paloaltolasdev, Author at Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care https://paloaltolaser.com/author/paloaltolasdev/ At Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care, we’re committed to customizing treatments for every client so you achieve the results you deserve. Mon, 25 Sep 2023 19:41:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://paloaltolaser.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/palo-favicon32.png paloaltolasdev, Author at Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care https://paloaltolaser.com/author/paloaltolasdev/ 32 32 Winter Weight Battle Starts Now (and It’s Easy) https://paloaltolaser.com/coolsculpting/winter-weight-battle-starts-now-and-its-easy/ Wed, 30 Aug 2023 12:00:03 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12901 Summer is still in full swing, but soon enough many of us will be putting on extra padding for the winter—but what if that was optional? Palo Alto Laser and...

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Summer is still in full swing, but soon enough many of us will be putting on extra padding for the winter—but what if that was optional? Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care offers CoolSculpting, the original non-invasive body contouring treatment that uses no needles and boasts no downtime. However, results aren’t immediate which is why right now is the best time to start. Typically, CoolSculpting is recommended to have 3 – 6 cycles spaced one month apart. That means that if you start right now, you’ll be rocking your summer body even at the peak of winter.

CoolSculpting targets small areas of unwanted fat and “freezing” those fat cells, effectively killing them. It isn’t a weight loss procedure, but rather a sculpting treatment designed for those near or at their ideal weight but who struggle with stubborn areas of fat. When those fat cells are killed, they are metabolized and ejected by the body naturally in the weeks following the treatment. They are targeted in a vacuum-like device and then exposed to external freezing temperatures in 30-minute appointments while you sit back and relax. CoolSculpting is not painful, but can be a strange sensation. Still, clients usually scroll through their phones or read during their treatment.

It is important to remember a few things about CoolSculpting: first, you might not see the scale budge during your treatment sessions. Instead, depend on taking measurements and photos, and notice how your clothes fit. Second, CoolSculpting takes time. You will see some results about one month after your first cycle but full results appear 3 – 6 months after your final cycle. Patience is key. Finally, bear in mind that CoolSculpting is not an alternative to a healthy diet and lifestyle, but a complement to it. The fat cells killed with CoolSculpting are gone forever, but weight gain in the future can cause nearby fat cells to expand, grow, and move into the CoolSculpted area.

What Goes with CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting only addresses small areas of unwanted fat. It does not help with building muscle and does little to help with skin tightening. This means it works well with Emsculpt, which forces targeted muscles into 20,000 supramaximal contractions in just 30 minutes. In fact, you can schedule your Emsculpt and CoolSculpting sessions back-to-back. Since both are non-invasive and require no downtime, you can tackle the same (or different) areas in an hour-long session.

Studies have shown that CoolSculpting can help a little with skin tightening, but if that’s an additional issue then you deserve the best technology designed just for getting taut, youthful skin. That means Thermage FLX for many people, a revolutionary system that works to tighten skin via collagen induction therapy. It’s a one and done solution with results that last for about one year on average. Thermage FLX is most often used on the face and neck, but you can use it virtually anywhere—including where you’re getting CoolSculpting. Other options might include chemical peels, microneedling, and laser skin rejuvenation to address specific skin concerns or simply to make your CoolSculpting results the best they can be.

Is CoolSculpting for you, and which treatments should you add onto it? Find out everything you need to know during a complimentary consultation. CoolSculpting has been available for many years, making it the most popular solution for body sculpting. Suitable for adult men and women, starting this process now will ensure you have a sleeker, fitter, more slender body just in time for those holiday parties. Even better, it fits into the busiest schedules and nobody needs to know that you’re having a little “you” time. Plus, if you start now, you’ll still be able to see some results in time for any Labor Day weekend events.

CoolSculpting has been shown in clinical trials to be a safe and effective means of body contouring. Find out what thousands of people have already realized and start your cycles before the end of summer. Contact Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today to schedule your consult, or simply complete the online contact form right now for the fastest response.

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Should You Get Microneedling or Morpheus8? https://paloaltolaser.com/microneedling/should-you-get-microneedling-or-morpheus8/ Wed, 23 Aug 2023 12:00:40 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12909 Microneedling is arguably the most established aesthetician service. It was originally developed during the turn of the last century and played a large role in helping injured veterans recover from...

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Microneedling is arguably the most established aesthetician service. It was originally developed during the turn of the last century and played a large role in helping injured veterans recover from war injuries. At Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care, every provider is personally trained by Zuzana Likar to the highest standards because the skill of the microneedler is just as important as the procedure itself. Microneedling is a form of collagen induction therapy, creating tiny channels or controlled “trauma” in the skin that tells the body to flood the area with collagen. Collagen is the natural fountain of youth we all have, but we produce less of it as we age. Microneedling can counteract this limitation, but traditional microneedling requires ongoing treatments to sustain results. Most people opt for monthly sessions.

Morpheus8 uses radiofrequency (RF) alongside microneedling, making it like microneedling on steroids (the good kind). It is a form of microneedling that goes deeper than traditional methods so you get more collagen production. At the same time, it delivers radiofrequency energy, which is another proven method of collagen induction therapy. This means you get double the benefit. This means that you only need Morpheus8 every few months instead of monthly. Results from Morpheus8 are better than traditional microneedling results in numerous studies, and as an added bonus it’s much easier to fit into busy schedules.

Serums to Boost Results

Whether you choose traditional microneedling or Morpheus8, you want to take advantage of those temporary channels caused by the needles. You can always ask to add on a facial to a traditional microneedling session, but Morpheus8 is meant to be paired with various serums to boost the results. These are hand-selected by your provider based on your skin’s needs and your goals. It can be discussed during your complimentary consultation or right before your appointment. These accessory boosters are yet another reason why so many people are switching from microneedling to Morpheus8.

Just like with regular microneedling, you can also get Morpheus8 just about anywhere on the face or body. Collagen is produced throughout the body and a surge in production leads to skin that is tauter, smoother, more youthful, and glowing. Morpheus8 and microneedling can also help with light scarring and hyperpigmentation, including stubborn pigmentation problems like melasma. It can also be used in conjunction with various other treatments such as facials, chemical peels, and laser skin rejuvenation.

Beauty from the Inside Out

Many clients want to steer clear of more invasive treatments and prefer to turn back the clock and look their best through natural means. Collagen induction therapy is perhaps the most natural of all, depending wholly on the healing powers of your body to achieve your skin care goals. The boosters added at the end of your treatment might be an in-office-only treat or a medical-grade product you can purchase to continue using at home. Pairing in-office treatments like Morpheus8 with a quality at-home regimen is what it takes to take your skin to the next level.

Similar to traditional microneedling, Morpheus8 results are not immediate (though you might notice an initial glow right after the treatment). It takes about one month for the first of the collagen induction therapy results to start to show. Morpheus8 results will continue to improve for up to four months after the treatment (on average). Many clients opt for bi-annual treatments, which means your next session will be scheduled just in time for the holidays. Find out for yourself why celebrities are raving about Morpheus8 as a means to tackle signs of aging and revive skin to its plump, dewy youth.

Morpheus8 is a two in one treatment suitable for men and women of any skin tone and type. Everyone from their 20s to their 80s is an ideal candidate for this revolutionary treatment. To find out more, schedule a consultation or simply book an appointment today. Call Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care during business hours or, for the quickest response, complete the online form right now. It’s not too late in the summer to get your glow on.

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Skin Tightening Without Surgery: Thermage FLX https://paloaltolaser.com/thermage-flx-skin-tightening/skin-tightening-without-surgery-thermage-flx/ Wed, 16 Aug 2023 12:00:34 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12907 For years, the only truly effective way to tighten skin was through surgery like a facelift or eyelid lift. That’s no longer the case thanks to Thermage FLX, the next...

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For years, the only truly effective way to tighten skin was through surgery like a facelift or eyelid lift. That’s no longer the case thanks to Thermage FLX, the next generation of Thermage now available at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care. It’s important to remember that the quality of any treatment outcome is only partially dependent on the procedure itself. The skill of the provider also makes a big difference. This ensures that your Thermage FLX results are as beautiful and long-lasting as possible.

Thermage technology isn’t new, but the “FLX” aspect of it is. Years ago, we knew that Thermage was highly effective in tightening skin without the use of needles or the need for downtime, but it was also very uncomfortable and painful. FLX fixed all that, making it much more tolerable and, in turn, accessible to more clients. A numbing agent is applied 45 minutes prior to the appointment to further optimize comfort. Since, “Will it hurt?” is one of the first questions asked during consults, we want to make sure clients know that the latest Thermage FLX tech is more comfortable than ever.

How Thermage FLX Works

Thermage FLX induces collagen production to reduce lines and wrinkles anywhere on the face or body. It first debuted 20 years ago, and today we have the fourth generation of this technology. On average, results last about 12 months and you can always return for future treatments. However, given how long it lasts, Thermage FLX is considered a one and done treatment suitable for men and women of all ages. However, since it is a skin tightening treatment and not preventative, most people who consider Thermage FLX are in their 30s or 40s. It can even be a great way to delay or avoid invasive procedures like a facelift. Celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, who are committed to going non-surgical, rave about Thermage FLX results.

Just one treatment gives you smoother, tighter skin and results can continue to improve for up to six months. In some cases, results even last for years (everyone is different). Since collagen induction takes time, full results aren’t immediate but you will notice some improvement within one month of your treatment.

What to Expect with Thermage FLX

At the start of your appointment, before photos are taken, a numbing agent is applied, and the skin is cleansed. Next, a grid-like pattern is placed on the treatment site similar to a temporary tattoo. This is used to guide the provider during your session. The face and lower jawline, typical treatment sites, take about 90 minutes and includes around 900 pulses. Thermage FLX releases radiofrequency (RF) energy that heats up the deeper layers of the skin where collagen is produced—without actually harming the top layer of the skin. That heat makes the existing collagen contract, stimulates new collagen growth, and kick-starts the body’s natural healing process. Technically, Thermage FLX turns back the clock from the inside out using the healing powers of your own body.

A gel is applied during the actual treatment. With every pulse, there is a cooling sensation that follows for optimal comfort. Your provider will work with you, asking for feedback throughout the session. After the treatment, you may add on a facial or other soothing treatment to finish off. Skin might be a little pink (or not), but this is truly a no-downtime procedure so any signs of treatment will be brief and mild. You might notice right away that your skin seems a little tighter, smoother, and that the jawline is more pronounced (if you treat this area).

Thermage FLX is a proven method for reversing the signs of aging without any recovery period or risks associated with surgery. Summer is also a great time to have it done because it does not make the skin more sensitive to UV rays (though you should still have a good sunscreen regimen in order to safeguard the skin and prevent additional UV damage). It can fit into a busy schedule and you’ll start to see serious results by the end of summer. To schedule your consultation or appointment, contact Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today by calling the office or filling out the online contact form now.

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Triple Threat Summer Glowup: Botox, Fillers, and Kybella https://paloaltolaser.com/botox/triple-threat-summer-glowup-botox-fillers-and-kybella/ Wed, 09 Aug 2023 12:00:25 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12905 During the summer months, many people want to avoid treatments that can make skin hyper-sensitive to the sun such as chemical peels. That’s a smart move, and at Palo Alto...

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During the summer months, many people want to avoid treatments that can make skin hyper-sensitive to the sun such as chemical peels. That’s a smart move, and at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care we offer a variety of treatments that are summer-friendly. The triple threat of injectables can be used year-round, and if you’ve only tried one of them before it might be time to see what all three can do. First up is Botox, the gold standard in stopping wrinkles in their tracks. However, there’s a lot more to this neuromodulation.

Botox has been around for decades and works by temporarily freezing or paralyzing targeted muscles that cause lines, wrinkles, and folds. Increasingly, it has been being used by younger clients for preventative measures. If you can stop lines and wrinkles from prematurely forming—prevention bests a cure every time. Botox can also be used to produce the illusion of a fuller upper lip while masking a gummy smile. This is done via a lip flip, where small amounts of Botox are injected into the upper lip area. Results only last about three months on average since this is a very mobile area. You can also get a small lift in the brow with Botox or use it to help with excessive sweating (which tends to happen in the summer months). Botox is a go-to method for cosmetic and medical uses, and you can learn more about its benefits during a complimentary consultation.

Dermal Filler Fun

Dermal fillers are usually made of synthetic hyaluronic acid (HA), with natural HA already occurring in our bodies. HA draws moisture to the area, making it a very natural-looking filler. You can get fillers injected virtually anywhere in the face, jawline, and tops of the hands. The results last anywhere from 6 – 18 months on average depending on the type of filler, the injection site, and the number of syringes used. Today’s trend is less about getting fillers in just one area, such as the lips, and more about taking a holistic approach to dermal fillers.

Some of the most popular sites for dermal fillers are the jawline, below the eyes (in the hollows), on the temples, and in the cheeks. Dermal fillers can create volume where there never was, but more importantly they address an overlooked sign of aging: loss of volume. When we get older, we lose the good fat in our face that makes us appear young. Dermal fillers can reverse that, making them work very well with Botox. They tackle lost volume while also filling in lines and wrinkles in some instances, while Botox freezes lines and wrinkles at the muscular level.

Kybella for Youth

Anyone can have a double chin regardless of weight or size. If your double chin is caused by a pocket of fat in the submental area, Kybella can help. It requires a series of injections using a “stamping” device that delivers synthetic deoxycholic acid right to the problem area. This acid already occurs naturally in the body and literally melts away fat. You’ll see significant results one month after your first session, with improved results every session after that. Kybella can’t be a “one and done” procedure because your provider needs to be vigilant about not dissolving too much fat. Striking the right balance takes a series of injections.

However, once the fat is melted away with Kybella, it’s gone for good. You can enjoy a jawline that’s stronger, a dissolved double chin, and a younger, more slender, and healthier look. All of these injectables—Botox, fillers, and Kybella—require little to no downtime. Fillers may cause some swelling and all may cause some light bruising, but it’s nothing that will require a recovery period. Start now and end this summer looking and feeling your best. Complimentary consultations are available for all services. Schedule yours today by calling Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care or filling out the online contact form now.

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Who Should—and Shouldn’t—Dermaplane https://paloaltolaser.com/aesthetician-services/who-should-and-shouldnt-dermaplane/ Wed, 02 Aug 2023 12:00:19 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12903 Dermaplaning is a seemingly quick and easy add-on to virtually any in-office treatment and can also be a great treatment all by itself. At Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care,...

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Dermaplaning is a seemingly quick and easy add-on to virtually any in-office treatment and can also be a great treatment all by itself. At Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care, we are more than a medispa, with every provider personally trained by Zuzana Likar—because it’s not just getting matched with the right treatment that makes all the difference, it’s also the skill and knowledge of the provider. Dermaplaning uses a specialized handheld scalpel to remove debris, peach fuzz, and the very top layer of skin from the face. Technically, it’s an exfoliant, but it’s gentle enough that you can pair it with other exfoliating treatments.

One of the most popular treatments that dermaplaning is added onto is the HydraFacial. HydraFacial is a 3-in-1 treatment that exfoliates, extracts gunk from pores, and infuses the skin with hand-selected medical-grade boosters/topicals. However, HydraFacial doesn’t remove peach fuzz, which can get in the way of topicals doing their best work. If you dermaplane before you HydraFacial, you get rid of that facial hair so that skin is even smoother and softer than what is achievable with HydraFacial alone. Plus, it doesn’t add much time onto the appointment so you’re still in and out in under an hour.

Who is Dermaplaning For

Dermaplaning is an effective treatment for most men and women of any skin tone. Of course, for those who grow coarse facial hair—such as men—dermaplaning is not going to be most effective in areas where this coarse hair grows. Since it’s an exfoliant as well as a peach fuzz remover, it can be used anywhere on the face including the temples, forehead, and around the nose and eyes. Dermaplaning results, of course, are not permanent. Most people schedule a monthly dermaplaning sessions to keep the results they love.

You might also notice dermaplaning tools available in stores and online. These are not professional-grade tools and will not give you the same level of results. You may have heard that shaving your face in the shower is similar to dermaplaning, and while it isn’t usually dangerous (unless you nick yourself) it’s also not the “same” as dermaplaning. You might be able to remove facial fuzz and hair, but you’re not getting the same degree of exfoliation. In short, skip the DIY and home dermaplaning options and stick with in-office treatments that are safe, effective, and prone to give you the best results.

Dermaplaning isn’t for Everyone

Those with certain conditions may not want to dermaplane because it can make skin issues worse. This can be discussed during a complimentary consultation because severity varies person to person. However, some of the most common conditions that are not good matches with dermaplaning include PCOS, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, and those with hyper-sensitive skin. Depending on your condition and its severity, a “test area” may be conducted. If you have open wounds or lesions, as well as bleeding disorders, dermaplaning might not be the solution for you.

However, don’t worry. There are plenty of in-office treatments that can work well to treat these and a myriad of other skin conditions, and even improve them! Dermaplaning might not seem like it’s removing much superficial material, but it’s deceptively effective. That’s why it’s only recommended once per month in most cases. You don’t want to remove too much superficial layers too often or you’ll risk making your skin red, irritated, and vulnerable.

Dermaplaning in the Summer

Some people like to avoid more aggressive therapies in the summer months because of the increased exposure to UV damage. Dermaplaning is still much gentler than other treatments, such as medium-depth peels, making it a fantastic option for the summer months. Treat yourself to skin that is smoother and softer than ever before, and with dermaplaning you always leave your appointment with a glow. There is no downtime and you can immediately apply topicals (sunscreen is a must). You’ll notice your at-home skin-care regimen goes on smoother and perhaps even performs better now that the fuzz and debris isn’t in the way.

To find out more about dermaplaning or to book your consultation or appointment, call Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today or complete the online contact form now.

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Emsculpt + CoolSculpting: Your Answer for Love Handles, Muffin Top, and More https://paloaltolaser.com/coolsculpting/emsculpt-coolsculpting-answer-love-handles/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:00:44 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12781 It’s paramount to eat healthy and work out regularly. However, there are limitations to this basic healthy lifestyle—and that’s where non-invasive body contouring and sculpting come into play. Palo Alto...

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It’s paramount to eat healthy and work out regularly. However, there are limitations to this basic healthy lifestyle—and that’s where non-invasive body contouring and sculpting come into play. Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care offers both Emsculpt and CoolSculpting (along with a slew of other body sculpting options). These two treatments are the ultimate power couple, freezing away unwanted fat and building muscle in just 30-minute sessions where you sit back and relax.

CoolSculpting is the first non-invasive body contouring treatment and it’s been around for years. However, the latest CoolSculpting technology works better than ever thanks to the latest handheld devices capable of treating any area. From larger areas like the abs to small places like under the chin, you can CoolSculpt virtually any area of the body where you have stubborn fat. Still, remember that CoolSculpting isn’t a “weight loss procedure” and is best for those at or near their goal weight. If that’s you, and you just can’t get stubborn pockets of fat to move, CoolSculpting might be the answer.

Why CoolSculpting Start Now?

Yes, CoolSculpting and Emsculpt take 4 – 6 initial cycles on average for optimal results. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get started in the summer months—it just means you’ll get a head start on warding off winter weight gain. CoolSculpting requires no needles or downtime, so it won’t get in the way of your vacation plans. With each cycle, fat cells are isolated in a vacuum-like chamber, targeted with precise external freezing temperatures, and then your body’s metabolism does the rest. Results are not immediate because it takes time for those frozen fat cells to be metabolized and expelled from the body. You’ll be able to see some results about 3 – 4 weeks after your first cycle, which is best gauged with measurements and how your clothes fit. Don’t depend on the scale because it might not budge with CoolSculpting (remember, it’s not a treatment for weight loss). This is doubly true if you’re getting Emsculpt at the same time.

Emsculpt works by forcing muscles into 20,000 supramaximal contractions. Just like CoolSculpting, it takes 30 minutes per session. You can book back-to-back appointments for either of these treatments so that you can tackle multiple areas during the same booking. Also, like CoolSculpting, Emsculpt results are not immediate. Muscles take time to repair and grow. You’ll see initial results in about one month, and sessions are spaced one month apart. You can help your muscles recover and grow by eating a good amount of protein right after each cycle.

The Double Whammy of Summer Body

Gone are the days (thankfully) when getting thinner was the ultimate goal. Today, it’s all about being healthy and strong for men and women alike. CoolSculpting is a fantastic way to target fat that won’t disappear with diet and exercise alone. We’re all born with a unique number of fat cells and distribution. Emsculpt can take your strength training to the next level. Building muscle is tough for anyone, but especially as we get older and sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) sets in. Even bodybuilders will reach their limits. Emsculpt doesn’t replace strength training, but it can help you get past plateaus, and achieve strength and muscle toning that is impossible in the gym alone.

Summer months are a time when we tend to enjoy the hard work we put into our fitness in the winter and spring. If you’ve been skipping your gym sessions, Emsculpt can help bridge the gap so you sustain and build upon your current strength. And if you’re getting into strength training for the first time or after an extended break, Emsculpt sets a solid foundation for health and safety. It’s very easy for newbies to bench themselves when they start strength training. One wrong move can lead to a serious muscle tear. Emsculpt poses no such risk. Plus, like with CoolSculpting, there’s no needles or downtime (though you can expect to feel sore the next day).

Interested in learning more about CoolSculpting, Emsculpt, or any of our other sculpting procedures? Book a consultation today—complimentary consults are available for all treatments. Get in touch with Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today by calling the office or filling out the online contact form.

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Glamour Reviews Clear + Brilliant https://paloaltolaser.com/clear-brilliant/glamour-reviews-clear-brilliant/ Mon, 17 Jul 2023 12:00:26 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12779 Clear + Brilliant is the gold standard in lasers for pre-juvenation. It is consistently recommended as the go-to laser treatment for younger patients who both want to prevent premature signs...

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Clear + Brilliant is the gold standard in lasers for pre-juvenation. It is consistently recommended as the go-to laser treatment for younger patients who both want to prevent premature signs of aging while reducing those that are already present. At Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care, we recommend Clear + Brilliant for clients of any skin tone who are looking for a series of treatments requiring little to no downtime. It is also a popular laser pick for the summer months because it doesn’t render skin quite as hyper-sensitive to UV damage as more aggressive lasers. Recently, Hilary Sheinbaum with Glamour underwent her own series of treatments and shared the experience and results.

Sheinbaum mostly struggles with acne and lingering acne scars. She says that in college she had perfect skin, but once she made the move to New York City, her combination skin “went from normal to nonsense.” Multiple types of acne began popping up, including cystic acne which can be quite painful and leave scars. She moved right after college and has been in the city for five years now. Her skin has improved a little, but she still has scarring from those earlier breakouts. When she heard that Clear + Brilliant can help with texture and tone while minimizing pores, she says she “had to try it.” Even though she knew four initial sessions are typically recommended for optimal results, she signed up for only two.

Clear + Brilliant for Acne

It is important to remember that while Clear + Brilliant can help with light acne scarring, it’s not an “acne laser.” Plus, cystic acne scarring is typically deeper and more severe than scarring caused by other forms of acne. Perhaps Sheinbaum did not seek out the right laser (or her provider possibly should have nudged her in another direction). During her consultation, she says the provider recommended her to stop eating gluten while warning her about potential side effects, like temporary redness. The treatment then followed, which was around 20 minutes and Sheinbaum describes it as “fairly painless.” It began on her forehead and continued to her cheeks and chin. Sheinbaum says, “My face felt really warm, and I could feel little, mild pricks, but nothing unbearable.”

She was ready for some redness after her treatment, but was pleasantly surprised to find that it wasn’t as bad as she expected. “My face did look a bit pink—kind of like I had a sunburn—but immediately my pores looked smaller and my skin tone seemed more even.” Two hours later, the pinkness had disappeared entirely. She notes that she was even able to wear makeup two hours later.

After her second session, she points out that the results she really wanted—less acne scarring—weren’t as good as she had hoped. They had initially lessened after each treatment, but lightening did not last. “It was great to enjoy a new glow,” she says, but what she really wanted was to get rid of those cystic acne scars. Sheinbaum says, “If you have less intense acne scars and have a big event coming up that you want to prep for, it’s definitely worth trying. But if you (like me) are looking for something that’ll make marks vanish, your skin will probably need a more aggressive laser treatment than this one.”

This is not “news,” since Clear + Brilliant is not designed for severe acne scarring. The smaller pores, more even skin tone, and glow that Sheinbaum enjoyed post-treatment is exactly what this light laser is designed to achieve. It’s important that you work with a provider who listens to you and your concerns, and can then match you with the treatment (or combination of treatments) to achieve your desired results. Clear + Brilliant is a very superficial laser to revitalize skin—not tackle serious skin conditions like cystic acne scarring.

Ideally, you will schedule a consultation with an expert provider who has been expertly trained in order to create a collaborative game plan. There are plenty of lasers to help with cystic acne scarring, as well as other treatments like chemical peels and Morpheus8 microneedling. Getting the right treatment starts with selecting the right provider, and we have the professionals you need to get the results you want. Schedule your consult at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today by calling the office or completing the online contact form.

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What Happens When a Peel is Incorrectly Applied https://paloaltolaser.com/chemical-peels/what-happens-when-a-peel-is-incorrectly-applied/ Mon, 10 Jul 2023 12:00:06 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12777 In an era when everyone is looking to save time and money, the at-home cosmetic treatment is at an all-time high. However, there are some procedures and treatments you only...

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In an era when everyone is looking to save time and money, the at-home cosmetic treatment is at an all-time high. However, there are some procedures and treatments you only want to let a professional handle—like chemical peels (of any strength). Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care offers a variety of services at our medical day spa, and all providers are personally trained by Zuzana Likar. Light and medium-depth peels are a great way to quickly and evenly address a variety of skin issues from fine lines and wrinkles to dullness and brown spots. It used to be a given that getting a peel would take place in-office, but thanks to COVID and social media there is a boom of at-home treatments. In the best-case scenario, they are pointless. But worst-case scenarios can result in serious consequences.

All chemical peels use at least one chemical to literally peel away the top layer or layers of skin. Very light peels might not even cause actual peeling, but flakiness is common. Medium depth peels will (or should) definitely peel. The types of chemicals used and their strength all dictate what the peel is called. The depth is related to how many skin layers are removed. Deep peels are also an option, but are typically only for very severe skin conditions and are performed under anesthesia in an OR setting.

What Chemical Peels Treat

One of the reasons everyone loves a peel is because they are so versatile. They can handle wrinkles, scarring, laxity, and much more. Peels are evenly applied to the entire face, so even if you’re mostly concerned about brown spots from UV damage, you’ll be getting the benefits of a dewier, glowing complexion everywhere. Sometimes peels can be tried on the neck, chest, and other areas but this typically isn’t very effective. You need a certain amount of oil glands in order for peels to work, and that is only possible on the face (still, it works for some people, so you can always add on extra peels to areas besides the face and see if you’re one of the lucky few!).

Many peels require a neutralizer to be applied at a precise moment after application. Others, like TCA peels, do not. This can inspire some people to take a DIY approach—after all, if a peel self-neutralizes, what could go wrong? Peels might seem fast and easy, but it actually takes months or even years of training and experience for an aesthetician to become a skilled provider. There are risks with any procedure, but trusting a knowledgeable provider will keep you safe and achieve the best possible results.

Prepping for a Peel

Most of the at-home “peels” you see on the market are not medical-grade. This makes them much safer to self-apply, but it also means you’re not going to get the kind of results you want. After all, technically there are many chemicals that can be used for a “peel,” and that can include things like citric acid. If you really want to visibly improve your skin, you need a medical-grade peel that is only legally available in office settings.

The first step in a pre-treatment assessment is to understand your needs, goals, and any current medications. Some medications and medical issues can mean a client isn’t a good fit for a peel, but might be a great fit for alternative options like lasers. Prior to getting a peel, it’s important to stop retinol use for a set period of time, avoid the sun, and stop waxing, getting facials, exfoliating, bleaching, or undergoing laser skin rejuvenation. Those who are prone to keloids, who do not heal well, or have immunosuppression are often not good candidates for peels.

During your appointment, your aesthetician will clean the skin and apply petroleum jelly to areas around the eyes, nose and mouth that are sensitive and should not be peeled. Next, they apply the chemicals to the least delicate areas such as the forehead and cheeks, feathering the peel outward for a natural outcome. Dry swabs are on hand to wipe away tears (which are common due to the peel itself, not pain). Syringes are always on hand, full of saline in the rare instance that the peel gets into the eyes (which almost never happens in clinical settings). Finally, your provider will go over aftercare instructions—which also includes avoiding the sun and retinol medications.

People panic when something goes awry at home. A peel accidentally getting into areas like the eyes, nose, and mouth can be devastating—even with self-neutralizing peels. If you want a great and safe peel, schedule a consultation with Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care. Call the office during business hours or, for the quickest response, fill out the online contact form now.

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Botox for a Dimpled Chin: One First-Hand Account https://paloaltolaser.com/botox/botox-for-a-dimpled-chin-one-first-hand-account/ Thu, 06 Jul 2023 12:00:01 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12775 Dimpled chin lowering your self-esteem? We aren’t talking about a cute cleft or singular, youthful dimple, but rather the dimpling that comes with age and lost facial volume. Botox can...

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Dimpled chin lowering your self-esteem? We aren’t talking about a cute cleft or singular, youthful dimple, but rather the dimpling that comes with age and lost facial volume. Botox can do just about anything, including giving you back a smooth, younger-looking chin. It’s one of the most popular injectables at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care (and around the globe). Recently, Johanna Ferreira talked with PopSugar about her chin Botox experience, what it was like, and why she loves the results.

Also known as “orange-peel chin,” dimpled chins are one of the lesser talked about signs of aging. There are some topicals that claim to help, and although moisturized skin is always going to look plumper and healthier, there’s no cream that will correct chin dimpling. When the chin muscles are overactive, or are more visible due to facial volume loss, the only way to stop dimpling is by stopping muscle movement. Ferreira put off Botox in this area for years, scared that it would affect her smile (spoiler: it doesn’t). She didn’t see the dimpling in the mirror, but it started to show up more and more in selfies and other photos. She also compared it to “dimpled resting B face” whenever her mouth was closed (due to unconscious clenching). When she heard that her sister’s wedding photographer specialized in candid photos, she finally decided to do something about it.

Botox for Every Part of the Face

Ferreira was nervous because although Botox is a time-tested solution for lines and wrinkles, there’s not a lot of online accounts about Botoxing the chin. However, Botox is one of the safest in-office procedures. Her doctor explained to her that “an orange-peel chin is the term used to describe a textural change with grooves, dimples, and a pitting appearance of the chin when you are puckering or sometimes resting … the dimpling is caused because part of this muscle is superficial and inserts into the skin of the chin.” In other words, even quite young people can have orange-peel chin, but we are more inclined towards it as we get older.

Ferreira needed just two injection spots on her chin for the best results. It’s critical that only the mentalis muscle is injected with Botox, rather than adjacent muscles, otherwise smiles can be compromised. This is yet another reason to only see a skilled injector for Botox or fillers, such as those at our clinic that are all personally trained by Zuzana Likar. Results from any Botox injection are not immediate, but appear within about 4 – 7 days post-injection. Results are also temporary, lasting 3 – 6 months on average. However, Ferreira noticed some improvement after just one day. One week later, she found her chin to be totally dimple-free and smooth. “The best part was I looked just like myself,” she says, “only without the dimpled chin.”

Chin Up

As a bonus, Botox in the chin is one of the most affordable sites because relatively little Botox is needed. One year later, Ferreira says she maintains her Botox sessions because it has “greatly improved” her chin dimples. Even when the Botox starts to wear off (at about four months for her), the dimpling comes back slowly and subtly. She’s proud to say, “I’m fortunate to be at a place with my self-esteem and body image where there is literally nothing else on my face that bothers me.” She also appreciates taking a preventative approach to chin dimpling, as Botox is known for weakening muscles that cause unwanted dimpling, lines, or wrinkles. When people are young, dimples and wrinkles are dynamic. But as we age, they become more static. Botox can help delay that process.

Ferreira encourages anyone with the same issue to consider Botox. “When I experienced how simple and safe my Botox procedure was—along with my natural-looking results—I began reframing my perception of beauty injectables,” she says. If you’re interested in finding out more about Botox to treat any dimpling, lines, wrinkles, or creases, contact Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today by calling the office or filling out the online contact form.

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What Makes HydraFacial “Elite?” https://paloaltolaser.com/hydrafacial/what-makes-hydrafacial-elite/ Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:00:45 +0000 https://paloaltoolddev.wpengine.com/?p=12773 You probably know HydraFacial—it’s the revolutionary 3-in-1 facial that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts, and infuses skin with medical-grade topicals. It has been one of the most popular treatments at Palo Alto...

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You probably know HydraFacial—it’s the revolutionary 3-in-1 facial that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts, and infuses skin with medical-grade topicals. It has been one of the most popular treatments at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care since it debuted. However, HydraFacial Elite takes the technology you love to the next level. Get remarkable results, all backed by science and countless clinical trials. Now, HydraFacial is even more customizable so you can choose from a variety of enhancements and add-ons for your unique skin.

Our skin is the largest organ we have and it needs routine TLC. HydraFacial can give you the pampering your skin deserve regardless of your skin tone or type. Now “Elite,” you can tackle more targeted concerns than ever before. The HydraFacial Elite “Expect Everything” campaign perfectly sums up the procedure. Now, HydraFacial Elite offers technology-enabled personalization featuring state-of-the-art protocols that let your provider create regimens with an advanced interface. Remember that the skill of your provider is just as important as the treatment itself.

Get More of the Treatment You Love

More treatment options are available with HydraFacial Elite, including the Keravive scalp treatment and the “Perk” option for lips and eyes. Your scalp needs pampering just like the rest of your skin, and lack of attention in this area can lead to dryness, flakes, and ultimately hair that isn’t as healthy as it could be (remember, great hair starts from the roots). Perks let you get the HydraFacial results you adore in delicate areas that had to be avoided with the original HydraFacial. Considering how important the eyes and lips are, this is a must.

Contrary to the name, you can actually get a HydraFacial Elite treatment virtually anywhere on the body. Add on the latest lymphatic therapy and LED light therapy, which is now available with the Elite technology, and there’s no stopping your summer skin care game. Plus, there are now more boosters than ever before so you can be sure to get medical-grade topicals designed just for your skin type, concerns, and goals. From fine lines and wrinkles to brown spots and laxity, HydraFacial Elite can improve it all.

Summer Skin Care isn’t Over

We might be in the middle of summer, but it’s never too late to upgrade your skin care game. HydraFacial Elite is a favorite summertime treatment because it requires no prep work, no needles, and no downtime. Wearing sunscreen year-round is critical no matter what, and right now is a great time to upgrade to medical-grade sunscreen. However, unlike some other treatments like peels and lasers, HydraFacial Elite doesn’t make your skin more vulnerable to UV rays than it already is. Every HydraFacial Elite treatment includes the application of medical-grade sunscreen at the end of your appointment so you leave protected and can try out a silky sunscreen option before committing to an entire bottle.

The CEO of HydraFacial says they are “thrilled” to be advancing their skin health platform and can’t wait to share the clinical findings that outline just how well the system works—“providing even more ways to personalize the HydraFacial treatment experience and offering endless possibilities for every skin type.” HydraFacial Company is renowned for their collaborative approach, which is why you can enjoy a variety of boosters from various companies when you opt for a HydraFacial Elite treatment. According to the latest HydraFacial Elite study, participants get skin that is 50 percent smoother after their treatment when combined with an ablative fractional laser (compared to “just” getting a fractional laser treatment). Pairing HydraFacial Elite with IPL yields 30 percent extra reductions in brown spots compared to getting IPL alone.

HydraFacial Elite is gentle enough to couple with nearly any other in-office treatment, but can also give you gorgeous results by itself. Mixing and matching treatments has long been a great approach to compounding results (and appointment times!). Are you ready to turn back the clock, amp up the glow, and get your best summer skin ever? Contact Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today to schedule your consultation, where Zuzana Likar personally trains each aesthetician. Call the office during business hours or fill out the online contact form now.

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