Q & A’s:
Aging and the Neck
Q: I’ve been using BOTOX® for several years, and I’ve had a few IPL treatments. The results are fantastic, but my neck is really showing my age, especially the lines. What do you recommend?
A:The skin on the neck can really show a person’s age. The good news is that the same IPL and BOTOX® treatments you’ve used for your face can significantly improve the look and feel of the skin on your neck. Rest assured there are several excellent and complementary collagen-stimulating treatments such as the Accent, Thermage and Pelleve. back to top
BOTOX® – Excessive Sweating
Q: I’m interested in treating my excessive sweating with BOTOX®. My cousin had her underarms treated with BOTOX® and now she swears by it. Is it covered by medical?
A: More and more, people are turning to BOTOX® as an effective method for controlling excessive sweating of the underarms and palms. Excessive sweating is a medically recognized condition called hyperhidrosis causing both physical and social discomfort. The therapeutic effects of BOTOX® on excess sweating are almost immediate and last up to 6 months, or even longer in some cases. The good news is that most extended health-care insurance programs will cover the cost. The patient need only pay the administering physician the cost of the injection itself.
BOTOX® – Side Effects
Q: Most of my friends are using BOTOX® and the results are amazing! I’m not worried about immediate side effects, as I know they’re rare. What evidence is there on long-term use?
A: For more than 20 years, doctors have been using BOTOX® with increasing frequency to treat a growing list of medical conditions. It has become the most popular procedure in cosmetic dermatology, and is endorsed by the FDA and health agencies the world over for both medical and cosmetic usage. Millions of people have benefited from BOTOX®’s therapeutic and cosmetic advantages. No long-term adverse effects have been found. That’s why BOTOX® continues to be the focus of leading-edge medical research, as well as the most increasingly popular cosmetic procedure for eliminating wrinkles.
When do I apply sunscreen?
Q: I know that daily use of sunscreen is important, but I’m not sure when to apply it. Do I apply it before or after my moisturizer?
A: You should always apply your moisturizer first. An effective moisturizer should penetrate the skin and lock the moisture inside. Sunscreen should be applied last, as a barrier, and should have an SPF of at least 15. The daily use of a sunscreen with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection is an important part of a healthy skin-care regime. Sunscreens and sunblocks not only protect you against premature aging, they are associated with reducing the possibility of skin cancer. Many moisturizers today contain sunscreens — try to find one that offers multiple benefits related to your skin type.
Skin Care: Women in Their 30′s
Q: I am 30 years old, and am worried about my skin aging. What types of skin-care products do you recommend?
A: You should use a sunscreen daily with an SPF of at least 15 to protect against photo-aging and sun damage. You should also consider using anti-oxidants such as water- and fat-soluble forms of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A acids and alpha-lipoic acids. The daily use of anti-oxidants play an important role in the skin’s defense against damage associated with sun exposure. They can also help to repair some of the damage that has already occurred, helping reduce sun spots and fine lines and smoothing skin’s texture.
Laser Hair Reduction for Blonde Hair
Q: I have blonde facial hair. I’ve read that laser hair reduction isn’t effective for treating blonde hair. Is this true?
A: In laser hair reduction, the pulses of light search out pigment, or melanin, to target a hair follicle. Blonde hair contains little melanin, so it is more difficult to treat. For this reason blonde hair often requires more treatments and ongoing maintenance. back to top
Removal of Sun Spots
Q: I used baby oil to tan when I was a teenager. Now I’m covered with freckles from head to toe. Can you recommend a treatment to remove all these freckles?
A: Intense pulsed light (IPL) photorejuvenation will work wonders for all that pigment! This non-invasive treatment selectively targets abnormal changes that come with sun damage like excessive pigmentation. With IPL treatments you are left with the skin colour and texture you were meant to have. There are topical treatment products that help as well. Look for those containing hydroquinone, Vitamin C, Vitamin A acid, azelaic acid and kojic acid. And, from now on, use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every day!
Non-Surgical Facelift – Thermalift
Q: I have been hearing a lot about a non-surgical facelift. What can you tell me about it and is it available in Canada?
A: The latest procedures in non-surgical facelifts involve the use of radiofrequency energy to tighten loose skin. As it stimulates the skin to produce more collagen, its effects continue to improve over time. We’ve had the most success with Accent XL, Thermage, and Pelleve. These treatments have been featured in lots of news segments across Canada and the United States. back to top
What is the Age to Start BOTOX®?
Q: I’m 25 and some of my friends are already getting BOTOX®. They say it’s for preventative measures. Why would someone my age get BOTOX®?
A: BOTOX® therapy is being used by millions as a safe, fast and effective treatment for anti-aging and age-prevention. Deciding if BOTOX® is right for you is an individual decision. Because our skin is elastic, like an elastic band, it wears out over time, producing deep wrinkles from expression lines. BOTOX® targets the muscles responsible for expression lines, reducing their movement for up to four months, making wrinkles less pronounced. With continued use, BOTOX® prevents wrinkles from deepening and helps expression lines from developing into wrinkles.
Are Creams as Effective as BOTOX®?
Q: What about all these new creams that claim to be as effective as BOTOX®?
A: BOTOX® is so effective for reducing wrinkles it’s causing a lot of concern in the skin care industry. So much so, that dozens of companies now compare their products’ anti-aging benefits to BOTOX®. While the use of good skin-care products is an important part of any healthy beauty regime, there is no cream, lotion or potion available today that compares to BOTOX® for effectively reducing wrinkles.
Thermage, Accent, Pelleve – How do they work?
Q: I’ve been hearing a lot about a non-surgical facelift called Thermage and more recently about Accent and Pelleve. How do they work and will I see a real difference?
A: Thermage, Accent, and Pelleve are breakthrough treatments that use non-invasive radiofrequency (RF) energy to tighten loose skin. By heating up the deep tissues, while cooling and protecting the skin, there is immediate collagen contraction followed by new collagen production which occurs over a period of time. The most common areas treated are the forehead, around the eye, the mid and lower face and the neck. The effects aren’t instantaneous as the tightening effect continues over a two week to six month period, providing a more youthful and luminous look. back to top
Thermage, Accent, Pelleve – How do I choose?
Q: If there are multiple options for skin tightening, how do I choose which one is right for me? A: Thermage, Accent, and Pelleve are all proven and effective methods for skin tightening and contouring. They each offer a unique and custom method of targeting and delivering radiofrequency energy. For those patients wishing to target the crepey skin around the eyes, under eye bags and even excess skin on the upper eyelids, we will often recommend the Pelleve which allows us to get closest to the skin in this area. The Accent XL is a great treatment for targeting not only the face and neck, but also to cover other areas of the body in a relatively short amount of time. We encourage patients to try the different treatments and gauge their response and preferences. back to top
The Non Surgical Face Lift
Q: Several years ago I tried a non-surgical facelift at a spa. I didn’t notice any difference. So why should I expect any more from the Thermage, Accent, or Pelleve?
A: With all the cosmetic products and treatments on the market, it is easy to become skeptical about results, especially after a disappointing experience such as yours. By heating up the deep tissues, while cooling and protecting the skin, it is designed to cause immediate collagen contraction followed by new collagen production which occurs over a period of time. Treatments such as Thermage, Accent, or Pelleve are sophisticated and have been proven through clinical trials to tighten skin and provide a more youthful appearance. It is recommended for those who aren’t prepared to have facial surgery, but want to see results that no skin cream or facial can provide.
Special After Care Required?
Q: At 48, I’m not prepared to have facial surgery, but I’ve heard I can treat my “jowls” with Thermage or Accent or Pelleve. Do I need to book extra time off work or have any special after-care?
A: As Thermage, Accent, and Pelleve are non-invasive processes for tightening sagging skin. They are ideal considerations for those who are either not ready or not interested in facial surgery. Some mild redness can be expected, but it doesn’t last long after the treatment. Some people get a bit of swelling and prefer to do the procedure at the end of the week so that they have the weekend off. Other than the use of sunscreen, no specialized after-care is required. back to top
Thermage, Accent, Pelleve & BOTOX® Treatments
Q: I’m considering getting a treatment to tighten the skin around my eyes. Do I need to stop the BOTOX® treatments I’ve been having for the lines?
A: BOTOX® therapy is an excellent method for smoothening the lines around the eyes – and there is no conflict with using Thermage, Accent, or Pelleve. In fact, some patients choose to have both treatments on the same day. Pelleve has been especially successful for treating around the eyes and brow to achieve more supple and lifted skin in this area. This frequently results in a more defined upper eyelid crease and a more youthful appearance. Of course, those who treat the whole face can expect to see an improvement in their overall look, not just the eyes. back to top
Thermage, Accent, Pelleve – Are they safe?
Q: I’ve just learned that there is a non-surgical facelift called Thermage. No surgery is one thing, but is it safe and is it painful?
A: Thermage is a well-known and non-invasive method for treating loose skin. Accent XL is another radiofrequency treatment used for skin tightening, which can be done quickly and has been compared by many patients to a warm massage. The Pelleve tightening system has a small hand piece that allows us to target the under eyes and brow areas. These treatments are safe, and patients are kept very comfortable throughout. The comprehensive clinical research is well respected in the medical world. back to top
How many Skin Tightening Treatments are Required?
Q: How many Thermage, Accent, or Pelleve treatments will I require before I see results?
A: Results are as individual as each person’s skin. These treatments actually stimulate new collagen production, so tightening happens gradually. Studies show measurable tightening happens over a two to six month period following the treatment. Many patients see results sooner and find one session produces the look they want. Whereas some patients may wish to repeat their treatments a few times per year as part of their skin care maintenance regimen. Through consultation, we can identify the right treatment program for you.
Is Laser Hair Reduction Safe for all Skin Types?
Q: My friends and I are so sick of shaving and waxing that we got to thinking about Laser Hair Reduction. Is it safe and effective for all skin colours?
A: More and more people are choosing laser hair reduction because of the superb results. Over the years, thousands of people have come to us for laser hair reduction. In fact, ours was the first clinic in Canada to provide the service. And keeping up with technology ensures our patients the best of benefits and safety. We currently offer four sophisticated lasers for hair reduction, each with advantages for different skin types.
Treating Upper Lip Vertical Lines with BOTOX®
Q: My girlfriend just had her lips enhanced with Juvederm and BOTOX®. I’ve heard about Juvederm for lips, but why BOTOX®?
A: BOTOX® placed selectively above the upper lip reduces the vertical lines and prevents them from getting deeper. These lines are caused by pursing the lips, which happens in speech. Smoking makes them worse. Eventually lipstick bleeds into the lines. Small amounts of BOTOX® can also enhance the upturned edge—the vermilion border— to create a pouty look. And using BOTOX® in the lip also helps the effect of dermal fillers such as Juvederm last longer. back to top
Treating Rosacea
Q: My face is so red I look permanently sunburned! I’ve been told it’s rosacea, is there way to get rid of it?
A: If you are like millions of people, you may be suffering from rosacea, a skin disorder that causes redness across the nose and cheeks. The red and bumpy look of rosacea is often mistakenly presumed to be alcohol related. Yet rosacea can happen to anyone, and usually worsens with middle age. While there is no cure for rosacea, it is absolutely treatable. There are many ways to improve this condition, starting with a good home care regimen and no downtime treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light. Besides getting the red out, these treatments usually smooth the texture of the skin and result in a brighter more even skin tone. back to top
Treating Adult Acne & Acne Scars
Q: What treatment do you recommend for adult acne and acne scars?
A: You are not alone—acne affects 80 per cent of the human population. Until recently, the only effective treatment for severe acne was Accutane, but it has many side effects. Now people with acne and scarring can choose Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). PDT effectively treats moderate to severe acne with a photosensitizing natural compound called Levulan and/or intense pulsed light (IPL). There is no downtime and unlike Accutane, there are no systemic side effects. PDT is used to detect and treat early skin cancers, acne and rosacea, and to minimize pores.
Early Skin Cancer & Photodynamic Therapy
Q: My face is covered with white marks from the liquid nitrogen treatments I had for early skin cancers. Is there a better treatment now?
A: Don’t feel bad. Liquid nitrogen has been used to burn off early skin cancers for decades, but it can leave white scars. Today, you can choose Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), which doesn’t leave scars. PDT uses a photosensitizing compound called Levulan on the skin and activates it with intense pulsed light and/or a Blu-U light. The Levulan works directly on the early skin cancers, removing them without scarring. As a bonus, the skin feels silky smooth with finer tone and texture. Levulan even targets cancers not yet visible to the naked eye.
BOTOX® and the “Browlift” Effect
Q: I’m getting married this summer and I want to try BOTOX® for the “brow lift” effect. How far ahead of my special day should I have the procedure?
A: Fallen brows can leave a person looking tired and old. A lifted brow is a sign of youthfulness and a lateral brow flare can be a sexy, feminizing feature. BOTOX® is the only non-surgical procedure to lift your brow besides radiofrequency tightening options such as Pelleve. Many of our patients are combining their Botox and Pelleve Eyes & Brow treatments to optimize the lifting and shaping effects of both. You can have BOTOX® as early as one week to smooth out those dynamic wrinkles but the effect will even be better at four weeks. Your brow is the cosmetic center of your face. It deserves special attention. back to top
Discolored Skin and Neck Lines
Q: I have discolored skin and lines across my neck. Can anything be done about this?
A: The condition you are describing is likely poikiloderma of Civatte, a red-brown discolouration on the sides and front of the neck. Thankfully, it can be faded with Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments. The lines on the neck that are horizontal are called necklace lines. The vertical lines are playsmal bands and can resemble a turkey’s legs. And they will age even the most youthful face. If you want to ease them, you can have BOTOX® injected along the necklace lines or platysmal bands. Of course, a combination of IPL and BOTOX® would give the best overall result.
Treating Dark Eye Circles
Q: What can be done about the dark circles around my eyes? More sleep is not an option!
A: Dark circles around the eyes are usually due to vascular congestion and /or pigment. Vitamin K creams can help reduce the congested vessels. Skin brightening agents can help address the altered pigment. Additionally, retinol creams can not only help to reduce pigment but also prevent the breakdown of collagen which is so important for the thin skin around the eyes. These products must be used very carefully as they can cause irritation if used without proper instruction. Other options involve the use of Intense Pulsed Light treatments to lighten the area and even dermal fillers such as Juvederm. back to top
What is Lipodissolve & Mesotherapy?
Q: I’ve been hearing so much about this new face and body sculpting called Lipodissolve and/or Mesotherapy. What is involved in this procedure?
A: Lipodissolve is an innovative cosmetic application of mesotherapy, the practice of injecting small amounts of medication and/or vitamins into the skin. Lipodissolve specifically targets localized fat and cellulite deposits and slowly dissolves them with injections of phosphatidylcholine, a fat-dissolving natural substance that is derived from soy bean lecithin. It’s the next big thing in cosmetic rejuvenation in North America. The Vancouver Laser and Skin Care Center is currently offering treatments in Vancouver.
Lipodissolve/Mesotherapy: How many treatments are needed?
Q: A few of my friends have had Lipodissolve/Mesotherapy treatments and are thrilled with their results. How many treatments do you need before you notice a difference?
A: For some people, Lipodissolve is an excellent method for smoothing the skin and eliminating fat deposits in a clinical setting. You can obtain results in usually three to six treatments. These treatments consist of a series of small injections into the target areas of localized fat. Lipodissolve uses a natural substance called phosphatidylcholine, to eliminate fat with few side effects. It’s the latest hype in magazines and media, in North America and is available in B.C. at the Vancouver Laser and Skin Care Center. back to top
How does Lipodissolve and/or Mesotherapy compare to liposuction?
Q: I’ve just learned that there is a new non-surgical alternative to liposuction called Lipodissolve/Mesotherapy. How does it compare?
A: Lipodissolve is a faster, safer and less expensive way to eliminate fatty pads and cellulite deposits than liposuction. Lipodissolve treatments consist of small injections of a natural soy bean substance that is highly-effective for dissolving the small, stubborn fat deposits that resist diet and exercise. Doctors in Europe and South America have been using Lipodissolve with success on thousands of patients for over five years. It’s gaining popularity in North America because unlike liposuction, it is very precise, can smooth the skin and doesn’t involve a general anesthetic or a hospital stay. It’s the next big thing in cosmetic rejuvenation in North America and is available in B.C. at the Vancouver Laser and Skin Care Center.
Does Lipodissolve and/or Mesotherapy treat cellulite?
Q: I’ve been hearing a lot about Lipodissolve for treating cellulite. What kind of side effects does it have?
A: Lipodissolve is gaining popularity as a non-invasive method for eliminating fat and cellulite safely and comfortably. Lipodissolve is an innovative treatment that precisely targets and dissolves stubborn fat deposits through small injections of a soy bean derivative called phosphatidylcholine, a substance the body itself uses to break down fat cells. The method has been used on thousands of patients with great success. It is performed in a medical setting, but doesn’t require a hospital stay as it is a quick office procedure with minimal side effects such as temporary bruising, itching and soreness for a day or two. It’s the next big thing in cosmetic rejuvenation in North America and is gaining widespread popularity in B.C. at the Vancouver Laser and Skin Care Center.
Non Surgical treatments to minimize wrinkles?
Q: Even the most perfectly smooth skin is going to have some wrinkles. What kinds of treatments are available to minimize or eliminate wrinkles?
A: While fine lines and wrinkles cannot be permanently eradicated, there are some excellent choices to minimize and to ease that tired older appearance that wrinkles give to the skin. Crow’s feet, wrinkles round the eyes, furrows on the forehead, tiny lines around the lips and the mouth — these are the complaints we hear most when it comes to wrinkles. Treatments that we recommend and have found to be successful are combinations of BOTOX® and dermal fillers such as Juvederm which can also be added to skin tightening and toning treatments such as Accent XL, Pelleve, and Thermage which are the latest advances in non-surgical facial tightening. Treatments such as these combined with a great home care regimen will help aging skin look it’s best. back to top
Advantages of using BOTOX® & Juvederm together
Q: What are the advantages of using BOTOX® and Juvederm together?
A: Advantages are many. Both procedures are non-surgical and neither requires general anesthesia; the results are seen quickly. The use of Botox and Juvederm together has been coined the Soft Lift and has been getting a lot of attention in the media for it’s dramatic and non-invasive results. The procedures take only a few minutes and the results can be subtle or dramatic depending on your desired outcome. Patients can return to their everyday activities immediately. Neither BOTOX® nor Juvederm hamper future cosmetic treatments should a person elect to have other procedures, even plastic surgery, in the future. In fact, many surgeons agree that skin that has been well maintained prior to a surgical face lift yields a better and more natural result.
How do I optimize cosmetic filler results?
Q: What can I do to optimize cosmetic filler results?
A: Dermal fillers like Juvederm and Restylane do a terrific job of smoothening out lines around the mouth, facial wrinkles and facial folds. The results are easily enhanced with the addition of BOTOX® treatments. In fact, wrinkles such as frown lines and crow’s feet, respond better with BOTOX® than a filler agent. The combination of the BOTOX® and filler will allow the filler to last longer. Semi-regular maintenance when your schedule and budget permits, prolong the results of filler. To make the most of non-invasive anti-aging skin treatments, you could also include a skin-rejuvenating or skin tightening procedure to stimulate collagen.
How long will my filler last?
Q: Everyone says something different, how long will my filler last? A: Dermal fillers like Juvederm are made from hyaluronic acid. One of the reasons why there are varying responses to this question is because there are many factors to consider such as: the type of filler used, the placement of injection, the area being treated, not to mention the individual patient. When referring to Juvederm we suggest that filler to the cheeks and nasolabial folds will last six months before one might consider adding more. Areas such as the lips, may need touch-ups sooner than one year. Many of our patients maintain their results with annual treatments. back to top
What are spider veins?
Q: What are spider veins?
A: Spider or varicose veins are small red, blue and purple blood vessels that often appear on the face and legs. They look like tree branches or spider webs with short jagged lines. They can be treated with sclerotherapy and/or lasers. Sclerotherapy is a simple procedure whereby the visible veins are injected with a sclerosing solution, which causes them to collapse and fade from view. If this hasn’t worked for you in the past, it may be that you have underlying incompetent veins which can only be found and treated with ultrasonic mapping.
Before proceeding with any cosmetic procedure, we encourage you to call or contact us with any questions.
