Treatments For Freckles, Sunspots, Melasma 

Skin color is a manifestation of genetics and environmental factors. The cells that determine skin color are known as melanocytes. These cells are found throughout the upper layers of the skin and produce granules of melanin pigment. Melanin granules diffuse into the surrounding skin cells known as keratinocytes and protect the cells' DNA from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. Contrary to popular belief, a suntan is actually sun damage and does not provide protection from the sun.

What is hyperpigmentation?

Many factors can affect the normal function of the melanocyte and therefore cause a variety of pigmentation disorders. Normal, healthy skin is evenly colored and free of blemishes. This results from the synthesis of a normal amount of pigment from melanocytes and its transfer to the outer layers of the skin. Ultraviolet exposure, inflammation, hormonal changes, drugs, acne, skin diseases and a genetic predisposition can increase melanin production and cause dark pigmented patches to appear on the skin. This is called hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation can affect the skin color of people of all races. What are the different types of hyperpigmentation? Freckles are small brown spots that can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly seen on the face and arms and other sun exposed areas. Freckles are more common in fair skinned individuals as a result of sun exposure. Therefore, they can occur even in children. Freckles are most prominent in the summer but will fade in the winter as old skin cells are shed and replaced by new ones.

Sunspots, age spots, or 'liver' spots are a very common form of hyperpigmentation. They are basically superficial collections of melanin which accumulate in the top layer of the skin. Sunspots occur as a result of cumulative sun damage over many years. They appear as small, dark patches that are commonly seen on the back of the hands, legs and face or other areas that are exposed to the sun. In contrast to freckles, they persist for long periods of time and do not fade in the winter months. It is very important to distinguish the harmless solar sunspot from early melanoma. If the spot is new, contains more than one color or has irregular borders or if in doubt, consult a dermatologist.

Melasma is more commonly seen in women but about 10% of patients are men. It is more frequent in persons with brown or black skin or from Asia, the Middle East, India and South America. Melasma looks similar to age spots but tends to involve larger areas. The lesions can be well-defined or have irregular, so-called, geographic borders and typically appear on the central part of the face i.e. the forehead, nose, upper lip and chin. Melasma is precipitated by hormonal changes as seen in pregnancy, sun exposure and with the use of certain drugs such as oral contraceptives, anti-seizure and anti-malarial medications. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is usually a problem for individuals with darker skin.

It develops as a result of irritation or injury to the skin as seen with acne, psoriasis, eczema and trauma. The darkened areas on the skin are limited to the site of the inflammation and have more indistinct, feathered borders. In this condition, the pigment cells tend to deposit melanin in both the superficial and deeper layers of the skin. How is hyperpigmentation treated? The  successful treatment of hyperpigmentation  must include the daily use of a sunblock. Freckles, age spots, and other dark skin patches can become darker and more pronounced when skin is exposed to the sun. This happens because melanin absorbs the energy of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays in order to protect the skin from overexposure. This process darkens the areas that are already hyperpigmented. Therefore, it is essential to use an opaque sunblock every morning that contains titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide. Light in the visible spectrum can darken pigment. Even sunscreens with the highest SPF are not effective in blocking visible radiation. A single day of excess sun exposure can undo many months of treatment for pigment disorders.

Bleaches lighten and fade darkened skin patches by slowing the production of melanin. Prescription strength creams that lighten the skin contain hydroquinone. Skin bleaching can be a long and tedious process. Therefore, to achieve faster results, hydroquinone has been found to be more effective in combination with other agents. These products include alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic and mandelic acid, vitamin A derivatives such as retin-A and Tazorac and Vitamin C. Even alone, these agents can help to eradicate blotchy discoloration as well as exfoliate the discolored skin. Pigmented lesions can be treated by mechanical agents that exfoliate the skin such as microdermabrasion and/or erbium lasers that vaporize the skin. Exfoliation and vaporization remove superficial pigmented skin cells and also facilitate the penetration of bleaching agents. Finally, pulsed light treatments can effectively and precisely treat pigmented lesions. Light is selectively used to target the pigment without damaging the normal surrounding skin.

Hyperpigmentation Cream

If you've recently noticed you are getting dark or age spots, you may not be aware of how to rid your skin of them. Your skin may require a hyperpigmentation.   

Hyperpigmentation Treatments 

What are the best hyperpigmentation treatments? Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation can make you feel self-conscious about your skin. But there are treatments that can help fade hyperpigmentation fast.  

Skin Hyperpigmentation Treatments: Bleaching

If you have darkened areas on your skin as a result of sun-damage, injuries or just bad genes, skin hyperpigmentation treatment can effectively clear it into your desired complexion. The most common and frequently-tried treatments is bleaching

Author: Christine Helinski

Dr. Christine Helinski of Brilliant Aesthetics MedSpa is a board certified internist who specializes in cosmetic procedures including microdermabrasion in Maryland. Brilliant Aesthetics MedSpa is a comprehensive medispa offering many services - laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, MicroLaserPeels, photofacials, pulsed light therapy, BOTOX, Juvederm, sclerotherapy, laser vein treatments and Obagi skin care products. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 301-639-9262

Dr. Christine Helinski of Brilliant Aesthetics MedSpa is a board certified internist with a special interest in cosmetic dermatology. After completing medical school and a residency in internal medicine at the University of Maryland, Dr. Helinski worked in emergency room medicine and then joined Johns Hopkins Medical Systems for private practice. She also served as clinical instructor for the Johns Hopkins medical residency program. Dr. Helinski is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. She also earned master degrees from both the University of Maryland and the Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Helinski may be reached at 301-639-9262

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Technorati Tags: Freckles, Hyperpigmentation, Melanin, melasma, Sunspots, treatment for hyperpigmentation

There is no doubt that visiting a spa is one of the best ways to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body. Saratoga Springs, New York, features a number of reputable spas, where you can select from a wide range of skin care services to pamper your body as well as soul. Details about a couple of Saratoga Springs spas are mentioned in this article.

One of the most reputable Saratoga Springs spas is the Solutions in Skin Care, located at 81 Railroad Place. Solutions in Skin Care, as the name indicates, specializes in a large assortment of skin treatments to improve and preserve the overall skin health of its customers. Some of the skin care solutions offered here includes Personal prescription treatment, acne remedy, eye treatment, back exfoliating treatment, moisturizing facial treatment, Rs2 Rosacea treatment, anti free radical treatment, luminous 'c' and 'sea' treatment, Plantomer moisture treatment, Repachage four layer facial, photorejuvenation, LaStone facial treatment, microdermabrasion, four layer facial treatment, manual lymphatic drainage, and skinceuticals acid 'peel'. Apart from the skin care treatments, the spa also offers facial/body waxing and makeup services. Makeup services include teaching sessions and bridal makeup. To make an appointment at this Saratoga Springs spa, you should call 518-584-7090.

Saratoga Mineral Spa and Salon is another one of the most well known Saratoga Springs spas in the region. This full spa and salon offers a wide range of services, which include body treatments, massage therapy, mineral baths, facials, aromatherapy, makeup, nails, pedicures, hair, and waxing. Among the specialties here include Swedish massage, aromatherapy massage, deep tissue massage and intensive sports massage, reflexology massage, hot stone massage, couples massage, maple European facial, revitalizing anti-aging facial, sea escape stone facial and body therapy, Rosacea cooling facial, back cleansing facial, petite facial, microdermabrasion treatments, maple sugar body scrub, salt glow, black Baltic body mud wrap, rose mud wrap, seaweed/algae body masque, peppermint sea twist, champagne wrap, herbal rejuvenation body wrap, private mineral bath, and whirlpool mineral bath for two. Saratoga Mineral Spa and Salon is located at 48 Front Street, Ballston Spa, New York. The spa packages are priced between $75 and $375. Dial 518-885-7727 to make an appointment.

Next on the list of popular Saratoga Springs spas is the Esthetiques European Skin Care Clinic. The spa has an exhausting service list which includes Swedish massage, hot stone massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy massage, Therapeutic Herbal Massage, 'Moor Spa' Salt Scrub, 'Get Fresh' Fruit Scrub, Parafango Swollen-Leg Treatment, Volcanic Clay Body Mask, Herbal Black Sea Pink Salt Foot Scrub, Balinese Foot Scrub, Aromatherapy Hair and Scalp Treatment, Ubvatana Flower Foot Bath in a Copper Vessel, and Lymphatic Drainage. Esthetiques European Skin Care Clinic has two locations, 376 Broadway and 361 Broadway. The contact numbers are 518-587-3626 (376 Broadway) and 518-583-2400 (361 Broadway).

Non-Surgical Treatment Instantly Brightens

EyeQ is a non-surgical eye enhancement treatment that brightens refreshes and rejuvenates tired eyes in a single visit and it's available exclusively at The Skin Center Medical Spa with locations in Pittsburgh, PA, Columbus Ohio. Medical Spas offer laser hair removal, lipodissolve, photopneumatic therapy for acne and blemishes, Botox, Restylane, and more

Spa Tips for Soft Winter Skin

It can also be used to prevent acne and signs of aging. She suggests trying over-the-counter exfoliants like Dermalogica’s Gentle Cream Exfoliant. “That may be where you want to spend your money, is a good exfoliant,” 

Juva Skin Center's Laser Skin Treatments

Leading New York cosmetic center, Juva Skin and Laser Center, is now offering patients the benefit of the Pixel device, used for the treatment of acne scarring, sun damage and for laser wrinkle removal.

Good spa in Orlando, Florida

Featuring one of the most extensive menu of treatments in Central Florida, this spa is also the only resort spa in Orlando to have won the prestigious Mobil Four Star Award every year since its inception.  Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa disneyworld.disney.go.com - (407) 827-1100. Matthew Michael's Salon & Spa matthewmichaels.com - (407) 896-9892. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Orlando, Grande Lakes www.ritzcarlton.com - (407) 393-4200. 

De-Stressing in Saratoga Springs - Spas
By Richard Rspad

Find New York day spas at ResortSpaDestinations.com.

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Technorati Tags: melasma cure, Melasma Treatment, saratoga springs melasma treatment

Laser skin resurfacing is a type of cosmetic procedures. This technique is used to correct the skin problems such as scars, discoloration, wrinkles and pigmentation. Here is detailed information about this latest technique.

Every person, especially woman, dreams to have supple, clean and blemish-free skin. But, due to continuous exposure to harmful sunrays and pollution, our delicate facial skin may suffer from various problems such as wrinkles, pigmentation, scars or discoloration. Such skin problems can disgrace your personality and develop low self-esteem in individual. Therefore, you need to  get proper treatment for these skin problems . There are several treatment options of facial rejuvenation procedures such as chemical peels, Botox injections, face-lifts and dermabrasion. Laser skin resurfacing is the latest technique to correct these skin problems offering a new, perfect facial skin. You will find a remarkable improvement in your facial skin, which is free from wrinkles, blemishes and lines due to this specialized technique.

Who is right candidate for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Any healthy person who wants to get relief from skin problems is the right candidate for laser skin resurfacing. This procedure is suitable for those, who have wrinkles, birthmarks, minor or medium acne scars. This technique can also be applied to remove unwanted hair and tattoos. Depending on type of resurfacing, patient may require several treatment sessions. Person having lighter skin and who avoid sun exposure are considered as the best candidates for laser skin resurfacing. People with darker skin tone can experience pigment changes resulting from the treatment. Hence, this treatment is generally not recommended for people having dark skin.

Different types of Lasers

Several types of lasers are available for laser treatment. Depending upon skin type, suitable one should be selected for treatment. N-Lite is a wonderful treatment that does not cause any damage to skin. It doesn't require anesthesia and it has less recovery time. However, it is the least effective treatment to eliminate lines, wrinkles and spots. Erbium is another type of laser, which is effective for discoloration and mild to moderate wrinkles. It can cause complete elimination of fine lines and significant improvement in dynamic wrinkles. CO2 laser is the most invasive procedure that gives the best results for lines, wrinkles and discoloration by removing more skin layers. You can choose any type of laser that suits to your requirements and budget.

Skin rejuvenation with Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is conducted under local anesthesia in order to rejuvenate facial skin, remove shallow scars and fine lines, stimulate growth of new collagen and reduce wrinkles. Skin lasers offer younger looking skin by burning away outer layer of skin. It also acts on deeper layers of skin to stimulate growth of new collagen. Laser treatment can be applied for all over face or specific areas of face. With aging, there may be development of wrinkles and lines in facial skin. Other factors contributing to wrinkles and lines are diet, exposure to sun and smoking. Skin laser resurfacing technique can be used to remove birthmarks, acne scars, uneven skin pigmentation and fine lines.

Before you undergo this treatment, you need to find out skilled and experienced Cosmetic surgeon. He selects type of laser considering different factors like skin type, severity of skin problems and area to be corrected. At the time of procedure, eyes are protected using special goggles. During this procedure, laser light touches only a fraction of patient's skin. First of all, facial skin is washed and then, a numbing gel is applied to the skin. Then, surgeon applies water-soluble tint over numbing gel. It can help the surgeon to identify counter lines on facial skin. Skin to be rejuvenated is hit with numerous small laser spots. These tiny spots remove acne scars, sunspots, wrinkles, melasma, sun damaged skin and hyperpigmentation. Uneven coloring in facial skin can be abolished with laser resurfacing of skin. However, these changes require gradual and meticulous treatment. As application of laser can warm the facial skin, a special cooling device is used to prevent the skin from becoming too hot. Laser resurfacing technique can make the facial skin feel smoother and softer and appears more youthful. Because of fractionated nature of treatment, there is retention of some healthy skin cells, which aid healing of cells hit by laser.

If a small part of facial skin such as wrinkles around eyes or mouth is to be treated, then it will take about half an hour. If entire face is to be treated, then it may require about one and half hour. Older people usually require entire face resurfacing than younger ones. Since laser skin treatment is conducted under local anesthesia, you can return home within a short time after the treatment. Cosmetic surgeon usually recommends 3-5 resurfacing treatments over one or two week period.

Aftercare for Laser Skin Resurfacing

Following skin resurfacing, the body enhances blood supply into facial skin so that damaged skin gets healed earlier. After the procedure, patient may have pinkish facial skin for about 5-7 days. In case of treatment for wrinkles around eyes, patient may experience temporary swelling of eyelids. There may be some flaking of facial skin after this treatment. Applying large amount of moisturizer to treated are can hide the flaking. Besides moisturizer, people, who have undergone laser skin resurfacing, need to apply sunscreen twice a day in order to protect the skin. If you experience discomfort or swelling, then you may apply ice packs and take medications prescribed by the surgeon. If a bandage is applied after the procedure, it should be replaced after one or two days. After a week, when your bandage is removed, you should apply a thin layer of ointment. You need to take extreme care of your healing facial skin.

Possible complications and risks of Laser Skin Resurfacing

This procedure is quite safe and comfortable and it gives rise to very few complications. Some possible complications are skin burning, discoloration or scarring. In some rare cases, dormant viruses or infections may get triggered. Although effects of aging can be corrected using this technique, aging process can't be prevented or stopped. Discoloration, wrinkles and other imperfections may reappear after few years.

In today's highly competitive world, you need to approach with full confidence and impressive personality. Get rid of facial skin abnormalities using effective laser skin resurfacing technique and enjoy confident, cheerful life.

Fraxel Laser Treatment

Texas Fraxel laser treatment can take years from your skin, leaving you with a healthy fresh new look. The highest quality of care and state-of-the-art procedures are available to Texas residents at The Center for Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology.

SURGICAL LASER TREATMENT

This acne scar treatment option improves overall skin tone and lustre and appears to help superficial mild acne scars. It also works best if you get a series of at least 6 peels, having one every 1-2 weeks. 

Laser Treatments for Younger Looking Skin

It also shrinks the pores and is the first and only laser approved for treatment of the discoloration of melasma. It can be used throughout the body. Although there is some redness, most go right back to work. 

Expectations from Fraxel Laser Treatment

Fraxel Laser is the only FDA-approved laser treatment that can be used for fine lines, blotchy pigmentation, melasma, wrinkles, and acne scars. Fraxel laser treatment offers the distinctive benefits of quick healing and recovery. 

Fraxel Treatment for Facial Acne Scar and Melasma

A Revolutionary Advanced Laser Treatment For Facial Acne Scar and Melasma.The physician will determine the best course of treatment based on the desired results and scheduling availability. The physician will also discuss the areas that are appropriate for treatment, what to expect from the procedure and the most likely outcome.

By Reshma Jirage Published: 6/10/2008

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Technorati Tags: best laser for melasma, cosmetic laser, laser facial, laser skin, laser skin treatments, Laser treatment

Your facial features are a very important part of your everyday appearance, so it is very important to keep your face fresh and youthful looking. Year by year, millions of patients complain of various skin conditions including, acne scars, sun spots, melasma, wrinkles and lines or constant red complexion. Treatment methods such as microdermabrasion, chemical peels and laser resurfacing have been used to improve these conditions. A new and effective technique called intense pulsed light (IPL), is non-ablative and treats any of the mentioned skin conditions. This procedure is also called photorejuvenation.

Using IPL photo facial treatmnet does not damage the surface of the skin, and uses high intensity pulses of broadband light different from the narrow band light of lasers. The deeper parts of the skin are touched as the superficial aspect of the skin remains untouched. There are different types of IPL available on the market used to treat different conditions such as spider veins, melasma, age spots etc. The main advantage of IPL fotofacial is that it does damage the skin surface, unlike dermabrasion and laser resurfacing. This allows for almost no recovery time after undergoing a procedure that takes between 30-45 minutes. You will be able to do the treatment even during your lunch break and will not experience any significant side effects or pain. IPL also allows a larger area to be treated, something that laser treatment does not do.

You may need several treatments performed after knowing that little damage is done to the skin. This procedure is ideal for someone who cannot afford to have any down time, but will need to understand that additional treatments will be needed. Generally they are performed 3 weeks apart from each other, allowing your face time to see how far one or two treatments will take you. After IPL fotofacial, your face should improve in texture and tone, with decreased redness, more even color and youthful appearance. The results depend on how the skin is cared for after the procedure, but can last up to a year with good sun protection.

The cost for IPL varies with each person, as the size of the area targeted is different with each person as well as the severity of the problem. Generally the procedure is more expensive than peels but less expensive than lasers. Typically, the cost ranges from 300-600 dollars per treatment.

Undergoing any type of procedure, surgical or non surgical is risky, as each person is different reacting to certain treatments. IPL fotofacial is proven to be a very safe and effective method for treating any facial skin condition that you might not feel comfortable with. You should see your local skin care physician to see if IPL would best fit your needs, and react well according to your needs. Results may be more gradual with some, so it is important to be patient after completing the treatment. The best scenario is improvement. It is very difficult to achieve 100% perfection. IPL fotofacial offers the best non-ablative method to helping your skin.

Advanced Technology Laser Centre

Sun damage treatment is also provided by Advanced Technology Laser Centre. Some of the specials include teeth whitening (in just one hour), IPL Photofacial, laser hair removal, ultrasonic facial and Fraxel restore laser

Full Face IPL Treatment

Here's what I look like the day after my full-face IPL Treatment with no sunblock or BB cream. you can see that the freckles and excess pigmentation are starting to darken.

 IPL ( Photo facial) Treatments

The average cost for a FotoFacial/IPL is $350 - $600 each treatment, depending on the body part. However here a Vonnee's can recieve a photo facial for only $135.00 each facial treatment, or $125.00 each for a series of 4 or more!

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DermaNetwork.org is a leading provider of IPL fotofacial information and resources. Find a local skin care professional today.

Technorati Tags: Ipl Photo Facial Treatment, ipl photo facial, photo facial treatment, photorejuvenation

Normal pigmentation of the skin develops in response to exposure to UV radiation or sunlight. When irregular and abnormal spots appear on the skin, they are called melasma. And while melasma literally means dark skin (in Greek), and it is best known as the "mask of pregnancy" for it is more frequent among pregnant women, you dont have to be pregnant (or even a woman!) to develop melasma. And if you think youre silently suffering alone, think again. An estimated six million women throughout the U.S. are affected by this distressing, albeit cosmetic concern.

The dark patches occur because the same melanocyte cells that provide pigmentation to protect us from sunlight increase in number and produce higher amounts of melanin, causing the skin to turn tan or brown in irregular patterns.

Melasma is most often exemplified by chunks of uneven dark skin on the face. These off colored spots tend to appear on the lips, forehead, or cheeks. Some causes of melasma could include genetics, oral contraceptives, hormonal changes, and excessive sun exposure but dermatologists can't completely pinpoint the reason why they show up. And although it is a very typical cosmetic skin affliction, and there is no universally accepted reason why they show up, it is considered very hard to treat.

Melasma Treatment

The most common treatments for melasma include chemical peels, laser surgery, and bleaching skin agents. Bleaching agents and sunscreens can be capable but they are not a guarantee to reduce the spots.

These melasma treatments can minimize the spots but curing is something drastically different. Sometimes if melasma sufferers are fortunate, the patches dull with time but if not, aggressive treatments need to be imposed in order to return the skin to normal.

Sun exposure is the biggest culprit of melasma so sometimes it is just as easy as covering up in the midday sun.

Dark Spots

The melanin in the skin absorbs the sun's UV rays in order to screen the skin from excessive radiation exposure. Covering yourself with high SPF factors found in sunscreens can help obstruct the rays from infiltrating the skin. All successful melasma treatments use sunscreens since even after the spots are erased, sufferers need to apply protection in order to prevent re-occurrence.

Skin Bleaching products

Skin Bleaching products should only be used under stringent medical supervision. Skin bleaching can take a few months to show signs of distinct difference. In order to get the desired results, one needs to be aggressive in the application of the bleaching agent.

Bleaching agents work best on individuals with lighter skin tone. Doctor's need to give the authorization for any skin bleaching treatment due to the fact it can deteriorate the melanin production and could stimulate a cancerous reaction.

Chemical peels

Hardcore cases of melasma can demand chemical peels or even plastic surgery methods. Chemical peels can be attractive since they get rid of the upper layer of the skin and trigger the replacement of the burned cells with new cells. Healing time can be substantially less than the 6 months to a year needed for topical methods. But chemical peels can char the skin which actually markedly adds redness and infections and can yield an undesired thicker skin texture.

Melasma Laser Removal

Laser resurfacing can expunge the spots but this is a major medical treatment. Increased redness and scabbing are possible side effects of this treatment.

These are reasonable options, but why not pick a treatment that won't sear your skin or impede melanin production?

Topical Treatment Option

Fortunately there is now a breakthrough topical treatment option that can hasten the quick reduction of melasma.

The new skin care option combines three novel ingredients that act synergistically to resolve melasma faster than bleaching agents. They are

1. Helix Aspersa Mller Glycoconjugates which dissolve the upper layer of dead cells with each application, activate and orchestrate the regenerative processes of the skin and have antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties,
2. Rumex occidentalis a plant extract which is capable of inhibiting the production of melanin by blocking the enzyme tyrosinase and
3. A human growth factor peptide, derived from the melanocyte-stimulating-hormone which blocks melanin synthesis.

The synergy of their combined effects makes it a unique treatment for treating the brown spots of melasma and much faster than what can be achieved with the use of topical bleaching agents alone. Different melasma bleaching agents are outdated treatments for the dark spots associated with melasma and a wide range of other hyperpigmentation skin afflictions and the more common brown sun spots and age spots.

The first ingredient we mentioned is a unique complex compound that deeply infuses the skin and activates skin renewal. It is loaded with

1. biological enhancers of inter and intra cellular communication
2. enzymes that dissolve damaged tissues and stimulate their regeneration using the amino acids they free up
3. antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and moderate inflammation. The ingredient already yields a complete and balanced acne scar removal skin care solution.

The same product made with this biological substance with the addition of a natural melanin inhibitor and a biomimetic peptide that blocks melanin biosynthesis helps to remove melasma and other dark skin pigmentation disorders.

While this method of melasma removal may take more time than chemical peels or laser surgery, it yields no hazardous side effects. It is not a skin bleaching agent that can trigger a cancerous reaction. The glycoconjugates react naturally with the cells in your body in order to renew the skin and restore its natural defense mechanisms.

Damaged cells are flushed out with diligent application of this natural skin care ingredient twice a day. Melasma marks are diminished and ultimately removed by the natural occurring enzymes found in the glycoconjugates, while the other two active ingredients block melanin biosynthesis and inhibit melanin production. The compounded effect of the trio hastens melasma treatment.

Pregnancy Advice

I got the "Pregnancy Mask" and "Splotches" on my face when I was pregnant. (FYI: Not everyone will get it the Pregnancy Mask.) I was in the sun a few times and POP..out they all came. I wish I had stayed OUT of the sun.

Melasma Removal

Many doctors & dermatologist in the Encino area are now using various treatments to get rid of hyperpigmentation problems such as Melasma & Pregnancy Mask. One treatment recently approved by the FDA to remove stubborn Melasma.

Pregnancy and Acne - Are They Related?

Treatments: How to Get Rid of Acne : Pre-Acne Treatment Facial Mask: How to Get Rid of Pimples; Mirpuria on Natural Acne Remedies & Treatments: How to Get Rid of Acne : Pre-Acne Treatment Facial Mask: How to Get Rid of Pimples

Technorati Tags: bleaching skin agents, chemical peels, how to get rid of pregnancy mask, laser surgery

By eating healthy, seeking regular medical treatment and being more consciously aware of their health, people of today are leading longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. Unfortunately though no matter how well we age, our skin does not maintain its youthful appearance.

Evidence of sun damage, unwanted brown spots, unsightly acne scars and lines and wrinkles associated with aging continue to plague us. Until recently, treatment options have been limited. Available treatments have been painful, had considerable side effects, required significant downtime and numerous follow-ups or have had little or no effect.

A revolutionary advanced laser treatment, Fraxel, has changed all of that. This treatment method is safe and effective and is not limited to use on the face. The greatest element of this unique procedure is that it completely improves the quality and appearance of your skin with minimal downtime or side effects. Fraxel Laser Treatment accomplishes this by affecting only a fraction of your skin at a time.

Thousands of tiny but deep columns of treatments in the skin, known as microthermal treatment zones penetrate deep into the dermis and eliminate old epidermal pigmented cells. These microthermal zones target specific portions of tissue and damaged cells without affecting the surrounding tissue.

This type of fragmentary, or fractional treatment provokes the natural healing process of the skin by accelerating the production of collagen and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells. Because a large surface area is not affected, healing time is significantly reduced. The treatment has been compared to the restoration of a photo or a painting, bit by bit, and pixel-by-pixel, the damaged area is transformed, just as the skin is revitalized.

Until Fraxel there were two types of laser treatments available. Ablative laser resurfacing is a process by which the upper layers of aged or damaged skin are vaporized by applying a controlled laser beam. This process has shown to be effective, though it is an invasive procedure, has significant side effects and requires a lengthy period of time for healing.

Non-ablative laser procedures heat the deeper layers of the skin without removing the top layer so side effects and down time are minimal, but several frequent treatments are required and often produce little or no results. The Fraxel treatment combines the effectiveness of the ablative treatments with the minimal downtime of non-ablative treatments.

To obtain maximum results, clinical research has shown that, on average the most effective treatment plan consists of 3-5 treatments over a 2-4 week period of time. The length of time between treatments may differ for a number of reasons. The physician will determine the best course of treatment based on the desired results and scheduling availability. The physician will also discuss the areas that are appropriate for treatment, what to expect from the procedure and the most likely outcome.

The Fraxel laser treatment procedure can be performed right in the doctor's office and many are able to return to their normal activities the same day. In most cases the actual treatment, depending on the size of the area being treated will take about 30 minutes.

Typically only the use of a topical anesthetic is required for pain management and will be applied approximately an hour before the treatment. Prior to the procedure, the area being treated will be thoroughly cleansed. A blue, water soluble tint, called Opti-Guide Blue and certified by the FDA is then applied to highlight the contours of the face and increase the contrast of the folds of the skin so that the areas to be treated are more precisely and accurately targeted by the laser.

Patients do not usually describe the treatment as especially uncomfortable or painful. Most describe the treatment as a prickling sensation. When the treatment is over the blue tint and anesthetic ointment are immediately washed off. After the treatment a mild sunburn sensation will be felt for about an hour and then in essence no displeasure.

The skin will appear to have a pinkish tone for anywhere from 4-7 days. Any swelling that occurs should be minimal and will resolve within 3 days. Since the outer layer of skin is not affected shaving and make up application can resume soon after treatment.

The results of Fraxel are immediate and progressive. Within 24 hours of treatment, new epidermal skin will develop. The process of skin repair then begins. This process includes bronzing; a bronze appearance of the skin, which depending on the level of treatment may be present anywhere from 3 to 14 days.

Flaking then occurs. This is a natural exfoliating of the skin, similar to the flaking of sunburn. Using a moisturizer daily will help reduce the flaky appearance. It is especially important to avoid direct sun exposure during the healing process and for at least three months after treatment. It is recommended that a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 be applied daily.

For added protection a wide brimmed hat should be worn when outdoors in the direct sunlight. The body will continue to heal itself; the damaged tissue will be replaced with collagen, elastin, and new healthy skin cells. Optimal improvement is usually most visible within 2 to 3 months.

Fraxel has been indicated to significantly reduce fine lines and wrinkles, rejuvenate the skin, reduce age spots and blotchy skin coloring, Improve fine to moderate lines found around the eyes, lips and forehead and reduce hyper pigmentation and improve melasma. It can also be used on other areas of the body such as the neck, chest, and hands to rejuvenate sun-damaged skin, reduce age spots and reduce stretch marks.

Very recently the FDA has approved the use of Fraxel to treat facial scars. Facial scarring has been very difficult, if not impossible to improve until now. Many adults have had to suffer from unsightly scars caused by acne that has been long gone. Several types of scars are caused by acne. A surgical scar is scar tissue that forms and leaves a mark in response to skin healing after a surgical incision and Fraxel offers the only comprehensive approach to repairing these epidermal abnormalities through the unique process of fractional resurfacing.

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Content by www.ultimateimagetampabay.com">Tampa Fraxel

Fraxel laser to remove your acne

After my first Fraxel treatment in November, 2008, I can’t honestly say I was looking forward to the next one. It’s painful! And for someone with a low pain threshold like me, the pain was almost unbearable.

Fraxel Laser Treatment?

Have you or anyone you know had this procedure done? Were you/they satisfied with the outcome? What do you know about it and how much does it?

New treatment for stretch marks

"The Fraxel treatment shows promise but it still is not going to completely remove it. It is going to improve it maybe about 30 percent, 40 percent," says LSU Health Sciences Center plastic surgeon Dr. Kamran Khoobehi.

Fraxel Treatment Day

Earlier today, I had went to my skin clinic, Dermlaze that I’ve blogged about before to do my very first Fraxel laser treatment. As you know, I want to undo what my old dermatologist did to my face.

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Introduction to Laser Skin Resurfacing

Maintaining beauty and a youthful appearance date back several thousand years to the ancient Egyptian. However, the advances in technology have never before awarded such a choice of modalities. Non-surgical skin rejuvenation, laser skin resurfacing, wrinkle treatment, fillers, face lift, and skin tightening are common approaches for improving the look of your skin. Particularly, the introduction of a multitude of skin resurfacing devices has caused a lot of confusion amongst consumers.

Among these options, laser skin resurfacing is the most effective non or semi-invasive surgical approach to achieve drastic results.
First of all you must know that every new resurfacing laser or device is measured against the industry's most powerful machine for the past 40 years, the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. It was invented in 1964 and has been the most widely used laser in medicine.

In the area of dermatology, its use has been predominantly for facial resurfacing. It often achieves desired results in a single treatment, works on fine and intermediate lines and acne scars, maximally tightens the skin and delivers results that last a number of years. Its drawback is a long, 10-14 day social downtime, making it less desirable for any working person.

To overcome this handicap and minimize healing time, many devices that do not injure the uppermost layers of the skin (non-ablative) have recently been developed by the aesthetic industry. The single most important advance was the creation of fractional technology. Leaving small islands of normal skin behind, the skin regenerates much faster than with the traditional full ablation of skin.
You will learn about the current industry recognized ablative and non-ablative strategies that rejuvenate your skin and about the benefits and downsides of each of these techniques.

Fractionated Ablative lasers

Carbon Dioxide Laser - CO2 Laser

As an ablative laser, it vaporizes the tissue and is able to eradicate fine and intermediate lines, smoothes overall skin texture and acne scars, eradicates uneven pigmentation as well as tightens the skin. It lets you appear about 10 years younger and often replaces the need for a face lift unless skin sagging is severe. Preparation and postoperative care most closely resembles a full fletched surgical procedure, however, CO2 laser resurfacing can be performed under local anesthesia. The price you pay for the results is one to two weeks of social downtime while the skin reepithelializes. In addition, the resurfaced skin may appear pinkish for several months thereafter.

Fractional CO2 Laser

Since the beginning of 2007, refined systems with partial degrees of ablation that leave small islands of normal skin from which the skin can regenerate much faster, have revolutionized the resurfacing market. Amongst these, the combination of DeepFx and ActiveFx, manufactured by the leader in CO2 technology (Lumenis) give results that most closely compare to the traditional laser resurfacing. This new technology offers faster healing times with still excellent results. In the meantime, a number of laser companies have now developed their own permutations of a fractionated CO2 laser and names include Fraxel re:Pair, Slim MIxto/SX, Exelo 2, Mosaic.

Erbium:YAG Lasers

The traditional erbium laser has produced results that were absolutely comparable to the CO2 laser yet it fell out of favor because of significant post operative bleeding. As with the fractional method developed for the CO2 laser, today's erbium laser treatments are almost exclusively fractionated and may also be called pixelated. Names that you may read about are Pearl, Pixel, ProFractional and Starlux 2940. However, with the exception of the Pearl, these do not deliver results that mirror the original.

While downtime is typically limited to 1-4 days, the downfall of most of the fractionated erbium technology is the very superficial nature of the resurfacing results, being excellent at improving sun damage, and skin texture, but will target only the finest lines. They are considered more like an aggressive peel. Several treatments are often necessary to achieve such results. These fractionated lasers do not significantly contribute to skin tightening, removal of wrinkles, let alone acne scars.

Non Ablative Fractional Lasers

Protecting the epidermis, the upper most layer of our skin, and thereby minimizing social downtime, non-ablative lasers deliver energy in the lower layers of skin, ideally only causing swelling which is socially much more tolerable than oozing. Amongst the non-ablative lasers, FRAXEL is the most marketed. Other brands include Affirm, StarLux-Lux, Mosaic.
Using a wave length lower than that of a CO2 laser, these lasers drive energy into the skin, stimulating collagen production and thereby tightening skin.

Results after a single treatment are minimal and it can easily take 4-8 treatments to observe an effect. While its effects on wrinkles and lines after 4-8 treatments is fairly close to the results of a single CO2 laser treatment, it does not seem to deliver on scars as well. In addition, the Fraxel has been FDA approved for the treatment of melasma, also known as the mask of pregnancy, which shows as symmetric pigmentation on the face as a result of sun exposure with increased estrogen levels.

Non-Laser Fractionated Resurfacing Devices

Plasma and radiofrequency devices belong to this category. Because of the more convincing results, plasma technology will be discussed here. The plasma device is not based on laser principle. Plasma is pushed into the skin to induce partial ablation of the epidermis and renewal of collagen beneath the surface of the skin.

Treatments can be delivered in 1-2 aggressive sessions, results mimicking nearly those of fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing. When energy levels are minimized to allow for as a little as a few-hour lasting redness, several treatments will be needed for an effect. With the latter technique however, results tend to be much less dramatic. Having gained FDA approval in the second half of 2007, the technology is fairly new and long term results are not known yet.

In sum, many exciting technologies are available nowadays. The general rule of little downtime little results still applies. Non-ablative technology seldom achieves noticeable results in a single treatment and the overall outcome even after several treatments is often below expectations. Ablative devices appear to deliver best, require only a small number of treatments results and social downtime can effectively be lowered by the uses of fractional technology. Ultimately, your goals, your ability to tolerate social downtime and your wallet will steer you and your treating physician to a resurfacing plan that is tailored to you.

Treatment	Results	Social downtime	# of Treatments	Lasting Results	Average Cost
CO2 Laser		5-14 days	1	10 Days	$3000
ActiveFX		3-5 days	1-2	10 Days	$3700
Fractional Lasers		1-6days	4-8	Unknown	$5000
TCA Peel		5-7 days	1	2 Years	$500
Glycolic Peel		None	6-8	1 Year	$700
Microdermabrasion		None	6-8	1 Year	$1000

By: Dr. Franziska Ringpfeil MD.

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Dr. Franziska Ringpfeil is the medical director of Ringpfeil Advanced Dermatology - www.ringpfeildermatology.com. Ringpfeil Advanced Dermatology provides premium general dermatology, cosmetic dermatology www.ringpfeildermatology.com/cosmetic_dermatology.php , dermatologic surgery, and laser surgery to the Philadelphia, Main Line, and the Delaware Valley area. The original copy of this article - www.ringpfeildermatology.com/cosmetic-dermatology/skin-resurfacing.php

Guide To Laser Skin Resurfacing

Before you considered the skin of whitening again with laser, I recommended that you inform yourselves initially as for the way in which the real process will.

Types of Laser Skin Treatment Available

Skin Resurfacing. Laser skin treatment can effectively remove the top layer of skin, much like a chemical peel. The result is an underlying layer that is smoother and free of shallow scarring, fine lines and sun damage.

Elimination of the acne scars

If you remove the scars and the skin layers are back, this would dermis back to health. Laser skin resurfacing is also an option. It combines powerful tools such as CO2 and YAG laser to remove layers of skin scarring.

Laser Skin Resurfacing can help ease the effects

Laser skin resurfacing is a cosmetic surgery procedure that can help ease the effects of sun damage, aging, and acne on facial skin. Laser skin resurfacing works by removing the outer layers of skin where the problems are located.

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