How to Layer Your Skin Products?

Skincare can be confusing. From the toners, the serums, the a.m. moisturiser, the p.m. moisturiser etc ….your skincare regime can quickly turn into a nightmare!

Order Matters, Here’s Why

You might have the most amazing skincare products in the world, however if you’re applying them in the wrong order, you will NOT be getting the full benefits.  In fact not only will incorrect application diminish the overall effectiveness of your routine, it can leave your skin dehydrated, irritated or with break-outs!

Studies have found that matching a good skin care regimen with a healthy lifestyle is the best way to slow the signs of aging.

Think Thin-to-Thick

So which order should product be applied? An easy rule of thumb is to cleanse and then simply apply products with the thinnest consistency to the thickest.

This generally insures that:-

1) The products with the most important ingredients penetrate into the skin efficiently (eg antioxidants & active ingredients in serums).

2) You will finish with the products that help lock everything  in.

Step 1: Makeup Remover

If you wear makeup or sunscreen during the day, then a double cleanse in the evening is a must (you can skip this step in the mornings). SO either use makeup wipes, micellar water OR another gentle makeup-removing cleanser.

Step 2: Cleanser (or exfoliation)

Once your makeup is off, it’s time to actually clean your skin. You can start here in the mornings. In the evenings, this step will also ensure that you haven’t left any makeup remover residue on your skin (where it could lead to irritations or breakouts).

Starting the day with a gentle cleanser (or cleansing mask) will ensure the serums and moisturisers (that are layered on afterwards) will penetrate properly. It will also allow for a smoother make-up application (during the day).

An exfoliation product may replace a cleanser in this step once or twice per week.

Step 3: A Modern Day Toner

Back in the day, toners were harsh alcohol-based liquids that often irritated the skin. However today’s toners are filled with gentle ingredients to help clear pores and add nutrients to the skin.

Step 4: Serums

Remembering THINK to THICK!

Serums are usually super-concentrated and nutrient-dense, to address specific concerns (such as general aging, pigmentation or dehydration). SO it’s important that the skins pores efficiently absorb serums first.

See here for a good example of a hydrating day serum. OR here for more information on Retinol serum (for night).

Step 5: Lock it in!

A Moisturiser cream ‘locks in’ all of the active ingredients and hydration that you’ve just applied. Preferably use a am cream in the morning and a pm cream at night. 

The best time to apply a moisturiser is while the skin is still slightly damp, so theres no need to wait until your serum is completely dry before applying a moisturising cream. 

Step 6: Optional add-ons 

Eye cream , foundation, additional sun cream 

Remember thin-to-thick!!

Fortunately Rodan + Fields has made all of the above super easy

Rodan + Fields skincare products are based on a ‘multi-med therapy’ philosophy. This means using the right ingredients, in the right formulations, in the right order. To see real changes in our skin, it is vital to use high quality ingredients in safe and effective amounts and formulations.

Rodan + Fields takes safety and efficacy very seriously. In order to achieve desired results (without adverse effects), each formulation has undergone months of rigorous clinical testing and has a clinical grade 99.9% purity. Did you know that other ‘cosmetic grade’ products are only approximately 70% pure (with no audits) and often contain bacteria.

With Rodan + Fields Multi-Med Therapy, great skin and the confidence and self-esteem that come with it, are within your reach.  To find out which product line is best for you please visit the Solution Tool …..& Write Your Own Prescription for Change.

Kleresca- The Breakthrough in Dermatology

Achieve Healthy Skin With Kleresca

A breakthrough in dermatology has been getting great results all around the world.

Kleresca® is a non-invasive treatment for skin rejuvenation, rosacea and acne. It involves fluorescent light energy which stimulates the skin at the cellular level.

• Inspired by photosynthesis 
• Stimulates skin at a cellular level
• Increases collagen by approximately 400%
• Reduces inflammation
• Reduces fine lines
• Reduces pore size
• Has a high safety profile
• Is generally perceived as very comfortable (even to rosacea sufferers with enhanced sensitivity).

Another bonus is that there is no destruction of the skin’s natural barrier.

How is the treatment performed?

1. The skin is cleaned and Kleresca® Skin Rejuvenation gel is applied.

2. The gel is illuminated for nine minutes using the multi-LED Kleresca® lamp; together creating fluorescent light energy that stimulates the skin.

3. The gel is removed and the skin is cleaned and moisturised.

The treatment is based on the interaction between the specially designed photo converter gel and the Kleresca lamp. The fluorescent light penetrates the different layers of the skin, stimulating repair and collagen production.

Kleresca Acne Treatment

Kleresca is a breakthrough treatment that safely improves acne without discomfort or downtime. The treatment combines a specially formulated gel which is applied to the face prior to going under the high intensity multi-wavelength LED light. The combination of which kills the acne causing bacteria and initiate’s healing. It will also help fade acne scaring. A treatment course is recommended – consisting of 2 treatments per week for 6 weeks.

Kleresca fluorescent light energy stimulates the skin’s own repair mechanisms:-

• Killing bacteria responsible for acne (P. acnes)
  Reducing inflammation
• Normalising cellular activity
• Reducing signs of scarring by increasing collagen build-up

Kleresca Rosacea Treatment 

• Reduces inflammation, reducing the presence of papules and pustules 
• Reduces erythema and blushing by improving microvascularisation
• Reduces the overall stress level of the skin, thereby reducing the feeling of burning and stinging
• Induces a healing response, improving the overall skin quality
• Is suitable for sensitive skin.

Learn more about rosacea here

Kleresca Skin Rejuvenation

• Induces collagen production
• Reduces pore size
• Helps eliminate fine lines
• Reduces signs of scars

Clients at Laser Clinics Australia on the Northern Beaches have been describing Kleresca as a pleasant and comfortable experience.

See here for more information

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / dermatology)

Acne 101

Acne is the most frequently diagnosed condition by dermatologist.

It affects nearly 85% of people at some point in their lives.  Whatever your age, the psychological impact can be significant. People with acne can suffer from embarrassment and low self-esteem. 

The Cause?

To put it simply, acne occurs when the oil glands (pores) in the skin become blocked with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria.

Our sebaceous glands are meant to produce sebum, which is an ‘oil’ designed to keep the skin lubricated and soft. However, when hormonal changes and other factors cause the gland to produce an excess of sebum (OR thicker than normal sebum) the problem arises. The pore becomes blocked and there is a higher chance that bacteria will multiply, leading to inflammation and acne.

Acne usually starts at puberty when increased levels of certain sex hormones (known as androgens) create an increase in the size and oil production of glands.

Hormonal acne can return again in our 30’s, as our levels of androgen hormones increase. Testosterone (an androgen hormone) stimulates sebaceous glands in women to secrete ‘thicker’ sebum. This can cause clogged pores and an increase the likeliness of ‘adult Acne’.

ACNE CYCLE

One of the most common misconceptions is that breakouts form overnight. However, the acne cycle begins days or even weeks before blemishes reach the skin’s surface. The acne cycle starts when hormones trigger sebum production. The sebum combines with dead skin cells, which leads to clogged pores. When pores are clogged, acne bacteria can quickly multiply, resulting in inflamed acne blemishes.

What can contribute?

• Hormones! Especially during the teenage years and then again during perimenopause.
• A high G.I diet – studies have shown that a high-glycemic index (GI) diet (refined carbohydrates like those found in white bread and also sugar) can increase Acne. It’s suspected that raised insulin levels from high GI foods may trigger a release of hormones that inflame follicles and increase oil production. Also ….sugar feeds bacteria!
• Stress hormones – such as cortisol can increase inflammation and stimulate oil glands.
• Family history.
• Poor gut health.
• Too much unfermented dairy, gluten and sugar – which can all cause inflammation.
• Using the wrong skincare products – commonly ones that are too harsh and can breakdown our protective lipid barrier
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (Zinc & Vitamin A).
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – This is due to increased levels of androgen (or ‘male’) hormones – testosterone and DHEA. Acne caused by PCOS tends to flare up in ‘hormonal sensitive’ areas around the lower part of the face.
• Wearing heavy foundation. Some makeup can clog your pores. So while you might be tempted to cover your acne with lots of base and concealer, try to resist. Instead, consider a more breathable tinted moisturiser or foundation like Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid which is non-acnegenic (so it won’t cause breakouts).

Common Problem:- Why do I have dry skin yet still get breakouts??

It’s a common misconception that breakout prone skin ‘must be oily and therefore needs to be dried out’. When in fact dehydrated skin (common in adults more than teens) is often part of the problem, particularly with ADULT acne. A lot of the products on the market are in fact too drying and add to the problem!

So it’s important to understand the difference between dry and dehydrated skin. Skin that becomes dehydrated from over use of harsh products becomes more prone to bacteria getting in. This is due to a compromised skin barrier.

The key is to use products that will help prevent pores becoming clogged (with bacteria, dead skin cells and sebum), whilst keeping the skin hydrated at the same time. 

What can be done to help?

• Topical Retinoids such as Retinol : which helps with the skins natural cellular renewal process. This can then help with acne and also wrinkles. Retinoids can be either prescription strength or OTC.
• Suplementation with Zinc and Vitamin A.
• Omega 3 supplementation – found in fish oil, Sea Buckthorn & flaxseeds clear acne by inhibiting two inflammatory chemicals that are responsible for acne breakouts, they are called PGE2 and LTB4. Omega-3’s do wonders for all inflammatory skin conditions.
• Improving gut health.
• Oral prescription medication such as short term antibiotics (and I stress ‘short term’ due to the disruption in gut health’) or in severe cases Accutane (a synthetic vitamin A derivative). Note Accutane can have irritating side effects and must not be taken when pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Stress management
• Gently Cleanse your face and body as soon as you can after exercise.
• Dietary adjustments. Cut out unfermented dairy which worsens acne because it spikes the acne-causing hormone IGF-1 & can increase inflammation.A low GI diet (ditch the white carbs and sugar).
• LED Light Therapy & Kleresca
• R+F Unblemish & Spotless  – see below 

TEEN VS. ADULT ACNE

 

R+F Unblemish

WHO IS IT FOR?

For adults who have acne and ageing concerns like dullness, uneven skin tone and texture, and loss of firmness.

WHAT IS IT?

UNBLEMISH addresses adult acne by drying and exfoliating, and reduces visible signs of ageing.

Clears current blemishes, unclog pores and reduce visible redness caused by acne, while preventing new breakouts from forming. 

The skin-clarifying four product pack is based on a philosophy of Multi-Med Therapy. This is all about using the right ingredients and active cosmetics, in the right formulations, in the right order. It’s a systematic approach and the results are guaranteed. Each regimen is designed to last 60 days and they’re backed by a 60-day money back guarantee – that’s how confident the company is that you’ll see results.

R+F Spotless

WHO IS IT FOR?

For teens and young adults, to help dry out and clear existing acne and prevent new blemishes from forming.

WHAT IS IT?

SPOTLESS is an easy-to-use 2-step Regimen that helps dry out and eliminate current breakouts and prevent future breakouts.

You can’t put a value on a boosted self esteem/ confidence. 

To purchase click here

 

Note:- If you sign up for PC Perks (Preferred Customer Perks) you will receive insider information, access to specials, enhanced customer service, 10% off all Rodan and Fields products, and FREE shipping. 

 

See here for more tips to control acne

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / Dermatology)

Why Exfoliate?

One of the fastest and most effective ways to brighten up dull skin is to exfoliate — that is, to remove old skin cells, revealing newer skin underneath.

SO …. Out with the old; in with the new

Exfoliating helps with cell turnover, the natural shedding of dead cells that slows down as we age. If these cells accumulate, skin can feel rough and look dull. Exfoliation helps remove some of that debris, so skin is smoother and reflects light more evenly.

Some of the below extract taken from DermRF

There are two different ways to accomplish this instant New Year’s transformation: Mechanical exfoliators polish away dead cells using granules, such as sugar or salt crystals. Chemical exfoliators, which include glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid, dissolve the bond between old cells and the newer ones underneath.

So which exfoliation method is better? Rodan + Fields founders Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields recommend both. “We’re fans of both gentle chemical and mechanical exfoliation, with the key word being ‘gentle,” they explain in their book Write Your Skin a Prescription for Change. “In our experience, it takes the perfect combination of the two to dissolve the bonds between cells without irritating skin and to sweep away dead cells, leaving skin soft and smooth.”

The Doctors’ advice: “Don’t overdo it.” If you don’t exfoliate regularly and want to start, or if you’ve only used one kind of exfoliator and would like to add the chemical or mechanical product you’re missing, give your skin time to get used to it:

1. Start slow, and don’t overscrub. If your skin looks red or feels raw, take a break and give it a chance to recover.

2. Treat your face and body differently. The skin on elbows, knees and heels may respond well to daily exfoliation, while your face may prefer it every few days. And avoid the temptation to use a body scrub on your face; the exfoliating particles may be too aggressive. (If you’re looking for one scrub formulated for both face and body, try R+F Enhancements Micro-Dermabrasion Paste.).

3. For best results, moisturize after you exfoliate.

Why else do we love Enhancements Microdermabrasion Paste?? …because they’re eco-friendly (see here)

Looking for more great dermatological skin products? See here

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / Dermatology)

Get Your Weekend Glow On

Spray on Tan allows you to look good and feel great all year round without the risks of skin cancer and the harmful suns ageing effects.

Many people associate the glow of a tan with youthful health. Yet as we know, research shows that the bronzed skin we get from the sun leads to premature wrinkles and skin cancer. SO it’s no surprise that alternative tanning is a big business.

Spray on Tan

Not only is it a safer alternative to sun baking and solarium use; Spray tanning allows for an even colour, any time of the year – rain, hail or shine.

It can also help disguise stretch marks, cellulite and uneven skin tone.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is the ingredient that creates the tanning effect. DHA is derived from NATURAL sugar cane. It has a long history of safe use.

TechnoTan Spray Tan is made up of naturally derived ingredients and is:-
• Cruelty Free 
• Vegan Friendly
• Alcohol and Paraben Free

The (2 hr) Bio Tan contains DHA + other exotic ingredients known for their anti-aging, moisturising and hydrating properties – such as Moroccan Argan Oil & coffee extract. It also contains the amazing Centella (famous for its skin repair and rejuvenation).

Tan Prep

For best results exfoliate the day before. This will help remove dead skin cells and to smooth and prepare the skin for an even tan.

On the day leave all deodorant / perfumes and moisturisers off the skin so the tan can absorb evenly.

Where to find the best spray tan on Sydney’s Northern Beaches?

Total Look Beauty Salon in Freshwater

For a great ‘at home’ tanning option see here

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

The Truth about Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are long, narrow scar-like streaks that develop on the skin. They usually occur when the skin cannot resume normal form after a period of being stretched or shrunk quickly. This includes:-

• A growth spurt during puberty
• Pregnancy
• Weight gain
• Bodybuilding- Rapid development of muscle mass

Stretch marks result from:-

• The tearing of the dermis (middle layer of skin).
• The normal production of collagen (which makes up the connective tissue in our skin) being disrupted when the skin is overstretched.

Stretch marks can also be called striae, striae distensae (SD), striae atrophicans, and striae gravidarum.

There is some evidence to suggest that genetics can sometimes play a role in susceptibility to stretch marks. 

Approximately 75% of women experience stretch marks from pregnancy.

Early stretch marks are usually red or purple. Over time, stretch marks lose their colour and become white or silvery in appearance. 

Although less common, stretch marks can also be caused by:-

• Certain Medical conditions: such as Marian Syndrome, and Cushing’s syndrome. Marfan syndrome can cause decreased elasticity in the skin tissue, and Cushing’s syndrome can cause an over production of a hormone (cortisol) that leads to rapid weight gain and skin fragility.
• Prolonged use of corticosteroid creams and ointments (such as hydrocortisone)- which can decrease levels of collagen in the skin.
• Also -people who have to take high doses of oral corticosteroids for months or longer.

Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to stretch marks. Especially low levels of Zinc, Vitamin C and Essential Fatty Acids. A diet high in processed foods can often cause a deficiency in these nutrients.

Foods that can help

A diet high in essential fatty acids (EFA’s) help maintain a healthy skin cell membrane. Fish rich in EFA’s include salmon, sardines, mackerel (& other oily fish). Certain nuts & seeds, avocados, and flaxseed oil are also good forms of EFA’s.

Vitamin C is an important nutrient for the development of collagen. Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables. Eg Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons, berries, cherries, papaya, peppers (capsicum) kale, broccoli etc.

Protein is required to make Collagen. Good sources include lean red meat, fish, chicken, eggs, dairy & lentils.

Zinc is also important for collagen production, as well as skin repair and healing. Zinc rich foods include nuts (especially brazil nuts), fish, meats (such as beef, lamb, pork & turkey), eggs, dairy, quinoa and legumes. These zinc rich foods are important to help keep your skin healthy.

Vitamin A protects skin health and also encourages the formation of new skin cells. Liver and cod liver oil are excellent sources Of Vitamin A. Other good sources include bright orange vegetables and fruits (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, mangos and apricots) and leafy greens such as spinach and kale.

What else can help

Staying hydrated

Drinking enough water can help keep our skin supple and hydrated. As does applying topical hydrating and moisturising products. Soft hydrated skin tends to be more elastic and does not to develop stretch marks as easily as dry skin does.

Hyaluronic acid

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD),  two large studies showed that applying hyaluronic acid to early stretch marks made the stretch marks less noticeable.

Retinol 

Another study showed that people who applied a good strength Retinol cream every night for 24 weeks had less noticeable stretch marks. Those who didn’t apply the cream saw their early stretch marks grow. Other studies have found similar results.

Sunless self-tanner

While tanning can make stretch marks more noticeable, a good quality sunless self-tanner can camouflage stretch marks.

The following procedures can decrease the look of stretch marks:-

• Fractioned Laser Therapy – helps stimulate the skins collagen and elastin. There are various types of laser therapy. C02 Laser Therapy is another. See more here
• Skin needling .  See more info here
• Chemical peels – resulting in peeling off the top layers of damaged, dead skin to activate new skin cell production. 

Other

Oder stretch marks that are white or shiny silver in appearance, are much harder to treat. On the other hand, if they are redish or pink in colour, there is a better chance of improvement.

 Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse / Dermatology)

The Link Between Chronic Inflammation & Our Skin

Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response. It is our body’s attempt at self-protection to remove harmful stimuli (such as bacteria) and begin the healing process. Inflammation can be beneficial in the short-term. For instance -let’s say we get a cut or a graze to our skin. Immediately, our immune cells step in to protect against pathogens and heal the wound. This is called acute inflammation. Your white blood cells step in to do their job and then go away.

However there’s another type of inflammation that sticks around way longer than it’s meant to. This is called Chronic inflammation and can cause harm to our bodies in many ways.

Chronic inflammation can be the root cause of common skin disorders such as acne, eczema, psoriasis & rosacea. It can also contribute to premature aging, some mood disorders, hormonal imbalances, certain autoimmune disorders and disease. 

Our skin is our body’s largest organ, and when inflammation is out of control, it can manifest in multiple skin problems.

Numerous things may fuel chronic inflammation. This includes inflammatory foods we eat, certain medications, environmental factors and stress.  This then leads to systemic inflammation affecting the entire body. See gut blog for more information.

Triggers of inflammation

• Stress
• Viruses, bacteria, yeasts or parasites
• Food allergies
• Long term use of certain medications
• Toxins such as mercury and pesticides
• Lack of exercise
• Mold
• Lack of sleep
• Environment allergies
• Inflammatory foods

What FOODS cause inflammation and should be Limited?

• Refined Sugar
• Too much Omega-6 fatty acids – as mentioned above.
• High-fructose corn syrup – not only increases inflammation but can also inhibit the anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Processed meat
• Gluten
• Too much caffeine
• Dairy (ie non-fermented dairy)
• Processed foods, especially those that are high in high-fructose-corn-syrup, sugar and sodium.
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• See more on inflammation/ gut health here

Omega-3 Vs Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that the body needs for normal growth and development. However these two fatty acids compete for absorption. Our bodies need a healthy balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. It is Omega-3’s that help reduce inflammation in our bodies. So …an excess consumption of omega-6s (and not enough Omega-3) can trigger inflammation.

Omega-6 fats are derived from linoleic acid and are found in certain oils like peanut, corn, sesame, sunflower, soy, and safflower. These oils need to be limited in our diets. 

A recent study showed a significant reduction in psoriasis flare ups (ie reduced area of rash, and improved thickness and redness of psoriasis) – after supplementing with a high quality omega-3 fish oil supplement (containing EPA & DHA). The study authors suggested doses of 0.45 to 13.5 grams of EPA and up to 9 grams of DHA daily.

Foods which help reduce inflammation 

• Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids – such as extra virgin olive oil, oily wild caught fish such as salmon, sardines, t rout, anchovies and mackerel. Flaxseeds, sea buckthorn walnuts. A good quality Omega-3 supplement can also help ease inflammatory skin issues. 
• Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale. Also other colourful fruit and vegetables (the deeper or brighter the colour the richer it is in nutrients and antioxidants).
• Fruit esp berries – berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries etc) contain antioxidants called anthocyanins which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Note:- Grass fed meat is better than grain fed meat.
• Foods high in antioxidants help reduce damage caused by inflammation.
• Probiotic rich foods (or supplements).
• Turmeric root & ginger
• See more anti inflammatory super foods here.

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

Contact

Protect, Glow + GO – with Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid

DERMACOSMETICS Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid with SPF 25 – the last necessary step in your skincare regimen that protects and perfects!

Introducing the new, groundbreaking tinted Glow Guard, Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid Broad Spectrum SPF 25. Formulated with dermatology-inspired skincare ingredients to deliver a radiant, healthy-looking complexion in six flexible shades.

What is Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid?

Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid is a multi-tasking Glow Guard that perfects the look of skin and protects your natural glow, delivering a radiant, healthy looking complexion. Formulated with R+F’s proprietary RD3 Complex, it provides skin with three types of defense: environmental defense, barrier defense, and photo defense.

This innovative product not only provides powerhouse protection but also instantly perfects skin, blurring imperfections without clogging pores or causing breakouts.

Radiant Defense is available in six luminous shades. Coverage is buildable so you are in control of the perfecting process.

Why Do We Love this New Product?

• Environmental Defense: helps neutralize the harmful effects of environmental aggressors.
• Barrier Defense: helps repair skin’s natural moisture barrier to defend itself against dry, irritated skin and the visible signs of emotional stress.
• Photo Defense: Contains broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against sun damage caused by UVA and UVB rays and absorbs infrared light.
• Rodan + Fields’ proprietary RD3 Complex combines a powerhouse of ingredients including an exclusive peptide, which acts as a shield alongside antioxidants such as Blueberry Fruit Extract and Red Algae.

 

Who can use Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid?

This product is for all skin tones from fair to deep. It comes in 6 flexible, natural looking shades. It is also appropriate for all skin types, even for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It is non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.

Use as the last step of your skincare routine to protect and perfect the glowing skin you’ve earned. ****LAUNCHING 2 OCTOBER 2018*****

Click here to purchase

See recent press here

 

The Anti-Aging Beauty Booster Treatment

The Game Changer for Skin

 

Is your complexion dull? Is your skin dry? Or thinning with age? Are dreaded lines and wrinkles appearing? If you are looking for a treatment to repair, hydrate and plump up your skin, the Beauty Booster (by Mondeal Aesthetics) could be the solution for you.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is naturally present in our body and performs a fundamental role in keeping our skin healthy and looking youthful. See here for more amazing benefits of HA.

As we age, our skin can loose up to two-thirds of its hyaluronic acid pool. At age 35, the skins thickness has decreased on average by approximately 22%. This results in our skin being more fragile, thinner, less elastic and less hydrated.

What is Beauty Booster?

The Beauty Booster is a unique skin hydration treatment which targets:-

• dehydrated skin
• tired-looking skin
• fine lines and wrinkles
• crepey looking skin
• thinning skin

The Beauty Booster can be used to achieve healthier looking skin on the face, under eye area, forehead, neck, décolletage and hands.

Beauty Booster treatments have a plumping effect on the skin

What does it involve?

The treatment involves fine micro-injections (by a medical professional) of a hydrating formula made up of hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, amino acids, minerals and vitamins. This unique formula stimulates ongoing collagen production, regenerating and nourishing the skin.

A specialised The injector gun is the delivery device that allows the practitioner (a specialist Registered Nurse or Doctor) to efficiently place the product beneath the skin. It offers precise depth and accurate dosing for a quick and effective treatment with minimal pain and downtime.

Areas treated

• Face
• Neck
• Décolletage
• Hands

What are the results?

The Beauty Booster treatment has a wide range of skincare benefits. The results are visibly lighter, smoother, and softer skin after a few treatments, while the effects are subtle and natural looking. Soon after the first treatment session the skin will appear less creased, more hydrated and supple. The treatment can asist those with Melasma

For optimum long lasting results, it is recommended to have 3 initial sessions, at 3-week intervals. Then for maintenance, a treatment once or twice per year is ideal.

Does the treatment hurt?

The micro-injections are shallow and performed with very fine needles. For added comfort the product does contain lidocaine. This is a commonly used local anaesthetic. A topical numbing cream can also be applied prior to the treatment.

Downtime?

On average, there is fairly minimal downtime. Directly after treatment the skin will appear pink and blotchy. Some people will have absolutely no bruising post treatment; others, particularly with very fragile skin, may experience slight bruising and blotchiness which can take up to 4 days to settle. Downtime is reduced after each subsequent treatment of Redensity [I] due to the dermis being repaired. We recommend Oxygenetix, a breathable skin foundation, to mask any effects.

For more FAQs regarding Beauty Booster see here

For another amazing less invasive Hyaluronic product visit here

To book a consultation or treatmentwith Victoria (Registered Nurse) please contact:-

Laser Clinics Australia

Warriewood  ph 02 83192078

Brookvale ph 02 80148911

Or Contact Victoria

Please note;-

This treatment should only be performed by either a Registered Nurse or a Doctor.

As we are unable to advertise drug names in Australia the term ‘Beauty Booster’ has been used.

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse)

 

Cosmetic Injectables – The Low Down

Wrinkles and volume loss are a natural part of the ageing process – our skin gets thinner and our body decreases its production of natural collagen and elastin. You can prevent and reduce the effect of wrinkles with cosmetic injectables.

Anti Wrinkle Injections

Every time our facial muscles move (when we speak, make facial expressions etc) our skin moves too. This is called ‘dynamic movement’ and produces dynamic wrinkles. Overtime, dynamic wrinkles turn into ‘static lines’. Meaning  ….they are permanently etched into our skin.

Anti-wrinkle injections (we are unable to advertise the specific drug names in Australia) work to prevent the formation of static wrinkles by stopping the signal between the nerve and muscle (temporarily causing the muscle to relax). The decreased movement in the muscle places less stress on the skin, helping maintain a fresh and youthful appearance. This treatment is very effective when used as a preventative measure. Anti-wrinkle injections are made from a purified protein.

Some deeper wrinkles can be treated with dermal fillers (see below) which replace the volume that has been lost under the skin.

Over time, our skin’s natural ability to protect itself reduces. Muscle contractions and movement leave their mark. Anti wrinkle injections can be an effective treatment to help reduce and prevent wrinkle formation.

Typical areas treated:-

• Crows Feet
• Frown Lines
• Forehead Lines
• Bunny (nose) Lines
• Gummy Smile
• Masseter / Jaw muscle (teeth grinding) see here for more info on non-cosmetic treatments.
• Headaches
• Hyperhydrosis (excessive underarm sweating)

A very fine needle is used to inject the muscle relaxant into selected facial muscles. Discomfort is minimal and brief. Most people describe it as an ant-bite sting lasting a few seconds. The treated area may appear to have small ‘mosquito bites’ for a few minutes after the injections. This is completely normal and is due to the fluid sitting just under the skins surface (for a few minutes until is is absorbed into the muscle). The wrinkle-smoothing effects of the injection on average lasts for 3-4 months.

It is pretty much uncommon to be allergic to Botox. However if the product is placed OR migrates to the wrong area it can cause an unwanted effect. Following the correct aftercare and being treated by an experienced injector will almost completely prevent this from happening.

Fillers

As we age, we start to lose volume in certain areas of the face which can make us look tired and sunken. This is caused by;-

• A decrease in adipose tissue under the skins surface.
• The body’s decreased ability to produce collagen and elastin.

Unlike wrinkles which require muscle relaxants to soften them, facial volume and folds require a dermal filler to help re-volumise and hydrate the area.

Dermal fillers are made from a natural sugar already present in the human body called hyaluronic acid (HA) . They can replicate the function of this naturally occurring substance and can restore fullness and volume in numerous facial areas.

There are different types of filler ranging from ‘thicker / denser’ filler that has a higher lift capacity and can mimic bone structure and replenish larger areas of volume loss. Then there are ‘thinner filler’s’ that is better at mimicing softer tissue (such as lips). The longevity of a hyaluronic acid filler is determined by the amount of cross-linking of the gel molecules. The more cross-linked the product the ‘firmer’ it can be and longer it will last. Typically Dermal Filler product longevity will range from 6 – 24 months.

Typical areas treated with Filler

• Mid face (eg cheek area, under the eyes, nasolabial folds etc).
• Lower face (eg smile lines, chin, corners of mouth, marionettes etc).
• Lips (volume can be restored, lips can be hydrated or enhanced).

Results from dermal fillers are almost instant and generally last from 6 to 24 months -depending on the product used.

Bruising and slight swelling are possible (temporary) side effects from dermal filler injections. Certain areas are considered ‘higher risk’ for filler and carry an increased chance of more serious complications. This includes the nose, temples and frown area.

It is possible to achieve natural looking results with both anti wrinkle and dermal filler injections.

Finding an Experienced and Qualified Cosmetic Injector

Its important to always confirm the qualifications and experience of a cosmetic injector. Having a face-to-face consultation with them before undergoing any treatment is important to ensure you feel comfortable with them.

What to consider:-

• Are they a cosmetically trained Registered Nurse or Doctor?
• How often do they perform cosmetic injectable treatments?
• Are they qualified? – and NO a one or two day course does NOT mean they are qualified or experienced enough to be treating you!
• Do they have a good sense of austhetics?
• Is the clinic reputable?
• Is there an experienced prescribing doctor associated with the clinic?
• Do they offer complimentary consultations?

Although a Doctor, Dentist or Nurse may consider themselves capable of performing cosmetic injections -if they have not undertaken extensive training specifically in cosmetic injections and aesthetics, then they should not be treating.

For more information OR to book a complimentary consultation see here

Other:-

No studies have been performed on the safety of treating pregnant or breastfeeding women with dermal filler or muscle relaxants. SO it is NOT recommended.

Victoria Isherwood 🙂