Advanced Aesthetics

The Power of Retinol Without the Sensitivity of Retin-A

2011-08-11T21:29:00.000-04:00

Many clients want the benefits of Retinoic Acid (commonly referred to as Retin-A) like firmer skin, smaller pores and decreased oil production, but due to Rosacea, an active sun exposed lifestyle or simply the irritation and peeling caused by Retin-A, these folks avoid the product and therefore do not reap the benefits. We now have an amazing new product to offer that truly delivers on all fronts and is quickly becomming one of our #1 selling products. Refine A is here!

Why use Retinoic Acid or Refine A? It is well documented that Retinoids are by far the #1 topical product available today to firm the skin, and when used over time can truly reverse skin laxity and prevent many signs of aging.

What Happens as Skin Ages?

With aging there is decreased activity and disorganization of basal cells in the deeper layer of the skin. This results in thinning and wrinkling of the epidermis, or upper layer of the skin. Because of decreased shedding of the dead skin cells that normally occurs as new cells form from below, the layer of old cells on the skin's surface thickens, causing it to become a coarser more dull "lack luster" texture.

Collagen is the structural protein found in the dermis which gives strength to the skin. It becomes depleted and disorganized, causing skin wrinkling. With sun exposure there is increased activity of the melanocytes in the deeper dermis. These cells produce melanin, which gives the skin color, and therfore leads to the development of freckles, sun spots and darkening moles.

How does Retin A Work?

When Retin A is applied to the skin it penetrates to the deeper layers of the dermis. The following changes are seen:

There is an increased activity of the basal cells which causes an increase in their number and improvement in their shape and organization. This leads to a thicker, more level skin surface with less wrinkling.
With this increase in new cell production there is less clumping of old cells on the skin's surface, thus further improving the texture and smoothness of the skin.
In the dermis, there is increased production and improved organization of new collagen fibers. This leads to thicker, more supple and less wrinkled skin.
Blood vessel growth is stimulated, this leading to better circulation. This might also account for the slight blush or pinkness which is often seen with the use of vitamin A.
The melanin pigment of the skin tends to be disbursed faster, moving upwards and outwards as a result of the increased rate of cell turnover. This leads to less prominent and fewer freckles, sun spots and bothiness.

Refine A gives you all of the benefits of traditional Retinol and Vitamin A creams without the sensitivity, redness, peeling, dryness, and irritation. Unlike other Retinol and Vitamin A products, Refine A does notcause sun sensitivity. Refine A is an essential part of any serious anti-aging regimen and works synergistically with other products to achieve optimal outcomes.

Contact me if you would like to try Refine A! Email Barbie!

Anti-Aging Clothing? You Bet!!!

2011-04-08T14:29:00.001-04:00

There’s more to skin care than facials and creams, now there is clothing to rejuvenate your skin. Using fluorescent pigment dyes and tightly woven fabrics Sun:Soul introduces clothing that not only protects the skin for harmful UV rays, but delivers a powerful anti-aging or acne treatment at the same time.

This innovative technology promotes healing, even tone and texture and helps reverse previous sun damage, all while offering a UPF of 50+. Dr. Dave Christianson of Advanced Aesthetics in Tampa Bay says, “With the significant amount of sun my patients receive in Tampa Bay, I highly recommend the Sun:Soul products to not only protect from future damage, but also help reverse existing UV damage”.

Sun:Soul offers a variety of products for boaters, runners and most active lifestyles. The Yelomöd converts the suns rays into anti-aging infrared and yellow light stimulating collagen remodeling and lightening hyperpigmentation. Blumöd is made to heal acne and blemishes on the skin.

Learn more about Sun:Soul at www.sunsoul.com, enter this code deve0003 and receive a discount on your purchase.

Sun:Soul products can be found at Advanced Aesthetics in Tampa and Lakeland, FL.

I drink a TON of water...why is my skin so dry?

2011-02-23T21:49:00.000-05:00

Drinking plenty of water, while necessary for overall good health and bodily function, the amount of water we drink does not necessarily correlate to the outer layers of our skin's hydration or lack thereof. Water will help flush toxins from your system, which contributes to clear, healthy, bright skin, but water intake alone just won't do it for daily skin hydration on our faces and our bodies.

The outermost layers of our skin is our armour against the world and all its daily attacks. Here are just a few of the things our skin deals with each day that contribute to dryness:

Hot showers/hot tubs - while hot showers and hot tubs feel great and relaxing, excessive hot water and all the chlorine and additives in our water are big contributors to dry skin. A few things to help counteract this are:

Try lowering the water temperature
Take a shorter shower/bath <15 minutes is best
Within 3 minutes of your shower, gently pat your skin dry and then apply a moisturizer, one of my faves is a shea butter based moisturizer

Pollutants in the air - car exhaust, smog, cigarette smoke, pollen, etc. A 1997 Berkeley study showed that exposure to ozone concentrations drained the skin's supply of Vitamin E by 25% in as little as two hours. People are more prone to this risk in cities with high ozone densities, such as Los Angeles and Mexico City. Smoke and dust also absorb the moisture in the skin, leaving it parched.
Even climate-controlled environments can play a part in drying your skin. Modern-day mechanical wonders, such as centralized heating and air-conditioning, can actually cause humidity levels to drop inside the living space and cause dry skin. Forced-air furnaces and fireplaces also contribute to dry skin. Devices such as household humidifiers can help prevent this.
Lack of sleep also promotes dry skin. The body naturally repairs damaged skin cells during this resting phase. Getting enough sleep is probably the simplest thing you can do to avoid dry skin.
Lack of exercise can also contribute to dry unhealthy skin. Even 30 minutes of aerobic exercise 3 times per week increases blood flow, which increases oxygen levels and nutrients delivered to tissue which increases skins brilliance, clarity and more.
Medical Conditions - there are a host of medical conditions that contribute to dry skin; thyroid imbalances, diabetes, digestive issues to name a few.

So, what do we do to keep our skin hydrated and supple?

For our Bodies...

Be aware of your environment. Hospital workers, flight attendants and those who work in environment with recycled air are encouraged to moisturize twice daily and especially after showering.
Get plenty of rest, at least 8 hours per night to rejuvenate
Use a humidifier in your home to replenish moisture in the air
Get moving 30 minutes/3 times per week!
Check with your physician if persistent dry skin doesn't improve with moisturizer, humidifiers and proper rest. You may have a condition that needs medical attention.

For our Faces...

Exfoliating the dry outer layers of skin on a regular basis is important. Removing these dead layers allows moisturizers to penetrate deeper where they can restore the moisture barrier.
Applying moisturizer both morning and night is imperative to keeping your sin plump
Use UVA/UVB sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage which causes a myriad of issues including leathery dryness.

These are a few suggestions to get you started on softer more supple moisturized skin!

Latisse Lashes Longer, Thicker & Darker...see my results!

2011-02-22T18:45:00.000-05:00

REPOSTED:

I have been faithfully using my Latisse every other night and am seeing great results. It seems as though overnight, I see my lashes getting darker and thicker. I noticed the length increasing over the past few weeks, but the pigment and thickness seems sudden.

Understand, Latisse directs the user to use
the product each night, however, I find that nightly is too much for as I start to experience dry scratchy eyes. I have found that using the product every other night is just fine for me and I am still seeing great results.

I am also not using the applicator included in the package. I have chosen to use a very small eyeliner brush, and simply dampen the brush with the Latisse product,
just enough to feel the product dampen lash line of my upper lids without dripping.

By using minimal product I decrease the chance of the product dripping or rolling to areas I DON’T want lashes or hair to grow, and increasing the longevity of my supply. I understand why the manufacturer’s, Allergan(the makers of Botox and Latisse), instruct users to utilize a new applicator for each eye each night and one drop for each eye (FDArequirements), however, I have found my system to be working beautifully and delivering great results.

Attached (to the right)are photos of my lashes from October 27, 2009, I had been using

October 27, 2009

the product for about 3-4 weeks.

I apologize for the picture not being super defined, was having camera issues! Notice the thickness and darkness of the pigment.

Below are new pics taken today, November 17, 2009. You can see thicker, darker and longer lashes! I have no mascara on, and no flash on the camera.

November 17, 2009

I am very pleased with my progress so far and welcome your questions, comments and testimonials, I would love to know if the product is working as well for you!

Skin Care Ingredients...Helping you understand the labels!

2011-02-22T18:42:00.000-05:00

Ever wondered what all those really long words mean listed on the label of your skin care products? It’s important to understand what you are putting on your skin so that you are sure the products you use are targeting your skin care needs and not making them worse. The list below is not a complete list of everything contained in skin care ingredients, but it is a good start and certainly includes many of the ingredients used in todays anti-aging products.

Allantoin – A botanical extract from comfrey root. Medical grade allantoin, is a proven cell-healing agent that stimulates healthy tissue formation. It also helps promote the repair of photo damage and reduces UV induced inflammation.  

Antioxidants – Ingredients which help the body resist free radicals that damage the body and prematurely age the skin. Different antioxidants target different areas of the skin to accomplish different tasks. It is believed that some antioxidants may hold the key to stimulating fibroblast activity to repair the dermis.     

Avobenzone – This synthetic sunscreen ingredient (also known as Parsol 1789 and Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane) can protect against the entire range of the sun’s UVA rays.    

Bambusa Vulgaris Extract (Bamboo Extract) – A highly effective antioxidant complex that helps minimize and control wrinkles, with natural anti-inflammatory properties.  

Bisabolol – A botanical extract derived from Chamomile or Yarrow known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits.  

Caffeine – Topical application results in mild constriction of blood vessels and subsequent decreases in blood flow, which aids in diminishing dark circles under the eye area.

Carrot Polypeptides (Daucus Carota Sativa Root) – A naturally derived form of Vitamin A. Promotes rapid utilization and absorption of Vitamin A. Supports Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition to protect against collagen destruction. Potent antioxidant.

Cucumber Fruit Extract (Cucumis Sativus) – Cools and refreshes the skin and has anti-inflammatory and skin tightening properties.  

Crosslinked Sodium Hyaluronate – Purified, highly potent form of Hyaluronic Acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the fluids surrounding cells and tissues. Hyaluronic Acid is found in abundance in young skin, and becomes depleted with age. Loss of Hyaluronic Acid contributes to loss of elasticity, sagging and wrinkling of the dermis and epidermis. Crosslinked Sodium Hyaluronate is topical version of one of the most widely acclaimed wrinkle fillers. It delivers 4-5 times more hydration than Hyaluronic Acid, and represents a true breakthrough in technology. Combined with other actives, it is unparalleled in both attracting and binding humectants and moisture to the skin. It ´s extremely potent in adding volume lost by the aging process – temporarily smoothing out facial lines and wrinkles. The inclusion of this ingredient will have an immediate and visible effect on the skin.    

Dimethicone – OTC ingredient with a breathable barrier bolsters skin´s natural defenses. Creates a two-way “zone of inhibition” that prevents the entry of harmful external irritants and potential environmental skin-agers and prevents the exit of vital moisture. Due to its ability to remain present, active and effective for extended periods of time, Dimethicone puts skin in heightened state of preparedness against unexpected factors that can compromise skin´s health and well-being. It also smoothes and heals.

Emu Oil (Dromiceius Oil) – ALSO POTENT SOURCE OF EFA´S – This highly moisturizing, natural skin softener has rejuvenating properties and has been shown to help reduce the depth and length of fine lines and wrinkles. It is non-greasy and highly penetrating. It is also non-comedogenic (does not clog pores), non-irritating and gentle for all skin types. It is also an effective anti-inflammatory.

Essential Fatty Acids – EFAs – Natural components of skin which help to make up the outer layer. They help protect the body against oxidative damage. EFA´s form basic building blocks of body fats and cellular membranes. Topical EFA´s improve skin´s water retention and help “water-proof” the skin. If your skin is dry, prone to inflammation, and frequently dotted with white heads and black heads, you may be lacking essential fatty acids, nutrients that are crucial to the production of skin´s natural oil barrier. Without an adequate supply of EFA´s, the skin produces a more irritating form of sebum, or oil, which can result in skin problems.

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) – The ultimate cell regenerators. These marine-derived complex proteins help support collagen structure and increase skin´s elasticity.    

Green Tea Leaf Extract (Camellia Sinensis) – A super antioxidant with many health and healing benefits.  

Homosalate – A recognized sunscreen that filters out UVB rays, which do their damage at the cellular level.  

Licorice Extract (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) – Extracted from the roots of the Licorice plant, it is used topically as a natural skin lightener and anti-inflammatory.

Evening Primrose Root Extract – One of the family of essential fatty acids, which form the basic building blocks of cell membranes. When used as a topical ingredient, Evening Primrose Oil has moisturizing and softening effects.

Octinoxate and Octisalate – Sunscreens used to protect skin primarily from the sun´s UVB rays: the longer wavelength “burning” rays.  

Peptides – Proteins are long chains of amino acids. Peptides are short chains of amino acids which serve as “messengers” that regulate various functions in the body and on the skin. Different peptides have different functions: some activate hormonal activity, others antibiotic activity, still others activate wound healing and skin repair.

Palmitoyl Oligopeptide (Ceramide-2) – Independent studies have shown that Ceramide-2 enhances the production of collagen and GAGs and supports the growth of matrix and connective tissues.  

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide 7 – A powerful anti-inflammatory that helps promote tissue regeneration resulting in normalization of damaged skin. Skin looks and “acts” younger renewing its strength against photo aging and environmental damage.

Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract – Contains vital amino acids and proteins necessary for the production of collagen and elastin. It also fights free radicals, thus helping to prevent new wrinkles from forming.  

Punica Granatum Extract (Pomegranate) – An excellent external astringent for oily complexions. In addition, recent studies cite it as a potent antioxidant. Pomegranate Extract contains several polyphenols and anthocyanidins (pigment that gives certain fruits their dark red colors) that are said to have a higher antioxidant activity than that of red wine and green tea.

Resveratrol – A plant extract from the stalks and stems of the vine. It provides a natural defense mechanism and is a leading anti-oxidant. 100% of the benefits are released into the skin helping to defend against UVA/UVB exposure. It also reduces irritation and puffiness.  

Retinol – This is a derivative of vitamin A and is the active ingredient in found in several important prescription skincare products such as Retin-A and Renova. Retinol is proven to improve mottled skin pigmentation, skin texture, tone and color, enhance skin hydration and help decrease fine lines and wrinkles.

Saccharomyces Lysate Extract – A derivative of yeast, this ingredient helps foster cell respiration.

Salicylic Acid – Often referred as beta hydroxy acid (BHA) – A multifunctional ingredient with a multitude of properties – including anti-microbial — that address many systemic causes of blemishes. It also improves collagen production.

Sodium Dehydroacetate – Made from organic salt. It is used to fight bacteria and fungi on the skin.  

Sorbitol – A humectant found in berries, grapes, plums, and pears. Often used in place of glycerin as a moisturizing agent in topical skincare.  

Tricontanyl PVP – A film-forming agent used to improve water resistance properties and enhance SPF properties.  

Vitamin B (Panthenyl and Panthenyl Ethyl Ether) – A moisturizing agent for skin care. Also aids in tissue repair.  

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Sodium Ascrobyl Phosphate) – Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin. Unlike most mammals, humans do not have the ability to make their own vitamin C. Therefore, we must obtain vitamin C through our diet. Vitamin C is required for the synthesis of collagen, an important structural component of skin. Vitamin C is also a highly effective antioxidant. Even in small amounts vitamin C can protect indispensable molecules in the body. Vitamin C also helps promote healing and minimizes hyperpigmentation by reducing melanin production. Researchers attribute Vitamin C to helping reverse existing damage deep within the skin and may also give the skin a boost in natural resistance to UVA/UVB damage. In addition, Vitamin C helps regenerate Vitamin E in the skin, enabling it to sustain its antioxidant protection.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate – Stable form of super potent Vitamin C. Shown to increase collagen by 50% in vitro studies. Promotes whitening/lightening of dark circles and counteracts hyperpigmentation. Offers extremely potent antioxidant protection.

Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) – Considered an antioxidant superstar. Vitamin E is a lipid-soluble vitamin (meaning it likes fat better than water) that when applied topically to skin provides significant antioxidant protection against ultraviolet rays. It combats free radical damage and protects from the adverse effects of oxidative stress including photo aging. Vitamin E also enhances moisturization and minimizes cell damage caused by inflammation.

Vitamin F (Linoleic Acid) – An essential fatty acid (EFA) which has emollient, water binding, and antioxidant properties for skin.

Yeast Extract – Comprised of a complex mixture of proteins, sugars and amino acids, it is an excellent humectant which may enhance the rate of cell turnover. It also helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by working to block melanin synthesis, revitalizes skin with moisture while it fights dryness and restores elasticity to skin.

Botox, the bottles, needles, etc.

2011-02-22T15:34:00.000-05:00

Ever wondered what a Botox needle looks like, the bottle, how it's mixed? Well, here you go....

This is an actual Botox vial

Notice the hologram on the bottle

Details on the back of EVERY bottle

This is mixed with Botox to create the liquid that's injected. Commonly known as saline.

The middle needle is used to inject Botox, MUCH smaller than a regular needle shown here at the bottom is a 27 gauge needle. The small needle makes the injections virtually painless.

If you ever have questions about what your injector uses, ASK! Ask to see the bottle, the needle, whatever it is, it's ok to ask questions!!!

If you have specific questions, please email us! barbie@a2tampa.com

Common Botox questions...does it hurt? Will I bruise? What's the crunch?

2011-02-17T14:45:00.000-05:00

I can't even begin to tell you how many times each day I am asked by Botox®Cosmetic virgins if it hurts. While I understand the question, we all want to know the price we pay for beauty, and often the price is more than simply dollars, it is often pain, downtime and poor result. However, in this case, the answer is no, not really, Botox® Cosmetic injections don't hurt anymore than getting extractions done by an esthetician (and actually, when performed by an experienced injector, you may not feel the injections at all).

I am a HUGE, big time, colossal needle phob., so trust me when I tell you that getting Botox is one of the easiest things you will ever do. Most, if not all injectors use tiny, tiny needles (30 gauge). These needles are the same needles used by diabetics to inject insulin on a daily basis, so think of how often those individuals have to inject themselves and how advances (including needle size) have made that a virtually painless process.

What you may feel is a pinch, not an excruciating pinch like your little brother gave you when growing up, but a fleeting sensation. This pinch doesn't always happen, but can in more sensitive areas.

What most folks don't anticipate is the sound you may hear when receiving Botox. As the needle passes through the tissue there is sometimes a "crunching" noise. It's hard to explain, but it does happen and it's strange the first few times you experience this noise. It doesn't hurt, and it is quick.

Bruising is another issue that can scare folks away from Botox. While there are no guarantees that you will not get a tiny bruise, it is unlikely from properly injected Botox. Keep in mind, anytime a needle is used, there is a chance of receiving a bruise. It's not the Botox causing the bruise, it's simply that the needle hit blood vessel. Careful injectors are aware of the most common "easy to bruise areas" and work very hard to avoid them, but some individuals are prone to bruising and it can happen. I recommend that my clients stop taking fish oils, ibuprofen and any blood thinning supplements (unless prescribed by their physician) one week prior to any injectable service. In a proactive attempt to prevent bruising or to help clear a bruise should you receive one, a homeopathic remedy, Arnica Montana in both pellet and cream form is highly recommended 3 days prior to your appointment and after should it be necessary.

It is important to find a provider who performs Botox injections frequently (like everyday). As in anything, the more injectables the physician or provider performs, typically, the better their technique. If you need reassuring and patience from your provider, shop around until you find someone with whom you feel safe and comfortable. Not all injectors are patient, don't be afraid to decline the procedure if you are not entirely ready or comfortable.

I have clients share their Botox® Cosmetic stories with me all the time, and it continues to surprise me how many injectors simply do not understand the need to make patients feel comfortable and at ease with the process. I spend a lot of time educating and explaining the process to my clients so that when they are ready to get their treatment, they know what to expect and feel prepared. After all you are paying for this treatment, you should be as comfortable and confident in what you are receiving as possible.

So, I leave you with these few tips...

1. Ask around your area, word of mouth referrals are usually the best

2. While pricing is important, don't rely on price points to dictate quality of service ($15/unit Botox is the same exact product as $10/unit Botox the higher the price does not mean a better injector and the lower the price does not mean a poor injector)

3. If you are afraid, go with a friend and watch him or her during their treatment, most injectors are completely comfortable allowing someone to observe

4. If you have a question...ASK!

5. Pre and post treat with Arnica Montana if bruising is a big concern for you

6. Dysport is NOT Botox, if someone tells you it is, LEAVE as they are not being honest. (I am not stating that Dysport is bad, simply that it is NOT Botox, they are molecularly different products (and Dysport is cheaper) and if someone doesn't explain the differences to you thoroughly, in my opinion it becomes an honesty issue)

7. Relax and in a few short days, you will see your results!!!

New Vit C Formula...POWERHOUSE for the skin!

2011-02-10T17:30:00.000-05:00

We have known for years that Vitamin C, used topically can improve skin tone, texture and overall health. We also know Vit C in its traditional formulation is one of the most unstable molecules and therefore, has a very short shelf life and efficacy expectancy. However, advances in the study of skin care ingredients has now brought us a new formulation of Vit C, that is significantly more stable, and effective.

This new formulation is, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is an oil-soluble form of Vitamin C, which is key in the formulation as it allows the product to penetrate deeper into the epidermis, as opposed to aqueous (water based) formulas. Human skin is both lipid and aqueous, therefore in order for a product to adequately penetrate it also needs to mimic this same composition or the skin rejects the product and we do not receive the full benefit. Many Vit C Serums also contain Vit E (Alpha Tocopherol) to create a serum that has a lipid ingredient. The problem with this combination is that Vit E is known to cause signifiant blackheads in many patients and therefore not an ideal formulation.

So, what does Vitamin C actually DO for our skin? It increases collagen levels, reduces melanin production (which causes brown spots), brightens skin, and actually repairs the effects of UV exposure and other environmental damage.

According to Epilution.com, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate also has the ability to stimulate the skin to produce glycosaminoglycans, natural moisturizers that allow skin to absorb moisture from the body itself.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is considered a mild version of Vitamin C, and also remains stable in air and water for up to 18 months, allowing it to serve as a long-lasting antioxidant…this is HUGE! How many of you have purchased a Vit C serum, only to have it turn dark brown after a couple weeks due to rapid oxidation?

Because this ingredient is significantly more effective in lower concentrations than traditional Vitamin C, it has also been found to be gentler and work in some people who are resistant to ascorbic acid (Natural-Skin-Care-Info.com).

According to a study published in Dermatologic Surgery entitled “Double-blind, half-face study comparing topical vitamin C and vehicle for rejuvenation of photodamage,” Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate “penetrates directly into the epidermis and dermis, acting both as an antioxidant and a direct stimulant of new collagen,” unlike other ascorbic acids, which are released into the stratum corneum and protect the skin only as an antioxidant. Significant improvement was found when patients applied a 7% concentration of Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate with a 10% concentration of ascorbic acid and saw a decrease in visible photoaging and increased collagen production, thanks to the delivery and penetration abilities of Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate.

This new formula can be found in Revision Skin Care’s Vit C 30% serum and Rejuva MD’s Vit C’s.