Regarding Lasers:

Do Lasers really work?

In our high-tech world technology sometimes disappoints.  But in the case of the modern day non-ablative lasers, these treatments are a marvel to experienced skin care experts.

What is a “non-ablative” laser?

A non-ablative laser does not harm the skin surface.

I hear lasers really don’t work that well?

Absolutely false! . . . but only if the correct laser is being used for the correct condition.

Why did my doctor not recommend laser?

Lasers are not taught in medical school.  Most specialists have never seen a laser treatment with the modern laser.

What is the difference between a laser and IPL?

IPL stands for “Intense Pulsed Light.” An IPL system uses white light at a very high intensity.  The light is like a camera’s flashlamp, only stronger.  White light energy is absorbed by every component of the skin (water, pigment, hemoglobin) and is therefore not target specific.  The device has the risk of targeting “too much” and therefore a higher risk of damaging healthy components of the skin.

Do you use IPL systems?

No.  IPL systems are not target-specific and therefore do not have a significant treatment role in most advanced laser centers.  Laser treatment facilities that have only one or two systems will often use this non target-specific system.  IPL systems use extra energy and are not tolerated as well by clients as the more specific lower energy lasers.

Do lasers hurt?

Lasers are very tolerable.  We use topical numbing lotion for some clients, but most clients do not request this intervention.

What laser do you use for hair removal?

For ethnic and tanned skin there is only one choice for effective and safe hair removal: the 1064 Nd:YAG.  The Nd:YAG that we use is the most advanced on the market.  Most facilities do not have a second laser specifically for untanned brown and white skin.  Many studies have shown that this Alexandrite crystal laser has unprecedented efficacy.  During a consultation visit our staff will show you the physics and you will also understand why these lasers are the industry leaders.

Can you make my skin look better?

Regardless if your skin problem is splotchiness, thin skin, scars, acne, wrinkles, hair or other blemishes, we have seven different laser and light systems available to treat at multiple levels and specific components.  Our typical skin rejuvenation client obtains results beyond their expectations.

Can you treat acne?

We have two lasers and a BLU-U light system which together can usually perform a miracle on most cystic, pustular, and comedonal (blackhead/whitehead) acne.

What is Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)?

PDT is a treatment which uses a combination of a very special light or laser in combination with the topical application of a substance called ALA/Levulan.  This natural substance is applied topically and selectively absorbs into fast-growing epidermal cells, including photodamaged skin, sebaceous glands, and actinic keratoses.  ALA is converted to a powerful photosensitizer, protoporphyrin IX.  When activated a singlet oxygen is produced that destroys the target cell.

Is PDT safe and effective?

PDT is a very safe treatment that has the potential to “cure” your skin condition for months to years.  Your doctor may recommend that you receive a series of treatments to improve the condition of your skin.  Your treatment plan will be customized to meet your skin care needs.

Regarding Injectables/Cosmetic Fillers:

How does Botox work?

In small doses, Botox relaxes the muscles that cause age-producing wrinkles.  With advanced Botox techniques we are able to reshape a distorted face to provide an aesthetically pleasing expression.

Is Botox safe?

Like many medicines, used at the correct doses Botox is totally safe.  Its safety profile is so impressive, we have only had positive results.  Our medical director has used Botox for medical conditions in very high doses, and has only had satisfactory results.  For cosmetic conditions lower doses are used.

What are fillers used for?

Augmentation of lips and reversal of skin grooves, wrinkles and depressed scars.

What is your favorite filler?

Our doctors use most of the available injectable fillers on the market, including Restylane, Collagen, and Radiesse.

What is the most popular filler?

Our physicians choose fillers depending on multiple factors.  (What is the defect? How severe is the defect? What is the location of the defect? How long does the client want to have results?)

Are fillers safe?

Most fillers are substances that are natural to the human body and are therefore safe to use.