What is Melasma & how to treat it

Melasma is often referred to as "the mask of pregnancy" because it can be brought on by hormone changes including pregnancy, birth control or any hormonal changes and is often worsened by sun damage. Melasma can also be caused by medications or certain cosmetic treatments. Melasma generally occurs when estrogen and/or progesterone stimulate pigmentation hormones, causing dark brown or grey, irregular sized patches on the face. Melasma is most common in dark skin types although it can occur in light skin types as well. Genetic predisposition may make one more susceptible to melasma, and thyroid dysfunction may also increase susceptibility. Since our medical spa is in Florida we see a lot of Melasma due to the excessive sun use and clients who have darker skin types that are of Meditteranean or Latin skin types. Melasma can be very difficult to treat and the results rely heavily on patient compliance. We have done a lot of research over the past 9 years at Winter Park Laser to find the best treatments for Melasma and hyperpigmentation and we want to share them. #1 The Mini-Melanage or full Melanage Chemical Peel: The Melanage Skin Lightening System is a supercial peel designed to improve the texture and appearance of hyperpigmented skin which involves a medicated masque and an at-home regimen. After 1 to 3 peels Dark spots will lighten and skin texture and tone will improve. #2 Skin Lightening Treatment products such as Hydroquinone which will help to suppress the underlying pigmentation from worsening. #3 Limited Sun Exposure: Sun can make Melasma worst so the more one stays away from sun by wearing a full broad spectrum spf 30 everyday and wearing large sunglasses and large hats to protect your skin. For more information on treating Melasma in Orlando go to www.winterparklaser.com

How to Get the Best & Safest Botox Cosmetic Treatments

The Medical Spa industry is still fairly new (about 20-25 years old) and continuously grows with new laws and FDA supervision of treatments. However laws still vary and their are still many medical spas, and physicians that abuse the system in order to save money. I bring this up because while the prices of cosmetic treatments have gone down due to the economy there are still those that want to save even more by looking for the "cheapest" and easiest deal. One of the biggest treatments that has become of topic lately is Botox Cosmetic. Botox Cosmetic is an amazing treatment that has become so popular because it's easy, affordable, and it works! However, Federal regulators have warned more than 350 medical practices that Botox they may have received from a Canadian supplier is unapproved and could be counterfeit or unsafe. So I wanted to give a few tips to finding a good, legitimate, and safe medical spa or physician's office to get Botox Cosmetic treatments. Here are the top 3 Red Flags for unsafe Botox Injections 1.) If the price is too good to be true-it probably is! Why: Botox generally runs $9-$13 per unit in the Central Florida area, so if you see it for $5-$8 per unit this could be a generic form of Botox-not what you want! 2.) The location is not supervised by a physician or they only do it once a month (such as your local salon or nail spa). Why: You want to go somewhere that specializes in Botox injections such as a medical spa or Doctor's office that does it on a daily basis and is Board Certified and supervised by a Doctor. 3.) If you do not see the bottle of Botox Cosmetic (by Allergan) that they are using to inject you. Why: The only FDA approved brand of Botox is Botox Cosmetic by Allergan & you can ask to see the bottle-there should be a hologram on it as well that says Allergan. General tips: Do your research-ask who performs the treatment and if they are certified & how much experience they have. If you walk in and feel uncomfortable or the nothing is explained to you prior to the treatment then leave. Read online reviews or ask your friends for referrals! For more information on Botox Cosmetic in Orlando go to www.winterparklaser.com or call (407) 601-1185.