Neocutis to the Skin: 'I'm gonna need you to start the healing process, ok?'

I wanted to share a bit about my recent look into Neocutis Skin Care products, their technology,  and how their growth factor 'PSP' works. Here's the scoop.

Neocutis offers a number of products that feature technology that was developed by leading Swiss researchers out of the University Hospital of Lausanne, a leading international research facility. Their claim-to-fame/ proprietary ingredient is called PSP, which they have termed the "Cadillac of Peptides".

Here are some interesting facts about PSP and how it works:

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The Healing Power of Peptides

Inspired by the phenomenon of the scarless healing of fetal skin, medical researchers in Switzerland created a biotechnology process to obtain the super power proteins involved in wound healing from cultured fibroblasts.  A dedicated cell bank was established for developing new wound healing and burn treatments with these amazing proteins.  That same cell bank is the source of the fibroblasts that produce PSP, which is Neocutis' secret weapon. By the way, fibroblasts are the collagen producing cell found in skin.

PSP

PSP stands for Processed Skin Proteins. PSP is a mixture of Human Growth Factors, interleukins, and the other cytokines that were discovered by those Swiss scientist smarty-pants.

Ok, so it heals wounds (that's pretty cool). But what does it do for the skin's appearance?

Let's face it: aging skin is damaged.  No matter what you want to primarily blame for the inflammation, damaged/aged skin is basically wounded skin.  The free-radical damage (reactive oxidative species) that causes the wound (aging/ skin damage) is caused by stuff like

• glycation
• injuries to the skin
• pollution
• chronic skin conditions
• sun damage: the tanning bed you hit in high school, the baby oil/iodine days of the past, or even just daily daylight-exposure

The scientists found that even though the skin does not actually absorb the growth factors, they are proven to play what I like to think of as a game of 'telephone' with the skin when applied topically.  They are able to stimulate the healing process, actually acting to 'heal' the 'wound' of the aging/damaged skin.

The result is smoothed, brightened and firmed skin, all with no color or fragrance additives. Give it a try and see what you think! Check it out here: www.neocutis.com 

Until next time, stay fabulous, my friends!

Have you heard? HALO is the word!

Ok, I meant to post this a few weeks ago... time flies!! But I'm too excited about this technology to let this one sit in my 'drafts' folder any longer. Read on about our fabulous new laser technology! Have you heard of HALO?

Erickson Cosmetic Dermatology is the first in the nation to receive this awesome new laser resurfacing technology!

In a nutshell, it provides the results of an intense/major laser resurfacing, but without the downtime. I had one myself, and it was amazing! I will be posting more about it soon!

Check it out here:

http://www.ericksondermatology.com/new-halo-technology

And until next time, stay fabulous, my friends!

Treatments that are a Treat: Botox in the Bands, A.K.A. the 'Nefertiti Lift'

Here is a post I wrote for the office on one of our more popular treatments =) If you haven't tried it yet, get ready to be impressed!

Obagi Inservice today at Erickson Cosmetic Dermatology Chicago

Thanks, Laura (our fabulous Obagi rep/expert) We always LOVE hearing about the most current updates and developments in the skin care science realm!

Yours Truly,

The skin care pro's at Erickson Cosmetic Dermatology, Laser & MedSpa

=)

PS: we're crazy about the Gentle Rejuvenation products!

(For more on Obagi Gentle Rejuvenation, here's a link: http://obagi.com/patients/product-line/gentle-rejuvenation/results and here's a link to another post about the Gentle Rejuvenation Vitamin C fortified SPF (click to follow the link)!

E Experiments: The Light Sheer Laser

I had the honor of experimenting with the Lumenis Duet LightSheer Diode Laser this week at my office, Erickson Dermatology. This nifty laser has a handpiece that gently suctions the skin as the laser is engaged. This makes things less painful (I would say pain free, almost!) for the patient during laser hair removal/reduction treatments- total win. The spot size is humongous too, so treating a large area is a snap. Less stress on the practitioner, less stress on the patient: what's not to love?

Just thought I'd share what I'm up to! Until next time: Stay Fabulous, My friends!

Playing With MicroLaserPeel

Not too long ago, I had the opportunity to experiment with Sciton's Profractional Laser Technology, Sciton's BBL, and Sciton's MicroLaserPeel treatment. I was pretty excited about the versatility of the MicroLaserPeel. This  resurfacing laser treatment is fully customizable, and can fall anywhere in social downtime (ie, pinkness/sensitivity afterwards) between a REALLY effective microdermabrasion and a huge, intense laser treatment. Here's what can be treated with MicroLaserPeel:

• Wrinkles and Skin Texture

• Scars

• Keratosis

• Sun damage (including freckles)

• Pigment irregularities

Almost any skin areas can be treated, but the most popular treatment areas are the face, neck, chest and hands.

MicroLaserPeel (also sometimes called a NanoPeel, or a Weekend Peel) is an erbium laser treatment that removes a thin layer of damaged skin to improve texture and provide a more youthful appearance. It's pretty great because it can be administered with great precision of depth, like if you only have one afternoon for social-downtime. The procedure is performed in your physician’s office and is pretty great because it can be custom tailored to your specific skin concerns, and most importantly: How much time you have to spare for social downtime. That, and it can be combined with other laser procedures at the same visit to maximize your results.

The depth is measured in microns, so a 10 Micron laser Peel is much lighter than a 20, which would require some social downtime. Here's how you could look at it: A series of microdermabrasions (like maybe 6 treatments) can equal one treatment of a 10 micron MicroLaserPeel.

Here's a great video of a demonstration.You'll see the MicroLaserPeel’s beam being scanned over a treatment area to remove the very thin layer of the skin. As the skin heals, fresh cells grow and resurface the treated area. The result is healthier-looking skin, often with reduced wrinkles and improved tone. Patients often say that it looks like their skin went from looking 'tired' to fab.

 Here's the same day before and after pictures of my hand after (from top to bottom) a 4 Micron Peel, an 8 Micron Peel, and a 10 Micron Peel. (translation: Super-Light to Light)

I felt totally fine (no discomfort AT ALL), and the texture on my left hand actually looked and felt smoother and healthier than the right hand, almost right away.  I was surprised how audible the laser sound was, and how comfortable it was. I really didn't feel much at all! Can't wait to offer this treatment to our patients, I think they'll love it!

Until Next time: Stay fabulous My Friends!

Dermaplaning: Don't be Scared

Ever thought Dermaplaning looked scary-as-heck? You're not alone! What is it?? Also known as epidermal leveling, Dermaplaning is an expert technique which gently removes superficial, rough skin with the use of a modified surgical utensil (that's the nice way to say SCALPEL). This specialized treatment leaves the skin glowing and refreshed. Here's the secret: No, it doesn't hurt! AND, it's actually more gentle (and effective at removing superficial, dead/damaged tissue) than lots of other aesthetic treatments.

Here's me performing a dermaplane:

Who is it good for?  Dermaplaning is safe for almost all skin types. It's not so great for really active acne or for people with really thick hair growth on the face. It's actually a great alternative to microdermabrasion: much more gentle and much more effective at removing stratum corneum!!! Ok, people also love it because it removes peach-fuzz. For those of you who love that part, I mentioned it! Are you happy?? =)

DP treatments result in a more refined, smooth, “glowing” appearance.  Because Dermaplaning does not require the use of chemicals to exfoliate, it is often appropriate for those with certain skin allergies or sensitivities, even rosacea... no kidding!

What to Expect:  Dermaplaning is actually a no-downtime, gentle refinement. You might expect your at-home products to absorb more quickly than usual, and your makeup to go on more smoothly than usual.  (so use caution if you are using strong exfoliants or harsher products!) If it is determined to be appropriate for your skin, a mild chemical peel, cryogen therapy, or a masque treatment may be applied during your treatment. It's sort of like a choose-your-own adventure book. Remember those? If you do, you might look into dermaplaning for it's anti-aging benefits. (That was supposed to be funny!!)

Locally, I enjoy teaching other professionals to dermaplane. This comfortable treatment is a patient-favorite and a specialty of our office, and may be a specialty of an office near you soon!! =)

Until next time, stay fabulous my friends!

E

The Chicken, the Egg, and The Changing Aesthetic Landscape

As I write, I am here in San Francisco at the The Aesthetic Academy meetings.  Yesterday I took the Certified Aesthetic Consultant Exam and should have my results in 2-3 weeks. (Keep your finger crossed for me!) And now that the hard work is over, I can take a deep breath, sit back, and learn. A handful of the nation’s top aesthetic physicians are here presenting their favorite technologies for non-surgical rejuvenation, fat reduction and anti-aging. I'm noting a continuous theme with every. single. presentation.

The theme: the industry landscape is changing. For example: in 1997 (and maybe even 2007) a person might go to a doctor, have a surgery, and ride off into the sunset. These days, informed consumers are seeking more progressive solutions with little or no downtime. They have high expectations, plenty of options, and do lots of research.  They aren’t jumping into invasive surgeries. In fact, according to ASAPS, the surgical segment of our industry is only experiencing growth of 3% each year, whereas non-surgical procedures are growing over 10% each year. As I listen, I agree… as a Service Provider, a Practice Manager, and as a patient myself. People want procedures that are better, faster, and easier to recover from.

From my perspective, I see these savvy, well-informed patients demanding these advancements. And I also see (especially at the industry conferences) that the technology is getting better.  But I wonder: is the technology getting better because the market demands it? Or are people starting to access these treatments because the new, effective, non-invasive options are finally available? Which came first? The chicken or the egg?

Whichever scenario is happening, the technology is getting better. Science is looking to affect the skin/tissues on a molecular level. We are hearing more and more about changing 'the behavior' of the tissue. I even heard the phrase “reprogramming genes like software”.  Indeed, genes are kind of like little strings of data, not unlike software.  Heating, cooling, and using all types of energies to manipulate, denature, and contract are becoming the methods of choice for patients AND practitioners.  Very interesting.  So while plenty of facelifts are still happening, it sounds like the future of medicine is going 'molecular'.

Here are the buzz-worthy, popular topics for non-surgical and non-invasive technologies here at the show:

• Microneedling
• Diodes
• RF Devices (radiofrequency, now with less treatments)
• Enzymes, Stem Cells in Skin Care
• IPL, Photo Facial (oldie but a goodie)
• Circumferential Reduction, (Body Contouring and Fat Reduction)
• (Still trying for a great) Skin Tightening modality
• Cellulite Treatments (still nothing permanent, but looking good in the temporary-realm!)
• Micro-cannulas (for injecting soft tissue fillers like Juvederm)
• Voluma (the new filler from Allergan)

More to come from San Francisco!

In the meantime, Stay Fabulous, My Friends!

Alert, Alert!! New Obagi Medical Products System, available next week!!

My lovely Obagi representative just alerted me to a new Obagi Medical Products line, specifically designed for those in their 20's and 30's, but likely appropriate for anyone who may not want or need an Rx Tretinoin (or anything 'hardcore', per se). She didn't have any literature to send me yet, but referred me to the Youtube vid here... which, at the time that I viewed it, only had 63 views!! This is new, hot off the press!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjKvHbZAxf4

Obagi 360 features only 3 products: an exfoliating cleanser, a retinol .5 to use at night, and a hydrating broad-spectrum SPF. This line promises simplicity, gentle care, an emphasis on consistency and routine, and maintenance! Well done, Obagi... can't wait to hear more!!

Until next time, stay fabulous my friends!

New (super cute) Device Monitors Sun Exposure: We're now OFFICIALLY out of Excuses

Has anyone seen the June device yet? It's existence was just announced by Netatmo at the Consumer Electronics Show. It's a an electronic device that looks like a wrap bracelet... a somehow good-looking wrap bracelet! Amazingly, its actually a REALLY PRETTY bracelet, unlike my Fit Bit Force or my clunky and my obvious and chunky Body Bugg Arm Band!! Obviously I'm impressed with the styling here, but Ok- I'll get on with it:  This wearable device-in-disguise actually monitors your sun exposure.

With the June device, you can check in to see how you're doing on your UV exposure-levels from your smart phone. This way, you know what peak-times to stay in, when to re-apply SPF, and when to 'call it a day' after a daytime jaunt involving plenty of daylight exposure. With more than 2 million cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the US each year, I hope this little guy takes off! It's not released yet, but I'll be watching closely for its launch- can't wait to try it out!

Here is a video to watch on the topic:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5U-5rgbnNuE

Will you be wearing a June?? I think I will be!

Until next time, stay fabulous, my friends!

December Lumenis Symposium: Because Chicago could use a little light(-based technology) in the winter... amiright?

I was honored to be learning about Lumenis' latest cosmetic light-based technology from (and with) some of the brightest minds in our field at tonight's Chicago Lumenis Symposium. Lumenis has been well known for it's IPL devices over the years, but just a few months ago they received FDA approval for their ResurFX: The New Fractional Non-Ablative technology for skin resurfacing. What the heck does that mean, you ask?

A quick generalized answer here: Non-Ablative means that the surface of the skin stays intact, and fractionated means collagen remodeling by only treating a FRACTION of the skin at a time (aka, little-to-no-downtime). WOO-HOO!

Here I am with The Lumenis M22, (the R2-D2 looking unit which houses their famous ResurFX and IPL), alongside the well-known Aesthetic Consultant extraordinaire, Cindy Graf (aka, The Laser Queen!)

Before and After: My Obagi Transformation

I think the Spring season gets a lot of credit for renewal and transformation, but Fall is really when I (and clients/patients alike) really get in the mood for change. The summer can be a time when we drop off of our strict regimens and become a bit lax... with schedules, eating, bedtime, skin care, and who-knows-what else. In my opinion, there seems to be something about the changing colors, the crispy air, and the earlier nightfall that seems to make us all think: 'OK, these summer freckles are bothering me. Time for a change', or 'Hey!! I'm suddenly interested in regimented self-care again'. I myself jumped back onto full time Obagi use a couple of weeks ago, and I thought I would share my slightly embarrassing before and after pictures from my first time using the Obagi Nu Derm system. (about 7 or 8 years ago)

I had some issues, as you can see. It's especially tough to have skin trouble when you are a professional aesthetician. After all, how are you supposed to recommend treatments and products for your practice's patients when your own skin is terrible??

Notice the acne, the post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (red spots left-over from acne), melasma (patchy-brown above my lip and on my forehead), freckles, and uneven tone.

I used the Nu Derm system with tretinoin .1% (hardcore!!) religiously for 18 weeks, followed by a maintenance regimen. What a life-changing transformation this was for me! I am so thankful for this line, and have many, many happy clients who would agree.

So if you are in the mood for change yourself, join me in fall transformation! Start using that night-time product instead of falling asleep on the couch at night, jump into that Zumba class, or finally organize your closet by color; whatever blows your hair back! :)

Check out Obagi Medical's website here to learn more about nu derm, and until next time: Stay Fabulous My Friends!

Chicago's Most Recent Solta Medical Laser Symposium... where technology meets fabulocity.

Last week, Chicago Physicians and Clinicians attended Solta Medical's most recent Laser Symposium, where we learned about the most recent advancements in Liposonix fat-reduction (reduction of subcutaneous adipose tissue) via HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound), Fraxel re:pair (treatment of wrinkles, furrows, pigmented lesions, vascular dyschromia) Thermage (classic non-invasive treatment of wrinkles) Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 (sun spots age spots, AK's, melasma, peri-orbital wrinkles and scars) Clear + Brilliant (general skin resurfacing) and Isolaz (acne). WHEW!

Needless to say, there was plenty to absorb... and I had a cramp in my hand from taking notes even before the main course was served. I think with all the constant advancements in technology (especially in our industry), no matter WHAT your role is in your office: we are ALL always learning and growing!

It was an honor to be there, learning alongside some of Chicago's greatest!

Until next time, Stay Fabulous My Friends!

Va, Va VOLUMA

So excited! ...Where do I start?? Ok, I'll start here: Yesterday, Allergan (makers of BOTOX Cosmetic) announced that they have FDA approval for the first filler specifically formulated for the cheeks. Our new friend's name is  JUVÉDERM® VOLUMA™. This new glorious Hyaluronic Acid (HA) filler is made with Allergan's proprietary VYCROSS(TM) technology. VYCROSS (TM) is a manufacturing method **cross-linking** that makes this HA super-duper smooth and long-lasting.

Another cool fact: Voluma is like the can't-stop, won't-stop, marathon-runner of HA fillers: it can last for 2 years with optimal treatment... which is much longer than others.

By the way, did you know that HA is a sugar that naturally occurs in the skin? SWEET!

Here's a link to Allergan's Voluma Page, and here's one to the Press Release.

You can also click here to see one of my posts about volume restoration in the aging face. 

Oh, and this filler product comes with pre-mixed with Lidocaine (numbing agent). ..........OR without, if you are crazy like that. (kidding... totally kidding!)

Remember to always talk to your doctor about your candidacy for treatments and give your doc the most updated health history info every time you see them.

Until next time, stay fabulous my friends!

Product Review: Tensage Radiance Eye Cream SCA 10

Word on the Street/Company Claims: Cryptomphalus Aspersa, a type of snail which has evolved to heal itself with it's own secreted Glycoproteins and growth factors, is the source for this concentrated anti-aging eye cream. SCA is used both for post-procedure (when you REALLY have to kick up the healing process) and to heal sun-damaged or aged skin in a daily home-care regimen. This particular product is a light/medium consistency slightly-tinted eye cream.

Biopelle's Website says this product:

• is tinted for a more even skin tone
• contains antioxidant and growth factor properties
• delivers a firming and tightening effect
• continuously hydrates the area around the eye

Appropriate for who?:

Those who are concerned with anti-aging or preventative maintenance, those who like a lighter consistency, & those who have uneven skin tone under their eyes.

NOT so good for:

Those with very, very crepey, very wrinkled, or SUPER excessively dry eye-areas. I don't believe that the light consistency would cut-it for these patients, and they may not desire the tint in the formulation.

Totally Fabuliz: (Favorite part):

My favorite part has got to be the tint- which I have to admit, I did not feel like I needed. I have very thin skin, but thankfully not much darkness or blue-ish tint from underlying vessels at all. Yet, I love it! The tint makes the whole area look more even and smooth, but isn't heavy or makeup-like in consistency.

Just OK: n/a! I love it.

Needs work: n/a!

Star Rating:

★★★★4 Stars:  Pretty much deserves a Nobel Peace Prize, want it/need it/ have to have it!

Misc Notes/Other need-to-know's:

-This is Biopelle's most popular 'fly's off the shelf' product in the Tensage line. I can see why after using it!

-Check out my Post on Biopelle's Tensage SCA technology here

Bottom Line:

This product feels like it tightens and smoothes after just using it once, and who doesn't love a bit of instant gratification? With prolonged use (I'm using it twice a day), I'm seeing some brightening and hydration.

While I still love the technology behind the highly concentrated HUMAN growth factor in TNS Recovery Complex and TNS Essential Serum, this natural growth factor offers a different approach... with a fun-to-use, cosmetically elegant edge.

Well done AGAIN, little snails! We thank you!

STAR RATING KEY:

★1 Star: Might pass this one up

★★2 Stars: Okay for the money

★★★3 Stars: Really nice product, I’d buy it

★★★★4 Stars: Pretty much deserves a Nobel Peace Prize, want it/need it/ have to have it!

Product Review: Tensage SCA 3 Soothing Cream Moisturizer

Word on the Street/Company Claims: Cryptomphalus Aspersa, a type of snail which has evolved to heal itself with it's own secreted Glycoproteins and growth factors, is the source for the anti-aging element of this moisturizer. SCA is used both for post-procedure (when you REALLY have to kick up the healing process) and to heal sun-damaged or aged skin in a daily home-care regimen. This growth factor promotes healing and skin health.

This particular product is a light weight, yet potent moisturizer which contains SCA.

• Soothing Cream Moisturizer Benefits:
  • gently hydrates skin
  • complements acne treatments (non-comedogenic)
  • leaves skin looking smoother and brighter

Appropriate for who?:

Acne patients (or those who break out easily), those who are concerned with anti-aging or preventative maintenance, and/or who may be healing from a procedure. This product is great for dry skin, normal skin, combination, mature, and reactive/sensitive skin types. 

NOT so good for:

Very, Very, Dry skin, those who desire SPF in their moisturizer, or those who want a more decadent consistency. (These particular people would try the Tensage SCA 6)

Totally Fabuliz: (Favorite part):

This moisturizer has a non-greasy finish and seems to pack a serious punch of potent moisture. I have dry skin, but break out easily... so I am always paranoid of products that build up on the skin or cause congestion... this is not one of them. It also made me feel like my old breakouts were healing faster.

It absorbs completely, but if a creamier SPF is applied on top, (I applied PRESCRIBEDsolutions Up the Anti Oil free SPF 30 during the day) you'll retain a dewey, glowing look and feel, which I liked. Not unlike the Tensage Intensive Serum, it feels like it brightens and smoothes after using it once.

Just OK: Wishing it was in a pump. (it's in a nice-looking jar)

Needs work: n/a!

Star Rating:

★★★3 Stars:  Really nice product, I’d buy it

Misc Notes/Other need-to-know's:

-A little goes a long way.

-If you plan to use this when healing from a procedure, ask your practitioner how they'd like to see you use it. Rumor: layering it on 'like cake frosting' after a chemical peel (or other procedure), allowing most to absorb, and then smoothing out the excess is a great way to calm and hydrate.

-Check out my Post on Biopelle's Tensage SCA technology here

Bottom Line:

Thank GOODNESS that those of us with adult acne (or prone to congestion) have an anti-aging moisturizer that won't cause breakouts! YES!

While I still love the technology behind the highly concentrated HUMAN growth factor in TNS Recovery Complex and TNS Essential Serum, this natural growth factor offers a different approach... with a fun-to-use, cosmetically elegant edge.

Well done, little snails! Once again, we thank you!

STAR RATING KEY:

★1 Star: Might pass this one up

★★2 Stars: Okay for the money

★★★3 Stars: Really nice product, I’d buy it

★★★★4 Stars: Pretty much deserves a Nobel Peace Prize, want it/need it/ have to have it!

Product Review: Tensage SCA Intensive Serum 40

Word on the Street/Company Claims: Cryptomphalus Aspersa, a type of snail which has evolved to heal itself with it's own secreted Glycoproteins and growth factors, is the source for this concentrated anti-aging serum. SCA is used both for post-procedure (when you REALLY have to kick up the healing process) and to heal sun-damaged or aged skin in a daily home-care regimen. This particular product is in ampoule-form, and contains the highest concentration of SCA. Used either daily for 7 days and then one time per week, or once in-office followed by 3 days in a row (then weekly after that), this growth factor promotes healing and skin health. Additional benefits include:

• Helping to repair skin damage caused by environmental smoke and toxins
• Helping skin recover from the effects of sun damage
• Helping skin heal after laser and aesthetic treatments

Appropriate for who?:

Those who are concerned with anti-aging or preventative maintenance, those who may be healing from a procedure, dry skin, mature skin

NOT so good for:

Very, very reactive/sensitive skin types may detect tingling when this product is applied. Anyone who experiences irritation should call their skin care provider.

Totally Fabuliz: (Favorite part):

This serum feels like an in-office treatment... but you can have it at home whenever you want! I love this after a dermaplaning! Although it's got an elegant serum-consistency, it absorbs completely and does not make me feel oily or break out. It feels like it brightens and smoothes after using it once.

Just OK: n/a! I love it.

Needs work: n/a!

Star Rating:

★★★★4 Stars:  Pretty much deserves a Nobel Peace Prize, want it/need it/ have to have it!

Misc Notes/Other need-to-know's:

-Depending on how dry I am when I apply it, I can feel a brief tingle or warmth sensation. It only lasts for a moment, and doesn't bother me. I understand this to be the vehicle, which then evaporates.

-The ampoules can be used in several different ways, ask your skin care professional in what intervals they recommend using it.

-Check out my Post on Biopelle's Tensage SCA technology here

Bottom Line:

While I still love the technology behind the highly concentrated HUMAN growth factor in TNS Recovery Complex and TNS Essential Serum, this natural growth factor offers a different approach... with a fun-to-use, cosmetically elegant edge.

As far as it feels, this is the stuff dreams are made of. Others who have tried it agree. And who doesn't love a little instant gratification, backed with some good anti-aging science??

Well done, little snails! We thank you!

STAR RATING KEY:

★1 Star: Might pass this one up

★★2 Stars: Okay for the money

★★★3 Stars: Really nice product, I’d buy it

★★★★4 Stars: Pretty much deserves a Nobel Peace Prize, want it/need it/ have to have it!

OBSESSED. (no snails were harmed in the making of this post)

It sounds like a strange, anti-aging fairy tale: A special breed of prehistoric snail has evolved to produce secretions of growth factors and glycoproteins. These snails are farmed in a facility in Spain, and their secretions are harvested for use in an anti-aging product. Yes, one that you put on your skin.* *I know what you may be thinking... (I was thinking it, too) So I asked: Their secretions are filtered for purity before use.

This technology is called SCA, which stands for Secretion of Cryptomphalus Aspersa, and has been helping patients to heal after cosmetic procedures. It is also used as part of a homecare regimen, which is how I've been experimenting with it.

I had the pleasure of trying (albeit, reluctantly at first!) 3 super fabulous products: Tensage Intensive Serum 40 SCA, Tensage Soothing Cream 3 SCA, and Tensage Radiance Eye Cream 10 SCA. The number at the end is what Biopelle (the makers of the line) call the Biorepair Index Number, and represents the percentage concentration of SCA in each product.

I have to say, I am always leery at first when a new product appears on my radar. Especially when the claims seem fairytale-like in nature. But I cannot deny how awesome this makes my skin look! It's smoother, my breakouts are healing (yes, I'm totally acne-prone) and my skin tone is evening out after a long summer honing my skills in beach volleyball.

And these products are instant-gratification-city. Not only are they cosmetically elegant and light in consistency, but my skin looks like something out of a fairy-tale when I've got them on!

And of course, the proof is in the pudding: they've got some very nice studies to back it all up. Because it's one thing if it makes you LOOK good, but it is actually DOING anything? Seems as though the answer here is yes. Here's a short, fairly-understandable read on how this snail secretion inspires proliferation of human keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts when used topically. So, even though I'm imagining Spanish snails living happily on a farm, now it's a bit less fairytale for me. ;)

Stay tuned for individual product reviews for these, and until next time- stay fabulous, my friends!

BOTOX for Babies- Part 5: Request the red carpet treatment

Have you been nervous to try an injectable because of bruising or discomfort? Read on… There is a TOTAL laundry list of ways to avoid little bruises or lessen the slight (and temporary) discomfort from an injectable cosmetic treatment, but here is one of my tips based on my experiences in the office:

Ask for the VIP (filler) treatment:

Ever thought you could get Juvederm, Restylane, or other soft-tissue filler without the scary needle? Well you can, if your doctor uses blunt-tipped cannulas. Blunt-tipped cannulas are like the more innocent, duller cousin of the dreaded sharp needle. They aren't sharp, so they won't poke around and upset the tissue.  Check out my other post on Dermasculpt Cannulas here, a brand of a blunt-tipped cannula. 

If your doc uses them, ask if you're a good candidate- you'll be glad you did! They allow for less trauma to the area, so that means a more comfortable, smoother treatment with less chance of bruising. This is great for areas like the lips, the naso-labial folds, and the cheeks!

Here is a great video illustrating the difference between the cannula and a needle, they show a close up so it’s really easy to see (Don’t worry if you’re a wimp, they don’t inject anybody in the video- it’s just a neat comparison!)

http://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/766021 (warning: you have to create a free account to view it)

Your doc will likely have specific instructions for you, including post-care. Please note: this post is simply meant to be fun and informative, *not the authority on your health* so please always follow your doctor's instructions... and NOT what you read on the internet. (yes, this blog included!)

Keep in mind that there are always risks to every procedure, so chat it up with your physician to make sure these procedures are appropriate for you… Until Next time: Stay safe, and fabulous!

Liposonix: Giving Chicago a kick in the butt... actually, the abdomen

Last night in Chicago, Dr Steven Bloch (of BodyByBloch in Highland Park and Glenview) taught area physicians and their staff a thing or two about Liposonix at the Solta Medical Laser Symposium. The Liposonix system uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (They call it HIFU) energy. It was very, very interesting! HIFU is being used in this application to non-invasively destroy targeted subcutaneous fat and deliver slimming (of 1 inch on average) results after a single, one-hour session.

Solta, the makers of Liposonix say " One Treatment, One Hour, One Inch..." (click for a vid)

Results are usually seen in 8 to 12 weeks (which is the time needed for the body to naturally process the treated fat). So, just make sure to weigh in at the same weight before you make any judgement calls. Many offices in the room have already been using it- and they all agreed that it works! Here's the Liposonix Website if you're interested. 

Oh, and here's an interesting tidbit: To quantify the extent of the desire to lose fat in the waist area, Solta Medical sponsored “The State of Love Handles in America” nationwide survey of more than 1,000 women. They released survey findings that include:

• 62% of women say the part of their body they are most uncomfortable with is their tummy/love handles.
• 45% claim they would give up sex for one year to lose an inch.
• 66% would give up chocolate for one year to lose an inch.
• 75% would give up clothes shopping for one year to lose an inch.

SHOPPING though, you guys?!? Really???

Until next time, stay fabulous my friends!