BEAUTY 101: THE LATEST ON LOOKING YOUNGER

Forget botox, there are better ways to look younger with the latest developments in skin and beauty care! There are huge leaps in the skin care industry to help you look your best without going under the knife (or needle!). Take a peek at the latest out there to make you feel better when you wake up and look even younger than yesterday.


DERMAL FILLERS

No need to have saggy skin like your hound dog. You can take away skin that's headed down south with dermal fillers. They remove the usual laugh lines or parentheses around the nose and mouth area, aka the nasal labial folds.


There are a number of hot products on the market for this including Juvederm XC, Radiesse Wrinkle Filler, Restylane and Sculptra Aesthetic. Each product has been FDA-approved and is indicated for specific areas of the face. However, experienced physicians and nurses use their expertise to determine which products are the best fit for each patient.


According to Dr. James Kojian, member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and physician at Executive Fitness & Med Spa, Inc., the fastest growing trend in skincare is the non-surgical face lift. “With one or two syringes of advanced dermal fillers, we can perform non-surgical mid-face volumization. We can give patients cheek bones, fill nasal labial folds and fill under-eye troughs.”


“Dermal fillers restore lost volume, which results in pulling the skin back while diminishing lines and wrinkles. Your face looks rejuvenated and more youthful,” said Dr. Kojian.


THE GOOD: These products are suitable for people who are not quite in need of a face lift, but want to restore volume. Some fillers even increase your body’s natural collagen production. Most results are instant and last nine months to two years.

THE BAD & THE UGLY: Predictable expectations include bruising and swelling which subsides in 5-14 days--you'll have to use some vacation time at work. Inform physician of any allergies and previous treatments.

COST: $500+


DERMAPLANE

This is a specialized, physical exfoliation technique performed by trained estheticians in medical spas and offices. The esthetician uses a specially-designed medical blade to efficiently remove dead skin cells from the surface of the face. If it sounds a little more natural and safe, it is. 


“Many people have never heard of Dermaplaning, but once they try it, they are hooked,” said Rebecca Herrell, esthetician with more than 10 years experience in medical spas and offices. “Dermaplaning allows for even exfoliation because the technician can see what areas need more attention than others. The procedure feels very relaxing, like a gentle massage.”


THE GOOD: Dermaplaning removes the facial “peach fuzz” hair – a benefit many clients enjoy because it can be repeated as often as every 3 weeks. It is safe for pregnant and lactating clients as it is chemical free. No down time.

THE BAD & THE UGLY: Not recommended for actively acneic skin. Peach fuzz hair will slowly grow back, but not like men’s facial hair re-growth.

COST: $45-150.


CHEMICAL PEELS

With Fall here, it's time for those chemical peels! Peels can be used to address pigment concerns (sun spots), texture, acne and scar revision. It's like giving your skin a makeover.


A peel is a chemical exfoliation that can be a light surface exfoliator that results in gentle flaking for a few days or it can be a deeper corrective treatment that causes heavy shedding for 5-14 days.


THE GOOD: Peels cause an instant reaction and clients like seeing the dead skin slough away. Prolonged skincare benefits are experienced after the peeling is completed. Softens wrinkles and firms skin.

THE BAD & THE UGLY: May cause redness, itching, swelling, and heavy peeling. Requires a trained esthetician to determine the appropriate chemicals to use. Client must be diligent with sunscreen and home skincare routine.

COST: $100-$1000 or add-on to a facial from $35.


EYELASH & EYEBROW TINTING

Throw out your mascara and opt for the newest trend--eyelash and eyebrow tinting. Certain eyelash growth products like Latisse have already shelled out 1.5 million bottles, leaving clients to throw out their goopy, gross mascara. Tinting works wonders by making the lashes darker. Only seek treatment using ophthalmologist tested tint approved specifically for eyes.


THE GOOD: No need for mascara! Takes 30 minutes. Lasts about 4-6 weeks.

THE BAD & THE UGLY: Avoid if you have any sensitivities to hair dyes or hydrogen peroxide. Remove contacts prior to treatment.

COST: $20-$50


INOA HAIR COLOR

In January 2010, L’Oreal introduced INOA haircolor, an ammonia free, oil-based product that is recommended for people with sensitivities because it is non-irritating to the scalp and has no odor.


“INOA maximizes the effectiveness of the permanent haircolor process with even color from scalp to ends, provides 100 percent grey coverage and is highly conditioning to the hair,” said Michelle Shelton, a stylist for more than 16 years and co-owner of Bella Salon and Dean Anthony.


THE GOOD: Ideal for people who are coloring their hair every 4-6 weeks.

THE BAD & THE UGLY: More expensive that traditional haircolor.

COSTS: Prices vary by salon.


The best advice is to ask a lot of questions before any treatment. A complimentary consultation with a well-educated, experienced professional is highly recommended. Or take advantage of discounted specials and ask lots of questions during that treatment. Your technician, nurse or doctor should be able to advise you as to the best treatments for you – and honestly tell you if a specific treatment will meet your expectations.


SUNLESS SPRAY TANNING

If you're burnt out (no pun intended) on tanning after this summer, then let sunless spray tan take care of the rest. You can go professional on this one, by getting sprayed by a professional technician who can give you a custom tan with air compressor attached to a unique color blend.


THE GOOD: Safe, healthy, glowing tan without accruing sun damage. Much more realistic than machine spray tans. Non-toxic colors available.

THE BAD & THE UGLY: Must let the color “set” for 8 hours, so no immediate exercise or showering allowed. The instant bronze will rub off onto your clothing, but should wash out completely. It also doesn't look as natural, of course.

COST: $45-$85


This information is not intended to diagnose or prescribe any medical or non-medical treatments. Please discuss your health concerns with a physician