• SKIN REJUVENATION

Effects of Aging and Sun Damage to Skin

     As we age, there are many things changing in our skin. The production of collagen slows and supportive connective tissue loses its integrity. This results in thinning of the skin in general, but there is a thickening and accumulation of dead skin in the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin). This dead layer of skin becomes compacted. Thus, we have duller looking skin, which, in general, also becomes rougher. What is lost is the radiance and vibrancy that is seen in youthful skin. The skin loses elasticity and over time, due to repeated mechanical folding, wrinkles start to appear and then deepen.
     Damage from the sun compounds the effects of aging by causing free radicals to form in our skin. Free radicals are molecules that cause damage to different types of cells including fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen) but also damages blood vessels and melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin, our skin pigment). Damaged blood vessels can regenerate abnormally on the skin surface causing visible spider veins on the face or more generalized redness from microscopic surface veins (rosacea). Damage to the melanocytes is responsible for abnormal pigment production that can be seen as “sun spots” (aka “age spots” or “liver spots”). Another common problem which is more related to hormones is melasma (aka pregnancy mask). Melasma usually appears as large patches of darkened skin and is not due to aging but can be significantly worsened by sun exposure.
     At Radiance Clinique we use the most advanced technologies and skin care products to combat a multitude of common problems. We have the ability to significantly improve skin quality, which often results in clients looking 10-15 years younger. Our procedures are non-surgical in nature and, in most cases, have little or no downtime. The list below includes most of the problems we treat and the stars indicate how effective the treatment is for each problem.

Portrait Plasma Skin Rejuvenation
(sun spots****, wrinkles****, tightening***, radiance****)

     Portrait Plasma Skin Rejuvenation by Rhytec corporation offers the most effective new treatment in the realm of skin resurfacing and tightening. It is the best choice for those interested in the deepest results of wrinkle reduction, skin tightening, removal of unwanted brown pigmentation, as well as bringing back the natural “glow” of the skin. The Portrait uses pulses of plasma energy on the skin surface to create a safe and controlled thermal injury to the skin. As a result of the injury, a significant layer of dead epidermal skin is shed and the deep layers of living skin respond by producing collagen at a very accelerated rate. The collagen production is fastest in the first few months after the procedure but continues for more than six months. The first improvement to be seen is always in loss of sun spots as the skin is shed. Within about 10 days the shedding is completely done and skin has a new and vibrant appearance. The improvements in wrinkles and skin tightening become apparent after about 1 month and continue to improve for up to 6 months. Dramatic results can be seen in the wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, and neck area. Portrait is FDA approved to be used on the face, neck, chest, arms, and hands. In fact, it is the only device that is safe enough to be used not just around the eye but right over the entire eyelids. It is extremely safe and has no significant side effects. Unlike older techniques of laser resurfacing or “deep” chemical peeling, there is no associated scarring or permanent loss of pigmentation. The recovery time is relatively short, about 6-8 days and is not painful. The procedure itself is also very well tolerated and requires only topical and local anesthetic.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
(sun spots****, rosacea****, pores**)

     IPL is a pulsed light therapy which is very effective in removing many pigmented lesions on the skin. It is used for removal of brown pigmentation (sunspots and melasma) and also used for red pigmentation (rosacea, cuprosis, superficial small veins). An added benefit is reduction in pore size. Treatment involves a pulse of light delivered from the crystal tip of the handpiece. The pulses feel like a sharp snap and are fairly well tolerated. Most treatments of the entire face will take about 30 minutes and are done 2 weeks apart. Most people will require 2 or more treatments depending on the problem being treated. Sun spots can be treated on the face, chest, arms, hands, and legs. There is no real downtime associated with IPL, but pigmented lesions may become darker prior to being shed from the skin.

Microdermabrasion
(smoothing***, vibrancy***, pores**, acne**, wrinkles**, sun spots**)

     Microdermabrasion is a technique of smoothing the skin with a spray of fine abrasive crystals. It is delivered by a small handpiece that gently removes superficial dead skin cells. The results are immediate leaving the skin smoother and more vibrant. This treatment will also help unclog pores resulting in smaller pores. In some cases, sun spots which are superficial will also improve. There is no downtime, but possibly mild redness that resolves within an hour. ($85 per treatment, $300 for package of 4)

Chemical Peels
(smoothing**, vibrancy***, pores**, acne***, wrinkles**, sun spots**)

     Chemical peels utilize various acids to achieve a exfoliation of dead skin, and at the same time stimulate production of new cells underneath. The type of acid is selected based on the skin type and problem being treated. The strength of the acid is variable resulting in a minimal pinkness of the skin lasting a few minutes, to stronger formulations leading to redness for a day or two. Most people will see a mild scaliness or peeling of the skin within several days. After this occurs the skin is left with a smoother, softer texture, and with a more vibrant appearance. Acne prone or oily skin also improves when salicylic acid is used. We will tailor a regimen according to the needs of each individual, since some clients do not want any redness as they return to daily activity. ($85 per treatment, $300 for package of 4)

MICROPEEL (microdermabrasion & chemical peel)

     This is the best of both treatments described above. It is a combination of a complete microdermabrasion, then a full chemical peel. It is finished with a vitamin infusion and moisturizer treatment. This combination delivers the quickest and most effective results since the two modalities are complimentary of each other in achieving similar results. Typically a series of 5 treatments spaced 2 weeks apart is recommended and will produce the best results. After that, it is recommended to have either periodic treatments, or to switch to medical grade skin care products to maintain the rejuvenated appearance. ( $160 per treatment, $600 for package of 4)

OBAGI Skin Care System
(sun spots***, wrinkles***, melasma****, vibrancy***)

OBAGI skin care products are some of the most well known and respected medical grade skin care products. The entire system is only available through a physician’s office. There are a couple of systems available to match different skin and lifestyle needs. Our most popular product, the NuDerm System incorporates two different prescription-only medications which serve to lighten abnormally pigmented areas and to regenerate new skin faster. One can expect to have some mild redness and scaliness of the skin as exfoliation occurs at an accelerated pace. The result is much more youthful, vibrant looking skin, with reductions in fine lines and wrinkles. Sun spots and melasma often improve significantly.

FACIAL SERVICES

     Zen Facial – our signature soothing and calming facial will leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed, and your skin will glow. The hydrating quality of the treatment is combined with a vitamin C infusion to nourish and repair the skin. (60 min - $85 per treatment, $300 for package of 4 )

     Deep Cleansing Facial – your pores will love this facial which starts with a relaxing steam treatment, followed by a cleansing and exfoliating scrub. Extractions and a calming enzyme mask complete the treatment which helps to close pores and remove skin impurities. (60 min - $100 per treatment, $360 package of 4)

     Ultimate Facial – This facial satisfies the need for pampering while getting the results of a true medical grade treatment. It includes a deep steam cleansing, extractions (if needed), an alpha or beta acid skin prep, then full microdermabrasion, followed by a soothing and nourishing mask loaded with vitamin C. (45 min - $120 per treatment, $400 for package of 4)