Who Can Benefit From Laser Resurfacing?

May 15, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Undeniably, most people work hard towards keeping their skin soft, smooth, and young. Sunscreens, moisturizers, and other cosmetic products are the more popular utilities that we use. Skin care regimens that focus on exfoliating, cleansing, and hydrating the face and neck are greatly encouraged. As much as these skin care efforts help fight effects of being exposed to the elements and aging, at times they are just not enough. The texture, color, and quality of your skin can be compromised by our daily lifestyle habits such as drinking and smoking which take their toll over time.

 

Whether you have been dutifully taking care of your skin or not, being perpetually exposed to the sun’s rays, and other elements might cause your skin to develop wrinkles in addition to appearing dried out. Laser resurfacing treatments are an excellent option towards rejuvenating your skin, improving minor facial flaws, and restoring a youthful, healthy complexion.

 

What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

 

Also referred to as laser vaporization, lasabration, or laser peel, it is a cosmetic procedure that helps to reduce the effects of sunlight exposure, aging, some facial skin conditions, and rejuvenate the skin. Additionally, laser skin treatments are convenient, practical, and safe while being relatively cost-friendly as compared to other skin treatment options. The latest laser resurfacing procedures offer your cosmetic surgeon an enhanced level of control which allows extreme precision, particularly when treating delicate and sensitive areas.

 

Areas that Laser Skin Resurfacing Improves

 

  • Scars from chickenpox or acne
  • Wrinkles and fine lines under or around your forehead, eyes, and mouth
  • Sun-damaged and aged skin
  • Non-responsive areas after a facelift
  • Warts
  • Liver spots
  • Enlarged oil glands on the nose
  • Birthmarks

 

How Laser Skin Resurfacing Works

 

The technique uses high-frequency beams of light known as lasers. The cosmetic surgeon directs the short, concentrated beams in pulses at the affected area. They remove damaged, unwanted skin precisely layer by layer. During the procedure, the laser beam dissolves molecular bonds between the cells of the damaged skin one layer at a time until a smooth, and more uniform skin is realized. While the laser is removing your outer skin layer (epidermis), it is also simultaneously heating up your underlying layer (dermis). The action stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers (proteins responsible for your skin’s firmness and elasticity). Thus, the treated area heals to a new skin which is firmer and smoother. Laser resurfacing can also be called laser rejuvenation due to its anti-aging rewards.

 

The targeted approach employed by laser resurfacing implies that there will be little to none hypopigmentation issues (lightening of the skin) when undergoing treatment for acne or scar removal.

 

Who Stands to Benefit from Laser Resurfacing?

 

For some people, laser resurfacing treatments perform an excellent task at removing the appearance of wrinkles and lines, irregular skin pigmentation, and scars. However, individuals with some specific skin tones, skin types, and medical disorders might be prone to developing unpleasant side effects. As such, in some cases, laser treatments may, in fact, worsen a person’s facial appearance. It is, therefore, a good rule to consult your dermatologist before seeking laser skin resurfacing treatments.

 

Ideally, the person who benefits most from laser surgery is one who has a non-oily and elastic skin which is not at risk of scarring after a minor injury. Additionally, it is recommended that this procedure is done only to individuals who are free from any medical considerations, including existing health conditions and prescription medication that might cause unwarranted risks during treatment or when recovering. Nevertheless, here are some characteristics of the ideal laser resurfacing treatment candidate:

 

  1. Lighter skin tone

 

The CO2 lasers used traditionally had the tendency of creating problems for darker-skinned people. The CO2 typically works by removing all the color from the skin thus there is no guarantee that a dark-skinned person’s skin will even out completely after the treatment. This might result in discoloration. Even though fair-skinned individuals may also be susceptible to discoloration, people with darker skin tones are at a higher risk. You, therefore, need to let your doctor assess your risk level based on your skin tone.

 

  1. Your problem spots are not too deep

 

Whether you are looking to clear acne scarring, wrinkles, dark spots, or warts, laser resurfacing is only effective if these issues are near the skin’s surface. Lasers usually work on the upper skin layers thus deep scars or discoloration might be beyond the lasers’ reach.

 

  1. The problem is on your face

 

Lasers are typically used only on the face because it has a healthy amount of sebaceous glands. Other body parts may not contain enough of these glands, and you might likely get burnt.

 

  1. You don’t have a sagging skin

 

Laser skin resurfacing does indeed help to tighten the skin; but only to some extent. However, these techniques can do little to minimize a loose sagging skin. For a skin which is sagging in the jowls, your cosmetic surgeon might recommend a facelift to enhance your look.

 

  1. You are not prone to acne flare-ups

 

Laser resurfacing is quite effective at smoothing out acne scars. However, the treatment has been known to intensify acne flare-ups after the procedure. Hence, if you have an active acne condition, you might need to reconsider this treatment.

 

  1. You are not prone to cold sores

 

Laser skin resurfacing treatments have a history of making individuals more susceptible to cold sores immediately after the operation. If you are an individual that contracts cold sores regularly, your GP might prescribe antiviral medicine to use before your treatment, to assist in minimizing complications that may arise from the cold sore.

 

If you possess minor flaws in your skin that affect its quality, you can benefit a lot from laser skin resurfacing treatments. You do not have to live with wrinkles, spots, and scars. Rather, rejuvenate your skin for a youthful, healthy appearance.
If you are considering laser resurfacing in Wisconsin, talk to an experienced doctor or cosmetic surgeon about your particular needs and the options that are available for you. Laser skin resurfacing is a risky procedure and therefore needs to be done by a skilled plastic surgeon who will give you the best results while minimizing the risks. Dr. Joseph W. Rucker, Jr. is a renowned plastic surgeon board-certified by the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. Dr. Rucker is located in Eau Claire, WI. Book your consultation now to find out if laser skin resurfacing is for you.

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Skin Is Too Thin for Rhinoplasty? These Techniques Are For You!

May 15, 2018 by Leave a Comment

If you have thin skin and require rhinoplasty done on your nose, you are likely to have the same issues as having thick skin. A special set of skills is the only way to achieve above par results. When you have had several nose surgeries, your skin is thin and a revision rhinoplasty will work with the thinner soft tissue. People of northern Europe are likely to have thin skin.

 

When a patient requires an enlarged tip cartilage or a bump and has thin skin, a two-fold procedure will be done. This involves creating smoothing edges on the nasal bridge and tip at the end of the nose surgery, to reduce the visibility of imperfections once the swelling fades.

 

To camouflage minor irregularities, the surgeon places soft tissue at the nasal bridge or tip to thicken the skin. The soft tissue can be from the ear, or Alloderm which is an available collagen sheet obtained from cadavers, and approved by the FDA. Alloderm has been used for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and for over 20 years as a skin replacement for burn patients.

 

With the different rhinoplasty techniques available there are different forms of challenges that affect each surgery. When you decide to get a surgeon to work on your thin skin, ensure that you find one who has experience in this field or they are likely to make the situation worse than it already is.

 

There are advantages and disadvantages of having thin skin when it comes to rhinoplasty, which is the same case as patients with thick skin. An advantage is having less swelling when you are healing and it will heal fast, and also the incisions are likely not to form scars.

 

Challenges with thin skin

 

The underlying imperfections that are as a result of nasal framework or any other rhinoplasty surgery are going to be noticeable. This is not the case with thick skinned patients who can easily conceal their imperfections.

 

Thin skin tightens or at times shrinks after any surgical procedure is done on the skin. Shrinking skin makes it possible for deformities and distortions to occur because the pressure is placed on the skeletal framework.

 

Shaping a flawless and smooth underlying nasal framework is difficult because imperfections will form, and become easily visible.

 

Techniques to deal with Thin Skin Challenges

 

The first method is a 3D high definition telescope or camera that can help to visualize the bump and this will help to create smooth edges. Your surgeon can also do traditional cosmetic surgery which involves inspecting the bump from a distance without magnifying it.

 

The surgeon can decide to use a specialized 3D camera and telescopes that magnify the inside together with the traditional methods. This technique allows your surgeon to sculpt the bridge of your nose better.

 

The second method is using specialized graft and cartilage sculpting that uses filing or sanding instruments that will result in a smoother result, than when you use the normal surgical knife. The surgical knife tends to achieve angled edges instead of round edges.

 

Your experienced surgeon can decide not to divide the tip-cartilage through a procedure called vertical dome division. On thin skin patients, it will result in noticeable cartilage edges over time. The tip cartilages can be trimmed without dividing them completely. It is common for patients who have had vertical dome division done to have their edges sharp, and unnatural.

 

Rhinoplasty on Thin Skin results in Irregularities

 

If you have irregularities after surgery, it is possible to have revision rhinoplasty to smooth out the visible edges by placing soft tissue between the cartilage and bone framework and thin skin of the nose to give you a softer and smooth look. It is best to wait for one year before you go ahead and seek revision rhinoplasty. This way it will allow the swelling to completely dissipate.

 

Pros and Cons between Temporalis fascia (soft tissue from above the ear) and Alloderm to thicken skin in nose surgery.

 

With the Temporalis fascia being the patient’s own tissue, infection is not likely to occur, but a second surgery will be done to obtain the tissue from above the ear. The pro is that it will heal quickly.

 

Alloderm has been used for many years with minimal infections. Absorption rate depends on the patient, as for some it won’t absorb as fast as others. The pro is that there is no second surgery required because it is easily available.

 

Risks of Revision Rhinoplasty

 

Thin skin patients can go and have a revised rhinoplasty surgery to reduce the irregularities they have, but there are some risks that are going to occur.

 

Some of them include infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetries. These risks are not frequent, but the surgeon needs to talk to the patient about the possibilities of them occurring, this way the patient is prepared.

 

If the benefits outweigh the risks, the revision rhinoplasty can be carried out, but if the risks such as deformity, outweigh the benefits, there’s no need to put the patient through a second surgery.

 

There are plenty of challenges that arise when doing rhinoplasty, but patients with thinner skin have extra challenges, and risks that accompany them. It is best to work with a surgeon who is going to make sure that the end result is not going to require you have another surgery, but you end up having a softer look and be pretty.

 

Conclusion

 

If you want to have your revision rhinoplasty surgery done by Dr. Andrew Frankel, from Rhinoplasty Revisions, you can contact his office at 310.552.2173 to book an appointment. Dr.Frankel has performed several rhinoplasty surgeries on various patients for many years, and this has given him the skills to adapt to each surgery depending on the patient’s needs. Dr.Frankel is among the best rhinoplasty doctors in Los Angeles.

 

Dr. Frankel is a facial plastic surgeon who will discuss with you all the benefits and risks you are likely to encounter once the surgery is scheduled.

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Chemical Peels: Selecting The Right Peel Strength

May 15, 2018 by 1 Comment

 

Chemical peels are a lot like your favorite pair of shoes: They come in a variety of styles and prices. Some are durable and long-lasting, while others provide a quick pick-me-up for a special occasion. Regardless of what it does, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Different strengths are used for different things.

 

There’s no doubt people love the quick results and smooth, blemish-free skin. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons report it was one of the top three non-invasive cosmetic procedures performed last year. From erasing sunspots to reducing wrinkles, these mini-miracles pack quite a punch at a very reasonable cost.

 

Peels are available in a wide range of formulas that can be customized to target specific problems. Before we dive into how strong of a peel you need, it’s important to talk about who is a good candidate for different levels of peeling. This largely comes down to your Fitzpatrick skin type.

 

Fitzpatrick Skin Types

 

A doctor at Harvard University invented the Fitzpatrick Scale in 1975. It’s still widely used today to gather important information about how the skin might react to certain procedures. It takes into account genetics and how the skin responds sun exposure. The factors are:

 

  • eye color;

 

  • hair color;

 

  • skin color;

 

  • reaction to the sun;

 

  • skin cancer risk;

 

  • hyperpigmentation risk;

 

  • and the tendency to scar.

 

At the lowest end of the spectrum are Type I people with blue eyes, blonde or red hair, pale skin and possibly freckles. They burn easily and don’t ever get a tan in the sun. The risk of skin cancer is very high for this group, but they usually have a lower risk of hyperpigmentation and scarring.

 

The scale advances as skin tone and hair color get darker. The ability to tan also goes up with each level. The risk for procedural side effects also increases beginning at type III, but isn’t considered elevated until type IV. The highest end of the scale is type VI, with black skin that doesn’t burn, dark eyes and black hair. This group has the highest risk of all for hyperpigmentation and scarring.

 

Higher Fitzpatrick skin types may be more limited in the strength of peel they can get. Hyperpigmentation causes spots of discoloration that can be difficult to reverse. Scars in this skin type can also be problematic.

 

Mild Chemical Peels

 

Alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids make up the bulk of most mild chemical peels options. These formulas are gentler than other types. The beta hydroxy is usually salicylic acid. Alpha hydroxy includes glycolic, lactic, malic, citric and/or tartaric acid.

 

They work by removing the most superficial layer of skin, revealing the fresh skin underneath. It doesn’t take long to get one and there’s no downtime afterward. For this reason, you’ll often hear it referred to as a lunchtime peel. It’s usually safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types.

 

As a single application, it works best on milder problems or as part of a regular skin care routine. For better results, a series of peels can be done relatively close together. Doing five to eight in a row can stimulate collagen production and increase elasticity. Mild peels are good for:

 

  • very fine lines;

 

  • acne;

 

  • mild discolorations, such as sun spots;

 

  • large pores;

 

  • and uneven skin tone.

 

Medium Strength Chemical Peels

 

Even though this class of peel is considered medium strength, it can be very intensive. It’s perfect for Fitzpatrick skin types I, II, and III but may be fine for other types as well. Trichloroacetic Acid, or TCA, is a stronger type of acid used in this type of peel. It may be combined with Jessner’s solution, which is lactic acid, resorcinol, and salicylic acid.

 

It damages several layers of skin at once. The layers of skin will dry up and come off, revealing fresh, new skin underneath. It’s more durable than lunchtime peels because it triggers the body’s healing mechanisms to send more collagen to the area. It’s beneficial for

 

  • age or sun spots;

 

  • leathery, photodamaged skin;

 

  • moderate wrinkles;

 

  • and acne scars.

 

Medium depth chemical peels can be uncomfortable. You can ask for a topical numbing agent to be applied beforehand. This peel requires more dedication to following aftercare instructions. From start to finish, you can expect it to take an average of ten days for all of the old skin to come off. It will usually look the worst around day three to six.

 

Deep Chemical Peels

 

These peels are the strongest you can get and the results are impressive. The possible formula combinations include high concentrations of TCA or a Gordon-Baker phenol solution. It is offered for severely photodamaged skin and requires sedation.

 

Higher Fitzpatrick skin types are most likely not good candidates, as the risk of hyperpigmentation and scarring is significant. The process of applying the solutions can take well over an hour. Sometimes tape or bandaging is added. Deep peels can cause discomfort six to eight hours after it’s finished. Healing takes weeks, although collagen will continue being deposited in the skin for up to four months.

 

While deep chemical peels do take longer to heal and are more uncomfortable, they produce outstanding results for most people. It’s the longest lasting and most effective choice for deeper wrinkling, especially around the mouth and forehead.

 

How Strong Can You Go?
Overall, the determination of the strength of your chemical peel depends on several factors, including what you’re using the peel for and how much downtime you can live with. Dr. Frankel will take that information and factor in your skin type and level of photodamage to make a recommendation. Please visit Dr. Frankel’s website for more information.

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Serenity Skin Care and Body Wellness in Englewood, NJ

April 30, 2018 by 14 Comments

Looking for a great Mother’s Day gift?

 

If your mom is anything like most moms, she can use a break. Some rest, relaxation, and perhaps someone taking care of HER for a change of pace. Who wouldn’t like a minute to herself? I can’t think of too many things I like more then a good massage, and I’m guessing your mom is not too different in that arena.

We recently headed over to Serenity Skin Care and Body Wellness in Englewood, NJ. It was located on a really cute “main street” type of road, with a bunch of cute shops and restaurants- it would be easy to make a day of this trip.  The atmosphere was calm and relaxing, and the people who greeted you as well as the therapists were all very relaxed, easy going, and pleasant.

serenity skincare

They offer quite a few services, from facials and massages to waxing and sugaring, to manicures and more. If you want to give it all to mom (or your spouse, mother of your children, your best friend, yourself- whomever), they also have packages available. Make an afternoon of it, and enjoy the time together.  You can read a list of available treatments here.

We enjoyed their couples massage, because there is nothing better than a relaxing treatment except maybe doing so with your partner. They asked us about sore spots, previous massage experiences, preferences, and made sure we were comfortable before the massage began. It was really nice to spend the time with someone I love and being able for us both to relax and enjoy ourselves. It was one of the nicest days I’d had in a long time, and we both felt so well afterward- I’d highly recommend the service and the location.

The time we spent at Serenity Skincare was much-needed relaxation and so rejuvenating, we were both ready for a nap and to take on the world when we were done. (PS, the nap won out, we felt amazing.)

Visit their site https://www.serenityskincare.com to get all the details, to find out more, and to book an appointment.

Serenity Skincare

7 GRAND AVE.

ENGLEWOOD, NJ 07631

(201) 816-3050

 

 

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Belli Beauty’s Anti-Blemish Facial Wash

April 30, 2018 by 2 Comments

Belli Beauty’s Anti-Blemish Facial Wash (www.belliskincare.com).  So many women are talking about this new product, which works wonders on pimples/acne due to hormones, stress or skin sensitivities. It’s also completely safe and formulated for pregnant women, so it’s pretty safe for just about anyone.

My partner and I have been trying it out the past two weeks, and I like how clean my face feels after using it. We both like that it cleans while not drying out our skin, especially his. He has really dry skin that is prone to flaking under and around his bead, but the days when we’ve used this as his facial wash has actually helped- and it smells like citrus, lemonish, not like flowers or a “girly” smell, so really- guys can use it as well.

Anti-Blemish Facial Wash is a pure face wash that leaves skin clear and refined, without over-drying or irritation. It also smells nice, and not perfume-y. Lactic acid (found naturally in the body) gently and effectively cleanses and exfoliates acne prone skin. Lemon peel oil is a natural anti-bacterial and skin brightener. Green tea extract and cucumber are rich in antioxidants. This face wash is free of any salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide-common acne fighting ingredients that can result in over-drying and irritation. Anti-Blemish Facial Wash is a favorite of those struggling with blemishes, sensitive skin, or breakouts from any cause including hormonal changes. It’s paraben-free too as well.  You can get yours (and other skincare products) for $22 at https://www.belliskincare.com .

 

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How to Make Your Own Natural Face Masks

April 2, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

Buying quality skin care products is expensive. Many popular brands contain unwanted chemical additives and preservatives. This may motivate you to look for at-home alternatives to these products.

If you have a little time and only a few ingredients, you can make face masks at home. These do-it-yourself masks are easy and fun to make, and their benefits to your skin rival those of the most expensive commercial masks. Try some of our easy recipes and see the benefits first hand.

Before using any of these masks, it is best to wash your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser. This allows the mask to penetrate into your pores. After using the masks, rinse your face clean with lukewarm water. Then rinse it with cool water. This closes your pores. Gently pat your face and neck dry.

  1. Banana Facial Mask

To make a banana facial mask, the easiest way is to simply mash up a ripe banana and apply it to your face. This mask is smoothing and moisturizing, providing a fresh faced glow.

If you have a few more ingredients around the house, try mixing a little plain yogurt and honey into your mask. The yogurt adds moisturizing power and the honey naturally fights acne.

  1. Strawberry Mask

Another fresh, seasonal ingredient to mix into your DIY facial mask is the strawberry. Strawberries are naturally very high in Vitamin C. They also contain several beneficial fruit acids to combat skin aging and soothe acne prone skin. Salicylic acid, an ingredient in many over-the-counter acne products, is present in the strawberry.

This exfoliating mask will brighten your skin. Mix a few mashed strawberries with a little lemon juice. Apply gently to your face and neck. After 15 minutes, rinse the mask from your face. This mask works even better if used after exfoliating the skin with a natural scrub such as brown sugar and honey.

  1. Oatmeal Facial Masks

Oatmeal is a proven moisturizing ingredient that soothes the skin. It is used in many commercial lotions and bath products, especially for those with dry, itchy skin. See the benefits of oatmeal for yourself by trying one of these facial masks.

In a blender or food processor, puree a small amount of whole rolled oats with a little milk until the mixture has a soft texture. You can also use cream if your skin is severely dry. Gently smooth this mixture over your face and let it sit for 20 minutes.

For oily skin, mix oatmeal, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Vinegar is an astringent which gently dries the skin and also combats bacteria without being too harsh. The oatmeal will absorb excess oil from your skin.

Let 3 tablespoons of oatmeal soak for a few minutes in ¼ cup hot water. Then add a teaspoon of honey. Blend these ingredients together. Whisk in 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. When the mixture has cooled a bit, gently smooth it over your face and neck. Let it sit for 20 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.

  1. Avocado Masks

Another superfood ingredient that is great for your skin is avocado. Avocado contains high levels of oleic acid, a plant acid that helps your skin retain moisture. Avocado is also a source of antioxidants and Vitamin C. The plant oils in avocado keep your skin soft and supple.

For a moisturizing mask, mix ½ of a mashed ripe avocado with a little plain Greek yogurt. Add a teaspoon of olive oil to make the mask even richer for your skin. Blend well and let it sit on your face for 15 minutes.

Avocado also goes well with oatmeal in another moisturizing mask. Mix ½ cup of mashed ripe avocado with ½ cup of oatmeal. Blend the mixture well and apply to your face and neck.

With only a few simple ingredients from your pantry and from the produce section, you can make easy DIY facial masks for any skin type. Try some of these recipes today and see the benefits for yourself. Alternatively, you can be creative and mix some of these recipes together for your own special touch.

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How Shea Butter Can Help You Achieve Gorgeous Skin

March 19, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Shea butter is a fat extracted from the nut of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), famous for its high fatty acid content, primarily oleic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid. These fatty acids play key roles in managing certain body functions like controlling inflammations, renewing cells, and maintaining vascular health.

 

While it can be eaten and used as a cooking oil as long as it is 100 percent pure and unrefined, shea butter is more popular as an ingredient in beauty products like moisturizers and lotions. This is because shea butter melts at body temperature, making it easier and comfortable to apply, and is also absorbed rapidly by the skin.

 

But apart from these rather simple properties, why is shea butter such a popular ingredient for beauty products, like Skinfood’s range of hand and foot creams, lotions, lip balms, and body oils? Let’s take a look.

 

Shea Butter is a Natural Emollient

What makes the body respond well to shea butter is that its biochemical properties resemble that of the human body’s natural moisturizers produced by the sebaceous glands. Shea butter is also a naturally occurring lipid, making it a natural (and powerful) emollient. You can apply 100 percent pure shea butter onto your skin like a lotion or use products that use it as an ingredient  if you don’t like the slightly smoky, nutty smell of unprocessed shea butter. Either way, shea butter will work wonders to moisturize and soften skin that’s prone to roughness, dryness, and scaling or flaking.

 

Shea Butter can Smooth Out Wrinkles

There are many ways that shea butter can help with healing and preventing the further formation of wrinkles. For one, shea butter forms a protective barrier on the skin, shielding it from elements like pollution, sunlight (shea butter contains low levels of SPF), and harsh winds which can all contribute in the premature development of fine lines and wrinkles. Shea butter also contains high amounts of vitamins A and E; the former aids in faster, more efficient cellular turnover and collagen production, while the latter moisturizes, nourishes, and further protects the skin from both external and internal elements. If the skin is has sufficient collagen and moisture, it is less likely to develop wrinkles and has an easier time to recover from such damage.

 

Because of these properties, shea butter can also be used to minimize the appearance of stretch marks caused by pregnancy. Just smooth liberal amounts of shea butter onto the areas where stretch marks usually appear, like the belly, hips, thighs, and even under the breasts, even before your start to “show.” Applying shea butter will help increase your skin’s elasticity and thus reduce the likelihood of developing deep stretch marks.

 

Shea Butter has Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Raw shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E, anti-inflammatory agents like cinnamic acid, and antimicrobial components like catechins. All of these combined help reduce swelling, redness, and irritations caused by skin conditions like rosacea, dermatitis, and eczema, speed up the healing of wounds, and reduce the appearance of blemishes. And because shea butter is easily absorbed and can penetrate deeper into the skin, its effects can be experienced faster.

 

Additionally, the vitamin content of shea butter can also help with the management and treatment of acne, reducing overall redness and eventual scarring or skin darkening. It is also gentle enough to use on the lips and the delicate area around the eyes, should these areas suffer from inflammation and/or dryness.

 

African women have been using shea butter for various medicinal and personal care purposes as early as the 14th century. This just proves that shea butter is not a fad — it’s an effective and natural ingredient that will help make your skin healthier and look more beautiful than ever. 

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How to Address Signs of Aging

March 12, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Aging is an inevitable natural process, but everyone would like to keep their smooth faces for a longer time. Thanks to science and technology, you can now maintain your good looks well into old age. Of course, you still need to take care of your health since these procedures only reverse the physical aspects of aging. Here are some ways for you to address aging.

 

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are used to smoothen the face and help it regain shape. Parts of the face that sink as you age can be filled so that you look a lot younger. The benefit of this procedure is that it is painless and does not have any downtime. This is because no surgery is involved.

 

Parts of the face that can be rejuvenated using dermal fillers include the nose, lips, cheeks, and chin. The procedure will only take you about 30 minutes, although the actual time would depend on the specific areas being filled. You will have to be put under local anesthesia, and this can be in the form of cream. Then, the dermatologist will administer the treatment using a sterilized needle. You will then be allowed to sit for a while with a cold pack over the treated area.

 

Once the procedure is over, you can go back to your routine immediately without having to wait for recovery.

 

However, the procedure still has some minor side effects. You should expect some redness on the site of the injection. This may be coupled by swelling. These side effects will typically fade within a day or even a few hours. If you fail to follow your dermatologist’s instructions before the day of the filling, you might also experience some bruising. It is important to always get your dermal fillers from a qualified professional.

 

The results of this treatment will last for between 6 months and two years. If you go for permanent fillers, the results can even last for five years.

 

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is meant for people with wrinkles, acne scars, or non-responsive skin, usually resulting from a facelift. It is important to note that the treatment is not recommended for people with acne, dark skin, or stretch marks. Ideally, you should consult your doctor before choosing to go for laser resurfacing.

 

So how does the procedure work?

 

The doctor will direct short light rays to the affected areas of your skin, and this will get rid of the skin cells that are damaged on the surface. The procedure will involve carbon dioxide or erbium lasers. Using erbium laser beams results in fewer side effects. If you have dark skin, you would be better off using these rays. This specific treatment also burns the surrounding skin cells less.

 

Patients can even recover from erbium resurfacing in a week. For CO2 laser beams, the recovery will take up to 2 weeks.

 

This procedure is not free of side effects. Typically, you should expect some bruising, redness, and swelling. These side effects are more pronounced in patients who go for CO2 laser resurfacing.

 

Before going for this procedure, your doctor will consider your medical history and the results you expect. You will also need to avoid drugs that can affect the clotting of blood for at least ten days before the treatment. It is also important to note that smoking can increase the healing period.

 

Facelift

Another sign of aging is the development of loose skin and jowls on the lower part of the face. These problems can be addressed through a surgical procedure known as a facelift. The procedure aims at lifting your facial skin and muscles to make them firmer.

 

If you only have little sagging on the face, you can go for a mini-facelift. This involves smaller incisions, usually above the ear and along the hairline. Mini-facelifts can be performed under local anesthesia, although most doctors choose to go with general anesthesia. This procedure can help you get rid of early signs of aging, and, therefore, reduce the need for a standard procedure in the future.

 

People who are already showing extreme signs of aging around the neck and face can opt for a standard facelift. This procedure is more extensive, and this means you will have to get general anesthesia. Again, the surgeon will have to make incisions along the hairline and other areas on the face. Through these incisions, they can reposition the tissues under this skin and get rid of excess skin.

 

Being a more extensive procedure, a standard facelift will require a lot more recovery time. You will be able to get back to your normal routine after about two weeks, but the side effects will take a whole year to resolve. Your doctor will give you instruction on how to manage your side effects. Following this advice will make sure you don’t take too long to recover.

 

Neck Lift

This procedure is similar to the facelift, except that it is done in the jawline and neck. Neck lifts can get rid of excess fat under the chin, loose skin in the neck and muscle banding. If your face is still in perfect condition, but your neck and lower jaw are starting to show signs of aging, a neck lift can be a good solution.

 

People normally combine neck lifts with procedures such as brow lifts, fat transfer, and eyelid surgery. With advances in technology and medicine, these procedures have grown to be very safe. Like facelifts, this treatment will require your surgeon to make incisions in your skin; then, they will remove excess fat and skin.

 

For a safe procedure, you will have to avoid alcohol, anti-inflammatory drugs, excessively fatty foods, and excess sugar for about ten days before the treatment.

 

Conclusion

These four procedures will help you regain the good looks of your youth. It is important to follow the advice of your doctor, and answer all their questions truthfully. This way, you will get a safe and proper procedure. Since these treatments don’t stop the aging process, you should still take care of your body and drink a lot of water regularly.

 

Andrew Jacono, MD is a renowned plastic surgeon based in New York City. Dr. Jacono has been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has made frequent appearances on Oprah’s Face to Face and Discovery Fit & Health.

 

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