Dermal Fillers - Radiesse

Radiesse is not a hyaluronic acid dermal filler like Restylane or Juvederm, but is a synthetic product composed of very tiny microspheres of calcium hydroxyl apatite (CaHA), the primary mineral element of bones and teeth. It is said that, "these particles form a scaffold through which your body's own collagen grows, thereby producing long-term results." How long? The effects are reported to last from one to two years, thereby providing recipients with longer lasting facial corrections. This scaffolding effect is used primarily for face shaping and contouring, but has also shown very promising results for nose reshaping. Radiesse is a popular dermal filler with a lengthy safety track record. It's versatility and effectiveness has resulted in a high patient satisfaction profile.

Note: Radiesse is not recommended for use in the lips.

Can dermal filler injections be reversed?

Great question. Hyaluronidase is a product that is used to correct, or reverse, the effects of a hyaluronic acid dermal filler, such as Restylane and Juvederm should it be necessary. Hyaluronidase is FDA approved and made up of enzymes that will rapidly break down and decompose hyaluronic acid. It is important to note that it does not correct or have any effect on semi-permanent or permanent fillers, which are generally not recommended.

How much does Juvederm cost?

Juvederm, as all dermal fillers, is sold by the syringe and ranges from $450 to $900. Why such a difference in price for the same product? Geography. The top end prices are charged in high profile cities, such as Los Angeles, New York and Miami. The lower prices are paid in middle America and throughout smaller cities and towns across the country. It is reasonable to expect to buy more than one syringe, but it really depends on how much work needs to be done and what results are desired. Most treatment centers will discuss a discount the second syringe. A deal on dermal fillers? Sure, why not?

The most important decision is choosing the right physician who will inject the product properly to achieve the best possible results. As with any medical procedure, it is critical to check the physician's credentials, view a selection of before and after pictures of previous clients, and make sure a good rapport is established. Take the time during the consultation to have a clear and healthy discussion about your expectations to make sure you are both on the same page.

Note: It is a very good idea to bring a photo of yourself taken prior to the aging process to help record your natural facial alignment.

Dermal Fillers - Restylane vs Juvederm

According to the experts, Restylane and Juvederm rank well with one another. Is one better than the other? No. The choice of which product to use is better left to the professionals and greatly depends on the task at hand. Both dermal fillers are hyaluronc acid products that effectively fill in facial lines and wrinkles.

Restylane (Medicis) is a gel-like product that is thicker than Juvederm (Allergan) and may treat deeper lines more efficiently. Restylane is used for creating a fuller face because of its ability to plump the skin. Once 'molded' it tends to stay in place and not travel into other areas.

Juvederm, on the other hand, is a more syrup-like substance and produces smoother lines without too much manipulation, and as a result, may be better around the lips and mouth area. Juvederm produces less bruising. Both last for just under a year and can correct most of the issues around an aging face.

Spa Sweepstakes - Canadians only, eh!

Fairmont Royal York (Toronto) and the Elmwood Spa
Luxury Weekend and Spa Indulgence Contest
Grand Prize: Complimentary hotel accommodations for two nights, for two (2) in a Fairmont Signature Suite at The Fairmont Royal York, including a dinner for two (2) in their premier dining room EPIC (valid until December 30, 2009). Prize also includes two (2) spa packages at the Elmwood Spa located at 18 Elm Street, Toronto (also valid until December 30, 2008). Spa packages to be redeemed by the winner and a friend consist of Aromatherapy Massages, Essential Pedicures and Water Therapies. The total approximate retail value of this prize package is $1400.00 Cdn.

Spa Sweepstakes - Woman's Day Magazine

Red Mountain Resort & Spa, St. George, Utah
Enter by June 17, 2009
Grand Prize: One lucky winner will receive a four-day, three-night adventure spa vacation for two. The prize includes one Sagestone Spa & Salon treatment per person during the entire stay; three meals daily; morning guided hikes and unlimited fitness classes; healthy life classes and events at the Wellness Center; personal discovery activities such as meditation hikes, fire ceremonies, tai chi on the rocks and more; Eat Well, Feel Well demonstrations; and access to the indoor and seasonal outdoor pools, bicycles, walking trails, and strength and cardio studios.

The Red Mountain Resort & Spa will also provide courtesy roundtrip shuttle transportation from the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport or the St. George Airport to Red Mountain Resort & Spa. Red Mountain is located a scenic 90-minute drive northeast of Las Vegas. Approx. retail value $2700.

Spa Week - "The Ultimate Honeymoon Giveaway"

Spa Week wants you to know about their latest promotion. "Even in the best of economic climates planning a wedding and the subsequent honeymoon can be costly and stressful for any couple. SpaWeek.com, WeddingChannel.com and The Fairmont Orchid in Hawaii have teamed up to eliminate this pressure and make one lucky couple’s dream honeymoon a reality. During the months of May and June, visitors to SpaWeek.com (that are planning a wedding) can enter for a chance to win a 7-day honeymoon at the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii. This AAA Four-Diamond Resort is located on the alluring and exotic Kohala Coast of Hawaii's Big Island and has been revered as one the Greatest Hotels in the World by Travel + Leisure. The Giveaway, valued at over $8,000, has it all: Gold Floor accommodations, a romantic beachside dinner, spa treatments and more." If you are planning a wedding . . . Aloha!

Pure Skin BrowTox Wrinkle Relaxer

This is an interesting cosmeceutical serum offering relaxing properties to muscles, which translates to wrinkles with less depth. It contains Argireline®, also known as acetyl hexapeptide-3. This peptide has gained a reputation for triggering muscles to relax making it an excellent ingredient for smoothing out those lines around the eyes, the forehead, or wherever your expressions have created wrinkles. It gives an immediate effect that is cumulative with continual use. The formula combines the peptide with Curare Extract, known for its muscle relaxing properties and intensified action. It does not inhibit the muscle from functioning, but makes the contractions less severe.

There are some other great ingredients in this serum. The formula contains hyaluronic acid, an incredible hydrator and collagen protector, along with an extract from the mushroom family (Beta glucan) used to boost dermal hydration and reinforce the skin's defense. These ingredients ensure that the skin's hydration is secure. It's important to remember that hydration is one of the first essentials lost in the skin, and this loss causes degradation of the skin and its defense. Galangal root is present to help firm and tone the skin while complementing the other active ingredients.

This product is an easy to use serum on clean skin. Simply apply it on areas of concern and follow with your cream. Use it twice a day for the first month and then maintain your results by using it once a day. Hmm, . . . maybe that injection can be put off for a bit. You will be impressed.

Dermed Anti-Oxidant Rich Cream

DerMed is known for its high quality cosmeceutical ingredients. This cream is a great product for preparing the skin’s defence before a medical procedure, or for expediting the healing process after a procedure. Its focus boosts the anti-oxidant arsenal in the skin by helping the skin defend itself against free radical damage and repair damage that has been caused. Whenever the skin is traumatized in any manner, free radical activity is promoted, resulting in cellular damage and aging or degradation of the skin. Not exactly a desired effect, particularly after undergoing cosmetic enhancement surgery to improve one's appearance. Sun damage is another example of trauma that negatively affects the skin.

The active ingredients in this cream offering anti-oxidant properties are extracts from Black Tundra Moss, and of course, Vitamin E. The Vitamin A promotes new, healthier cell renewal and has receptor sites on almost all of your body cells, which means it is well received and utilized in cellular functions. The allantoin and lecithin are anti-inflammatory ingredients that minimize any potential irritation to the actives, allowing better reception and results. Hyanluronic Acide has been included in this skin boosting cream to control the dehydrating properties Retinol (Vitamin A) sometimes causes. All in all, Dermed has offered a cosmeceutical cream that is one to seriously consider.

Dermal Fillers

Injectable dermal fillers such as Restylane, Perlane, and Juvederm are the fastest growing sector of cosmetic enhancement procedures. These 'low risk' fillers help plump up areas of the face that lose volume during the aging process offering immediate visual results. They work well in adding volume to the lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds, the corners of the mouth, lips, and smoothing out those nasty wrinkles. They are made from Hyaluronic Acid, a non-animal substance, which offers comfort from the threat of allergies, or the concerns of disease transmission from animal sourced products. No skin testing is required.

During the treatment, a very thin needle is placed into the skin underneath the targeted area. The filler is injected in a slow, steady movement as the needle is being withdrawn. A jelly-like substance (the filler) is left adding fullness to the specific area. Since there is increased control with this type of procedure, the sculpted end result will offer a predictable desired effect, . . . dramatic or subtle. The results will last longer than collagen injections and can last from three months to three years, depending on the product used.

Redness and swelling will be noted at the injection site lasting for two to three days, but nothing that will require downtime. Lips can take more time to recover. Cold packs may be used, but refrain from using ice. The skin may feel a little lumpy at first, but this will smooth out as the swelling reduces. Gentle massage can be helpful. Avoid using aspirin, Vitamin E and other medications prior to the treatment as they may cause bruising. Pump up the volume!

Cosmeceutical Skin Care

Cosmeceuticals offer something a little more advanced than regular skin care. These products are not just skin care and they are not quite a pharmaceutical. They are incredible tools to give your skin the extra triggers it needs to regenerate, defend and protect itself. Ingredients like retinols, vectorized peptides and amino acids (targeted delivery), and specific anti-oxidants are all created to influence certain receptor sites on specific cells, which will give definitive results.

These types of products are not usually recommended for long-term use. They are usually used as a "cure", which means using the products daily for a specific period of time. Incredible results, and repair, can be achieved with this type of product. They can also be a great way to prepare your skin before having a surgical procedure. In fact, you may even decide to put the surgery on hold for awhile to see what kind of results these products can offer. Having said that, cosmeceuticals can also be used as a great tool to reinforce surgical results and increase their longevity. Whether you are thinking of medical intervention, or not, cosmeceuticals are worth adding to your health and beauty repertoire.

Quick Fix Beauty

The economy is serving up new statistics with respect to plastic surgery. Not surprisingly, the financial roller coaster is being blamed for reports of an overall decline in major plastic surgery. Consumers are tightening their belts by saving money instead of spending money on liposuction. Face lifts and other fairly radical surgeries are easily placed on the back burner by their more affordable, non-invasive 'sister treatments' that require no downtime. Plastic surgery may indeed make a huge difference in one's appearance (if done properly), but forces patients out on the sidelines of life while they heal in privacy. Who can afford that?

Lunch hour quick fixes, on the other hand, require no down time (if done properly) and have the ability to shave off a few years without losing life's momentum. Non invasive procedures like botox, dermal fillers, dermabrasion and IPL (intense pulse light) are the new super stars of the plastic surgery world. They are easier on the pocket book, easier on the patient, and fulfill a quest for youth enhancement.

A successful treatment will reveal a healthy, rested, youthful glow. If the purpose is to remain competitive in the workplace and in the game of life, . . . then let the games begin.

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - SPA FINDER

Spa Finder 2009 Readers' Choice Awards
Enter by May 31, 2009
Grand Prize: One winner will receive a 5 night vacation package for two (2) persons to Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat in Queensland, Australia. Package includes 5 nights in twin/double Deluxe Orchard Suite accommodation, all organic meals, snacks and beverages; 3 classic massages and 1 facial per person during the duration of the stay, lifestyle workshops, an organic cooking demonstration, health and wellbeing analysis. Transportation to and from Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat is not included. Courtesy transfer from Gold Coast airport at set times is included.
Approximate Retail Value $3,800.

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is considered a "minimally invasive" medical treatment used to treat cellulite and eliminate its unmistakable orange peel appearance. The procedure is carried out by a doctor who will customize a specific formula for each patient after a thorough consultation. Each formula is made up of different injectable medications that are effective in blocking fat storage and promoting the fat to breakdown. Mesotherapy also promotes the restructuring of the collagen that has been degraded during the cellulite progression leading to healthier, firmer, smoother skin.

As with most medical procedures, there are a few side effects. The injections can create a burning sensation that lasts for about 15 minutes. The treatment may leave you with some bruising and soreness for a few days. The sessions are given weekly or bi-weekly and are approximately 45 minutes long with no downtime.

Lipo Laser Treatments

Lipo Laser . . . now that sounds interesting. A laser that melts those fat cells and helps to reshape your body. It is considered a non-invasive treatment that can treat specific areas to give better body contouring. It is painless; you simply relax and let the laser do the work. Usually, the area to be treated is measured. You are asked to lie down and elastic straps are used to hold the pair of lasers in place. While you relax, the laser causes the fat cells to release some of their contents (triglycerides), which is then converted into free fatty acids and glycerol that can be eliminated by normal tissue functioning.

Each area treated is exposed for 10 minutes, then the laser wands are relocated to an adjacent or different area. After the laser treatment is finished most centers will recommend a gentle work out for ten to 20 minutes to enhance the elimination from the tissues. Like other non-invasive laser, or light therapies, a series of treatments is recommended, the number depending on the results you are after. You are measured again after your treatment, and you should see an immediate improvement. This is an interesting approach to shrinking the fat cells, which will mean less cellulite as well.

Great results can be achieved, but it will take time (number of visits) and will cost between $100.00 - $150.00 per treatment. This type of laser can be used almost anywhere, under the chin, thighs, abdomen, upper arm etc. and there is no bruising or downtime. Don’t forget the home care, especially if your focus is eliminating cellulite.