Black Friday Skin Specials at Derma Health Institute of Arizona

Friday, November 26th from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

You won't see specials like this anywhere! Skip the crowds at the mall and stop by Derma Health Institute! One Day Only Skin Treatment Specials for Black Friday:

• The First 10 people to arrive at each location will receive either $100 in FREE Botox® or a FREE Latisse!


• 35% Off All Laser Treatments: Take your pick! Laser Skin Tightening, Laser Genesis, Laser Vein Removal, Laser Tattoo Removal, Laser Hair Removal, and more! Excludes ActiveFX.


• Juvederm Facial Filler: Diminish Wrinkles and Plump Lips! Only $349 a syringe.


• $75 Off HCH Diet: Lose 26 Pounds in 26 Days! More information on the HCG Diet.


• $75.00 off B-12 package: Better energy, sleep, concentration and improved mood. More information on Vitamin B-12 shots.


• $30.00 Off* your purchase of $100 or more on aesthetic services or products.

May use Brilliant Distinctions Points. May not be combined with other offers. May pre-purchase as of November 22, 2010. $100 OFF rebates also available in clinic. See Clinic for details.

http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/

Our Arizona coverage area includes, but is not limited to Ahwatukee, Apache Junction, Avondale, Buckeye, Camp Verde, Carefree, Casa Grande, Cave Creek, Chandler, Clarkdale, Cottonwood, El Mirage, Eloy, Florence, Fountain Hills, Gila Bend, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Guadalupe, Litchfield Park, Marana, Maricopa, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Peoria, Phoenix, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, and Tempe.

Obesity: Like Mother Like Daughter? Say It Isn't So!

RED BANK, N.J., Oct. 4 -- Despite rising awareness of America's obesity epidemic and the secondary health risks associated with excess weight, new research released today by HealthyWomen (HW) shows that while the majority of women believe a parent's obesity has an influence on a child's risk of becoming obese (87%), surprisingly only one-quarter (28%) of women surveyed assign the responsibility to themselves. In reality, studies have shown stronger correlation over time for mother-child obesity compared with father-child obesity.

And the influence starts early. Only 11% of women in HealthyWomen's WomenTALK survey realized that a child's risk of becoming obese more than doubles if the mother is obese during her first trimester of pregnancy. According to recent research, this impacts roughly one in five women that are obese when they become pregnant. Forty-six percent of respondents to the HealthyWomen survey were unsure of the effect of maternal obesity on the risk of a child becoming obese. Yet, studies show the risk for newborn complications, including long-term complications like obesity, is even higher for severely obese women with a BMI of 35 or more.

BMI (body mass index) is an established measure utilized by physicians and health experts to determine weight status and is calculated from a person's height and weight. Obesity is defined as having a BMI of 30 or greater according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

But because a mother's influence is so strong, some see the survey findings as an opportunity to reverse bad behaviors and a call to action for breaking the cycle once and for all.

"While the statistics are disconcerting, we know that mothers are commonly viewed as role models for eating behavior and serve as gatekeepers of food," said Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, RN, executive director of HealthyWomen. "From an early age, children tend to eat the same foods as their parents, especially mothers, so exposure to nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables is not only setting a good example, but also positioning your child on a lifelong course of good health."

Knowing the Personal Risks of Obesity

The HealthyWomen survey found that while there is a great understanding among women that obesity leads to an increased risk in developing secondary health conditions such as high blood pressure (93%), Type 2 diabetes (89%), and heart disease (88%), less than one-third of women recognize the increased risk of colon cancer (26%), gallstones (30%), and breast cancer (23%).

"Women need to be their own advocates in the fight against all of these diseases," said Battaglino Cahill, "and understanding the influence that friends and family have on the likelihood that they will become obese is part of what's slowing them down. We need to help women understand that they have the opportunity to positively wield their influence by taking charge of their own nutrition and physical activity habits."

While a majority of the women surveyed acknowledge other people's obesity can influence their own likelihood of becoming obese (80%), only 28% recognize the impact of a friend. In fact, studies show that a person has a much greater chance (57%) of becoming obese if he or she had a friend who became obese than if he/she had a sibling (40%) or spouse (37%) who became obese.

Bestselling author and Chief Medical Correspondent for Discovery Health TV Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH, FACP acknowledged the survey findings bring new light to prior conceptions and emphasize the importance of personal responsibility. "Battling obesity is a matter of making smart decisions," she said.

A practicing internist and author of Body for Life for Women, Dr. Peeke advocates simple changes like adding whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in addition to moderate weekly activity for beginning steps to a healthier lifestyle. "It's a basic formula of eating less, making better choices, and moving more," she said.

Call to Action

HW has created an online resource center with tips and tools specific to the WomenTALK survey including BMI and target heart rate calculators, family-friendly recipes, and exercise videos at www.HealthyWomen.org/womenTALK. The site also features educational content together with advice from Dr. Peeke and motivational articles including a personal perspective from boxer Muhammad Ali's daughter and obesity advocate Khaliah Ali.

About the Survey

This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of HealthyWomen from August 24-26, 2010 among 1,037 women ages 18 and older. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated.

About HealthyWomen

HealthyWomen (HW) is the nation's leading independent health information source for women. To learn more, visit www.HealthyWomen.org.

Seven Myths of Breast Augmentation Surgery

SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- With so many rampant misconceptions about breast augmentation or breast enhancement surgery, Salt Lake City plastic surgeon, Dr. Heidi Regenass, addresses some of the most common questions and concerns.

Dr. Regenass notes, "Many women have questions about breast augmentation or breast enhancement surgery, but are too timid to ask. Others may believe stories they hear on the Internet. As such, I'd like to address a few of the most common breast augmentation or enhancement questions that I receive every day."

1. Can breast augmentation look natural?
Yes. In fact, many patients do not want an obvious augmentation where "everybody notices". Breast augmentation, whether saline or silicone, can and should look and feel very natural. The cosmetic result is determined by the patient's tissue and the skill of the surgeon. That is why choosing an experienced, board certified Plastic Surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation is very important.

2. Are breast augmentations and tummy tucks painful?
Not at the Gateway Aesthetic Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah. We realize that patient comfort is a priority, and so, where appropriate, we use pain pumps for breast enhancement and tummy tuck procedures. A pain pump will significantly decrease discomfort after surgery and will allow for a more rapid and comfortable healing. Our patients often report being amazed at the ease of the procedure compared to what they were expecting.

3. Are silicone implants dangerous?
Although women in the early 1990s were claiming that silicone made them "sick", there has never been any evidence to support these claims. As a precaution, silicone implants were taken off the market for a period of time for women undergoing their first cosmetic augmentation. Their use was limited to women having implants for reconstructive purposes, until more research could be conducted. Fortunately, the ban was lifted a few years ago, so currently women, aged 22 years and older, can again have silicone implants. Many patients prefer the more "natural" look and feel of silicone gel implants and women who already have saline implants are opting to have their saline implants exchanged for silicone. So the truth is that silicone implants are safe and they look and feel great!

4. Is everyone a good candidate for plastic surgery?
No, some patients have underlying medical conditions that make elective cosmetic surgery dangerous. This is exactly the reason we encourage patients to make an appointment to see if their goals are realistic and possible.

5. Should breast implants only be considered after completing childbearing?
Many women want to enjoy the benefits of breast augmentation during their childbearing years and beyond. There is no reason to wait until after you have had your children to get implants. Some women are concerned about being able to breast feed after they have breast augmentation. As a rule of thumb, if a woman has successfully breast-fed before implants, thereby indicating that she can breastfeed, she has a good chance of still being able to do so after an augmentation. That said, if a woman has sagging breasts, and also needs a mastopexy (breast lift), in addition to implants, then it is generally best to wait until after childbearing and breastfeeding has concluded.

6. Are implants the only option for breast augmentation?
No. Until recently though, it was true that in order to enhance a woman's bust size, an implant was required. However, with new and safe technologies, some women are actually candidates for "natural" breast enhancement. This procedure involves taking fat from unwanted areas of the body and transferring it to the breasts for augmentation. It's a safe, comfortable, effective procedure that does not even require general anesthesia!

7. Is it true that only a cosmetic surgeon is qualified to perform plastic surgery?
Unfortunately, any doctor can call themselves a "cosmetic surgeon" and not be board certified in plastic surgery. That said, the only doctors who should be performing plastic surgery are those with the specific training. They should be board certified in 1) Plastic Surgery, 2) Dermatology, 3) ENT/facial plastic surgery, or 4) Oculoplastic Surgery. Before trusting your looks and health to just anyone, make sure your chosen doctor is board certified and experienced. Rest assured, all the doctors at the Gateway Aesthetic Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah are board certified and specialize in their particular areas of expertise.

Heidi Regenass, M.D., is a board certified plastic surgeon in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the Gateway Aesthetic Institute and Laser Center. Born in Zimbabwe, Dr. Regenass specializes in variety of plastic surgery procedures for both men and women to help them achieve their desired cosmetic result. Specifically, she specializes in plastic surgery procedures that rejuvenate the face and body, enhancing one's natural beauty including both breast enhancement and tummy tucks.

Dr. Regenass received her medical degree from the University of Utah where she excelled academically and was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. She went on to perform her general surgery residency at the Mayo Clinic, followed by a plastic surgery residency at the University of Utah. For more than 20 years, Dr. Regenass has been dedicated to the holistic practice of medicine to help her patients achieve their health and beauty goals. Dr. Regenass and the dedicated team of healthcare professionals at Gateway Aesthetic look forward to helping you look and feel your very best.
In addition to being board certified, Dr. Regenass is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

SOURCE Gateway Aesthetic Institute & Laser Center

Can Adding a Side Salad to a Cheeseburger Help You Lose Weight?

EVANSTON, Ill., Sept. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Can adding a side salad to a cheeseburger help one lose weight? New research from the Kellogg School of Management suggests that people, particularly those who characterize themselves as weight conscious, tend to believe that adding a healthy option to an otherwise indulgent meal will lower the total calorie count.

"Despite the growing availability of healthier, diet-friendly foods, the proliferation of diets, and the increasing number of public policy initiatives aimed at obesity, the proportion of overweight individuals in the United States continues to increase," says Alexander Chernev, study author and associate professor of marketing at the Kellogg School Management at Northwestern University. "An important factor contributing to the obesity epidemic is the misguided belief about the relationship between a meal's healthiness and its impact on weight gain. People erroneously believe that eating healthy foods in addition to unhealthy ones can decrease a meal's calorie count."

In earlier research, Chernev identified consumers' tendency to underestimate their calorie intake. In his new study, Chernev builds on this concept, documenting a striking outcome: this propensity to misestimate calories is stronger among weight-conscious people, who would seem most likely to closely monitor their diets.

As a part of this study, 934 participants from a nationwide online research panel were asked to estimate the calorie content of several meals. Some were shown a series of relatively unhealthy meals, and others were shown the same meals combined with a healthy option. For example, some of the participants were shown a bowl of chili with cheese, whereas the others were shown the same bowl of chili paired with a small green side salad. The other food pairs included a cheeseburger, which for some of the participants was paired with three celery sticks; a bacon-and-cheese waffle sandwich (paired with a small organic apple); and a meatball pepperoni cheesesteak (paired with a celery-and-carrot side dish).

Results were astounding. Those who viewed the chili alone rated it as averaging 699 calories. In contrast, those who were shown the chili combined with the green salad estimated it to have only 656 calories. Thus, adding a green salad to the bowl of chili lowered the perceived calorie content of the entire meal by 43 calories—as if the green salad had negative calories. This negative calorie illusion was observed with all four meals tested, indicating the prevalence of the belief that one can consume fewer calories simply by adding a healthy item to a meal.

"Because people believe that adding a healthy option can lower a meal's calorie content, the negative calorie illusion can lead to overconsumption, thus contributing to the obesity trend," says Chernev.

What was even more surprising, however, was that dieters—who are presumably more involved in monitoring their calorie intake and more familiar with the calorie content of different meal options—were more likely to fall into the negative calorie illusion trap. In fact, the illusion was twice as strong for the weight-conscious groups (who on average underestimated the combined meal by 76 calories or 10.8%) than for those who were rather indifferent to their weight (who on average underestimated the combined meal by 33 calories or 4.8%).

To combat the "dieter's paradox," as Chernev has termed this phenomenon, he recommends shifting the focus of current public policy campaigns away from the stereotypes associated with "good" and "bad" foods. When product ads and public policy communications stereotype foods into virtues and vices, they tend to shift people's attention away from the quantity of food consumed. According to Chernev, this neglect of quantity might end up implicitly promoting the illusion of negative calories.

"The bottom line here is that motivating people to lose weight without educating them on how to monitor their calorie intake might not be enough to combat obesity. As the dieter's paradox shows, motivation without knowledge can be counterproductive," says Chernev. "Promoting the consumption of healthy foods without providing a complete picture of the factors influencing weight gain might paradoxically facilitate calorie overconsumption, leading to weight gain rather than weight loss."

The study, "The Dieter's Paradox," appeared in the April 2011 issue of the Journal of Consumer Psychology.

MORE INFORMATION: To request the full study or to arrange an interview with Professor Alexander Chernev, contact Aaron Mays or Dawn McKenzie, APR at the contact information listed below.

For more information about the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, visit http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu.

Special Discounts This Month On Laser Skin Treatments

Four Convenient Locations: Paradise Valley, Ahwatukee, Chandler, and
Mesa

Derma Health Institute Specials For This Month!

• Get the Full 3D Treatment!
  Three Photofacials, three Laser Genesis, and three Titan Skin Tightening treatments for $300 off!


• Got Veins? Lose them quick with Laser Vein Removal. $100 Off a complete package three treatments.
  Click for more information on Laser Vein Removal.


• Eliminate Age Spots, Sun Damage and Spider Veins: Buy two Photofacials, get one FREE!. Click for more information on Photofacials.


• Grow Longer, Fuller Eyelashes: Latisse only $49 when you purchase any Titan Skin Tightening package.
  Click for more information on Latisse.


• FREE Vitamin B-12 Gift Certificate! Join our email list and receive a gift certificate for a free vitamin B-12 shot with any purchase. Not valid with any other offers. Click here sign up.
  

Save With Derma Health Institute Annual Packages

• Annual Juvederm Package: Minimum four syringes. $369 per syringe with a four syringe minimum . Click
  for more information on Juvederm


• Annual Botox Package: Minimum 100 units. $8.99 per unit. (nontransferable). Save $100! Click for more
  information on Botox


• Annual B12 Package: $15 B12 shots, 24 shot minimum. Save $119


• Annual Signature Microdermabrasion Package: 12 Microderms for $999! Includes face, neck & hands. Save $549! Click for more information on Microdermabrasions.
  
• Annual Express Microdermabrasion Package: 12 Micriderms for $599! Includes face only. Save $109!
  Click for more information on Microdermabrasions.

All specials not valid with any other offers. Expires November 30, 2010.

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Not sure which treatment is best for you?

Contact us today to schedule a FREE no-risk consultation and skin analysis. Let Derma Health Institute custom-design a package for your specific skin needs.

Before and After Pictures and Photos of Lipo-Vibe Tickle Liposuction

A More Advanced and Safer Choice in Liposuction Technology

Lipo-Vibe Custom Acoustic Liposuction is the newest and latest advancement in liposuction. Lipo-Vibe is an FDA approved, safe and effective way to eliminate unwanted stubborn areas of fat. Although new to the U.S., this technology has been successfully used in Europe for more than 12 years.

Unlike traditional liposuction that causes trauma to the surrounding tissue, the Lipo-Vibe gentle 3-D technology contours the body for dramatic results with little or no downtime -- and all under a local anesthetic. This state of the art procedure can be used on virtually any area of the body that is resistant to diet and exercise with fantastic results. As an added benefit, the energy used to break down fat also stimulates collagen and facilitates skin tightening.

To view Before and After photos and images of Lipo-Vibe Tickle Liposuction at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/article_info.php?articles_id=379

Survey: Americans Would Rather Give Up Sex Than Gain Weight

FORT WASHINGTON, Pa., Aug. 12 -- In spite of facing the deepest recession since the Great Depression and record unemployment rates, many Americans would pass up a work promotion to drop 10 to 20 pounds, according to the new Nutrisystem Diet Index™ issued today by Nutrisystem, Inc.®, a leading provider of weight management programs and services. Americans would also rather give up sex than gain weight, and they'd toss their cell phones and give up watching TV to have a toned tummy, according to the new findings. The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ is a new series of national consumer surveys tracking America's diet behaviors, attitudes and trends throughout the year. Each survey has a scale that measures America's current diet and lifestyle behavior and choices.

"The fact of the matter is, America is obsessed with dieting and weight loss, but the majority of Americans aren't eating healthier or getting thinner," said Joe Redling, chairman and CEO of Nutrisystem, Inc. "We've developed the Nutrisystem Diet Index™ to better understand America's attitudes toward dieting and to start a dialogue about healthy dieting and healthy lifestyle habits and trends."

The first Nutrisystem Diet Index™ revealed that Americans place a high value on being healthy, but they abandon the idea of achieving a healthier weight and lifestyle, because they ultimately feel their goals are too difficult to attain and maintain. The American lifestyle is also a factor. Inconveniences of work, giving up favorite foods, not having the time to plan ahead, cooking for a larger family and the cost of healthy foods are cited as some of the biggest barriers.

The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ revealed that Americans are clearly showing signs of struggle. According to the Index, Americans are at the midway mark on healthy diet and lifestyle choices, scoring a 5.1 on a ten point scale – with one being an "unhealthy diet and lifestyle" and ten being a "healthy diet and lifestyle" – when asked basic questions about their eating habits, diet behaviors and lifestyle choices.

The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ showed:

Only 35 percent of Americans fall into the "healthy lifestyle" category on the Index, by making healthy food and portion choices and by exercising regularly.
30 percent of Americans fall into the "unhealthy lifestyle" category and have dieted an average of 20 times in their life, using five different diet plans
35 percent of Americans have dieted an average of six times in their life, using two different diet plans

Nearly 1/3 of Americans (29 percent) have tried dieting over the past eleven months, and more than half of Americans (51 percent) have dieted within the past two years

For information about Weight Loss programs at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=15

Additionally, nearly a third of Americans confess to being self-conscious about their bodies and the Nutrisystem Diet Index™ reveals insight into Americans' attitudes about their health, appearance and lifestyle during the height of swimsuit season.

Additional findings from the survey include:

A majority of Americans (66 percent) who say they need to lose weight to feel sexier than they currently do, think it will take an average of 23 pounds of weight loss for this to happen
More than half (52 percent) of American women would take a summer without sex over gaining 10 pounds; a quarter of American men (25 percent) said they would make the same sacrifice
More Americans would prefer to shed 10 to 20 pounds this summer (25 percent) than get promoted at work (20 percent)
Almost three out of four Americans (73 percent) are willing to give up television, their cell phones or their computers for a flat tummy this beach season
Nearly half (46 percent) of the country chose not to diet, even when they knew they needed to lose weight, because they didn't want to give up their favorite foods
Almost all dieters (93 percent) find at least one aspect of their dieting plan to be challenging; the majority said they aren't able to control cravings (71 percent) and find portion size an obstacle to their success (64 percent)

"The Nutrisystem Diet Index found that many Americans are willing to make extreme sacrifices to lose weight, but they eventually give up on their goals because they don't know how to reach them. While there is an endless amount of health information available, there are still misperceptions and confusion about becoming healthier," said Dr. Bruce Daggy, nutritional biochemist and vice president of research and development, Nutrisystem, Inc. "This research helps shed light on some of the root causes of our nation's struggle to achieve a healthy diet and lifestyle."

The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ analyzed healthy diet and lifestyle behaviors and attitudes based on a telephone survey conducted by Kelton Research on behalf of Nutrisystem, Inc. The phone survey took place between April 10 and April 21, 2010 among 1,001 adults age 18 and over.

For more information on the Nutrisystem Diet Index ™, visit nutrisystemnews.com. To share what you’d be willing to give up to lose weight, go to Facebook.com/Nutrisystem.

SOURCE Nutrisystem, Inc.

For information about Weight Loss programs at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=15

Botox & Facial Fillers Most Popular Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatments

NEW YORK, Aug. 9 -- The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) is a world leader in plastic surgery. After a year-long process, the Society has produced the "ISAPS Biennial Global Survey™" of plastic surgeons and procedures in the top 25 countries and regions – representing 75% of all procedures in 2009. The ISAPS Survey marks the first time reliable international plastic surgery data has been obtained and analyzed by independent statistical specialists.

For more information about Botox and Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com

"This year marks the 40th anniversary of the founding of ISAPS," noted Foad Nahai, MD of the United States and current President of ISAPS. "The Society was founded at the United Nations by a group of concerned and proactive plastic surgeons. We could think of no better way of commemorating this important milestone than by commissioning and releasing this breakthrough Survey."

Geographic Trends

The ISAPS Global Survey revealed a new hierarchy of countries with the most surgical and non surgical cosmetic procedures. While the United States continues its dominance in the field, countries not always associated with plastic surgery are emerging as major centers.

Please note: fully detailed statistics are available for all categories mentioned in this release as well as complete methodology at: www.isaps.org

Most Popular Surgical and Non Surgical Procedures

For the last ten years, the consensus has been that breast augmentation was the most popular plastic surgery procedure. The ISAPS Global Survey reveals a new trend with liposuction representing 18.8% of all surgical procedures, followed by breast augmentation at 17%, and blepharoplasty (upper or lower eyelid lift) at 13.5%, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) at 9.4% and abdominoplasty ("Tummy Tuck") at 7.3%.

The popularity of surgical procedures varied by country with Brazil, the United States, China, Mexico, India and Japan the dominant countries for the top five procedures.

Reflecting both advances in cosmetic surgery innovation and the desirability of less expensive treatments, the number of non surgical procedures performed by plastic surgeons actually topped surgical procedures. While there is no previous baseline of information against which to compare these figures, there can be no doubt that this is a dramatic turn of events.

The top five non surgical procedures are: toxins or neuromodulators injections (Botox, Dysport) (32.7%), hyaluronic acid injections (20.1%), laser hair removal (13.1%), autologous fat injections (taking a patient's fat from one location and transferring it in the same patient in another location) (5.9%) and IP Laser treatment (4.4%).

The countries where non surgical procedures were performed were dominated by the United States, Brazil, Mexico and China and to a lesser extent by Japan, Hungary, South Korea, India and Germany.

Grand Totals – Finally a Credible Baseline

The ISAPS Global Survey also establishes several important statistics with regard to the total number of board certified (or national equivalent) plastic surgeons practicing today; estimated to be 30,817. The total number of surgical procedures is projected to be 8,536,379 and the number of non surgical procedures is estimated at 8,759,187 – bringing the combined worldwide total of surgical and non surgical procedures performed by board certified plastic surgeons to: 17,295,557. (This figure does not take into account surgical and non surgical procedures performed by non plastic surgeons.)

Dr. Jan Poell of Switzerland, the incoming President of ISAPS, observed that, "The statistics revealed from the ISAPS Global Survey represent the first credible and reliable baseline of information in the field. This is valuable information that will be used by medical professionals and media as an indispensable tool for calculating developments within our specialty and general trends, long before governments or industry have amassed this data."

Methodology

"Calculating plastic surgery surgical and non surgical procedures throughout the world was a complex and challenging initiative," noted Dr. Sampaio Goes of Brazil, an ISAPS Past President and Chairman of the ISAPS Communication Committee which oversaw this Survey. "We chose a respected survey company with extensive experience in plastic surgery, and the results they produced are credible, scientifically significant and will influence the profession for years to come."

The ISAPS Biennial Global Survey was compiled, tabulated, and analyzed by Industry Insights, Inc. (www.industryinsights.com) an independent research firm based in Columbus, Ohio in the United States. The Survey leader was Scott Hackworth, a Certified Public Accountant who along with firm has conducted various forms of research on trends in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery for nearly 15 years.

Participants in the Survey completed a two-page, English-based questionnaire that focused on the number of surgical and non-surgical procedures they performed in 2009. ISAPS issued an invitation to participate in the study to approximately 20,000 Plastic Surgeons whose contact information is housed in ISAPS proprietary database. In addition, a request was made that all National Societies encourage their members to take part in the survey.

Final figures have been projected to reflect international statistics and are based exclusively on the estimated number of Plastic Surgeons in each country. To aid in tallying the world-wide number of plastic surgeons, representatives from National Societies provided the counts for over 75% of the 31,000 total estimated plastic surgeons.

Though the confidence intervals change by procedure and by country - depending on the sample size and response variance of each - the overall survey portion of this research holds a standard error of +/- 4.24% at a 95% level of confidence.

ISAPS 2010 Congress: This Survey is released to coincide with the 20th Biennial Congress of ISAPS to be held on August 14-18 in San Francisco, California, United States. For more information about the Congress or to obtain credentials and/or follow up information contact: credentials@conmx.net

SOURCE International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)

For more information about Botox and Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com

The Two Most Common Skin Conditions in Asians: Acne and Malasma

CHICAGO, Aug. 5 -- The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that the Asian-American population will total 40 million people by 2050. While as a whole this group is characterized by very dark hair and dark eyes, there is much diversity in Asian skin tones – from very light, pale skin to light or dark brown skin. One common thread is the pigmentation issues that Asian Americans often face as after-effects of other dermatologic problems that can be as troublesome as the original condition itself.

For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
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At the American Academy of Dermatology's Summer Academy Meeting 2010 in Chicago, dermatologist Roopal V. Kundu, MD, FAAD, assistant professor and director of the Center for Ethnic Skin in the department of dermatology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, discussed two of the most common skin conditions in Asians and how treatment also involves addressing the ensuing pigmentation problems.

"The standards of beauty for Asian skin differ by region, but smooth skin and a flawless complexion are highly desired for most Asians," said Dr. Kundu. "That is why treating the initial concern as well as any pigmentation problems that may occur as the result of the treatment are so important."

Clearing Acne Step by Step

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that affects Asians, and Dr. Kundu explained that this population tends to experience inflammatory acne. By its very nature, Asian skin has an increased amount of melanin (the pigment in skin), and the cells that make melanin tend to be more sensitive to any type of inflammation or injury. Because Asian skin becomes more inflamed with deeper acne pustules and papules, patients are often left with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which refers to increased pigmentation or dark spots at the sites of inflammation.

"In my practice, Asian acne patients often are much more concerned with the after-effects of acne and how their skin may be affected by the resulting discoloration or scarring rather than the acne itself," said Dr. Kundu. "However, the first goal of any successful treatment regimen is to control the acne with topical and/or systemic medications depending on the severity of the acne."

In conjunction with medications she prescribes to clear acne, Dr. Kundu also recommends medications or over-the-counter products to even out the tone of Asian skin – which can help reduce the incidence of PIH. One such product that Dr. Kundu finds very effective in protecting Asian skin from uneven skin tone is sunscreen.

"Many of my Asian patients do not realize how important regular sun protection is to prevent the signs of aging skin, including preserving skin tone and helping minimize pigmentation problems from acne," said Dr. Kundu. "Minimizing intense sun exposure, wearing sun protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats, along with applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 is a must for treating Asian skin for this reason."

Another important component of treating acne in this population is exfoliation. Dr. Kundu often recommends glycolic acid, salicylic acid or topical retinoids to her patients to remove the surface skin cells and improve both acne and hyperpigmentation. Once acne is under control, the second goal is to address the resulting pigmentation problems. Dr. Kundu typically recommends bleaching agents, such as hydroquinone (considered the gold standard for bleaching), as well as chemical peels and cosmeceuticals. However, she cautioned that patients should be careful about where they purchase bleaching creams. Some establishments have been cited for selling products that contain too high levels of hydroquinone and even tested positive for toxic levels of mercury.

"It is very important for all patients to talk to their dermatologist before trying any at-home treatments designed to improve their skin tone, as some products can do more harm than good," advised Dr. Kundu. "Your dermatologist can recommend proven therapies and preventive care to keep your skin healthy and looking its best, even when you are experiencing a skin condition like acne."

Unmasking the Mystery of Melasma

Another common skin condition in Asians that can impact the appearance of the skin is melasma. Often referred to as the "mask of pregnancy," melasma is characterized by brown patches commonly on the cheeks, upper lip, nose and forehead. While the exact cause of melasma is unknown, it is thought to result from a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, as well as UV exposure. Dr. Kundu reported that melasma is more common in women and in Hispanics and Asians.

Treatments for melasma include similar therapies used to treat pigmentation problems resulting from acne, such as bleaching agents, hydroquinone, topical retinoids and chemical peels. In addition, certain laser and light therapies have been shown to be safe and effective in Asians.

Dr. Kundu reported that fractionated lasers and intense-pulsed light (IPL) therapies can be performed safely in Asians, but cautioned that these procedures need to be administered carefully by dermatologists.

"In some cases, laser and light procedures can worsen melasma if they destroy pigment cells – which leave white spots in the treated areas," said Dr. Kundu. "But they can be safe and effective in treating melasma, so patients need to discuss these procedures with their dermatologist to make sure they are good candidates first."

As is recommended in treating acne in Asian patients, Dr. Kundu added that avoiding the sun and using sunscreen daily are essential in the treatment of melasma and also in limiting potential side effects of laser and light treatments.

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Cultural Practices Can Spell Trouble for the Skin

Many of the deep-rooted cultural practices in Asian populations are still evident today, and Dr. Kundu noted that some can pose skin problems that need to be addressed by a dermatologist.

For example, cupping and moxibustion are two ancient healing techniques that complement acupuncture therapy by the use of heat to stimulate circulation. However, Dr. Kundu reported that people who regularly practice cupping and moxibustion can get bruising or scarring that sometimes require dermatologic care to minimize PIH. Similarly, the practice of coin rubbing – which involves using oils on the skin and repetitive rubbing of coins firmly over the area to promote healing – can create deep abrasions and bruising that may need medical attention.

Another common cultural practice among certain Asian cultures is the application of black henna tattoos. These popular tattoos could contain high concentrations of a chemical known as para-phenylenediamine, or PPD, used to create longer-lasting black henna tattoos. However, Dr. Kundu explained that PPD is an allergen that could cause allergic contact dermatitis, with symptoms ranging from mild eczema to blistering and scarring.

"While people of Asian descent may be more prone to pigmentation problems resulting from dermatologic conditions or from cultural practices, there are many ways that dermatologists can help patients maintain good skin health and minimize potential skin problems," said Dr. Kundu

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.

SOURCE American Academy of Dermatology

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Survey: Life with Food Allergies and Sensitivities

NEW YORK, July 21 -- Food Content Alerts (http://www.foodcontentalerts.com), the world's first interactive food management tool, announced the results of the global survey "Life with Food Allergies and Sensitivities." More than 1,000 survey respondents from anglophone countries U.S., U.K., Canada, New Zealand, and Australia opted into the survey online. The only qualification for participation was that they or someone in their household suffer from a food allergy or sensitivity.

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Food allergies and sensitivities are a serious and growing problem in developed countries. Experts estimate that as many as 60 million people in the U.S. are affected, either with a personal condition or through a family member, and that this number is increasing every year. The FCA site was launched last October following extensive research and development, and already has considerable Web traffic, users, and social media presence.

"With a critical mass of members and visitors to the site, we thought it was time to learn more about the people who use our tool. As one of the principles of FCA is sharing knowledge, our intention was to share the findings and, in doing so, raise awareness of this important issue," said Rich Muhlstock, the founder and manager of the site, which was created by TAXI NYC. "Even with all the information available on the Internet, we found that most respondents did not have a single Web destination to search for safe foods."

The results also showed that food allergies and sensitivities often affect more than one person in a household, with 45% of respondents having two or more allergy sufferers in a single household, while 20% have three or more sufferers. The survey confirmed that the condition has a huge emotional and logistical impact on family life. Sixty-six percent of respondents claimed that life with food sensitivities was difficult, compared with only 10% that found it easy to deal with.

The range of allergens and sensitivities mentioned by respondents was very surprising, according to Caroline Krediet, Planning Director, TAXI NYC. "While we saw large groups suffering from lactose and gluten allergies, 40% of respondents claimed sensitivity to foods not on the typical list of the most common allergies. This indicates that as the number of sufferers grows, so too does the list of food agents that affect them. We were surprised to see beef and corn as allergens mentioned by several hundred respondents."

Feedback on shopping behaviors was also interesting, with 87% of respondents relying on memory alone to select safe foods. "Surely this must be limiting to the repertoire of foods they can include in their diet. We hope this is something FCA can help address," says Muhlstock. Only a small minority of respondents believed that food companies did a good job labeling their foods. Sixty percent saw their current practices as inadequate.

Some bright spots for retailers and brands: Whole Foods was the clear winner in terms of favorite stores for allergy-free foods, with Trader Joe's not far behind. In terms of top "safe food" brands purchased by respondents, Bob's Red Mill, Enjoy Life, and Amy's were each mentioned by 10% of respondents. In the top 20 most frequently mentioned brands, General Mills led the pack, followed by Kraft and Kellogg's.

The survey was fielded from June 1-21, 2010. Respondents were 89% female, with 69% falling between the ages of 25 and 49. More information and detailed results are available at http://www.foodcontentalerts.com.

About FoodContentAlerts.com

FoodContentAlerts.com is a free online and mobile application that helps consumers with food sensitivities to manage their personal data. The site lets users organize a world of fragmented information via the creation of a personal sensitivity profile, which allows users to search for recipes, build personalized shopping lists, and more. FoodContentAlerts.com can also be accessed on the go via a mobile application. The site and app will revolutionize the way consumers navigate the world of food sensitivities and provide a unique targeted environment for advertisers. TAXI, New York (http://www.taxi-nyc.com), conceived of and developed the site. The site was built in partnership with Stem Limited (http://www.stemlimited.com).

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Popularity of Cosmetic Surgery Growing Among Minorities

CHICAGO, July 26 -- In a survey released today by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, more than half of respondents said they think the popularity of cosmetic surgery has grown among members of their racial/ethnic group in the last five years.

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Among racial/ethnic groups, Asians reported that cosmetic surgery is most popular (31.4 percent of respondents). They were followed by Hispanics (27.4 percent) and African Americans (18.8 percent) in cosmetic surgery popularity. About one quarter of respondents surveyed indicated they knew someone of the same racial/ethnic background who has gotten cosmetic surgery.

"Cosmetic surgery is en vogue no matter who you are," said Mark Berman, MD, President of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. "Feeling better about yourself and making improvements to your looks is thankfully not limited to a specific race or culture."

For invasive cosmetic surgery procedures, the most common surgery for Asian respondents is a facelift. Among black respondents, the top procedure is liposuction. And for Hispanic respondents, the most popular procedure is abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).

More than 30 percent of respondents said they would seek out a cosmetic surgeon of the same race/ethnicity as themselves. And over half of respondents (56.6 percent) said it would be difficult to find a surgeon of the same race/ethnicity as themselves.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery is a professional medical society whose members are dedicated to patient safety and physician education in cosmetic surgery. Most members of the AACS are dermatologic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons, head and neck surgeons, general surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons – all of whom specialize in cosmetic surgery. AACS is an organization that represents all cosmetic surgeons in the American Medical Association through its seat in the AMA House of Delegates.

SOURCE American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery

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Think Before You Ink: Poll Shows Opposite Sex Prefers No Tattoos

While Angelina Jolie may boast yet another tattoo, a new survey shows 47 percent of men find tattoos on women to be a turn off. The same Ask Jeeves survey also reveals as many as 38 percent of women feel the same way about men with tattoos. The FDA estimates that 45 million Americans have at least one tattoo and an estimated 50 percent of individuals with tattoos, eventually grow dissatisfied and want them removed.

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Nearly a third of young adults now sport at least one tattoo, but more than one in four of them regret having it done, according to new research.

A fifth (20 per cent) of all adults have a permanent tattoo, but this rises to a staggering 29 per cent of both men and women aged 16-44 years-old, the research revealed.

But while the marking does not fade, the enthusiasm clearly does, as 23 per cent admit it is something they now regret, said the survey based on questions answered by the question and answer website Ask Jeeves.

It includes many users asking about laser and other removal techniques - Ask Jeeves said it was one of the most popular subjects for questions in recent years.

Tattoos are becoming increasingly trendy and 86 per cent agree they are becoming more commonplace, though not everyone approves.

One in three people (34 per cent) say tattoos look awful and 21 per cent think it is okay to have a tattoo as long as it is not on display.

Only nine per cent of those aged 60 and over have one, but 16 per cent of those aged 30-44 have at least two, the survey of 1,000 adults shows.

Celtic motifs or someone's name are seen as the most popular these days, said the Ask Jeeves research.

Attitudes vary among age groups, though not by as much as some may think. Asked about David Beckham's so-called tattoo 'sleeves' covering his arms, 93 per cent of the over-60s think he's gone too far, and so too do 74 per cent of the under-30s.

Almost half of all men - 47 per cent - think tattoos on a woman are a turn off but only 38 per cent of women think the same about the markings on a male body.

While inked-up celebrities from Cheryl Tweedy to Amy Winehouse have helped increase the popularity of tattoos, there seem to be good and bad role models.
According to the Ask Jeeves survey, 55 per cent of all adults think Amy Winehouse looks worse for her collection of tattoos but only 17 per cent think it detracts from Megan Fox.

Nadia Kelly of Ask Jeeves said: "We have noticed an increasing number of our users asking Jeeves about tattoo removal services and asking about the various ways to get rid of them.

"Tattoos are obviously more popular than ever and we get enquiries about the latest designs or to look at those sported by celebrities.
"But it does suggest that this is one of the things that seems like a great idea at first but which many come to regret when they grow older."

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BOTOX Approved in UK For Treating Chronic Migraine Headaches

MARLOW, United Kingdom, Jul 09, 2010 -- BOTOX(R) has been licensed by the MHRA in the UK for the prophylaxis of headaches in adults who have chronic migraine (headaches on at least 15 days per month of which at least 8 days are with migraine)1. This is the first licence worldwide of BOTOX(R) for this indication, and is also the first prophylactic (preventative) treatment to receive a specific licence for patients with chronic migraine.

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Chronic migraine can be a costly and disabling disorder that can have a devastating impact on the lives of an estimated 700,000 people in the UK suffering from the condition2, as well as their families. Patients suffering from chronic migraine are more likely to visit Accident and Emergency (A&E), general practitioners (GPs) or speciality care physicians than patients with less frequent episodes of migraine. However, although distinct from other types of migraine, approximately 80% of chronic migraine patients may not actually be diagnosed.3 Historically, treatment for chronic migraine has consisted of a combination of over-the-counter and prescription treatments such as triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, B-blockers and anti-epileptics.

"There is an unmet need for effective and well-tolerated therapies specifically designed and studied for the prophylaxis of headache in chronic migraine" said Scott Whitcup, M.D., Allergan's Executive Vice President, Research and Development and Chief Scientific Officer. "The authorisation of BOTOX(R) marks an evolution in medical care for the prevention of headache in adults with chronic migraine. It is also a significant milestone in the history of BOTOX(R) and Allergan is proud to advance novel treatments in the field of neurology through our neurosciences research programme."

PREEMPT: the largest clinical trial programme in chronic migraine

The PREEMPT (Phase III REsearch Evaluating Migraine Prophylaxis Therapy) programme evaluated the safety profile and efficacy of BOTOX(R) as a prophylactic (preventative) headache treatment in chronic migraine patients.3 PREEMPT4 is the largest clinical programme in chronic migraine and consists of two phase III clinical trials involving 1,384 adults. Patients were eligible for the study if they had a history of migraine and experienced 15 or more headache days of which at least 50% were migraine or probable migraine during the 28 day baseline period. In a pooled assessment, two thirds of the patients had previously been treated with at least one other headache prophylactic medication and nearly two thirds of the patients were overusing acute medications. During the 28-day baseline period, patients reported suffering from an average of 19.9 headache days (headache for 4 or more hours in any calendar day), of which an average of 19.1 were migraine/probable migraine days (migraine headache on 4 or more hours in any calendar day).

At the end of the 28 day baseline period, patients were randomised to receive either 155 - 195 units of BOTOX(R) administered as 31 injections (155 units) into 7 specific head and neck muscle with an additional up to 8 injections (up to 40 units) into 3 of these muscles that could be administered in a 'follow the pain' strategy, or placebo. Patients received 2 injection cycles in a 24 week double-blind phase and then 3 injection cycles in a 32 week open label phase.

•At baseline, patients in the BOTOX(R) treatment group had an average of 19.1 days with migraine. Patients in the placebo treated group had an average of 18.9 days with migraine. By week 24 following treatment, BOTOX(R) treated patients averaged 8.2 fewer migraine days, which was significantly greater than the change from baseline observed in placebo treated patients (6.2 days),

Patients treated with BOTOX(R) experienced significantly fewer headache days compared to those patients treated with placebo (47.1% of BOTOX(R) treated patients compared to 35.1% of placebo treated patients achieved greater-than or equal to 50% reduction from baseline in the number of headache days at the week 24 primary timepoint.
Following the open label phase of the trial (week 56), nearly 70% of BOTOX(R) treated patients experienced greater-than or equal to 50% reduction from baseline in migraine days
Patients treated with BOTOX(R) had significant improvement from baseline in their quality of life scores (MSQ scores) and in the amount of headache related disability (HIT6 scores) compared with those on placebo, indicating significant improvement in patients functioning, vitality, psychological distress, and overall quality of life
Throughout the PREEMPT trials including the open label phase, patients received up to 5 courses of treatment with BOTOX(R) every 12 weeks. Most adverse events reported in the trials were mild to moderate and resolved without further problems. The treatment was generally well tolerated and the discontinuation rate was low in both treatment arms; 3.8% in the BOTOX(R) treated arm and 1.2% in the placebo.

"This is an important step forward in the management of chronic migraine and will hopefully bring additional recognition to this potentially disabling condition," said Professor Peter Goadsby of the UCL- Institute of Neurology, London and University of California, San Francisco . "BOTOX(R) treatment has been shown to reduce the frequency of headache/migraine, which can bring important benefits for patients. Patients with frequent, chronic migraine, have long required evidence-based approaches and this announcement offers them a new option, providing a real advance for patients often significantly impacted by their condition."

Patients who may be suffering from chronic migraine should seek medical advice from neurologists or headache specialists to ensure proper diagnosis and care. Wendy Thomas, Chief Executive of The Migraine Trust says, "Chronic migraine is currently an under-researched, under-diagnosed and under-treated condition. We know that treatment with acute pain medication does not always work for these patients so we welcome new therapies, especially preventative medication, for this potentially disabling condition." Lee Tomkins, Director at Migraine Action comments, "It is important that patients seek a referral to a specialist for help with chronic migraine as the condition is so often associated with depression and other medical co-morbidities. Within the UK, there are headache clinics offering specialist assistance and support to people with chronic migraine."

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Menopause Can Interfere With Women's Sexual Satisfaction

HOLLAND, Mich., June 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life. We expect to go through it sooner or later. Preferably later. But for roughly 25 percent of women, menopause arrives early, and with it comes hormonal shifts that can affect sexual drive and functioning.

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Knowing what to expect and having access to clinically sound information from expert sources like Menopause.org, sponsored by the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), and MiddlesexMD.com, a sexual health website founded by menopause care specialist Dr. Barb DePree, can help menopausal women maintain their sexual well-being.

Causes of Premature Menopause

NAMS defines premature menopause as "menopause that occurs at or before age 40. It can be genetic, or it can be induced via a medical intervention that removes or damages the ovaries, resulting in the abrupt loss of ovarian hormones such as estrogen."

Most cases of surgically induced menopause are caused when both ovaries are removed in a procedure called an oophorectomy or when a hysterectomy includes removing the ovaries or cutting off the blood supply to the ovaries.

"Removing both ovaries brings on immediate menopause, so it's important to talk to your doctor about both the reasons for the surgery and the possible outcomes," urges Dr. DePree. "Surgical menopause is not reversible. It's important to have a good understanding of what you will face after the surgery."

Medical Menopause

Certain medical procedures such as chemotherapy and pelvic radiation therapy can also cause menopause by damaging the ovaries. However, notes Dr. DePree, not all premenopausal women undergoing these procedures will experience induced menopause.

"In cases where ovarian functioning has been damaged by medication or radiation, the impact on fertility is unpredictable. You still have to protect against unplanned pregnancy during this transitional time," explains Dr. DePree. "Also, even if the ovaries stop producing hormones, that change may not be permanent."

Sexual Function and Premature Menopause

So what happens when levels of estrogen fall?

According to NAMS, women going through induced menopause experience an abrupt decrease in hormone levels. This may have a more negative effect on sexual function than the more gradual changes of natural (spontaneous) menopause.

"Although each individual is different, for most women the loss of ovarian hormones leads to diminished sexual drive and a changed experience," Dr. DePree points out. "In addition, changes in the vagina and vulva can create discomfort or even pain."

With little or no estrogen, vaginal walls become thin, dry and less elastic, causing pain during penetration.
Vaginal secretions lessen, resulting in decreased lubrication.
Blood flow to the genital area is reduced, making it more difficult to become aroused.
Understanding these issues, making adjustments, and knowing where to find help can alleviate anxiety, improve sexual satisfaction, and enhance intimacy.

"Unfortunately," says Dr. DePree, "it is difficult to get reliable, clinically sound information about our sexuality as we age. I founded MiddlesexMD to make it easier for women to understand both the changes to their sex lives and their options for remaining sexually active."

A Recipe for Maintaining Sexual Well-Being

MiddlesexMD is organized around a "recipe" for sexual health that synthesizes the latest and best advice of physicians, researchers and therapists into five central elements. Each element provides a factual guide to the physiological changes that come with menopause and explains different actions to accommodate those changes.

"By having a thorough understanding of these normal changes and how to compensate for them, midlife women can keep their bodies and minds in shape for continued sexuality through menopause and beyond," says Dr. DePree. "The intimacy that is created strengthens our primary relationship, so we can live longer and happier lives."

Here is Dr. DePree's "recipe" for sexual health excerpted from MiddlesexMD:

1. Knowledge

Midlife women need to know the physiology of menopause, so they can understand what is happening when it happens. Although each woman's experiences are unique to her, none of us is alone. And each of us needs to learn some new approaches to keep sex enjoyable as we age.

2. Vaginal Comfort

Midlife women need to learn how to take care of their vulvo-vaginal tissues so that sex remains comfortable.

3. Genital Sensation

Midlife women need to understand how to compensate for less blood flow and less sensitivity in their genital tissues and create sufficient sexual sensation.

4. Pelvic Tone

Midlife women need to learn how and why to strengthen and maintain their pelvic girdle to encourage circulation and maintain or strengthen their orgasms.

5. Emotional Intimacy

Midlife women need what every woman needs at every age for sex to be good. Sex needs to be intimate. Enjoying sexuality as we age helps us create and reinforce real connection.

About Dr, Barb DePree and MiddlesexMD

Barb DePree, MD, is a women's health provider in West Michigan, specializing in menopause care. She founded MiddlesexMD.com, a safe, comfortable website where women can learn how aging affects sexual health. MiddlesexMD.com offers clinically sound information, practical advice and intimacy aids that help women enjoy sexuality for life. MiddlesexMD is funded by private investors, many of whom are women over 40.

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Stubborn Pigmentation and Melasma Cleared Up With Melanage

Melanage is new treatment effective in removing melasma, the pregnancy masque, discoloration, age spots and sun damage.

07.06.2010 – Derma Health Institute in the Valley is now offering the Melanage Skin Brightening System, a new treatment effective in removing melasma, the pregnancy masque, discoloration, age spots and sun damage. These skin problems have plagued many women over the years with no clear skin solution until now.

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Ingredients in this breakthrough treatment include Vitamin A, a powerful skin exfoliator and arbutin, a natural skin lightener, which improves skin tone and texture, as well as lighten pigment on the skin. The beauty of this peel is that it is safe and very effective for darker skin types as well who, in the past, have not had the safety benefit of chemical peels that worked optimally for their skin.

The service costs $1200. This includes the peel treatment, two microdermabrasions, plus all post care products (sunscreen, hydroquinone lightener, and Vitamin A topical treatment.)

“Clients with aggressive melasma may need a touch up peel a few weeks later, but, this peel only needs to be performed approximately once a year, as it is very effective for getting rid of the stubborn pigmentation of the skin, said Dr. Karlee Heffner, Medical Director at Paradise Valley Derma Health Institute. “As long as clients are diligent in sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure, their post care products will be excellent adjunct therapy to suppress pigment. Downtime of peeling is approximately a week for most people.”

For more information, contact Derma Health Institute at (480) 539-0777 Mesa/Gilbert, (480) 730-9000 Chandler/Tempe, (480) 460-1505 Ahwatukee/Phoenix or (480) 991-7900 Paradise Valley/Scottsdale.

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7 Tips To Find A Good Laser Hair Removal Clinic

Unwanted hair can be very unsightly. Though it is possible to shave and wax off unwanted hair, a better option is laser hair removal. As there are so many people offering laser hair removal services, use these tips to find and choose the right and safe laser hair removal clinic.

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1. Find out what certification the laser technicians at the clinic have. They will be the ones removing hair from your body with a laser, and thus should know what they do.

2. Be wary of clinics that guarantee total hair removal as it is not possible to remove hair permanently with a laser. At the most, you will experience permanent hair reduction.

3. Find out how much of experience the clinic has with laser treatment. You wouldn't want your hair to be removed in a clinic that has helped only a few people or which may go out of business before you complete your hair removal sessions.

4. It is better to talk with the technician to find out if you are a good candidate for hair removal through lasers. People with light skin and dark hair are generally the best candidates. However the latest lasers work well on people with light hair and skin and dark hair and skin.

5. Consequently, find out what kind of laser the clinic uses. Most clinics use Intense Pulsed Light device. However it's better if the clinic uses LightSheer Diode Laser as it is good for light, medium and dark skin.

6. Find out if the clinic owns or rents the laser. Clinics that own a laser have a big commitment towards the laser, and you are assured that they will be around for some time.

7. If the technicians promise extremely good hair removal results, be wary of them as they may not be right for you.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Last but not least, if any of your friends or family members has undergone laser hair removal, find out how successful they were with it. Not only will they give you a recommendation, you can find out if there are any risks or side effects associated with the procedure.

Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/7-Tips-To-Find-A-Good-Laser-Hair-Removal-Clinic/1261341#ixzz0rVXbyxey


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The earliest signs of facial aging occur in our eyes, often beginning in the late twenties and early thirties. The earliest signs are fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, frown lines and crow's feet. Soon we begin to notice that our eyebrows have begun to sag and cover the upper eyelid.

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A high arched eyebrow is a classic sign of youthful beauty and alertness. As the eyebrow and forehead descend, a loose fold of skin begins to cover the upper eyelid and make our eyes look tired and old. Botox can help reverse and prevent many of these changes when started early in many people.

Advanced sagging often requires a surgical brow lift, not Botox. However, the early use of Botox can help prevent some of the forces which act to pull the forehead down and cause brow ptosis or sagging.

What Causes Sagging of the Forehead?

As our facial skin ages we lose collagen in the deep layers of the skin. Collagen supports our skin and helps keep the skin tight on our face. As we lose collagen the skin becomes lax and begins to sag.

However, our foreheads and eyebrows are also pulled downward by the action of the muscles around our eyes. When we frown, the frown muscles pull the skin down towards the base of our nose. These muscles the Procerus And Corrugator Muscles are called the frown muscles and contribute to brow ptosis.

In addition, the muscles on the side of our forehead around the eyes, also pull the forehead down when we smile or grimace. These muscles, called the Orbicularis Oculi Muscles cause crow's feet and ptosis or sag.

The combination of facial skin aging with loss of collagen and skin tone and the daily repeated pulling by the frown and crow's feet muscles together, over a lifetime can cause the eyebrow and forehead to sag down over the upper eyelid. This creates a tired older appearance to the face.

How Does the Botox Brow Lift Work?

Botox works by relaxing the muscles that are pulling the forehead down. When Botox is injected into the Procerus and Corrugator frown muscles, the muscles relax and quit pulling down on the forehead near the nose, and the forehead is allowed to elevate. The frown line is also lessened.

When Botox is injected into the upper, lateral or outside portion of the Orbicularis Oculi muscle, the upper crow's feet muscle, the muscle relaxes,stops pulling the outside portion of the foreheaqd down, and the forehead is allowed to elevate.

Two large muscles on the forehead, the Frontalis Muscles, hold and pull the forehead up. The frown and crow's feet muscles pull down against the action of the Frontalis Muscles. When the frown and crow's feet muscles are relaxed by Botox, the Frontalis Muscle can pull up on the forehead unopposed.

What Do Injections Feel Like?

Botox injections should be painless if they are done correctly. I apply a numbing cream to the skin before injection. I also cool the skin and underlying muscle by applying an ice pack or cold titanium roller to the skin before injection.

When these techniques are used, most patients do not even feel the injection.

Are Injections Safe?

Yes when used by an experienced and properly trained physician who is experienced in the use of this agent.

This medication is a safe, carefully prepared synthetic pharmaceutical grade product, and not food poisoning toxin as so often reported in the media.

Like any powerful medication, Botox must be given by an experienced licensed doctor or nurse under direct doctor's supervision.

I do my own injections because I believe technique is very important, and I believe the doctor must understand facial aesthetics and facial rejuvenation principals to achieve the best result possible.

Like any medication, this drug can be over used. However, I have never seen a patient lose their facial expression or look like a figure in a wax museum in my practice. Patients can still smile, show emotion and look normal after injection, they just do not have deep frown lines and crow's feet.

What Are Possible Complications?

Complications are very unusual in my experience. Temporary droop of the eyelid is the most frustrating, but recovery and return to normal takes 2-3 weeks. Lid droop can usually be avoided by proper injection technique.

Headache and flu like syndrome can also occur in some patients, but this is unusual, occurring in less than 2 % of patients.

Where Should I Go For Treatment?

You should consult a board certified physician who is experienced in facial aesthetics and facial rejuvenation procedures. Unfortunately many people assume that these injections are easy to do and many doctors and nurses with no formal training in facial aesthetics and facial rejuvenation procedures do these injections.

Your doctor needs to understand how the facial muscles work and what is causing the aging change that you want to correct. Technique is very important if you are going to achieve a good result.

Board certified Plastic Surgeons and Dermatologists are the most highly trained and expert doctors in these techniques. I suggest that you consult one of these board certified specialists. Personally I would avoid having these injections in a Spa, at a party, or by a non physician.

What Do Injections Cost?

These injections are priced according to the amount of Botox used, which is described in International Units (IU).

A typical treatment can use 25 to 50 IU's. I can usually do the forehead lift with 25 IU's. This can cost between $325-$500. You will likely pay more to have an experienced board certified expert do your treatment, but I believe you get what you pay for.

Prices vary from $13 to $20 per IU, depending on the number of areas treated and the number of units used. The more IU's used and the larger number of areas treated, the less the per unit charge.

Be wary of low priced injections. Some unscrupulous providers dilute the material and lower the price. If this happens to you your treatment will be less effective and will not last as long.

Ask your doctor how the dilution is done. There should be 2.5 IU's in each 0.1cc of solution, so a 1 cc syringe should contain 25 IU's.

Ask the questions and make sure you are getting what you pay for.

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

Lipo-Vibe Tickle Liposuction at Derma Health Institute of Arizona

Lipo-Vibe Custom Acoustic Liposuction is the newest and latest advancement in liposuction. It is an FDA approved, safe and effective way to quickly eliminate unwanted areas of stubborn fat. Although new to the U.S., this technology has been successfully used in Europe since 1999.

Unlike traditional liposuction that causes trauma to the surrounding tissue, the gentle 3-D technology contours the body for dramatic results with little or no downtime. This state of the art procedure can be used on virtually any area of the body that is resistant to diet and exercise – and the results are fantastic!

Before and After Photos About Dr. Gael L. DeRouin, D.O.

How is Lipo-Vibe Different?

Unlike traditional liposuction, Lipo-Vibe gives the doctor the ability to break up the fat before-hand with laser energy.

It is unique in that it utilizes air pressure to generate acoustic sound energy. Rather than the one-dimensional vibration of ultrasound, Lipo-Vibe generates a more effective three dimensional movement. The pattern of movement enables Lipo-Vibe to operate at lower infrasonic frequencies which are much safer than the high-frequency energy generated by a regular ultrasound.

"I have used many different types of liposuction throughout the years, from conventional liposuction to the current laser and ultrasound liposuction equipment. I am impressed that this new Lipo-Vibe can really get the job done and allows me to offer my patients additional safety and less discomfort.” - Dr. Gael DeRouin. D.O.

Lipo-Vibe can more easily and safely access areas of the body that are difficult to treat with older liposuction methods. Its unique vibration pattern allows for precise body sculpting with less trauma to the surrounding skin tissue. Overall, the patient experiences less swelling, less bruising and less overall discomfort. As an added benefit, the energy used to break down fat also stimulates collagen and facilitates skin tightening during the days following the procedure.

How is Lipo-Vibe Safer?

Unlike current liposuction techniques that utilize laser or ultrasound energy, the suction tube used in Lipo-Vibe stays cool, eliminating the risk of heat injury to tissue. Lipo-Vibe includes an automatic shut off when it approaches non-fatty tissue such as skin or muscle which protects the surrounding tissue from trauma. These safety features enable Lipo-Vibe to safely and more effectively remove deep and superficial fat, resulting in higher definition sculpting.

Since you don’t have to be “put under” during the procedure, you avoid all the dangers that go along with general anesthetics.

Lipo-Vibe offers all of the benefits of current liposuction technology without the inherent risks, discomfort, and downtime.

Who is a Candidate for Liposuction?

While almost anyone can benefit from liposuction, it is most effective at removing fat from localized pockets which have been resistant to dieting or exercise. In general, the ideal patient is one who is in good health, not obese, has an active lifestyle and has pockets of fat they wish to have removed.

How is the Procedure Performed?

Lipo-Vibe is an out-patient procedure done right in the Derma Health Institute office. The patient is awake during the entire procedure.

Prior to the procedure, the fatty areas are marked and a local anesthetic is infused underneath the skin to numb the area. The physician then inserts a hollow, pen-like instrument called a cannula just beneath the skin surface and energy is passed through it to break up the fat. Once the fat is liquefied, it is then easily removed with a suction tube.

For more information about Lipo-Vibe Tickle Liposuction at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=457

Natural Menopause Treatments Explained by Dr. Ershadi

LOS ANGELES, April 19 / -- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a synthetic menopause treatment method available to women suffering from symptoms of menopause. While this treatment is effective, it has been linked to serious diseases such as breast cancer. Because of that, many women have chosen not to risk their health with HRT treatments. The risks associated with HRT are simply too great for many women.

In the past, women have resigned themselves to suffering menopause symptoms because they feared the potentially harmful consequences associated with hormone replacement therapy. These women determined to live with hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, fatigue, memory loss, mood swings, and strained relationships in order to protect their health and wellness. However, by not treating menopause symptoms a woman is increasing her chances of developing cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. These diseases can further interfere with a woman's life. Decreased bone density can result in serious fractures if the woman falls and injures herself. Menopause should not be left untreated and allowed to run its damaging course.

Treating Menopause Naturally

There are natural cures for menopause that women ages 40 and over may want to consider using. These natural menopause remedies include things such as natural menopause supplements. These supplements are not only designed to help alleviate the symptoms of menopause like hot flashes and night sweats, but they also help women maintain bone and muscle mass as well as prevent osteoporosis. Products such as herbal supplements for menopause are a safe, effective, natural way to treat a range of menopause symptoms. Even though every woman will not experience the same degree or intensity of the various symptoms related to menopause, herbal menopause remedies may be appropriate for any woman suffering with menopause.

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

Rosacea Sufferers Perceived as Unhealthy, Insecure, Less Smart

BARRINGTON, Ill., April 14 /PRNewswire/ -- From job interviews to first dates, creating a positive and lasting first impression often goes a long way. For women with symptoms of the common skin condition rosacea, just how much does the appearance of their skin affect how people perceive them? A unique digital perception survey, developed in partnership with the National Rosacea Society (NRS) and Galderma Laboratories, contrasted images of women with signs of mild to moderate papular/pustular rosacea (an inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness, bumps and blemishes) and images of women with clear skin. The survey was taken by 1,009 members of the general population and 502 women with rosacea, equaling 1,511 survey respondents in total. In the survey, adults were asked to give their opinions of women based solely on photographs of their faces: half of the photographs featured the women with clear skin and half of the photographs were digitally enhanced to simulate rosacea symptoms on their faces. The survey found that based on first impressions of the images, when it comes to attributes such as confidence, attitude and intelligence, women with rosacea symptoms were consistently ranked differently than their clear-skinned counterparts.

For more infrmation about Rosacea Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=169

The results, which are part of the national educational campaign Rosacea SKINsights sponsored by Galderma Laboratories, also reveal the lengths that women with rosacea would go to if they could get rid of their rosacea forever, and highlight the low awareness and complicated diagnosis path for this common condition. On average, women with rosacea waited at least seven months before receiving a correct diagnosis, and only half of respondents had ever heard of the condition upon the time of diagnosis. This reveals the high level of misunderstanding and confusion that surrounds rosacea, a chronic disorder primarily of the facial skin, often characterized by flare-ups and remissions.

Rosacea's Impact on Health and Personality Traits

According to survey results, women with rosacea are more likely than women without the skin condition to be perceived by others among the general population as looking unhealthy (11% vs. 2%) and tired (43% vs. 32%). Survey respondents also formed personality judgments about women with pustular/papular rosacea, describing them as more likely to be insecure (33% vs. 13%) and shy (34% vs. 18%) than their counterparts. In contrast, women with clear skin were more commonly perceived as having positive social characteristics such as confidence (49% vs. 27%) and happiness (54% vs. 36%).

The appearance of rosacea also influenced survey respondents' perceptions of important personal characteristics that could negatively impact how rosacea sufferers are viewed in the workplace. Compared to women with clear skin, women with rosacea symptoms were considered to be less intelligent (36% vs. 43%) and not as successful (18% vs. 32%).Women with rosacea symptoms were also perceived to be more stressed (40% vs. 23%) and more likely to have entry level positions (22% vs. 11%).

Women with Rosacea Perceived as Less Lucky in Love

Career and personality traits were not the only perceived source of disparity between women with rosacea and those without – survey results show that Americans thought that women with rosacea were less lucky in love, including less likely to be in a relationship (64% vs. 81%) and less likely to go on weekend dates (14% vs. 22%).One in five women (19%) with rosacea surveyed would even rather have clear and smooth skin than an eternally fulfilling love life.

The Lengths Rosacea Sufferers Would Go To for Clear Skin

The women with rosacea who participated in the survey judged rosacea as the negative focal point of their faces. In order to achieve clear skin, women with rosacea said they would be willing to forgo wearing make-up (33%), exercising (22%) and watching television for one year (21%).They would also give up eating chocolate (44%) and dating (25%) for one year if that meant that they did not have to deal with their skin condition on a daily basis. Lastly, despite today's challenging economic environment, women with rosacea would pay an average of nearly $6,000 and 14 percent would reduce their income by 10 percent for five years, to have clear and smooth skin forever. Nine percent would choose clear skin over being financially well-off for life.

"The survey results confirm that rosacea can have a strong impact on people professionally, socially and romantically," said Samuel Huff, Executive Director of the National Rosacea Society. "The National Rosacea Society urges people to educate themselves about this widespread, yet often misunderstood disease, and encourages anyone who thinks they may have rosacea to see a dermatologist to receive a timely diagnosis and appropriate therapy."

"Unfortunately, many people with rosacea do not recognize the symptoms and often mistake their rosacea for another skin condition; therefore they are not taking advantage of the effective medical solutions that are available," said Dr. Doris Day, dermatologist and clinical assistant professor of Dermatology at the New York University Langone Medical Center. "Without proper treatment, rosacea flare-ups can progressively worsen so it is critical to visit a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Your skin's appearance can be a prominent factor in how you perceive yourself and how others perceive you, so it is very important that everyone takes control of their skin and puts their best face forward."

Rosacea Awareness Month Resources

The National Rosacea Society annually designates April as Rosacea Awareness Month to increase recognition of the signs and symptoms of rosacea and to help people understand that rosacea is a medical condition that can get progressively worse without treatment. People who suspect that they may have rosacea or those who would like to learn more about this common condition are encouraged to learn the facts on rosacea at www.rosaceafacts.com, which is a site dedicated to arming people with the facts on rosacea, including symptoms and triggers, and providing them with additional resources about the condition.

About Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic disorder primarily of the facial skin, often characterized by flare-ups and remissions. It typically begins any time after age 30 as a redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead that may come and go. Over time, the redness tends to become ruddier and more persistent, and visible blood vessels may appear. Bumps and pimples are a symptom, and in severe cases the nose may grow swollen and bumpy from excess tissue. Although rosacea can affect all segments of the population, individuals with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily are believed to be at greatest risk. While there is no cure for rosacea and the cause is unknown, medical therapy is available to manage its signs and symptoms. Individuals who suspect they may have rosacea are urged to see a dermatologist or other knowledgeable physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

About the National Rosacea Society

The National Rosacea Society (NRS) is the world's largest organization dedicated to improving the lives of the estimated 16 million Americans who suffer from this widespread but poorly understood disorder. Through education and advocacy, its mission is threefold: to raise awareness of rosacea, to provide public health information on the disorder, and to encourage and support medical research that may lead to improvements in its management, prevention and potential cure. Since 1992, the NRS has made a difference in the way rosacea patients are treated and the way this widespread disorder is perceived and understood. Information and materials are available on the society's Web site at www.rosacea.org.

About Galderma

Galderma, created in 1981 as a joint venture between Nestle and L'Oreal, is a fully-integrated specialty pharmaceutical company dedicated exclusively to the field of dermatology. The Company is committed to improving the health of skin with an extensive line of products across the world that treat a range of dermatological conditions. With a research and development center in Sophia Antipolis, France, Galderma has one of the largest R&D facilities dedicated exclusively to dermatology. Leading worldwide dermatology brands include Differin®, MetroGel® 1%/Rozex®, Clobex®, Tri-Luma®, Loceryl®, Vectical® Ointment, Epiduo™ Gel and Cetaphil®. For more information on Galderma, visit www.galdermausa.com.

About the National Rosacea First Impressions Survey

Kelton Research conducted two separate national online surveys, one with a sample of N=1,009 nationally representative adults age 18+ and one with a sample of N=502 women ages 18+ who had been diagnosed with rosacea. Both groups took the survey which was fielded between December 10th and December 28th, 2009. Quotas were set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of each audience. Each respondent answered questions about several pictures of people with or without rosacea. The overall margin of error for the general population in this study is +/-3.1 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. for the women with rosacea it is +/- 4.4 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. Margins for subgroups are slightly higher.

The survey was sponsored by Galderma Laboratories and developed in partnership with the National Rosacea Society.


SOURCE National Rosacea Society; Galderma Laboratories, L.P.