By: Karen Lederman
By Cathi DeThomas, CME
I think by now we all know that eating a diet rich in antioxidants (remember the “rainbow” – lots of color on your plate!) is great for your body in terms of long term health and disease prevention, as well as helping your skin remain more youthful and healthy. Putting those same antioxidants ON your skin is another beneficial way to keep that youthful glow.
What are some of the more effective antioxidants?
VITAMIN C: Everyone knows this one – Vitamin C provides UVA/UVB protection, decreases pigmentation, reduces redness and increases collagen production. As one of the most powerful antioxidants out there, it stops free-radical damage that occurs with sun-exposure, improving the appearance of the skin by reversing that damage. It is best used both externally and internally.
VITAMIN A/RETINOIDS: Most of us are familiar with the name “Retin-A”. This is a trade name for the topical form of Vitamin A, an acid know as Tretinoin. It was approved in 1971 initially to treat mild to moderate acne by speeding cell turnover and normalizing oil production. In addition, it also promotes collagen/elastin formation, evens out pigment by suppressing melanocytes and creates younger, smoother-looking skin. It is used externally in cream or gel formation and is one of our recommended “must have” antioxidants.
ALPHA LIPOIC ACID: This is an acid that work in both aqueous and lipid environments, and is small enough to actually penetrate cell membrane. This is very important, because Alpha Lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant, and can reduce the free radical damage that causes premature aging. It actually helps to recycle Vitamins C and E, preventing them from becoming free radicals in the skin.
COENZYME Q10: Yet another powerful free radical scavenger, CoQ10 can reverse the damage caused by sun exposure, smoke, pollution and other environmental insults. It also affects collagen and elastin production, and was found, in one German study, to reduce wrinkle depth of crow’s feet by 27% after 6 weeks of topical use. (Mitchell & Sengelmann – “The Botox Miracle”). This antioxidant can be used both topically and orally.
These are some of the top and most commonly used antioxidants presently found in many skin care products. Here at Laser Skin Solutions, you can take advantage of free consultation with our skin care specialists, who can recommend which of these formulations will be best for your and your skin care needs.
For more healthy and youthful looking skin, remember your antioxidants – both inside and out!
By: Karen Lederman
Most men are quite happy to have an abundance of hair sprouting from various parts of the body, as it is viewed by many as a sign of masculinity. The same cannot be said for women, as they are expected to have smooth, relatively hairless skin.
While it’s unfair, women are generally forced to adopt a cleaning routine that includes shaving the legs, underarms, and the bikini area. It’s a chore that can be painful when nicks and cuts take place. This only gets worse if women decide that waxing is the way to go, as pain is all part and parcel of that treatment. If you have unwanted hair and want it gone for the long haul, CoolGlide laser treatment is definitely the way to go.
All areas can be attended to using this technology, with the hair that is removed staying gone permanently. The obvious benefit of laser hair removal is that you will never have to cry out in pain again when you get nicked by a razor or have your hair yanked out by hot wax. You can have a silky smooth set of legs, underarms, upper lip, and bikini area, with no need to worry yourself with hair growth. How it all works is actually quite straightforward.
You may experience a little stinging sensation when having sensitive areas worked on, but it is more of a minor discomfort than painful. You can request a local anesthetic if you are a little unsure of how it will feel, but that is generally not required.
Depending on the thickness of your hair and the level of growth, you are looking at anywhere from 5-6 treatments to have it removed. Once done, it usually takes about 2 weeks for all hair growth to stop. It is okay to shave during this time, but that is the only other type of treatment you should use. The reason that you will have to go for several treatments is because the hair that is being removed may have another growth cycle coming through underneath.
While the laser can take care of the existing hair, it cannot get a hold of the next growth right away. Following a treatment schedule laid out by a laser treatment specialist will ensure that all unwanted hair is take care of as quickly as possible.
Once the treatment has been completed you may find that your skin is a little irritated and tender. This is perfectly normal, and it’s also nowhere near as severe as what you would get with other types of treatment.
The CoolGlide laser treatment is safe and effective on all skin types, but there are some hair colors that it will not work on. Blonde, white, and certain shades of red hair cannot be treated, simply because the hair does not contain the melanin required to absorb the light from the laser. If you do not have any of those hair colors, your unwanted hair can quickly and effectively be removed using laser treatments.
Give us a call at (561) 641-9490 to schedule an appointment.
If you’re trying to lose weight, forget about Nutri-System, Atkins, or South Beach Diets….Those programs rely on willpower alone. Our program uses SCIENCE! Get results in as little as 1 – 12 weeks, losing up to 7 pounds per week! http://bit.ly/KNo5EL
For years, we have been told to wear sunscreen, including earlier posts in this blog. Hearing this advice again, and the fact that I recently graduated from business school, reminds me of a column I originally read in 1997 in the Chicago Tribune. In her introduction, columnist Mary Schmich describes it as a commencement address she would give, if she were ever asked to give one. The title is, “Wear Sunscreen.” Throughout the column, Mary offers nuggets of wisdom including:
– Wear Sunscreen.
– Floss.
– Respect your elders.
– Remember the compliments you receive. Forget the insults.
– Stretch.
– Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth.
– Do one thing every day that scares you.
– Trust me on the sunscreen.
I have read the full commencement address dozens of times. And each time I read it, I find simple reminders for creating a life of true fulfillment and contentment.
For years, we have been told to wear sunscreen, including earlier posts in this blog. Hearing this advice again, and the fact that I recently graduated from business school, reminds me of a column I originally read in 1997 in the Chicago Tribune. In her introduction, columnist Mary Schmich describes it as a commencement address she would give, if she were ever asked to give one. The title is, “Wear Sunscreen.” Throughout the column, Mary offers nuggets of wisdom including:
– Wear Sunscreen.
– Floss.
– Respect your elders.
– Remember the compliments you receive. Forget the insults.
– Stretch.
– Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth.
– Do one thing every day that scares you.
– Trust me on the sunscreen.
I have read the full commencement address dozens of times. And each time I read it, I find simple reminders for creating a life of true fulfillment and contentment.
With the holidays behind us and a fresh new year ahead, it’s time to make a few decisions about how to improve the quality of our lives. Even people who don’t believe in resolutions have a hard time not wanting to better themselves in 2016. Here are the top resolutions for 2016, and how you can get moving in the right direction from day one. 
Have a healthier lifestyle
Many people separate living healthier from losing weight. A healthier lifestyle includes cutting back on alcohol, quitting smoking, drinking less caffeine, and all of those other lifestyle choices that can slow you down. While incorporating a better diet into your life can certainly help you lose weight, your motives for wanting a healthier lifestyle may be bigger than dropping few pounds for your vacation in June, such as preventing cancer or diabetes. The key to having a healthier lifestyle is practicing self-discipline, staying motivated, and having a way to check in and reward yourself for a job well done.
Lose weight
Losing weight is at the top of the list when it comes to New Year’s Resolutions. Laser Skin & Wellness has multiple opportunities for you to lose weight and keep it off this year. Some clients choose to have a detox in January while others want to speak to an expert and have a program designed specifically for them. Whatever your weight loss goals are this year, don’t’ hesitate to contact Laser Skin & Wellness to help you get started (and keep you accountable).
Live in the moment
This resolution people are making in 2016 has to do with living life to the fullest and putting down devices that can distract us from our every day. People are spending more time with their faces in smartphones and tablets, and less time with the actual people they are surrounded by. This is the year that people will take notice and become more mindful of their surroundings. Does this mean you won’t see as many people walking and texting or less phone action at restaurants? Only time will tell! Start by taking small steps such as turning your phone on silent for dinner. Then, gradually use it less and less.
Be more involved with loved ones
Life gets busy, and we tend to ignore the people that matter the most to us in life. Over the holidays we see everyone again and wonder, why do we wait all year to spend time together? When you want to be more involved with friends and family, the best way to do it is to schedule the time and don’t cancel! Put that meeting with your mother, sister, or old roommate in ink and follow through.
Laser Skin & Wellness wants to know what your New Year’s Resolution is this year. Our team is ready to help you achieve your weight loss and lifestyle goals through healthy and smart applications. So grab a loved one, turn your phone on silent, and make an appointment by calling 561-641-9490 or visiting our locations in Lake Worth and Palm Beach Gardens so that you can get started today.
BY: Karen Lederman
© Kirill Kedrinski – Fotolia.com
If your skin starts looking dull, rough and aged during the holiday season, you’re not alone. Stress, seasonal changes, lack of humidity, and other factors can leave skin looking washed out and dry.
Holiday food doesn’t help your skin look its best, either–most of it is full of sugar, fat, and other unhealthy components. If you’d like to make smart choices to benefit your skin this holiday season, read on for the most skin-nourishing holiday foods–plus a few to avoid.
Good Foods for More Youthful Skin
Pumpkin
A fall and winter favorite, pumpkin is packed with nutrients that nourish your skin and help new skin take over for a youthful glow. Pumpkin is an anti-inflammatory that contains carotenoids, which help fight free radicals and skin aging, while enzymes and vitamins C, E, and A cleanse, repair, and contribute to the overall health of the skin.
Pumpkin seeds also boast skin benefits, stimulating cell growth and collagen formation, both of which affect the youthfulness of the skin.
Cranberry
Cranberries are chock full of antioxidants which help banish free radicals. Cranberries can also help with a number of skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema. And don’t forget the benefits of cranberries for the bladder; too many sugary treats can contribute to furthering urinary tract infections.
Sage
An herb that rarely turns up in meals during the rest of the year, sage is great for improving skin circulation and fighting redness. Sage also helps with skin cell turnover and health, which can make you look younger.
Foods that Can Make You Look Older
Candies & Cookies
Holiday treats like Christmas cookies and candies can be awfully tempting, but the refined sugar in these sweets is anything but sweet for your skin. Instead, choose desserts containing dried fruit, dark chocolate, or pumpkin. They are better choices for indulgence, offering you and your skin multiple benefits.
Alcohol
Alcohol is very dehydrating, and can make your skin look tired, dry, rough, and dull. If you’re going to be drinking this holiday season, try red wine in moderation. Red wine contains powerful anti-aging compounds and can be enjoyed plain or mulled.
Treat Yourself with Titan Laser Skin Treatment
Though it’s important to eat well and maintain a diligent skincare regimen, there is no way to prevent all signs of aging. If you’re starting to notice looser skin, wrinkles, and other signs of aging, consider a laser skin treatment such as Titan.
Titan uses infrared light to gently heat deep layers of skin to encourage collagen production for tighter, younger looking skin. Though it may take several treatments to see the results, there is no downtime associated with the procedure.
For comprehensive laser skin treatment of all kinds, consider skin rejuvenation or tightening treatments at our Palm Beach Gardens or Lake Worth locations. We pair Titan treatment with Genesis laser treatment (at no additional cost) to improve fine lines, large pores, and other signs of aging.
To learn more about our gentle and effective laser treatments, call us to schedule your free consultation today at 561-641-9490.
Sources:
http://www.glamour.com/health-fitness/blogs/vitamin-g/2013/12/2-skin-prettifying-holiday-foo.html
http://www.sandiego6.com/story/skin-loving-holiday-foods-20131216
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/26/thanksgiving-foods-skincare_n_4338090.htm
By Karen Lederman
Summer is great fun; with barbecues, trips to the beach, and other activities best enjoyed in the warmth of the sun. Unfortunately, the sun has a dark side as well.
Harmful UV rays can damage your skin, accelerating aging, causing pigmentation problems, and increasing your risk for skin cancer. When the sun starts to get the best of your skin, it’s time to fight back.
Ready to get rid of summer sun damage? Consider these effective skin treatment.
IPL
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments are also known as photorejuvenation procedures. A highly customizable and programmable treatment appropriate for a range of skin types, IPL uses heat in the selected areas of skin to target brown and red pigment, often caused by sun exposure.
The treatment involves only minor discomfort (a stinging sensation), and can be used to treat many areas of the upper body, including the hands, face, and décolletage. There is no downtime, and results appear gradually in the weeks following treatment. Two to three sessions may be necessary for best results.
Pearl Laser Treatments (Laser Skin Resurfacing)
A more intense treatment, Pearl laser treatments offer great resurfacing results with less downtime than many popular laser treatments. Pulsed light is used to encourage skin rejuvenation, and a few days after treatment, old skin will begin to peel off, to be replaced by smoother, fresher skin.
Downtime from Pearl treatments is typically about 6 days, and the skin will need to be carefully protected from the sun during this time, especially as sunscreen cannot be worn during healing. Two or three treatments may be needed in moderate to severe cases of sun damage.
Dermapen
A “microneedling” treatment, Dermapen™ works by making miniscule pricks in the skin at a highly controlled depth and spacing to help encourage the body to create collagen, a component of the skin that helps contribute to elasticity, texture, and other healthy qualities.
Dermapen™ can help improve the skin quality in many ways, and is a great way to help your skin recover from summer sun exposure.
Get a Free Skin Assessment & Consultation
If you think your skin could use a little TLC after your summer activities (especially for those of us in South Florida), then it may be time to consider your options for cosmetic skin treatments.
At Laser Skin & Wellness, our experienced and professional aesthetic staff, have the knowledge and skills to assess your skin and help you choose the best treatments for you. For expert care, come visit our locations in Lake Worth or Palm Beach Gardens, FL or call (561) 641-9490 to learn more about how to reverse the damage caused by the sun.
