Liver Spots

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All you should know about Liver Spots

Contrary to what most people think, wrinkles are not the only sign that time has gone by. One of the telltale signs of ageing is skin spots, otherwise known as liver spots or solar lentigines. On the other hand, it is not a generalised symptom and not everybody shows skin spots. Let’s take a deeper look into this matter: what are these spots and why do we get them?

By definition, solar lentigines or liver spots are dark skin spots (usually either brownish or black). Although they vary in size and shape, they are typically present in individuals aged 50 or older. Nonetheless, younger people have been known to present these spots, too. This is particularly so if these young people spend much time under the sun.

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What are the Causes of Liver Spots?

The different layers of our skin tissue absorb sunrays throughout all of our lives. It is a well-known fact that some of these rays are harmful to our skin. So much so, that they cause certain type of damage. One of the ways our skin tissue is altered by the effects of sunrays is through hyper keratoses. This means that healthy skin becomes rougher and thicker –this is a natural response that occurs when the skin wants to protect itself from unwanted effects. Another common reaction is hyper pigmentation or extra colouring. This is visible through darkened spots and is one of the main reasons healthy skin forms liver spots.

Although certain skin types are more prone to developing these unwanted colours, the truth is that most skin types will develop a form of hyper pigmentation when exposed to sunlight and the longer you remain under the sun, the higher the chances of developing these spots.

Even when using protection, some people should avoid staying under the sun altogether. If you are light-skinned and fair-eyed, for instance; or if your skin becomes red when exposed to sunlight, you should take extra measures.

Cosmetic technology has provided us with different alternatives that can help to treat liver spots. However, the wisest tip would be to avoid getting them. So far, the best way to protect our skin from the harmful effects of sunrays is using the appropriate sunscreen or sun block. This advice however, is useful as long as we use the products the right way. Reapplying often and using the exact SPF is vital to preventing any unwanted colouring in our skin.

Are Liver Spots Dangerous?

Even if they look ominous, the truth is that liver spots do not mean any significant threat to your health. Some people may mistakenly confuse them with cancerous growths. They are not, however and will not require medical treatment.

Even so, consulting with a physician is always a good call; especially because many people may confuse these benign spots with other types of more harmful skin conditions. Here are useful tips on how to identify them:

Location: Liver spots usually appear on hands, face (particularly forehead, nose or hairline) shoulders or back.

Symptoms: none. They do not itch, sting or hurt in any way.

Cosmetic Treatment for Skin Spots

Despite being innocuous, liver spots are the cause of medical consultation mainly because of cosmetic reasons. Hundreds of patients wonder whether these spots can be concealed or taken care of. Skin doctors generally agree on one point concerning these spots: they cannot be removed. Nevertheless, patients are advised on several skin treatments that help to improve skin appearance.

Cosmetic treatments offered to treat lentigines focus on one aspect: reducing their colour or lightening them so that they are less noticeable. There are several treatments available on the market and some have been proved to be highly effective in reducing spots both in size and colour.

At Advanced Dermatology our recommend treatment for liver spots and other skin spots is our revolutionary Clariskin® PhotoRejuvenation treatment.

Dermapen

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Skin Treatment Options: Dermapen

The world of cosmetic treatments has seen itself flooded with different products, designed to address different skin issues and Dermapen is one of these alternatives.

People are so concerned with the way they look, that most cosmetic companies have developed all sorts of resources used to help people improve their appearance. Some skin conditions cannot be treated with skin lotions or creams only. This is why, thanks to the latest advances, technology has been used to create and design different types of motorised surgical instruments to deal with the most severe cases.

In recent years, these treatments have grown in popularity mainly because they provide a solution to extreme cases of acne, derma pigmentation or even scarring. Even when these treatments have proved to be effective, some people are still reluctant, mainly because they are suspicious of future infections or unwanted transmission of diseases.

As a result, an American company has developed a product that can help to deal with skin issues without the risks of affecting their health.

What is Dermapen?

By definition, Dermapen is a motorised surgical instrument operates with a disposable needle tip cartridge that contains 12micro-needles. This type of device has been designed to be used by a trained practitioner in a professional environment.

This micro-needling surgical instrument can be used to deal with different types of goals, such as lip wrinkles, improvement of overall skin tone, pore appearance, melasma and derma pigmentation. It is also used for facial wrinkles and acne scarring. Further uses include the textural improvement of neckline or chest.

The theory behind this type of technology is that by creating a small wound on the skin, it reacts by creating a new cell that is filled with collagen. The benefits depend on the depth of needle penetration; the deeper the treatment, the more effective. Many times, these types of treatments are used just to enhance product penetration or to ensure maximum absorption or skin cleansing. Skin depth can range from 0.25 to 2.5 mm. depending on the type of treatment required.

Since treatments are so varied and results so different, the treatment should always be carried out by a certified practitioner who is able to diagnose and treat accordingly. Although Dermapen is mostly used for facial areas, it can be successfully used in different parts of the body. For example, many beauticians use it to treat stretch marks on stomach or thigh areas.

Advantages of Using Dermapen

According to beauty specialists, the use of this disposable needling system has provided several advantages over other more common systems.

  • Reduces risks of cross-infection.
  • It increases speed and large areas can be covered in less time. Other manual systems take much longer.
  • Adaptable and comfortable. Practitioners can choose whether to deal with smaller or larger areas, according to what is needed.
  • Pain and discomfort is greatly reduced.
  • Low cost consumable.
  • Lighter in weight than most other devices.
  • Helps to prevent unnecessary laser treatments.
  • It provides adjustable needle depth.

Downsides of Using Dermapen

Even when many people have expressed their satisfaction with the treatment, there are some cases of unwanted side effects that have been reported by patients who used this sort of treatments.

  • Persistent skin redness: although some swelling and puffiness is expected, some patients have reported to suffer from extreme swelling and sever redness in the face.
  • Skin Blotches: Other people have reported blotches on their faces that do not seem to alleviate and that have required visiting skin specialists. In fact, some skin doctors recommend combining needling with platelet rich plasma treatments to prevent redness.

In all, Dermapen is a practical needling tool that should be used only by certified well-trained practitioners and under medical supervision.

VelaShape

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VelaShape: Overview, Reviews and Results

VelaShape is a non-invasive body contouring treatment. VelaShape can be used on the neck, the hips, thighs (inner and outer), buttocks, arms, flank, and abdomen. This technology combines bi-polar radio frequency energy, a vacuum, and infrared light. These three combined will heat the fat cells deeply, as well as the connective tissue and the underlying collagen dermal fibers. As treatments are given, there will be a reduction in cellulite as well as circumference. On average, one inch per treatment session is generally lost. VelaShape is an FDA approved treatment and is safe and effective for all colours of skin and skin types.

What is the VelaShape procedure like?

Before the procedure has started, the area that is to be treated will be cleansed. A hand piece will then be rolled over the area, which will begin to heat the tissue. This will cause the fat cells to melt, shrinking them in size. The skin will then be manipulated with the same device, which will create smoother skin that is firmer.

What are the results of VelaShape?

Gradual improvements will be seen in the appearance of the skin, with final results being seen 6 to 8 weeks after the final session is completed. The skin will appear to be tighter as well as smoother. Typically results last for 6 to 12 months.

Does VelaShape cause any pain?

Many report VelaShape as a comfortable treatment that feels similar to a deep tissue warming massage. Others report that it feels like an intense workout. The session will be tailored to fit what the patient finds to be comfortable.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects of VelaShape include some redness or mild bruising. Superficial burns may also be a side effect, but this is rare. Once the treatment is over, it is normal to have a warm sensation around the treatment area. Regular activities can be resumed after a session is over. Following the procedure, an increase in urine production is often seen. It is recommended that patients drink at least 2 liters of water per day, and possibly up to 4 liters.

What are the benefits of having VelaShape?

Having VelaShape done provides many great benefits. These include not only reducing cellulite and circumference but will also help with trapped fat reduction. This body contouring treatment is great for woman that want to get their bodies back into shape after having a baby. VelaShape may also be used before and after a liposuction treatment. In Men, this procedure will also relieve the muscles of aches and spasms.

How many sessions are needed of VelaShape?

A minimum of 6 sessions is generally needed to see the maximum results, however, some may see results within 4 sessions. The total number of treatments will be dependent on each patient, depending on what the goals are of the patient, as well as what the state of the body is currently in. Each session will last about 30 minutes.

Can VelaShape be combine with other treatments to accelerate the results?

VelaShape may be combined with other treatments to see faster results. This should be discussed with your skin specialist, however, others have successfully used fitness and diet programs while having the sessions completed, had skin tightening treatments done, body shaping treatments, and liposuction procedures.

Is there anyone that is not a good candidate for VelaShape?

Most people are good candidates for VelaShape. It is recommended that all health issues be shared with your skin specialist as certain illnesses and health conditions make a person ineligible for VelaShape.

 

Exilis

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Exilis is a skin tightening and body contouring treatment that is approved by the FDA. It is used to help in wrinkle reduction, smooth out skin, enhance collagen production, and tighten the skin. Ultrasonic waves are delivered with controlled heat to the tissues of the skin in this treatment. Deep layers of fat will be targeted, while the surface of the skin is cooled to help protect the dermal structures of the skin, which omits the risk for burning and blistering. Two heads are used on the device that will not only liquify the fat but also tighten the skin. Exilis can be used on a number of body parts, including the waist, arms, hips, thighs, love handles, face, neckline, jowls, breast, knees, buttocks, bra strap line, and the décolletage.

How many treatments of Exilis are needed for best results?

It is recommended that 4 to 6 treatments of Exilis be done to achieve maximum results. These treatments should be spaced apart 1 to 2 weeks. Results generally last about 6 months, with maintenance sessions needed every 4 to 6 months. Results can be seen after only a few treatments, but some may not see results until 2 to 3 months after the final treatment is performed.

Is there any downtime associated with this procedure?

There is not any downtime associated with Exilis. There may be some redness to the treated area, but this will dissipate in a few hours, but no bruising will take place. Makeup can be worn after the treatment is finished. If Exilis is done on the body, it is recommended that the patient be physically active. Water intake should be increased after treatment. A healthy lifestyle is especially recommended for those that have Exilis treatment done for the purpose of body contouring and fat reduction, as this will help to accelerate the body fat burned.

Clinical trials has shown that Exilis is safe and effective. It is safe for all skin tones.

What are the benefits to having Exilis?

The following benefits can be seen from using Exilis:

  • skin tightening
  • effective fat shedding from specific portions on the body
  • tones as well as contours body parts that are troublesome
  • minimal pain
  • almost no side effects
  • long lasting results
  • brief treatment session
  • non-invasive
  • immediate and noticeable results
  • no after care treatment

What does Exilis feel like?

Exilis is not painful. No topical creams or anesthetics are used. There is a warming sensation that is felt, however this can be adjusted so the patient can be comfortable. Each session will last 20 to 30 minutes.

Are there any precautions to take prior to treatment of Exilis?

Prior to having Exilis done, all makeup and jewelry will need to be removed from the patient. Depending on the area of treatment in times it is recommended to shave the area of treatment a day before.

Who are good candidates for having Exilis?

Those that make excellent candidates for this procedure include those with mild to moderate fat deposits on the body.

Is there anyone that should not have Exilis performed?

Exilis should not be performed on woman that are pregnant or lactating. Those that have a pacemaker are also not allowed to have this procedure done. Anyone that has metal implanted in the body and that have an active skin infection at the site where Exilis would be performed should not have this procedure done.

How much does Exilis cost?

The cost of an Exilist treatment varies from practitioner to practitioner. It also depends on the area of treatment and the amount of sessions recommended by your skin specialist. Generally, 4 to 6 sessions of Exilist can run between $800 and $1500. We strongly recommend speaking to your skin specialist before deciding on what treatment is best for you.

Micro Needling

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 Micro Needling Review: How does it work?

Micro needling is a non-invasive procedure that can be used to treat a variety of conditions on the skin. It has very little side effects, can be done very quickly, and is a great alternative to dermabrasion. Micro needling is also referred to as skin needling and can be used to treat acne, scars, wrinkles, dark spots, stretch marks, tighten sagging skin, uneven pigmentation, and other skin issues. This procedure is mainly performed on the face, but can also be done on the hands, neck, chest and back.

Micro needling can be done with the Dermastamp or the Dermaroller. It is well tolerated by many and will take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour to complete, depending on the area of treatment.

How is skin needling performed?

The skin specialist will first cleanse the face or area being treated, and then a cream will be applied to the skin where the skin will receive treatment. A numbing cream will then be applied to the skin, which will numb the area so not as much pain if felt. Depending on the skin specialist, intravenous anesthetic may also be given but this is done on very rare occasions. The needle roller will be placed on the skin and rolled over several times. This will create many puncture wounds on the skin. This will encourage the skin to produce new collagen. Once the needle roller has been rolled over the skin enough, a cream will be applied to soothe the area. In very rare occasions bandages may be used to cover the area for 24 hours or so.

After the treatment, some will experience mild swelling and redness that looks similar to a sunburn. This will subside in 24 to 48 hours. There could also be some pinpoint bleeding with some bruising. After the treatment, within a few weeks the skin will look radiant and smooth. Within a few months, the full effects of micro needling will show through.

What are the benefits of micro needling?

There are many benefits to using skin needling. It is suitable for all types of skin, even thin and sensitive skin types. It can also be used on ethnic or dark skin as it will reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. This procedure can easily be done in at your local skin clinic setting and will not require any instruments that are expensive. The epidermis will also not be damaged during this procedure, so more than one session can be done and is usually recommended for ultimate results. There is a short downtime associated with this procedure. In only a few days, the patient will be allowed to do normal activities. Skin needling may also reduce the pore size, reduce the oiliness of the skin, help to make acne breakouts minimal, and help medical grade skincare creams be more effective.

What are the side effects of micro needling?

The skin will remain red for a few days following the procedure. Within one week, most of the redness should be gone. It is common for the skin to feel very tight and sore. There may be some oozing and swelling while the skin recovers, and acne flare ups that are mild can be seen. Mila could be a side effect from micro needling, however, this is easily removed. In rare cases, there may be a skin infection with bacteria or a cold sore virus.

Is there anyone that should not have micro needling done?

Those that have the following skin conditions should not consider have micro needling done:

  • Psoriasis
  • Rosacea
  • Eczema
  • Poor healing
  • Blood clotting issues
  • Severe solar keratosis
  • Herpes
  • Skin inflammations
  • Moles or warts that are raised
  • Active skin infections
  • Chronic skin disorders
  • Sunburns, open cuts or other sores

Kybella

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Melt Away your Double Chin with Kybella Injections

Kybella is a treatment that is used to treat a double chin. This is a new procedure that does not involve any type of surgery. It is the latest FDA approved injectable that will help to not only reduce fat in the chin but also help to contour. Kybella is made from a deoxycholic acid that is synthetic. This is also naturally found in the body and will help break down the dietary fat. Once Kybella is injected into the chin, the fat cells are destroyed. Once the fat cells are destroyed, they will be unable to store any fat, resulting in a slimmer chin. Up to 50 injections will be given. The injections are spaced at least one month apart. Most people will see results with just two treatments, however, additional treatments may be needed depending on how much fat is present in the chin area. Results can be seen typically within weeks. One treatment will take between 15 to 20 minutes. Kybella was only produced to be injected into the chin. At this stage it has not been approved to treat other areas of your body, its generally effective only on small areas of fat deposits like a double chin. 

What are the side effects of Kybella?

Some side effects seen with Kybella include bruising, pain, numbness, swelling at the injection site, redness and areas of hardness where the treatment was performed. Serious side effects include trouble swallowing or a nerve injury that can cause facial muscle weakness or an uneven smile. Please note that this procedure should only be done by a trained health care professional, such as a dermatologist. It should not be injected into or near the marginal mandibular gland, lymph nodes, salivary gland, or the muscles. Injecting too close to these areas may result in tissue damage.

How soon are results seen?

Once the area has been injected, the fat will begin to dissolve in 10 to 15 minutes. Final results may not be seen for 4 weeks following the injection, as swelling may take 3 to 4 weeks to subside.

What is the recovery like?

After the procedure is done, there may be some tenderness and inflammation. This will typically subside in a day or two. Strenuous activities should be avoided for a few days to minimise bruising and swelling.

What is the cost of Kybella?

The price has not been determined yet for this treatment as it is relatively new. However, it is predicted for an 8ml treatment, the price range will be between $700 to $1000. Since it is a cosmetic procedure, it will not be covered by insurance plans.

Is there anyone who should not receive Kybella?

If you have an infection in the area where Kybella is injected, you should not receive the treatment. It is important to tell your doctor if you have had surgery on your face, neck or chin or plan to do so. Also let your doctor know if you have had any cosmetic treatments done on these areas, or if you suffer from any medical conditions in or around the neck area. It is important to tell your doctor if you have trouble swallowing or ever had any bleeding issues or if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. It is equally as important to let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding or plan to soon breastfeed your child. It is not known at this time if Kybella will effect a baby or the breast milk.

When discussing Kybella with your doctor, you should also tell them about any vitamins and herbal supplements that are taken, as well as any medications, both prescription and over the counter. Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking a medication to help the blood clot.

 

Red Light Therapy

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Red light therapy is a treatment that is used to treat acne, wrinkles, sun damaged skin, age spots, and rosacea. It can be used to treat the entire body for cases of eczema, neuropathy, muscle pain, nerve pain, joint issues, blood circulation, stiffness and more. There are two main kinds of red light therapy: light box therapy and targeted phototherapy. Light box therapy does not target a specific area of the body, while targeted phototherapy will treat specific areas of the body using an excimer laser. Red light therapy can be done at your skin specialist’s office or in the comfort of your own home. Salons will most generally offer red light therapy in tanning beds. This is a form of the light box therapy. Specific areas to be treated are generally done at a professionals office.

Red light therapy was discovered by NASA astronauts when they desired to grow plants in space. This type of therapy is used around the world in spas to help rejuvenate skin as well as in medical facilities to help heal cancer patients.

How does red light therapy work?

Red light therapy works by using an infrared light which will penetrate the skin to repair any damaged nerves and tissue under the skin. Energy will be delivered to the skin in bursts, which will make the skin heal from the inside out. None of the body’s tissues will be cut during this process. These wavelengths will be delivered between 630 to 660 nanometers. This damaged skin will be rejuvenated by energising the cells that help to boost collagen. Collagen is the protein found in the human body that essentially holds the body together and is found not only in the skin, but also the bones, muscles and tendons.

Red light therapy does take some time to see the effects. Daily treatments are often needed to see the desired results for the first few weeks of treatment, followed by 3 to 4 times per week after that. The skin will gradually be repaired over time. The results will be dependent on how damaged the skin is, how many treatments are used, what skin type a person has and the age of the patient receiving the treatment.

What are the benefits to using red light therapy?

There are many benefits to using red light therapy. To name a few, wrinkles can be reduced and the skin will be firmer. Acne scars can be treated using red light therapy. Redness and blemishes on the skin can be fought naturally using this kind of therapy.

Are there any risks with using red light therapy?

According to the TGA, there are not many side effects or risks associated with using red light therapy. However, it is recommended that those with photosensitivity use caution when using red light therapy. This treatment is not dangerous as it does not produce any wavelengths that are outside of the UV range. It is also equally important to discuss any medications and prescriptions that are being taken before beginning any red light therapy treatment with your skin specialist. Some of these medications can cause photosensitivity, which in turn will only damage the skin. Make mention of any vitamins as well that are used as this could also cause the body to be sensitive to any light.

Are at home red light therapy devices safe and effective to use?

At home red light therapy devices can be purchased over the counter. They can only treat small areas at a time, so they may not be the most effective. For best results with an at home red light therapy device, the person will need to sit still to be the most effective, often for longer periods of time.

Isolaz

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Isolaz Acne Treatment Review

Isolaz is an acne treatment that helps fight acne at the root of the problem. This skin treatment will not only cleanse the pores, but purify the skin from the inside out and replenish the skin. The treatment is also referred to as Laser Skin Treatment and a Photopneumatics Treatment. Isolaz can be used on males or females, any skin type and any age. This FDA cleared treatment is very safe to use as a reliable means of remove acne from the skin. It can be used to treat acne on the face, as well as the chest and back.

What are the benefits of using Isolaz?

There are many benefits from using Isolaz. The treatment will:

  • Help to improve the skin’s texture
  • Reduce appearance of pore size
  • Decrease the number of acne spots
  • Remove oil, dirt and debris from the skin
  • Quick treatment that typically only takes 15 to 30 minutes
  • No downtime. You can return to regular activities following a treatment session
  • The feeling of the treatment is compared to a warm massage.
  • Immediate results
  • No pre-treatment medications or topical anesthetics used
  • Reduction of redness of acne after procedure is performed

Are there any side effects to Isolaz?

Isolaz is a safe treatment that does not have any side effects. There may be some slight redness after the treatment is over, but this only lasts about an hour. The procedure will not cause sensitivity to light like other treatments do.

How does Isolaz work?

Before the treatment begins, the face will be sprayed with water. The tip of the Isolaz device will be placed on the skin that needs the treatment, and the appropriate settings will be set based on the skin condition, skin type and body part being treated. There will be a gentle pressure applied and a warming sensation. The vacuum tip will draw out any dirt, oil, and debris and a flash of light will be applied. The tip will then be moved to another section that needs treatment and the process will start again. After the entire area has been treated, Profusion technology will be used to apply a topical skin care product to the treatment area. The vacuum tip will stretch the skin out gently as the product is being applied to the skin. A series of 4 to 6 treatments are generally needed, but you can discuss this with your skin specialist to tailor a specific treatment for your skin. The first 2 or 3 treatments are typically done every week, and then the remaining sessions are scheduled 2 weeks apart. To keep the skin looking it’s best, it is recommended that follow up treatments be done. For those with severe acne, it is recommended that treatment be done every 2 to 3 months while those with mild acne may have the procedure performed every 6 months.

After the treatment, normal activities can be resumed. There is no need for special skin care products but we do recommend using a good daily skin care routine such as cleansing your face and applying a good moisturiser.

Is Isolaz right for me?

You may wish to do Isolaz if you have very oily skin, blackheads, or your skin seems dull and just needs a “pick-me up”. If your skin is not responding to other acne treatments, then Isolaz can be used. If you break out a lot, have a desire for clear, radiant skin, or suffer from some breakouts, this acne treatment should be considered. The treatment can be used on any type of acne. It has been successfully used to treat mild to moderate acne, including comedonal acne and pustular acne. It has also been used to treat acne vulgaris (mild to moderate inflammatory acne).

You should not have Isolaz done if you have used Isotretinoin in the last 6 months, are predisposed to keloid formation or have excessive scarring, have poor wound healing, or have cancer (including pre-cancerous lesions, malignant melanoma or recurrent non-melanoma skin cancer).

 

Oxybenzone

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Skincare Glossary: Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone is also known by trade names Milestab 9, Eusolex 4360, Escalol 567, and Kahscreen BZ-3. Oxybenzone is a benzophenone which means that is can be used to help to block UV rays from damaging photos and protect them from losing ink clarity. Benzophenones are also used in plastics to help with the same purpose. Being an organic compound and a solid that is white in color Oxybenzone is soluble in organic solutions.

Oxybenzone is most known for its use in sunscreen. It is able to absorb both short-wave UVA and UVB rays as an active ingredient in sunscreen. It is also used in hairspray, cosmetics and plastics for its ability to absorb ultraviolet light. Oxybenzone is also used as a photo stabilizer in nail polish. Oxybenzone is used as a photo-initiator and a photo-stabilizer. Synthetic resins require the use of oxybenzone as a photo-stabilizer. It protects color in photos over a wide span peaking at 350 nm. These resins can be used in plastics and create a long lasting color product.

Most oxybenzone is used by applying it topically to the skin. The skin then absorbs the lotion or solution. Once the skin has absorbed oxybenzone it is important to know that scientists have discovered that of the known UV filters oxybenzone is the least lipophilic. This means that it does not dissolve well once it is in the human body. Urine tests reveal that oxybenzone stays in the human system much longer than other substances. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention claim that around 97% of all Americans have some in there system because it takes so long to get rid of.

It is also known to contribute to coral bleaching and die off at the reefs. It is believed that 4,000 to 6,000 metric tons of sunscreen rinses off of beach goers every year. Oxybenzone is one of the four compounds that are blamed for the coral bleaching. Oxybenzone has a negative effect on zooxanthellae which is the component in algae that makes for its vibrant coloring. When coral is bleached it is no longer living.

A quarter of the people exposed to oxybenzone with photoallergic reactions had a negative reaction to the use of oxybenzone. The allergic reaction mimics eczema and lasts longer than your time in the sun. Treatments are avoidance and topical corticosteroids.

The Environmental Working Group has rated oxybenzone as an 8 on their 1 to 10 hazard scale. They list all of the products that contain oxybenzone and assign those products a safety rating.

Due to these findings, the use of oxybenzone is controversial and many think that it should be removed from the products that we use. The FDA approves the use of oxybenzone as long as it does not exceed 6% of the product and any product that has over 0.5% must have a label that states “contains Oxybenzone” in the European Union. Sweeden has banned the use of oxybenzone completely. Don’t mark oxybenzone as a do not use substance just yet. It is also one of the only agent known to work as effectively as it does against UV rays which are a cause for skin cancer. It was rumored as a hormone disruptor but the scientific proof does not substantiate this claim.

Popular products that contain oxybenzone are lipstick, moisturisers, lotions, hairspray, foundation, lip balm, and sunscreen. Popular brands that contain oxybenzone are L’Oreal Paris, Sally Hansen, Physicians Formula, Alba, All Terrain, Rituals, SolBar AVO, Panama Jack, and generic brands. It is important to check the labels of any products that you may be using to see if they contain oxybenzone. Carefully review the ingredients and know the side effects and allergies prior to using a product on yourself or a family member.

PicoWay

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PLEASE NOTE: Advanced Dermatology does not provide tattoo removal treatments any longer. This article is for education and information purposes only.

PicoWay is a state of the art laser treatment that was designed to remove tattoos, as well as pigmentation. PicoWay comes from a highly trusted name in the laser business, Syneron Candela. This unique treatment utilises the dual wavelengths (1064nm and 532nm) in one laser treatment. The 1064 nm will help to remove the black, green, purple, blue, and brown inks, while the 532nm will remove red, orange, and yellows. It was cleared by the FDA in 2014.

It is estimated that 38% of woman and men between the ages of 18 and 29 years old have one tattoo or more. Of these with tattoos, up to half of these people have regretted getting a tattoo. Out of this percentage, only 11% consider having the tattoo removed, with only 6% having tattoo removal done.

What are the advantages to using PicoWay?

There are many advantages to using PicoWay. It is the first and only dual laser system utilising the PicoWay technology. Besides using the dual wavelengths that were described above, this laser treatment will treat a wide range of tattoos. It will even treat recalcitrant tattoos, and tattoos of most colours. The laser has the highest peak power and can treat both dermal and epidermal pigmented lesions. This means the laser can penetrate deep into the skin. The pulses on the PicoWay laser are 40% shorter, meaning there is less risk of side effects. The energy will break up the tattoo ink or pigmentation in the skin so it can easily be eliminated from the body. There is also less discomfort with this laser treatment with fewer treatments needing to be done.

Can all tattoos be treated using this laser treatment?

Yes, all tattoos can be treated using Picoway. This includes those tattoos that were done professionally, on an amateur level, traumatic tattoos and recalcitrant tattoos (these tattoos have been known to not perform very well with a nanosecond laser treatment). This laser treatment can be performed on all skin types without causing unwanted side effects, such as discolouration of the skin. The surrounding skin will also not be effected during this procedure.

How many treatments will one need?

The number of treatments will depend on how large the tattoo is, what inks were used, and how deep the tattoo was inked into the skin. At least 86% of patients had a 50% tattoo clearance after only 3 treatments.

Why is PicoWay better than a traditional laser?

PicoWay lasers deliver energy onto the skin in a much faster manner than a traditional laser, in a trillionth of a second rather than a millionth of a second. This will make the tattoo removal process not only more effective, but there will also be less damage to the skin, such as blistering, scarring, and dyspigmentation. Less heat will also be generated, which results in fewer side effects and less pain.

What does PicoWay feel like? Will it hurt?

The PicoWay laser treatment has some mild to moderate pain associated with the treatment. Many have compared it to feeling similar to getting the tattoo done. The technology that was used to develop this laser treatment was designed to reduce the amount of pain that is felt during a treatment, as well as reduce any swelling that is associated with tattoo removal.

How else can the PicoWay treatment be used?

Besides using the PicoWay treatment for tattoo removal, the procedure can also be used to treat pigmentation in some persons. This will include sun spots and pigmented birthmarks. Do note that this laser treatment should never be used to remove any sort of mole.