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Acne is often a frightfully debilitating skin condition, and the resulting scars are always a painful reminder for the people who boldly face the world no matter how self-conscious they might feel. It is promising to note that acne scar removal is well within one's grasp. It is simply a matter of choosing the most suitable approach.Depending on their severity, these acne scars can be treated at home either with over-the-counter products or through carefully chosen natural alternatives. If the scars are particularly deep, or if the home treatment approach has not achieved the desired results, patients can approach medical professionals for a more effective solution.

Coolaser treatment can improve the look of wrinkles, fine lines around the mouth and eyes, facial scars, uneven skin pigmentation, sun damaged skin, and acne scars.Coolaser treatment treats wrinkles, improves the look of fine lines around the mouth and eyes, tightens skin, evens out uneven skin tone, removes sun damaged skin, sun spots, and scars.

Acne Scars Home Remedies

For less obvious scars, natural acne scar removal may be a good choice. Whenever possible, many people prefer to take a more homeopathic route in an effort to reduce the effects of chemicals on their sensitive skin. Of course, some people have better luck than others. This form of treatment may be a good way to start out, as it may reduce the cost of purchasing more expensive products right off the bat.Applying honey to acne scars is one of the most popular acne scar removal home remedies around. The natural healing properties of the honey will work on the scar tissue overnight. When the sweet substance is rinsed off in the morning it should have done a little bit of work on the affected area. Results generally only become visible after a few weeks. Over time, scars will lighten by a fractional amount. Aloe vera is another popular natural acne scar removal remedy. This gel is well-known to support the healing process. Applying the gel is said to lighten acne scars gradually over time.

Acne Scar Removal Products

When home remedies prove to be unsuccessful, as is the case with severe scarring, acne scar removal cream is the next logical step. Special moisturizing creams are often developed in an attempt to gradually lighten scars over time. These creams are generally quite gentle on one's skin, and will contain just a small amount of the chemicals needed to reduce the appearance of acne scars.In many cases, however, acne scar removal cream will be prescribed for use after cosmetic procedures. This is because the cream may not be able to get rid of the scars by the amount that the patient is looking for. It is important to note that scarring will never be completely invisible if patients only use these creams without pursuing another, more effective treatment first.For people who prefer to stay away from any cosmetic procedures, or for people who are happy to contend with minimal scarring, acne scar removal cream can be used in conjunction with cover-up products.

Laser Acne Scar Removal

Laser skin treatments are progressing in leaps and bounds, providing an effective means of reducing any unsightly scars or blemishes. This minimally invasive cosmetic treatment is surprisingly simple, and not at all as painful as some might say. This treatment involves the removal of the very outer layers of the skin -- generally the ones that bear the most obvious scar tissue.These outer layers are not particularly sensitive, which means that they can be removed safely, usually without complications. When the old layers of skin have been removed, the body is prompted to begin the healing process on the newer layer. This process is what assists in lifting the effects of scarring, making blemishes less apparent with each treatment. Modern laser acne scar removal treatments will last for roughly 20 minutes.Local anesthetic will often be used to numb the sensitive areas of the face, in an effort to reduce even the smallest amount of discomfort during the procedure. Although the procedure is minimally invasive, physicians will ensure that their patients are as comfortable as possible at all times.

Before and After Laser Acne Scar Removal

Before any laser skin treatment, patients will be urged to stay out of direct sunlight for at least a month. In some cases, a cosmetic physician will prescribe the use of a particular topical ointment before the treatment session as perhapsan antiviral and antibiotic medication. This is strictly as an added precaution, and should not be cause for concern. Following the necessary precautions will aid in speeding up the recovery process after the treatment.After the laser treatment, patients will notice a new layer of skin growing after about a week and a half. The treated area will be fairly sensitive and swollen directly after the laser session, and patients may experience some discomfort. Many doctors prescribe a small amount of medication to aid in pain management. In the first few months, patients will notice some redness or slight color changes.The new layer of skin is often susceptible to slight scabbing and itching. Patients must always avoid scratching the affected area, as this will do more harm than good. Doctors will often prescribe aftercare ointments to speed up the healing process.Acne Scar Removal CostWhile home remedies are certainly the most affordable option, the amount of time wasted on ineffective treatments may not be worth the trouble. Creams and over-the-counter scar reduction products may begin to lighten scars over lengthy periods of time, but the trial and error involved can be quite costly.

Recently, a wide variety of fillers have hit the market in conjunction with the rise of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. Such procedures and these new products allow for the creation of a youthful look without the pain and recovery time that has typically been associated with plastic surgery. Here is a look at some of the newest and most effective fillers.

Hyaluronic acid-based filler

Reflation is an injectable cosmetics procedure that was refined in Canada. Hyaluronic acid-based filler is injected beneath the dermal layer. This filler lays on the surface of the facial bones and acts as a support for the facial skin. The filler is particularly useful for padding out the skin under the eyes, the area surrounding the nasolabial folds, the cheeks and the temples. This procedure can be carried out in three sessions and the filler lasts for about six months.

fillers to soften the nose

When fillers are injected into the tip, cartilage or bone they offer a layer of padding that softens an aging nose. A one-millimeter layer of filler can make a vast difference and it takes around thirty minutes to complete the process.

Belotero Balance

fillers are injected into the roll of skin that surrounds the lips. Belotero Balance is used to fill the deep nasolabial folds and the FDA has approved this filler. Unlike other fillers Belotero Balance can be used to fill superficial lines. The facial lines plump up immediately and the results last up to nine months. Unfortunately this cosmetics procedure may cause bruising that lasts for five to ten days.

Carboxy

Carbon dioxide therapy or Carboxy is a form of plastic surgery. A minuscule needle is fastened to a tank containing the gas and tiny puffs of carbon dioxide are injected into the skin that surrounds the eyes. This process helps to treat dark circles by reducing the blue tinge and improving the capillary network. The procedure has also been used to treat lower lids that have gone baggy. Six twenty-minute sessions will bring the best results and the effects last for up to one year.

Voluma

This filler is not yet FDA approved yet it is gaining popularity. Those who practice cosmetic dermatology have expressed their enthusiasm for this particular filler. This is one of those injectable cosmetics that are put under the layer of muscle. The filler is then gently massaged until it forms into the right shape. People who have always wanted to have defined cheekbones or a stronger chin or jaw line used to have to resort to plastic surgery but this filler does the same job. Voluma can be injected and positioned within fifteen minutes and the effects last for up to eighteen months.

Fat Grafting

This is a cosmetics process that is carried out by a physician who is experienced in plastic surgery. The surgeon gathers the fat cells from the patients belly, knees and thighs and those cells are then used to create larger breasts. On average this procedure takes up to two hours to complete. Those who practice cosmetic dermatology say that fat is far softer than fillers and injecting fat can make the thinner skin surrounding the eyes look bright. Recent research seems to show that fat stem cells encourage elastin and collagen production. It takes around ninety minutes to inject the soft fat into the lower eyelids. If the surgeon injects the area around the eye too many times then complications may arise.

LIPO-102

This is a cosmetics procedure that is used to melt away body fat. LIPO-102 is injected via a tiny needle into the area surrounding the navel. The substance activates the tissue metabolism and reduces the fat. A recent study found that some people lost around an inch after just eight sessions. The skin surrounding the navel is injected about twenty times during each session. LIPO-102 has yet to be approved by the FDA.

Plastic surgery is no longer the taboo it once was—everything from liposuction to rhinoplasty is becoming somewhat run-of-the-mill. However, there are some individuals who resort to going under the knife in illegal and unsafe clinics.In these particular cases, one often finds that the patient is completely unaware of the risks involved. The safety of patients should be every plastic surgeon's main concern. Unfortunately, in the case of unlicensed practitioners, the surgeon is more concerned with raking in money than getting the job done properly.Minerva Rodriguez signed herself for a buttock augmentation by an unlicensed practitioner in an apartment in the Bronx. She received the injections, and immediately began to vomit uncontrollably. After being rushed to the hospital, she was pronounced dead a few hours after the initial injections.

Lidocaine Poisoning Marked as the Cause of Death

According to medical professionals, the cause of Rodriguez' death was acute lidocaine poisoning. This substance is generally used to numb the area in which the augmentation procedure is being performed. In most cases, 50ml is enough to kill a person. Therefore, it is imperative that a licensed anesthetist in a professional medical setting administers lidocaine carefully.

12 Incisions Seem a bit Excessive

An area plastic surgeon noted that the large amounts of lidocaine in Minerva Rodriguez' system were not the only indicator that an unlicensed, non-medical person was the culprit. Most plastic surgeons will complete a buttock augmentation with one single incision (two or three at most). The twelve incisions found on Rodriguez' body are completely unheard of.

Trust is a Contributing Factor

Trust is a huge issue among the Latin American community. In many cases, people prefer to go under the knife of a surgeon who has similar cultural ties. Unlicensed plastic surgeons prey on this; convincing the patient that they are licensed in their home country and that they have completed the surgery many times over. More often than not, the simple thought that the surgeon is qualified in their home country is enough to sway the patient’s opinion.

Guilty Surgeon Wanted for Reckless Endangerment

The woman who performed the procedure has a warrant out for her arrest after empty syringes, hypodermic needles and vials of lidocaine were found in her apartment where the procedure was performed. According to her son, she had been performing buttock augmentation surgery for over 20 years. Although she is not licensed to perform this particular procedure, her son claims that she does have some form of medical license but he is not sure of what that could be.This incident is a reminder that plastic surgery and cosmetic treatments of any kind need to be performed by licensed practitioners. It is necessary for patients to do their due diligence prior to undergoing any operation and to ensure that the doctor performing the procedure is properly qualified and working in a sanitary medical environment.

As wrinkles begin to knock at their doors, a burgeoning number of men and women are turning to plastic surgery and age-defying cosmetics. A Botox revolution has engulfed America; but is it led by qualified specialists or by imposters? A recent sting operation helmed by Boca Raton police suggests that sometimes it’s the latter.

Self-Styled Nurse Flouting State Laws

Sherry Goldman, a 58 year old resident of Highland Beach County, was recently caught by Boca Raton police in a sting operation. The undercover cops disguised themselves as patients seeking Botox treatments and approached the self-proclaimed nurse. She offered to inject them with discounted Botox without knowing that they were to be her last customers—at least for a while. Interestingly, this isn't the first time that the authorities have caught up with Goldman's shady medical business. She was caught a few years ago and was put on probation through Dec 4, 2013.On suggestion of a relative, the woman decided to check Goldman's reviews online before going ahead with the procedure. This is how she learnt of Goldman's previous brushes with the law and generally, tarnished reputation. She went a step ahead and checked the records at the Department of Health but to no avail. Investigators have pursued the case and uncovered a website, BeautyandBalance.com where Goldman claims to be a nurse with 30 years of experience who follows a revolutionary approach to beauty procedures.

The Real Cost of Fake Doctors like Goldman

With 58 years behind her, one can only wonder how many innocent patients' health and safety Goldman may have compromised. The number could run into hundreds if she has indeed spent 30 years in the industry as she claims. The police are speculating that she may have used illegal or/and unsafe chemicals in her treatments as a means of keeping costs low.Goldman may be just one of the many fake plastic surgery doctors currently practicing in the country. Such procedures are costing people a pretty penny and risking their health. Those looking for cosmetic procedures must understand that their safety is in their own hands. This arrest rings a warning bell, especially for those people who turn to discount websites in search of cheaper medical beauty procedures among other things.

Skin cancer is a major problem. Though largely preventable, few individuals take the time to pursue the measures necessary to avoid risky situations. As researchers spend more time looking in to this form of cancer, they are able to better determine which activities are likely to lead to greater chances for the development of skin cancer. While everything from cosmetics to driving can be linked in one way or another, the use of tanning beds has been shown to be one of the activities with the greatest risk of causing skin cancer.

A Causal Link

There is a very real causal link between ultraviolet radiation and skin cancer. The most commonly assumed factor in skin cancer is exposure to the sun, though this is not the only source of UV radiation that an individual might encounter in his or her life. The exposure to UV radiation over time is cumulative, putting the same amount of risk in play for individuals who go out for lengthy excursions on rare occasions, as opposed to those who frequently encounter the radiation in brief. Given this factor, it should come as no surprise that tanning beds have become a major factor in skin cancer.

The Tanning Bed Problem

The reason behind the link has less to do with the kind of light used in tanning beds, and rather more to do with the length of exposure. Those who tan may expose themselves to the harmful rays several times a week, as opposed to those who tan naturally and less often. As such, the potential for skin cancer increases due to time spent, rather than the style of tanning. While perhaps not pleasant news for those who have memberships at tanning salons, this does help to explain the severity of the link between tanning and skin cancer as well as the lower average age of those who develop skin cancer.

Other Tanning Solutions

If exposure to UV rays is one of the major culprits behind skin cancer, it only stands to reason that one must be careful to seek out cosmetic solutions that avoid the rays in the first place. The use of so-called "fake tan" solutions provides a way for individuals to darken their pigmentation without exposure to tanning beds or the sun, though it does not provide as "natural" a look. Instead, one might want to limit his or her exposure when seeking out a natural look, always keeping in mind that sunscreen is a necessity.

Skin Cancer

Given the real problem of skin cancer and its increasing link to tanning salons, cosmetics do seem to be a safer option than using any source of UV light. While tanning beds used in moderation present no more of a threat than tanning under the sun, it is important that users do not assume that they are taking the safer option. If users understand that the radiation used is still harmful and that length of use can lead to worsening health, it is entirely possible that melanomas can be more easily avoided.

Experimental genetic techniques may become the future of reconstructive surgery. It may be used to promote the growth of the tissue to fix various injuries from damaged joint cartilage in people with rheumatoid arthritis to nerves. The June issue of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, the official medical journal of the ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons) contains a review of the recent progress in gene therapy development.In the last ten years, various researchers have developed gene therapy techniques that look promising. These promote the growth of bone, skin and other tissues, which can be used for reconstructive surgery. However, they still have many trials to overcome before these experimental techniques can be used in an actual operating room.

Gene Therapy: Will It Ever Become A Reality?

There are studies that aim to promote the growth of almost every kind of tissue needed for regenerative surgery. They believe that this type of research may become the leading strategy to develop tissues for various clinical needs. Gene therapy may potentially provide plastic surgeons with a new way to solve difficult problems that stem from the lack of sufficient tissues to correct deformities of a certain structure or area of the body. Thus, instead of relying on cosmetics to mask flaws a patient has the option to have procedures done to restore the area. For cases like burns, a plastic surgeon may be able to use genetically engineered tissue and attach it to the area of concern using skin flaps to transfer healthy skin to the area.

There Are Still Hurdles To Overcome

At present, various research groups are heatedly pursuing different types of gene therapy to regenerate skin tissue using the genes to tweak growth factors that occur during the natural process of skin healing. A certain study has developed promising results using tissue-engineered material to fix skin ulcers caused by diabetes.

Growth Factors and Bone Formation

Some groups are targeting the growth factors responsible for bone formation and shows promise as well. They use transplantation of donor bones that are genetically modified. There are also studies that show the clinical benefits of gene therapy on the joint cartilage of patients who have rheumatoid arthritis. Other studies that show possibilities exist to re-grow tendons, nerves and skin flap growth.However, despite the progress in these areas of plastic surgery, there is still much time before these practices become part of usual cosmetic surgery procedures, as there are still technical problems that have to be addressed. Even if the glitches were resolved, researchers need to clock in more hours to develop techniques that are not only productive but also cost-effective.

Regenerative surgery

Regenerative surgery has been compared to an adolescent who is looking forward to growing up. Even though there have been an extensive amount of preclinical approaches, the translation of gene therapy from studies to clinical trials is unlikely as of now. This is mainly due to the difficulty and cost of such a step. However, in the realm of plastic surgery and cosmetics, these procedures will definitely set milestones for the creation of effective treatments to cure various diseases and injuries.

Many celebrities and models admit that their number one beauty secret is to wear sunscreen. Wearing sunscreen has long been the advice of many mothers, but there really is more to wearing sunscreen than a lot of people give thought to. Sunscreen use is important, and not just on sunny and warm days.

The History of Skin Safety in the Sun

The United States Food and Drug Administration introduced the SPF rating system for sunscreen over 35 years ago. In 1985, sunscreen with an SPF higher than 15 became available for purchase and skin cancer screenings became part of preventative and routine medical care. The first skin cancer awareness campaign was also launched that same year.Earlier generations slathered on tanning oil and soaked up the sun. This generation grabbed and applied sunscreen before enjoying a day in the sun. The even smarter ones applied it even on overcast days and on days they would not be outside as much. Now, this more skin cautious generation is becoming of the age to tell whether or not SPF has done its predicted job.

A Generation without Skin Damage

An assistant clinical professor of dermatology from the University of California at San Francisco believes that SPF has indeed done its job. She reports that in her own practice she sees women in their 30's who look like they are in their 20's. She also has noticed that these women are patients with paler skin and speculates that their mothers probably bathed them in sunscreen before each outdoor adventure.A dermatology doctor in Manhattan states that she also notices this subset of patients, as they seem to show no signs of photo-aging, even into their 30's. She observes that these patients do not have freckles on the hands, necks, and chests, or skin creepiness that many patients notice from sun damage. Interestingly, the doctor also points to some research showing that some Buddhist monks who have never been outside of the monastery all of their lives, look 30, when they are really 80.

Rating Sun Damage

New complexion analysis machines can show what sun damage a woman has sustained and compare it with others of the same age and ethnicity. The machine rates texture, wrinkles, red areas, and UV spots. Darker skinned women have more natural protection. However, for women that have fair skin, sun protection can be complete with a high SPF sunscreen. Though one bad burn on someone with fair skin can cause a lot of damage.

Sun Damage Laser Treatments

For those that have experienced sun damage, a new fractional cosmetic laser treatment can improve the signs of sun damage and also serve to enhance the overall texture and fullness of the skin. Even with these available treatments, people should be committed to wearing sunscreen daily, rain or shine, in order to protect against skin cancer and have healthier more youthful looking skin.

Even though sun damage is dangerous, people consistently decide to turn to tanning beds for a bronzed appearance. There are a great number of skin care products that line store shelves. Cosmetics, including bronzers, have been created to achieve a sun kissed look without the damaging effects. Recent times have also seen a growing trend toward pale skin as well. Despite these facts, a great number of people cannot get out of the tanning habit. This is because UV rays may be addictive.

UV Rays Are As Addictive As Drugs

Research has been done that shows how UV rays stimulate certain parts of the brain. They send a signal of reward and pleasure that is similar to the effects of drugs. For years, cosmetic physicians have listened to patients who explain the "feel good" effect that tanning brings.Studies have shown that people who suffer from S.A.D.D (Seasonal Affective Disorder) use tanning beds as a means of medication. Many psychologists explain that UV rays act seductively and coax a person into feeling relaxed. This is the same feeling that traps a drug addict. It is the same way that opiates bring a sense of happiness to the brain.To back up this theory, scientists have collected a group of people who tan regularly and have administered a medicine that blocks the euphoria caused by drugs. Even after continued tanning, this group suffered symptoms of withdrawal. There is new research beginning to study the effects of dopamine on addiction as well.

Long Term Tanners Get Hit The Hardest

Tanning does not become an addiction after just one session at a tanning bed. However, the more that a person returns to a place where UV rays are present, there higher the chance that addiction will occur. People who have tanned for many years are most likely to return time and time again, even after knowing the potential dangers. In fact, skin cancer is at the highest level of all times.

How to Battle Addiction To UV Rays

There are programs being developed that will try to intervene with this addiction. They will try to steer people who are addicted to UV rays toward self-tanners and other skin care products that mimic the results of tanning. Spray tans are becoming a popular part of spa treatments that provide relaxation. People who have S.A.D.D. may receive LED light treatment to reverse the negative mood swings that are associated with seasonal changes.More and more people are becoming addictive to UV rays. Tanning is known to cause dangerous effects on the body's health. Despite the high rates of skin cancer, people continue to be drawn to UV rays. This addiction can be as strong and powerful as drug addiction. The best way to prevent tanning abuse is to say no from the very beginning. Not getting started is the only sure way to prevent addiction from occurring.

Tanning salons are establishments that provide services that enable people to acquire a tan while indoors. Generally, they have a number of beds where people lie for a specific time to progressively tan the skin. Normally, for an individual to accomplish the longed for tan, they must attend sessions for a number of weeks or a number of months and to continue keeping the tanned skin, they must attend regular tanning sessions.

The danger of UVA Light Rays

When tanning salons initially became popular, they were believed to be a safer option to outdoor tanning due to less prolonged exposure to UVA and UVB irradiation. More established salons specifically used UVB rays and this exposed clients to considerable jeopardy and the possibility of skin damage. Presently, most tanning salons use UVA light rays and while this poses a lesser risk of harm, there is still the possibility of skin damage.

The FDA Requirement for Cancer Warning Signs

The FDA wants tanning salons to post cancer warning signs and has been debating the matter for some time now. The idea behind tougher warnings is based on the fact that there is a growing general scientific agreement that there are no safe tans. Tougher regulations are also as a result of concerns about the apparatus that is used not working correctly and thus exposing customers to too much radiation.

Regulatory Control Measures by the FDA

At present, indoor tanning beds are categorized as low risk medical equipment and are not subject to any audit or inspection by the FDA. However, renewed safety concerns have led to suggestions by the FDA to place the industry at the middle risk group of classification. This would necessitate that companies that deal with cosmetics and specifically in the area of tanning would demonstrate that their equipment has incorporated the latest developments and safety issues are not a concern anymore.

Cosmetics Companies Not Committed To Correct Safety Measures

This would also ensure that their sunlamps release correct amount of energy and that all preventative safety determinants are put in place. The FDA argues that while most indoor tanning companies ought to be carrying out testing, they are currently not doing so. The FDA also believes that those that are actually doing it are going about it the wrong way or are not undertaking sufficient smart testing measures.

Research Backs Up Complacency Claims

Research has also highlighted the fact that the tanning industry has in most cases overlooked safety protocol as well as regulations. This is particularly because the advocated tanning exposure periods have been surpassed by 95% of indoor tanners as a report by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine has indicated. When cosmetics companies do not post consumer warnings and admit consumers under the age of 18 to tan without permission from parents, this puts people under great risk.

The Importance of Warnings and the Young at Age

The FDA's argument is further reinforced by the fact that many people risk getting melanoma, one of the most prevalent forms of skin cancer. Studies indicate that the risk of melanoma increases by 75% for people that use tanning beds at an early age. While tanning beds have some warnings that link them to cancer, the markers are not easily detectable to consumers and do not specifically disclose their risks to young customers.

What the FDA Envisions For Consumers

Stringent measures are required as well as firmer warnings, more regulation, and a reclassifying of the tanner beds. While the FDA acknowledges that people will still use the beds, they would like to see these beds be made as low risk as possible. The FDA also wants consumers to be given access relevant information about critical hazards. Basically, the FDA objectifies a situation where consumers know what dangers they expose themselves to so that they can make informed decisions.

With all the cosmetic procedures for getting rid of wrinkles, most people don't think of tape as their first choice. However, facial taping is a technique used by Hollywood actresses to keep their faces tight and wrinkle free. However, the question remains whether tape actually works in the long run?

Frownies

Frownies are transparent stickers that are available in several sizes and shapes to fit on various areas of the face. Frownies have been around for over a century and can be found in numerous drug stores and online websites. Recently they have been receiving competition from Furlesse, another anti-wrinkle patch. Frownies use the simple concept that adding tape to the skin can make it stay flat, thereby eradicating wrinkles.

Do Patches Work?

Some believe that adding Frownies or Furlesse patches every night can create a positive difference against wrinkles. While sleeping skin gets scrunched and squished, making the wrinkles worse. The patch acts as a retainer, holding the skin in place and preventing it from getting stretched.

What's the Point of Facial Tape?

Facial tape is marketed to give buyers an instant facelift. Although there are several success stories using tape, studies have shown that this technique does not work for everyone. To wear the tape in public, the user needs to have long hair that can cover the pads that are pulling back the skin. Without long hair, the user will not be able to hide the tape anchor.

What Is the Process for Applying Facial Tape

The face gets cleansed with exfoliating cream to remove dead skin. Facial tape is then applied to stretch the skin, creating a youthful and natural appearance. Using tape, the jawline is pushed up to the cheekbone region and the nose skin is pulled back to the ears. Tape is also used on the eyebrows to make the eye area tighter. Additional tape is used for any remaining lines around the forehead and lips. This process is repeated several times. On the last time, the bandages are soaked to moisten the skin.

Does It Work?

Many spas that use face tape report that their clients see a measurable and visible difference. For users who are not sure of any difference, some spas encourage them to take a before/after picture.

What Type of Facial Problems Can Tape Fix?

Facial tape has been used to treat loose skin hanging from the eyes, sagging jowls, double chins, crows’ feet, and any wrinkles on the face. However, one session usually is not enough to remove visible wrinkles. For people who have serious wrinkles, cosmetics and other anti-aging treatments may be required.

Though most celebrities adamantly deny that they will ever even consider plastic surgery, award winner Naomi Watts says that plastic surgery is not out of the question. Though Watts says that she needs expression in her face to aptly play the emotional roles that she has lately been filling, plastic surgery is not something that she completely dismisses.

Plastic Surgery

Watts says that though she has not gotten any plastic surgery herself, she does not judge those that do as it is a personal choice and that those that do not opt for fillers and other face freezing procedures tend to inhabit two extremes. She says that in some cases they look freakish and tend to make their faces so immobile that playing roles correctly is not possible while others recover well from these procedures.

Workout Regimen

Watts also says that she does Pilates and yoga to keep her great physique and that even though she is aging, she is doing it gracefully. For many, the signs of a good life are wrinkles and smile lines and Watts feels as if those are some of the things that make it possible for her to play emotional roles and to show that she has lead a rich life. Many of those individuals in Hollywood are so scared of aging that they run to the plastic surgeon the second they see a line, Watts is exactly the opposite. Though she is aging incredibly well and lines do not seem to be an issue with her at all, Watts is willing to admit that she may feel like getting plastic surgery in the future if the situation permits. However, Watts says that her favorite roles are those of women with rich lives, and without lines and wrinkles, this is not possible.

Diet

For Watts, the key is aging gracefully and taking the time to enjoy the things that she has lived through. Watts also says that diets are not her thing, that rather than depriving herself of the foods that she loves, she eats in moderation and works to balance her diet while still eating the foods that she loves. Bread and pizza are at the top of the list and though she does not indulge in large amounts of either, she does eat some occasionally. Watts also claims that motherhood and family are two of the things that help to make her feel and look younger. Rather than spending time worrying about not getting enough sleep, Watts spends her time relishing the love and support that she feels from her family.

Juggling Career and Motherhood

Like so many other women, Watts says that motherhood is one of the most fulfilling things she has ever been a part of. Though she does not get as much sleep as those that do not have children, she feels incredibly enriched and fulfilled because she is a mother. Naomi Watts is one of the few actresses in Hollywood that are happy with their lines and with their lives without the aid of plastic surgery and other anti-aging products and procedures.

There are a number of things for which some women are envious of Kate Middleton and included among them are her husband, her poise and her celebrated sense of style. However, there is another thing for which some women envy her and that is her nose.The New York Daily News has reported that there are a number of young women in Long Island and New York who are flocking to the offices of plastic surgeons in a manner that is similar to a spring sale at Barneys, in order to get the sniffer of the Duchess of Cambridge.

Why Kate?

The nose of the Duchess is popular among patients who are on the quest for a "natural" look. He says that women, particularly those who are over 28 years of age, would like to have the nose of a woman who they consider strong, refined and regal. Kate’s nose appeals to many women because it is cute and perky and it is not too big. Her nose will suit just about any type of face.The Daily News noted that with that type of funds on the table, New York plastic surgeons that have been noticing the royal rhinoplasty trend have become proactive. Many New York plastic surgeons have created portfolios of Kate Middleton photos to present to patients when they come in for their consultations.

Across the Pond

However, New Yorkers are not the only ones; women in the United Kingdom are requesting Kate Middleton nose jobs as well. According to data released in 2012 by the Transform Cosmetic Surgery Group, Kate Middleton's nose is the celebrity facial feature that is most frequently requested.

Will it Be a Boy or Girl for Kate and William?

The growing popularity of the royal nose job comes as Middleton, who is more than half way through her first pregnancy, reportedly said at a ceremony on St. Patrick's Day that she is hoping for a boy but Prince William, her husband, would like a girl.

Acne breakouts seem to occur at the most inappropriate times. Numerous factors may lead to this problem. Here is a look at eight things that can make a person break out. Contact Epione for your acne treatment options!

Big Plans

Planning for something exciting can cause acne to occur. Events like a vacation or a wedding may be happy times, but can be extremely stressful to plan. Stress causes the immune system to lose control and pimples to erupt. During a stressful time, it may help to take some ibuprofen, which calms inflammation.

Hair

Most people use a wide range of products on hair. These items can rub against the face and block skin pores. To prevent breakouts, it will be wise to clean the forehead with salicylic acid.

Water

Most people do not know that the water used to shower can actually lead to acne. Hard water does not properly rinse soap off of the skin. The residue may lead to pimples. To correct the problem, a person may need to purchase an inexpensive water softener.

Toothpaste

Pimples may occur on any part of the face. When a person is allergic to certain ingredients in toothpaste, perioral dermatitis can occur. Likely culprits will be fluoride and whitening additives. To avoid or correct the problem, it may be best to temporarily use toothpaste that is free of fluoride.

Coffee With Cream

Although there is no conclusive scientific research that has blamed dairy for acne breakouts, many people believe that the proteins and peptides in milk trigger pimples. To rule out dairy as a problem, it is best to avoid rich latte or creams and drink black coffee. After a few weeks, a person may notice a clearer face.

Husband/Boyfriend

When a man has stubble and kisses a woman, it can lead to great friction that causes her skin to become irritated and inflamed. A girl's skin can begin to break out. Another thing that may be to blame is the man's heavy aftershave. To solve the problem, a man should shave his face and stop applying cologne to the face. This will keep kissing more comfortable and less likely to cause pimples.

Birth Control

Even though most birth control pills can clear up acne, a change in hormones can cause breakouts. It may be wise to switch brands. A gynecologist will be able to help realign hormone levels and stop pimples.

Sun Exposure

The sun is known to dry up pimples. However, too much exposure can cause the skin to thicken. This can lead to blocked pores. To avoid this problem, it is always smart to apply an oil free sunscreen that contains UV protection.Breakouts can occur at any time. Instead of reaching for cosmetics to cover up the problem, it is better to get to thee root of the problem. The above things are just a few common reasons why a person may suffer bouts of acne.

Recently, research gave wine lovers another reason to raise their glasses – this time for its supposed anti-aging benefits. Resveratrol, a chemical found in red wine and cocoa has already been speculated to reduce blood pressure in men and help maintain motor balance in the elderly. Now with anti-aging benefits to boot, is resveratrol can become the new darling of the cosmetics industry.

What is Resveratrol?

Resveratrol is an antioxidant with a polyphenolic structure, naturally found in both red wine and cocoa. It belongs to a group of 600 antimicrobial chemical compounds collectively named phytoalexins. Plants produce phytoalexins to fight infections, change in weather, extreme climates, ultraviolet light and other severe conditions.The research for resveratrol is not without its set of challenges. Most of the data was collected using laboratory mice and not humans, for example. A 2012 study gave resveratrol to mice with balance issues, and after receiving high doses for at least a month; the mice were able to walk across a balance beam with no problems. This same effect would be problematic to gauge in humans simply because it would take 700 bottles of red wine for humans to get the same concentration of resveratrol in their systems. This much alcohol is lethal.

Cosmetic Companies Give Resveratrol a Chance

Most prominent studies that link resveratrol with anti aging benefits have been around for only a few years. Its anti aging benefits have not been detailed yet but the cosmetics industry seems to be giving it a hard chase already. Many spas around the world including Les Sources de Caudalie in France and Aire Ancient Baths in New York have tipped their traditional spa bath infusions and replaced them with tubs full of red wine. A skincare brand named Resvology also sells products with an ester of the compound that they claim erases fine lines and wrinkles.

How Should Resveratrol be Administered?

The Mayo Clinic has stated that the human body does not readily absorb oral resveratrol supplements. Different studies imply different methods for intake of the chemical. A 2005 study published in the National Institutes of Health reports that when researchers applied resveratrol externally on the skin of animals and exposed them to ultraviolet radiation, the compound protected the subjects from skin damage. Another study published in October 2012 in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology reported that a 60-day course of orally administered resveratrol improved moisture, softness, elasticity and complexion in subjects.Resveratrol is touted as perhaps the most effective sunblock found in plants and animals. With anti aging benefits, UV protection, cancer prevention and improved motor control in its roster of benefits, resveratrol may soon become a very popular antioxidant in the cosmetics industry.

Exercise can cause many skin problems. When a person participates in outdoor activity, this can lead to sun damage. There are numerous cosmetic treatments available that can alleviate the spots and wrinkles associated with the problem.Proper skin care is essential if one wants to stay healthy and retain a youthful appearance. Skin that is repeatedly exposed to the sun and other elements will not only appear dry and become wrinkled and unsightly; it can become the perfect target for toxins and carcinogens. Add the use of cosmetics or the wrong skin care products, and the results can be deadly.

Popular Skin Treatments

The first step in repairing sun damaged skin is to remove all of the skin cells that have been harmed and actually go down to the next layer of new cells that have not been directly exposed to the sun. Chemical peels are a popular technique available to accomplish this task. The result can be new, healthy skin that is free to breathe and is not clogged with old cells or other impurities. You will look younger and healthier and enjoy the feel of soft, rejuvenated skin.

Microdermabrasion

Another popular treatment is a form of Microdermabrasion. This process sprays an area of the skin with a concentration of tiny crystals, under pressure, which exfoliates the skin and is then immediately vacuumed away along with the discarded skin cells. The top layer of skin is literally erased, leaving new, smoother, fresher skin behind. The process is very precise. Though some patients report a slight tingling sensation, the process requires no anesthetic. Because it requires no recuperation time, patients can return to normal activities immediately.Microdermabrasion does not require any surgical techniques and does not go beyond the topical layers of the skin. This procedure is considered safe, yet the results can be seen immediately, even after the initial procedure. In a period as short as six to eight weeks, one can have a healthier complexion and younger looking skin, which is free of sun damage and other noticeable flaws or damage. This treatment also provides the removal of fine lines, scar reduction, diminished pores and the removal of most age spots.

Chemical Peels

Microdermabrasion and chemical peels along with other treatments such as CoolFrax Laser treatment can be the answer to looking years younger and feeling better about your health and appearance without surgery or other invasive procedures.

Post-Treatment Skin Care

After treatment, using only the finest cosmetics and skin care products, avoiding direct sun exposure without the use of an SPF 30 or greater sunscreen, will keep your skin looking and feeling younger and healthier than it has in years.Proper skin care after treatment will also mean you do not need to repeat the process every few months or that the results may fade If you are suffering the effects of exercised induced skin problems contact Epione.

Some of the common cosmetic procedures include butt lifts, Botox injections, facelifts, breast implants, and chin lifts. Before going under the knife, however, it is important to choose a surgeon carefully. Here are some of the key items that should be on one’s cosmetic surgery checklist:

Check the Surgeon's Credentials

Every surgical procedure, no matter how trivial, is risky. Therefore, one should always choose a qualified physician. Ask friends and family for referrals.

Carry Out Thorough Background Research

Although most plastic surgeons provide patients with detailed information, one should research on the surgical procedure they want to get comprehensively. Most importantly, find out the benefits as well as risks associated with the procedure. In addition, find out about the length of the recuperation period. Some of the other aspects that one should investigate thoroughly include the cost, non-invasive alternatives, and post operation care and checkups.

Schedule a Consultation

After choosing a physician, schedule a consultation preferably a one-on-one meeting with the physician who will carry out the procedure. By doing so, one would enable the physician to evaluate their medical history and plan the most appropriate treatment approach. During the consultation, one can express any concerns that they might have to the surgeon. If the physician advises against the procedure, do not rush to another physician immediately. Instead, find out why the physician does not recommend going through with the cosmetic procedure.

Do not have Unrealistic Expectations

While many people have an idea of how they would like to look after a cosmetic procedure, the outcome does not always meet patients' expectations. Remember physician do not have magical powers to give patients film star. As such, make expectations and goals clear to the physician. It may not be possible for one to achieve the particular look that they want. It is advisable to talk to patients who have had the same procedure in the past. This way, you will be able to have realistic expectations.Additionally, one should take time to carry out a thorough background research of the cosmetic procedure you intend to get. Finally, make sure the physician provides follow-up care.

Brandi Glanville of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fame recently revealed in her memoir the cosmetic procedure she underwent to get back at ex-husband actor Eddie Cibrian for his infidelity. The procedure, called gynocosmetology, is more commonly known as vaginal rejuvenation. It is a purely cosmetic procedure, one that is designed to modify the structure and appearance of a woman's genitals. It is not as popular as, say, breast augmentation but demand for this procedure is increasing. In 2009, over 50,000 vaginal rejuvenations were performed in the United States alone. So is Brandi Glanville on the right track with her decision to undergo this type of surgery? Just what is vaginal rejuvenation, what is involved and is it a good option for women considering it?

Vaginal Rejuvenation Explained

Vaginal rejuvenation is a type of reconstructive cosmetic surgery involving parts of the female genitalia, such as the vulva, the mucous membrane and the vaginal canal. It is usually performed on women whose private areas have been altered physically due to a birth defect, trauma, injury, disease or childbirth. Aside from creating an improved appearance, the procedure may also strengthen, reshape and firm up the outer areas to create a more youthful appearance. It is the equivalent of having a face-lift in that it helps improve the appearance of the outer genitals. The procedure is performed using a laser.Vaginal rejuvenation, such as the one performed on Brandi Glanville is usually a combination of procedures such as vaginoplasty and labiaplasty. Vaginoplasty refers to a surgical procedure where the patient's vaginal canal is tightened. A procedure called hymenoplasty may also be performed, wherein ruptured hymen is reconstructed. In labiaplasty, the labia or outer lips of the vagina are reduced or enhanced cosmetically in order to change the shape. Part of the labia is removed and the muscles and soft tissues near the area are tightened.

Help for Women that Suffer from Chronic Irritation

In some cases, the surgery may be necessary. Reduction of the labia is often indicated for women who suffer from chronic irritation due to sports, sex or tight clothes. Once the area has been changed physically, they usually no longer complain of discomfort.

Vaginal Rejuvenation - Recovery

The surgery is performed in a clinic or hospital and is generally an outpatient procedure. The patient will be put under general anesthesia, which should reduce the pain and discomfort for several hours during and post-surgery. Patients are prescribed painkillers and antibiotics to prevent infections. Recovery is relatively short, and patients can expect to move around in just a few days. Results are often visible in 2 to 3 weeks.

Vaginal Rejuvenation - Risks and Complications

Brandi Glanville's surgery, while successful, was not without risks. It is still a surgical procedure, one that could lead to bleeding, infection and development of scar tissues. Nerve endings may also be severed, resulting to the loss of feeling and sensation after the operation. In some women, however, the loss of feeling is temporary and they eventually recover in a few weeks or a few months.

A pregnant Kim Kardashian revealed the secret product she’s using to prevent pregnancy related stretch marks. Dr. Simon Ourian^™, Medical Director of Epione Beverly Hills, offers his stretch mark removal advice.

Celebrity Stretch Marks

“I just typed ‘celebrity stretch marks’ into Google,” says Dr. Ourian^™, “and there are unflattering photos of Lady Gaga, Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears. And that’s just the first page of results!”More than a few models and actresses visit Dr. Ourian’s Beverly Hills clinic and stretch marks are one of the items at the top of their list of concerns. “Fans expect these celebrities to be flawless,” continues Dr. Ourian^™, “and within the controlled environment of a photo shoot or movie set perfection is possible. It’s the job of directors, photographers, lighting people and makeup artists to hide their flaws. And in the end there’s always Photoshop.” The problem for celebrities today is that there are paparazzi and websites devoted solely to photographing them in the most unflattering light.

Crash Dieting

Crash dieting by models and actresses, sometimes post-pregnancy, to achieve what they consider their ideal weight accounts for most of the rapid weight loss related stretch marks Dr. Ourian^™ sees with his celebrity clientele. Dr. Ourian^™ would never advise a client to undertake an unhealthy weight loss regimen but celebrities, today more than ever, face enormous pressure to look a certain way and they will take shortcuts if necessary.

Why We Get Stretch Marks

Putting the body under too much stress by losing weight rapidly may cause gaps to appear in the skin as the result of stretching or tearing of the collagen and elastin fibers that are responsible for tone and firmness. The result is stretch marks and “Stretch marks don’t discriminate,” says Dr. Ourian. “If your weight fluctuates significantly in a short period of time, celebrity or not, you’re likely to get stretch marks.” And the marks don't have to be new to be treatable — even old stretch marks that have faded to white can be improved with laser treatment. Kate Beckinsale, considered one of Hollywood’s most beautiful actresses, was quoted as saying: “I don't know how people think you can go from eight-and-a-half stone (119 pounds) to over 12 stone (168 pounds) when you're pregnant and not get them. I've got stretch marks everywhere.”

Lotions and Potions

“There are a lot of lotions and potions out there,” says Doctor Ourian^™, “and many of them won’t do much at all for stretch marks. I’m not familiar with the product Kim Kardashian says she’s going to use to prevent pregnancy related stretch marks, I hope it will be effective for her. But if not, we offer the Coolbeam treatment for stretch mark removal at Epione and I’d invite her to come in and see for herself what we can do.”

The search for acne scar removal methods and products that might alleviate the issue has gone on for generations. Acne is a rupturing of the skin and can cause severe damage. Occasionally it is necessary to seek relief through medical procedures. People find it normal when teenagers have acne scarring but the problem is not limited to young adults. When acne scars occur people usually start with home remedies and creams. Long before any seeing a doctor, people will try to remove acne scars on their own.

Home Remedies

Acne scar removal by using lemon juice, oils, baking soda and skins sloughing creams are often tried before moving on to something prescribed by a physician. Acne creams will work if the problem of acne scarring has not affected the skin’s inner surface. Finding the correct acne solution for your skin is sometimes difficult particularly if your skin is prone to scarring. This could create horrible results after using some products.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is one method developed to relieve the damage of acne scarring. Once acne has taken over a person's face, scarring is likely to be severe and regular creams may have no effect. Microdermabrasion is a serious way of sloughing the skin, removing dead cells from the outer surface of the face. This process takes dead skin from the face, slowly removing the tissue that is scarred. This process may take time but it is non-surgical and not as expensive as some procedures.

Chemical Peels

The use of Chemical Peels to remove unattractive layers of outer skin is a poplar way to remove acne scarring. This procedure can give skin a new, youthful look. These products can be purchased over the counter or ordered online but for a truly effective chemical peel you may need to see a doctor.Many solutions are presented but one of the most effective products against acne is diet. What you eat creates a healthy colon system and promotes healthy skin. Detergents and foods may have the capacity to cause acne breakouts. Once these breakouts have started, sensitive skin has a difficult time restoring itself. The attack from outside bacteria does not help. Something as simple as your hand to your face may send your skin reeling into problems that can cause severe acne scarring.

For a woman, her self-confidence can be made or broken by her general appearance. One of the body parts which women feel self-conscious about is their breasts. Scars caused by breast reduction/enlargement operations or other forms of surgery can be an embarrassing nuisance for women, however, with cosmetic medicine reaching new heights daily, getting rid of scars is possible through non-surgical breast scar removal techniques.

Technique 1: Laser Technology

One way to accomplish it is by using laser technology. During this process, a laser is moved along the scar, thus vaporizing a layer of the skin to expose a newer, smoother layer, which heals in time and minimizes the appearance of the scar. Another method implemented in laser scar removal is targeting the lower layers of the skin to stimulate collagen growth in them, therefore smoothing out scars from the inside.In case individuals requiring breast scar removal are interested in laser treatments, they must be aware of the complications that come with this procedure. Two of the most common side effects are hyper-pigmentation and hypo-pigmentation. The first term refers to the darkening of the skin whereas the second one means the loss of color all together. In addition, both of these problems can escalate due to extra exposure to the sun. Other problems caused by laser scar removal include infections and allergic reactions, yet both of these are controllable through ointments and oral antibiotics.

Techniques 2 & 3: Microdermabrasion and Dermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is another cosmetic technique which can be useful in breast scar removal. This is a non-chemical procedure in which micro-crystals are sprayed to remove the upper layer of the scar in order to bring forward younger and healthier looking skin. This is gentler in nature than Dermabrasion and therefore can be used for simple regular and breast scar removal. On the other hand, Dermabrasion, which refers to sanding the exterior skin, is best used for deeper scars.Microdermabrasion is non-surgical and considered safe. As for Dermabrasion, the process may produce scarring, temporary redness and swelling, formation of acne-like pimples, hyperpigmentation and increased sensitivity to sunlight. At times, these temporary side effects can become permanent; however, this depends on the health of the skin being subjected to breast scar removal.

Techniques 4 & 5: filler and Fat Transfer Injections

filler injections are one of the most highly acclaimed ways of breast scar removal. The main benefit of these injections is that they save those who choose them the costs and risks of surgery. fillers can be injected close to the scar in order to make the skin around it appear elastic and smooth again.Some of the main problems one can face, when opting for this breast scar removal method, may include infections and allergic reactions, however, these are controllable through creams and oral antibiotics. More permanent problems include hyper-pigmentation or hypo-pigmentation around the area treated.Another non-surgical treatment for breast scar removal is fat transfer. In this method, fat cells from donor areas of the body are removed with a syringe, and then injected into the scarred skin to smooth out the skin and provide it with a fuller appearance. This breast scar removal process may take three to four treatments before results are visible. Unfortunately, this procedure is typically not as long lasting as the others due to the fact that the body absorbs the fat used over time.

You walk out of your home and head to your car. As you turn the key the neighbors watch. They are motionless and speechless at the elegance and beauty of your chest. You step into the restaurant and order a cup of coffee to go with your banana. After all, you’re a pretty woman on a healthy diet. The attending waiter’s jaw drops as he is totally blown away by the gorgeous steaming babe with a great chest who just placed an order. He keeps staring at you. He can’t help himself. Who doesn’t want to be in the spotlight? Glances of admiration are every woman’s desire. They can be yours too. Are some people born with magnificence? Yes they are? Does it matter? No it does not. After Laser Breast Enhancement, they’ll all swear you’ve been a queen of natural beauty. They wouldn’t be able tell if you underwent Laser Breast Enhancement or not. They never do.There are plenty of breast enhancement options in the market. Creams, pills, supplements and even topical solutions exist. But you want something with quicker results. People even save up for invasive surgery. Invasive surgeries are associated with complications. Therefore, many customers have to brace themselves. Laser Breast Enhancement blows away the competition with quick results and efficacy. Find out why Laser Breast Enhancement would be your top choice for breast enhancement.One of the best things of Laser Breast Enhancement is the speed at which the process is carried out. You get fuller breasts in no time. Laser Breast Enhancement also brings nipples and areola in the position that is cosmetically desired. Compared to invasive surgery, Laser Breast Enhancement is a less painful procedure. You could be lying on the surgeon’s table for three hours or spending just 45 minutes while undergoing Laser Breast Enhancement. Where the knife can cause minimal scarring, laser therapy for breast enhancement leaves no scars.The problem with other modalities of breast lifting is that they are temporary. After the treatment, breasts begin to sag all over again. For a more permanent lift, Laser Breast Enhancement is the best option. The complications associated with Laser Breast Enhancement are virtually zero. So how does it work? In Laser Breast Enhancement, a laser delivers heat to tissues of the breast. What happens is that the areas of tissue receiving the heat undergo contraction. In simple words they get shorter. There is also an additional effect. The heated tissues of the breast harden.The plastic surgeon carefully selects the areas of the breast for heat to be delivered to. He then strategically guides the laser to create a framework of tissue beneath the skin. In simple words, Laser Breast Enhancement creates a “permanent bra” made up of tissue right under the skin. On the other hand, tissue that could have made that “organic bra” is discarded in traditional invasive surgery. The kind of laser used for breast enhancement is carbon dioxide laser. Laser Breast Enhancement will benefit all those women who have sagging breasts that create health problems or lower self esteem.

Why do people get lip enhancement? Well, for a very basic reason: because our lips start to get thinner and smaller with age and they don’t seem to be where or how they should be. Yet, lip enhancement is as much popular in young people as it is in older ones. Luscious, pouty lips are the symbol of modern day beauty. Among all the other lip enhancement treatments, Laser Lip treatment is getting equally favorable among the celebrities as well other common people. Several other options for lip enhancement surgeries are also available but laser is safer, more reliable and it lasts much longer.The Laser lip treatment basically starts with two preliminary steps, plumping and enhancing. In the plumping process, the lips are plumped up by using a filler injection. Although no pain is usually experienced in this laser lip treatment process, some patients might require small amounts of anesthetic. The next step involves refining. As one treatment of filler might not be enough, plumping would need to be performed two or three times. However, physicians determine if further refinement is needed or not.Finally comes laser surgery. A very precise laser beam traces a path through the lips which helps resurfacing the skin by removing all the wrinkles and lines cutting through it. This laser lip treatment gives a fresher and smoother look for the new plump and gorgeous lips.Like all laser surgeries, the laser lip treatment is also safe and involves minor or temporary side effects. What makes it even better is the fact that it involves no incisions. Plus, the procedure doesn’t cost too much. The results can be extremely dramatic and up to the desired expectations.Your physician might advice you to avoid usage of certain medicines a week before the laser lip treatment. Ice compresses may also be advised in order to relieve the pain and redness if any. Normally, the patients can go back to their daily routine right after their laser lip treatment. The swelling and bruising will heal within 2 weeks. If you experience any kind of cold sores or infection at the treated area, you should immediately consult your physician for counter medications.If for some reason you are unable to get a laser lip treatment, you must consider other alternatives as well. Theses alternates include Fat Transfer, Collagen, Dermalogen, Hyaluronic Acid or Alloderm, all of which depend on the amount of enhancement you need. If you don’t need much, your physician might suggest the use of fillers only.Considering how prominent features our lips are on our faces, the laser lip treatment should not be left in the hands of inexperienced surgeons. Make sure you choose the best qualified and experienced practitioner so that you get the look you desire rather than one you will regret.

Ingrown hairs are the result of using most common hair removing methods. As all of us need to get rid of extra hairs from our faces and bodies, we typically either shave or wax them away. As a result, we all experience the ingrown hair problem. The ingrown hairs are basically hairs cut too close to the skin that they fail to regrow in a straight and outward direction. Instead, they curl and grow inwards. This results in bumps in the skin, often called razor bumps — which are actually ingrown hairs trapped under the skin surface.

How do ingrown hairs cause scars?

This may not sound like much of a problem, but these ingrown hairs, if left untouched, can get infected and cause further skin problems such as pus formation inside the skin. It is better to take care of the problem at the very initial level, i.e. avoiding occurrences of ingrown hair. Newer techniques, such as laser hair removal, are much safer and permanent; therefore leave no chance of ingrown hair. However, if you have ingrown hair, you should get them removed from under your skin before they get infected. Removing these ingrown hairs usually leaves a scar behind, and that scar looks uglier than the body hair causing it. However, there are several ingrown hair scar removal methods to help you get that silky smooth flawless skin back.

What do ingrown hair scars look like?

Ingrown hair scars generally take one of three forms. The most common are dark spots — patches of hyperpigmentation left behind after the inflammation heals, especially noticeable on medium and darker skin tones. Some people develop raised scars, including keloids, where the skin produces too much scar tissue as it repairs itself. Others are left with small pitted or indented scars, usually from picking or squeezing the ingrown hair. Identifying which type you have matters, because each responds best to a different removal method.

Do ingrown hair scars go away on their own?

Sometimes — but not always. Dark marks from hyperpigmentation often fade gradually over several months, particularly with consistent sun protection. Raised keloid scars and pitted scars, however, rarely improve on their own; these are structural changes in the skin that typically require professional treatment to correct. If a scar hasn't faded after six months to a year, it is unlikely to disappear without intervention.

Non-invasive ingrown hair scar removal options

You don't need to worry at all; almost all of the ingrown hair scar removal methods are highly non-invasive. You can choose among dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, filler injections or fat transfer procedures. However, for the best results, consult an experienced physician who will guide you in choosing the right ingrown hair scar removal treatment according to your condition.

Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion

In dermabrasion, ingrown hair scar removal is done by scrubbing away the layers of skin thus removing the scar tissues. Sand-like crystals are used as a scrub. The amount of skin removed depends on the condition being treated. This ingrown hair scar removal method is considered safe with only minor and temporary side effects.

Chemical peels

Chemical peel is another ingrown scar removal technique which also removes the layers of skin with the scar tissues. But unlike dermabrasion, a peeling agent chemical is used for this purpose. The chemical peel is applied to the skin and it starts to peel of the layer of skin. Although it is a very inexpensive and safe ingrown hair scar removal technique, it has some limitations regarding the pigmentation issues. The peel might not work as efficiently on a darker skin than on a lighter skin.

Laser scar removal: the most effective option

As laser surpasses older techniques in almost every medical surgery, laser scar removal is also considered the best method to use. Not only does it remove the scar tissue, it also resurfaces the skin which makes it the optimal option for bumpy ingrown hair scar removal. Although, this advanced ingrown hair scar removal technique is more expensive than other methods, the results, however, are better than the rest. The laser is safe and involves a quick recovery time with almost no major complication or side effects.

Choosing the right ingrown hair scar removal treatment

Whatever technique you are deciding to choose, do not overlook the importance of an expert's knowledge and understanding in making the right decisions. Also make sure that you choose a qualified and experienced surgeon for your ingrown hair scar removal so to avoid any kind of complications and to ensure the best results.

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Injectable fillers are becoming more and more popular as time goes by. And why shouldn’t they, everybody wants to look young and fresh and these fillers are an excellent way to get that fresh, wrinkle free skin that you always wanted. At first the thought of getting your face injected with a needle may strike some as scary, but haven’t you heard the expression no pain no gain? And it’s not like it’s an extremely painful procedure it’s just a small amount of pain that you’ve got to experience in order to get that perfect skin you always wanted. Still not convinced? Well then if you’re looking for a pain free way to get that perfect looking skin you always wanted then why don’t you try Hydrelle injectable fillers?Wait, hear us out, although Hydrelle injectable fillers are administered in exactly the same way as any other cosmetic fillers they have one massive advantage over the rest of the field. Hydrelle injectable fillers contain a local anesthetic called Lidocaine; this anesthetic makes the whole cosmetic procedure go through a whole lot quicker and smoother for the patient. Due to this very reason Hydrelle injectable fillers have become the premier choice for many renowned cosmetic physicians and plastic surgeons across the country.Hydrelle injectable fillers are also almost side effects free. They do cause some small scale side effects such as the reddening of the skin, itching and minor bruising around the area where they have been injected. But these are part of the package and there’s no need to be alarmed as they are harmless and only last for a few days.Hydrelle injectable fillers require no sort of numbing before they are applied which saves you valuable time that otherwise would have been wasted. Before deciding to use Hyrdrelle injectable fillers to remove your wrinkles it is ideally recommended that you first check out whether you are a good candidate for the procedure. What we mean to say is that Hydrelle injectable fillers are not advisable for people with sulfite allergies and also for those who take regular doses of blood thinning medicines or alcohol.The Hyrdrelle injectable filler treatment generally lasts for around 20 to 45 minutes a session after which the patient is free to go home. Don’t expect instant results from your Hydrelle injectable fillers, it may take around two weeks for the results to be visibly seen.There are certain precautions though, which you should take after you have had the Hydrelle injectable fillers treatment. These include avoiding going out in the sun for long periods of time as well as not using any sort of facial peels or masks after you’ve had the treatment. In the case that you experience some bruising on your skin it is recommended that you take some Arnica and place it under the tongue after every two hours. This is to be done for only the first few days and only in cases where the bruising feels as if it is getting out of control.

Ingrown hairs are not out of the ordinary. Typically all men and women get rid of their body hair by either shaving or waxing. And why shouldn't they? Every body desires a smooth silky skin. No wonder they look wonderful. Yet, it is very common to see itchy bumps on the skin a few days after going through the hair removal routine. If you take a closer look at those, you'll see hair growing inside your skin instead of growing out.

What causes an ingrown hair to become infected?

One of the main causes of these ingrown hairs is that these hairs are cut too short, either with a blade, wax or any other method. When the hair starts to re-grow, it is trapped in the skin and grows inwards instead of growing straight outwards. These ingrown hairs can grow on any area you remove your hair from. Ingrown hair is not a very serious problem itself, and there are several remedies to treat this problem. However, carelessness can lead to infection and severe damage.

Signs of an infected ingrown hair

The ingrown hair can damage the skin which makes it prone to bacteria. These bacteria can form infections in the skin and lead to infected ingrown hair problem. The infection can be redness, itchiness, pain and even pus formations and blisters. An infected hair follicle is referred to as folliculitis in medical terms, while the chronic razor-bump condition is known as pseudofolliculitis barbae. Infected ingrown hairs are mainly caused by carelessness, thus proving that prevention is much better than cure. It is better to get rid of ingrown hairs before the problem becomes worse.

How to treat an infected ingrown hair

In case you were not so thoughtful and the ingrown hair you had becomes infected ingrown hair, your best option is to consult a physician. Normally physicians would prescribe a skin treatment cream or lotion.

If the infection hasn't gone too bad or hasn't yet started in the ingrown hair, rubbing and exfoliating the skin with a scrub can help in letting the hairs come out of the skin. Once noticed, don't let the infected ingrown hair stay in the skin. You can also use tweezers to pull the infected ingrown hair out of the skin. Hydrogen peroxide also helps in reducing the infection. However, a physician must be consulted before applying any kind of chemical or medication to the skin affected by the infected ingrown hair.

Can laser hair removal prevent infected ingrown hairs?

Although it is not a permanent problem, infected ingrown hair problems can make your skin look worse than it looked before hair removal. The best option is to totally avoid infected ingrown hair through better hair removal methods. Laser hair removal removes the hair without the risk of developing ingrown hair. Laser hair removal can also get rid of infected ingrown hairs as well. This treatment might take an hour or longer time depending upon the area you wish to be treated. Laser hair removal might require you to take multiple sessions. The number of sessions may also vary from patient to patient. Usually patients do experience slight pain and burns on the area of treatment. Yet, any severer affect must be discussed immediately with the physician. Your physician will also educate you about the after-treatment dos and don'ts.

Preventing infected ingrown hairs

Although curable, the cause of infected ingrown hair should essentially be prevented as earlier as possible. Always use a clean blade and soften your skin with warm water or shaving cream before any hair removal process. This would save you a lot of time, money and suffering.

A mole is a dark spot on our body or face. If rightly placed and small in size, moles are rightfully called beauty marks as they enhance your beauty. Yet, a big mole on the face is a mark that puts all your beauty in vain. If you have the most perfect eyes, beautiful lips, attractive features, sculpted face and a big ugly mole; the mole alone will grab all of the people’s attention. Along with all the attention, a mole also steals a lot of self-confidence from you. Do you really need to carry it around with you?Moles can be natural, inherited or due to exposure to the sun. It is very common to have moles anywhere on the body but a mole on the face really looks nasty. People with moles on the face are always looking for different ways for mole removal. Moles typically have no medical reasons; neither is health risk involved with them. Such moles are benign, but in rare cases, moles really can be harmful or cancerous. Before you start considering the right treatment for mole removal on face, you must get it checked by a physician.Some of the most conventional ways of mole removal on face are highly invasive, such as cutting or burning. Surgical excision is one of such conventional excision methods of mole removal on face. Although it very effectively removes the mole, it generally leaves behind a scar because of cutting and stitches. Nowadays, laser surgery is getting very much popular as a treatment of mole removal on face. Because of its high precision laser has huge success rate in surgeries. Same goes for cosmetic surgeries. Laser surgery is already widely used for hair removal, wrinkle reduction and now for mole removal on face.In the procedure of using laser surgery for the mole removal on face, a very high precision laser is focused on the mole. The laser burns the mole bit by bit, approximately a fraction of an inch burned in a second. What laser actually does is it breaks the pigment of the mole into smaller fragments of pigment which makes it lighter and smaller. Usually it does require a few more treatments than one but the results are found to be very much visible in just one week. This slow procedure of mole removal on face ensures precision and only the area of the mole is affected.In this process of mole removal on face, there is hardly any scar or discoloration and the pain is as minor as an insect bite. Due to its painless and non-invasive nature, this way of mole removal on face is getting extremely popular despite its higher cost than the typical excision methods. There is almost no recovery time needed and routine activities can be continued immediately. Laser surgery for mole removal on face is extremely suitable for natural moles but for those which appear later in life, a proper check up should be carried out to identify if it is cancerous.So, before you decide to choose laser mole removal on face, consult a physician for proper mole identification and to discus all the risks and limitations involved with the laser mole removal on face.

The need for cellulite treatment in Beverly Hills has become quite essential, especially with over 90% of women being susceptible to having these fatty deposits under their skin in comparison with men. Despite the general misconception which links cellulite with obesity, many leaner women have had these fatty folds around their thighs and buttocks.If you are a California resident and are wondering whether you should seek cellulite treatment in Beverly Hills or not, keep in mind that despite cellulite not being as fatal as obesity, it can still be dangerous. Aside from making you cover your body all the time, the curves of you knees and ankles will hardly be visible with the cellulite folds covering your thighs and calves.So, what does cosmetic medicine have to offer you? Here are some of the methods used for cellulite treatment in Beverly Hills.

Endermologie

This French method for cellulite treatment was developed in the 1980’s and became patented in the Unites States quite recently. This technique uses a device that comes with two motorized rollers and regulated suction. The device creates a symmetrical skin fold which allows deep tissue mobilization, thus the reduction of cellulite.

Body Wraps

Most spas and cosmetic clinics offering cellulite treatment in Beverly Hills have adopted this method. Body wrapping involves enveloping body parts within linens that have been previously soaked in herbal extracts, mud and seaweed. The skin is massaged or brushed with products based on these before being covered in linen. With the body perspiring while being compressed by the linen, the body will shrink. Still, many can say that this is a more temporary cellulite treatment, however, if you have somewhere to go and want to look fab for a night, then body wraps is a good option.

Massage

In comparison with body wraps, massage is a more effective cellulite treatment. With massage, circulation and lymphatic drainage increases while muscular spasms and adhesion decreases. The manual kneading along with the lymphatic drainage results in smoother soft tissue and the elimination of fluids. Still, many consider this cellulite treatment problematic as it doesn’t standardize the amount of pressure applied like Endermologie.

Liposuction

Unlike the other mentioned earlier, this cellulite treatment is a surgical procedure for body contouring. Fat is removed from the reserve fat layers because targeting the cellulite-filled tissue may cause bleeding, swelling and scarring. Still, for those who would like to try this method, many clinics offer it.

Electrotherapy

In a clinic or spa offering cellulite treatment in Beverly Hills you will be able to find electrotherapy on their lists. Using electrical muscle stimulators (EMS), which are prescription devices used in physical therapy, a direct current with ions of salt penetrate the tissue and exert a therapeutic effect. This cellulite treatment can also be used for girth reduction, weight-loss and non-surgical facelifts.There are many creams which boast about being the best cellulite treatment in the world, however, not many people have benefited completely from using them. If you want the best way to rid yourself of cellulite, visit your physician and find out what can suit you.

There is no replacement for speaking with your doctor in person to get to know if they are the sort of person you trust to perform a cosmetic procedure on you. However, meeting with a doctor in person is difficult to arrange, and many times you will find that doctors are unwilling to give you much of their time unless you are willing to pay for the privilege. Fortunately, Epione of Beverly Hills has put on our website a collection of cosmetic surgeon videos so that you can get some idea of the sorts of physician you should expect when you come in to Epione of Beverly Hills. Check out these cosmetic surgeon videos, absolutely free of charge, and while you are at it, have a look at the other cosmetic surgeon videos we have up related to a variety of different conditions and treatments that we offer for them. Using these cosmetic surgeon videos you should be able to quickly, and freely, get a good idea of the options that are available to treat your condition and the sort of results that you can expect from that treatment.These cosmetic surgeon videos show doctors discussing their philosophy regarding cosmetic procedures, and also discussing the exciting new innovative techniques that are employed to achieve the best possible results. Did you know that Botox has been used as an effective treatment to ease the frequency and severity of migraines? Have a look at these cosmetic surgeon videos and hear more about this, and a number of other interesting topics that may have a meaningful impact on your health or physical appearance. In making your decision about which cosmetic surgeon is right for you, wouldn't you be interested to know if your doctor were confident enough in his abilities and qualifications to publicly display both examples of his work, and personal statements standing behind that work? At Epione of Beverly Hills you get exactly that. In these cosmetic surgeon videos talking about exactly the sorts of procedures that you are considering, which they have performed time and time again.You should look around, find as many cosmetic surgeon videos as you can and compare them, it is vital that you get the most comprehensive idea of the number of surgeons in your area, their different areas of expertise, and their different levels of qualifications and experience. You want to make sure that you get a doctor who will help you understand the risks and limitations of any sort of cosmetic procedure. Our cosmetic surgeon videos are aimed at doing exactly that, because the best candidate for any cosmetic surgery is the patient who is healthy both emotionally and physically, who knows what they should be expecting. After you have looked at these cosmetic surgeon videos, you will also have a better idea of the sorts of questions that you should be asking your cosmetic surgeon, making you more likely to be able to ensure you get the best treatment possible for yourself.

This is done regularly and is very popular with customers. These are very safe, convenient and effective procedures that can lessen the signs of sun damage, aging, some skin problems on the face, and age spots. The cost is often much lower than other facial procedures. In laser skin rejuvenation procedures, the damaged areas of skin are removed so that collagen is regenerated and the skin is healthier and younger-appearing.

What is it?

This is a cosmetic procedure that reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and other skin imperfections by dissolving the molecular bonds between area of damaged skin and areas of normal skin. The skin looks normalized and uniform. It is also known as laser skin rejuvenation or a “laser peel” due to the fact that it gets rid of the damaged surface of the skin.

Who is a Candidate?

This procedure is good for those who have areas of skin discoloration, sun damaged areas, wrinkles, marks from acne and other skin imperfections. If you have a lot of scarring, you need to have the scars revised another way before having laser skin resurfacing. You need to be realistic about what to expect from the procedure.

How much does it Cost?

There are a lot of things to consider when determining the cost of the laser resurfacing procedure. The surgeon will charge a fee, the anesthesia will cost something and the facility will charge a fee. There will be preoperative and postoperative care costs. Talk to your doctor about the overall cost of the procedure in your situation.

CO2 Lasers

This is a very high intensity laser procedure. It smooths and tightens the upper layers of the skin and it tightens the bands of collagen in the deeper skin layers. It can get rid of the appearance of almost any birthmark, mole, wrinkle, scar or wart. It can treat early skin cancer, depending on the type.

Erbium Lasers

This type of laser is better for those who have dark skin because it doesn’t lighten the skin. It is less intense than a CO2 laser and they are good for minor wrinkles and superficial discoloration.

What is the laser skin resurfacing like?

You can do this on an outpatient basis using topical local anesthesia to the face.

Pros and Cons of Laser Skin Resurfacing

There are a lot of benefits to this procedure and you may look much better after having the procedure. It is possible that you can get an infection or scarring from the procedure but this is not common. Your skin may look much younger with fewer wrinkles, fewer fine lines and a smoother look to your coloration.

Results and Recovery Time

The time to recovery from this procedure depends on the type of laser done and on how much of the face is done. If you have a great deal of deep work done, you will have the best results in the end, but the recovery time will often be longer. Gentler laser treatments have little to no recovery time but yield lesser results.

The Breakdown of the Cost of a Rhinoplasty

Some people avoid having a rhinoplasty because they feel as though the cost is prohibitive. You may, in fact, be able to afford a rhinoplasty if you use financing from your doctor’s office. Let’s take a look at what costs go into having a rhinoplasty and how you can pay for them. Talk with your doctor about what goes into having your rhinoplasty and how much yours will cost.Speak with your surgeon about the extent of the procedure and how much he or she thinks the procedure will cost. Decide if having the procedure is worth the excessive cost and the pain of having the procedure done. If you have always wanted a rhinoplasty, it may be worth the extra cost and discomfort.

What goes into Rhinoplasty Prices?

You need to think of several factors when planning how much your rhinoplasty will cost. Factor these things into the cost as it is dependent on a number of things.

• The training of the plastic surgeon
• Where you live geographically
• How extensive the surgery is
• What services you will need
• What kind of care you will need after the surgery

The training of the plastic surgeon plays a big role in the overall cost of the rhinoplasty. A surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty will cost more due to his or her extensive experience in the area. While it may cost more, you really do want to have a plastic surgeon who is well trained in doing the procedure because you want good results, regardless of the cost.You also have to think about the care you receive preoperatively and postoperatively. You need to know how much of the facility time you will take up and the medications you need to take during and after the procedure. Don’t forget to include these things when you finance the rhinoplasty procedure.

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — For many years, liposuction has been a popular choice for women who want to target problem areas and achieve a slimmer, smoother and firmer appearance. However, the procedure is not without its drawbacks, posing health dangers to some and short-lived results for others. To combat many of the ‘cons’ of liposuction, Epione Medical Corporation, a state-of-the-art aesthetic surgery center, now offers OptiLipo, a revolutionary alternative to liposuction. The procedure may successfully flush fat, block the ability to store fat and achieve long-lasting results, among other benefits.“At Epione, we offer the latest and most progressive technology and aesthetic procedures in order to help out clients achieve the results they want, and look and feel better than ever before,” said Dr. Simon Ourian^™, medical director. “OptiLipo has quickly become the premier choice for women wanting to get rid of excess fat and cellulite without undergoing anesthesia or having to worry about future weight gain.”

Revolutionary OptiLipo Treatment Flushes Fat, Fights Cellulite and Post-Treatment Weight Gain and Achieves a Smoother, Firmer Skin Surface

During the OptiLipo procedure, problem areas are injected with microscopic quantities of natural plant extracts, homeopathic, pharmaceutical agents and vitamins. The procedure targets fat reduction in desired areas, flushes the fat out and over the course of several sessions, blocks the body’s ability to store fat in those areas, while simultaneously stimulating the body’s ability to burn fat.OptiLipo offers a number of benefits that liposuction does not:

1. OptiLipo is non-surgical procedure that does not require anesthesia, posing far less health dangers than liposuction.
2. OptiLipo achieves a smoother skin surface, and does not enhance preexisting cellulite, which often occurs with liposuction.
3. No extensive medical evaluations or elaborate laboratory data is required prior to undergoing the OptiLipo procedure.

On average, based on the patient’s condition, results can be seen in two to three sessions. Some patients will see immediate results. Treatments are minimally invasive and recovery is immediate.In addition to electing for OptiLipo as an alternative to liposuction, the treatment may also effective for aging skin, redundant or sagging skin, hand rejuvenation and neck rejuvenation.“OptiLipo is one of the most popular procedures for women who want to reverse the signs of aging, regain a more youthful appearance and look fantastic in their clothes and swimwear,” said Dr. Ourian^™. “Schedule a consultation and let’s discuss how OptiLipo can help you get amazing results.”For more information about OptiLipo, or other non-surgical aesthetic treatments offered by Epione Medical Corporation, please call 310.598.2345.

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. — Epione Medical Corporation now offers a solution for the millions of adults and adolescents suffering from the devastating effects of acne scars. The practice’s revolutionary new Coolaser treatment uses advanced laser technology to resurface the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Finally, patients can put their best face forward after years of embarrassment.“Severe acne cases can leave unsightly and embarrassing scars, pitting and skin unevenness that can remain for a lifetime,” said Dr. Simon Ourian^™, medical director. “While acne scars often vary greatly in shape, type and color, Coolaser resurfacing has proved effective in varying cases and has helped patients finally feel good about their skin.”

Epione’s New Coolaser Treatment Shows Remarkable Success in Diminishing Acne Scars and Pitting

The Coolaser treatment, typically an hour long, uses lasers to remove the outermost layer of the skin. First, the entire face is numbed, using a topical cream.After this is done, a series of light pulses are flashed on the surface of the skin. The skin cells absorb the energy of the light, which causes the instantaneous vaporization of the superficial cells and results in a smoother, clearer and more even skin tone.Though healing takes 10 to 12 days, a significant percent improvement in the appearance of the scars may be expected, depending on the type and extent of scarring. A single session may not treat the acne scars entirely if they are too deep. These deeper acne scars can be corrected by injections under the skin to fill in or build up the pitted areas. The injections are done with fillers such as Radiesse, Juvéderm or Restylane.At the initial consultation appointment Dr. Ourian^™ will determine if Coolaser resurfacing alone will treat the acne scars, or if a combination of resurfacing and fillers are needed. For more information about Acne skin treatments and other aesthetic services available at Epione Beverly Hills visit please call 310.598.2345.

Tummy tuck scar revision is becoming more frequent. One of the most common side effects of having a tummy tuck (also called an abdominoplasty) is scarring. This is especially true if someone undergoes a full abdominoplasty, which will create a scar from hip to hip. Most of the time, the incision scar is hidden below the bikini line. For some people, though, the complete desired effect of having a tummy tuck is not complete until a tummy tuck scar revision procedure is performed to minimize the look of the scar. Like most types of scar revision, tummy tuck scar revision makes use of a variety of cosmetic and surgical techniques. All of these techniques are designed to hide the scar in a better location, even out the color and smoothness of the skin at the incision site, eliminate as much of the scar as possible.One of the more frequent tummy tuck scar revision methods used is chemical peel. The technique is designed to dissolve excess scar tissue through a chemical process. The procedure is also effective in evening out color in the surrounding skin.Steroid injections and filler are also an effective tummy tuck scar revision method. Steroid injection can help to reduce the size of scars. filler injection can help to smooth out the contour of scars. Laser scar revision for tummy tucks has really gained popularity in recent years. The technique makes use of laser light to burn away small layers of the scar tissue. Laser surgery is very precise, so it’s less likely to cause any damage to surrounding tissue. Laser revision is also good at evening out the color of scar tissue. The procedure is considered very safe and patients experience very few side effects after surgery.Tummy tuck scar revision may ultimately require surgery. This is very true for deep, large scars. If scar tissue develops abnormally, you might also need to consider a surgical option. Surgical tummy tuck scar revision makes use of state of the art micro surgery techniques, flap revision techniques, and multi layer closing procedures to eliminate deep scars, to cause tissue to heal normally, and even to move scars to new locations, to make them less obvious. As you might expect, having a secondary surgery will be a more expensive option, but it might be the only real option. You will need to consult with the person who did your original tummy tuck, to see what option might work best for you.The surgeon who performed your tummy tuck might not feel qualified to do the tummy tuck scar revision, so they might refer you on. But starting your evaluation with a follow up visit to your tummy tuck surgeon makes a lot of sense.

Lisa Kudrow and Tori Spelling had nose jobs at 16. 17 year old Britney Spears, with mom’s permission, got breast implants. When teens see celebrity peers getting plastic surgery, they may decide that their own looks need improving. Some, like Ashley Tisdale and Soleil Moon Frye, may need surgery for medical reasons, but most teen surgery is cosmetic, not corrective in nature.Teens only make up 2 percent of cosmetic surgery patients in the U.S., but according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number is getting larger. In 2008, 81,885 invasive surgeries were done on teens, ages 13–19, while 219,136 received minimally invasive treatment. Many people think that the average teen requesting this is probably spoiled, rich and overly obsessed with image, but not all fall into that category. The reasons for plastic surgery can vary depending on the circumstances.

Reasons to Avoid the Knife

Teens, being who they are, desire plastic surgery in order to fit in with their friends. They may feel that having bigger breasts or a more defined chin may finally give them the popularity they have always dreamed of. Of course, this is not always the case, and when it fails to change their social lives, they can be devastated.Unfortunately, there are other surgeons who are perfectly willing to do surgery on a teen without screening them first. Parents, too, are occasionally to blame; they may want “the perfect child” and insist that the surgery be done.Because of this, a good surgeon will carefully interview a candidate to make sure they are emotionally stable enough to handle the surgery. The surgeon must also be sure the teen’s expectations are realistic and their motives are correct. Teens with body dysmorphic disorder may not be good candidates; these patients will focus on a specific flaw or other defect (real or imagined), and convince themselves that surgery is the only way to treat it. This condition is best handled by a psychologist or other mental health care professional.

Procedures to Skip

There are a number of procedures that teenagers should avoid. Breast enhancement, in particular with saline implants, is one. This is because the body may not yet be done developing, and the general rule is that the patient must be at least 18. There are a few exceptions, such as birth defects, trauma or diseases that may require breast reconstruction. Silicone can be used for reconstruction purposes by women of all ages, but is limited to 22 and older for enhancement.Since teens often lose baby fat with age, liposuction is not recommended. For teens that have a problem losing weight with just diet and exercise alone, however, it can be used for spot reduction purposes. It should not be used to treat obesity as a whole and is most definitely not a substitute for diet and exercise.

Procedures to Consider

Rhinoplasty can be a suitable procedure for certain candidates. Broken or deformed noses can be fixed by this procedure. Breast reductions are also popular; in Soleil Moon Frye’s case, her large breasts were causing her back and shoulder pain, as well as breathing problems. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels can help teens with severe acne and skin irregularities, and laser hair removal can help those with excessive hair.

Five Important Questions to Ask When Considering Surgery for Your Child

1. Who truly wants the surgery? The teenager must be the one who desires it most; after all, they are the ones who must live with the results. Parents, peers and significant others can offer advice, but they must not pressure the patient into making a decision.
2. Is your child emotionally and mentally mature? A good surgeon will want to be sure the patient understands the process and what will take place before, during and after surgery.
3. How well does your child handle pain and follow directions? The recovery process can be long, painful and draining. As a parent, you can only do so much; your child must be able to handle the rest on their own.
4. Does the child have a realistic outlook on the results? Make sure your child knows that their lives will not radically change after undergoing surgery.
5. Is your child physically mature? Depending on the surgery, this could play a huge role. Breast reductions can be done on patients as young as 15, while other surgeries may have to wait until the child is older.

American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) statistics indicate that breast augmentation was the number one cosmetic surgical procedure performed on women in 2007 and breast reduction was number five on that list. Nearly 400,000 breast augmentation procedures were performed in 2007 and more than 150,000 breast reduction procedures. These numbers clearly indicate that many women have issues with the size and shape of their breasts and are willing to go under the knife to address them.Though not often discussed, it stands to reason that women opting for these surgeries are also concerned with the shape, size and location of the areola. The areola is the pigmented area of skin that surrounds the nipple. There are surgical procedures available to enlarge or reduce the areola and these are often performed in conjunction with the breast augmentation or reduction surgeries.There are now creative, new non-surgical options available to women that are unhappy with the shape or size of their nipples. It is important to many women that their areolae and nipples appear symmetrical, that they not be disproportionate or unmatched in size.Radiesse is a wrinkle filler that can be injected to create a larger nipple, enhancing its size and shape. Radiesse (formerly known as Radiance) is a filler FDA-approved for the correction of facial lines and wrinkles such as nasolabial folds. Radiesse is calcium-based microspheres suspended in a water-based gel and is injected into the skin through a simple, minimally invasive procedure offering immediate, visible improvement and providing long-lasting results.Radiesse can be injected to create a larger nipple and to smooth the texture of the nipple, addressing any asymmetries and improving the overall look of the breast. Radiesse can also be used to reduce the appearance of scars that were the result of previous surgical procedures.When used to treat facial folds and wrinkles, Radiesse is indicated to last for a year or more. Nipple augmentation or correction is a procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis that takes only a few moments. And, as it is non-surgical there are none of the risks attendant with all surgical procedures.

Plastic surgery will not only affect your body, but it can also affect your mind, and this may not necessarily be a positive thing. Anticipation of the surgery, while exciting, can also be draining and stressful. If you are used to seeing your particular flaw every day, as much as you may not have liked it, its disappearance after plastic surgery may leave you disappointed and sad. In addition, family members may notice that the flaw is gone, and their hesitation to approve of your decision to remove it may make you uncomfortable. Lastly, the bruising and swelling, as well as overall pain and discomfort, may add to your depression.Depression after surgery is nothing new. In fact, the symptoms are similar to post partum depression. Disapproval from others, whether verbal or non-verbal, can make you feel angry and alone. Long stares from strangers can do the same. By the same token, the results can feel positive as opposed to negative.Those who are prone to depression and anxiety, as well as personality disorders, are more likely to experience postoperative depression. Many plastic surgeons provide pre- and postoperative counseling to help their patients make the transition, no matter how minor the surgery.

Confidence in Oneself

While plastic surgery can help improve self esteem, you must have a positive image of yourself before you ever undergo a procedure. Ideal candidates do not believe their lives will change completely for the better after surgery; they think positively about themselves in general, and see plastic surgery as a way to eliminate a flaw or problem area.

Great Expectations

Having realistic expectations for your plastic surgery experience is crucial to having a positive mindset later. Remember, the point of plastic surgery is to improve a specific area of your body. It will not necessarily change your life, although this is often a pleasant side effect.In a study done in 2005, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons noted that 75 percent of the respondents stated that they chose the procedure for an improvement in appearance and a more active lifestyle. The same percentage felt they had many more emotional and psychological rewards after the procedure. 45 percent also noted that they felt more attractive, and felt that they were benefited by it.

Important Things To Know

Make sure you discuss what your expectations are with your doctor. This will help you and your doctor synthesize your information, and keep you from developing unrealistic ideas about your surgery. Your doctor will also be able to discuss different procedures with you that may give you the results you want. It is important to distinguish between liposuction and a tummy tuck, and your doctor can help you make that kind of clarification. This kind of communication can help you figure out exactly what type of surgery you need to get your desired look.In addition, you should go over your medical information with your doctor. Cosmetic surgery can be as small as cutting off a skin tag or as major as a facelift; it is in your best interest to give your doctor as much information as you can so he can do the best job possible. In addition, your doctor may need to know some important information that you may not think is important. Do you have sleep apnea? Are you a heavy bleeder? Do you have a family history of circulation problems? Answering these questions may not mean you are disqualified from surgery, but your honest responses could very well keep you alive on the operating table.Patients who may be subject to great emotional changes will be screened by the plastic surgeons during their first consultation. Again, if you show signs of this, you may still be able to get surgery, but you may also be given a few precautionary measures to keep you safe.For those who are a high risk, the surgeon may recommend counseling before agreeing to do surgery. These would include:

• Patients going through divorce or other severe psychological stress may not be ready for surgery at that time,
• Patients with a desire to look "perfect" may also not be ready.
• Patients with mental issues will need to have their psychologist and their surgeon working as a team in order to qualify. This will not only consist of an evaluation of the patient's mental stability, but any medications taken before or after the surgery.

These precautions may seem time consuming and pointless, but as the saying goes, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." It is better for the doctor to be fully prepared going into surgery than to have him attempt to rectify a potentially deadly situation.

Psoriasis

According to the Nation Institutes of Health Psoriasis is a chronic (long-lasting), non-contagious, skin disease of scaling and inflammation that affects greater than 3 percent of the United States population, or more than 5 million adults. There are five types of psoriasis of which plaque is the most common. Typical symptoms for plaque psoriasis include:

• Plaques or lesions of red skin that are often covered with loose, silver scales. Plaques may be itchy, painful and sometimes crack and bleed. Psoriasis is most common in the knees, elbows, stomach, feet, hands, and face
• Crust on the scalp.
• Discoloration and pitting of the fingernails and toenails. The nails may also detach from the nail bed.

There are a variety of causes of psoriasis though some abnormality of the immune system is thought to be key culprit. Psoriasis episodes may be triggered by stress and/or injury to dry skin. Psoriasis also appears to have a genetic component, often running in families though commonly skipping a generation.Treatment for psoriasis ranges from steroids and salicylic acid applied topically; to phototherapy; to systematic and biologic medications for very serious cases.

Vitiligo

According to the National Institutes for Health 1 to 2 million people in the United States have this disorder. Half the people who have vitiligo develop it before age 20; most develop it before their 40^th birthday. The disorder affects both sexes and all races equally; however, it is more noticeable in people with dark skin. Vitiligo may appear in childhood. Adult onset generally occurs in men and women in their late 30s.The main sign of vitiligo is a loss of pigment that produces milky-white patches or depigmentation on your skin. This occurs when the body's cells that produce melanin doe or cease melanin production resulting in slowly enlarging white patches on the skin.There is no proven definite cause of vitiligo though there are several theories. Some believe it's an immune system disorder though there are reports of single event triggers (stress or sunburn for example). It's also believed that the increased occurrence of vitiligo within families indicates a hereditary component.There is no known cure for vitiligo. The goal of treatment is to stop or slow the progression of pigment loss. Sometimes it is possible to attempt to return some color to the skin. Treatment options include steroids applied topically or taken orally and photochemotherapy. In extreme cases surgical intervention may be an option, including skin grafting and melanocyte transplants.

Rosacea

National Institutes for Health data indicates that approximatelyt 14 million people in the United States have rosacea. This disease is most common in:

• Women (especially during menopause)
• People with fair skin
• Adults between the ages of 30 and 60.

Signs of rosacea include redness, papules, and swelling on the face. Though sometimes confused with adult acne, rosacea symptoms do not include blackheads. Rosacea frequently begins as a tendency to blush easily and may progress to persistent redness in the center of the face. Eventually this may spread to the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. In extreme case the nose may thicken to produce a condition called rhinophyma.There is no known cause for rosacea though there environmental, genetic and vascular factors have been implicated. Rosacea suffers are urged to avoid oil-based facial creams and always protect themselves from the sun. Keeping the face physically cool by avoiding hot showers, baths and rooms is also recommended.

Treatment Options include

• Oral antibiotics
• Topical treatment such as Metronidazole cream or gel or creams containing azelaic acid
• Isotretinoin (This medication has serious side effects and is not suitable for everyone.)
• Medications to reduce flushing
• Nutraceuticals that target facial redness, inflammation and flushing
• Anti-inflammatory agents
• Oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents
• Lasers can be used to reduce the appearance of blood vessels

Cellulite is the appearance of small pockets of fat on the thighs, abdomen, and buttocks of 90 percent of post-adolescent women. This uneven dimpling makes is a cause of distress for many and can occur in women of all sizes and shapes.

The Hormonal Connection

Cellulite tends to develop mainly in women undergoing a hormonal change. Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause are all examples of this. Hormones control lymphatic tissue, blood flow, fat storage and connective tissue buildup, all of which are factors of cellulite. Many different changes may happen to the fat layer over time, which can result in cellulite. And, as time passes, its appearance may worsen. A healthy lifestyle may help ease this problem and other treatments are available as well.

Treatments for cellulite focus on its appearance, not its elimination. Also, cellulite can continue to develop throughout out lifetimes, so no treatment can truly get rid of it. However, the appearance of cellulite can be improved by promoting drainage of the lymph nodes, tightening the skin, and enhancing skin tone. A holistic approach is the best way to treat this unsightly problem.

Popular Cellulite Treatments

Endermologie is a treatment that is FDA approved for cellulite reduction. Endermologie uses a set of rollers and regulated suction to massage away the cellulite. The massage stimulates blood flow and connective tissue growth, thus eliminating the cellulite. This procedure is non-invasive and non-surgical. It can also be used for skin toning.

OptiLipo is another treatment that involves small injections directly into the cellulite in order to dissolve it. The body then eliminates the fat with other waste. OptiLipo can be used on any section of the body that contains cellulite or smaller fat deposits, such as double chins or love handles.

Ultralipo is another advanced treatment for cellulite. It combines Transdermal Acoustic Therapy (TAT) and mesotherapy. The TAT treatment uses sonic waves to break up the collagen and releases the skin, smoothing out the texture. The mesotherapy then breaks down the fat tissue so that the body can rid itself of it. Patients may begin to see results soon after their last treatment, which can vary depending on the patient.

Massage in and of itself is excellent for increasing circulation and draining the lymph nodes. It can also relieve muscles spasms and gets rid of tissue buildup. Body wraps can cause temporary fluid loss due to compression and massage. They may use materials such as aloe, seaweed or mud. Unfortunately, massages alone will not decrease cellulite.

Electric muscle stimulators such as TENS units have occasionally been used to treat cellulite. The stimulators use a direct current to break up scar tissue below the skin, as well as fat cells and fluid pockets. Patients should be aware, however, that the FDA does not consider this type of treatment effective for cellulite.

Liposuction has been used to treat fat deposits and cellulite, but the focus is on fat areas, not the cellulite itself. Often, this distinction can be lost. In fact, when a great deal of fat is removed from an area that also contains cellulite it can make the cellulite look worse than it did prior to surgery.

Alpha-hydroxy acids and other creams and gels can help hasten the exfoliation process, which can help with new, tight skin growth. These are also not FDA approved for cellulite removal.

Losing weight can help shrink the size of fat cells, which will get rid of dimples. While diet and exercise can help reduce cellulite's appearance, they can never eliminate it completely. It can, however, make other treatments more effective.

Anika Therapeutics, well known for its research in hyaluronic acid products, has created a filler, Hydrelle as its latest entry to the market. This filler is a hyaluronic acid; it can be used to fill in facial wrinkles. In particular, Hydrelle works best on nasolabial folds, or laugh lines. According to the company, a Hydrelle injection is roughly half the size of a normal filler injection.Side effects are still the same—swelling, redness, tenderness and bruising. However, this is the first filler that contains lidocaine, an anesthetic. As a result, a patient who chooses Hydrelle will have fewer injections and less pain during the process. This will allow the process itself to be completed sooner, and the patient's recovery time will be improved. Physicians will also enjoy the benefit of having a painkiller automatically included in the medication, which saves them the step of having to numb the patient first. Patients interested in this treatment should make an appointment to talk to their doctors as soon as possible.

When looking in the mirror, most people's eyes are immediately drawn to their facial flaws. This can be a constant source of insecurity. While wrinkles might give us character, they can also adversely emphasize our age. Coolaser is a non-surgical method to arrest the appearance of the aging process. The treatment is relatively quick and easy, especially compared to a traditional surgical facelift, resulting in healthier and smoother skin.

How Coolaser Works as a Non-Surgical Facelift

Doctor Simon Ourian™, Medical Director of Epione Beverly Hills, pioneered the development of the Coolaser. "I wasn't happy with the other laser modalities that were available," says Doctor Ourian™, "so I set about to create a treatment process that gave me the precision I needed." Coolaser utilizes a laser light that is absorbed by the water in your skin cells. The absorption in turn causes the instantaneous vaporization or destruction of the cell. As Doctor Ourian™ passes the laser light over your skin, a mere 30 millionth of an inch of tissue is removed at a time. This incredible control allows your Doctor Ourian™ to treat only as deeply as needed, from removing wrinkles to merely refreshing your overall skin appearance. After the damaged skin is removed, new skin will quickly re-grow in its place.

How to Prepare for Coolaser Treatment

You should avoid sunbathing or tanning for up to two months before your treatment. If you have cold sores, you may also want to discuss this with Doctor Ourian™; this treatment may cause stress to your skin and trigger an outbreak. "In this situation I may prescribe a prophylactic course of an anti-viral medication such as Valtrex or Zovirax," says Doctor Ourian™.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The Coolaser procedure is simple:

• Visit Doctor Ourian™'s clinic for an initial consultation. There you will discuss your expectations, as well as your medical history.
• After this is done, you will make another appointment for the treatment.
• Then, after following the pre-treatment instructions given to you, you will go to the office on your appointed day and the staff will prepare you by cleaning and numbing your face.
• The entire process will take between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the extent of the treatment.

Coolaser Recovery and Aftercare

After your treatment, you may experience some swelling. Cold compresses will help with this. Your skin may be sensitive, but refrain from picking at any crusting or you run the risk of scarring. And continue to avoid excessive heat, such as sunbathing or tanning booths. Acetaminophen is recommended for the pain. Last, but not least, temporarily refrain from strenuous activity and keep your skin moist to encourage even healing. The cost for each treatment can range depending on what area is being treated.

The Benefits of Coolaser Skin Resurfacing

The benefits of laser skin resurfacing are obvious—with no cutting, minimal or no bleeding, it evens out skin pigmentation, removes or reduces wrinkles, reduces scars and acne scars and removes discoloration. The results of laser skin resurfacing are long lasting. The minor lines and blemishes will be gone, leaving you with a fresh perspective on your appearance. As with other subtle procedures, you will still look like you, only better.