News

29
October
2011

Astonishing cosmetics made of the placenta

The use of the placenta essence in making cosmetics is considered as one of the most striking and marvelous innovations nowadays. Products with placenta are highly valued because of their great effect on skin.

The placenta is the lining of the womb that is expelled after birth. It is claimed that it is rich in nutrients. This is because the placenta is where the foeutus receives nourishments. Placenta cosmetics is believed to have a lot of benefits for the skin. It helps to maintain skin’s youth and increases its vitality and elasticity. Manufacturers of cosmetics believe that the cells extracted from the placenta promote the stimulation of tissue growth and remove wrinkles. Thus, placenta is a very effective and popular anti – ageing product.

Additionally, it has been proven that natural skin care products with cell extracts (e.g. placenta) are more effective than those without cell extracts. For example, researchers say that people using cosmetics made with plant extracts sooner or later become dependent on it. This means that its effect on skin decreases or dissapears and people have to try other products. Conversely, placenta cosmetics makes people less likely become dependent on the products they use. It is because cosmetics made from placenta cells are made with our own cell biological structure.

Having won many awards across Europe several years in a row, the leader of placenta cosmetics production is Plazan. Jennifer Lopez is only one of many celebrities who uses Plazan SkinCare products because they really work! This company produces cosmetics with all – natural and compatible components that provide real benefits witout any secondary effects. It has made wide cosmetic series which include creams for skin care, hair care and face masks preparations. Placenta or fetal cell skin care, is the most effective natural treatment for wrinkles, burns and scars. Creams of the series enable to renew the skin quickly and effectively, to keep its youth and freshness and also to save from premature ageing. Plazan shampoos, balms and gels make your hair healthy, shiny and voluminous.

Taking into consideration all mentioned above, placenta is a very effective component in making cosmetics. Because of this ingredient, your skin’s life will be extremely improved. You will enjoy much healthier and smoothier skin!

Written by: The Skin Institute Categories: News, Anti Aging, Skin Care

29
October
2011

Is Accutane as Dangerous as Initialy Beleived?

Accutane

 

Fears that acne drugs such as Roche’s Accutane could cause depression may have been overblown, since the condition itself is strongly linked to suicidal thoughts and depression, scientists said last week.

Levels of depression and suicidal thoughts were two or three times higher in young people who had the most severe acne than in those with little or none of the skin condition, Norwegian researchers found. The results suggested depressive side effects previously associated with acne medicines may be due to the condition—likely to be quite severe in those prescribed drugs for it— rather than the effects of the medication, they said.

“There is a pretty strong and consistent association between acne and symptoms of depression or mental health problems,” said Jon Anders Halvorsen of Oslo University Hospital, whose study was published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.

Accutane, which Swiss drugmaker Roche said last year it would stop selling because of generic competition, has had a controversial history since its 1982 launch. It is now available as a generic medicine, known as isotretinoin.

Although powerful at clearing acne, the drug has been linked to birth defects if taken during pregnancy and has also been suspected of causing mental side effects, although Roche has vigorously defended personal injury claims in this area. A study by Canadian scientists published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry in 2008 suggested isotretinoin might double the risk of developing depression.

Acne is a widespread skin complaint found in up to 80% of adolescents. It affects glands on the face and neck that produce grease resulting in spots, pimples and inflammation and can lead to scarring. Most cases are classed as mild, but in more severe cases it can be quite disfiguring—a sensitive problem in a social group that is already very body-conscience. Experts say around 10–20% of adolescents can develop severe acne.

“There has been a lot of controversy regarding these drugs and that has made many dermatologists cautious about prescribing isotretinoin,” said Halvorsen. “Our study is important because it provides an argument for not being so cautious.” Halvorsen studied results from a survey of 3,775 18- and 19-year-olds in Oslo. They found twice as many girls and three times as many boys with severe acne reported having suicidal thoughts than peers with little or no acne.

Generic drugmakers Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Mylan and Ranbaxy sell generic isotretinoin, which Halvorsen described as “very effective” against acne.

Cambridge University psychiatrist Ian Goodyer said it may be too early to draw firm conclusions. “From this research, I do not think we can say negative impacts on mental health were nothing to do with the drugs taken for severe acne. There may be additive effects in an already vulnerable group.”

SKIN Inc

Written by: The Skin Institute, Related Source Categories: News, Acne, Esthetics School, Skin Care

22
February
2011

Skin Cancer

 

Did you know that if you have light-colored skin, blue or green eyes, and blonde or red hair you are more susceptible to skin cancer just because of your looks? There are three major kinds of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. These three skin cancers have their own different traits, characteristics, and severity but they are all caused by the exact same thing; UV rays.

        Basal cell carcinoma is the least threatening of these three cancers. “It is the most common form of cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Socitey, 75% of all skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas” (Skin Cancer Foundation). Basal cell starts in the epidermis and grows slowly and painlessly. Basal cell carcinoma appears on the skin that sees the most sun, for example the scalp, face, ears, back, and hands. Basal cell can appear as a red spot, a shinny bump in the skin, or even an open sore that seems to take weeks to heal. ”Basal cell skin cancer used to be more common in people over age 40, but is now often diagnosed in younger people”(Skin Cancer Foundation). Even if basal cell carcinoma is the least threatening, it is still scary to have any form of cancer and it should be taken care of immediately.

        “More than 700,000 new cases of  squamous cell carcinoma are diagnosed every year. That makes it the second most common skin cancer”(Skin Cancer Foundation). Squamous cell can appear like basal cell with red scaly patches or sores that take weeks to heal. People who spend their days outside, either for work or for play, need to use better protection because these activities are what cause most cases of squamous cell carcinoma. “Squamous cell carcinomas are at least twice as frequent in men as in women. They rarely appear before age 50 and are most often seen in individuals in their 70’s”(Skin Cancer Foundation). People working outside in construction, landscaping, and road work are more at risk than someone that takes leisurely walks everynight. Being aware and protecting yourself from UV rays is the first step to protecting yourself from cancer in the future.

        Squamous cell is not the most dangerous skin cancer but it is more harmful than basal cell and can be very difficult to remove because it spreads so easily. It not only spreads but it very rarely is completely gone. Even after having surgery to remove the cancer, in most cases, the cancer will grow back in  a few years because there is unreversable damage to the skin. 

        The most dangerous skin cancer is Melanoma. Melanoma can appear in pre-existing moles. It can also spread very easily throughout the body. The most common places to find melanoma are the trunk, legs, and arms, mainly on elderly people, as well as the scalp in men. There are 4 basic types of melanomas. “Three of them occupy only the top layers of the skin and may become invasive; the fourth is invasive from the start”(Skin Cancer Foundation).

        “Superficial spreading melanoma is by far the most common type, accounting for about 70% of all cases. This is the one most often seen in young people”(Skin Cancer Foundation). This cancer is usually seen in previously benign moles, and can appear most any place on the body. Lentigo maligna also remains close to the surface of the skin, and is mostly found in elderly people. Acral lentiginous melanoma usually appears as a black or brown discoloration under the nails, on the soles of the feet, or palms of the hands. Acral is different from the two previous kinds as far as location goes, but it is the same in characterisitcs because it spreads on the surface before penetrating deeper into the skin. The last type of melanoma is Nodular, which starts out invasive and is the most aggressive of the melanomas. “Nodular melanoma is found in 10 to 15% of melanoma cases”(Skin Cancer Foundation).

        The first steps to recognizing melanoma are the ABCDE’s of melanoma. Asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving are the four things you need to take into consideration when examining your body and the moles that you have. If you ever spot a mole that looks suspicious, it never hurts to hava a doctor look at it just to make sure it is benign.

        Skin cancer is a very serious and common thing that everyone needs to be aware of. Frequent doctor visits, sunscreen application, and staying away from the sun during mid-day are things that every person should do to help prevent and treat skin cancer. There are many different surgeries available for skin cancer removal, but staying out of the sun and preventing skin cancer is an easier alternative.

Resources:

*A.D.A.M inc

*Healthy Nation

*Skin Cancer Foundation

Written by Mary Harkness – Master Student  01/16/2011

Written by: Mary Harkness - Master Student Categories: News, Esthetics School, Skin Care

02
February
2011

Lumenis One

Lumenis is a well known name in the world of medical lasers and are the leaders in Aesthetic, Ophthalmic, and Surgical procedures. They are sold in more than 100 countries and currently hold over 250 patents in light based technology. Lumenis is one of the largest laser manufactures and has been in the industry since 1966 originating with ESC Medical Systems and Coherent Medical Group. The company is committed to the development of new technology and their belief in “Enhancing Life. Advancing Technology”.

            The Lumenis One is a one of a kind laser system that offers IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), LHR (Laser Hair Reduction) and multi-spot Nd:YAG treatments. This particular laser is used in medical offices world wide for aesthetic procedures such as The Advanced Plastic Surgery Skin and Laser Center, Dr. Rhodes and Dr. Peterson, in Saint George Utah. The versatility of this laser allows doctors to give their patients a wide range of laser treatments all while using only one machine allowing for both doctor and patient convenience.  

            The Lumenis One has over 1500 pre-programmed treatment parameters as well as a large, easy to use, intuitive touch screen. Providing an on-board database to help track and record individual patient treatment records, the Lumenis One really works with the doctors to provide efficient, optimum results for patients. The size of the machine is 63in x 18in x27in and weighs 338lbs. It has three separate handles, Universal IPL, LightSheer, and Multi-Spot Nd:YAG, all with specific functions.

            The Universal IPL handle offers photo rejuvenation and permanent hair reduction treatments, as well as treating both vascular and pigmented lesions such as port wine stains and lentigo.  The Universal IPL comes with seven interchangeable expert filters, each targeting a specific issue. The wavelength spectrum is between 515-1200nm, a fluence of 10-40 J/cm2 with a pulse duration of 3-100ms and a pulse delay of 1-120ms. The Universal IPL offers a spot size of 15mm x 35mm or 8mm x 15mm all while providing continuous contact cooling. IPL treatments should be done every three weeks and can vary in amount of treatments based on particular area being treated. At The Advanced Plastic Surgery Skin and Laser center IPL treatments start at $50 for a single treatment on the nose and go up to $1,300 for a series of 3 treatments on the face, neck, and chest.

            The LightSheer handle provides permanent hair reduction. This particular laser has a spectrum of 800nm with a fluence of 10-100 J/cm2, pulse duration of 5-400ms, spot size of 9mm x 9mm and provides continuous contact cooling. The LightSheer is an FDA approved diode for permanent hair reduction on all skin types, Fitzpatrick I-VI, and can even help treat pseudofolliculitus barbe. The LightSheer can target almost all hair colors, and does not limit LHR to just fair-skinned, dark-haired individuals. Treatments usually require a series of at least 3-6 sessions, and in some cases more, depending on the individual and the amount of hair. As this is a permanent hair reduction and not permanent hair removal, some may need to follow up with a yearly maintenance treatment to minimize follicular re-growth. The joys of laser hair reduction is that there is no down time, it is fast and efficient, cost is more affordable than electrolysis treatments, and for many it provides no side effects. As with all medical procedures, it is important to receive proper training to insure both operator and patient safety. There are some risks with LHR, even though it is a non ablative procedure, such as hypo pigmentation (loss of color) and hyper pigmentation (darkening of color), that is why it is important to find a well trained and competent clinician. Treatments vary from $50 for a single treatment on the upper lip to around $1800 for a series of 6 treatments for full legs. Touch ups run around $25 for every 15min. Prices are subject to change from office to office and demographically. It is important to have a thorough consultation before treatment.

            The Multi-Spot Nd:YAG handle is used to treat Leg Veins, Deeper Vascular Lesions, and provides a non ablative treatment of Facial Wrinkles. This Nd:YAG laser has a spectrum of 1064mn, fluence of 20-225 J/cm2, pulse duration of 2-20ms, pulse delay of 5-100ms with multiple-sequential pulsing, and a spot size of 2mm x 4mm, 6mm or 9mm all while providing continuous contact cooling. The Multi-Spot Nd:YAG laser provides the largest spot size available on the market for Nd:YAG lasers. Results can be seen in as soon as one treatment. There is no down time for patients and results are long lasting.

            Lumenis is a leader in lasers. They are world renown and with quality come a high price tag. The Lumenis One laser is one of the pricier units on the market, but you can find an older model used starting around $45,000.00. Lumenis offers both service plans for repairs and replacement parts as well as warranties. Used Products have no warranty.  Service plans start around $6000 dollars for 90days and if the motherboard needs to be replaced it requires a $15,000.00 reenlistment fee. Trainings are offered through clinical trainers for around $3000, Laser Colleges for around $6000 and one-on-one MD training for around $12,000.00 a day. Lumenis has a very detailed warranty and sales policy (attached). Liability insurance policies will vary from doctor to doctor. States will also have rules and regulations pertaining to the use of medical lasers and who can operate them and where

Written by: Natalie Hansler - Master Student Categories: News

27
January
2011

Understanding Rosacea

The Basics

 

Rosacea is a relatively common, chronic skin disorder believed to affect 14 million Americans. Its classic symptoms are patchy flushing (redness) and inflammation, particularly on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. It typically appears between the ages of 30 and 50 and affects more women than men. Because the symptoms emerge slowly, rosacea may be mistaken at first for sunburn, leading to a delay in treatment

As the condition progresses, flushing becomes more persistent and noticeable. Some people also notice stinging or burning sensations in the affected areas. Small, red, solid bumps (called papules) and pus-filled pimples (called pustules) may appear on the skin. Because these appear similar to acne, the condition is sometimes mistaken for acne itself.

Small, dilated blood vessels (telangiectasias) may become visible, too. Often, when people with rosacea blush, the enlarged blood vessels in their faces look like thin red lines. In some cases, the eyes also may become involved — and may become red, irritated, and may burn (ocular rosacea).

In advanced cases, more of the face is affected. The skin swells, cysts form, and small, knobby bumps develop on the nose, making it appear red and swollen. This condition, called rhinophyma, is relatively uncommon and primarily affects men. It was the cause of the late comedian W.C. Fields’ best-known feature — his trademark bulbous nose.

Rosacea may be persistent and worsen over time, leading to permanent changes in appearance and affecting self-esteem. There is no known cure for rosacea, but the condition is treatable. Most cases can be controlled by avoiding factors that trigger flushing such as sun exposure, spicy foods, drinking hot beverages and alcohol, using sun protection, and by using medication.

What Causes It?

No one knows for certain what causes rosacea. Researchers have suggested several theories that may be related to its development:

  • A disorder of the blood vessels that causes them to swell, leading to flushing.
  • A genetic predisposition combined with certain environmental factors that may irritate the skin.
  • Clogging of the sebaceous gland openings with skin mites called Demodex folliculorum, which live in facial hair follicles.

Rosacea seems to affect fair-skinned people more often, though it can affect any skin type. Often several people in a family have the condition, so researchers think it may be at least partly genetic. In some cases, rosacea may be associated with migraine headache, other skin disorders, and certain eye disorders, including blepharitis and keratitis.

Written by: Related Source, The Skin Institute Categories: News, Basic Esthetics, Skin Care

05
December
2010

How To Shape Your Eyebrows Like a Pro!

Every makeup artist I have ever spoken to says eyebrows are the most important facial feature. All angles of the face are determined by the brows: they can lift the eyes; narrow or widen the face. While there is a lot of opportunity here, it is important to let your natural shape be your guide. It is probably close to optimal for your face and anything too drastic can look unnatural. Here are some techniques from our team of fabulous makeup artist educators. Basic Shaping: The inner edge of the brow should line up with the outside of the corresponding nostril (A). The highest point of the arch should be just at the outer edge of the eyeball. (B) The outer brow should taper off to a point that intersects with an imaginary line drawn from the outer nostril past the outer edge of the eye (C), and you thought geometry wouldn’t be useful later in life! It sounds complicated, but just follow the drawing. How To Shape Your Eyebrows Like a Pro! Advanced techniques: You can lift an experienced eye with strategic eyebrow shaping! With an experienced eye, the lid has a tendency to be heavy. Extending the brow down to the “D” line can drag the lid down and make the eyes look tired. Instead, try feathering the brow upward and out from the arch to just above the outer corner of the eye (E). Please keep it natural, we don’t want to create wings here! To minimize the curve of a round face, direct the outer third of the brow towards the top of the ear. If the face is square, direct it toward the middle of the ear. This helps balance the face. If the face is long, keep the brow more straight across, directing it above the ear. An oval face already looks balanced, but to enhance this harmony, you can direct the outer third towards the ear lobe. How To Shape Your Eyebrows Like a Pro! Eyebrow makeup No matter how full and perhaps even unruly your eyebrows are (hello!), a little eyebrow makeup works wonders for your look. At the very least groom them. Every morning when you do your makeup, run a Deluxe Spoolie Brush through them (it works much better than an old toothbrush, believe me I have tried them both). A bit of eyebrow wax will hold them in place beautifully. Most brows have some thin places that need to be filled in. Try the brow powders in our new Bitty Brow Kit, any appropriate shade of PurePressed Eye Shadow or a soft shade of Pencil (Taupe is a favorite). Comb the brows down and apply the color directly to the sparse patches on the skin. If the brow needs lengthening, apply the color with light feathery strokes. Brows can be colored and held in place in one step with PureBrow Gels. Lightly stroke the wand into the hairs, using a little at a time. Smooth with your Deluxe Spoolie Brush. Tips: If you want to preview a new brow look before you commit to plucking, use White or Taupe Pencil (depending on your skin tone) to color over the places you intend to pluck out. Beware of over plucking, as too-thin brows can actually age you (gasp)! Nobody’s eyebrows are totally symmetrical. Be careful of using stencils, as they can make your brows look unnatural. The hair and brow color should match pretty closely. PureBrow Gels can change the color of your brows, if you want. When my blonde sister goes very strawberry, she reaches for Auburn; or try the Bitty Brow Kit in Blonde. For silver-haired lovelies, try Longest Lash Mascara in Slate Grey on your brows. Or if you prefer powder, try Slate Brown PurePressed Eye Shadow. Posted by Angelica Chayes on Fri, Jun 04, 2010 http://www.youtube.com/janeiredale

Written by: Angelica Chayes Categories: News