Laser dermis resurfacing is not a brand new process. CO2 fractional laser laser ablation has existed for 25 years. Despite the fact that laser ablation had been fine for lines and wrinkles, acne scars, sun-damage or elastosis, there was clearly significant risk of bacterial infections, scarring damage and melanin modifications. The side-effects caused this kind of CO2 laser treatment to fall from with laser clinics and subjects as well.

The idea of fractionated laser technologies has been available since ‘04. Basically, Fraxel treatments is where a tiny part of your epidermis to be treated while the all of the intervening areas won’t be ablated. These untouched areas of dermis around the pinholes provides for rapid recuperation.

The minute Fraxel treatments ended up being combined with with a carbon dioxide laser, interest in the aesthetic marketplace catapulted. There are many explanations for this reaction:

1st, there is less recovery time.

Conventional CO2 laser ablation methods carried extended recovery times of around five weeks. Several clients can have erythema (redness) present for up to eight months.

With Fraxel CO2 solutions, your down time is anywhere from 3 to 6 days depending on the power applied. This kind of fast recovery delivers a superior degree of expediency for the ordinary client.

2. Less risk of secondary complications.

Utilizing old-school ablation laser procedures the risk of contamination, damage like hypertrophic scars and pigment variations of hypo or hyper pigmentation had been a lot more widespread even with veteran cosmetic dermatologists.

Due to the fact new fractional CO2 procedures leaves all of the surrounding skin in one piece, the dangers affiliated with this kind of procedure are significantly less.

3. Success.

Though much less of a impressive final result as compared to old-fashioned CO2 laser treatments, that lowered hazard and really good results help make fractionated laser treatments an attractive laser. In comparison to fraxel lasers, fraxel CO2 lasers deliver improved dermis tightening.

Fractional CO2 laser treatments could be repeated as well. For scarring damage, it generally calls for three procedures to decrease any the scar tissue.

There are various Fraxel CO2 lasers on the market:

1. Smart Skin by Cynosure. This unique laser runs to 30 W with a two millisecond period. There are numerous variables which can be picked so the procedure is customized for each and every person.

2. Active FX and Deep FX by Lumenis: This fractional skin is likewise common, yet there can be a couple different treatment sizes which need to be switched out during a treatment.

3. Fraxel Repair from Solta: This laser skin penetrates quite deeply. Make certain you look at an expert skin clinic, as the greatest rate of troubles are already associated using this laser because of the amount of penetration.

4. eCO by Lutronics. This laser skin will be attaining traction inside quite a number of medical offices and utilizes a disorder concept which can be good.

These might be the major fractional CO2 lasers that are typically though of as superior lasers which seem to be easy to use and demonstrate successes. Now there are additional lasers, even so, many can be lower powered and / or case studies tend to be lacking.

Fractional CO2 Laser is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Non Surgical Facelift Non Surgical Facelift is the nomenclature that many medical...
2. Skin Clinic – Sciton BBL Sciton BBLs Cutting Edge Medical Center IPL & Aesthetic...
3. Fractional Laser Resurfacing Fractional CO2 laser ablation has become increasingly popular as...
4. Skin Tighening Skin Tightening: What to expect from your laser skin...
5. Medicals Spas & Laser Clinics in 2009 What happened in medical spas, skin clinics and laser...

A Sciton BBLs is truly the highly regarded IPL system for ipl and laser clinics and plastic surgeons offices. The revolutionary BBLs modules stretches the adaptability of a platform because of most advanced IPL engineering, interchangeable smart filters, head adapters, in addition to precision thermoelectric cooling.

BBLs uses hi-tech technology with each lamp providing part of the energy called for during treatment. This brings about amazing bulb longevity and limitless pulses during its warranty.

The wide number of wavelengths facilitate specific procedures for the majority of complexion situations without the requirement for more handpieces. Their Finesse adapters make it easy for treatment options of difficult to treat locations, producing uniformly treated skin. Using the newest features, superior outcomes, with no throw away parts, BBLs is definitely the most thorough and functional broadband light device you can get.

Here’s merely a handful of Intense pulsed light (IPL) and cosmetic treatments provided by the local laser clinic using this remarkable Sciton technology.

Laser Skin Resurfacing

The light will be sent from a computer controlled device that rapidly reads the region being treated. Medical doctors should control the ablation as well as coagulation meant for both light or serious treatments. As we age, the effects from sun damage and toxins take their cost on the epidermis, causing it to crease, grow sun spots and appear tired. A complexion laser resurfacing routine might reverse most of these issues and bring back a healthy appearance to the affected skin. The two strategies to fractional laser skin and complete resurfacing: full field, and fractionated. During full area resurfacing, the entire expanse of the dermis is treated. The laser is moved over the area and accurately gets rid of the layer of epidermis. The body are going to naturally substitute the earlier, harmed epidermis that is eliminated, with a fresh, healthful layer. Treatments do range from shallow (which could be appropriate for wiping out fine wrinkles, age freckles along with tired looking complexion) to serious, (which is oftentimes utilized to make improvements to your skin tone and texture in addition to remove heavy creases, around complicated regions like top lip and also crow’s feet). With Fraxel resurfacing, the fractional laser removes multiple vertical columns of the dermis, leaving nearby flesh undamaged. This process allows for this energy to penetrate quite deeply for collagen remodeling while the neighboring intact flesh helps bring about speedy healing.

IPL Treatments

Your new Sciton’s IPL light products employs the effectiveness of pulsed light to produce wonderful photo therapy results. Through deciding on the best choice wavelength , a medical expert at the medspa could handle any broad range of skin care situations brought on by your skin aging and coverage. The energy provided with the IPL carefully heats up the top levels of the epidermis. The heat absorbed through the treatment places massages the dermis to build fresh new collagen. Using this method helps re-establish the complexion to its newer phase. On top of that, skin rejuvenation energy focuses on and gets rid of many of the small capillaries which induce redness plus the unwanted brown pigments accountable for age spots and skin lesions.

Undesirable Brown Spots, Melanin & Pigment Treatments

All the energy delivered through the IPL will be absorbed by the unwanted melanin responsible for pigmented lesions in the upper layers of the dermis. During the next few days the skin lesions will probably get darker and then slide off. Other lasers works in a different way. It is really an intra-epidermal laser peel that precisely eliminates your outermost layers of the dermis. Brown spots can be taken off by full-face or superficial resurfacing. Either procedure allows for clients to have easy recovery with softer, more healthy, far more vibrant epidermis, and a fast alteration of epidermis texture and tightening.

Permanent IPL Hair Reduction

Laser or light energy is precisely absorbed with the dark pigment in hair roots and converted to heat energy, killing stem cells in the hair follicle. Efficient hair reduction can only be accomplished during the growth phase. Permanent reduction is recognized as permanent whenever a considerable measure of hair won’t come back for some time longer than the growth cycle. After a series of treatments, many hair is permanently removed. However, if hair should re-grow it’s going to be smaller and lighter .

Internationally, subjects treated with Sciton BBL together with cosmetic laser treatments seem to be thrilled with their medical gains and are not scared to let anyone know.

Skin Clinic – Sciton BBL is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Skin Clinic MD: IPL Why does my dermatologist have an IPL? Medical Spas,...
2. Palomar Starlux or Sciton BBL What should you know about IPL or cosmetic laser...
3. About Laser Hair Removal About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Before laser and IPL...
4. Dermatology Clinic Procedures: Sciton SkinTyte & BBLs Medical centers all around Europe have been combining SkinTyte...
5. Sciton BBL Group Buy From Medical Spa MD’s newest press release: Sciton and...

Image via Wikipedia

What should you know about IPL or cosmetic laser reviews? How about the Sciton BBL or the Palomar Starlux?

Here’s what a physician has to say about these new technologies:

The reason that the Palomar Starlux 500 has a separate handpiece instead of filters is for a couple of reasons. The filters in these less effective units are dichroic, meaning that they reflect the unintended light back so not to reach the target or skin. Dichroic filters are only effective with lasers because only those photons on a 45 degree angle will be reflected back. As you should know IPL stands for intense pulsed light and the light scatters. So if you are trying to reflect light on a fliter coming in at only 45 degrees then you are going to have light pass through the filter because IPL light is scattered and photons will be coming in at angles 30 degrees, 39 degrees, 60 degrees, etc. You get my point.

Second Palomar uses a dual filter. You can read about it in their literature. There are dichroic filters and absorbtive filters. If any light passes through the dichroic filter then the absorptive filter will catch the remaining light that does not need to pass through. So when you compare the light spectrums of what is actually coming out of a Palomar handpiece vs. the Sciton BBL you will get the exact IPL range (525nm – 1200nm for example) to pass through. Because there is an absorptive filter the head would get hot. So Palomar has a cooling mechanism that circulates water through the handpiece to keep it cool. Also it has a contact cooling mechanism which is far superior than the Sciton BBL. If you think all this is BS then check with Palomar for the white paper. I did and so should you.

Sooooo….what does this mean for you?? You have a much more specific IPL that is safer, more powerful and more effective. You can hit the same spot on the face with Palomar’s IPL and not burn anyone, but with the BBL that is not the case. Also, the energy levels of the BBL do not compare with the Palomar. You can get a cheaper IPL on the market with the same amount of energy output as the BBL.

Good to know if you’re looking for laser hair removal or photofacials.

Palomar Starlux or Sciton BBL is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Sciton BBL Group Buy From Medical Spa MD’s newest press release: Sciton and...
2. Dermatology Clinic Procedures: Sciton SkinTyte & BBLs Medical centers all around Europe have been combining SkinTyte...
3. Skin Clinic – Sciton BBL Sciton BBLs Cutting Edge Medical Center IPL & Aesthetic...
4. Skin Clinic MD: IPL Why does my dermatologist have an IPL? Medical Spas,...
5. Skin Clinic MD & Used Cosmetic Lasers We’ve just finished with our new classified listings area...

For those of you who have not yet run one of Frontdesk’s website SEO reports on your site, you’ll want to ASAP. It’s somthing akin to a credit check for your website and gives you a look at your Page Rank, links, SEO, competion, trends, and lets yo knowwhat Google, Yahoo, and Bing think of your website.

The report is free of course, but you’ll undoubtedly receive an email at some time in the future about Frontdesk’s do-it-yourself SEO software or outsourcing services (Which are fantasitc by the way and we use them ourselves). That’s the trade of course, which is fine. After all, we’re all capitalists here.

Here’s what Frontdesk SEO says about their SEO software.

Frontdesk SEO was founded by Internet Marketing leaders with decades of combined industry experience. We believe in the idea that internet marketing, specifically search engine optimization, can be simplified and broken down into individual action items that any business owner can do for themselves given the appropriate guidance. We have used our expertise to develop a technology platform to accomplish better search engine visibility for clients that utilize our software. The software tells them what to do, when to do it, and why we do certain actions and show results through marketing reports. This will allow clients to gain more traffic as a result of better ranking online.

Skin Clinic Internet Marketing & SEO is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Free SEO Website Report Free SEO report for your medical spa or plastic...
2. Selecting The Best Website SEO Keywords & Phrases For Local Skin Clinics? If you happen to be thinking about getting started...
3. Skin Clinic Click Fraud Is click fraud costing your skin clinic or medical...
4. Skin Clinic MD & Used Cosmetic Lasers We’ve just finished with our new classified listings area...
5. Plastic Surgery, Skin Clinic & Medical Center Click Fraud If you’re one of the many aesthetic clinics, dermatology...

3-D imaging has emerged as a modern method that helps cosmetic surgeons and patients visualize outcomes.  There is a high demand for a tool that allows people to see what they might look like after cosmetic surgery.  The old days of red and blue tinted glasses are gone, and the newest version of 3-D uses sophisticated computers to create lifelike images. Disney, Pixar, and Dreamworks have brought three-dimensional animated features to movie theatres, with blockbuster reviews. Patients are often surprised to find the same technology used in films like James Cameron’s Avatar in their cosmetic surgeon’s office.

Most commonly, 3-D simulations are used to imagine breast augmentation, nose reshaping, and chin sculpting.  Dr. Charles Mok at Allure Medical Spa has been using this tool for the past year and it has changed the way he does consultations with patients.  ”The 3-D simulator helps me to communicate in a specific way and set the patient’s expectations.  When they are realistic about what can be achieved with surgery, they are much happier after having a procedure,” says Dr. Mok. Michelle, mother of four, knew she wanted breast augmentation but was apprehensive about the size; using 3-D imaging we were able to show her what she could expect to look like.  ”After seeing what my outcome would look like and comparing three different sizes.”

Skin Clinic Imaging From The Movies? is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Rosacea Skin Treatments Rosacea laser treatments can be particularly effective in treating...
2. Skin Clinic MD: IPL Why does my dermatologist have an IPL? Medical Spas,...
3. Botox & Nose Jobs becoming more popular in India A pointed nose and taut skin seem to have...
4. Skin Clinic: Botox & Dysport Botox &  Dysport are now offered at almost any...
5. Skin Clinic News – March 23, 2009 New York Doctor Fined $20000 for Injecting Patients With...

For 2010 Americans dream of cosmetic makeovers that tighten abs and leave a brighter smile, rather than those that erase worry lines and lift sagging facial features.

A poll of 2,227 U.S. adults by Harris Interactive on behalf of RealSelf.com found that more than half of all adults (54%) would choose cosmetic work if money wasn’t a concern, and of those who would have work done, the majority (52%) would choose teeth whitening, followed by tummy tuck surgery and liposuction. Not surprisingly, a majority of women (67%), as well as 40% of men said they would also have cosmetic work done.

Few cite Botox as wanted.

In spite of being the most popular cosmetic procedure in the World, just 6% of the survey respondents who would choose cosmetic treatments indicated a desire to get Botox to treat face wrinkles. However the number rises to 15% among women aged 45-54.

Cosmetic Makeover Wishlist Shows Teeth Whitening Most Wanted

If money were not an issue, consumer interest by gender include:

 

Procedure	% of total	% of women	% of men
Teeth whitening	52	51	55
Tummy tuck	29	39	13
Liposuction	29	34	19
Hair removal	25	31	16
Face lift	14	18	6
Laser skin treatment	13	16	7
Cellulite treatment	12	18	1
Hair replacement	11	5	20
Breast implants	10	15	1
Botox	6	3	8

The survey found the average teeth whiteing cost to be $417.

Looks like Shine Teeth Whitening is hitting the market at exactly the right time.

Teeth Whitening Comes In At #1 Most Requested Cosmetic Treatment is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Professional Teeth Whitening At Your Local Skin Clinic As cosmetic teeth lightening surpasses $300M per year and...
2. Skin Clinic News – March 23, 2009 New York Doctor Fined $20000 for Injecting Patients With...
3. About Laser Hair Removal About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Before laser and IPL...
4. Rosacea Skin Treatments Rosacea laser treatments can be particularly effective in treating...
5. Bootox? Botox & Restylane injections for women’s high heels. I came across this article from Australia on Botox...

A few more reasons to kick the habit…

Smoking can make your teeth yellow, dull your skin, make your hair stink, and emphasize little lines around your mouth. But the drawbacks aren’t just an above-the-neck issue.

A University of Michigan study found smoking has an aging effect on every inch of skin. According to researchers, the total number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day and the total years a person has smoked is linked with the amount of skin damage a person experiences from head to toe.

In the past, several studies had been done to measure the premature skin-aging affects of smoking, but they were focused mainly on the face. This is the first study of its kind to show that cigarettes can actually cause your entire body’s skin to wrinkle, yellow and become coarse.

Although there are treatments to help undo these unattractive effects, your appearance, and more importantly, your health, will be better if you simply stop smoking or never start.

Skin Clinic MD: Smoking causes body wrinkles is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Medical Esthetician Training for your Skin Clinic Injectable products are an important contributing factor to your...
2. Radiesse Filler Injections & Your Skin Clinic Skin Clinic MD: Radiesse Filler Injections A common skin...
3. Skin Clinic News – March 23, 2009 New York Doctor Fined $20000 for Injecting Patients With...
4. Skin Clinic MD: Esthetics Training Book  The Advanced Medical Spa Esthetics Training Course & Study...
5. Medical Spa MD: Understanding Botox & injectables. From Medical Spa MD: Understanding Botox & Injectables. Injectable...

Active FX laser skin resurfacing is gaining popularity at medical spas, laser centers and skin clinics. It’s main competitors are Thermage, Fraxel, and other skin tightening or laser skin resurfacing treatments.

Here’s an overview of Active FX and some links to more information.

The goal of laser skin resurfacing is simple: replace damaged skin with new, fresh skin. Techniques for skin resurfacing have made enormous advances, allowing nearly everyone to achieve close to flawless complexions. Many systems allow for light, moderate or deep laser resurfacing. The primary targets of laser skin resurfacing include:

• Fine lines and wrinkles of the face, especially around the upper lip, cheeks and forehead
• Loose eyelid skin
• Crow’s feet around the eyes
• Pucker marks (smoker’s lines) and frown lines
• Brown spots and splotchy, uneven skin tone
• Scars, especially acne scars
• Loose skin around the neck and jowls

How it Works

One of the standard laser resurfacing systems, the UltraPulse® CO2 laser delivers thousands of tiny laser pulses in a pattern over the skin. Each pulse heats a column of tissue eliminating pigment discolorations at the surface and creating a zone of heating deep in the tissue. Unique to the UltraPulse Encore, these zones of heating shrink collagen and tighten the skin immediately*. The CO2 laser also offers the benefits of heating deeper layers of skin tissue, thereby stimulating collagen remodeling, tightening* the skin further. Patients can select from a range of treatments depending on the needs of your skin and lifestyle.

What is ActiveFX “fractional” laser resurfacing?

ActiveFX is a fractional laser procedure performed in a single treatment with minimal patient downtime. During the procedure, a high-energy beam of laser light is used to smooth out lines, wrinkles and scars, remove brown spots and other irregularities, and tighten the skin. It also stimulates formation of new underlying collagen to continue improvement over time. With fractional laser treatment, only a fraction of the skin’s surface is treated by the laser, leaving small “bridges” of untouched skin. This technique makes the healing process much faster and enables you to get back to normal activities sooner.

Is ActiveFX right for you?

Treated areas should be washed twice a day with cool water and a mild soap. Use our lotion twice daily to treated areas for 3 to 5 days or until healing is complete. Treated areas should be protected from direct exposure to sunlight. Sunscreen with SPF greater than 15 should be used at all times on the treated areas.

ActiveFX is ideal for you if you:

• Have a busy lifestyle or cannot be away from work for a long time
• Want noticeable results with minimal downtime
• Want to treat dyschromia, fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity

What you can expect from ActiveFX

Most physicians perform the procedure in the office with a topical anesthetic cream that is applied 30-40 minutes before the ActiveFX procedure begins. There is little to no pain associated with the procedure – most patients say they feel warmth similar to sunburn. You can drive yourself home after the procedure. With a gentle washing and moisturizing regimen, your photodamaged skin will begin to flake off within 2 days. After about 3-5 days, your doctor will probably let you wear make-up. Pinkness should be gone in about a week.

ActiveFX benefits

ActiveFX treatment produces a dramatic effect on the skin:

• Causes immediate skin tightening
• Reduces wrinkles and fine lines, and softens deeper frown lines
• Noticeably improves skin tone and texture
• Stimulates new collagen formation and plumps the skin

The results of ActiveFX laser treatment are long-term and, with proper sun protection, can persist for many years. Most effects of treatment become visible right away, whereas others – such as new collagen formation, which leads to continued inner tightening – build up gradually and become more evident over time. Therefore, most people look even better 3-5 months after the procedure.

Additional Information on ActiveFX

http://www.aesthetic.lumenis.com/wt/page/activefx

http://www.lumenis.com/wt/page/pr_1170434066

Redness after IPL & Laser Treatments: DeepFX & ActiveFX

Reliant UltraPulse Fractional CO2 Laser

For Physicians using Active FX: Medical Spa MDs Physician user groups.

Active FX: Physician User Group ~ Medical Spa MD

Active FX Laser Skin Resurfacing is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Fractional Laser Resurfacing Fractional CO2 laser ablation has become increasingly popular as...
2. Non Surgical Facelift Non Surgical Facelift is the nomenclature that many medical...
3. Skin Tighening Skin Tightening: What to expect from your laser skin...
4. Skin Clinic News – April 6, 2009 ActiveFX and DeepFX laser skin rejuvenation - Lumenis ActiveFX...
5. Thermage Skin Tighening Thermage is FDA approved for tightening and thickening skin...

In this article, I will give you several tips and tools to evaluate your laser centers culture and operations, so you can successfully navigate any economic downturn… And live to sell another day when the inevitable upturn comes around.

What is the Passion and Purpose of Your Medical Spa?

You reap what you sew. When you engage proactively and passionately in your business you will undoubtedly be successful and see your practice expand. It helps to articulate your passion for your medical spa.

At Assara Laser, our passion is to “help clients look and feel great, not fake.”

Why the Recession Drastically Affects Your Laser Clinics Bottom Line

You’ve probably noticed that generating revenue is not as easy as it once was. There are myriad reasons for this; from the decline in disposable income, to unemployment hitting record highs and tanking real estate valuations. As if these facts were not bleak enough, credit markets are virtually frozen so business owners are finding it nearly impossible to obtain small business loans and lines of credit. Refinancing current loans has become difficult for small businesses.

In short, we’re operating in the perfect storm.

Accepting Reality and Responsibility Today

The easy way out is to close up shop and blame the recession. This will not help you going forward, it will not pay your devoted employees their wages, and most of all, it will not help your clients “look and feel great, not fake.” So, accept responsibility.

The hardships of the recession create a fact-pattern, problem to be solved; not a reason for failure. To paraphrase Michael Jackson, start, first, with the man in the mirror. Think about the following questions. And pay attention – there will be homework at the end of this article!

Finding Your Medspas Winning Competitive Difference?

Let’s be honest. The quality of your laser clinc’s treatments are probably not drastically better than that of your competitors. The proprietary equipment and IPL or laser systems (Thermage, Fraxel, Titan) that you use are, for the most part, available to the competitive skin clinic market at large.

You may believe (and tell clients) that your microdermabrasion treatments are better because you use a diamond-tipped wand or aluminum oxide crystals. You may think that your IPLs or laser hair removal treatments are better because you use cryo-cooling or because you use chilled air cooling, or because you use a diode laser or because you use alexandrite lasers . . .

BUT . . .

Step in to your clients’ shoes. To them, the bells and whistles of your Thermage or Fraxel device don’t matter. Your clients already expect expert advice and cutting edge cosmetic lasers, IPLs and skin tighening equipment, so merely meeting this fundamental requirement is not a winning competitive difference.

What does matter to your clients are presentation, client interaction, customer service, reliability and consistency. Consider this carefully.

What is each of your medspas clients worth?

At Assara Laser, one of the most popular packages is our $449 per month Unlimited Laser Hair Removal Program. On average, a client that signs up for this program will remain a member of the Program for 7 months, depending on the results they wish to achieve. How much is a single unlimited client worth to us?  A client in the program for 7 months, making a monthly payment of $449 is worth $3,143. For many laser clinic owners, a single laser hair removal client is worth more than a home mortgage payment!

Do you treat every single potential laser treatment client that contacts your laser clinic as if they’re worth $3,000?

What is your time and effort worth?

Before my partners and I built Assara Laser, I was an attorney. I still practice corporate law as a labor of love, when a friend or business contact has an exciting deal. I normally discount my rate to about $400 per hour, as law isn’t my primary source of income.

Assume an hour of your time is worth $400.  Assume further that, every time your customers complain, you are willing to give a discount, or a free treatment and that, collectively, free and discounted treatments account for a 20% loss in your revenue. To make up for this lost revenue, how much more work do you have to do?

Well, let’s add 20% to your 10 hour day, which now makes it a 12 hour day. If your annual sales are say $1,000,000 per year, you’ve lost $200,000. This translates into 500 hours more of work you must do to bring your revenue back to status quo!

Is there a big difference between a day that starts at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 7:00 p.m. versus ending at 9:00 p.m.  You betcha there is!  Is there a big difference between a loss of $200,000 and a loss of zero. You betcha there is!  And these differences drastically affect your quality of life.

Running your medical spa or laser center is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Medical Spa Marketing: Be remarkable. If you want to be remarkable you have to...
2. Medical Esthetician Training for your Skin Clinic Injectable products are an important contributing factor to your...
3. Medical Spa MD: Understanding Botox & injectables. From Medical Spa MD: Understanding Botox & Injectables. Injectable...
4. Skin Clinic News – March 23, 2009 New York Doctor Fined $20000 for Injecting Patients With...
5. About Laser Hair Removal About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Before laser and IPL...

Related Skin Clinic Articles:

• DIY Laser Market Exploding, Cosmetic Surgeons Not Happy (wired.com)
• DIY Laser Hair Removal And DIY Botox Markets Expanding [Household] (gizmodo.com)

Home Laser Hair Removal is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. About Laser Hair Removal About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Before laser and IPL...
2. Bikini Line Laser Hair Removal Bikini line laser hair removal can be classified in...
3. Skin Tighening Skin Tightening: What to expect from your laser skin...
4. Skin Clinic MD: IPL Why does my dermatologist have an IPL? Medical Spas,...
5. Fractional Laser Resurfacing Fractional CO2 laser ablation has become increasingly popular as...

 
The Advanced Medical Spa Esthetics Training Course & Study Guide is a two part learning cirriculum for non-physicians.

With 165 pages of quality content, this course is delivered in two parts that include a text book and a study guide. Use this course to train your staff and give them the information they need to make your medical spa a success.

Medical Esthetician Training Manual & Study Guide – $247

Medical Spa MD training manuals and ebooks are excellent resources for laser clinics, skin clinics, laser centers, and medspas.

Skin Clinic MD: Esthetics Training Book is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Medical Esthetician Training for your Skin Clinic Injectable products are an important contributing factor to your...
2. Medical Spa MD: Understanding Botox & injectables. From Medical Spa MD: Understanding Botox & Injectables. Injectable...
3. Top Medical Spa MD Blog Posts Medical Spa MD: Top 10 Blog Posts The 10 most...
4. Skin Clinic Click Fraud Is click fraud costing your skin clinic or medical...
5. Clinical Exchange of Laser Treatments for Medical Spas, Laser Clinics, & Skin Clinics When it comes to the cosmetic laser field, we...

In principle, there's no difference in clinical outcomes bet the Thermage TC and the Thermage NXT. However practically speaking there is because of the shorter lapse time between pulses on the Thermage NXT machine that one can get better results from it than from the Thermage TC.

The effective clinical targets are to heat collagen containing dermal layer to 56-60 degree celsius AND to maintain such temp range for 1-2 mins (though my goal is 2-3 mins long). Therefore the more rapid pulse firing of the NXT device would make it easier for the treater to "get there and stay there" more efficiently. Personally, I don't have such problem using the TC device (by the way, I have both devices). When using the TC device, you want to make smaller sections on the face or abdomen or wherever then start and finish one section at a time. Make sure that within each section that any treated 3cm square per pulse is "re-pulsed" within 30-60seconds, this will ensure that any heated square will be effectively brought to the correct temp range and maintained there for those 2 mins.

One more thing you asked was about the Alma Accent, it is of the "same" monopolar RF platform technically speaking combined with bipolar RF. The difference which I see is with Thermage tips you know for sure they deliver the RF at consistent depth (2.4 mm or 4.3mm depending on the tips STC or DC). With the Alma Accent, I don't think the company has been able to provide the exact information on this thu I heard the depth was about 2.4 also but not any deeper.

More discussions about Thermage and Fraxel at Medical Spa MD.

Thermage NXT vs Thermage TC vs Alma Accent is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Thermage Skin Tighening Thermage is FDA approved for tightening and thickening skin...
2. About Laser Hair Removal About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Before laser and IPL...
3. Skin Clinic News – April 13, 2009 Latest Girls Pages » Blog Archive » 151 Beauty...
4. Clear Clinical Acne Treatment Program All you need for clear, acne-free skin. Clear Clinical...
5. Solta Medical Reports Third Quarter 2009 Results Solta Medical Reports Third Quarter 2009 Results Provides full...

Within the last few years the technologies around cosmetic Fractional Skin Rejuvenation or Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing has changed to eliminate many of the older technologies shortcomings. The erbium laser used in the Starlux is divided or ‘fractionated’ into many tiny micro-beams which treats only a portion of the skin (think tiny pin pricks) and leaves the surrounding skin intact and greatly improves the healing time.

These ‘fractionated’ treatment areas are referred to as micro-treatment zones and cause just enough injury to the layers of the dermis to trigger new collagen production and stimulate the replacement of collagen damaged by aging and sun exposure. This production of new collagen ‘fills in’ or ‘plumps’ the underlying dermal tissues and smoothes wrinkles. The surrounding, untreated skin speeds the healing process to a mere 3-4 days. Since most of the pigment cells remain intact, hypo pigmentation is effectively prevented.

Starlux 1540: Palomars New Fractional Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing Technology

The Fraxel and Starlux 1540 are non-ablative lasers that don’t actually vaporize or remove the skin. Instead, the laser instantly heats the skin, stimulating new collagen growth.

Results for skin laxity and wrinkle smoothing are less dramatic than with ablative lasers, but the benefit of reduced recovery time and reduced side effects are mean that non ablative laser treatments are often the patients first choice.

Starlux Fractional Ablative Laser Resurfacing In The Near Future

Starlux 2940 fractional ablative lasers now provide the benefits of fractional treatments (less down time and reduced complications) with ablative skin resurfacings benefits (better wrinkle removal and facial rejuvenation) offering patients the best of both worlds.

These newer fractional ablative lasers remove tissue in the micro treatment zone instead of just heating the dermis like the old Fraxel or Starlux 1540.

The benefit of this new form of fractional laser ablation is that more wrinkled, sun damaged skin is removed than with the older laser technologies, and a better cosmetic result is attained. There is some increase in recovery time with redness and pink skin for around 5-6 days. The Starlux fractional ablative lasers still require much less recovery time than the old non fractional erbium and CO2 ablative lasers which actually burned off the top layers of the dermis.

Competing Fractional Laser Technologies

Reliant (the company that makes Fraxel) has launched a new CO2 fractional laser called Repair

Lumenis: CO2 fractional ablative lasers; ActiveFX & DeepFx

Palomar: Starlux 2940 Erbium fractional ablative skin resurfacing laser. Author Resource:- Medical Spa MD is a cosmetic medical community of Plastic Surgeons, Cosmetic Dermatologists, and Aesthetic Physicians with more than 3,500 physician members. Medical Spa MD offers wholesale Botox online and provides information on nonsurgical cosmetic medical technologies and treatments.

Palomar Starlux 2940: Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Non Surgical Facelift Non Surgical Facelift is the nomenclature that many medical...
2. Fractional Laser Resurfacing Fractional CO2 laser ablation has become increasingly popular as...
3. Skin Clinic News – April 6, 2009 ActiveFX and DeepFX laser skin rejuvenation - Lumenis ActiveFX...
4. Skin Tighening Skin Tightening: What to expect from your laser skin...
5. Skin Clinic News – April 13, 2009 Latest Girls Pages » Blog Archive » 151 Beauty...

However, Dypsort has actually been available in Europe for therapeutic indications since 1991 and for cosmetic applications since 2001. In April 2009, Dysport (officially known as BoNT-A/D) was approved in the United States for the “temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines.” These are the lines between your eyebrows. However, just like Botox Cosmetic, Dysport can be used “off-lable” for treatment of crow’s feet (squinting lines around your eyes), forehead wrinkles, chemical brow lifts, platysmal bands (neck bands) and sweaty palms and armpits.

The molecule in Dysport is exactly like Botox Cosmetic but is covered by a different coating, which dissociates (dissolves) at a different rate. That is why the onset of action of Dysport is thought to be faster than Botox Cosmetic since the coating comes off faster. In Botox Cosmetic Treatment the usual onset of action is 3 to 7 days where the Dysport onset of action seems to be a few days faster. The dosing is different with Dysport, so there may be some confusion when translating Botox “units” with Dysport “units.” This is why you need to see an injector who has experience specifically in Dysport injections. Also, there is a learning curve with Dysport injections, so you may not initially achieve the same results as you are used to receiving with Botox Cosmetic.

There is also some confusion about the pricing of Dysport with many reports on the Internet and advertising claiming that it is cheaper than Botox Cosmetic. There is a discrepancy in the potency of units. A “unit” of Botox is not equivalent to a “unit” of Dysport, so unit pricing is not comparable. There is a slight savings with Dysport, but it is about 5% – nothing substantial. So, do not expect to go to your plastic surgeon to achieve the same results as Botox Cosmetic for half the price. However, with competition, hopefully prices will come down. Allergan (Botox Cosmetic) is currently offering a $50 mail-in rebate for Botox Cosmetic customers and Medicis Aesthetics (Dysport) is offering a $75 mail-in rebate. With these rebates and introductory pricing, you may be able to get a better deal than your last injection.

In the end, it is great to have another minimally invasive product approved on the market which can give consistent and noticeable results with virtually no downtime and minimal risks.

Dysport: The New Botox? is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Medical Spa RX: Botox & Dysport MedicalSpaRX.com sells Dysport, Ipsen's newest introduction the the cosmetic...
2. Skin Clinic: Botox & Dysport Botox &  Dysport are now offered at almost any...
3. Botox: Single use? Is your medical spa using a new vial of...
4. Skin Clinic MD: Single use Botox? Is your medical spa using a new vial of...
5. Wholesale Botox from Canada? Image by Getty Images via Daylife Discount Botox from...

Medical Spa MD is now publishing training manuals and books for laser clinics, plastic surgery centers and dermatology clinics.

These medical spa training eBooks are designed specifically for medical estheticians, cosmetic laser and IPL technicians and front desk staff, to provide a consistent environment for new hires and keep the staff informed the latest cosmetic treatments.

It's part of an evolving plan to be able to monetize the huge community of plastic surgeons, dermatologists, laser clinics and medical spas that are part of the community at Medical Spa MD. There are more than 4,000 physician members running laser clinics, medical spas, and skin clinics, and around a million and a half targeted page views, most of which are from physicians (although non-physician numbers are growing).

Medical Spa MD is a community that was started a few years ago and I think it demonstrates how effective you can be if you have information that is not generally available, and know how to build and motivate an online community. Medical Spa MD will never make me rich, but it's an asset that accrues increasing value over time and more than pays for itself with new opportunities.

Medical Spa RX is the sister site to Medical Spa MD and allows these same dermatologists, plastic surgeons and laser clinics to buy wholesale Botox, Juvederm, Restylane and Dysport from Canada and distribute it world wide.

But perhaps the greatest value of Medical Spa MD is simply the trust and goodwill we've grown among physicians. Medical Spa MD's influence and reach is very long, as attested to the numerous leagal threats, phone calls from lawyers, and cease and desist letters we've received.

Medical Spa Training Manuals & Books for Medical Estheticians & Laser Clinic Staff is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Skin Clinic MD: Esthetics Training Book  The Advanced Medical Spa Esthetics Training Course & Study...
2. Medical Esthetician Training for your Skin Clinic Injectable products are an important contributing factor to your...
3. Medical Spa MD: Understanding Botox & injectables. From Medical Spa MD: Understanding Botox & Injectables. Injectable...
4. Top Medical Spa MD Blog Posts Medical Spa MD: Top 10 Blog Posts The 10 most...
5. Skin Clinic MD – Medical Assistant’s can not inject Botox! I’ve seen and head about medical estheticians, medical assistants...

Facelifts have become a common cosmetic surgery for men and women. But surgery patients face a number of unwanted effects. Scarring, extensive recovery time, that artificial "stretched" look, and a permanent result that may be unwanted.

Fortunately, newly developed medical alternatives offer results to people wanting look younger without going under the knife.

As a leader in non-invasive cosmetic medicine, many medical spas, laser clinics and skin clinics now specialize in innovative new medical treatments for a youthful lift without the messy and painful recovery. Some medical spas have developed a unique non-surgical facelift for patients looking to gain the dramatic results of a surgical facelift but avoid a surgical facelift. Non-surgical facelifts include Thermage or Fraxel Skin Tightening followed by their signature Surface Point Lift as the non-invasive, yet exceptionally effective substitute for any surgical facelift. (Botox is also used.)

Thermage is an FDA approved radio-frequency technology that has been proven to tighten and contour the skin and its many underlying tissues without surgery. The treatment has the added benefit of stimulating the growth of new collagen throughout the skin. But there's a caveat. Thermage results are highly dependant upon the way the treatment is administered. Surface has developed specialized protocols that produce results that attract patients from other areas of the country who are looking to achieve maxim results.

Nonsurgical facelifts can be just as spectacular.

Point Lifts were created by specialists in non-surgical cosmetic medicine to replace the traditional invasive facelift. It can also be used for brows, jaw lines, necks, breasts, and even the derriere. They're perfect for the patient who does not want to undergo the harsh effects of a traditional surgical facelift including the associated, frustrating recovery period. Point Lifts are a physician procedure that "lifts" the treatment area in exactly the same was as surgical lifts, only there's no surgery.

The procedure involves placing a small, special suture under the skin through a tiny needle hole, leaving the skin to smooth with its own tension. The theme here is "No cutting. No stretching. No Stitches. No scars!" Most importantly, Point Lifts will not leave the face with that "stretched look" of traditional surgical lifts. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately with only minimal discomfort. Best of all, Point Lifts are completely reversible. Most people never knew they could have a fresh, younger lift without the troubles of surgery.

Avoid A Facelift: Medical Spas, Laser Clinics, Skin Clinics & Laser Treatments. is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Thermage Skin Tighening Thermage is FDA approved for tightening and thickening skin...
2. Non Surgical Facelift Non Surgical Facelift is the nomenclature that many medical...
3. Medicals Spas & Laser Clinics in 2009 What happened in medical spas, skin clinics and laser...
4. Clinical Exchange of Laser Treatments for Medical Spas, Laser Clinics, & Skin Clinics When it comes to the cosmetic laser field, we...
5. Looking for a Skin Clinic? There are many medical anti-aging options available today, but...

Mesotherapy vs. Liposuction is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Liposuction Patient Training Video: Using thin liposuction cannulas. Liposuction Training Video: Why thin liposuction cannulas give the...
2. Tumescent Liposuction vs. Laser Liposuction – Medical Spa MD Liposuction: Is tumescent or laser liposuction better? Plastic Surgeons...
3. Botox & Nose Jobs becoming more popular in India A pointed nose and taut skin seem to have...
4. Skin Clinic News – November 4, 2009 Anyone Had Liposuction In A Medical Spa That Left...
5. Medical Spa Marketing: Blogging for your medspa. First, if you’re not blogging for your medical spa, ...

Laser Hair Removal Clinic Procedures

Generally, most IPL treatments technically operate the same way when performing a hair removal procedure. The parameters on the cosmetic laser or IPL (joules, milliseconds, pulse, etc.) should be set according to the skin analysis and history performed on the patient.

It is important to instruct clients not to wear dark clothing near the area to be treated as the pigment in the clothing could potentially be absorbed by the Intense Pulsed Light Device (IPL) or cosmetic laser light and can result in a burn. The patient should be instructed to refrain from using any body washes, lotions, cosmetics, or any skin medications the day of the treatment.

Some patients may prefer to have a topical anesthetic applied prior to the procedure. If any residue of the anesthetic remains, it should be wiped clean from the skin. Often a cooling gel or other cooling apparatus is applied to the skin.

A spot test should be performed on the intended treatment area. (Small white sheets of paper with perforated holes are often available for spot testing patients.) In the spot test procedure, the test paper is placed over the area to be treated and one firing of the laser or IPL device is applied over the hole in the paper. After waiting 10 to 15 minutes, the area is checked for unusual redness swelling, bruising, or any other undesirable responses. If the area emits a slight reddish hue with no other abnormalities, the device settings are optimal.

Some cosmetic lasers or IPLs require a second pass over the treatment area with different settings.

Hair Removal Clinic: Post Treatment

After a aesthetic laser or IPL hair removal treatment he patient may experience a mild burning sensation and redness following the hair removal procedure. This is can be expected and can be relieved by applying ice packs and an oral anti-inflammatory or pain medication if warranted by the physician. Exposure to ultraviolet light (sun, tanning beds/booths) should be avoided. A sunscreen with an SPF 20 UVA and UVB protection should be applied to the skin prior to leaving the office.

In the case of burning or blistering a topical antibiotic medication should be applied and the skin clinics physician should be consulted.

Unfortunately, some patients may experience temporary pigment changes such as lightening or darkening of the skin.

Laser hair removal clinic patient education: The patient should be made aware that an actively growing hair is the only follicle which will respond to IPL treatments. In the weeks following the procedure, the portion of the hair which remains under the skin (after shaving prior to the procedure) will be be expelled. The patient will begin to see these hairs protrude from the follicles which may be misinterpreted as hair regrowth. This is especially more noticeable in areas of the body which has thicker or more coarse hair such as the armpits and genitals.

Laser hair removal patients should also be informed that no laser or IPL device can destroy all of the hair follicles… especially after only one procedure. Some hairs are in their dormant state and can’t be treated, some have been placed into a prolonged dormant state due to the procedure effects, and others have been transformed into vellus hairs (light, fine hairs). Several treatments are required at monthly intervals for an optimal outcome. A maintenance procedure performed at yearly intervals is recommended for permanent hair removal.

Hair Removal Clinic is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. About Laser Hair Removal About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Before laser and IPL...
2. Skin Tighening Skin Tightening: What to expect from your laser skin...
3. Bikini Line Laser Hair Removal Bikini line laser hair removal can be classified in...
4. Skin Clinic MD: IPL Why does my dermatologist have an IPL? Medical Spas,...
5. Skin Clinic: Botox & Dysport Botox &  Dysport are now offered at almost any...

Botox &  Dysport are now offered at almost any skin clinic, laser clinic, laser treatment center . How come?

Botox is available from nearly all skin clinics and medical spas. It’s a purified protein produced by the Clostridium Botulinum Bacterium which reduces the activity of the muscles that cause glabellar lines (frown lines) that form between the brows. The process is non-surgical, physician administered treatment used for patients from ages 18-65. Botox can last up to 6 months but results may vary and you many need treatments sooner.

A medical consultation from the physician overseeing the medical spa will be done prior to receiving treatment which will include a review of allergies, medications and possible contraindications. This will also be the time the patient’s expectations will be set about the outcome of the treatment.

Before a Botox or Dysport injection, the medical provider will determine the areas of injection by examining the patient’s ability to move certain muscles in the brow area. Tiny injections will be made into the muscles responsible for creating the lines. A cold pack or an anesthetic may be used to minimize discomfort to the patient.

There may be some mild side effects at the injection site. A small amount of pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and/or bleeding or bruising . Other reported side effects include headache, respiratory infection, flu syndrome, temporary eyelid droop and nausea.

Contraindications for Botox treatments are:

1. Planning to become pregnant, already pregnant or breast feeding
2. (Parkinson’s & MS) Diseases that affect the nerves or muscles
3. Antibiotics (Gentamicin, Tobramycin, Clindamycin, Lincomycin)
4. Medications for hearth rhythm problems
5. Medications for Myasthenia Gravis / Alzheimer’s disease

Dysport(Reloxin)

Dysport is a paralyzing agent approved by the FDA that’s similar to Botox in that it’s effects and treatment are the same. It’s a botulinum neurotoxin A complex(abobotulinumtoxinA) and is approved for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines in adults younger than 65 years of age.

Reloxin was the previous name of the product until the manufacturers decided on the name of “Dysport” upon FDA approval. Although Botox Cosmetic and Dysport function in the same manner and have the same contraindications and results, it should be known that the dosing units of the two agents differ and; therefore, cannot be combined.

Skin Clinic: Botox & Dysport is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Medical Spa RX: Botox & Dysport MedicalSpaRX.com sells Dysport, Ipsen's newest introduction the the cosmetic...
2. Dysport: The New Botox? Dysport is often called the “New Botox.” However, Dypsort...
3. Top Skin Clinic MD Posts from Oct Missed some Skin Clinic MD posts? Here are some...
4. Wholesale Botox from Canada? Image by Getty Images via Daylife Discount Botox from...
5. Skin Clinic MD: Single use Botox? Is your medical spa using a new vial of...

The true work horse of a medical spa, this Palomar Starlux was purchased in 2006 for $150,000, but you can save more than 70%!

This IPL Starlux Includes:

Palomar Starlux 300 Series II IPL
Palomar IPL stand
Power supply
IPL / Laser Glasses
Chlller Fluid
Original paperwork, instructions and DVDs

4 HandPieces (Each of these retails for $7,000 – $10,000)

RED LuxR pulse count: 91,682
PURPLE LuxV pulse count: 2,593
GREEN LuxG pulse count 58,726
YELLOW LuxY pulse count 39,444

FREE Shipping: Up to $300

Skin Clinic MD: Palomar Starlux 300 IPL is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Top Skin Clinic MD Posts from Oct Missed some Skin Clinic MD posts? Here are some...
2. Skin Clinic MD: IPL Why does my dermatologist have an IPL? Medical Spas,...
3. Skin Clinic News – April 20, 2009 Laser Clinic MD Podcast | Laser Clinic MD -...
4. About Laser Hair Removal About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Before laser and IPL...
5. Skin Tighening Skin Tightening: What to expect from your laser skin...

Skin laser clinics are medical businesses that provide non-surgical cosmetic treatments and include laser clinics, medical spas and other medical centers that are operated with some form of physician oversight and differ from day spas in that offer medical treatments.

Skin & laser clinics usually offer very high end skin care.

The use of nonsurgical technology also differentiates medspas and laser clinics from traditional plastic surgery. Laser hair removal, IPL and laser treatments, Fraxel, Thermage, Botox, Restylane and other popular cosmetic treatments are usually offered.

With the addition of nonsurgical technology solutions that don’t require surgery, cosmetic medicine is now being offered in a growing number of general medical practices.

Medspas, skin clinics and laser centers usually have blogs as part of their web sites and use it as a means of communication with existing patients and patient marketing.

Skin Laser Clinic is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Skin Clinic MD: Esthetics Training Book  The Advanced Medical Spa Esthetics Training Course & Study...
2. Skin Clinic MD Blogcast! Skin Clinic MD has added it’s own podcast! Tired...
3. Top Medical Spa MD Blog Posts Medical Spa MD: Top 10 Blog Posts The 10 most...
4. Top Skin Clinic MD Posts from Oct Missed some Skin Clinic MD posts? Here are some...
5. Skin Clinic News – April 13, 2009 Latest Girls Pages » Blog Archive » 151 Beauty...

About Laser Hair Removal:

Treatment Before laser and IPL devices entered the market, electrolysis was the only form of permanent or long-term hair removal available. Electrolysis is still performed today, but it is painful and invasive to the skin, allowing for a chance of infection. Unfortunately, this painstaking process is performed one hair follicle at a time. During the electrolysis procedure, a fine needle is inserted into the hair follicle, delivering a galvanic current to destruct the follicle stem cells. Regular maintenance procedures are often required for years after the initial treatment. With laser and pulsed light technology, hundreds of hair follicles are treated at a time and vary upon the spot size (the size of the tip of the device delivering energy). These non-invasive hair removal procedures only take minutes to perform instead of the hours required with electrolysis.

About Laser Hair Removal: Melanin

The most important consideration about laser hair removal prior to a procedure is the patient’s skin type and hair color. Laser hair removal is based on selective photothermolysis (using light and heat for destruction of a hair follicle) with melanin being the target chromophore (chemical grouping that produces color). The difference between the absorption of laser or light energy by melanin in the hair follicle and melanin in the epidermis determines the amount of energy that can be safely used without harming the skin. Light skinned patients with dark hair are considered to be the ideal patients for laser hair removal On the other hand, a patient with very dark skin and gray or white hair, would have little if any response. Since melanin in the hair shaft and follicle are the target source for laser and IPL hair removal procedures, it is important for patients during their initial consultation not to tweeze, wax or use any depilatory device prior to hair removal. The patient can, however, shave the area to be treated (which preserves the chromophore in the follicle), or can use hair removal creams. Hair which is protruding from the skin can singe during a laser or light treatment which causes an unpleasant smell and possible flares.

About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Day

Most laser hair removal devices technically operate the same way when performing a treatment. The parameters (joules, milliseconds, pulse, etc.) on the device should be set according to the patient’s skin analysis and history. Patients should not wear dark clothing near the area to be treated as the pigment in the clothing can be absorbed by the laser resulting in a burn. The patient should be advised to refrain from using any lotions, body washes, cosmetics, or skin medications the day of treatment. A topical anesthetic may be applied prior to the procedure, but if any residue of the anesthetic remains, it should be wiped clean from the skin. A patch test should be performed on the targeted treatment area. Several treatments are required at monthly intervals for the best outcome and yearly maintenance procedure is highly recommended.

Want to know more about laser hair removal? Join our mailing list and get your free med spa and laser clinic report that details all of the nonsurgical cosmetic medical treatments including an entire section all about laser hair removal.

About Laser Hair Removal is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Skin Clinic – Sciton BBL Sciton BBLs Cutting Edge Medical Center IPL & Aesthetic...
2. Skin Tighening Skin Tightening: What to expect from your laser skin...
3. Skin Clinic MD: IPL Why does my dermatologist have an IPL? Medical Spas,...
4. Palomar Starlux or Sciton BBL What should you know about IPL or cosmetic laser...
5. Bikini Line Laser Hair Removal Bikini line laser hair removal can be classified in...

Skin Tightening: What to expect from your laser skin tightening treatment

Skin tightening treatments are usually performed by an esthetician under the direct supervision of a physician.  Skin tightening treatments don’t require much down time for the patient. While devices used for skin tightening do vary in their modality; the procedures do not require topical anesthetics. These procedures are typically performed in monthly intervals and results can be seen gradually over several months. Because of the gradual improvement, it is important to obtain before photos of the intended treatment area(s) before the procedure, with subsequent photos taken immediately prior to performing each consecutive treatment. A final results photo should be taken one month after the last treatment. This photo journal can show the patient their improvement.

IPL and Laser Skin Tightening Devices

The source of energy used to produce thermal damage can be either radio waves, infrared light, lower wavelength laser or any combination of the three. The intention is to stimulate increased collagen production.

Light wavelengths, specifically in the infrared spectrum, are successfully used to promote tightening of the skin by heating the dermis. This in turn initiates the body’s natural healing response. This type of treatment is called “selective thermal damage”. When the dermis becomes “damaged”, the body will begin to heal itself by encouraging additional collagen production and the rebuilding of the collagen that already exists in the tissue. As the layer of collagen builds upon itself, the underlying tissues of the skin contract, resulting in a tighter appearance to the skin. Most infrared devices deliver their light source in a single grid. This results in a large area of controlled thermal damage. The Palomar LuxDeepIR Fractional is one device on the market that delivers light in an array of columns into the target area of tissue and leaves the surrounding areas untouched. The company says that this type of technology reduces patients’ pain and also promotes quicker healing time as the new developing areas of collagen can attach to and build upon the untouched areas. When using the radio frequency devices, there also is a variance from one source of energy to bipolar devices constituting two wavelengths.

Why is collagen important to Laser Skin Tightening?

Collagen is an important protein and structural component of skin. Large amounts of collagen are contained in the dermis. Collagen fibers build a strong mesh responsible for maintaining the texture, strength and resilience of skin. As we get older, our collagen fibers start to break down and the epidermal layer thins. The results are visible sagging, wrinkles and folds. Even though fibroblasts can produce more collagen fibers, the human body’s ability to do so decreases as we age.

Skin Tightening Results.

Although not comparable to plastic surgery, on average, the most dramatic results of laser skin tightening treatments are seen in the neck and jaw line where the dermal layer is thinner. However, results are not seen until months after one treatment or more. Results are also varied depending on differences in skin texture and thickness and a patient’s lifestyle (alcohol, smoking, sleep patterns). Each device states different claims of how painful the procedure is, so some patients may choose to use a topical anesthetic or an analgesic to decrease pain. Side effects may include edema, erythema, or skin blanching immediately following treatment. Rarer side effects of laser skin tightening may include blistering, skin depressions and even slight pigment changes.

Skin Tighening is a post from: Skin Clinic MD

Skin Clinic MD related posts:

1. Skin Clinic MD: IPL Why does my dermatologist have an IPL? Medical Spas,...
2. Skin Clinic – Sciton BBL Sciton BBLs Cutting Edge Medical Center IPL & Aesthetic...
3. About Laser Hair Removal About Laser Hair Removal: Treatment Before laser and IPL...
4. Dermatology Clinic Procedures: Sciton SkinTyte & BBLs Medical centers all around Europe have been combining SkinTyte...
5. Thermage Skin Tighening Thermage is FDA approved for tightening and thickening skin...