Category: Aesthetics

How Micro Needling Can Help You Look 10 Years Younger

Micro needling, also known as skin needling, collagen induction therapy (CTI) or percutaneous collagen induction (PCI), is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure used to treat a range of skin problems, including wrinkles, discoloration, acne scars, large pores and stretch marks. Micro needling is an old technique that dates back to the middle of the 20th century.

How Does It Work?

During micro needling, a well-trained specialist uses a device filled with tiny needles that puncture the skin and leave behind thousands of tiny channels. These microscopic openings trigger the healing process and also stimulate collagen and elastin production. New, healthy skin replaces the old skin, and the collagen and elastin keep it firm and youthful.

Types of Micro Needling Devices

While there are manual micro needling devices that can be used at home, the needles tend to be shorter than those on devices used by our technicians. The home rollers therefore don’t penetrate as deeply as do the medical rollers, making the results less effective.

Medical micro needling devices are always used by a medical professional. The length of the needles in the devices depends on the condition being treated. At our office, we are able to incorporate other skin-rejuvenating products. This helps to nourish and hydrate the skin. Micro needling is an outpatient procedure that can take 10 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.

What Happens During the Recovery?

The downtime after this treatment is minimal. The patient’s skin will be warm and slightly red, as if they had a sunburn, for the first two or three days after the treatment. During those first couple of days, the patient should avoid the sun and strenuous activity.

Who is a Good Candidate?

The best candidates for micro needling treatment are in overall good health and have a realistic idea of what the procedure can do for them. They understand that micro needling is a great way to look younger and more refreshed, but that it is not going to make them a different person. Of course, your candidacy for this treatment will be discussed in detail during a consultation at our office.

 

Take Our Aesthetics Quiz to find out if you would be a good candidate right now!

For WOMEN

For MEN

Glutathione- The Master Anti-oxidant

Glutathione (GSH) is a small protein molecule, or tri-peptide that is formed by three amino acids which include Glycine, Cysteine and Glutamic acid. Glutathione is found in a large quantity in the liver and it plays a key role in supporting the immune system. Medical experts say that glutathione is the most effective and efficient endogenous anti-oxidant. It is important to note that the accumulation of oxidative damage which is a biochemical mechanism is closely related to aging. There is a direct relationship between the decrease of Glutathione concentrations and aging. Most scientists are now convinced that a high level of Glutathione will reduce the rate of aging, detoxify your liver, support the immune system and protect body cells from free radicals.

 

Supplementing Glutathione

As people grow older, the levels of Glutathione drop and the ability of the body to detoxify free radicals decreases. Glutathione is produced inside the human cells where the production is determined by Glutathione precursors such as the amino acid cysteine. You are advised to consume foods that have high Glutathione amino acid precursors such as raw fruits, vegetables and whey proteins. The faster and easier way to increase your GSH levels is through direct supplementing or “push” that gives immediate results. Supplementing Glutathione levels in your body is a fantastic way to improve your health and longevity potential. Recent studies have shown that above the age of 20 the production of Glutathione decreases by 1 percent each year due to toxic overloads, poor diet and free radical stress. We’re more than happy to explain the benefits in more detail and help you get started on Glutathione Therapy at New Leaf Wellness

 

Three Main Benefits of Glutathione

a.) Anti-oxidation and Free Radical Hunters

Glutathione is a natural antioxidant found in the bodies cells. There are other antioxidants such as vitamin C and E which depend on glutathione to function effectively. Alpha lipoic acid is also an antioxidant which depends on Glutathione for its functions. Free radicals are waste products that remain after cells consume oxygen and nutrients. These radicals are picked up by vitamins C and E, and then passed to GSH. Glutathione is used to neutralize the free radicals that are very harmful to the body. With low levels of glutathione, even the best vitamins cannot perform their functions effectively. Any person interested in slowing down the rate of the aging process should take the advantage of anti oxidation and neutralization of free radicals provided by Glutathione.

 

b.) Increased Immune System

The immune system is used to protect your body against diseases and foreign matter which can cause the flu, cancer, and allergies among others. The immune system is able to protect your body in two ways, the first way is by producing antibodies that fight foreign cells in your body. The second way is by lymphocytes that keep on circulating in the blood stream. Glutathione boosts the immune system by availing the B and T cells which are fighter cells that are used to attack any foreign cell in your body. GSH will replenish the fighter cells in your body after attacking the harmful foreign cells.

 

c.) Detoxifier and Neutralizer

A high concentration of glutathione is found​​ in the liver, lungs and kidneys. These organs help to eliminate toxins, wastes and heavy metals. Glutathione binds with toxins and poisons in your body, and make them water soluble so that they can pass through your body. By increasing glutathione in your body you will able to support your liver, lungs and kidneys in eliminating wastes, along with every living cell in your body. When you eliminate the toxins and waste from you body you will notice increased energy, faster healing and decreased pain.  Also your metabolism is better balanced, your sleep is improved and you can think more clearly.

Why Men are Getting Botox

For years women have been using BOTOX® to reduce wrinkles and therefore the signs of aging. As it turns out more men are now seeking BOTOX® as well. Most men, however, are very practical and accept cosmetic surgery for different reasons . . . but not always.

Men are now looking for ways to boost their self esteem and confidence in new ways. Whereas previously men looked toward material objects as signs of success, many now see cosmetic surgery as a sign of privilege and affluence. At least 225,000 BOTOX® treatments were performed for men in 2012. BOTOX® has been around for more than 20 years, so why have so many men started to use BOTOX® and other cosmetic procedures recently?

Social scientists have a few suggestions:

  • Cosmetic surgery has become more accessible with less prohibitory prices in the past 20 years.
  • Gender roles have become less rigid and what was previously considered a women’s domain, and visa versa, has blurred. It is now more acceptable for men to have BOTOX®.
  • The baby boomer generation is living longer and seems to refuse to age!
  • Men are trying to keep up with their younger looking wives.
  • The competitive job market seems to demand a youthful, more energetic look.

How Long Does Boxtox Last?  Guys, it depends on each individual. Most dudes I know only need to go in 2x a year. There are some however who feel they benefit from more frequent visits, like every 4 months. For the most part however, 2x a year is more than enough. Keep in mind that the result you see is temporary, meaning eventually the Botox will wear off. This means ongoing visits to the provider to help keep your face from wrinkling out.

How Does It Work? Botox is injected into the facial areas where wrinkles appear in very small concentrations. The drug prevents signals from the nerves from reaching these facial muscles, effectively preventing the muscles from getting the signal to contract. For a short period of time (months) these muscles are effectively, paralyzed. Injected Botox prevents the release of acetylcholine, preventing contraction of the muscle cells.The effect of the drug causes a reduction in abnormal muscle contraction allowing the muscles to become less stiff. In plain-speak Botox helps to stop those fine lines and wrinkles starting in the first place and “calms down” the existing lines that currently sit on your face.

Don’t forget, BOTOX® may just be the perfect gift for the man in your life! Give us a call for your free consultation or to set up an appointment this month!

 

The Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

This week I would like to discuss one of my favorite skin care secrets: Hyaluronic Acid. This substance is naturally present in the human body and is, interestingly enough, found in highest amounts in the eyes and joints.

So how exactly does Hyaluronic Acid benefit the skin? One word: MOISTURE. “Used as a serum each morning and night, Hyaluronic Acid is able to penetrate the skin’s upper layers. Hyaluronic Acid forms an air permeable layer and penetrates into the dermis, thus boosting the elasticity and hydration of the skin. The protective barrier on the skin locks in moisture, which gives the skin a youthful appearance”. In addition, Hyaluronic Acid also serves as protectant from UVB rays! This stuff is really a win-win.

Hyaluronic Acid and Collagen are vital to maintaining the skin’s elasticity and structure. Collagen gives the skin its firmness and Hyaluronic Acid nourishes and hydrates the collagen. My favorite analogies and explanation of the two: Collagen is like a rubber band, stretch that rubber band a million times, like what we do with our skin and without any moisture. Eventually that rubber band gets overstretched (saggy) and dried out and will most likely break. This is much the same way the collagen in our skin reacts leaving our skin in need of moisture. Now imagine that same rubber band stretched a million times while under water the whole time. Chances of that rubber band drying out and breaking are minimal. Consider the Hyaluronic Acid as the water that keeps the Collagen moist and elastic. Collagen is continuously surrounded and nourished by the gelatinous Hyaluronic Acid substance. Young skin is smooth and highly elastic because it contains high concentrations of Hyaluronic Acid, which helps skin stay healthy. As we grow older, the body loses its ability to maintain this same concentration in the skin. With decreasing levels of Hyaluronic Acid in the skin, so goes the ability of the skin to hold water. The result, the skin becomes drier and loses its ability to maintain its hydration. Hyaluronic acid acts as a space filler by binding to water and thus keeping the skin wrinkle free.

At New Leaf Wellness, we use this serum in several of our services, like Microneedling, it is a topic often brought up to educate our clients about ‘the best kept secret’. Juvederm is a family of injectable hyaluronic acid dermal fillers used to provide 9 months to one year of correction for moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth).

We also suggest hyalo gyn containing Hyaluronic acid for vaginal dryness for our Natural Hormone Patients.

 

Care for the Neck & Décolleté: An Important Step in any Skin Care Regimen

Skin on the neck and décolleté is easy to overlook in a skin care routine. This commonly neglected area of the body can reveal a patient’s true age, so it requires as much attention as the face. Some experts say unprotected skin on the neck ages seven times faster than the face. Hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles on the décolleté from years of sun damage become more noticeable as patients age. A consistent regimen that includes Renewal Facial products and a sunscreen daily can help reverse and prevent visible signs of aging. Additional products at New Leaf Wellness along with in-office procedures like the VI Peel and Microneedling will Refresh and Revitalize the skin.

Characteristics of Damaged Skin on Neck & Décolleté

  • Hyperpigmentation and unwanted dark spots
  • Uneven texture and tone
  • Loss of elasticity, fine lines and wrinkling for Neck & Décolleté
  • Firms and tightens skin on neck and décolleté
  • Treats unwanted signs of hyperpigmentation
  • Stops damaging inflammation that leads to aging

 

Cosmetic Medicine: Feel Great, Look Terrific!

Age 60 is the new 40 for both men and women. Thanks to the advancement of medical science, people are living longer and staying healthier. People want to be well and look well too. Cosmetic medicine is evolving with new, non-invasive procedures to make you look as young and healthy as you feel.

At New Leaf Wellness we perform procedures safely in the office that require very little recovery or downtime for our busy patients. Our treatments can tighten your skin, eradicate age spots, remove unwanted hair, resurface your skin, and reduce wrinkles.

Botox injections can remove or reduce worry lines, frowns, and wrinkles. It can also change the shape of your eyebrows or perk up sagging eyelids. Facial fillers turn back the clock by filling in the hollow areas of your face.

Skin care products have been improved, too, and are very effective in maintaining a healthy and youthful skin. “Cosmeceuticals” are most effective when prescribed by a knowledgeable health care provider or aesthetician. Consultation is required to determine the products best suited for you. And remember: Always use a good moisturizer and sun block!

What is all this worth? A healthy, radiant glow on the outside increases the warm feelings of health and self esteem on the inside. Feeling good and looking your best have proven beneficial health consequences.

 

What’s Your #1 Skin Concern?

Drop by for a Complimentary Skincare Consultation! 

A special time where we can discuss cosmetic services and medical grade skincare that can help you look your best!  We will listen to your concerns and explain cosmetic services and products  that are best suited for your needs, of which may be Botox and facial fillers, a series of peels or microneedling or skin care products. Call to schedule your preferred consultation time.

Top 5 Skin Concerns

#1: Dull Skin – After being exposed to the sun and harsh outdoor elements, dead skin cells may have accumulated on the surface of your skin. A simple procedure or the right skincare products may be just what you need.

#2: Dry Skin – Mature, aging skin is prone to being dry and dehydrated. During the cold winter or in the hot sun on vacation your complexion may be thirsty. Medical Grade Skincare products are formulated to deliver noticeable and long lasting results.

#3: Lines & Wrinkles  – Ultra Violet rays all year long cause and worsen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Start early to prevent fine lines and wrinkles and erase and smooth current lines.

#4: Dark Spots – Sun and heat exposure triggers skin discoloration like freckles, dark spots and uneven skin tone. Fall and winter is the best time to treat hyperpigmentation.

#5: Redness & Acne – Weather changes and going from extreme cold into a warm house can initiate breakouts and rosacea. A combination of good skincare products along with IPL Rosacea treatment can help keep rosacea at bay.

We have SOLUTIONS to Re-Energize your Anti-Aging Skincare Regiment!

 

Reposted from Innovative Directions in Health
http://idinhealth.com