Latisse, or bimatoprost opthalmalic solution, is a prescription ointment that helps increase and promote eyelash growth. It is the only FDA approved medication that is specifically designed to enhance eyelashes. People who suffer from hypotrichosis of the eyelash have found Latisse to be very effective at restoring their eyelashes to normal growth patterns. Latisse has been proven to safely help regrow eyelashes that have fallen out, and it also strengthens existing eyelashes and makes them longer and thicker. If you have experienced eyelash loss, Latisse can be used to help you grow new ones.

The Science Behind the Treatment

When you apply Latisse daily, the active ingredients stimulate the growth phase of your eyelashes. The ointment increases the length of the growth phase, which causes your lashes to grow longer. It also causes more eyelash hairs to grow during the increased growth phase, so your eyelashes will be more thickly grouped as well as longer. Scientists don’t fully understand how the Bimatoprost prolongs and increases the hair growth during the eyelash growth phase, but research shows that it is very effective.

Safe and Easy to Use

Using Latisse is very straightforward and simple. All you need to do is apply the ointment directly to your upper eyelid once a day. The best time to apply Latisse is at night before you go to bed so that it can work while you are sleeping. Latisse should not be applied to the lower eyelid or other areas of your face because it may promote unwanted hair growth. If you get Latisse in your eye there should be no damage. It is not necessary to rinse your eyes out if they come into contact with Latisse. The most common side effects of Latisse include itching or burning eyes. Using Latisse overnight can reduce the chances of uncomfortable side effects.

When to Expect to See Results

Since Latisse works by enhancing natural eyelash growth, results will not be apparent right away. Most users begin to see a difference after they’ve used the product for about 8 weeks. You may not notice the difference at first because it is such a gradual process. After about 16 weeks you will see the full effects of the product. The key to experiencing results in a reasonable amount of time is to apply the product every single day so that it has an opportunity to work without interruption.

Tags: Darker Lashes, Eyelash Growth, Fuller Lashes, Latisse, maryland, md, skin care annapolis

WoW! Thanks to all of you for attending and celebrating our second Anniversary and first of many educational events. We had a beautiful sunshine day jam packed with information, give aways and of course food and drink. Thank you to our team of professionals; Jason from Kinerase, Doris from Colorescience and Diana from Allergan / Latisse for spending the day with all of us and sharing their knowledge, expertise and support. We thank Mary and Cheryl from Giolitti’s for their culinary efforts in putting together scrumptious, beautiful nourishment for the day. All the food left over went to The Light House Shelter at 206 West Street to feed the less fortunate.

Our next event will be SATURDAY APRIL 17TH, ONE SESSION ONLY FROM 11 AM TO 2PM. We will feature Katie Stoner from Biopelle/Tensage who will educate and share the amazing story behind the Tensage product line. She will share with you what these growth factors are and explain how they are different from the others on the market. Once again Doris Crispell from Colorescience Pro Mineral Makeup will be sharing the therapeutic magic of pure mineral makeup. Come and allow Doris to give you your complimentary color match using the “Best and Purest Mineral Makeup on the Planet”. We appreciate all of you for supporting us with your friendship, business referrals and for becoming our fans on face book. Would you consider sharing us and all that we do with your family and friends?

Tags: annapolis, Annapolis Skin Care, Annapolis Skin Care's 2nd Anniversary Event, dermatology, maryland, md, skin care, skin treatments

Broadband Light (BBL) Photo Rejuvenation is one of the most advanced treatments for skin conditions associated with intrinsic aging and sun damage such as hyperpigmentation, broken blood vessels, Poikilderma, dull complexion, enlarged pores, Rosacea, Acne, and hair reduction.

BBL technology harnesses the power of pulsed light to provide extraordinary results in photo rejuvenation therapy. The revolutionary Sciton Laser allows for interchangeable wavelength filters, providing precise and customized treatment for each patient.

During treatment, Broadband Light energy gently heats the upper layers of skin. The treated areas absorb the heat, which stimulates new collagen production and gives the skin a firmer, smoother appearance. Simultaneously, photo-thermal energy dramatically reduces redness, age spots, freckles and many other types of unwanted pigmentation.

Following treatment, the affected area may appear flushed for several hours. Pigmented areas will darken after treatment and then begin to fade and eventually flake off. The result… a smoother brighter complexion with smaller pores, fewer lines and more even skin tone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should consider BBL Photo Rejuvenation?

Photo Rejuvenation with Broadband Light can be performed on anyone wanting to improve the appearance of pigmented skin while simultaneously smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. The treatment can be performed on all areas of the body with significant improvement, however the most commonly treated areas are the face, neck, back of hands, chest and shoulders.

Most BBL patients experience slight to moderate redness the first day, and a temporary darkness in pigmentation and general flakiness for up to two weeks.

How many BBL treatments will I need?

The number of treatments depends on the condition, severity and the area treated. Generally, three to six treatments every  four to six weeks will produce optimal results.

What can I expect during a BBL treatment.

Photo Rejuvenation is a gentle, minimally invasive treatment. During the session, your eyes will be protected from the light with safety glasses. As the skin absorbs the light, you may feel the sensation of a rubber band snap or warming of the skin. The procedure may last only a few minutes or up to 40 minutes depending on the size of the treated area. Usually there is no need for a topical anesthesia, however one may be offered if sensitive areas are being treated.

What can I expect after a BBL treatment?

Photo Rejuvenation with Broadband Light is a minimally invasive treatment with a short recovery period. Most people return to work and resume most activities immediately following treatment.

BBL patients usually experience slight to moderate redness the first day, and a temporary darkness in pigmentation and general flakiness for up to two weeks. Once the once-damaged skin is completely exfoliated, skin will feel softer and appear brighter and smoother with smaller pores, and fewer lines and dark spots.

What type of aftercare does BBL Photo Rejuvenation require? There is minimal care following your BBL treatment. Certain skin care products may be recommended to help minimize redness and speed the healing process. The treated area will be sensitive to UV light and will need to be shaded from direct sun exposure until it has fully healed. A sunscreen (30 SPF or greater) should be applied daily to help prevent recurrence of undesired pigmentation and further photodamage.

Please call for pricing

Tags: Aesthetics Skin Care, annapolis, BBL, Broadband Light Photo Rejuvenation, maryland, md, medical skin care, Photo Rejuvenation, skin care, skin treatments

Have you ever stopped to think about the products you are applying to your face, neck and chest? Are you curious about the active ingredients? What are they? Why are they so special? There are so many products on the market it is mind-boggling. Even for me the skin professional. So in my attempt to educate my self, I feel compelled to educate you.

This month I investigated Kinerase Pro+Therapy. As most of you know I’ve been in the biz for a long time. In 1998 Kinerase was introduced to me as a product I could incorporate into an existing skin care regime. A product that will produce Retin A like results with out the redness, irritation and peeling that many experience in the initial phases of a retinoid based home care program.

The magical ingredient, Kinetin also known as N6-furfuryladenine is derived from plant based RNA. Kinetin is a powerful anti aging plant hormone that has the ability to protect and repair DNA and proteins from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. I love this product because it works.

In 2006 the original Kinerase went over the counter, Kinerase Pro +Therapy was born and was made available to the medical aesthetician.

So how is Kinerase Pro+therapy different?  They added another plant hormone called Zeatin. Studies have shown the combination of these two-powerhouse plant hormones increase the skins ability to retain moisture within the cells leaving the skin firmer, plumper and more youthful. You will notice improved appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, skin roughness and hyperpigmentation. There are many other ingredients enhancing the anti aging benefits of this wonderful product line such as Antarcticine. This ingredient protects and regenerates skin, by enhancing the production of collagen and elastin, and increases the skins moisture content. It is a very powerful anti wrinkle glycoprotein obtained via biotechnology from a bacteria strain found on the bottom of an Antarctic glacier. The Pro+Therapy line also features ingredients such as Vitamin C, E, green tea, to fight free radicals, salicylic acid, lactic acid, to aid in exfoliation, beta glucan to enhance the skins immune response, just to name a few. The use of these products daily will prevent and repair damage, taking your skin to the next level. “Healthy skin is beautiful.”

Tags: annapolis, anti aging, Cosmetic Medical Skincare, maryland, md, skin care, skin care annapolis, Wrinkle Treatment, wrinkles

Pam Zagula, LE, LPN

Between the ages of 15 and 25 years, healthy skin renews itself about every 21 days. As we age the rate of cell turnover declines significantly. Removing dead skin cells naturally stimulates collagen and accelerates cell renewal. Regular exfoliation improves the skin’s ability to absorb water, serum, lotions, creams or medications. Over time, this will improve skin texture and tone, leaving the skin firm and smooth. Fine lines and wrinkles are diminished and a more even skin color is unveiled. The cumulative effect of exfoliation leads to improvement in acne, rosacea, and environmental damage.

Whether done at home or professionally, regular exfoliation is a very important step in the cleansing process and is an essential component to all age management and acne control skin care regimes. Virtually everyone needs to exfoliate.

Exfoliation falls into two basic categories – mechanical and chemical.

In my opinion, the best at home mechanical exfoliation is accomplished using the Clairsonic Pro Skin Care system, a great cleanser and the simple act of shaving.

Clairsonic’s sonic vibration and oscillating brush head gently removes 6X more dead skin cells, dirt, oil, and makeup than regular washing.

Shaving with a razor regularly, stimulates collagen and elastin production, removes superficial uneven pigment, as well as keeps your face hair free.

The best professional mechanical exfoliation treatments are Vibraderm, dermaplaning and LASER skin resurfacing.

Vibraderm is crystal and suction free microdermabrasion. A sterile abrasive stainless steel paddle vibrates over the skin surface to efficiently remove dead cells, massage muscle and stimulate tiny vessels that feed the skin. At the cellular level the cell wall becomes more permeable and the cellular channels open for deep penetration of products. Unlike conventional microdermabrasion, the chance of creating new broken blood vessels is not an issue.

Dermaplaning is quite simply, dry skin shaving. The sterile surgical blade gently glides over the surface scraping off surface dead cells, superficial pigment and unwanted hair. Dermaplaning the skin is great prior to or after other treatment modalities such as LED, oxygen, micro-current, Broad Band Light Photorejuvenation, chemical peel, LASER , Vibradermabrasion, antioxidant or medication infusion and will enhance treatment efficacy.

LASER resurfacing is performed with a CO2 LASER. The damaged layers of skin are vaporized with controlled precision. You may require a five to ten day recovery depending on the LASER used, the depth of the peel and your skin’s unique reaction.

Chemical peels stimulate the skin to do just that; peel. The most commonly used chemicals are Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acids, TriChlorocetic Acid, Retinoic Acid and Fruit enzymes. Most chemical peels will cause the skin to shed three to five days after application. Some may leave you peeling five to fourteen days after. The type of chemical, its potency and your skin’s unique reaction determines your post peel recovery time.

No matter how you choose to exfoliate, the goal is to restore skin health and beauty. The accumulation of home and in office treatments will absolutely assist you in your desired result. Healthy skin is beautiful.

Remember to always apply an appropriate moisturizer, sunscreen and practice sun safety.

Tags: annapolis, exfoliate, Exfolite, maryland, md, medical skin care, skin care, skin care annapolis, skin care treatments, skin treatments

Are women shaving to save face? Absolutely!

I have learned so many remarkable things from the incredible women that come to me for my expertise. They share their life experiences with me and I am so grateful for their trust. I am going to share with you why I incorporate dermaplaning into my health and wellness plan for my skin and the skin of my clients.

Early in my career I was in consultation with a very beautiful woman I thought to be in her early 50’s. She had not revealed her birthdate during consultation, as many choose not to. As I was explaining dermaplaning to her, she politely listened, then shared with me her secret. To my surprise she was not in her early 50’s. She was 65.  Clearly, she appeared to me to be 10 years younger than her chronological age. She continued to reveal while living in Japan she was introduced to facial shaving. She shared with me the barely known fact; Japanese women shave their face regularly and, historically, have done so since the 16th century. To my surprise, she had been shaving her face daily for twenty years. Her skin was delicate and had exquisite texture and color.  She was delighted with the idea of having her face dry shaved professionally.

Christina Carlino, a mentor, friend and the past CEO of Biomedic Clinical Care, now La Roche Posey, introduced me to dermaplaning in 1991. Dermaplaning is the third step in Biomedic’s trademarked Micropeel.

As I researched this topic on line, I found that there were several other names for this technique; “Clinical Skin Resurfacing Facial Exfoliation” and “Razor Facial.” I know it simply as dermaplaning.

Dermaplaning is a mechanical exfoliation as opposed to using chemicals or lasers.  With the steady hand of a trained practitioner, a sterile # 10 – Teflon coated surgical steel blade is attached to a # 3 knife handle. It is held by the practitioner at a 45-degree angle and then the magic begins. The guided blade gently scrapes across the skin’s dry surface removing dead skin cells, superficial pigmentation and unwanted facial hair.

In a clinical environment, dermaplaning is a very effective procedure by itself or can be combined with other modalities such as Vibradermabrasion, acid peels, BBL, LASER, LED and others in order to enhance efficacy. Stripping away the dead, uneven stratum corneum from the epidermis removes the barrier and allows for maximum penetration of active ingredients. Dermaplaning promotes cellular turnover and stimulates collagen and elastin. Immediately post-treatment the skin feels smooth, appears luminous, fine lines seem to disappear and make up glides on with ease.

Contrary to what many believe, dermaplaning does not encourage the abnormal growth of hair.  If the hair is soft, light and furry it will not grow back thick, coarse and dark.

For the past 19 years I have been shaving my face and the faces of those who seek my expertise. I will continue to offer this treatment for many years to come.

Tags: annapolis, cosmetic skin care, dermaplaning, dermatology, maryland, md, skin care, skin treatments

The cold winter weather is here. It won’t be long before low humidity, cool temperatures, wind, and indoor heat take its toll and cause the skin to become dry, chapped, and flaky, which will cause the skin to look pale and dull, accentuating lines and wrinkles. It may feel rough and itch. Certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea may worsen.

There are many things you can do to lessen the wrath of winter weather on your skin.

* Drink plenty of water
* Consume caffeine and alcohol in moderation
* Eat a diet rich in Essential Fatty Acids
o EFA’s are found in whole grains, nuts, seeds, olives, avocados, cold pressed oils, and cold- water fish such as wild salmon.
* A vaporizer or humidifier in the bedroom
o This helps to reestablish the moisture levels in the respiratory tract and eyes as well as the epidermal layers of the skin.
* Baths and showers should be warm, not hot and of short duration.
o When taking a bath, bath oils can be added to bath water to help further moisturize the body.
o Body oils, lotions and creams should be applied directly to the skin immediately after the bath or shower.
* Have regular professional skincare treatments.
o Gently removing the dead surface layer (with a Vibraderm treatment) increases product penetration and improves the skins ability to better absorb topically applied products.
o Oxygen therapy treatments are incredibly moisturizing and soothing after a professional exfoliation.
o LED light as well as micro-current treatments gently encourage cell turn over, stimulate collagen synthesis, as well as aid in product penetration.
o Medications, specialty products may be indicated.
o Treatments such as broadband light (IPL) will help eliminate exacerbations of Rosacea, broken blood vessels and brown discolorations.

Don’t be fooled by the colder weather, the sun is still a danger to all exposed skin. It is especially important to remember during times of play and enjoyment of wintertime sports the sun’s light intensifies as it reflects off snow. Add low humidity, wind and high altitudes and you can get a whopping sun/wind burn. Cover as much exposed skin as possible and don’t forget to use sun block!

Flying somewhere this winter?

Before the flight, cleanse the skin and use a mild scrub followed by an appropriate moisturizer.

During the flight, spritz the face with mineral water frequently, drink 8 ounces of water for every hour in flight, and avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they are very dehydrating.  Moisturizing eye drops help to prevent dry, scratchy eyes and using a lip ointment will help to avoid dry, cracked lips.

Your aesthetician is an expert in helping you choose appropriate treatments in the treatment room and will assist you in choosing the appropriate after treatment home care. Products containing growth factors, DNA repair enzymes, retinaldehyde, alpha hydroxy acids, ferulic acid, urea, hyaluronic acid, vitamins A, C, and E will assist you and support healthy winter skin.

HEALTHY SKIN IS BEAUTIFUL!

Tags: aesthetic skin care, annapolis, cosmetic skin care, dermatology, maryland, md, medical aesthetician, skin care, skin care annapolis, skin treatments

The medical aesthetician/nurse is a licensed professional that has specialized training and performs non-invasive facial aesthetic procedures. These specialists have the medical education that allows them to administer treatments under the direct supervision of a licensed medical doctor. They can be found in doctor’s offices, medical spas, skin health and wellness centers as well as cosmetic surgery centers.

A medical aesthetician has advanced knowledge in regards to clinical evaluation, product knowledge and has the expertise to treat skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and environmental damage.

There is a collaborative effort between the physician, the staff and the aesthetician to work as a team. Within the surgery center, the goal is to provide the patient with the necessary knowledge, products and treatment prior to and after cosmetic or reconstructive surgery. Optimizing skin health, speeds healing and shortens recovery time as well as assists in maintenance of results.

The most common procedures offered are; vibradermabrasion, LED light, micro current, cryotherapy, dermaplaning, oxygen therapy, chemical peels, IPL, micro laser peels, skin tightening, permanent hair reduction, vein reduction, pre and post operative care of the skin, post operative shampoo, wound care and camouflage therapy.

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE. HEALTHY SKIN IS BEAUTIFUL!

“We do not have to age like our parents. We can hold on to our vitality and look healthy well into our later years. Plastic Surgery isn’t the only way to keep the aging process at bay”.  Dr. Nicholas Perricone, M.D.

Tags: annapolis, chemical peels, Cosmetic Medical Skincare, ipl, maryland, md, medical aesthetician, Medical Aesthetics, oxygen therapy, skin care, skin tightening

The dictionary defines beauty as “the quality or aggregate of qualities in a person or thing that gives pleasure to the senses or pleasurably exalts the mind or spirit.” “The combination of qualities that make something pleasing and impressive to listen to or touch or especially to look at.” “Personal physical attractiveness, especially with regard to the use of cosmetics and other methods of enhancement.”

So what can you do to make yourself beautiful?
Certainly the way you see yourself has every thing to do with radiant beauty. When you caringly look in the mirror and you love who and what you see that thought creates positive chemistry. Those positive chemicals are then sent surging throughout the body.

So how do we get to the “I love you” state of mind?
We can start by eating GOOD food that has not been altered by chemicals, genetically modified or irradiated. Eliminate processed foods and sugar. Take supplements (I’m taking a great one called life pak nano). Drink pure water preferably out of glass bottles.

Enjoy exercise. Include stretching, cardio strengthening and muscle toning daily. I walk a mile as the sun comes up. I carry five-pound weights in my hands while listening to my favorite podcast, Morning Coach. My routine motivates me, I get my exercise and it positively gets my day going. Create quiet time, breathe and reflect. Get adequate rest. Avoid tobacco in all forms. Limit sun exposure and practice sun safety. Exposure to small amounts of full spectrum light are needed daily to keep bones strong and the mind healthy. Mineral makeup is a great way to protect your skin from the environment.

Minerals are healthy for the skin, provide a SPF 20-30 and do not clog pores. Minerals are lightweight and have an amazing capacity to conceal flaws. It is important to use the right color. A trained makeup artist can assist you in making the right choice and teach you application technique. Establish a home care routine for face and body using great skincare products appropriate for your skin type. A trained medical aesthetician will get a history and can recommend products and treatments that will actually make a difference. There are many in office clinical treatments such as Botox, line fillers, LASER, BBL, LED, Vibraderm microdermabrasion, microcurrent, oxygen therapy and chemical peels to improve the texture, color and health of your skin. Any of the above by themselves can take years off. If you should choose cosmetic surgery, pre operative care would accelerate healing and will help maintain improvements.

You are never too old and it is never too late to be the best you can be.
There is no better time than now to undo the ravages of time and neglect.
Love the skin you are in Invest in your self. You are worth it. Healthy Skin is Beautiful!

Tags: annapolis, botox, chemical peels, healthy skin, maryland, md, microdermabrasion

How does one get and maintain healthy, radiant, beautiful skin? Beautiful skin is genetically inherent as well as a by product of managing life style behaviors and making healthy choices such as a well balanced diet, appropriate vitamin and mineral supplementation, a liter of water for every 50 pounds of body weight, 6-8 hours of sleep a night, cardiovascular and muscle strength training at least 3 times a week, avoid cigarette smoke, limit alcohol and caffeine intake, and avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. It is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology that all age groups wear sun protective clothing and a sunscreen that blocks UVA as well as UVB rays with a SPF 15 or greater.

As for repairing the damage we have many choices. We can choose to apply prescription medications and / or cosmeceuticals. We can also intervene with ablative and non ablative aesthetic medical procedures such as LASER, IPL, Radio Frequency, Infra Red, Micro-current, LED Therapy, Oxygen Therapy, Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion or better yet Vibradermabrasion with Vibrafusion.

The Vibraderm Skin station is used in the procedure called Vibradermabrasion with Vibrafusion. Vibradermabrasion with vibrafusion is far superior to its microderm predecessors. The Vibraderm tool features a patented vibrating hand piece that holds an abrasive, stainless steel paddle. Vibradermabrasion gently and efficiently removes the dull, rough, discolored outer layers of damaged skin without crystals, suction or trauma. The vibration has been clinically proven to stimulate muscle fiber and the superficial vascular system, promote the production of new collagen, improve the structure of existing collagen and will not break fragile capillaries.

After exfoliation vibration allows for a more even and deep penetration of applied product and makes any light based therapy 30% to 50% more effective. A Vibraderm with Vibrafusion of the face, neck and the décolleté / chest takes about 20 minutes. An entire body exfoliation/infusion may take up to an hour, depending on the size of the body. Anyone with skin can have a Vibraderm. The skin looks and feels amazing after the first treatment. Better yet a “Boot Camp” involves a treatment every 7 to 10 days for 5 consecutive treatments and is combined with a skin type appropriate home care kit. A “Boot Camp” will yield amazing results without pain or recovery time and will most certainly help you with your goal of healthy beautiful skin.

Tags: aesthetic skin care, annapolis, chemical peels, cosmetic skin care, maryland, md, Vibradermabrasion, vibrafusion