Category Archives: Skin Care

How Long Until My Hyperpigmentation Disappears with IPL Treatment?

How Long Until My Hyperpigmentation Disappears with IPL Treatment?

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Do you have sun spots or age spots on your face that you would like to erase? It’s often difficult to treat hyperpigmentation topically, but IPL photorejuvenation is an excellent non-invasive approach. IPL is an effective treatment that leaves the skin clearer and lighter. However, one of the questions patients frequently ask about the procedure is – How long until my hyperpigmentation disappears with IPL treatment.

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation refers to the discoloration or darkening of the skin, and it can be brought on by factors such as excess sun exposure and acne.

Hyperpigmentation often occurs when melanocytes are stimulated. Melanocytes are the cells in the skin that produce melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin its color. When more than normal amounts of melanin are produced, dark spots form on the skin. The surplus production of melanin may be triggered by sun exposure, inflammation or hormonal changes.

Sun spots, brown spots, freckles, and melasma are among the most common pigmentation problems.

What is IPL?

IPL (intense pulsed light) also known as photorejuvenation is a skin rejuvenation procedure that is used to reduce sun damage and hyperpigmentation on the face, neck, and chest. IPL may also be used to treat other skin issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, and broken capillaries. The procedure also evens skin tone and gives the skin a more youthful appearance.

IPL Photorejuvenation for hyperpigmentation

The patient’s skin is cleansed before treatment, and then a clear gel is placed over the treatment area. A protective eye shield is used to protect the eyes during IPL treatment.

The IPL device delivers a broad spectrum of intense light that penetrates the outer layer of the skin and is absorbed by the pigments. The heat breaks down the pigments into small particles that rise to the surface, or are cleansed via the immune system. The heat also stimulates collagen, so new, brighter skin cells eventually emerge.

Patients may experience a slight stinging sensation with IPL treatment, but it is not generally painful.

After treatment patients are advised to wear sunscreen and minimize exposure to sunlight for a week or two.

IPL treatment can be customized to suit varying skin tones and skin issues in order to achieve the best results.

How Long Until My Hyperpigmentation Disappears with Laser Treatment?

After IPL photorejuvenation the treated area gets noticeably darker and this can last anywhere from 7-14 days. How long it takes hyperpigmentation to disappear will also vary depending on the area of the body being treated. Hyperpigmentation on the face typically disappears a lot faster than on the chest or arms.

Doctors advise patients to keep the skin well moisturized and hydrated to help the recovery process along.

The type of spots being treated and the depth of the pigmentation also influence how long it will take hyperpigmentation to disappear. The pigmented cells that are targeted during IPL treatment are usually in the epidermis, which is the upper layer of the skin. Once treated, the cells slowly rise to the surface, and this process can take several weeks.

Spots that are close to the surface of the skin will flake off a lot quicker than those that are deep seated. For example, melasma is more difficult to remove when compared to other forms of hyperpigmentation such as sunspots and brown spots, as the pigments are situated deep in the skin.

It typically takes a series of treatments to get the best results with IPL photorejuvenation. This may range from 3-5 treatments, depending on the amount of hyperpigmentation that needs to be corrected.

Are you a good candidate for IPL?

If you have spots on your skin due to excess pigmentation, you may be a good candidate for IPL therapy. It’s the ideal treatment for people that don’t need to undergo a more intensive skin rejuvenation procedure, which will require a lengthy downtime.

Are you ready to book your IPL treatment for hyperpigmentation?

If you are in the greater Denver, CO area, Colorado Skin & Vein, Englewood is our featured practice. At Colorado Skin & Vein they use the innovative CUTERA xeo IPL device for treating pigmentation.

Call (720) 594-5063 today to set up a consultation.

Where is the Incision Made for Facial Implants?

Where is the Incision Made for Facial Implants?

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If you would like to improve the proportions or structural appearance of your face, facial implants may be the solution for you. Facial implants help to reshape the face and add volume, providing lasting changes to the overall contours of the face. But what’s involved in the operation, and where is the incision made for facial implants.

Facial implants

Facial implants enhance the contours of the face by improving specific features. The cheeks, chin, and jaw are the areas usually targeted. Implants can be used to add youthful volume to flat, sunken cheeks, define a weak, recessed chin, and strengthen the jawline.

The implants used for facial surgery are typically made of solid silicone, or porous polyethylene materials.

Where is the Incision Made for Facial Implants?

The location of the incision made for facial implants will depend on the type of implants, and the specific procedure being done.

  • Cheek implants. The incision for cheek augmentation is usually made inside of the mouth, or along the lower eyelid. A pocket will be created to hold the implant.
  • Chin implants. The incision for chin augmentation is made inside the mouth along the lower lip, or right below the chin area.
  • Jaw implants. The surgeon makes incisions for jaw implants on either side of the lower lip.

Facial implant surgery can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete, depending on where the implants are being placed.

Are you interested in facial implants? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Tucson or Sierra Vista, AZ areas, Dermatology & Plastic Surgery of Arizona is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.dermplasticsaz.com, or by calling 520-207-3100 for the Tucson location, or 520-458-1787 for the office in Sierra Vista.

Can My Own Platelets Rejuvenate My Skin?

Can My Own Platelets Rejuvenate My Skin?

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The PRP facial has gained a lot of prominence in recent years, because of its amazing benefits. However, many people still consider the procedure a fad and wonder if it really works. As a result, they are curious to find out – Can my own platelets rejuvenate my skin.

Can your Own Platelets Rejuvenate your Skin?
Yes, it is possible to use your own platelets to rejuvenate your skin, and it’s done with a simple technique known as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy. PRP therapy is now a popular facial cosmetic procedure for renewing and revitalizing the skin.

How PRP rejuvenates the skin
The blood is first drawn from the patient, and then spun in a centrifuge to isolate the plasma that contains platelets and healing growth factors. The concentrated serum of platelets is then injected back into the skin and the growth factors soon restore and heal the skin from within.

PRP therapy triggers the skin’s natural repair process, resulting in an increase in collagen production. Collagen is a skin protein that makes the skin tighter, improves skin texture, and reduces fine lines.

PRP leaves the skin smooth and radiant. It is regularly used as an anti-aging treatment because it addresses skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and volume loss. Patients find PRP very appealing, because it is an all-natural skin rejuvenation solution.

Doctors have been using PRP for many years to help athletes heal injured or failing joints, but it has only recently been applied to the cosmetic industry.

PRP can be performed on its own, or done in conjunction with other cosmetic treatments such as laser skin resurfacing, dermal fillers, and microneedling.

Would you like to learn more about PRP therapy for skin rejuvenation? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Orange County area, Total Dermatology, Irvine, CA is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.totaldermatology.com, or by calling 949-727-3800.

How many laser hair removal treatments are needed for optimal results?

How many laser hair removal treatments are needed for optimal results?

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Have you decided to undergo laser hair removal? Obviously you’re excited to get started, but you are probably interested in finding out how many treatments are needed for optimal results. It’s a good idea to know this ahead of time, so that you can schedule treatment accordingly.

What is laser hair removal
Laser hair removal is a procedure in which a concentrated beam of light is used to eliminate unwanted hair. The laser light is focused on the hair follicle, and targets the melanin (pigment) at the base. The light is converted into heat and is absorbed by the hair, and this disables the hair follicle.

How Many Laser Hair Removal Treatments are needed for optimal results?
There is no magic number of treatments for achieving optimal results with laser hair removal, but multiple sessions are needed. However, most patients need an average of 5 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart. The number of treatments required may vary from the average depending the patient’s skin type, and the thickness of their hair.

The hair’s natural growth cycle is also a factor as hair grows in three phases, and the laser energy can only treat hair when it is in the growth cycle. After this hair is treated and shed, the hair in the other phases catagen (transition), and telogen (resting) will then move into the growth cycle and be targeted during later sessions.

The laser technology used also influences the number of treatments needed, as some lasers are more efficient than others (click here to learn more).

Ready to try laser hair removal? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Chicago IL area, Skin Care Center is our featured practice. They also have locations in Glenview and Lake Forest IL.

You can reach them at www.skincarectr.com, or by calling 773.296.3636 for Chicago, 847.901.0252 for Glenview, or 847.234.6121 for the Lake Forest location.

How can I reduce dark spots on my face?

How can I reduce dark spots on my face?

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If you have dark spots on your face you’re probably anxious to have them cleared up. Dark spots on the skin are usually the result of excess sun exposure, but may also be due to skin problems such as acne. So how can you reduce dark spots on your face?

Dark spots on the face are most often caused by sun damage. However acne pimples, infections, and rashes, can also leave behind dark marks, and unfortunately, they don’t usually fade on their own, but laser skin resurfacing can help.

How can you reduce dark spots on your face?
Laser skin resurfacing can help to reduce dark spots on the face. There are a variety of technologies now on the market for this purpose, but the Halo laser is certainly one of the most effective.

Halo is an innovative hybrid fractional laser by Sciton that combines 2 wavelengths, to give you clear, healthy skin with minimal downtime. The non-ablative and ablative wavelengths work together to address skin imperfections and tighten the skin.

How Halo reduces dark spots on the face
The laser energy is delivered in microscopic beams that treat specific zones of the skin. The ablative wavelength works on the outer layers to improve skin tone and texture, and this reduces the appearance of dark spots.

There may be some minor swelling and redness after Halo skin resurfacing treatment, but this resolves fairly quickly. The treated skin cells will peel away within a few days, and the dark spots will gradually fade, resulting in healthier, clearer skin.

Are you interested in Halo treatment for dark spots? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Okemos & East Lansing, MI areas, Ageless Beauty Center is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.agelessbeautycenterokemos.com, or by calling (517) 245-0798.

Will Facials Improve My Dark Sun Spots?

Will Facials Improve My Dark Sun Spots?

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Are dark sun spots preventing you from having the flawless skin you desire? If the answer is yes, it may be time to consider getting a facial. It’s well-known that facials are a great way to restore the health of your skin. But will facials improve your dark sun spots.

What causes dark sun spots?
Dark sun spots or hyperpigmentation are caused by the excess production of melanin, resulting in dark spots or patches on the skin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color. The creation of extra melanin is triggered by long term sun exposure.

Will facials improve my dark sun spots?
Yes, facials can improve the appearance of dark sun spots, because they exfoliate and refresh the skin. There are different types of facials available, but dermaplaning facials, deep pore facials, and chemical peels, are among the most effective options for dark sunspots (learn more).

• Dermaplaning removes dead skin cells from the uppermost layer of the skin. This involves the use of a surgical scalpel to scrape away the unwanted skin cells. The new fresh skin that comes to the surface is brighter and clearer, so discoloration is diminished.
• A deep pore facial also improves dark sun spots as it extracts impurities, and exfoliates the skin. It goes deep into the pores to clear oil and other debris that congest the skin, and this helps to clear the complexion.
• Chemical peels are exfoliating treatments that remove the upper layers of dead skin cells, so the skin appears brighter. Peels also enhance cell turnover, so dark spots become less prominent over time.

Are you ready to get rid of those dark sunspots? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Long Beach, CA area, Laser Skin Care Center Dermatology Associates is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.lasercarespecialists.com, or by calling (562) 376-2930.

How Does FotoFacial RF Pro Differ from Other photorejuvenation Procedures?

How Does FotoFacial RF Pro Differ from Other photorejuvenation Procedures?

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Would you like to improve the clarity and texture of your skin? You can restore its tone and youthful radiance with photorejuvenation, and FotoFacial RF is one of the most effective options. But just how does FotoFacial RF differ from other photorejuvenation procedures.

What is photorejuvenation?
Photorejuvenation is a skin treatment that uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to revitalize the tone and texture of the skin. It is an effective remedy for sun damaged skin as it reduces the appearance of sun spots, brown spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. It also treats skin conditions such as spider veins, rosacea, enlarged pores, and broken capillaries.

How does FotoFacial differ from other photorejuvenation procedures?
FotoFacial merges three technologies – intense pulsed light, radiofrequency (RF) energy, and diode laser – into one treatment. It is a next-generation skin rejuvenation procedure that brings together the best non-invasive skin care technologies.

While IPL photorejuvenation can improve the appearance of the skin and resolve textural irregularities, FotoFacial is a more versatile treatment that targets all the elements of the skin. The RF energy and IPL work simultaneously to reduce imperfections, and stimulate collagen production.

FotoFacial can be used on the face, neck, and body. The treatment takes about 30 minutes to complete, and a series of 5-6 sessions may be needed to achieve maximum results. There is no downtime with FotoFacial.

Are you interested in finding out more about FotoFacial? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Chicago, IL area, Skin Care Center is our featured practice. They also have offices in Glenview, IL and Lake Forest, IL.

You can reach them at www.skincarectr.com, or by calling 773-296-3636 for the Chicago office, 847-901-0252 for Glenview, and 847-234-6121for the Lake Forest office.

What causes adult acne?

What causes adult acne?

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Isn’t acne a condition that only affects teenagers? Not so, because many adults have acne as well. Unfortunately not all teenagers with acne shake off those pesky, unpleasant pimples in the teen years, some struggle with it well into adulthood. But what exactly causes adult acne and how is it treated.

What causes adult acne?
Adult acne may be caused by a variety of factors including the following:

  • Hormones: Acne caused by hormones can affect men and women, but it’s a lot more common in women. Hormonal acne results from hormonal changes that lead to an increase in the production of sebum by the sebaceous or oil glands. The excess oil pours out onto the surface of the skin and clogs the pores, resulting in the formation of bacteria that leads to acne pimples.
  • Stress: Stress is also a major contributor to adult acne. The older you get the harder it is to balance all that needs to be done, and stress can trigger an increase in stress hormones, which in turn stimulates the production of oil, leading to clogged pores.
  • Skin Care Products: Many adults with acne prone skin don’t use the right skin care products for their skin type, and they also use products and makeup which contain ingredients that can cause acne breakouts. Ingredients that are too harsh can lead to excessive dryness and inflammation. Adults with acne are generally advised to use non-comedogenic products and makeup that will not clog pores.

Treating adult acne
The treatment for adult acne is customized based on the patient’s specific skin type and symptoms.

Would you like to learn more about adult acne? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Memphis & Collierville areas, Levy Dermatology is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.levydermatology.com, or by calling (901) 295-0183.

Will medical-grade skin care products help my skin look younger?

Will medical-grade skin care products help my skin look younger?

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Looking to tune-up your skin care routine? Use medical-grade products! When it comes to skin care, medical-grade skin care products are highly recommended, but are more expensive than over-the-counter options. With so many skin care lines available, clients usually want to know if medical grade products are worth the price, so they ask their physician – Will medical grade skin care products help my skin look younger.

What are medical-grade skin care products?
Medical-grade skin care products are distinguished by the quantity and quality of their ingredients. These products typically contain a high concentration of active ingredients that have been clinically proven by medical researchers and scientists, as being effective for treating specific skin concerns. Medical-grade products are subjected to rigorous testing and research, and therefore have documented, proven results.

Will medical-grade skin care products help my skin look younger
Yes they will! Medical-grade skin care products are designed to penetrate down to the deep layers of the skin, and improve the underlying structure. They often contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and retinol, which are known for their anti-aging benefits. In addition, some medical-grade products stimulate the production of collagen in the skin, and this helps restore the skin’s youthful look, as it keeps the skin plump and free of wrinkles.

Medical-grade skin care products are dispensed by a dermatologist or other medical professional, so that the right amount of product is dispensed to match the specific skin concern being treated.

Are you ready to take your skin care regimen to the next level? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Long Beach, CA area, Laser Skin Care Center Dermatology Associates is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.lasercarespecialists.com, or by calling (562) 376-2930.

What Is Mohs Micrographic Surgery

What Is Mohs Micrographic Surgery

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Non-melanoma skin cancer is a serious problem in the US, as each year approximately 3 million people are diagnosed with the disease. However, the condition is treatable if caught early, and Mohs micrographic surgery is a highly successful treatment option. But what exactly is Mohs micrographic surgery.

What is Mohs micrographic surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise procedure that is used to treat certain types of skin cancer, specifically, basal cell carcinoma BCC and squamous cell carcinoma SCC. The specialized surgical technique was developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs in the 1930’s.

Mohs surgery has a high success rate, which is due to the fact that it removes the portion of the tumor, as well as the roots that lie below the surface of the skin.

How Mohs Micrographic surgery works
Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and the tumor is then excised. A layer of tissue in the surrounding area is then surgically removed, and is taken to the lab for analysis. The surgeon cuts the tissue, uses dyes to color code it, and draws a map of the surgical site. During this time the wound is bandaged, and the patient awaits the results.

The tissue is divided in the lab and examined under a microscope, to determine if there is any evidence of cancer. If there is, the surgeon marks the area on the map, and then removes another layer of tissue from the patient in the spot where cancer cells are seen. This process is repeated until no more cancer cells are present. Depending on the extent of surgery the wound may be stitched, or left to heal on its own.

Would you like more information on Mohs micrographic surgery? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Memphis or Collierville, TN areas Levy Dermatology is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.levydermatology.com, or by calling 901-295-0183.