This new formulation is, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is an oil-soluble form of Vitamin C, which is key in the formulation as it allows the product to penetrate deeper into the epidermis, as opposed to aqueous (water based) formulas. Human skin is both lipid and aqueous, therefore in order for a product to adequately penetrate it also needs to mimic this same composition or the skin rejects the product and we do not receive the full benefit. Many Vit C Serums also contain Vit E (Alpha Tocopherol) to create a serum that has a lipid ingredient. The problem with this combination is that Vit E is known to cause signifiant blackheads in many patients and therefore not an ideal formulation.

So, what does Vitamin C actually DO for our skin? It increases collagen levels, reduces melanin production (which causes brown spots), brightens skin, and actually repairs the effects of UV exposure and other environmental damage.

According to Epilution.com, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate also has the ability to stimulate the skin to produce glycosaminoglycans, natural moisturizers that allow skin to absorb moisture from the body itself.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is considered a mild version of Vitamin C, and also remains stable in air and water for up to 18 months, allowing it to serve as a long-lasting antioxidant…this is HUGE! How many of you have purchased a Vit C serum, only to have it turn dark brown after a couple weeks due to rapid oxidation?

Because this ingredient is significantly more effective in lower concentrations than traditional Vitamin C, it has also been found to be gentler and work in some people who are resistant to ascorbic acid (Natural-Skin-Care-Info.com).

According to a study published in Dermatologic Surgery entitled “Double-blind, half-face study comparing topical vitamin C and vehicle for rejuvenation of photodamage,” Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate “penetrates directly into the epidermis and dermis, acting both as an antioxidant and a direct stimulant of new collagen,” unlike other ascorbic acids, which are released into the stratum corneum and protect the skin only as an antioxidant. Significant improvement was found when patients applied a 7% concentration of Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate with a 10% concentration of ascorbic acid and saw a decrease in visible photoaging and increased collagen production, thanks to the delivery and penetration abilities of Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate.

This new formula can be found in Revision Skin Care’s Vit C 30% serum and Rejuva MD’s Vit C’s. For more information, contact Barbie WInterbottom at Advanced Aesthetics in Tampa, FL, 813.251.5772

Ever wondered what all those really long words mean listed on the label of your skin care products? It’s important to understand what you are putting on your skin so that you are sure the products you use are targeting your skin care needs and not making them worse. The list below is not a complete list of everything contained in skin care ingredients, but it is a good start and certainly includes many of the ingredients used in todays anti-aging products.

Allantoin – A botanical extract from comfrey root. Medical grade allantoin, is a proven cell-healing agent that stimulates healthy tissue formation. It also helps promote the repair of photo damage and reduces UV induced inflammation. 


Antioxidants – Ingredients which help the body resist free radicals that damage the body and prematurely age the skin. Different antioxidants target different areas of the skin to accomplish different tasks. It is believed that some antioxidants may hold the key to stimulating fibroblast activity to repair the dermis. 

 


Avobenzone – This synthetic sunscreen ingredient (also known as Parsol 1789 and Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane) can protect against the entire range of the sun’s UVA rays. 
 


Bambusa Vulgaris Extract (Bamboo Extract) – A highly effective antioxidant complex that helps minimize and control wrinkles, with natural anti-inflammatory properties. 


Bisabolol – A botanical extract derived from Chamomile or Yarrow known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits. 


Caffeine – Topical application results in mild constriction of blood vessels and subsequent decreases in blood flow, which aids in diminishing dark circles under the eye area.

Carrot Polypeptides (Daucus Carota Sativa Root) – A naturally derived form of Vitamin A. Promotes rapid utilization and absorption of Vitamin A. Supports Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition to protect against collagen destruction. Potent antioxidant.

Cucumber Fruit Extract (Cucumis Sativus) – Cools and refreshes the skin and has anti-inflammatory and skin tightening properties. 


Crosslinked Sodium Hyaluronate – Purified, highly potent form of Hyaluronic Acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the fluids surrounding cells and tissues. Hyaluronic Acid is found in abundance in young skin, and becomes depleted with age. Loss of Hyaluronic Acid contributes to loss of elasticity, sagging and wrinkling of the dermis and epidermis. Crosslinked Sodium Hyaluronate is topical version of one of the most widely acclaimed wrinkle fillers. It delivers 4-5 times more hydration than Hyaluronic Acid, and represents a true breakthrough in technology. Combined with other actives, it is unparalleled in both attracting and binding humectants and moisture to the skin. It ´s extremely potent in adding volume lost by the aging process – temporarily smoothing out facial lines and wrinkles. The inclusion of this ingredient will have an immediate and visible effect on the skin. 
 


Dimethicone – OTC ingredient with a breathable barrier bolsters skin´s natural defenses. Creates a two-way “zone of inhibition” that prevents the entry of harmful external irritants and potential environmental skin-agers and prevents the exit of vital moisture. Due to its ability to remain present, active and effective for extended periods of time, Dimethicone puts skin in heightened state of preparedness against unexpected factors that can compromise skin´s health and well-being. It also smoothes and heals.

Emu Oil (Dromiceius Oil) – ALSO POTENT SOURCE OF EFA´S – This highly moisturizing, natural skin softener has rejuvenating properties and has been shown to help reduce the depth and length of fine lines and wrinkles. It is non-greasy and highly penetrating. It is also non-comedogenic (does not clog pores), non-irritating and gentle for all skin types. It is also an effective anti-inflammatory.

Essential Fatty Acids – EFAs – Natural components of skin which help to make up the outer layer. They help protect the body against oxidative damage. EFA´s form basic building blocks of body fats and cellular membranes. Topical EFA´s improve skin´s water retention and help “water-proof” the skin. If your skin is dry, prone to inflammation, and frequently dotted with white heads and black heads, you may be lacking essential fatty acids, nutrients that are crucial to the production of skin´s natural oil barrier. Without an adequate supply of EFA´s, the skin produces a more irritating form of sebum, or oil, which can result in skin problems.

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) – The ultimate cell regenerators. These marine-derived complex proteins help support collagen structure and increase skin´s elasticity. 
 


Green Tea Leaf Extract (Camellia Sinensis) – A super antioxidant with many health and healing benefits. 


Homosalate – A recognized sunscreen that filters out UVB rays, which do their damage at the cellular level. 


Licorice Extract (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) – Extracted from the roots of the Licorice plant, it is used topically as a natural skin lightener and anti-inflammatory.

Evening Primrose Root Extract – One of the family of essential fatty acids, which form the basic building blocks of cell membranes. When used as a topical ingredient, Evening Primrose Oil has moisturizing and softening effects.

Octinoxate and Octisalate – Sunscreens used to protect skin primarily from the sun´s UVB rays: the longer wavelength “burning” rays. 


Peptides – Proteins are long chains of amino acids. Peptides are short chains of amino acids which serve as “messengers” that regulate various functions in the body and on the skin. Different peptides have different functions: some activate hormonal activity, others antibiotic activity, still others activate wound healing and skin repair.

Palmitoyl Oligopeptide (Ceramide-2) – Independent studies have shown that Ceramide-2 enhances the production of collagen and GAGs and supports the growth of matrix and connective tissues. 


Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide 7 – A powerful anti-inflammatory that helps promote tissue regeneration resulting in normalization of damaged skin. Skin looks and “acts” younger renewing its strength against photo aging and environmental damage.

Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract – Contains vital amino acids and proteins necessary for the production of collagen and elastin. It also fights free radicals, thus helping to prevent new wrinkles from forming. 


Punica Granatum Extract (Pomegranate) – An excellent external astringent for oily complexions. In addition, recent studies cite it as a potent antioxidant. Pomegranate Extract contains several polyphenols and anthocyanidins (pigment that gives certain fruits their dark red colors) that are said to have a higher antioxidant activity than that of red wine and green tea.

Resveratrol – A plant extract from the stalks and stems of the vine. It provides a natural defense mechanism and is a leading anti-oxidant. 100% of the benefits are released into the skin helping to defend against UVA/UVB exposure. It also reduces irritation and puffiness. 


Retinol – This is a derivative of vitamin A and is the active ingredient in found in several important prescription skincare products such as Retin-A and Renova. Retinol is proven to improve mottled skin pigmentation, skin texture, tone and color, enhance skin hydration and help decrease fine lines and wrinkles.

Saccharomyces Lysate Extract – A derivative of yeast, this ingredient helps foster cell respiration.

Salicylic Acid – Often referred as beta hydroxy acid (BHA) – A multifunctional ingredient with a multitude of properties – including anti-microbial — that address many systemic causes of blemishes. It also improves collagen production.

Sodium Dehydroacetate – Made from organic salt. It is used to fight bacteria and fungi on the skin. 


Sorbitol – A humectant found in berries, grapes, plums, and pears. Often used in place of glycerin as a moisturizing agent in topical skincare. 


Tricontanyl PVP – A film-forming agent used to improve water resistance properties and enhance SPF properties. 


Vitamin B (Panthenyl and Panthenyl Ethyl Ether) – A moisturizing agent for skin care. Also aids in tissue repair. 


Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Sodium Ascrobyl Phosphate) – Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin. Unlike most mammals, humans do not have the ability to make their own vitamin C. Therefore, we must obtain vitamin C through our diet. Vitamin C is required for the synthesis of collagen, an important structural component of skin. Vitamin C is also a highly effective antioxidant. Even in small amounts vitamin C can protect indispensable molecules in the body. Vitamin C also helps promote healing and minimizes hyperpigmentation by reducing melanin production. Researchers attribute Vitamin C to helping reverse existing damage deep within the skin and may also give the skin a boost in natural resistance to UVA/UVB damage. In addition, Vitamin C helps regenerate Vitamin E in the skin, enabling it to sustain its antioxidant protection.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate – Stable form of super potent Vitamin C. Shown to increase collagen by 50% in vitro studies. Promotes whitening/lightening of dark circles and counteracts hyperpigmentation. Offers extremely potent antioxidant protection.

Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) – Considered an antioxidant superstar. Vitamin E is a lipid-soluble vitamin (meaning it likes fat better than water) that when applied topically to skin provides significant antioxidant protection against ultraviolet rays. It combats free radical damage and protects from the adverse effects of oxidative stress including photo aging. Vitamin E also enhances moisturization and minimizes cell damage caused by inflammation.

Vitamin F (Linoleic Acid) – An essential fatty acid (EFA) which has emollient, water binding, and antioxidant properties for skin.

Yeast Extract – Comprised of a complex mixture of proteins, sugars and amino acids, it is an excellent humectant which may enhance the rate of cell turnover. It also helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by working to block melanin synthesis, revitalizes skin with moisture while it fights dryness and restores elasticity to skin.

Latisee Logo

I have been faithfully using my Latisse every other night and am seeing great results. It seems as though overnight, I see my lashes getting darker and thicker. I noticed the length increasing over the past few weeks, but the pigment and thickness seems sudden.
Understand, Latisse directs the user to use
the product each night, however, I find that nightly is too much for as I start to experience dry scratchy eyes. I have found that using the product every other night is just fine for me and I am still seeing great results.

I am also not using the applicator included in the package. I have chosen to use a very small eyeliner brush, and simply dampen the brush with the Latisse product,
just enough to feel the product dampen lash line of my upper lids without dripping.

By using minimal product I decrease the chance of the product dripping or rolling to areas I DON’T want lashes or hair to grow, and increasing the longevity of my supply. I understand why the manufacturer’s, Allergan (the makers of Botox and Latisse), instruct users to utilize a new applicator for each eye each night and one drop for each eye (FDA requirements), however, I have found my system to be working beautifully and delivering great results.

Attached (to the right)are photos of my lashes from October 27, 2009, I had been using

October 27, 2009

I apologize for the picture not being super defined, was having camera issues! Notice the thickness and darkness of the pigment.

Below are new pics taken today, November 17, 2009. You can see thicker, darker and longer lashes! I have no mascara on, and no flash on the camera.

November 17, 2009

November 17, 2009

I am very pleased with my progress so far and welcome your questions, comments and testimonials, I would love to know if the product is working as well for you!

The Jack Frost collection really shows us how to create the light frosty look.

Jack Frost, light frosty holiday eye

The beauty of this look is that the shimmer is subtle and not overdone. Be careful when using frost eyeshadows so the frost doesn’t become opaque and overbearing. You want to show off your beautiful eyes, not the silver shimmer of the shadow. Sheer shimmer, lightly layered colors and a striking liner make this look perfect for day or night.

These colors look beautiful on light eyes, but are complimentary on any eye color. The same affect can be achieved using gold tones as well…again, remembering to be light handed and use sheer shimmer, not heavy sparkle or too much of anything.

How to:
1. Be sure the eye is prepped so there is an even skin tone across the lid. You can do this with a light shadow primer, or simply a light stippling of your foundation across the eyelid, followed by a dusting of matte powder to set the shadow.
2. Lightly dust the lightest color, shown in this example, Spark is the color name over the entire upper lid (be careful that the color doesn’t land on the cheeks and too much under the eye)
3. Next, use a slightly deeper shade over the lower lid, in this example, Moss
4. Using a blending brush, with no color, lightly blend the shades at the crease so there is a seamless transition between the darker and lighter sections.

Full array of eyeshadows made by Orglamix

YSL Volume Effet Faux cils - mascara

You will notice in this picture that there is a little shimmer under the eye, which is beautifully done here. Be careful not to overdo this, it is a hint of shimmer, and in this case looks like they used the darker Moss color, and not the lightest color.

To complete this look, I recommend choosing a light blush for a wintery flushed look and a shimmery soft pink on the lips.

Go ahead and practice before the big event, make the look uniquely your own and remember to have fun!!! You can find the eyeshadows used here, liner and other great mineral makeup at Orglamix.

Finding the right balance of oil inhibiting products and proper hydration is delicate, but it can be achieved. First, identifying if you truly have oily skin is important. Sometimes, as adults we are so used to treating our skin as we did in our teenage years, using products that simply strip the skin of all oils, even those necessary for balance, that we cause an overproduction of oil. Simply using age appropriate products can help change this dynamic. Partnering with a skin care professional to help you determine if you have oily skin is also important.

Signs of true oily skin are large pores across the majority of the face, often across the cheek area and even extending to the ear. Other signs are consistent congestion of the skin and often a high number of porphyrins (bacteria found in the pores).
Here are a few steps to finding that perfect balance:
1. Use a gel based cleanser twice each day, along with a gentle exfoliation like the Clarisonic Face Brush . A gel based cleanser containing salycilic acid is even better, but be sure you replace needed hydration with an appropriate moisturizer, like SkinCeuticals Renew Overnight Oily, which is made for oily skin. Even though it is made for night use, it is light enough to use daily under makeup, etc.

SkinCeuticals Renew Overnight Oily

Absence Oil Control Primer

Starting Up Face

Typically, as the winter months approach, the days are shorter, the temperature drops, the air is drier and the holidays have us running in circles and often eating and drinking a lot more than our normal patterns. All of these factors can contribute to changes in our bodies, which are reflected in our skin. So…what should we do?

First, although it may seem counter-intuitive, exfoliating frequently will stave off that dry flaky “winter” skin. Exfoliating can be done in a number of different ways both chemically and manually. Chemical exfoliation includes acid peels, such as glycolic, lactic, mandelic and azaelic and even daily moisturizers containing AHA’s (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHA’s (beta hydroxy acids). Acid peels, performed by a professional on a routine basis can lighten, brighten and re-texturize skin and even help undo the sun damage received during the summer months. Microdermabrasion and the fabulous Clarisonic Skin care brush are forms of manual exfoliation.

Clarisonic in available colors

Secondly, applying an appropriate moisturizer to hydrate and nourish the skin is a must. Exfoliating without proper hydration can cause extreme sensitivity and irritation. However, when an appropriate moisturizer is used, the results can be fantastic. Look for a moisturizer containing Alpha Lipoic Acid, Alpha Tocopherol (Vit. E) or Hyaluronic Acid. These ingredients will plump and hydrate the skin.

Lastly, don’t forget the sunscreen! Using an effective sunscreen everyday is the single most important treatment you can do for yourself. Look for a sunscreen containing at least 4% or more of at least one or more of the following ingredients; Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Octinoxate, Avebenzone, Homosalate and Octisalate. A thorough listing of sunscreens, ingredients and more can be found at on the EPA website.

It’s important to know that the skin is the largest organ of the human body and should be treated as such. Just as we take care of ourselves through eating lot’s green leafy vegetables, exercising and drinking plenty of water to ensure our internal health, we also need to care and protect our skin on the outside to keep that healthy glow.

First of all, BOTOX® and BOTOX® Cosmetic are the same product simply marketed to consumers through different marketing channels of Allergan, the parent company that manufactures Botox. So, what IS Botox?

BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection, is a sterile, vacuum-dried purified
botulinum toxin type A, produced from fermentation of Hall strain Clostridium botulinum type A grown in a medium containing casein hydrolysate, glucose, and yeast extract, intended for intramuscular use. It is purified from the culture solution by dialysis and a series of acid precipitations to a complex consisting of the neurotoxin, and several accessory proteins. The
complex is dissolved in sterile sodium chloride solution containing Albumin Human and is sterile filtered (0.2 microns) prior to filling and vacuum-drying. All this very technical info can be found on the Allergan website at www.botoxcosmetic.com .

How does it work?
Botox is mixed (or diluted) with saline and then injected into the belly of the muscle. Once injected it rests on the muscle receptor and blocks the impulse to contract the muscle sent by the brain. The inhibition of the muscle contraction is what causes the lines and wrinkles to soften and smooth out over time. It can take up to 14 days for botox to take full affect, while most people see results in 5-10 days and the results last up to 3 months. Although some individuals may metabolize the product faster thus the result does not last as long and others may metabolize is slower, prolonging their result beyond the typical 3 months.

Patient squinting before Botox injections

Patient squinting after Botox injections (14 days post injections)

other questions often asked include:
1. Does it hurt?
Not really. If you feel anything, you may feel a slight sting at the injection site, but it lasts only a few seconds. If you are very concerned about pain, ask your physician to apply a topical numbing el for 15-20 minutes prior to your treatment.

2. If I do it once and I don’t do it again, will I look MORE wrinkles than before I started?
NO! Absolutely not. Actually, you will only look better and eventually go back to the way you looked before. Understanding how wrinkles are formed and how Botox helps improve wrinkles is important. Wrinkles between the eyes, crows feet, forehead and around the mouth are caused by repeated muscle contractions. So, by injecting Botox and inhibiting or stopping these contractions all together, the treated areas have a chance to relax and smooth out.So, while Botox is in effect the tissue in the treated areas is not contracting and therefore not contributing to the wrinkles and lines. If you decide not to repeat your Botox treatment (although I don’t know why you wouldn’t!) the previously treated area will stay smooth for some time and eventually once you make the expressions and contract the muscles again, the original lines and wrinkles will probably return as they were prior to the treatment.

3. Will I look scared or surprised all the time?
Well, that depends on the skill of the injector. You should look natural and relaxed. It is important to stress to the injector what result you are looking for so he or she can ensure you receive YOUR desired result.

4. How much is it?
Botox treatments can vary depending on geography and injector skill and experience. Most injectors charge per unit, and the unit cost varies anywhere between $12.00-$18.00/unit. Although I have heard of a few Plastic Surgeons charging $26./unit. You should plan to receive 25 units per area, so at an average of $14./unit, that’s about $350 per area.

Another practice is to charge a flat rate per area, and this can range from $250-$500/area. I prefer the per unit fee, as I want to know what I am receiving.

So, why the variance in pricing? There are many reasons, but primarily it is market demand and skill/education level of the injector. Physicans often charge slightly higher rates than PA’s or ARNP’s. Ask if there are any specials running and definitely ask for the Botox® Cosmetic Benefits Program. This program is offered directly from Allergan, the manufacturer of Botox (and Latisse) and they send you gifts and specials and great reminders, etc.

5. How do I choose an injector?
Do your research!!! Price alone should NOT be your deciding factor. Ask around to your friends and folks in the community. Injectors who are great, typically have great reputations and those who are not great, typically do NOT have great reputations. Ask the injector to map your face and explain to you exactly where they will inject and what result they expect to achieve. It is also ok to ask the injector how long they have been working with Botox and what areas they commonly treat. Advanced injectors are skilled at treating ALL facial areas including the mouth, under eye, jowls, frown lines, and the neck whereas those with basic skills may only inject the forehead and glabellar (between the eyebrows) areas.

6. How long does the procedure take?
The actual treatment is typically very quick 15 minutes or so. However, if it is your first visit to this injector, you will want to establish a rapport and ask him or her to map your face and discuss any questions you may have, so be sure to prepare yourself with questions and ASK them!

7. Is Botox safe?
YES, yes and YES! Botox has been used for 20+ years in medicine for treating migraines and muscle spasms. It was introduced cosmetically and approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in 1989 and 2003, although is used “off-label” frequently. Injecting Botox® Cosmetic anywhere other than the glabellar is considered off-label use. The following link outlines significant detail about Botox and is found on the FDA website. http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/103000s5109s5210lbl.pdf

Please send me questions you may have regarding Botox or other injectable treatments…soon I will be covering fillers of all kinds including, Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, Juvederm Ultra, Evolence, Radiesse, Sculptra and more.

You will notice how the spots are starting to break up, sort of look like pepper or coffee grounds (some folks say). I sped up the process by using Retin-A every other night to speed up the exfoliation process.

At this point, the warm sensation has passed, and I have to be careful not to pick at the spots because they become flaky. It is important to just let the skin slough off naturally, peeling the spots off can cause damage, so don’t do it!

I am careful to wear a great sunscreen everyday (as I always should!) I am pleased as it seems like a lot of the hyperpigmentation on the tops of my cheeks will be gone soon!

I have more pics to upload showing how it looks now…stay tuned!

We are asked this question all the time, and it’s funny that she has named them! Love it! There are a few things happening, causing the “chinkles”. Loss of collagen and repeated movement in that area (for example, sleeping on your side, causing that area to “scrunch” all during the night). There are a few things we recommend for treating this area.

First, think of this and treat it just like you do your face and moisturize and exfoliate daily.
1. Exfoliate every morning with a mild exfoliator
2. Use a moisturizer in the morning that contains hyalouronic acid and a sunscreen or be sure to use a sunscreen over your moisturizer
3. When you wash your face at night, wash this area too and use a moisturizer that contains a light glycolic acid. This will loosen up dead cells so in the morning when you exfoliate that dead skin will slough off more easily. So, that’s a daily routine

As far as treatments…..
1. Botox can do wonders in this area, as it will inhibit the muscle contraction causing the chinkles
2. Fractional lasers are also very effective to treat this area, I have used and highly recommend the Cynosure Affirm, it stimulates dormant collagen and really does amazing things with the skin in the treated area.

The word laser, is an acronym for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. It is important to know that each type of laser is made for a specific purpose and has a specific wavelength and therefore each laser is unique and no one single laser is appropriate for all types of treatments. For example, a laser made to remove tattoos, is not the same laser used for hair removal or facial resurfacing. Each laser has a specific target, and therefore, has a finite number of uses. Alexandrite lasers are used for hair removal & pigmentation treatments primarily, the target for this laser is pigment, which is found in dark hair and skin.

In my case, I struggle with uneven skin tone and superficial brown spots caused by sun exposure (see my before picture)

Before laser, notice pigment under left eye and on cheeks

Barbie's pics day 1 after pigmentation removal

How does it work? The laser is attracted to pigmentation, brown and black primarily. So, when the laser is fired on the skin, the energy is absorbed by the areas with brown pigmentation. Those areas will get much darker (as seen in my pics) for a short time, then they will slough off and the treated areas will be lighter and brighter. Sometimes it takes more than one treatment to remove all the pigment for an area.

So, does it hurt? No not really. Treating hyper-pigmentation with the laser does not hurt the way laser hair removal hurts. Although, the area treated will feel warm, like a sunburn for several hours after the treatment, it doesn’t hurt during the actual treatment. It is also important to protect the treated area from the sun, as this can actually cause more damage. Avoiding the sun and wearing sunscreen, even when just walking to and from the car is important.

I will post more pics and information on this treatment this week as my spots clear up. Please respond with any comments, questions or thoughts.