to continue to grow the hair shaft material. Since the hair can not grow any more it eventually dies and falls out. In most cases the hair will not grow back from that particular follicle because it no longer has the ability to transform the nutrients found in the blood supply into hair shaft material. It may take more than one treatment for full results though because the laser is only affective on follicles that are actually growing.

Hair grows in a cyclical nature thus not all follicles are active at the same time. They grow hair for a while and then rest before starting the process over. Any of the hairs that were in the resting stage during the treatment will need to be retreated once they start growing again. This is completely natural and should not alarm you at all. Generally, this procedure is viewed as very beneficial because of the extremely low level of pain and discomfort felt. It is nothing like plucking or waxing which can feel like your actual skin is being removed.

If you would like more information on the benefits of Laser Hair Removal you can learn all about the cost of laser hair removal and any other information you may need in order to make an informed decision. Visit the Laser Hair Removal Cost hub and map out your plan to get rid of all that unwanted hair.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=L.S._Schneider

Laser Hair Removal: Is it Right For You?

By: Alli Ross

Laser hair removal is heavily advertised but little is known about this technology. However, that will change after you spend 58 seconds to read every word of this article and become well-informed on permanent hair removal. After analyzing the facts you will be able to make a decision on whether or not laser hair removal is right for you.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

How It Works

The laser is used to quickly and gently remove unwanted hairs.
Laser hair removal uses a light wavelength that targets dark colored materials on your skin. This is usually the pigment of the hair. A hand held device is then used to target these areas and remove hair from them. This procedure works best for those with fair colored skin and dark colored hair. With darker skin, it is harder to target these areas. People with darker skin can be treated, but results are slower and more sessions are required. Also, you'll want to find a doctor with greater expertise if you do have darker skin.

Laser Hair Removal must be individualized for each patient.
Different types of hair respond differently to the laser procedure. Coarse dark hair seems to respond the best to laser treatment. Light hair is much more difficult to treat. Blonde or red hair becomes extremely complicated. With lighter hair, results are variable and you must have multiple treatment sessions.

Actually, almost everyone requires multiple treatment sessions for optimal results. This is because hair grows in cycles. Not all of the hairs are in the growth phase at any given time. Additional sessions insure that you catch all of the hairs when they are in the growth phase.

Cost of Laser Hair Removal
The costs of laser hair removal can vary depending on your location. However, they range from $300 to $500 per session. Because this is a form of medical care, it is always best to seek the clinic with the highest quality rather than the lowest price. Laser hair removal requires many years of training, individual attention, experience, and a trained, caring, and professional staff.

Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal
Most patients do experience some very minor side effects after each session. This is usually in the form of a mild sunburn-type sensation that goes away in 2-3 hours. Moisturizers and cool compresses can help to relieve any discomfort during this time. Any small blister areas that may appear should be treated with a topical antibiotic until resolved. Because you have been exposed to this particular form of light ray, sun block should be used for up to 6 weeks after treatment if you expect to be exposed to the sun. Any further instructions should be given by your doctor.

If you tired of waxing or shaving, laser hair removal may be the perfect solution for you. Now that you know more about it, you should be able to make the right choice for you.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

Author Bio
For more information on laser hair removal, visit www.laserhairportal.com. Your days of tweezing, waxing, and shaving may soon be over.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com

Lumenis LightSheer Laser Hair Removal Featured in New York Times

SANTA CLARA, Calif., July 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Lumenis' High Speed LightSheer(R) Duet(TM) for permanent hair reduction was featured recently in the New York Times Fashion & Style section with Dr. Arielle Kauvar, Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology New York University Medical Center and Founding Director, New York Laser & Skin Care. During the interview, Dr. Kauvar described the LightSheer Duet as a welcome relief for men seeking a smoother appearance, with reduction in treatment time and improved patient comfort. "Men who wanted to have their back hair removed permanently, for example, often had to sit with a topical anesthetic for an hour before each of a half-dozen visits, so there used to be the 'time and pain and nuisance' factor." With the advent of the High Speed LightSheer Duet welcome relief has arrived. Now 'big swaths of hair can be removed in multiple 15-minute treatments," stated Dr. Kauvar.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

To read the New York Times Fashion & Style piece with Dr. Arielle Kauvar discussing why she prefers the speed and comfort of the LightSheer Duet over older hair removal methods with their 'time and pain and nuisance factors', go to: http://www.aesthetic.lumenis.com/wt/page/inthenews

To watch side-by-side comparisons of the NEW High Speed LightSheer Duet with versus other lasers in terms of treatment speed and comfort, visit: http://www.highspeedlightsheer-challenge.com

"Clearly men accept that excessive body hair can be unattractive and uncomfortable. However, very few have the patience to subject themselves to lengthy hair removal procedures, particularly if pain is involved. Thanks to the new High Speed LightSheer Duet, these men will now be able to schedule appointments that are far more convenient, get in and have their back or chest treated with speed and comfort, get out and return to their normal routine," said Mr. Robert Mann, General Manager of Lumenis Global Aesthetics & Dermatology Business.

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery estimates 14% of the 1.3 million laser hair removal procedures performed in 2008 within the US alone were for men, whereas 83% for women (www.surgery.org). Other reports estimate procedure volume to be much higher. Faster and comfortable treatment alternatives such as the new High Speed LightSheer Duet have the potential to expand this market significantly. Clinicians already report an increase in number of younger men seeking laser hair removal in general. This is further supported by online advertorials for major razor manufacturers geared towards attracting and educating younger men on the benefits of shaving multiple body areas.

"Laser hair removal offers permanent results for long term satisfaction -- actual reduction in hair count and thickness. This is a major advantage over the temporary satisfaction and ongoing nuisance associated with shaving or waxing," added Dr. Mitchel P. Goldman, MD. Clinical Professor Dermatology/Medicine, University of California, San Diego and Medical Director of La Jolla Spa MD. "I have personally tried all of the various hair removal lasers developed over the past 18 years, to remove the hair on my own back in addition to my patients. The new LightSheer Duet is the best by far! The procedure was literally painless for me, and took only 15 minutes. Actually, I'm still nearly hair free four months post treatment. This is definitely the best thing I've ever done for my back."

About Lumenis' LightSheer Duet

The LightSheer Duet features two hair removal systems on one versatile platform enabling clinicians to optimize permanent hair reduction anywhere on the body. The platform also includes the LightSheer ET system, which is ideal for smaller or bony areas such as the upper lip, chin, or around the ankles. The performance of this system is well documented and clinically validated, satisfying customers worldwide with over 6000 LightSheer systems installed.

The New LightSheer HS (High Speed handpiece) features a large 22x35 mm diode array that is designed for treating large areas such as legs, arms, chests, abdomen, shoulders and backs. LightSheer HS employs fully integrated vacuum assist technology to gently lift skin into the treatment aperture prior to applying laser energy. With this approach, the targeted tissue is gently stretched and thinned, minimizing competing chromophores by blanching vessels and spreading skin pigmentation over a larger area, in addition to pulling the hair follicle closer to the skin's surface. The cumulative result is that energy is delivered more efficiently to achieve excellent clinical results with speed and comfort. These combined features allow clinicians to treat large areas easily and quickly, leading to a significant reduction in treatment time, which essentially eliminates clinician fatigue and revolutionizes treatment economics.

For more information about Laser Hair Removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171

About Lumenis

Lumenis Ltd., a global developer, manufacturer and seller of laser, light-based and radiofrequency devices for aesthetic, surgical and ophthalmic applications, is Israel's largest medical device company with more than 800 employees worldwide. The Company invests heavily in R&D and holds a leading position in the markets in which it serves. Lumenis has over 250 patents worldwide, over 75 FDA clearances, worldwide presence in over 100 countries, and an installed base of over 70,000 systems. For more information about Lumenis and its products, log onto www.lumenis.com.

Using Botox to Eliminate Excessive Sweating

Summer has arrived and with the rise in temperature comes an increase in perspiration levels. As we all know white/light colors are cooler to where in the intense sunlight. Unfortunately, many of us suffer from excessive sweating leaving behind embarrassing stains on our light colored clothing.

Ask yourself:

Do you feel your deodorant is not working?
Do you frequently find your clothing extremely wet with sweat?
Do you feel the need to change shirts or carry extra shirts with you?
Do you feel the need to shower more frequently to manage perspiration and body odor?
Do you have to buy more clothes to replace ones ruined by perspiration stains?
If many answers to these questions are “yes” you may want to consider treatment for this troublesome condition. Lucky for us, in our modern age we can do wonders in saving our clothing and being able to confidently raise our arms high.

Botox Cosmetic has been effectively used for relaxing facial muscle to smooth facial lines but did you know it can miraculously decrease excessive sweating?

With a simple procedure perspiration can be significantly decreased with lasting effects up to 1 yr. Contact us today on how we may help you get through the summer months wearing your favorite light colors stain free!

For more information on Eliminating Excessive Underarm Sweating With Botox, see:
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Common Pigmentation Problems and Solutions in Skin of Color

BOSTON, July 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As we age, brown spots and splotchy skin are all too often a fact of life. But for people with darker skin, changes in pigmentation can occur without warning at any age and can be very difficult to treat. Fortunately, dermatologists can help people with skin of color diagnose and treat bothersome pigmentation problems.

At the American Academy of Dermatology's Summer Academy Meeting 2009 in Boston, dermatologist Jonith Y. Breadon, M.D., FAAD, co-chair of Dermasurgery at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County in Chicago, discussed pigmentation problems that occur more frequently in darker-skinned patients and how early diagnosis is key to stopping the progression of these skin conditions.

"Even though people with skin of color have less moles and experience less premature aging from the sun than lighter-skinned individuals, in some ways their darker pigmentation makes their skin more vulnerable to other skin problems," said Dr. Breadon. "While these skin discolorations can be stubborn, there are treatments that offer noticeable improvement."

Hyperpigmentation

One of the most common pigmentation problems in darker-skinned individuals is hyperpigmentation (or the darkening of the skin). Usually the result of some type of inflammation or injury to the skin, such as a cut, burn or scrape, hyperpigmentation produces darkened areas of the skin that can last months or years. Even healed acne lesions can leave permanent dark spots in darker-skinned people that, in some cases, can be more distressing than the original acne.

Dr. Breadon noted that treatments for hyperpigmentation are based on whether or not the dark areas are confined to the surface of the skin or if they have penetrated to the deeper layers of the skin. For superficial dark spots, a prescription topical medication consisting of hydroquinone, retinoic acid and mild hydrocortisone can be effective in fading skin discoloration. Deeper dark areas require an in-office surgical procedure, such as dermabrasion, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion with an infusion of hydroquinone solution. In patients with lighter skin, intense pulsed light (IPL) or one of the pigmented lasers could be considered.

"Patients with any type of hyperpigmentation problem need to use a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) regularly - the higher SPF the better," said Dr. Breadon. "There is no cure for this condition, so even when patients experience clearing, it can come back. For most patients, I usually recommend a three-month topical regimen then long-term maintenance with a sunscreen."

Melasma

Often referred to as the "mask of pregnancy," melasma is a skin condition marked by brown patches on areas such as the face, neck and arms that most often affects dark-skinned people and women in particular. Many dermatologists have long believed that there may be a hormonal component to melasma, and a recently published study found that there were an increased number of estrogen receptors in areas where patients developed melasma.

For this reason, Dr. Breadon advises patients with melasma to consider stopping oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy due to the large amount of estrogens in these medications. Regular sunscreen use is vital to protect the skin from further hyperpigmentation.

With melasma, the skin can be affected in three different ways: on the epidermis (superficial layer), in the dermis (deep layer) or a mixture of both the epidermis and dermis. Dermatologists use a light device known as the Woods lamp, which shows skin diseases as specific colors, to determine how deep melasma has penetrated the skin.

For more information about Derma Health Institute, go to:
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For superficial melasma, the triple cream combination of hydroquinone, retinoic acid and mild hydrocortisone with regular sunscreen use can be effective, with clearance occurring in about three months for most patients. Dr. Breadon noted that cases where melasma has penetrated the dermis are very difficult to treat and the combination triple cream medication will not be effective in these patients. However, some patients may experience improvement with microdermabrasion, dermabrasion, chemical peels or lasers. In cases where both the epidermis and the dermis are involved, the triple cream medication may offer some improvement for some patients.

"Melasma is hard to define, as it can occur in women during or after pregnancy or in women who have never been pregnant or used oral contraceptives," said Dr. Breadon. "While lasers can be effective, there are risks of further hyperpigmentation and results vary greatly from person to person. Dermatologists can help patients decide the best course of treatment, depending on the severity of the condition."

Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is a common inflammatory disease of the skin and the mouth that is characterized by a rash of round, or oval, violet-colored lesions. While lichen planus can affect people of all races and genders, it is more pronounced in people with darker skin since, as the lesions heal, the affected skin can develop very dark, leopard-looking spots.

When caught early, steroid injections are used to reduce the inflammation thereby minimizing hyperpigmentation. However, if the condition progresses before it can be treated and dark spots appear, Dr. Breadon explained that the triple cream topical medication, mild or systemic steroids, or lasers can be used with varying degrees of success to try to lighten the darkened areas of the skin.

"Detecting lichen planus early can make all the difference between spots that heal without hyperpigmentation and spots that are extremely pronounced and do not fade on their own," said Dr. Breadon. "That's why it is critical that people who experience an unexplained rash see their dermatologist immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ashy Dermatosis

Another skin condition that affects people of color, and especially African-Americans, is ashy dermatosis. While the cause of ashy dermatosis is unknown, it usually starts as a flat, dark grayish-brown rash that appears bi-laterally (or on both sides of body, such as both arms or both legs).

Ashy dermatosis closely resembles a condition known as fixed drug eruption, which causes the same type of pigmentation problem and is the result of an allergy to a food, medication or workplace trigger. For example, one of Dr. Breadon's patients with this type of rash noticed a flare when she would consume a particular sugar substitute - which was eventually identified as the trigger.

"Based on my evaluation of numerous cases of ashy dermatosis and fixed drug eruption, my theory is that these two conditions are actually one in the same," said Dr. Breadon. "That's why I think it is so important to identify the trigger, as this can help alleviate the rash and prevent its spread. I encourage my patients to keep a food diary or a list of any medications or items with which they come into contact to see if we can identify the source of the problem."

Dr. Breadon noted that ashy dermatosis and fixed drug eruption can be very difficult to treat. A compound lotion of salicylic acid, a mid-potency steroid and hydroquinone can offer gradual clearing. Regular use of sunscreen with a high SPF also is highly recommended to avoid further hyperpigmentation.

"It is important for people with darker skin to be aware of any changes in their skin and to see a dermatologist at the first sign of anything unusual," said Dr. Breadon. "Dermatologists not only can diagnose and provide the best treatment options for a particular pigmentation problem, but also can rule out a serious condition, such as skin cancer."

For more information about Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com

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 16,000 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.