Scar Removal Cream

/5 Comments/in /by

Advantages and Disdvantages to Scar Removal Cream

Many individuals use a scar removal cream with the hopes that scars will fade away over time. Scars are formed when the deep layer of the skin, known as the dermis, is damaged. New collagen is then formed to help repair the damage the skin has sustained, and a scar is formed. These scars can either be raised or flat. To many, these scars are unsightly, or they could itch and be painful. On average, scars can take 6 months to two years to heal, but if they are unsightly to look at, many individuals will want to do something about it much faster.

Scar removal cream is one option that many turn to when they would like to have scars go away. Scar removal creams are loaded with vitamins and extracts to help repair the skin. They penetrate deep into the skin, where the skin has sustained the damage, moisturizing the skin and ensuring the skin has elasticity. The oils will hydrate the skin, making the skin appear to be healthier.

Are there any advantages to using scar removal cream? What are the disadvantages?

Scar removal creams are often fairly inexpensive. They are generally easy to apply, but they must be applied daily, sometimes more than once a day, to be effective. They are an effective way to moisturise the skin. Some disadvantages that many may see with a scar removal cream is they take quite a long time to work, and many individuals may not see the results that they are looking for. Add in the fact that not all scar removal creams are created equally, and may be made with harmful chemicals that could harm the skin more than it is helping it.

What are the alternative options to using scar removal cream?

Laser scar removal is one option that an individual may desire to use instead of scar removal cream. Fractional laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure that offers little to no downtime and is a simple procedure for dermatologist to perform. This popular treatment uses powerful lasers to break down the scar without harming skin around the scar. Fractional laser treatment uses short pulses of micro fine laser light that reaches deep into the skin. The outcomes for scar removal with fractional laser treatments is excellent, with only a few treatments needed ( usually 3 to 7). This FDA and TGA cleared treatment could take as little as half an hour to complete each time, with minimal discomfort being felt. It can be used on any part of the body.

Fractional laser treatments offer a way for individuals to remove scars much faster than scar removal creams. A scar removal cream might take weeks or even months to use before seeing if results will be available. However, with these alternative treatments, one can see results much, much faster.

Best Acne Treatment

/9 Comments/in /by

How to Choose the Best Acne Treatment

The best acne treatment can treat acne successfully, giving an individual’s skin a renewed glory. These best acne treatment are not harsh on the skin, but rather, help give the skin the treatment it needs to glow. There are many different kinds of acne treatments, including procedures that are done in a dermatologist office, creams, face washes and cleansers, toners and serums. Each individual will respond differently to various treatments.

What is acne?

To understand the best acne treatment for an individual, one will first need to understand about acne. Acne is defined as infected or inflamed sebaceous glands in the skin. Acne is often described as whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, papules, pustules, cysts, nobules, or zits. Acne can be present at any stage of life, but often happens during puberty or the onset of it. It is not a serious condition, but is often embarrassing for those that suffer with it. Acne is believed often to be caused by a rise in androgen hormone levels. Things that affect acne include stress, anxiety, menstrual cycle, oil based makeups, oily hair, picking at the skin, heredity, some types of medications, and hot or humid climates. Things that make acne worse include picking at the skin, pollution and high humidity, hard scrubbing of the skin, pressure from clothing or backpacks that rub against the acne area, and not keeping the hair or the skin clean enough.

Acne are very common, effecting about 75% of 11 to 30 year old individuals. It can appear on the face, back, chest, neck, and shoulders. There are different kinds of acne. Those kinds of acne include:

  • Whiteheads- clogged pores that are not inflamed. They are flesh colored and create bumps under the skin. They remain closed under the skin.
  • Blackheads- clogged pores that are not inflamed but are open under the skin. The sebum and keratin is oxidized due to the air, so the pores turn black.
  • Papules- A clogged pore that is inflamed. The area is usually tender and raised. Papules are not filled with pus, but can fill up with pus later.
  • Pustules- Pustules are hard, inflamed, and full of pus that is white or yellow in the center. They are often referred to as zits.
  • Nodules and cysts- A large painful bump under the skin that can scar and take some time to go away. Nodules will be filled with nothing but are hard, while cysts are filled with pus and feel like a fluid filled sac under the skin.

One very common practice for a best acne treatment is the Elos acne treatment, which was first introduced in 2000. Elos is the first and only technology of its kind, which combines blue light energy with bi-polar radio frequencies. This combination will penetrate deep into the skin to kill bacteria causing the acne, and will also slow the sebaceous glands from producing so much oil. It has been effective in treating all skin types, with a numbing cream used to help an individual’s comfort level. There is no downtime associated with this treatment, and normal activities can be done immediately after. Most individuals need 3 treatments that are spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, however, more or less treatments may be needed based on the condition of the skin.

Acne treatments work hard to heal the pimples and acne on the skin, as well as stop new pimples and acne from forming. The best acne treatments will prevent scarring as well as help reduce the pain and embarrassment of having acne. Often times the best way to prevent scars is to treat the acne early.

How does an individual pick the best acne treatment?

Not all acne treatments are created equally. Some have higher quality ingredients in them, or have higher concentrations of ingredients in them. Some use only medical or pharmacy grade ingredients. Some must be prescribed by a doctor or dermatologist, while other treatments must be performed in the dermatologist office. Which ever best acne treatment an individual has decided to use, there are some things he or she should look for in the best acne treatments. Those include:

  • Look for cleansers with benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria. Look for a concentration of 10% strength so irritation is minimal. Benzoyl peroxide is great for those with mild to moderate acne. Benzoyl peroxide is found in both OTC (over the counter) and prescription products. Those with sensitive skin should use caution using benzoyl peroxide as it can be very drying to the skin, and may cause burning or stinging.
  • Salicylic acid is found in many of the best acne treatments. Wipes, gels, sprays, creams and cleansers could contain salicylic acid. This acid can help to unclog pores, leaving the pores free from unwanted bacteria. Start with a 2% solution to start with as it can cause a mild stinging sensation.
  • Look for formulas that have an unprecedented amount of clinical actives. Without Surgery by Advanced Dermatology is a clinical care system that will not dry the face but rather alter the chain reaction that causes acne. This non-invasive skincare product was created by scientist with a concentration of 79%+ clinically active ingredients. Most brands only contain 10-20% clinically active ingredients. The ingredients fight all the types of acne listed above, fighting acne 3 times faster than other number one acne fighting systems.
  • Sulfur- Sulfur is used many times to remove unwanted dead skin cells. Use caution when using products with sulfur as they may have a strong smell and can cause excessive dryness. Sulfur is often combined with other ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide.
  • Alpha hydroxy acids are used in many OTC products. Two of the better known alpha hydroxy acids include lactic acid and glycolic acid. They are both derived from sugar containing fruits. Acne is treated with alpha hydroxy acids by removing dead skin and helping to reduce any inflammation on the skin. Smoother skin will form, which will create fewer acne scars.
  • Prescription drugs- Oral prescription drugs are often prescribed for individuals with moderate to severe acne. These oral drugs, or antibiotics, are used to curb the growth of bacteria that is on the skin. This will then decrease the inflammation in the skin. They are often prescribed to be taken daily, for up to 6 months at a time, then gradually tapered off as the skin clears.
  • In office procedures to treat acne. These could include the Elos treatment listed above, chemical peels, light treatments, and microdermabrasion.

To find the best acne treatment for an individual, it may be best to seek the care of a skin specialist. A skin specialist will be able to evaluate the skin, discussing several options that could be available to use for treatments. The treatments could be ones that are done in the skin specialist’s office, or could be products that were designed to eliminate acne. A combination of an in office procedure and at home use product may be needed to fully eliminate acne once and for all. Do note that many times a product can take 4 to 8 weeks for the skin to get used to the treatment to see results.

Bio Oil Acne Scars

/3 Comments/in , , /by

What is Bio Oil, and How Does it Work?

Bio oil acne scars is a skin care product, composed largely of plant extracts — such as calendula, lavender, chamomile, and rosemary — and refined into a topically applicable oil. It is designed to improve the look of stretch marks, acne scars, other scars, and many other skin imperfections. Supposedly, it improves uneven skin tone, such as in the case of dark spots in ageing skin. It helps to heal and eliminate stretch marks and prevent them during pregnancy or any period of intense growth changes or sudden weight changes.

But one of bio oil’s biggest uses is the treatment of acne scars. Acne scars are blemishes, usually raised or depressed pits, caused by the existence of severe acne. They form when pimples are destroyed, damaging the skin and, as with any injury, the skin must deposit attempt to heal the area. Usually, this causes a deposit of collagen. Acne scars are usually caused by “popping” or otherwise irritating acne, and people with predispositions are much more likely to get acne scars. Especially inflammatory acne or acne that is not treated during its course are also key in the accumulation of acne scars. There is very little research to suggest that bio oil acne scars works and we encourage our clients to check out our other treatments that assist with acne scars. (We want to just point out that the best way to treat acne scars is to prevent them, to treat acne while it is present, so that scarring does not take place)

Facelift-without-surgery

Bio Oil for Acne Scars

Bio oil acne scars is common. Bio oil aims to help reduce the appearance of acne scars by hydrating the inflamed patches that may be involved. Bio oil does not, ultimately, aim to eliminate acne scars, or to prevent acne.

When using bio oil for acne scars, make sure to avoid the sensitive eye area (as with most any topical product). Bio oil can do wonders for the skin, mainly in the area of hydration. Unlike heavier oils like mineral oil, bio oil acne scars is fairly mild and dissolves into the skin more readily. However, it is an oil, and therefore can easily stain clothes or other fabric and take a while to completely be absorbed by the skin.

Because bio oil is made from gentle, natural extracts (oils), it should not clog pores, and is not thought to make acne or acne scars worse. However, the basic function of bio oil is to provide hydration through the oils. Usually, acne is caused by (or at least exasperated by) oily or oil prone skin. Bio oil might hydrate dry parts of skin, or help to aid healing or prevention of scars and stretch marks, but combating oil with oil may not be effective. It does not address the underlying cause of acne, nor the underlying cause and condition of acne scars.

So, is bio oil for acne scars really a legitimate method? Not really. It won’t hurt you to try, but the truth is, bio oil’s essential ingredients and basic functions do not do much for acne scars. As well, it will not prevent more acne or scars to develop. It is not advisable to use bio oil to combat acne or acne scars caused by excessively oily skin. Although it likely won’t exacerbate the situation, it doesn’t have the capability to improve it with any significance.

So What Else Is There?

There are a number of other treatments for acne scars, with similar levels of effectiveness. Below, we name a few and how they work.

Creams

Cortisone cream, or hydrocortisone cream, is a steroid based topical ointment. More specifically, corticosteroids. They target inflammation, rashes, and other minor skin conditions. Corticosteroids are used to treat inflammation, most simply, which is what these creams do.

When used against acne scars, they aim to reduce the appearance and keep them from getting any worse. Although corticosteroids can have negative side effects, topical over the counter ointments usually are low concentration and don’t have significant negative consequences.

Fade creams, such as hydroquinone, aim to bleach skin in an effort to “fade” dark spots caused by acne scars. Like hydrocortisone cream, this is a topical over the counter remedy that can help to treat the appearance of acne scars. Other, less harsh treatments, such as the application of vitamin C, may also help improve and lighten skin in the presence of acne scars.

However, just like bio oil acne scars neither of these methods prove to yield any very definite results.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion involves the use of a burr, or a wire brush or harsh wheel, to abrade the top skin layer unlike the bio oil acne scars or the above mentioned creams. Basically, the first layer of the epidermis is scraped off, leaving the skin below exposed. By scraping and disturbing the skin, it hurts it, thereby forcing the skin to regrow a new layer. This can be used to treat skin almost anywhere on the body, and to help remove scars, but is usually used on the face, and is often used to treat acne scars.

The extent of dermabrasion depends on each individual case and its severity. Recovery from this procedure also depends on the severity of the treatment. After, it is important to keep the area from getting irritated, and to clean it regularly to prevent infection.

This method is somewhat extreme, and, to some, yields more negatives than positives.

Laser Treatment

Laser treatments, like laser skin resurfacing, is a newer method that is uniquely effective for the treatment of acne scars. It can also be used for treating other scars and wrinkles, to improve overall complexion and skin tone, and skin blemishes like sun spots associated with ageing. At Advanced Dermatology we recommend the Fractional Laser Treatment for acne scars, safest and most effective laser treatment.

Laser treatment will either target collagen, triggering the skin to create more — in order to fill and smooth out acne scars — or destroy the scar itself, allowing smooth skin to take its place. Either way, it is more effective than bio oil dermabrasion, creams, or most any other treatment for acne scars.

Treatment is quick and not at all painful, non-invasive, and overall better than other acne scar removal methods.

As well, unlike dermabrasion, there is no damage to the surface of the skin. It can only take one treatment, although sometimes a few more depending on the severity of the scarring. Your skin will come out literally like new after laser treatment — the definitive treatment for acne scarring.

How to get rid of Pimple Scars

/4 Comments/in /by

Best Pimple Scar Treatments: Fractional Laser or Skin Needling

Everyday many question how to get rid of pimple scars. Pimple scars are formed when a pore swells, which will cause a break in the follicle wall. If the lesion is very deep, it will be filled with infected material, which will then infect healthy skin tissue. New collagen will be formed, which helps to repair the skin. The skin will then form a scar. If too much collagen is formed, a raised pimple scar will be formed, which is called a keloid scar.

GET 40% OFF

Limited Time Offer. Claim your offer below for more details. Sale ends 14/06
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Many often wonder how to get rid of pimple scars. There are many professional treatments that can help get rid of pimple scars. Those include but are not limited to Fractional Laser treatments, Skin Needling. Each treatment can be discussed with your skin specialist that will be performing the procedure as to what the benefit or risks of each treatment is.

Fractional Laser Option

Many skin specialists will state one of the best ways on how to get rid of pimple scars is fractional laser treatments. This very safe and effective method has minimal risk associated with it. The treatment should be performed 3 to 5 times with a 3 to 8 week session in between each treatment. Results are typically seen within a week after the first treatment. Collagen will continue to build after the last treatment for 3 to 6 months. While price can vary, a treatment for the entire face is estimated between $900 to $1400. When deciding on how to get rid of pimple scars, it is best to know that fractional laser treatments works well on scarring that is mild to moderate.

Skin Needling Option

Another treatment many learn about when learning how to get rid of pimple scars is skin needling. Skin needling has been around since the late 1990s. A roller, which has more than 200 fine needles, is manually applied to the skin in a crisscross motion. Collagen is then stimulated once the skin is punctured. Typically 4 to 6 sessions are needed for skin needling, which are spaced out 4 to 5 weeks apart. A recovery time of 7 to 10 days is generally needed. Skin needling can be used on all skin tones and types. Cost will vary based on how big the treatment area is, with an average cost of about $400.

Should an individual want to learn how to get rid of pimple scars, they have many resources available at the dermatologist office. If pimple scars plague you, schedule a consultation with your skin specialist to review treatments that can help relieve any pimple scars. Learning how to get rid of pimple scars is a battle that can be won.

GET 40% OFF

Limited Time Offer. Claim your offer below for more details. Sale ends 14/06
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

MiraDry

/4 Comments/in /by

MiraDry Treatment

*This article is for educational purposes only and accurate as of October 2014. It does not form medical advice and does not relate to any treatments performed at Advanced Dermatology. Whilst we have evaluated the machine, we do not perform MiraDry treatment.

Miradry is a treatment that was approved by the FDA in January 2011 to reduce excessive underarm sweating. This procedure reduces sweat by up to 82%. Excessive underarm sweating is known as axillary hyperhidrosis. Axillary hyperhidrosis effects about 1% of adults with men and woman being effected equally. Stress and anxiety can play a huge role in hyperhidrosis, and it is believe to be a neurological response.

How does Miradry work?

Miradry works by delivering a controlled electromagnetic energy under the skin in the underarm region. Prior to treatment, the skin will be marked to help guide the treatment. Local anesthesia will be administered to keep individual comfortable. A hand held device is used to eliminate the sweat glands, while the top two layers of skin are cooled and protected. These sweat glands that are eliminated will not grow back, and the results are seen immediately. The results last since the glands will not grow back.

It is recommended that two sessions be done, spaced out three months apart. Miradry has a typical cost of $2,500 to $3,000 for two sessions, however, the price can vary due to where the treatment is being provided and who is performing the procedure. Treatment takes about 40 minutes to do.

What are the benefits to Miradry?

There are many benefits to having Miradry treatment done. One of the biggest benefits is the procedure is long lasting. This means an individual will not have to have repeat treatments to keep from excessively sweating. The procedure is very safe to do, and is non-invasive, meaning no cuts or incisions. There is no downtime associated with Miradry, as an individual can resume their daily activities after the procedure is completed, and start exercising again within a few days. Using Miradry, there has been a high patient satisfaction.

How safe is Miradry? Is there anyone that should not use this procedure?

Miradry is a very safe procedure for adults age 18 and over. It does not penetrate the skin too deep, and the electromagnetic energy is controlled. There has not been any reported incidences of fat loss or leaving a patient with loose skin. If anything, the procedure will tighten up the skin a bit. Only about 2% of sweat glands are located in the underarm region, so the body will still be able to cool itself properly. The procedure has been proven to be safe and effective in over 6,000 individuals.

An individual is a good candidate for Miradry is there are embarrassing sweat outbreaks, frequently has to apply antiperspirant, or has stained clothing due to excessive sweating. Miradry is not recommended for individuals that have a pacemaker, who need supplemental oxygen, or have a resistance of intolerance of local anesthesia.

Miradry uses anesthesia. Does Miradry hurt?

While each individual is different, Miradry has little pain. Many patients give it a pain rating of 2, based on a 1 to 10 rating with 10 being the most pain. There may be some slight pressure on the skin, and it will be slightly pulled. There will also be a warming sensation, with an occasional hot spot that only last for a few seconds.

After the treatment, the physician or dermatologist may recommend a pain reliever. Ice packs may also be used to keep the individual comfortable. There may be some localized swelling or soreness, which is completely normal and will subside in a few weeks. There may be a short term altered sensation in the skin of the underarms, but this will gradually go away.

What results should an individual expect?

Most individuals will see an improvement in the sweating as soon as the treatment is over. Underarm sweat is reduced on average by 82%.

*All product and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective holders. miraDry is the trademark of the Miramar Labs Inc. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.

Acne Vulgaris

/5 Comments/in , /by

Acne Vulgaris: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Acne vulgaris is a chronic skin condition due to the over activity of oil. This common skin disease is characterized by papules, comedones, seborrhea, nodules, pimples, and the possibility of scarring. Acne vulgaris is formed when oil and dead skin cells clog the pores of the skin. It can occur on any place of the body, and effects both men and women. It is estimated that 80-90% of teenagers are effected by acne vulgaris.

What causes acne vulgaris?

There are many causes of acne vulgaris. Those can include using cosmetics that have an oil base, high levels of humidity, which could lead to sweating (which can clog the pores), hormonal changes due to puberty, the menstrual cycle, stress, birth control pills, or pregnancy, certain medications (steroids, estrogen, testosterone, phenytoin), and heredity. An individual’s diet can also effect acne vulgaris. Diets high in refined sugars have been linked to this common skin condition.

What symptoms will an individual see with acne vulgaris?

There are many symptoms an individual may experience with acne vulgaris. Those include:

  • Blackheads -Dark spots on the skin that are caused by a small plug in the opening of the pore. These are also referred to as open comedones.
  • Whiteheads- White raised bumps on the skin, also known as closed comedones or pimples. Whiteheads are caused by oil and dead skin cells in the pores.
  • Nodules- Large, painful bumps beneath the surface of the skin
  • Papules- Small red bumps on the skin
  • Pustules- Small pus filled blisters on the skin that are inflamed and are tender
  • Cysts- A pouch of skin that can be filled with fluid, air, pus, or other materials
  • Crusting of the skin
  • Redness around the skin eruptions
  • Possible scarring of the skin

What steps can one take if acne vulgaris is present?

Should an individual have acne vulgaris, he or she should visit with their skin specialist to find a treatment plan designed to fit the individual’s needs. Other things that may be helpful to keep acne vulgaris under control is to wash the face daily with a gentle cleanser that will not dry out the skin. Be gentle with the skin, never scrubbing too hard. An individual will also want to keep their hair clean, shampooing daily if the hair is oily.

An individual should remember that there are things that are best avoided when dealing with acne vulgaris. This includes picking at the acne, washing the face too often, touching the face with the hands or fingertips, wearing tight headbands or ball caps or other items that cause friction or pressure on the skin, and using heavy oil based cosmetics or face creams.

How can a skin specialist help acne vulgaris?

Should an individual have acne vulgaris, and home treatment is not bringing relief, an individual can visit with his or her dermatologist. A skin specialist will determine what type of acne grade the individual has (grade 1 is mild while grade 4 is severe acne). The skin specialist may recommend a topical treatment be used to treat the acne, or could prescribe antibiotics to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation of the skin. The topical treatment could be one that is recommended that is an over the counter one, or one that is prescribed by the skin specialist. The skin speacialist may prescribe birth control pills to females to help clear up the acne. Acne vulgaris can also be treated with many treatments in the skin specialists office, including dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, laser and light therapy, comedo extraction, and acne removal (drainage and extraction methods).

If you suffer from acne vulgaris, contact one of our friendly skin specialist today and see how we can help you. At Advanced Dermatology we offer a range of skin treatments and acne skincare that will help with the acne vulgaris.

Laser Liposuction

/5 Comments/in /by

 Laser Liposuction Review

Laser liposuction is a non-invasive procedure which will remove unwanted fat from the body. It can be used on many areas of the body, including the face, neck, arms, back, chin, knees, thighs, and abdomen.  Laser liposuction can even be used to remove male breast excess. Those that may wish to consider laser liposuction include those that have mild to moderate skin laxity, as well as those that have excess fat in mild to moderate amounts. Those that have cellulite, scarring from a previous surgery or dimpling can also benefit from laser liposuction. Individuals should be within 30% of their body weight and be healthy. Many that diet and exercise but still can not lose the extra weight will find that they are a good candidate for laser liposuction. Laser liposuction is not intended for anyone that does not have good skin elasticity nor for those that have an excess of skin, or those that have lost an excessive amount of weight. Please take note that laser liposuction is not intended for those that would like to treat obesity, nor can it remove stretch marks or cellulite.

What can an individual expect during a laser liposuction treatment?

A low energy light will be used to break up the fat cells. There are two forms of laser liposuction. The first method utilises three steps:

  1. The laser will be used to break down fat cell walls, which in turn allow fatty oils to leak out. With this method, the small blood vessels are found in the skin which the laser will coagulate, which will lead to less bruising post procedure.
  2. The laser will then be used to stimulate more collagen in the superficial layer, or just under the skin. This will enhance the quality of skin in the post treatment period.
  3. Cell fragments and oils will then be removed, which leads to a reduction in size.

The second method utilises only the first two steps above. In step three, the cell fragments and oils will be absorbed into the body rather than removing them. This method is usually used where skin is not as thick, such as the face, or in areas of the body that only skin tightening is needed.

What are the risks and benefits associated with laser liposuction?

Just as with any procedure performed, there are risks and benefits. Risks for laser liposuction include contour irregularities, in which the skin is not smooth like it once was and instead has lumps. More surgery could be needed to correct this issue. Sagging skin can be experienced, especially in those individuals that have little elasticity to the skin. Bruising, swelling, and general discomfort may be seen after the procedure is done. To promote healing, individuals may wish to wear a compression garment that can also decrease swelling. Mild pain medications may be prescribed for any discomfort felt.

Benefits of laser liposuction include a reduction in blood fat levels, improved mobility, improved posture, reduction in inflammatory cells, and improved self confidence.

What can an individual expect after laser liposuction?

After laser liposuction is performed, an individual can expect the area to be wrapped firmly to help reduce any swelling, bruising, and pain. As soon as an individual feels comfortable, they may return to their normal activities.

How much is laser liposuction?

Laser liposuction costs will vary based on who is performing the procedure, the clinic where the procedure is being performed, the facility type an individual utilises (hospital or cosmetic clinic), as well as the area the procedure will be performed on and the number of areas that will be treated.

Under Eye Fillers

/5 Comments/in /by

Under Eye Fillers Treatment

Under eye fillers are used to treat dark circles under the eyes. This area is known as the tear trough, or the nasojugal groove. It extends from the inner corner of the eye, with a semicircular arc, transitioning into the palpebromalar groove. When the tear trough is deep, a shadow can form, creating the dark circles. Many with deep tear troughs look older than they are with a fatigued presence. Tear troughs are formed when the lower eyelid is tethered to the underlying facial bones. As volume is lost in the lower eyelid, the tear trough will become more apparent. The shadow, or dark circles, will become more prominent when the lower eyelid bags accentuate them. Under eye fillers, which are a non-invasive treatment that has very little risks and complications compared to surgery, are often used to treat those with dark circles or hollowed eyes.

Schedule your Free Consultation!

Restore youth and volume to your face with our incredible prices on Dermal Fillers. Learn more about our best prices.
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Consultations are subject to our standard terms & conditions which you can read here.

Who is a good candidate for under eye fillers?

Good candidates for under eye fillers include those that have good skin elasticity. The skin should also have an adequate skin thickness to it. When deciding if an under eye filler is right for a patient, the skin practitioner will check the position of the orbital rim to the tear trough.

Who should be allowed to inject under eye fillers?

Should an individual desire under eye fillers, he or she needs to take the proper precautions to find a skilled doctor to do the procedure. A doctor who has experience in injecting under eye fillers and has been specially trained is the best bet. The under eye filler will need to be injected deep under the muscle, rather than being injected into the superficial layers of the skin. An unskilled doctor could cause puffiness to the area if not injected properly. At Advanced Dermatology our under eye filler procedures are performed ONLY by registered medical practitioners.

Under Eye Fillers Cost

Under eye fillers cost on average $600 and up. The price depends on who is doing the procedure, the amount of under eye filler used, and the complexity of the under eye shadows. The results will eight months long, up to a year.  There are some side effects associated with under eye fillers, which include bruising, bumps, swelling, and under the eye area turning blue. Makeup can help cover any bruising. These side effects last about forty eight hours or less. A huge concern is injecting the under eye filler into a retinal artery, which could cause blindness, hence why the procedure should only be done by a skilled cosmetic doctor. Little discomfort can be felt during the under eye injection, however, a numbing cream can still be used. Usually no downtime is needed, and a patient can return to normal activities right away.

Tips to help with under eye filler injections

There are many things that an individual can do to make sure the under eye filler used is successful.

  • To avoid bruising, avoid vitamin E and anti coagulating medications prior to application. Ask your skin practitioner how long these should be out of your system prior to injection, but in most cases, at least 10 days will be needed. Applying ice after the under eye filler is injected might help with bruising as well.
  • Should minor bruising or swelling occur after the procedure is done, Arnica Montana is a herbal treatment that can be used to diminish this.
  • Avoid being treated with under eye fillers if a big event is in the near future.
  • Avoid exercise for twenty four hours after procedure to reduce chance of swelling.
  • Ask your skin practitioner to see before and after pictures. Be certain that the cosmetic doctor has performed many successful under eye filler injections. Always know who will be performing the procedure, as well as who will be helping with the procedure.

Schedule your Free Consultation!

Restore youth and volume to your face with our incredible prices on Dermal Fillers. Learn more about our best prices.
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Consultations are subject to our standard terms & conditions which you can read here.

Keloid Scar Removal

/7 Comments/in /by

Best Treatments for Keloid Scar Removal

PLEASE NOTE: Advanced Dermatology does not treat keloids at this current time. This article is for education and information purposes only. 

Keloid scar removal is needed by many individuals that need keloid scars removed. Keloid scars are an overgrowth of scar tissue formed around an injury of the skin after the wound has healed. Keloid scars grow beyond the borders of the original injury and are raised, with a shiny dome appearance. They are in the pink to red range in colour, and tend to be itchy, tender or painful to the touch. They are formed many times after burns, body piercings, boils, acne, surgical wounds and lacerations. They are more commonly found in individuals with darker skin tones, with a peak age being between 10 and 30 years of age. They are less commonly found in the elderly. They are found equally in men and woman, and develop the most on the chest, shoulders, back, and earlobes. They are seldom found on the face, and will usually appear in the jawline when on the face. A keloid scar can take up to a year to form, but are seen developing about 3 months after the damage to the skin first took place.

Keloid scars may hamper movement, so over time, it is often necessary to find a keloid scar removal treatment.

What are some keloid scar removal techniques?

A keloid scar removal technique could be to leave the scar alone and let it shrink over time. However, the scar will still be present. Many laser methods can not target the depth of the keloid to completely remove a keloid scar. However, a keloid scar removal technique found to be effective in reducing the appearance of a keloid scar is the V-beam laser. The V-beam laser is a pulsed dye laser. This means the energy is delivered in pulses and a dye will be used help generate beams of laser light in different colours. The laser will target the blood vessels, heating them, which will cause them to collapse. A cooling spray is used to help reduce any pain associated with the process. This is one of the safest lasers on the market, as scarring, blistering and infection are extremely rare. The most common side effect is bruising. Serious damage to the eyes can take place, so eye protection must be worn at all times during this keloid scar removal treatment. Should an individual have a history with cold sores, it should be noted on the patient’s chart, as the V-beam may activate the herpes simplex virus. After the treatment, the skin will most likely look red and swollen. This should last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. To have optimal results with the V-beam laser, 3 to 5 treatments will often be needed. A single treatment is typically priced between $350 to $800.

Other keloid scar removal techniques include surgery, cryotherapy (using liquid nitrogen to freeze off the scar), steroid injections, or use of silicon sheets. Keep in mind that using surgery as a means of keloid scar removal could result in more scars. Steroid injections will be given once every 2 to 6 weeks until improvement is seen, while the use of cryotherapy could result in a side effect of hypopigmentation. Though there are many side effects associated with Cryotherapy, it is found to be the most effective treatment for keloid scars.

How does an individual know which keloid scar removal technique is right for them?

Should an individual have a keloid scar that needs to be removed, the issue should be discussed with a dermatologist. An individual’s dermatologist will be able to determine which keloid scar removal technique is right for them based on skin tones, how large the keloid scar is, and what the effects are that the individual has the desire for.

Fractional Laser

/0 Comments/in /by

Understanding the Fractional Laser

As skin care technology increases, more treatments are becoming available to those with skin problems, and one such procedure is fractional laser treatment. This treatment, which utilises precision lasers to target very small areas of the skin, is used to address a number of skin ailments such as acne scars, uneven pigmentation, and facial wrinkles. Fractional laser treatment is becoming more common as a non-invasive option to the facelift and other cosmetic surgeries, which can take weeks to heal and carry danger of infection and complications. This treatment may not be the best option for everyone, however, as there are several side effects that are associated with the procedure. If you have considered fractional laser surgery as a way to get rid of acne scars, wrinkles, or other skin problems, you should first understand how the procedure works and whether you are a viable candidate for this type of laser surgery.

GET 40% OFF

Our Most Powerful Fractional Laser Treatment of choice for superior results. Claim Now For More Information. Sale Ends 14/06
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

*Save 40% off recommend treatment program of 3 sessions.

How Fractional Laser Treatment Works

Fractional laser treatment surgery works beneath the skin, where it affects both the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the outer layer of the skin that’s exposed to the environment, and the dermis is the underlying skin. Age spots and uneven pigmentation begin in the epidermis, where melanin gathers to protect the skin from UV rays, creating dark spots on face and other pigmentation issues. In contrast, the dermis is where the skin’s elastin and collagen are produced, which gives the skin its firmness and elasticity. However, as the skin ages, it loses collagen and becomes less elastic, which causes wrinkles, fine lines, and the sagging that people associate with aging.

During fractional laser treatment, the laser delivers precise and multiple beams into the skin, where it penetrates the epidermis. The cells in the treatment section are destroyed, which boosts cell turnover in the area and stimulates the growth of new collagen. In the case of acne scarring, the lasers work much in the same way to destroy the cells in scarred skin, which eventually reveals new growth underneath. Fractional laser treatment is considered safer than other wider-range laser treatments, as it can target small areas of the skin and leave unaffected areas unharmed.

 What to Expect During the Procedure

Once you are cleared for treatment by your skin care specialist or dermatologist, your treatment will take place at a clinic or in your doctor’s office, as this is considered an outpatient procedure. You should not wear any jewelry or cosmetics during treatment. A numbing cream is applied to the treatment area, which will reduce sensation caused by the lasers. After the cream takes effect, the doctor will apply a gliding gel to the treatment area in order to increase the accuracy of the fractional laser treatment.  Treatment can take anywhere from thirty to sixty minutes; after the treatment is completed, the gel will be washed away and you will be sent home to recover.

Fractional Laser Treatment Side Effects

There are a number of side effects associated with fractional laser treatment, and depending on your skin type, you may experience several of them. The most common side effects that occur with this procedure include redness, stinging, and soreness at the treatment area, as if it feels sunburned. After several days, peeling and flaking may occur as new skin is revealed; this is considered a normal occurrence, particularly if you had epidermal treatment. Some patients experience mild to moderate swelling that usually goes away on its own within 24-48 hours. If you experience any serious swelling or notice anything unusual about the treated area after your fractional laser treatment, you should contact your dermatologist immediately.

GET 40% OFF

Our Most Powerful Fractional Laser Treatment of choice for superior results. Claim Now For More Information. Sale Ends 14/06
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

*Save 40% off recommend treatment program of 3 sessions.