The benefit of exfoliation

In our Orlando Medical Spa-Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Center, I must use the word "exfoliation" fifty times a day to clients because it is my favorite word & activity!!  Exfoliation can change everything in a woman or man's skin including texture, pore size, acne, pigmentation, and dullness.  Unfortunately, many people never exfoliate their skin, or do not do it correctly, which is sad because they are many the boat on it's effectiveness.  While, laser skin resurfacing and aesthetic injectables are so amazing in my opinion exfoliation is still necessary to enhance these procedures and improve skin texture.
Exfoliation is essential because at any age dead skin cells start to pile up on the skin which cause dull uneven skin tone & texture even preventing many skincare products penetrating properly.  Skin exfoliation should not only be done on the face but the body as well and at least on a weekly basis.  Exfoliation is the removal of the oldest dead skin cells that cling to the skin's outermost surface, or epidermis.
Exfoliation is easy with new medical grade skincare products that contain glycolics, exfoliating beads, or with medical grade chemical peels and dermaplaning.
Here are the Top Methods of Exfoliation:
Chemical Peel Exfoliation uses various enzymes, alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) or betahydroxy acids (BHAS) loosen the glue-like substance that holds the cells together, allowing them to slough away. Facial chemical peels are a form of chemical exfoliation. Chemical peels can be mild or stronger levels of exfoliation.
Dermaplaning is another new and amazing exfoliating treatment that provides an alternative to microdermabrasion and is a good choice for anyone with extremely sensitive skin. The dermaplaning treatment is performed by an experienced aesthetician who uses a modified blade to gently exfoliate the outer layer of dead skin cells. A noticeable improvement is immediate with smoother texture and fresh skin appearance. Hair returns softly and will not become coarser because of the treatment. Even products penetrate the skin better following this treatment and a chemical peel can even be performed directly after for deeper penetration.
Medical Grade Exfoliation Skincare products are those you purchase in a physician's office that you use at home once a week.  Typically they have various glycolic, or other AHA/BHA's in them to slough off dead skin.  Retinol is always a must product for constant exfoliation.
For more information on the benefits of exfoliation go to http://www.winterparklaser.com

Frequently Asked Questions on Chemical Peels

Chemical peels have been around since Egyptian times and have always been one of the most recommended treatments for anti-aging and skincare treatments by medical spas, dermatologists, and plastic surgeons.  However, even though chemical peels are a widely know named in aesthetics there are still a lot of myths, and assumptions about chemical peels that aren't always facts.  After running a medical spa-Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Center in Orlnado for 9 years chemical peels are still a go to treatment that give effective results and are still the best treatment for exfoliation.
Here are some frequently asked Questions on Chemical Peels:
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a combination of acids used to remove layers of dead and damage skin to reveal new, softer, fresh looking skin.
Do all chemical peels create severe downtime and peeling?
No, there are varying degrees of chemical peels including mild, medium, and strong peels.  This depends on the acid or combination of acids used, the strengths (percentages of each acid) and the length of time the peel is left on the skin.  Light peels are good for beginning peels and typically have no peeling involved.  The medium peels usually involve light flaking for 2-3 days.  Only strong peels such as TCA (trichloracetic acid) require 3-7 days of peeling.
At what age can one have a chemical peel?
Chemical peels can be performed at any age and are especially useful for teens with acne.
Do Chemical Peels thin your skin?
No, chemical peels stimulate collagen and elastyn so they actually plump the skin reducing wrinkles. They only remove layers of dead skin that need to be exfoliated.
For more information on Frequently asked questions on chemical peels go to http://www.winterparklaser.com

Fall Skincare Tips for Glowing Skin

While you change your wardrobe and foot wear with the seasons it is important to remember to change your skin-care routine and products with the seasons as well.  Your skin adapts with the season changes and your skin-care products should follow suit.  I am a lead consultant at an Orlando Medical Spa-Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging so part of my job is to recommend the best products and when you should you use them.
Here are my top Fall Skincare Tips for Glowing Skin
#1 Exfoliate! 
Over the summer you accumulated a lot of superficial sun damage and pigmentation therefore it is important to exfoliate your skin in order to reduce pigment as well as break down dead skin cell build up, clean out your pores, and tighten your pores.  The #1 way to exfoliate is with a chemical peel.  Chemical peels can come in light, medium, and strong peels and range between light flaking to days of peeling. In this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, which makes it  eventually peel off revealing fresh skin. The new skin is tighter, less porous, brighter and smoother.  If you can't make it to your local medical spa for a chemical peel, then an at home scrub or product with Alpha Hydroxy Acid or Beta Hydroxy Acid will help as well.
#2 Still Wear a SPF in your Moisturizer everyday!
Even though you may not be at the beach in the Fall or it might even start snowing you are still exposed to sun.  When you walk to your car, drive your car, rake the leaves you are still accumulating sun exposure and damage.  It is important to stick to a moisturizer with a minimum spf 30 full broad spectrum UVA/UVB.
#3 Switch your moisturizer to a heavier daytime moisturizer or add a night-time moisturizer.
During the summer your skin tends to be more oily and a lighter moisturizer is necessary.  When the seasons change your skin typically becomes dryer which means to keep that sweet summer glow you need more hydration.  This is when you should switch to a thicker daytime moisturizer with SPF or add a nighttime moisturizer such as Skinmedica's Dermal Repair.
For more information on Fall Skincare Tips for glowing skin go to http://www.winterparklaser.com

How To Cure Your "Tired Looking Eyes"

glytone eye peel Are people always asking you "why do you look so tired", "were you up late" or do you look in the mirror and constantly see dark circles under your eyes that worsen with age. If you do, you are not alone. "Dark under eye-circles", hollows, & bags are common concerns for men and women and we hear them all the time in consultations at our Orlando Medical Spa-Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Center. Well, the good news is that we can give you advice on how to cure your "tired Looking Eyes" to make them looking rested & brighter again! Cure #1: Dermal Filler Belotero Balance-the dermal filler of choice to fill in tear troughs (the shallow area under the eyes) & eliminate dark circles. Belotero works by replacing lost volume to the contours of the trough, thereby eliminating the shadow that's creating the darkness in the first place. Typically this only takes one syringe of Belotero and is painless as the area can be topically numbed & lidocaine is added to the syringe. This will instantly make you look years younger & brighten up your eyes. The results last approximately 1 year. Cure #2: Eye-Lift Chemical Peels: There are now mild chemical peels created specifically for around the eyes to treat wrinkles and dark circles. Our favorite is the EnerPeel for eyes from Glytone which is a series of 4 20 minute peels (1 every 2-3 weeks). This chemical peel should only be applied by a medical aesthetician. This peel is a combination of TCA & lactic acids to give a Significant increase in skin firmness around eyes and lips, Decreasefine lines, wrinkles and coarse crow's feet around eyes and lips & Decrease dark circles. Cure #3: Laser Eye-Lift: Laser Skin Resurfacing can be extremely effective in 1 treatment with combo-ablative laser resurfacing. Fractional ablative wrinkle treatment from Palomar uses beams of laser light that penetrates skin to just the right depth and with just the right level of heat to evoke a dramatic healing response that promotes collagen production, diminishing the appearance of fine lines. So here you have 3 ways to cure "tired looking eyes" and look 10 years younger without surgery. For more information on under eye treatments go to www.winterparklaser.com

Let's face it-we've all had those rough nights that result in dark circles under our eyes the next morning, but for some people this is a constant issue that a "good night of sleep" just won't cure. In our Orlando Medical Spa-Winter Park Laser, dark under-eye circles & bags are a constant complaint. So here are our top treatments to help eliminate or reduce dark under-eye circles, wrinkles & bags. #1 Belotero Balance Dermal Filler injected into the tear-trough area Why? Belotero is a hyaluronic acid filler that is already hydrated-which means that we don't have to "under-fill" the tear trough area to see the result, it also allows you to go much higher in the dermal tissue. Belotero costs around $475-$525 per syringe for a 1 ML pre-filled syringe. We numb the area topically but here is also lidocaine mixed into every syringe for a comfortable procedure. The tear-trough area is sensitive to slight bruising and swelling may occur but overall there is little down-time. The results typically last around a year or 10-14 months on average. The result of Belotero in the tear-trough area can give clients a more youthful look, with less hollowness, dark circles & wrinkles in the eye area also making them look more rested. #2 EnerPeel for Eyes by Glytone-Series of 4 Chemical Peels just around the eyes & eye lid Why? This peel is especially designed for the eye area & combines Lactic acid (great for pigment issues) with TCA (tri-chloracetic acid) great for exfoliation and stimulating collagen. The results are a significant increase in skin firmness around eyes, Decrease in fine lines, wrinkles and coarse crow's feet around eyes, & a Decrease in dark circles. For more information on top treatments to combat dark under-eye circles contact Winter Park Laser located at 1155 N Kentucky Ave Winter Park FL 32789 at www.winterparklaser.com or call (407) 601-1185.

Top 3 Ways to Look Younger Fast

After running a medical spa for 8 years-Winter Park Laser& Anti-Aging Center in Orlando FL the questions asked often is what is the quickest way to look younger? I also hear "I have a reunion in a week to a few weeks, what can I do quickly to look younger?" So here are my Top 3 ways to look younger fast! #1 Light Chemical Peels with Dermaplaning Why? The Dermaplaning uses a special blade to remove dead skin cells & peach fuzz-instantly making your skin look brighter and it allows the light peel to penetrate deeper, giving you a better result faster. Chemical peels come in 3 strenths. Light peels have little downtime and give great results using a cocktail of ultra-resurfacing ingredients such as lactic, glycolic, mandelic, or salicylic acids to exfoliate dead surface skin cells, leaving skin firmer, tighter and healthier with a great glow to your skin. #2 IPL (intense pulsed light) photofacials Why? A lot of people focus on wrinkles but uneven skin tone and excess pigmentation can make a person look a lot older than just wrinkles. IPL photo-facials are a great easy way with no downtime to erase sun damage and redness while tightening pores. Intense pulsed light treatments use the MaxG hand-piece to deliver energy to target and destroy vascular and pigmented lesions associated withveins, Rosacea, sun damage, and age spots from face, chest, hands, legs, and arms. #3 A "Liquid Face-lift" using Cosmetic Dermal Fillers such as Radiesse, or Juvederm. Why? When you need an instant fix, dermal fillers can pull up sagging jowles & fill in hollow cheeks making any one look 5-10 years younger instantly! The injectables used are normally Juvederm, Perlane, Restylane or Radiesse. The only possible side effect is slight temporary swelling for 24-48 hours and a small risk of swelling but one could go back to work immediately unlike a surgical face-lift with weeks of recovery. For more information on the top 3 ways to look younger fast go to www.winterparklaser.com or call (407) 601-1185. Winter Park Laser is located at 1155 N Kentucky Ave Winter Park FL 32789.

Why You Shouldn't Be Intimidated By Chemical Peels

In our Medical Spa-Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Center we see many clients who have never done cosmetic treatments before. I am often asked what is the first treatment I recommend- and it is normally chemical peels or chemical peels combined with laser treatments because they can do so many benefits for the skin. However, a lot of times when I use the words "chemical peel" clients get uneasy and I have often been asked-"Will I look like Samantha from Sex and the City when she couldn't go out for weeks and looked like raw skin". The answer is NO! People are often uneducated about the types of chemical peels and levels as there are light, medium and strong peels and varying strengths within each of those. There are different types of chemical peels to address acne, wrinkles, scars, sun damage, Melasma, fine lines, pore size and texture. Here are some of the most common types of peels: Types of chemical peels Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). AHAs are a group of mild organic acids most often derived from fruit, sugar cane and milk. AHA peels promote increased epidermal sloughing and are best for clients who want to improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars and other dark marks. The most common AHAs are glycolic, lactic, tartaric and malic acids. In addition, there are many hybrid AHAs that have emerged in the esthetic marketplace. These acids exfoliate dead skin cells to reveal a fresher, brighter, younger-looking complexion. Often called a “lunchtime” peel," AHAs are popular because they cause only minimal irritation and require no downtime. Beta hydroxy acid (BHA). BHA (also known as salicylic acid) treats the same skin conditions as AHAs; however, it penetrates the epidermis more deeply than AHA peels. Salicylic acid is found in wintergreen leaves and birch bark, and it has been used for decades to treat conditions, such as acne, warts and psoriasis. BHA peels are considered anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. These peels work well with sensitive, oily and acne-prone skin. It is important to note that because salicylic acid has properties similar to aspirin, it should not be used on clients with aspirin allergies. Jessner’s. Stronger than BHAs, the Jessner’s peel is also good for treating oily skin, acne and fine lines. Still considered a light peel (unless multiple coats are applied, in which case it is a deep peel), Jessner’s often combines salicylic acid, resorcinol and lactic acid in an ethanol solution--depending on the manufacturer. This peel removes dead skin throughout a period of six to 10 days. This treatment works especially well for clients with pigment irregularities, including melasma. Trichloroacetic acid.TCA is a standard agent in medium-level chemicals peels. As TCA is a deeper peel than Jessner’s, it must be performed under a physician’s supervision unless the peel is less than 10% TCA. This peel works to coagulate skin protein in order to treat skin imperfections, discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles. This peel needs to be used with caution when treating darker skin tones, because there is a risk of the peel causing hyperpigmentation. These are just a few types of chemical peels-there are hundreds of blends and combinations to meet your needs. Find an experienced medical aesthetician and ask for a free consultation. For more information on chemical peels and why to not be intimidated go to www.winterparklaser.com

The 3 Top Ways to Remove Sun Damage

Sun Damage Removal with Intense Pulsed Light One of the top issues that are clients come into our Orlando Medical Spa-Winter Park Laser for is sun damage skin including age spots, uneven skin tone, hyper-pigmentation and poor skin texture. Perhaps, it's because our medical spa is in Orlando Florida that we our clients have so much damage but I also think it's a generational issue as more baby boomers are seeing the effects of using baby oil in the 70's and more sun damage emerges with age. Here are the Top 3 Ways to Remove Sun Damage that we use in our Orlando Medical Spa: #1: IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photo-Facials: Intense pulsed light treatments deliver energy to target and destroy vascular and pigmented lesions associated sun damage, and age spots from face, chest, hands, legs, and arms. During the procedure, the entire treatment area is scanned with an IPL handpiece and treated with multiple passes and customized settings. A noticeable change occurs within 1 treatment, however a series of 3-5 is normally necessary for the best results. The formation of new collagen results in an increase in the elasticity and overall appearance of your skin. Pigmented lesions come to the surface and slough off. Red and blue vessels typically disappear. Sun damage is repaired. The skin simply looks younger, feels tighter and pores appear smaller. #2: Vi Peel from Kalil (chemical Peels): The Vi Peel is safe for all skin types and uses Vitamin C, Phenol (for numbing), Salicylic acid, TCA, Tretinoic Acid (Retin-A) to remove the top layers of sun damaged skin and reveal new fresh skin with a more even skin tone and tighter pores. #3 Pharmaceutical Grade Skin-Care Especially Pigment Lightening Serums such as Hydroquinone: Here is one of our favorites from Glytone http://www.glytone-usa.com/products/learn-more-about-glytone-products/details/category/skin-type/product/clarifying-gel-rx/beauty.html Clarifying Gel, Rx Clarifying Gel, Rx A nighttime gel formulated with 4% Hydroquinone helps to lighten dark patches on the skin For more information on how to remove sun damage contact our Orlando medical spa at www.winterparklaser.com or call (4o7) 601-1185.

November Medical Spa Specials

“BUY ONE, GET ONE LASER HAIR REMOVAL PACKAGE SPECIAL” lhr back of girl Purchase any Large Area Laser Hair Removal Package, and get a Second Small Area Package FREE!! *All packages include 6 treatments and are for original full price only. Not to be used with any other coupons or offers. Large Areas: Lower Legs, Full Legs, Full Arms, Full Face, Extended or Brazilian Bikini, Full Back, Full Chest, or Full Abdomen Small Areas: Underarms, Upper Lip, Chin, Side-burns, Hair Line, Sideburns, Stomach Strip, Neck, Hands, or Feet. SAVE UP to $699! “Holiday Make-Over Package” IPL b a half face INCLUDES TWO IPL PHOTO-FACIALS & One Medium Chemical Peel (includes Jessner or TCA Orange Peel) Total: $550 SAVE $150 Remove excess pigmentation, sun spots, Rosacea, broken capillaries, tighten pores, erase wrinkles & plump up fine lines! Go to www.winterparklaser.com for more information. image holiday kit IMAGE Holiday Kit- Great Holiday Gift! Products include The MAX Facial Cleanser Vital C Hydrating Anti-aging Serum Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 30 Vital C Hydrating Repair Creme Bonus Products: Plumping lip gloss & bronzer Get Your Holiday Liquid Face-lift juvederm before after Buy One Syringe of Juvederm Ultra or Ultra PLUS & Get 50% OFF the 2nd Syringe (Save $275) All Offers Expires: November 30, 2012

How to Look Fabulous Before The Holidays without Surgery

Medical Spas are a huge industry for one reason: People want to look their best without surgery. Most people do not have the money or the down time to incur a cosmetic surgical procedure. This is why Botox cosmetic has become the #1 cosmetic procedure in America because it takes 20 minutes, has no down time and makes you look 5-15 years younger in 2 weeks! The Holidays are only 3 weeks away (Thanksgiving) and Christmas & Chanukah are close behind it. So what are the best procedures to make you look younger and fabulous in a time crunch? I'm going to list the top 4 from our Orlando Medical Spa: Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Center. #1: Chemical Peels: This is the oldest and still one of the best cosmetic treatments to date to help your skin look better with in weeks. There are light and medium chemical peels that require only a few days of flaking with big pay offs. This involves a chemical solution being applied by a licensed aesthetician. This chemical will exfoliate and break down the dead skin cell layers that have piled up on your skin over time and reveal new fresh skin-diminishing brown spots, tightening pores, evening out skin tone, diminishing fine lines, wrinkles & giving skin a healthy glow instead of dullness. #2: Botox Cosmetic: If you haven't done Botox yet; you might be the only one (haha). Once you do it once you will be hooked-why? Because it is easy and gives you a huge bang for your buck. The procedure uses tiny insulin needles so it is virtually painless, only leaves swelling for about 2 hours but does take 2 weeks to take full effect so if you want results by Thanksgiving you need to start soon. BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the brows in people 18 to 65 years of age for 3-4 months on average. It works by blocking nerve impulses to the injected muscles. This reduces muscle activity that causes moderate to severe lines to form between the brows. #3: Dermal Fillers AKA Liquid Facelift: We love Dermal Fillers such as Juvederm XC at our Medical Spa-they can literally make someone look 10 years younger instantly! The dermal filler is used to replace volume in areas such as the cheeks, lips and around the mouth-also lifting the cheeks & therefore tightening some skin. JUVÉDERM® XC is the smooth gel filler (hyaluronic acid) that our PA-C uses to instantly smooth away wrinkles around your mouth and nose. With just one treatment, you’ll get smooth and natural-looking results that last up to a year. #4: IPL Photo-Facial: My personal favorite treatment takes 20 minutes for a full face, has little discomfort and only leaves slight redness for a couple of hours. Give it 2 weeks for end result and it will at least 30-40% of sun spots and redness or broken capillaries in 1 treatment!Palomar® Intense pulsed light treatments use the MaxG hand-piece to deliver energy to target and destroy vascular and pigmented lesions associated withveins, Rosacea, sun damage, and age spots from face, chest, hands, legs, and arms. During the procedure, the entire treatment area is scanned with an IPL handpiece and treated with multiple passes and customized settings. For more information go to www.winterparklaser.com

Why Exfoliation is Necessary for Healthy Skin

Exfoliation is extremely vital to the overall look and health of the skin on the face and body. However, many people do it incorrectly, do it too often, or don't exfoliate enough. Exfoliation is beneficial because it removes those cells that are clinging on, revealing the fresher, younger skin cells below. Exfoliation is necessary because as you age dead skin cells start to pile up on the skin causing dull uneven looking skin and preventing products from being able to properly penetrate into the skin giving it the necessary benefits. Exfoliation should only be done weekly and not everyday. Exfoliation is the removal of the oldest dead skin cells that cling to the skin's outermost surface, or epidermis. There are many different types of exfoliation, including chemical peels, manual with scrubs and dermaplaning. Chemical Exfoliation uses enzymes, alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) or betahydroxy acids (BHAS) loosen the glue-like substance that holds the cells together, allowing them to slough away. Facial peels are a form of chemical exfoliation. Chemical peels can be mild or stronger levels of exfoliation. Dermaplaning is an exfoliating treatment that provides an alternative to microdermabrasion and is a good choice for anyone with extremely sensitive skin. The dermaplaning treatment is performed by an experienced aesthetician who uses a modified blade to gently exfoliate the outer layer of dead skin cells. A noticeable improvement is immediate with smoother texture and fresh skin appearance. Hair returns softly and will not become coarser because of the treatment. Even products penetrate the skin better following this treatment and a chemical peel can even be performed directly after for deeper penetration. However you choose to exfoliate always consult with a professional, and remember if you have Rosacea or sensitive skin stay away from harsh scrubs or constant exfoliation.

Why Chemical Peels are Safe for All Skin Types

After running a medical spa for 8 years I often suggest chemical peels in combination with all laser treatments and by themselves because they can help with almost every skin issue client's have, including acne, dull skin, large pores, wrinkles, and black-heads. However, almost 50% of the response I get is "I have really sensitive skin, so I don't think I can have a chemical peel. This is a false statement that many people think would be an obvious truth. Unfortunately, the term "chemical peel" has scared many people away, when in fact those same people could greatly benefit from one type of chemical peel. There are light, medium and strong strength chemical peels ranging from no down-time to severe peeling for days. However, there are even chemical peels for Rosacea red skin such as Mandelic peels. While a chemical peel can cause redness immediately following the treatment, it can go away in as little as a few hours with a light peel. It is very rare for someone to not be able to receive a chemical peel, it is simply a matter of a well trained esthetician finding the right chemical peel for your skin type and concerns. If someone has very sensitive skin, redness and flaking can occur for a couple of days but skin will be clear, and glowing after a few days. Patients often say that their skin has never looked so radiant or flawless after the peel. Peels will not only help rid of acne scars, fine lines and sun damage, they can also help stimulate collagen growth. Dermaplaning is also a great option for deep exfoliation and uses no chemicals just a modified blade that blades away the top layer of dead skin. This leaves behind no redness. Find a reputable medical spa in your area that can give you a complimentary consultation. Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Center has been treating clients for 8 years in Orlando Fl.

Clearing Up Confusion on Chemical Peels

While Chemical peels are the oldest cosmetic treatment around, they are also shrouded with the most confusion. We have been offering advanced medical grade chemical peels at our medical spa for 8 years and without fail the most questions and concerns come with chemical peels-even more so than laser treatments. Even with the advances in laser technology combination therapy with chemical peels can still play a vital role in results, so this information should clear up some of the confusion about common concerns.
Concern #1: The term Chemical peel sounds intimidating & scary.

The term 'Chemical' makes many people think of it as an un-natural process. Actually chemical peels are naturally derived with AHA's such as lactic acid comes from milk, mandelic comes from almonds and so on. It features good things like naturally occurring fruit acids and enzymes to prompt your skin to increase its cellular turnover. This means that the collagen production, which slows as we age, is sped back up and with the increase in collagen production, the top layer of your skin cells will gradually "peel" off.
Concern #2: Chemical peels might be painful.

Most chemical peels have mild tingling sensations that do not last longer than a few minutes and are quickly cooled down with cold water or a peel neutralizer. Many advanced stronger chemical peels such as the VI Peel even have numbing agents built into the peel. Most peels are over in 25-45 minutes and leave very little discomfort.
Concern #3: Will I look scary after the peel and can I go in public?

There are 3 types of chemical peels-mild, medium & strong. Mild peels leave your skin refreshed with very little down-time except for some flaking for 24-48 hours. Medium peels don't start peeling for 48 hours and mild peeling can occur for 2-3 days. However all of the peeling can be controlled with the correct post-procedure products.

Chemical peels should be performed monthly as part of your skin care routine. They are an easy way to improve the texture of your skin, and to slow down the aging process.

What You Need to Know Before You go to a Medical Spa

At our medical spa we do a complimentary consultation for every new client and we look thoroughly over our client's medical history, however not every spa will do this so here are some tips on being informed and ready for your medical spa treatments which can tend to be stronger than traditional "day spa" treatments. These tips will keep you safe.

You might be wondering what the tangible benefits of having professional treatments are and why they are worth the investment especially with so many over the counter treatments available.. For those who don’t suffer from severe or chronic (repetitive) skin conditions, home care is one option and I encourage maintaining a home-care regimen even if you go to the spa. Although even if you have good skin occasional chemical peels will keep your cell turn over going & give you that consistent glow. Professional treatments can aid in accelerating the anti-aging process for more rapid results. Generally speaking, estheticians treat the epidermis (outermost layer of skin), while doctors, Nurses or Physician Assistant's can treat down to the dermis level (skin layer under the epidermis). Thus, a good esthetician will tell you when to seek out a medical spa for certain skin conditions, such as cystic acne. Para-medical esthetician's are also licensed to go deeper into the dermis under physician supervision and work with medical grade skin-care only.

An esthetician should always perform a skin analysis, examining your skin under a large magnifying glass -we offer Visia skin complexion analyses as well. If you are not asked to fill out what is known as a medical history form or a consent form, walk out. This form is critical to the consultation process, which should be performed for every new client. Also important-you should always receive a detailed post-care instruction sheet. Estheticians often use medical-grade ingredients and it’s important that they are aware of a client’s medications, allergies, and home care before treatment. These are known as contraindications and are important in determining whether you are a good candidate for a particular treatment. If you are allergic to milk and receive a peel containing even the smallest amount of lactic acid, you may experience severe side effects. Moreover, pregnant women should never have a chemical peel as peels penetrate down to the cellular level. It’s similar to avoiding certain foods during pregnancy. Intake forms vary by spa and cannot cover absolutely everything so it is important to ask questions, and that the consultant/esthetician is asking you additional questions and educating your on the treatment.

A great medical spa will provide you with pre-treatment and post-treatment instructions and will call you after your treatment to check on your progress. They also have to have doctors, PAs, or nurses on staff to answer questions or write prescriptions when necessary.

Exfoliation is fundamental to healthy skin care and requisite to maintaining a youthful complexion - it is often the focus of spa treatments. As a medical spa we find that chemical peels are great combination therapy and enhance the results of all laser treatments including IPL photo-rejuvenation, and fractional laser resurfacing. This is because once the dead skin cell layer is removed the laser can penetrate better, and the cell turn-over is accelerated.

Chemical exfoliation penetrates deeper into skin than micro-dermabrasion and exfoliates via high concentrations of AHA/BHA acids. The acids loosen the bonds between skin cells, allowing them to shed quicker than they normally would. Medical spas can use higher concentrations of acids than day spas. While peels can provide rapid results, it’s very important that the esthetician determine what strength is best to use. While peels do cause a tingling sensation, it should be neutralized before the tingling turns into a burning sensation. Everyone has a different tolerance for peels and that tolerance tends to grow with every use. If you are new to a spa or new to chemical peels you should always start with lighter peels and work your skin tolerance up to higher grade peels. It is also important that the correct type of chemical peel is performed for your skin type. If you have dark skin, always ask what possible side effects there are for the peel being performed and if it is safe for dark skin.

SPF should always be applied at the end of any medical spa chemical peel, facial or laser treatment on the face, chest or body. This is especially important post-treatment as chemical peels and laser treatments increase photo-sensitivity to the treated area. Remember, peels work at the cellular level and are still working long after you’ve left the spa.

Lastly, I have previously stated that many people have a tendency to over-exfoliate, which is detrimental to skin health. Often, clients see impressive results from a peel or microdermabrasion and think that more is better. There have been many times that I’ve kindly discouraged a client who wants microdermabrasion every week! Unfortunately, there are spas that will perform treatments as often as requested. Chemical peels, and laser treatments should always be spread out 2-4 weeks apart depending on the treatment, weekly is too often.

Important tip: Melasma in olive skin types should not be treated with IPL (intense pulsed light) this can make the Melasma worse-we have corrected to many of these mistakes from other medical spas.
In conclusion when deciding on the best medical spa for you, do your research, look at how long the spa has been in business, read online reviews, read their website, ask questions in your consultation, make sure the technician is licensed and appropriate to perform the treatment for you.

Tip: Don't base your decision on price-it is better to pay a little bit more for a great treatment, then to have to pay to correct an inexpensive treatment that damaged your skin-this can cost ten times more in the long run.

Chemical Peels can rejuvenate the Skin

Chemical Peels can Rejuvenate the Skin

Starting in Egyptian times, chemical peels were the first form of non-surgical cosmetic treatments used to slow down the aging process and rejuvenate tired, dull skin and wrinkles. A chemical peel is a process involving various chemical agents being applied to the skin which causes isolated intentional injury that is superficial to the top layers of the skin. This is called exfoliation and the top layers of dead cells then slough off to reveal a new more youthful layer of fresh skin. Chemical peels are great rejuvenation and anti-aging because as you age the cell turnover slows down. When dead skin cells start to pile up on the skint hey can cause the skin to look dull, crepey, dry, and uneven pigmentation.

Unfortunately the media often depicts chemical peels in movies and TV as scary, red tomato faces with weeks of downtime, but that is not the case. There are light (superficial), medium and strong depth chemical Peels and they differ in how deep they penetrate the skin layers. The deeper the penetration, the more extensive the rejuvenation and recovery time. It is always a good idea to start with light peels first to prepare the skin and then ease into stronger peels. Chemical Peels are a great way to rejuvenate and maintain skin after acne treatments or any type of laser skin resurfacing treatments.

Here are a few examples of various chemical peels from Glytone or IMAGE Skin care that we use at our Medical Spa under Physician Supervision and like:
Alpha Hydroxy Acid Peel:
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peel is a superficial-depth peel. It is the mildest type of peel formulation. The advantage of the mild nature of the AHA peel is that while the effect is mild, there is no extended downtime. People can return to work after the peel, although the application of make-up is discouraged for at least three hours after the peel. AHA peels help to treat fine, superficial skin wrinkles and sun damage. It can be used on people of all skin colors and it can be used on areas other than the face, such as the neck, chest, arms and hands. The most common type of AHA peel is the glycolic acid peel.

TCA Orange Peel: A physician grade TCA/Salicylic Acid Peel that aggressively treats aging and sun-damaged skin. A revolutionary treatment that will rejuvenate skin in one treatment (45 minute

Jessner’s Peel:
Jessner’s peel is a superficial-depth peel. It is appropriate for people requiring a deeper peel. Because it is a combination of salicylic acid, lactic acid (an AHA), and resorcinol, it reaches deeper into the skin than an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peel or beta hydroxy acid (BHA) peel alone. A Jessner's peel can be used to lighten areas of hyper-pigmentation (unsightly darkening), treat acne and acne scars, and improve the appearance of photo-damaged and sun-damaged skin.

Vi Peel™: The VI peel is a strong peel created to reverse the signs of aging and sun damage on the skin and is safe for all skin types! The Vi Peel improves the tone, texture, and clarity of your skin, reduces age spots, stimulates collagen, and can improve acne skin conditions. It is powerful enough to make a serious improvement after just one treatment and works at the cellular level instead of burning skin off. The Vi Peel Precision enhancer is available for a concentrated blend of ingredients making the peel 25% stronger. This is great for those with stubborn hyper-pigmentation.

3 Ways to Rejuvenate Winter Skin

The Winter weather can cause havoc to the skin, here are 3 ways to rejuvenate winter skin or skin effected by sun damage, Rosacea, aging, and environmental factors.

Skin Rejuvenation Method #1: Chemical peels
Chemical peels are topically applied acids that cause controlled shedding of dead skin cell layers and help to restore and rejuvenate the skin's surface. There are various types of peels that reach various depths of the epidermis. It is always best to start with lighter peels before advancing to medium and strong depth peels. Superficial peels are best suited for combating the damaging effects of winter villains. This type of peel is designed to help smooth rough dry skin, remove sun damage and even out skin tone and has little downtime. Chemical peels are a great introduction to skin rejuvenation and an affordable option that average $95-$150

Skin Rejuvenation Method #2: IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photo-facials
IPL photofacials are an amazing way to melt winter weather's effects as well as fine lines caused by holiday stress and worry. IPLs are also great for treating Rosacea, enlarged pores, broken capillaries, sun damage and hyper-pigmentation. They work by using a broad spectrum of light into the dermis. This process accelerates the skin's natural regeneration process, helping connective tissue below the surface to rebuild itself. The resulting collagen stimulation makes the skin's surface smoother & will destroy excess pigment as well as constrict broken capillaries. It typically takes 2-5 treatments and averages $199-$300 per treatment.

Skin Rejuvenation Method #3: Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments
This is the most aggressive method but also garners the most visible results. This works by utilizing laser beam technology to decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The laser is designed to improve the skin's texture, alleviate dark pigmentation and reduce the appearance of acne scars without down-time. We like Palomar 1540 fractional laser resurfacing.

for more information on treatments go to www.winterparklaser.com

Why Combining Aesthetic Treatments is Powerful

Over the past 8 years in our medical spa, we have found that combining at least two cosmetic treatments (whether non-invasive treatments with products or other treatments or non-invasive with surgical) gives the optimal results clients are seeking. A recent study in the July 2011 Aesthetic Surgery Journal concluded that Botox Cosmetic patients treated with a combination of hydroquinone and tretinoin topical experienced a greater reduction in fine lines and wrinkles than those treated with Botox Cosmetic injections alone. We also find that clients receiving cosmetic injectables also benefit highly from laser resurfacing because it offers a longer lasting results to smoothing wrinkles.

Another issue that benefits from multiple treatment modalities is hyper-pigmentation (excess pigment caused by sun damage or Melasma). Utilizing chemical peels to break down pigment and dead skin cells with Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) photo-facial treatments offers a better solution while minimizing any negative side effects, and using hydroquinone bleaching agents with IPL treatments offers a longer lasting result for clients.

Acne also benefits from a combination of laser treatments, chemical peels, and at home products that contain anti-inflammatory ingredients with bacteria fighting ingredients.

Your medical spa and skin-care experts will help to determine the best combination treatment plans for your skin care concerns.

What is a Chemical Peel exactly

Chemical peels have been around since Cleopatra and egyptions used fermented milk as an exfoliant. They were the beginning of non-surgical cosmetic treatments and while they have improved, the basic principles remain the same and they are still a staple in medical spas and plastic surgeon offices today.
Chemical Peels use a precise chemical solution (usually naturally derived from milk, almonds, sugar cane,etc) to remove the damaged outer layers of the skin, revealing a bright, healthy, more vibrant complexion. Chemical peels can dramatically improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, skin tone and texture. In some cases peels can elimate precancerous lesions. Chemical Peels can benefit all complexions, even the most sensitive, and can be performed on any part of the body,especially the chest, back or buttocks areas.

While one treatment will make a difference, it typically takes 3-6 treatments and maintenance to see your desired result and you should stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen after treatments. A good candidate for chemical peels is Individuals wanting to improve the overall quality of their complexion due to acne, wrinkles, or sun damage and correct specific skin conditions may be good candidates for a chemical peel. Skin type and color, ethnic background and age are factors in determining which type of chemical peel would be appropriate.

Chemical peels is done on a consistent basis can really slow down the aging process and keep acne under control.

www.winterparklaser.com

Winter Park Laser Medical Spa Valentines Day Packages

Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Center
Valentines Day Packages
Must Be Purchased 1/15/11-2/15/11
Purchase $250 or More in Gift Cards and Receive a $50 Product Credit.

$85 “Love Me Softly” (Value: $120)
A 1 Hour Customized Light Chemical Peel with cleansing facial.
A de-Puffing Eye Treatment to sooth tired, and swollen eyes & iron out crow's feet.
$225 “Lovely Skin Is All You Need” (Value: $330)
One Strong VI Chemical Peel to erase years and sun damage from your skin leaving you with tighter pores, less wrinkles, and even skin tone and texture.
30 Minute Stress Capsule Session to relax, burn calories, and detox!
$305 “Love the Sunscreen, Not the Sun” ($370)
A 1 hour Light Exfoliating Chemical peel with Cleansing Facial.
One IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photo-Facial to remove years of sun damage, redness, and broken capillaries.

1215 W. Fairbanks Ave. Orlando FL 32804
www.winterparklaser.com
(407) 601-1185

Treatments for Wrinkles

Great article: http://nathancharette.evonybuddy.com/2010/12/14/wrinkles-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/
Wrinkle is a ridge or crease of a surface. It usually refers to folds on fabric or clothes , or on the skin of an organism; the folds are generally random and do not exhibit any repeating pattern. Wrinkles are the thin, creased, and sagging skin that is especially noticeable on the face, neck, and hands. Wind, heat and chemicals and the natural effects of aging cause a certain amount of wrinkling in everyone, but it is much worse in people who spend a lot of time in the sun. Years of exposure to the sun cause “photoaging,” which includes freckles, yellowing, roughness, visible blood vessels, and dark spots, as well as wrinkling.

Typically, as a person ages, the sweat and oil glands of the skin become less numerous and smaller in size. This causes the skin to lose moisture and to dry out, and it soon begins to sag in places where the collagen, the elastic fibers that support the skin, has weakened the most. The skin around the eyelids, jaw, and neck is especially thin, and therefore more naturally prone to aging. In addition to sun exposure, smoking may contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Finally, it is believed that some wrinkling is predetermined genetically from one’s parents.

Causes of Wrinkles

Aging is also one of the main causes of skin aging. Years of sun exposure cause the supporting structures of the skin, primarily the collagen and elastin, to weaken and break down. In addition, as a person ages, the sweat and oil glands of the skin become less numerous and smaller in size. This causes the skin to lose moisture and to dry out. Dry skin with weak collagen and elastin will sag, shrivel, and wrinkle. The skin around the eyelids, jaw, and neck is especially thin, and therefore more naturally prone to aging.

Other environmental factors, including cigarette smoke and pollution, particularly ozone, may hasten ageing by producing oxygen-free radicals. These are particles produced by many of the body’s normal chemical processes in excessive amounts they can damage cell membranes and interact with genetic material, possibly contributing to the development of a number of skin disorders, including wrinkles and, more importantly, cancer. Rapid weight loss can also cause wrinkles by reducing the volume of fat cells that cushion the face. This not only makes a person look gaunt, but can cause the skin to sag.

Symptoms of Wrinkles

1. Deeplyformed lines.

2. Skin that is wrinkled may also have a tough, leathery appearance if the person has had a lot of exposure to the sun.

3. Fine, crinkling crosshatch marks.

Treatment of Wrinkles

There are numerous over-the-counter treatment options for wrinkles, including various creams and lotions. Prescription treatments, including the retinoid cream renova, are also an option.Removing skin layers to reduce wrinkles or irregular depressions is an effective way to regain smoother, more youthful looking skin. Dermabrasion (scraping layers away) and chemical peels (dissolving skin away) are two of the traditional methods used in skin resurfacing.

Laser skin resurfacing with an ablative laser (such as an erbium or carbon dioxide laser) is another technique that, like dermabrasion and deeper chemical peels, may require some downtime during the healing process. Other treatment options include Dermabrasion, a procedure that sands away the top layers of skin. Injection of substances such as fat or collagen, which is a gelatin-like substance, under the skin. It is one of the traditional methods used in skin resurfacing. Other lasers, known as non-ablative lasers, may also be beneficial in treating wrinkles. These lasers work by heating the dermis and stimulating collagen growth. This process, which leaves the outer layers of skin intact, has no downtime associated with it. Botulinum toxin- this is used for wrinkles between the eyebrows and around the eyes. The toxin is injected into the muscle that caused the wrinkle. It paralyzes the muscle, so that the wrinkles gradually disappear when the muscle isn’t used.

Winter Park Laser offers non-ablative lasers for wrinkles, chemical peels, and injectables such as botox. www.winterparklaser.com