Have you noticed your lips losing volume as you grow older? Are you struggling to muster a genuine smile due to a lack of confidence in the overall appearance of your lips? If so, you could benefit from Juvederm Volbella lip injections. This long-lasting dermal filler injectable can create plump, smooth, youthful lips in minutes with zero downtime. At Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville in Jacksonville Beach, FL, we offer a wide range of Juvederm dermal filler products to meet all of your aesthetic needs.

What Is Volbella? 

Volbella is one of several top-quality Juvederm dermal filler products designed to rejuvenate and lift your skin without surgical intervention. The Juvederm family of fillers contain hyaluronic acid and small amounts of lidocaine to provide effortless, smoothing volume with a pain-free injection process. Each strategic injection can fill and lift the skin, addressing a host of common concerns and allowing you to achieve your desired results instantly. Even better, final results from these injections can last months without follow-up or touchup appointments.

A normal appointment takes less than half an hour to complete, giving you the flexibility you need to fit this treatment into any schedule. The recovery period is minimal for most patients, and you can begin enjoying your new results immediately after your very first treatment. Thanks to its non-invasive nature and body-friendly formula, this filler is considered safe and effective for most patients. It can be used by patients of all ages to give their lips a noticeable boost and restore a younger appearance.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid? 

Hyaluronic acid, which is the main base of Juvederm fillers like Volbella, is a hydrating, naturally occurring sugar that helps keep the skin soft and smooth. In the body, this incredible acid attracts and maintains moisture, keeping various organs and joints well-hydrated and functioning. It is also essential for keeping the skin plump, making it the perfect substance to use in the lips.

In addition to its natural moisturizing properties, Juvederm hyaluronic acid offers the added advantage of cross-linked technology. This molecular modification makes the hyaluronic acid base one of the longest-lasting available in the beauty world today. In addition, it offers a noticeable, dramatic filling effect with added support and structure while maintaining a soft texture that is completely indiscernible from the rest of your skin.

What Concerns Can Be Addressed? 

Volbella can improve a number of common concerns in the lips and surrounding skin. Here are some of the most popular areas we can improve with just a single appointment:

Volume

As we age, our lips can begin to lose volume. While this is a normal part of growing older, many people decide that they want to restore their lips’ full volume or accentuate this feature with dermal filler injections. This product can fill the upper and lower lip, creating natural volume and attractive, even results. 

Definition

Our lips can begin to show signs of aging long before the rest of our body. These signs of aging may include fine lines and lack of definition in the lips themselves, which can cause some patients to experience lower self-esteem when they look at their lips in pictures or in the mirror. With an injectable dermal filler, you could see your lips redefined and restored to their original appearance. 

Borders

The outer borders of our lips often fade over time. When combined with the loss of volume due to aging, fading borders can create the appearance of thin, narrow lips. Many patients choose to have the outer edges of their lips filled, which can create a fuller appearance and give your lips a fresh, youthful glow. 

Shape

Some patients wish to correct changes in the shape of their lips caused by aging, while others wish to subtly enhance their natural shape to achieve a plumper result. Whatever your goals, our team of professionals can help you create a natural, attractive lip shape. We can also highlight areas like the Cupid’s bow to add a subtle drama to your look.

How Long Does It Last? 

Volbella is unique as one of the longest-lasting dermal fillers available. For most patients, final results last up to 12 months without any touch-ups required. In contrast, many competing fillers designed to enhance your lips last just 3-6 months. Our experienced doctor can give you an idea of how long you can expect your own results to last during your initial consultation.

Once results begin to fade, our patients often choose to return to our office for follow-up treatments in order to maintain their ideal image. Since this dermal filler is safe for most patients and able to be used to build and maintain volume over time, you can pursue ongoing treatments for as long as you desire to keep your lips looking their best.

When Is the Best Time to Pursue Treatment? 

While dermal fillers are often viewed as anti-aging treatments, Volbella is appropriate for every patient and every stage of life. This filler can be used in patients beginning at the age of 21 to volumize, define, and shape lips to match your ideal image.

Our doctor and trained technicians will help create natural yet noticeable results and can also address a range of concerns you may experience with strategic injections to target thinning lips, fine lines, and more.

Am I an Ideal Candidate?  

If you’re an adult man or woman who is unsatisfied with the appearance of your lips, you’re likely a good candidate for this treatment. An ideal candidate is healthy, free from any health or medical concerns that may interact negatively with treatment. If you are unsure of whether this treatment is right for you, our doctor will help you evaluate your candidacy during an initial consultation.

What Should I Expect?

If you’re seeking a non-invasive way to revitalize your lips, this product could be right for you. Every patient’s treatment process is unique, but here’s a broad overview of what our patients experience when they come to us for their cosmetic needs.

Consultation 

We start with an initial consultation, which allows you to meet with our doctor and discuss your goals for treatment. During this appointment, our doctor will examine your lips, ask you about your areas of concern, and review your medical history. You’ll also be able to ask any questions you may have about the treatment process or anticipated results in your unique case.

If you are approved for treatment, our doctor will provide you with personalized instructions for how to prepare for your first appointment. It’s essential that you follow these instructions carefully to achieve optimal results from this treatment.

Preparation

Preparing for dermal filler injections is generally easy for most of our patients. Since this treatment is non-invasive, you don’t need to worry about changing most of your medications. We do recommend that you avoid blood-thinning medications like ibuprofen for at least a week before your first appointment to reduce your risk of bruising after the injections are complete.

In addition, we recommend that you avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours before treatment. In order to ensure a positive treatment experience, we recommend that you use only gentle, tested products in the target area before your treatment. New or untried lip products could cause reactions or irritation that may interact negatively with the treatment process.

We recommend that you avoid any additional treatments in the lip area for two weeks before and after treatment. This may include exfoliating products, which often cause redness and irritation in the skin. Finally, you should take note of any cuts or sores that may appear on or near your lips before treatment and inform our doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment

On the day of your treatment, we recommend that you avoid wearing any products on or around your lips. Our technician will clean your lips, then use a numbing agent to make sure you’re comfortable before beginning the injection process. They will also examine your lips for any injuries or irritation to make sure that you are able to receive treatment.

Once your lips are numb, our technician will use a fine, small needle to inject the dermal filler into your lips. They will be able to see the volumizing effect immediately and will build symmetrical volume with several strategic injections in various locations. The injection process usually takes just 15-20 minutes.

Once our technician is finished, they will show you your results in a mirror. You should notice an instant improvement in the appearance of your lips, which will appear fuller and more vibrant. Your areas of concern should already appear diminished, while the borders of your lips should be well-defined thanks to the series of injections. Once your appointment is complete, you’ll be able to return to your normal daily activities with zero downtime.

Recovery

During the first two weeks after treatment, the dermal filler will settle into its final position. It’s important to avoid touching, rubbing, or pressing on your lips as much as possible during this period. You may wear lip products one to two days after treatment, but you should use great care when applying lipstick, gloss, or balm and try not to press on your lips.

Once the product is settled, you can touch your lips normally. We may perform a touch-up session two weeks after your first appointment to enhance your final results.

Results

While your results are visible immediately, you won’t see your final results until two weeks after your appointment. For most patients, there is little difference between the initial and final results. You can expect to enjoy your results for up to 12 months, after which point the hyaluronic acid product will break down and be safely absorbed into the body.

When this happens, you will begin to notice your lips returning to their original appearance. You may also notice some of your concerns reappear. Eight to12 months after the first treatment, most patients schedule follow-up appointments to maintain their results. These follow-up appointments add extra volume and prevent your lips from returning to their original state.

Over time, these appointments may help prevent the development of fine lines, definition issues, and thin lips due to aging by keeping your lips full and hydrated. Our doctor can discuss a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals and schedule during your initial consultation.

Contact Us to Learn More!

Don’t let your lips keep you from embracing life or loving yourself. With Volbella, you could see your lips rejuvenated with one quick treatment and enjoy your results for years to come. To learn more about this exceptional lip filler, contact our team of experts at Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville in Jacksonville Beach, FL, to schedule an initial consultation today! We look forward to helping you reach all your cosmetic goals!

One of the first questions asked about laser tattoo removal is: does the laser remove some colors better than others? The simple answer is, yes. However, color is only one factor affecting laser efficacy. At Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville in Jacksonville Beach, FL, we have compiled this list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a full overview of tattoo removal considerations.

What Are the Hardest Colors to Remove With Laser Tattoo Removal?

If we only consider colors, black is the easiest color to remove because black ink pigment absorbs the laser best. Reds and darker blues and greens are more difficult. Lighter greens and blues are the most difficult. None of the factors discussed here make tattoo removal “impossible”. It simply means removing the tattoo is more complex and will likely take longer.

Newer Tattoos 

Newer tattoos are more difficult to remove than older ones and/or “stick and poke” (amateur) tattoos.

Smaller, Simpler Tattoos

Smaller, simpler, and less colorful tattoos are easier (and cheaper) to remove. The more complex your tattoo, the more time it takes to remove it. Great art takes time. It also takes time to disappear.

Skin Tones

Darker skin absorbs more of the laser light, which can make removal more difficult. Removal goes more quickly when lasers are used on lighter skin tones.

Skin Color and Condition

Skin conditions, including eczema and herpes simplex viruses, can make tattoo removal more difficult. Consulting with your health care provider can help alleviate complicating medical conditions. Eczema creams can suppress topical symptoms and antivirals can prevent herpes flare-ups.

What Kinds of Lasers Are Best?

Experts in tattoo removal consider lasers the most effective (and cost-efficient) method.

Q-Switched Lasers 

Most clinics use a “Q-switched” (sometimes called a “Q-pulsed”) laser that emits rapid-fire pulses of high-energy light rather than a single, steady beam. Pulsing allows a much stronger beam to penetrate to the ink layer without damaging the skin. The laser’s energy heats up the ink itself, allowing your skin’s natural healing process to dissolve it.

Though Q-switched lasers were a major advancement in laser tattoo removal, they typically work best at the darker end of the ink color spectrum: blacks, reds, and dark blues/greens. They are less effective on lighter colors, especially blues and greens. This is why Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville employs a spectrum of laser tattoo removal technologies.

New-Generation Picosecond Laser

Enlighten, a new generation of picosecond laser, refines the capabilities of earlier pigmentation removal lasers by employing dual wavelengths and dual pulse durations. This provides more precise laser control and the ability to target inksin a way that can halve the time it would take a Q-switched laser to complete the removal. Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville is Florida’s first with this technology and one of just a few practices in the country qualified to employ it.

PicoSure for Greens, Teals, and Blues

PicoSure delivers the laser’s energy in trillionth-of-a-second pulses. This is particularly effective at targeting the problem colors of other laser treatments, like greens, teals, and blues. The energy delivered through the PicoSure treatment shatters these ink particles, letting the body’s natural healing process disburse them from your skin.

Alex TriVantage Dual-Wavelength for Darker Skin Tones

Alex TriVantage, a dual-wavelength version of the Q-switched laser, treats a wider spectrum of ink colors than traditional Q-switched systems. The Alex TriVantage is also suitable for a wider variety of skin types, which allows technicians to tune treatment plans for individual skin pigmentation and sensitivities, among other factors.

The DeScribe PFD Patch

The DeScribe PFD Patch is a silicone sheet infused with perfluorodecalin (PFD), which reduces laser light scattering and draws heat away from the skin. This FDA-cleared patch is placed onto the skin during laser tattoo removal treatment. This increases the patient’s comfort during the treatment process while allowing additional passes with the laser during a single session.

DeScribe Clinical Trials

A recent clinical trial indicates that patients experienced faster post-treatment healing when the patch was used. 100% of subjects responded that they would choose to employ the patch given the option. Many consider the DeScribe PFD Patch to be the biggest advance in tattoo removal technology since the advent of the Q-switched laser.

Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville is one of the only practices in the Jacksonville area to employ the DeScribe Patch and would love to include a discussion of its possible use in your treatments.

Will Laser Methods Completely Remove My Tattoo?

Results depend on a number of factors:

Simple Tattoos vs. Complex, Colorful Tattoos

The smaller and simpler your tattoo, the easier it is to remove. On the other hand, larger tattoos, intricate designs, and a wider spectrum of colors are more time consuming and difficult for the technician to completely eliminate. The most difficult tattoos to remove will lighten or fade to limited noticeability rather than completely disappear.

Considering Skin Tone

The lighter your skin, the easier it is to remove a tattoo. Darker skin directly absorbs more of the laser energy, which can interfere with laser effectiveness and affect skin tone in the treated area. Experienced technicians will use different types of removal lasers tuned to your skin tone.

Older Tattoos Are Partway There

The older and more faded your tattoo is, the more effectively it can be removed. With newer tattoos, your skin has done less natural absorbing of the ink, so more ink has to be removed via laser treatment. Older tattoos behave almost like they have already had a few treatments.

Only A Professional Can Provide a Real Prognosis

We recommend choosing a reputable firm for tattoo removal and having a technician assess your tattoo to gauge your expectations. Most will provide a free assessment of your tattoo and an estimate as to the number of treatments required, the timeframe, and the cost.

What Is the Removal Experience Like?

Laser removal can be done by an aesthetic clinic. The laser technician applies a local anesthetic to numb the area to which the laser will be applied. The process is relatively non-invasive, and most patients report virtually no pain. The technician will apply the proper laser directly to your skin to heat the ink in your tattoo, which breaks it up and causes your skin to absorb it via its natural healing process.

Post-Treatment Care

Your technician will instruct you on post-treatment care of the treated area. This usually involves applying an antibacterial ointment for several days and re-bandaging the area to protect the area from infection.

What Are the Post-Laser Treatment Do’s and Don’ts?

Because each individual’s skin and tattoos are different, your between/post-treatment routine may require variations on these recommendations. Your treatment team will provide you with personalized specifics, but the major recommendations are:

• Apply any ointments and/or bandages according to technician instructions
• Keep the tattooed area clean and dry
• Avoid tight clothing or anything that rubs against the area.
• Shield the treated area from direct sunlight
• To avoid scarring, avoid touching, scratching, or picking at the treated area

How Many Treatment Sessions Are Required?

Treatments are usually scheduled six to eight weeks apart to allow your skin to absorb the ink. At subsequent treatments, you and your technician will gauge how much the tattoo has faded and plan for additional sessions as needed. Though it varies by individual and tattoo complexity, most removals require six to eight sessions.

What Does Laser Removal Cost?

Cost varies depending on the age, size, intricacy, and the colors in your tattoo. Our experienced laser technicians can review your tattoo and give you an estimate based on these factors. Unfortunately, most insurance companies will not cover tattoo removal because it is considered a cosmetic procedure.

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Compare to Other Methods?

While laser removal is the most popular and least expensive method of removal, there are two other removal procedures to compare it with: surgical removal and dermabrasion. Major comparison factors include:

• How completely the tattoo needs to be removed
• Skin conditions complicating certain removal methods
• The size and location of the tattoo
• Age of the tattoo
• Design intricacy/colors of the tattoo

What Is Surgical Removal?

Sometimes referred to as “excision” removal, this involves surgically cutting off the tattooed skin and suturing together the remaining skin. It is the most invasive removal method and tends to leave a noticeable scar, but is also the only method that completely removes the tattoo. It is generally recommended only for small tattoos.

Surgical Removal Timeframe and Cost

The procedure is typically done in a single procedure that can take several hours. It usually takes several weeks to heal post-surgery. Surgical removal typically costs less than laser removal or dermabrasion. Depending on the size and location of the tattoo, it can run between $150 and $350. Because it is a cosmetic procedure, insurance generally does not cover it.

What Is Dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion is literally using a medical sanding device to remove skin layers, which allows the tattoo ink to leach out of the skin. It is a less common option as its effectiveness varies widely from individual to individual. In some cases, it can remove most of a tattoo.

Skin Tone and Pigmentation Limit Dermabrasion

People with skin conditions such as eczema, or sensitive skin should avoid dermabrasion. Those taking blood thinners should avoid dermabrasion. People with darker skin can experience pigment changes in the abraded area.

Dermabrasion Removal Timeframe and Cost

The cost of dermabrasion depends on the size and color intricacy of the tattoo. It is typically done in a single session but can take longer for larger and more colorful tattoos. Recovery takes up to three weeks, and the treated area can return to normal within 12 weeks of the procedure.

Can I Get a No-Cost/No-Obligation Tattoo Removal Consultation?

Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville invites you to visit for a free, no-obligation consultation regarding your tattoo(s). We believe our professionals’ expertise, our spectrum of removal tools, and the comfort/privacy of our clinic set us apart. The only requirement is that you visit our offices so we can gauge the specifics of your tattoo’s colors, complexity, and your individual skin factors. Then we can tell you exactly what to expect! Please contact Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville in Jacksonville Beach, FL today to learn more or get started.

Are the visible signs of aging on your skin causing you to feel less confident about yourself? Have you tried a battery of over-the-counter skincare products only to end up dissatisfied with your lack of significant results? Ultherapy is a skin-tightening treatment that uses high-intensity ultrasound energy to address and treat the visible signs of aging on your skin. If you’d like to know more about this highly effective, revolutionary treatment, contact us at Laser Skin Solutions in Jacksonville Beach, FL to find out more.

How Does Ultherapy Work?

Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins found in the human body, and it plays a critical role in many of the body’s processes. When it comes to your skin, collagen gives it its youthful look by keeping it firm and toned. As your body ages, collagen breaks down, resulting in a loss of skin strength, elasticity, and smoothness. Treatment effectively addresses this by “lifting” your skin through the power of ultrasound technology.

Why Your Skin Looks Great When You’re Young

Children and young adults rarely wrinkle or have to deal with loose, saggy skin because collagen is constantly being produced. Once we enter our 30s, the body stops producing it, and the residual collagen in your skin reduces about 1% per year. The result is that your skin isn’t as efficient at replacing dead skin cells, often leading to skin that looks saggy, crepey, or wrinkled.

Minor Damage, Major Improvement

Researchers have discovered that the best way to get your skin to produce collagen again is to shock it into doing so. Past treatments have been able to do this by using a combination of heat and microneedling. Ultherapy uses ultrasound technology to achieve excellent results through a less invasive method.

The Power of Focused Energy

Treatment involves the use of ultrasound technology, which sends pulses of energy that penetrate about 4mm below the surface of your skin. The technology bypasses the top layers of your skin to deliver focused energy to the foundational layers, where your collagen is located, triggering a response that stimulates the regeneration of your skin’s collagen proteins in a process known as Neocollagenesis.

How Neocollagenesis Works

As treatment focuses energy on the foundational layer of your skin, the collagen existing in the area receives just enough damage on a cellular level to kick start the body’s healing process. Fortunately, the body isn’t very good at regulating how much healing needs to be done and will end up generating much more collagen than was damaged during treatment.

Collagen proteins take anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks to grow. When Neocollagenesis is stimulated by treatment, an extended regeneration process is kick-started that can last anywhere between three and six months, during which period strong, healthy collagen is manufactured within your skin to replace your older, less effective collagen. The result is skin that looks younger with fewer fine lines, wrinkles, and saggy or crepey skin.

How Is Ultherapy Different From Other Cosmetic Treatments?

This treatment targets the deeper layers of your skin that are usually only reachable with cosmetic surgery. Topical creams, lotions, tinctures, and balms that are applied to the surface of your skin can only reach so deep and, while they can sometimes provide a measure of improvement, the results are generally limited.

An added benefit of using ultrasound technology is that it provides ultrasound imaging, which allows a medical professional to see the underlying layers of skin during treatment. The ability to see the deeper layers of your skin allows your provider to guide the treatment to the areas where your skin needs it most.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Treatment?

Anyone at any age who is experiencing a degree of skin laxity and is dissatisfied with the effects of aging on their skin is a candidate. The best time to undergo treatment is when your skin is less firm than it was in years prior but still has some elasticity to it. If you’re beginning to notice a lowered brow line, sagging on your neck or jawline, or the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it may be the perfect time to undergo treatment to address these issues.

Most patients will begin to notice these signs of aging in their 30s. However, patients in their 40s who are experiencing mild-to-moderate skin laxity can also make good candidates for treatment. Ultherapy is also an excellent method to stave off the effects of aging when you choose to undergo treatment at an earlier age before the signs of aging have significantly progressed.

What if You’re in Your 20s?

Most people in their 20s aren’t going to be experiencing the effects of aging on their skin, however, aging affects us all at different rates, and some people in their late 20s can make great candidates for treatment. What matters most is that you’re noticing the effects of aging on your skin and you want to make a change. If you’re unsure whether treatment is right for you, we’re more than happy to discuss your concerns, and your options, at your appointment.

What Are the Benefits of Ultherapy?

Treatment Is Non-Invasive

Any time someone chooses to undergo surgery, the procedure carries some degree of risk. There are always going to be potential side effects when you involve anesthesia, incisions, and post-procedure healing. This treatment is 100% non-invasive. Treatment does not require breaking the surface of your skin and can provide a significant improvement in sagging skin without exposing you to the potential (though unlikely) side effects or complications that surgery does.

Treatment Is Customizable

The areas of your face most in need of treatment aren’t always going to be obvious when looking at the surface of your skin. As mentioned, ultrasound imaging allows your provider to visualize the lower layers of your skin in the treated area. In doing so, your provider can direct the heat during treatment to the precise areas that are most in need of improvement.

Treatment works by repairing the cause of aging’s undesirable effects. By triggering your body’s healing response to rebuild collagen, the associated wrinkles and excess skin laxity is addressed. It does not physically remove wrinkles from the surface of your skin, but the wrinkles are removed naturally as the collagen underneath is rejuvenated and rebuilt. To do the most good, your provider will need to know where the most damaged collagen is, not necessarily where your wrinkles are.

Treatment Has No Downtime

It’s common for patients to experience redness or flushing of the skin immediately after treatment, but that’s about it. You will not be required to spend any time healing or recovering afterward and can immediately resume your normal daily activities without restriction.

Results Look Natural Because They Are!

The results of your treatment will gradually become apparent post-treatment. Since it takes four to 10 days for collagen to form, there’s no dramatic post-treatment “reveal” that shows you had anything done.

Remember, treatment triggers your body’s healing response to stimulate the growth of new, strong, resilient collagen in your skin. The result is your collagen rejuvenating your facial structure. Your “after” picture, if you take one, won’t look like you had anything altered on your face. Your skin will look tighter, smoother, and more youthful, just like it did in previous years.

How Long Do the Effects of Ultherapy Last?

The skin-tightening effects of treatment are due to rejuvenating the collagen deep within your skin and can result in “turning back the clock” on your skin. It cannot stop the aging process completely, though. Most patients will enjoy the effects of their treatment for about two years, though, and after that, you may want to come in periodically for additional maintenance treatments once or twice a year.

If you continue with maintenance treatments, your skin will continue to age but you’ll always look younger than you are, and your skin will be tighter and more elastic than it would be had you not elected to undergo treatment at all.

How Can You Maximize Your Results?

Treatment is effective at addressing the signs of aging in your skin, but there are a few things you can do post-treatment to help ensure your results last as long as possible.

Use Sunscreen

The sun’s light is the #1 cause for premature aging in your skin, and if you want to look your best for as long as possible, you need to protect yourself when you go outside. Always use sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 30 or above and avoid repetitive, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when you can.

Don’t Smoke

Tobacco products don’t just harm you internally: they can also wreak havoc on your skin and greatly increase the rate at which your skin ages. If you smoke, it’s best to quit as soon as possible.

Use Quality Skincare Products

While using anti-aging products are unlikely to produce anywhere near as dramatic of results as treatment with us, they can help keep your skin supple and preserve its elasticity post-treatment. Moisturize regularly and use only quality skincare products. If you have questions about which products to use, let us know. We will be more than happy to make recommendations based on your aesthetic goals and the current condition of your skin.

Why Choose Us?

Dr. Jill Lezaic

Dr. Lezaic is a Board Certified Family Physician who has been specializing in aesthetic and laser medicine since 2002. She is a fellow of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS), a Luminary speaker for a variety of aesthetic companies, and one of the lead trainers for the American Academy of Facial Esthetics.

Dr. Lezaic has performed thousands of aesthetic treatments over the years and is a frequently requested speaker, expert panelist, and trainer at many conferences, including Pri-Med, Family Medicine, The Aesthetic Show, and the A4M Anti-Aging Conference. She has been interviewed for multiple news affiliates, has served on expert panels during national presentations, and has contributed to published articles through round table expert discussions and interviews.

Turn Back the Clock on Aging

The effects of aging on your skin are brought about due to the degeneration of the collagen within its deeper layers. Collagen provides structure and elasticity to your skin, and as it degrades you’ll notice the effects of aging becoming increasingly pronounced.

Ultherapy is an FDA-approved treatment for addressing the effects of aging in your skin. It is non-invasive, safe, fast, and effective. If you think this treatment is right for you or would like to learn more, call Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville in Jacksonville Beach, FL to schedule a consultation.

It’s natural to sweat when we’re hot, have just physically exerted ourselves or are about to conquer a fear like public speaking. If you’re one of the nearly eight million people who suffer from hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating, you know how debilitating the condition can be. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Call Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville, in Jacksonville Beach, FL and ask about miraDry.

What Causes Sweat?

Sweat is something our bodies produce to regulate our temperature and keep us from overheating. When your body produces sweat when you’re hot, the sweat on your skin gets cooled from the air around it, and that cooling prevents you from overheating. That sweat is triggered by a nerve impulse from our brains telling our sweat glands to go to work.

We each have over three million sweat glands located all over our bodies. There are two kinds of these glands, each producing different kinds of sweat.

Eccrine Sweat Glands

These are the most abundant glands located on your body, and they open directly onto the skin. These glands produce a lightweight and odorless sweat made up of mostly water and salt. This is the sweat that forms on your back, arms, and legs when you work out.

Apocrine Sweat Glands

These glands are concentrated in the hair follicles and produce a heavier sweat that is laden with fat. The sweat produced from these glands begins odorless, but when it mixes with the bacteria found on your skin, it produces odor. These glands are found on the hair follicles of the:

• Scalp
• Groin
• Armpits

 

What Are the Triggers of Sweat?

There are triggers that will cause most of us to produce a normal amount of sweat. Each of us reacts differently, so how heavily we sweat varies slightly, but all within a normal range, called hidrosis.

Heat

This is why sweat exists: to cool us off when we are overheated. The process known as thermoregulation works because of evaporation. The process of evaporation is turning a liquid into a gas. Your body uses the air around you and your body’s heat to cause the evaporation of your sweat and the cooling of your body temperature.

If you’ve ever sweat on a humid day, you know the cooling down process isn’t as easy. This is because the swirling air around you is heavy with moisture, making evaporation difficult or impossible. Under normal heat conditions, the average person will sweat 1.5 liters of liquid every hour, making it critically important to hydrate when you sweat.

Exercise

Your body heats up quickly when you exercise, so thermoregulation kicks into high gear. That body heat needs to escape or we’ll overheat quickly. If you’re exercising outside and it’s hot, you can sweat up to a gallon every hour. Taking a break to hydrate isn’t just a good idea; it’s critical to stay healthy.

Fight or Flight

When you become extremely angry, anxious or stressed, your body triggers something called a fight-or-flight response. For pre-historic man, this got our bodies ready for a life-threatening situation. Our bodies release hormones, our heart rate quickens, our breathing becomes deeper and we sweat.

Today, this response happens when we’re anxious about something like speaking in public, there’s a perceived physical threat or we’re startled. The best way to ease this kind of sweating is to breathe deeply and wait for the triggered response to subside.

Fever and Sickness

When you have a fever, your body’s core temperature rises, sometimes dangerously. A fever is your body’s way of fighting off whatever is making it sick. You may sweat as your body simultaneously tries to cool itself. If you’re sweating everywhere and often, you should consult your doctor to rule out an underlying issue.

Hormones

Women who are approaching menopause may find they have night sweats. These are considered to be a normal symptom of the fluctuations in hormones they experience. They may go from very hot to chilled in a matter of moments.

Hyperhidrosis

If hidrosis is sweating normally, hyperhidrosis is the production of excessive sweat. This condition normally affects the feet, underarms and hands. Problems with excessive sweating under the arms usually start in late adolescence. There are hallmark symptoms of hyperhidrosis:

• Sweating every waking hour but not at night
• Sweating regardless of temperature or activity
• Sweating regardless of mood
• Constant dampness under the arms
• Using over the counter antiperspirants to no avail

If you find you choose clothing that will hide sweating, like baggy or dark clothes, and are constantly embarrassed by excessive sweating, you may be suffering from hyperhidrosis.

Psychological Effects

It’s not just the physical feeling and visibility of sweat that makes this a difficult condition to live with. The psychological effects of worrying about the appearance and odor of underarm sweat can influence someone’s quality of life. People with hyperhidrosis may deal with these emotional symptoms:

• Constant anxiety about odor and appearance
• Embarrassment
• Withdrawal from social activities
• Reluctance to draw attention to themselves at work
• Isolation
• Depression and/or anxiety

 

What Causes Hyperhidrosis?

The causes of hyperhidrosis aren’t well understood. There seems to be a genetic component to the condition. Most people suffering from this condition have at least one parent or sibling who also has hyperhidrosis.

Treatment

Luckily, there is hope! What used to seem like a hopeless condition that needs to be worked around through clever clothing choices and sweat management throughout the day can now be effectively treated with Miradry.

What Is MiraDry?

This is a non-invasive, in-office treatment to noticeably and dramatically reduce underarm sweating. This FDA-approved technique delivers long-lasting results. It doesn’t just eliminate sweat and odor glands: it reduces the growth of underarm hair. This further reduces sweat.

Is It a Laser?

No. MiraDry uses controlled, thermal, electromagnetic energy to destroy targeted sweat glands. This targeted energy bypasses the top layer of your skin, leaving it unharmed, to seek out sweat glands and abolish them. Once these glands are gone, they can’t come back.

While it’s true that we need our sweat glands, only about 2% of them are under our arms, so we won’t miss them, and our temperature will still be normally regulated. Some of the benefits of this treatment include:

• Odor control
• Underarm hair reduction
• A non-invasive process
• Little to no downtime
• A safe, FDA-cleared treatment
• Fast appointment times
• Lasting results

 

What to Expect

When you and your skincare specialist have decided this is the right treatment for your excessive underarm sweating, the only preparation you have to do is to shave four to six days before your session.

Treatment

When you arrive for your appointment, a local anesthetic will be applied to the treatment area to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the process. Your underarm will be marked for treatment to ensure the energy is correctly targeted for optimal results. The handheld device will be placed on your skin, delivering electromagnetic energy to the sweat glands.

As the energy is delivered, it heats and destroys the sweat glands without harming your skin. Most clients report they only feel suction and no discomfort. The entire appointment lasts about one hour. It takes about 20 minutes to numb the skin and 20 minutes for each side of the body.

After Treatment

This treatment requires no downtime and most clients go right back to their normal daily routines immediately after their appointment. You can resume exercising a few days after treatment.

Results

The results are almost immediate, and they last. Once sweat glands are destroyed, they cannot grow back. People report an average of an 82% reduction in armpit sweat. Some clients will get the results they want after just one treatment, while others may opt for up to three treatments spaced three months apart.

These long-lasting results differ greatly from those you can get from using neuromodulators under the arm. Those treatments only last about six months because they only halt sweat production; they don’t permanently address it. The hair follicles that are destroyed during this process won’t grow back either.

Laser Hair Removal

If the thought of thinning out your underarm hair while treating excessive underarm sweating is appealing, consider laser hair removal for other unwanted hair. That laser hair removal system that uses the most innovative technology is called Excel HR.

What Is Excel HR?

Excel HR is a dual laser hair removal system that gets superior results and provides maximum client comfort. To target the hair follicle, this system uses two laser pulse speeds combined with a built-in cooling system to keep the surface of the skin cool and comfortable. Cooling is delivered before, during and after the application of the pulsed laser to ensure total comfort.

Lasers work by targeting the pigment of the hair, traveling down the hair shaft and gently heating the follicle walls under the skin. When these walls are destroyed, the hair follicle can’t grow back. This system is easily adjusted to address both small and large areas.

Results

All results vary among clients. Keep in mind that your hair is in different phases of growth at all times. Because this treatment targets pigment that travels all the way to the follicle, it will only work on actively growing hair. It takes a few weeks for the targeted hair to loosen and fall out, but once it sheds off your skin, it’s gone.

Some people will have a bit of hair regrowth no matter what the hair removal method. If this happens, the hair grows back finer and less concentrated.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Each client is different. Because your hair is in different phases of growth, more than one session is needed to catch more hair in the growth phase. There are four stages of growth, so to ensure you target the most hairs in the active phase, you may opt for four or more treatments. If you want completely smooth results, you may need 6-9 treatments spaced 6 to 10 weeks apart.

The number of treatments needed depends on the area being treated, the amount and condition of the hair being removed and your body’s responsiveness to treatment.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

The best results will happen for people with medium to dark hair. The light from the laser targets the melanin that causes pigment. Light-colored or grey hair has very little melanin, and clients with hair of these colors will not get the results they want from this treatment. This laser system is great for all skin types, so as long as you also have dark hair, this will work for you!

Call for Your Life-Changing Appointment

Living with the constant anxiety of excessive sweating doesn’t have to be your norm. Call Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville in Jacksonville Beach, FL for your consultation. Our compassionate staff is dedicated to providing you with the best service and results so you can stop worrying about sweat and start enjoying your life. We look forward to talking with you soon!

Many people believe they have to resign to bothersome and unwanted signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone. Thanks to consistent innovation that leads to safe, comfortable and effective treatments, patients can experience transformative results that can restore a youthful appearance. Call Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville in Jacksonville Beach, FL and ask about Laser Genesis.

The Most Common Signs of Aging

Just because a sign of aging is common doesn’t mean it’s any less welcome. Looking in the mirror as we age can take a toll on our self-esteem and shake our self-image. The common signs of aging that can be the most troublesome:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Large pores
• Uneven texture
• Uneven tone and redness

 

What Causes These Signs of Aging?

There are several factors that lead to various signs of aging, each one unique, and while some are avoidable, others are inevitable. The most prominent signs of aging are because of the changes that happen underneath the surface of our skin.

The Dermis

The dermis is our middle layer of skin sandwiched between the epidermis, or outer layer, and the deep subcutaneous layer called the hypodermis. The dermis contains our hair follicles and a thick, strong layer of connective tissue. That connective tissue is predominantly made up of collagen.

Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies and makes up 80% of our skin. In the dermis, it holds all of our skin cells together and ensures they’re tightly packed, so the foundation of our skin is smooth, solid and strong. Collagen is fibrous, resilient and promotes healthy cell regeneration, which helps our skin look:

• Clear
• Bright
• Even
• Smooth
• Taut

In the dermis, collagen works with elastin and hyaluronic acid to keep our skin in place and glowing.

Elastin

Another protein prevalent in the dermis is elastin. Elastin is found in all of our organs and keeps them flexible. Our skin is no exception. Elastin makes sure our skin, even when pinched, pulled or stretched, can snap back to its original position and shape.

It works with collagen to make sure our skin clings smoothly to the dermis, preventing lines, wrinkles and skin laxity. When we smile, frown or scowl, elastin keeps our skin bouncing back.

Hyaluronic Acid

This sugar pulls moisture into our skin, eyes and other connective tissues. Our bodies produce hyaluronic acid to keep our skin lubricated and supple. Many new skin products contain synthetic hyaluronic acid knowing its molecules can hold up to 1000 times their weight in water.

Our skin looks dewy and plump because of the hydration this sugar provides.

A Breakdown In the Dermis

As we age, our production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid declines and the structure of our dermis is compromised. What was once tightly held together is weakened, allowing small cracks in the foundation to form. Collagen can no longer support our epidermis as evenly, and the top layer of our skin deflates to fill in these newly formed cracks and crevices.

Collagen promotes healthy cell regeneration, but when it breaks down, our skin can become discolored or blotchy and red. This breakdown of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid can lead to:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Age spots
• Uneven tone and texture
• Broken capillaries
• Large pores
• Pronouncement and worsening of existing scars

 

Contributing Factors

This breakdown in our dermis can never be completely avoided, and the signs of aging will catch up to all of us eventually. There are factors we can avoid to stave off this breakdown of collagen or at least slow its decline, however. Many of the lifestyle choices we make can either positively or negatively affect our collagen levels.

The greatest damage to our skin comes from exposure to the sun. Although our epidermis acts as a barrier against most things that can harm our bodies, it’s no match for the harmful UV rays of the sun. Unprotected exposure can cause discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles, and worsening of uneven tone and texture. Other contributing factors to collagen decline are:

• Smoking
• Diet high in processed foods and sugar
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Poor air quality
• Chronic dehydration
• Long-term, unmanaged stress
• Lack of proper sleep
• Poor skincare routine

 

Skin Rejuvenating Treatments

Innovation and scientific advancements have led to the creation of several non-invasive and effective treatments for unwanted signs of aging. One of the most successful for complexion rejuvenation is Laser Genesis.

What Is Laser Genesis?

Laser treatments have become increasingly more popular because of their effectiveness while still being non or minimally invasive and requiring little to no downtime. Laser Genesis is considered one of the most comfortable laser facial treatments available. This treatment uses a non-ablative Nd:YAG laser to gently warm the collagen in the dermis.

How Does Laser Genesis Work?

When the middle layer of the skin is heated, it does a few things. First, it kills bacteria that could lead to acne breakouts and other tone and texture issues. This warming also targets existing collagen. When collagen is heated, the fibers tighten and thicken, which can cause a subtle tightening of lines and wrinkles. This disruption of collagen triggers the body to start its healing process.

As your body heals that middle layer of skin by producing more collagen, the cells that regenerate are healthier and more even in tone and texture.

On What Areas Can This Treatment Be Used?

Many clients seek this treatment for the signs of aging on their face, but that’s not the only place troublesome aging issues can appear. Many people will see things like discoloration and fine lines on other areas most exposed to the sun.

Laser Genesis has been proven safe and effective for treatment on the:

• Face
• Neck
• Chest

 

What Signs of Aging Can Be Treated?

The beauty of this comfortable and subtle treatment is how versatile it is. Only your doctor can decide if your areas of concern are best addressed by this treatment, but it covers a wide range of aging issues. This can be the perfect choice for pigment issues and minor lines and wrinkles. Concerns addressed by this treatment:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Age spots
• Acne
• Facial veins
• Redness
• Rosacea
• Uneven skin texture
• Acne scars
• Skin tags
• Broken capillaries

 

What Can I Expect From Treatment?

When you have a consultation with your doctor, you will discuss the areas of concern you’d like addressed. They will do an examination of your skin to understand its current state and assess how well you’d respond to treatment. If your doctor decides your expected results can be achieved with Laser Genesis, you’ll be given a few things to do before your treatment.

Pre-Treatment

The most important thing you can do to prepare for your treatment is to avoid sun exposure for two weeks before. When your skin burns, it’s sensitive to heat, so what would otherwise be a comfortable and even soothing experience could be uncomfortable.

During Your Appointment

The skin on the treatment area will be cleansed. There is no need for topical numbing creams or lotions because this is not an uncomfortable process. You’ll be given protective eyewear to keep your eyes shielded from the light of the laser. Your doctor or skincare laser specialist will then choose the appropriate setting for your skin and begin treatment.

Clients report feeling a very gentle warming sensation and consider it soothing. Some even compare it to the feel of the sun on a warm, but not hot, day. Most treatments last around 30 minutes, but it depends on the area or areas being treated.

Post-Treatment

When your session is over, you can go right back to your normal routine: there is no downtime. Some clients will schedule this treatment in the middle of a busy day and go immediately back to work or their social routine afterward.

After your session, it’s important to avoid sun exposure for at least a week. After that, always wear sunscreen. Your skin will hold on to some heat from treatment for a few days, so you should avoid things like strenuous exercise, saunas, and steam rooms.

Results

Some clients report seeing subtle results immediately. Because the collagen in the dermis has shrunk, you may see some initial tightening of those fine lines and wrinkles. The real results will happen over the course of the next few weeks and months. Some clients will even see results improve for up to six months.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions you need will depend on the condition of your skin, the areas of concern you have and your expected results. We recommend multiple sessions no matter what results you’re expecting. Some clients will be completely satisfied with two or three sessions while others may choose to have more to maximize their results.

When you receive multiple treatments, they will be spaced a month apart from each other. This gives the previous treatment time to rebuild collagen and give you a feel for your current results.

How Long Do Results Last?

Results from treatment are intended to last about a year; however, when clients take very good care of their skin, protecting it from the sun and other environmental hazards, their results can last for much longer. Always work with your doctor to determine what the right follow-up schedule is to maximize your results.

Who Is a Good Candidate for This Treatment?

Because this is a non-invasive and mild treatment, almost anybody with mild signs of aging or skin discoloration can be a good candidate. This also a great treatment for clients who receive facials regularly but feel they need something a little stronger.

If you have darker skin tones, it’s important to talk through all your options before you decide on a treatment. If you’re experiencing more severe signs of aging, this subtle treatment may not be enough to tackle your areas of concern. Only your doctor can determine if this is the right treatment to help you reach your aesthetic goals. If you need a stronger treatment, your doctor may talk to you about:

• IPL
• Picosure laser revitalization
• Fractional laser treatment
• Skin Tightening Cutera Titan treatment
• Chemical peels
• Ultherapy
• Excel V laser treatment

 

Injectables

If your main concern is moderate-to-severe lines, wrinkles, and folds, talk to your doctor about injectables because they are a great complement to this treatment. These can offer an immediate filling of areas like:

• Nasolabial folds
• Marionette lines
• Thinning lips
• Vertical lip lines
• Chin dimples and wrinkles

They can also provide a softening of dynamic wrinkles like:

• Frown lines
• Forehead lines
• Crow’s feet
• Bunny lines

 

Call Today for a Consultation

If you’re unhappy with the signs of aging and other imperfections on your skin, call Laser Skin Solutions of Jacksonville in Jacksonville Beach, FL for a complimentary consultation. We believe highlighting your natural beauty by restoring a more youthful appearance can restore your self-confidence and provide an overall sense of wellbeing. We look forward to speaking with you soon!