Not So Natural Beauty

Cosmetic Surgery Costs - Weighing The Benefits of Self-Confidence

2008-04-28T07:26:00.000-07:00

By Adam Hefner

Today plastic surgeons offer a variety of procedures to nip, tuck, or otherwise enhance aspects of their clients' appearance. These procedures are often not covered by insurance. Costs vary as greatly as the procedures offered.

"Cosmetic surgery" includes liposuction, rhinoplasty (nose jobs), tummy tucks, breast reduction -- a huge variety of procedures. Beyond the well-known surgeries are many similarly popular procedures such as microdermabrasion, thigh lifts, and cellulite massage treatments.

One of the factors determining the cost of a cosmetic procedure is the location of your physician. For instance, on the East or West Coast, you would pay more for a tummy tuck than in the Midwest, where cosmetic surgery is considerably less expensive than in other parts of the country.

Even in the Midwest, cosmetic surgery is not inexpensive. For example, a tummy tuck in the Midwest would cost an average of $4,000, but in Pennsylvania would cost almost $5,000. In the Midwest, liposuction would cost almost $2,300, but could be $2,750 in Pennsylvania.

Costs also vary from surgeon to surgeon. While a lower fee might stem from a professional's desire to offer affordable procedures, the fee might also reflect lack of experience or lower qualifications. It is important to choose a surgeon who is capable and qualified, rather than looking for the most inexpensive procedure.

The complexity and popularity of a procedure affect its cost. A face-lift or rhinoplasty, for instance, usually costs more than a Botox injection or cellulite massage treatment. It takes a skilled hand to perform a successful facelift, but a Botox injection is much simpler and has fewer potential complications.

Before scheduling plastic surgery, be sure to have an accurate estimate of cost. If you need to finance your procedure, it is important to arrange financing before the surgery date.

Plastic surgery can be expensive, and the price can be greater than the procedure alone. Cosmetic surgery is not without risk. If you decide that benefits outweigh the risks for you, find a competent surgeon and determine beforehand the cost of your enhancement.

To learn much more about the benefits of the cosmetic surgery costs, visit http://www.Cosmetic-Surgery-101.com where you'll find this and much more, including cosmetic surgery financing.

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

Titan Breast Lift - Titan Laser - Non Surgical Breast Enhancement

2008-04-08T13:33:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I am a big fan of the Titan laser. For the first time in my memory real benefits are being seen without invasive surgery. Take a few minutes to enjoy this piece by ezine articles contributor Renee Billancourt.

The Titan Breast Lift procedure refers to the utilization of the Titan Laser to perform a breast lift procedure without surgery. This option could be an alternative for those who want to avoid surgery.

Length and details of the Titan Breast Lift procedure

The procedure works by targeting the upper chest areas for treatment. This regions collagen is heated which causes it to contract and thicken. The Titan Laser creates micro injuries to the dermis layer of the skin which causes new collagen to be created over the next few months. Treatment sessions with the Titan Laser take about 20 minutes to one hour depending on your individual needs.

Risks and/or complications related to the Titan Laser procedure

Very few side effects are experienced from treatment via the Titan Laser. Individuals may encounter a small amount of redness that will fade after an hour or so. Any swelling that occurs should subside within a day.

Long-term results of the Titan Breast Lift procedure

Since the Titan Laser works by stimulating the formation of new collagen, ideal results will take a few months to materialize. While the procedure is very effective it does have limitations. It should be thought more as a competitive alternative to surgery.

How much does a Titan Breast Lift procedure cost?

Costs for the Titan Breast Lift procedure should be similar to other Titan Laser procedures. A Titan Laser Breast Lift procedure averages between $1500 to $2500 per treatment session.

Will my insurance cover a Titan Breast Lift procedure?

This procedure is considered an elective procedure, insurance typically will not cover the operation.

Read more about the Titan Non Surgical Breast Lift Procedure. Renee Billancourt is a contributing writer at Houston Medical Center

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

How to Make a Great All Natural Body Scrub

2008-04-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

I will give you my favorite recipe for all natural body scrub, the kind you pay $20 or more for at Origins or Bath & Body.

This will cost you about $1 per "recipe."

You need:

Olive Oil

Honey

Sugar

and either your favorite essential oil or extract (like vanilla) for scent.

Mix 1/4 cup Olive Oil

1/3 cup honey

and 1/2 cup table sugar together.

Then if the mixture is too runny you can add more sugar a tablespoon at a time until you get a nice consistency.

You can leave it unscented, or add one teaspoon of extract or ONE drop of essential oil at a time until you get the scent you like.

What does it do?

Olive Oil--moisturizes naturally

Honey--enzymes provide better exfoliation

Sugar--exfoliates (you may also use salt--table or sea--salt provides a stronger exfoliation)

Scent--makes you feel good

Some suggested scents:

Vanilla Extract--soothing

Orange Extract--refreshing, wakes you up

Peppermint Extract--invigorating, this also tingles sometimes, for those times orange isn't strong enough

Lavender Essential Oil--calming, great for the shower right before bed

Rose Essential Oil--calms you, clears your head

Sandalwood Essential Oil--stimulates creativity

Cinnamon or Ginger Essential Oils--stimulate brain function, increase appetite

The ingredients wash away down the drain with no problem.

The oil can make the tub slick, so take this into account when using it.

An allergic reaction would be INCREDIBLY rare, but to test, put a small circle of product on your inner arm,

leave for an hour and wash off with soap and water. If there is no reaction in 24 hours you will be fine.

You can make this as a gift as well. My family jumps at the homemade scrubs I make. Just place the scrub

in a quilted jelly jar and make a pretty label for the top. Mine say:

ALL NATURAL VANILLA BODY SCRUB

contains only:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Pure Clover Honey

Simple Sugar

Pure Vanilla Extract

patch test 24 hrs. before first use

by labeling it this way, I make common ingredients sound special.

HDTV's Effect on Cosmetic Surgery

2008-03-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

Today, enjoy this piece by ezine articles expert author A. Aaronson

If you've ever gawked at a HDTV (High-Definition Television) you've noticed how blue the ocean looks, how fluffy a puppy is, and how those celebrities aren't as flawless looking as you once thought they were. What happened? Hollywood celebrities could hide behind lighting, makeup, and camera tricks before, but with the advent of high-definition, all of those little imperfections are clearly visible. Pimples, cellulite, that birthmark that was once camouflaged by a slightly blurry picture-suddenly celebrities are shockingly real.

At first this might seem like a nice change of pace. No more will the average person compare himself to the fantasies that parade around the television. But Tinsel Town wasn't quite ready to give up the illusion. Instead of embracing and accepting a more natural beauty, stars are attempting to live up to their idealistic images, flocking to the cosmetic surgeon's office for more nips and tucks.

Another consequence of HDTV is that celebrities who once touted to never have gone under the knife-well, we now know better. Scars and overly tight skin are giving away their most well kept secrets.

But how will this affect the rest of us? For starters, it seems that the trend to glorify Hollywood will not dissipate anytime soon. In fact, it may increase the pressure on society to achieve and maintain a youthful, beautiful appearance. After all, if they can still look flawless on that crystal clear picture, why can't the average person?

The bright side of the critical eye of HDTV is that it might propel people toward subtle, maintenance procedures like fillers and laser peels. These fast and affordable treatments can perk up your skin and remove fine lines before they become too noticeable. Rather than going to extremes, it seems as if people are opting for those kinds of procedures that are more practical for an average person. There is little recovery time and the results are instant, but not enough for someone to point out where and what was done. So instead of trying to turn back the clock fifteen years with a full facelift in order to compete with those glowing young starlets, people are choosing the procedures with more natural results.

Maintaining a natural appearance is the key to looking fabulous in life or on HDTV. Now it is becoming more favorable to look your own age--but great, rather than the former artificial attempts to shave off decades from your face and body.

So while HDTV may not end the Hollywood glamour parade, it certainly might help people make conservative, but impactful cosmetic surgery decisions. And even if someone looks perfect on high-definition, remember how skilled some surgeons are. It's still a fantasy world and society should not have to feel forced to compete with. New makeup techniques like airbrushing and lighting still improves people's appearance on the camera. Although cosmetic procedures may improve your confidence, but be realistic about your expectations. It is better to look as good as you possibly can than to try to look as good as someone else does on the television.

Not only women but men are also getting nips and tucks from Dallas cosmetic surgery. You can comfortably face the HDTV without hiding anything. For details about surgery, before and after photos and financing options, you can visit at http://www.usaplasticsurgery.com/

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

Escape the Benzoyl Peroxide Trap Part I

2008-03-16T08:23:00.000-07:00

Many acne sufferers face a common problem. It is the unending circle of breakouts, acne remedies, dry skin and then more breakouts. In my experience, this is the most common reason people with acne eventually turn from OTC products to more expensive specialty acne treatment systems like Proactiv. They are looking for an answer to their acne that does not simply cause another problem, like overly dry and itchy skin. For many people with acne this is what I call "the benzoyl peroxide trap."

Benzoyl peroxide is a very effective acne treatment for all but extreme cases of cystic acne or roseaca; but, it can also be very drying to all but the oiliest of skins.* Most acne sufferers are simply plagued by acne vulgaris, a surface condition that is treatable with topical remedies. The most common over the counter remedies contain a 5 to 10% concentration of the active ingredient benzoyl peroxide.

Benzoyl peroxide works well in the correct concentration. Unfortunately, modern consumers have a "maximum strength" mentality. We don't want 325mg of aspirin when we can get 500mg for just a few cents more. We never consider the fact that 325mg will cure our headache just as well, just as quickly and do it more safely. This is so prevalent that in many cases you cannot find regular strength products on the shelves anymore. They simply do not sell; therefore, they are not profitable and some companies just don't make them.

When it comes to acne, we all want it gone as quickly as possible, so we buy maximum strength products. The problem with this is that in most cases it is overkill. Why swat a fly with a flyswatter when it will be just as dead if we use a sledgehammer? Because the sledgehammer will do some pretty significant damage to the table the fly landed on. Similarly, when we use too strong a concentration of benzoyl peroxide, we may get rid of the zit quickly, but the rest of the skin suffers. Thus, the benzoyl peroxide trap. We have acne, we treat the acne with maximum strength product, the pimples clear up, then the skin dries out and becomes uncomfortable, we stop using the acne product, and the pimples come back. It's an endless circle, unless . . .

Escape the Benzoyl Peroxide Trap Part II

2008-03-16T07:01:00.001-07:00

Lines like Proactiv have a secret weapon in their medicated product. They still use benzoyl peroxide, but they have a 2.5% concentration. What you say? Less active ingredient instead of more?!? Yes, less active ingredient. Used daily, a 2.5% concentration of benzoyl peroxide is very effective against acne, without overdrying the skin like typical over the counter remedies. These companies don't announce the fact that their product contains less active ingredient, but what they do announce is how effective they are-and they are effective, as evidenced by the millions of dedicated consumers purchasing (and more importantly repurchasing) these products every day.

My recommendation:

Now, if you want to purchase Proactiv or a similar line, that's fine. They are quality products that work. But this is the regimen I recommend to my acne clients who prefer the convenience and price point of over the counter products.

1) Cleanse-use the mildest cleanser that gets the job done for you. Most people can use glycerin soap with good results. There are several quality brands out there. If you wear heavy makeup I recommend you use a water rinseable cold cream.

2) Tone-those clients who use a glycerin soap to cleanse may not even need this step if they rinse thoroughly. For my clients who use water rinseable cold cream, I recommend they find an alcohol-free toner that they like. Note that I say toner here and not astringent. Astringents can strip the skin of its acid mantle, causing the pores to overreact and make even more oil, which just exacerbates the problem.

3) Treat-apply a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide product to the affected areas only. Neutrogena's On-The-Spot Acne Treatment is an example of an over the counter 2.5% product. If, after time, your skin starts to feel dry, you can begin to apply the treatment product only before going to bed.

4) Protect-in the morning only and after your treatment product is thoroughly dry, apply a light layer of non-comedogenic sunscreen with an SPF of 15. Make sure your products have dried completely before applying makeup.

Follow this regimen twice a day for best results.

Note: it doesn't hurt to keep a small tube of 5 or 10% benzoyl product available. Get the smallest tube you can and use it to dot on the occasional particularly troublesome pimple. Do not use over large areas of the face, just dot it on when you really need intervention.

* Cystic acne and roseaca are both conditions best treated by a doctor. To put it in simple terms, cystic acne is a form of acne characterized by excessively oily skin, blackheads, whiteheads and cysts-pimple like bumps under the skin that do not have any kind of "head" on them, meaning they do not vent to the outside. Roseaca often looks like a bad case of acne, but you may notice that while whiteheads may appear, few if any blackheads are present and the skin often looks extremely flushed. In both cases a doctor's intervention is the best route to clearer skin.

The Box Says NOT to Wash My Hair Before Coloring. Will My Styling Products Affect My Results?

2008-03-10T13:20:00.000-07:00

Normal product use won't cause a problem. If you have a lot of buildup you should wash and completely dry your hair before coloring. They do not want you putting the color on wet hair as you dilute the product by doing so.

For the most part, one or two days worth of product can simply be brushed out before applying the color. But if you use many products, then reapply before washing for several days, you should go ahead and wash it. Just make sure it is dry before applying the color.

Help! I Ruined My Hair. How Can I Make it Grow FAST?!?

2008-02-27T13:47:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, nothing makes your hair grow faster. However, good nutrition and overall good health will make your hair grow strong, which can make it seem like it is growing faster.

Make sure you are getting your share of daily nutrients, including essential fatty acids, for strong shiny hair from the start. Care for it with gentle products and avoid chemical processes if you can. This will ensure your hair grows healthy, and gains length as quickly as is possible for you.

About Laser Hair Removal

2007-11-07T12:54:00.000-08:00

Yet another great question from Yahoo! Answers.

For laser hair removal you will generally need 4-6 treatments to clear the area, with the occasional touch up treatment afterward.

You will need to consult with a provider in your area for costs, as these vary greatly from region to region.

It feels like someone snapping a rubber band against your skin, but is generally quite tolerable. Remember though everyone's pain threshold is different. You may find it very painful or barely noticeable.

There is often a slight smell of burning hair, nothing bad though.

You will need to shave just before your treatment. The hair will push its way out of the follicle for about two weeks afterward. You will need to shave it off as usual during this time, but the texture of the hair will be stiffer, and you will find you go through razors about twice as quickly as usual.

This treatment works best on fair skinned people with dark hair. The laser seeks out the pigment in the root, which is why darker skinned and/or lighter haired clients do not tend to see as good a result right away. They may need more treatments.

You can have this done on any area you have unwanted hair.

There is little to no downtime. Most people return to normal activities right away.

What happens when you get waxed, and does it hurt?

2007-10-24T07:36:00.000-07:00

This is another great question from Yahoo! answers . . .

The tech will clean and powder the area, apply wax in the direction of the hair growth and pull quickly in the opposite direction. The wax will pull the hair out by the roots. Any hairs that remain after waxing are tweezed.

Yes, it hurts, especially at first. The root ball is bigger than the follicle, thus it takes force and a little pain to get it out. Of course one person's pain threshold is different than the next, it may not bother you at all.

As you have it done again and again though, the skin tends to let the root ball go more easily. Also the more you have this done, the less often you will have to. The hair will grow back finer, and the repeated damage will cause some of the follicles to stop producing period.

Don't have this done while on antibiotics or aspirin therapy or just before or on your period. You are more likely to bleed. It will also hurt more around your period.

For best results and to prevent ingrown hairs, exfoliate well the first few days after having this done.

PS~ if you are looking at a Brazillian wax, expect to have to get into some embarrassing and not so comfy positions to get the result you are looking for.

How to Do the Smokey Eye

2007-10-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

Someone recently asked the question on how to do this on Yahoo! answers. Since as a makeup artist I get this question a lot, I thought I would post my answer here as well.

You will need:
neutral shadow
very dark shadow
very dark eyeliner
very dark mascara
small angled shadow brush
medium shadow blending brush

Cover your eye from lashes to brow with a neutral shadow. This is as much to make your dark "smoky" color blend well as to put color there. It works best if you use a soft "fleshy" color.

Then take black or dark brown shadow (as dark as you are comfortable with-I use black on my clients) and scrape a little off the cake onto a paper plate. Shadow works better for me powdered, and I need less time to get the same result.

Get a little of the dark shadow on the small angled brush. work it along your lashes from the inside to the outside corner. Make a line that starts very small, and expands to SLIGHTLY wider at the outside corner of the eye.

Next, reload your small angled brush and starting at the outside corner make a line of dark shadow that goes back to the inside of the eye. (I usually place this line just above where the client's natural crease is. You will have to use a little creative license here, as I do some clients by putting the color right at the crease. Also, depending on the shape of the eye, I may bring this line all the way to the inner corner or I may stop at the inside of the iris.)

Then you will take the blending brush and gently blend the darker color from the outside corner in. The secret to this look is not being afraid of using the dark color AND blend, blend, blend.

As you are blending, you will probably want to add a little more dark color to the outside corner. Remember add color a little at a time and blend from the outside color in.

Once you have your shadow just like you want it, apply your eyeliner. This looks best with the eyeliner placed so close to the upper lashes that it is almost IN the upper lashes. Either apply no liner below or just a little to the outside corner. I usually do use JUST A LITTLE, on the lower outside corner.

Then (if needed) curl the lashes and add mascara.

This just takes the right tools and some practice. Take a little time one day when you have time to wash up and start again to practice, and you will be doing this look on your own and perfectly in no time.

Good Luck!

Product Review--The Micropeel Plus

2007-09-26T10:08:00.000-07:00

I have experienced nothing quite like the shedding of my facial skin shortly after a Micropeel Plus.

In the past I had gotten micropeels from the Biomedic company and given by a medical esthetician in a doctor's office. This time same esthetician and office--different peel.

Oh my the difference!

Micropeels helped calm my acne by causing faster cell turnover and using complementary products to maintain at home. The Micropeel Plus caused the skin on my entire face to shed as though I was a lizard. The most embarrassing thing was that it also caused me to get a cold sore, something that I hate dealing with. In addition, I guess cell turnover is best for me naturally on my cheeks and forehead and is slowest around my mouth and chin. On my cheeks and forehead the peeling was quick, easy and barely noticeable. The effect of the micropeel plus on my mouth and chin was that my skin shed there in sheets. It also turned brown and puckered up before peeling, so I quite literally looked like the bearded lady in the circus sideshow for a couple of days before it finally shed. You cannot peel it or pick at it yourself or you risk scarring, so I just had to live with it.

The eventual effect of the peel was what I was looking for. Four of these treatments and my skin looked brighter, younger and the minor acne scarring I have was less apparent. So in the end the treatments gave me exactly the results they promised.

After this series I discussed the treatments with my esthetician. (Yes, even estheticians have estheticians, just as your doctor has his own doctor and your lawyer should never be foolish enough to represent himself if he has legal trouble.) We determined together that the Micropeel Plus, while giving me the results I was looking for, was too harsh for my skin at that time and I was spending more time looking uglier, in my quest to look better, than I should have been. It has been nearly five years, and I am almost ready to get some kind of peel again. If I choose Micropeel or Micropeel Plus I will post photos here.

Biomedic
skin care
anti-aging

Why Do We Age? Blame the Telomeres

2007-09-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

Why do we age? Because each and every one of our cells has a definite capability for reproducing itself-but only a certain number of times. The cells all have an "end" or a "tail," the length of which determines how many times that cell can effectively reproduce itself. The shorter the tail, the fewer times it will reproduce effectively.

As the cell reproduces itself, the tail shrinks. Once it gets to be too short, the cell can no longer reproduce and eventually it dies. These shrinking tails-known as telomeres-are the reason we age. Fast and efficient cell reproduction happens frequently when we are young. The older we are, the shorter those tails are resulting in slower and less efficient cell reproduction and eventually cell death.

Nearly every cell in the body is governed this way. This is why we age. But there is hope, found in the two exceptions to this shortening telomere rule. germ (sex) cells and cancer cells. Strange to find that we might find the answer to aging in cancer cells isn't it?

Germ and cancer cells produce an enzyme called telomerase. This enzyme prevents the telomere from shortening. Thus, in theory, cancer and sex cells can divide an infinite amount of times. This is good for making babies, bad if you are facing cancer, good if you are looking for the answer to aging and the diseases of old age.

Scientists are looking at ways to take advantage of the telomerase enzyme. Can we reproduce it? Can we find a way to distribute it effectively to all the cells of the body? Can we eventually ward off age and disease with a telomerase enzyme shot, pill or cream? Will the enzyme work effectively on us if it is introduced from the outside rather than created by our own bodies? Will it really work effectively on all the cells?

Only time and science can tell; but, if effective therapies are developed based on telomere research, we may find that we can shut down our biological clock. Grow to be 22 and begin therapy. Never age another day. Never face the diseases of aging. Never watch the wrinkles form. I don't know if I want to see this and I don't know if I don't.

What I do know is science is chasing it, and if we catch it, I'll have no choice.

anti-aging

Smart Lipo

2007-09-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been hearing a lot about the Smart Lipo procedure. This procedure seems to have some major improvements over regular lipo, especially for small areas. It uses a laser to dissolve fat cells, and does far less damage to the surrounding tissue than traditional liposuction.

Here are some benefits:

smaller incisions
shorter surgery time (this is sometimes called the 'Lunchtime Lipo' procedure)
faster recovery time
some clients report a lessening of the look of cellulite as well
skin tightening caused by renewed collagen growth--major benefit
costs are slightly higher, but still comparable to traditional lipo

The drawbacks (other than I don't have the money in petty cash):

A limited number of doctors/facilities offer the procedure
It is still surgery, there will be risks, some downtime, and aftercare needed

Check out some PHOTOS HERE (warning, page contains some minor nudity in a clinical setting).

Did You Know

2007-08-31T09:59:00.000-07:00

One of the things that make your skin appear older is the lack of light reflecting from it.

When you are young, the cells of the epidermis naturally turn over in 28 days or less. This means, from the formation of the cell until it reaches the stage in which it naturally flakes off, the entire process lasts about 28 days.

As we age that same process can grow to take sixty days or more. So as we age the outer layer of cells is actually older. The cells on the outermost layer of the skin become flat and scaly. Sexy huh?

The plump, young cells beneath those older outer cells reflect light better than the scaly cells on the outside.

The short term solution to this problem is to force cell turnover through exfoliation. This is where procedures like microdermabrasion and micropeels come in. They force a faster and deeper exfoliation than regular cleansing alone. Once you have had a series of these procedures you may find that you do indeed look younger, though you can't quite put your finger on exactly why. Your skin is reflecting light better.

Of course, this can be overdone. Have you ever watched a big awards show and wondered quizzically about all the super shiny-faced celebs? Their mistake is having these procedures done too often, too close to show time.

If you want to look your best for a special event, you can use microdermabrasion or micropeels to soften the look of fine lines and force the “glow” of youth back into your skin. The trick is to start three to six months ahead and have your last treatment one to two full weeks, not days, before the big event. Consistent exfoliation will cause your skin cells to continue to turn over, but those extra days before the event will be enough time to turn that waxy shine into a naturally healthy, youthful glow.

Beautiful Wishes~Marie

skin care

Consistency is the Key

2007-08-27T10:08:00.001-07:00

When it comes to skincare and the overall health of your skin I have this to say--consistency is key. Whether you are using an over the counter product to combat acne, or doing your follow up care after a major facelift, the most important thing you can do is be consistent.

Acne products, sunscreens, antibiotics--heck incredibly expensive "skin care vitamins" only have a chance to work if you use them.

So, whether you are battling acne or just trying to fend off premature wrinkles, make a plan (preferably with your esthetician or dermatologist) and stick to it. If you want your products to work, you must be religious about using the correct amount of the product the prescribed number of times per day.

To Your Health~Marie

Whiten Your Teeth For a Youthful Smile

2007-08-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

I think one of the most effective ways to make yourself look younger is to have a nice smile and use it. Do you notice how you enjoy being around people who smile? That enjoyment is part of our natural tendency to want to associate ourselves with positive people. When you have a nice white smile you feel more confident. Nothing says "I don't take care of myself" like bad teeth. People with straight, white teeth look like they take the time to care for all aspects of their personal health.

You don't have to have perfect teeth to improve your smile. The most important thing is that you have all of them. If there is an unnatural gap in your smile, take the time to see a dentist and have that tooth replaced. Most dental plans will pay at least some portion of the replacemet of a permanently lost tooth.

With all the whitening options available to you, you should be able to find a treatment that works with your lifestyle. If you have a real need to fix up those choppers NOW, give a call to your dentist or your local BriteSmile provider. They have a process that will brighten up your smile in only a couple of hours. I have personally used BriteSmile and I have to say that it is one of the fastest and economical ways to make a huge difference in your appearance.

Keep Smiling! Marie

Which Will Benefit You More, Microdermabrasion or Micropeels?

2007-08-22T06:18:00.000-07:00

In effect, microdermabrasion and micropeels accomplish the same thing. They exfoliate. Both processes cause a sudden increase in cell turnover which forces your skin to do something it would not otherwise do—show newer, fresher skin cells faster. This is the reason regular microdermabrasion or micropeel treatments can help you look younger longer and stave off more radical treatments.

If you are considering a microdermabrasion or micropeel, there are factors you need to consider before deciding which is right for you. These are especially important if you are seeing an esthetician in a spa, or if you are going to do it yourself at home, as these situations tend to give the client more independence in making the choice than seeing a medical esthetician in a doctor’s office.

Get out a pen and paper and answer the following questions.

First, let’s ask a question most people don’t bother with until after everything else is said and done, but is probably more important than 90% of the other questions out there. Will you be consistent and complete in your follow-up care? You know yourself better than anyone, and you need to know that you will keep up the steps of care that are needed after such a process. If you are certain you will, read on. If you are not sure or pretty certain you won’t, save yourself some time, money and disappointment and put these procedures off until you know you will be able to give yourself consistent and proper post procedure care. You will not be happy with the results of your treatments if you do not take steps every day to maintain them.

You will definitely take care of yourself afterward? Good, let’s move on . . .

1) What are your reasons for wanting micropeel or microdermabrasion treatments? Do you want to soften fine lines? Are you trying to improve the overall color of your skin? Do you want to improve acne? These are all valid reasons for trying these methods.

2) What is the condition of your skin? Is it dry and flaky? Oily and/or acne prone? Neither?

3) What is your comfort level with each process? Does the idea of gritty crystals on your face make you cringe? Are you frightened of even the smallest stinging sensation on your face?

Now, let’s check your answers and decide which procedure is better for you.

1) If you wish to soften fine lines or improve the overall color of your skin, either procedure will work. If you want to improve the look of acne, the antiseptic nature of micropeels have a distinct advantage. In addition, microdermabrasion should never be used on severe acne, as it can actually spread the infection.*

2) Skin that is normal to dry should respond well to either treatment. Especially dry skin may benefit more from the physical exfoliation of microdermabrasion, simply because it gives the user a little more control than the acid in a micropeel. Oily and acne skins tend to respond better to the chemical exfoliation of a micropeel.

3) Microdermabrasion is going to feel like rubbing sand on your face. If you are especially sensitive, it may feel like sanding your face. While doing a microdermabrasion, the exfoliation is immediate and the results become visible over the next few days. With manual microdermabrasion (rather than a professional machine--all home microdermabrasion applies here) you can make the pressure as light and gentle as you like, though more pressure is going to yield more results.

A micropeel will probably give you a mild stinging sensation that may worsen as the peel stays on longer and does its work. A micropeel is going to have minimal exfoliation right away, but your skin will peel (sometimes dramatically) over the next week or so, exposing the fresh new skin underneath.

Once you have weighed the answers to these questions, you should have a pretty good idea which procedure is right for you. Keep in mind, you will probably need several treatments of either process to produce the desired result. If you are still not sure which treatment suits you better, make an appointment for a consultation with your esthetician or dermatologist. The small fee they charge you will pay for itself in improved results. And as always, consistency in your post procedure care is of the utmost importance in making your results last and the overall health of your skin.

* Severe acne should always be treated by a doctor.

How to Evacuate (Pop) a Pimple

2007-08-19T05:08:00.000-07:00

Can't I just POP this zit?

OK, I know your mother has told you not to do it. But anyone who has ever had a professional facial knows the pros do it all the time. So, this is HOW to do it as safely as possible.

Keep in mind these instructions are for that occasional pimple that just pops up on you. If you constantly have a face full of pimples, you may have a more severe skin condition (like acne rosacea) or a hormone disorder. In this case a trip to the doctor is in order.

First of all, NEVER pick at a pimple. If it doesn't have a whitehead on it you will do damage to your skin and probably won't get anything out of it anyway. If you are desperate to get rid of this, see your dermatologist for a cortisone shot. Pricey, but effective and fast.

If on the other hand you have a whitehead, even a small one, you can probably "pop" it safely.

Here's how--

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.

2. Take a very warm washcloth and hold it over the zit for about 60 seconds.

3. Put some astringent (like Sea Breeze) on two cotton balls.

4. Hold the cotton balls over your index fingers. Place your fingers on either side of the pimple and use a gentle rolling motion to squeeze out the pus. This should feel like you are getting under the zit and gently forcing the liquid out the top. (Note: if you are squeezing so hard it hurts the skin around the bump-stop, it's not ready.)

5. Continue to squeeze until clear water or blood (no pus) comes out.

6. With a fresh cotton ball apply more astringent, then dot on a benzoyl peroxide product (like Clearasil) to prevent infection and speed healing.

Television Makeover Shows

2007-08-07T10:42:00.000-07:00

I am not against or for television makeover shows. Personally I watch them if I have time for TV and there is nothing more interesting on, but I do not schedule time out of my day for them.

Something that strikes me about these shows is they never seem to address the physical pain of cosmetic procedures. They just skim over it. Believe me, there is pain.

From the simplest microdermabrasion to the full body workover there is at least some amount of discomfort. Very few people get over their procedures in the short amout of time shown by television. Even a shot of Botox feels like a beesting. A breast augmentation makes you bruised and sore and leaves some women feeling like they can't catch their breath. Liposuction--well, you just feel bad. Bad.

When going in to talk to your doctor about your procedures, make sure you discuss fully with your doctor what pain you may feel and what options you have for controlling it if needed. Even if you are only going in for a minor procedure, you owe it to yourself to know completely what it is you are in for.

What Can I Do About Wrinkles?

2007-07-11T08:21:00.000-07:00

Ok, the question is, do you have wrinkles or fine lines?

If you have fine lines, good skin care, with microdermabrasion performed by an esthetician should help immensely.

Microdermabrasion treatments run about $100.

If you have wrinkles, true improvement can only be had with Botox, fillers, or--worst case scenario--a facelift.

Botox—paralyzes the muscle, greatly improving the wrinkles between brows, on the corners of the eyes, and on the forehead. It runs anywhere from $250-$1000 and must be repeated every 2-6 months.

Fillers—like collagen, Restylane and Juvederm, fill in the wrinkle from the inside. They are great for smile and marionette lines, as well as crow's feet. Treatments run anywhere from $500-$2500 depending on the product of choice, and must be repeated every 6 weeks to a year.

Facelifts—lift the skin and underlying muscle tissue surgically. They are generally the last choice because they are invasive surgery and you will need extended time off work and other activities to recover. Facelifts make a huge difference for excessively sagging skin, and a skin resurfacing, like dermabrasion or a chemical peel, are usually recommended to provide the best results.

Facelifts run anywhere from $8,000 to $25,000 or more depending on your doctor, location and how extensive the work to be done is.

In all cases, good daily skincare and daily sunscreen use is essential.

Titan vs. Thermage

2007-07-03T08:17:00.000-07:00

Today's topic is Titan skin tightening versus Thermage skin tightening.

From what I have been able to find out through my research, both procedures work, with limited results. The best use of both seems to be in holding off the need for a facelift for a few years.

Titan is a procedure where an infrared laser is used to tighten the skin. Titan can be used on the face or other body areas. A Titan procedure is usually fairly quick and most pain can be controlled with OTC medication. There is virtually no downtime. Some results are usually seen quickly with continuing improvement over a few months. For best results though, 4-6 procedures may be required.

Thermage is a procedure where radio waves are used to tighten the skin. Like Titan, Thermage can be used on the facr or other body areas. A thermage procedure is also fairly quick, but seems to take more time than Titan. Once again there is virtually no downtime. From my own research, the pain seems to be a little worse than with the Titan procedure, and some clients need a mild sedation. Some results may be immediate, but it takes 2-6 months to see the final result. Proponents of Thermage claim fewer procedures are necessary than with Titan or other laser procedures, but more than one procedure is still normally required for the best results.

Both procedures claim to cause you to regrow your own natural collagen.

Keep in mind:

results depend greatly on your skin, the damage already done and your post procedure care.

costs vary greatly from area to area, procedure to procedure and doctor to doctor, do your research

cheapest is rarely, no probably never, best

Science in the Background

2007-06-29T07:38:00.000-07:00

While the gorgeous faces of the ever younger fashion models find their way to the covers of more and more magazines, science waits and works, searches and discovers. Soon the eyes of a twenty something college co-ed will be compared to those of a forty something mom of two, and the differences will show in the knowledge shining through them, rather than in the crow's feet surrounding them. Before long, a concoction you purchase at the drug store to soften your smile lines will actually deliver more than the fabled "hope in a jar." Come with me while I discover tomorrow's not so natural beauty.