Archive for October, 2009

Introducing Zeltiq - Targeteted Fat Reduction that Works is Finally Here! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Thursday, October 29th, 2009

If you have been a patient of mine for any length of time interested in reducing areas of fat on the body, you know that I have not been excited or impressed with any of the non-surgical options currently available. I have long held out for a treatment that would be safe and truly provide results, which is why I am so excited to announce that the Zeltiq procedure is finally here!!

The Zeltiq procedure is the new “cool” way to gently reduce fat in targeted areas of the body. Known also as cryolipolysis, this non-invasive procedure results in noticeable, natural looking fat reduction in specific areas without the need for needles, incisions, anesthesia or pain medication. Best of all, you can resume your normal activities immediately following treatment.

The Zeltiq procedure is unique because it uses an advanced tissue cooling technology to eliminate fat cells without damaging the skin. The specially designed applicator cup uses a gentle vacuum pressure to draw targeted skin tissue between two cooling panels. When the fat cells are exposed to the controlled cooling, they begin a process of natural elimination and are gradually removed through the body’s normal metabolic process over time.

Ideal candidates for Zeltiq are relatively fit, but have some modest-size fat bulges that are resistant to diet and exercise. They are seeking spot reduction for specific areas of fat, but are not considering a surgical procedure.

Clinical studies validate that cryolipolysis for fat layer reduction is well-tolerated and produces a visible contour change in the majority of patients. Based on ultrasound assessment, an average fat layer reduction of 22.4% was demonstrated after only one Zeltiq procedure. Results are seen in most people between two to four months following treatment.

The cost to treat one area will be $1000, however, we are so excited by the Zeltiq that we are offering an introductory discount of 50% for procedures booked within the next three months!

For a consultation on what to expect with your specific treatment, to learn more and to take advantage of this special, please contact our office at 415-292-6350.

20% off Neova Products on Friday, October 30th: Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

How can my skin benefit from copper peptide skin care products?

Is there an eyelash growth formulation safe for people with sensitive eyes or those who are pregnant?

How exactly do home LED (light emitting diode) treatments work?

Get these and all your questions about Neova skin care products and devices answered on Friday, October 30th at our office. Samples, snacks and a representative from Neova will be on hand to discuss products and demonstrate hand-held LED (light emitting diode) devices for wrinkle and acne treatments.

Be sure to check out Neova’s new product, DNA Repair Factor Nourishing Lotion. This regenerating formula provides the restorative action of copper peptides, advanced DNA repair and enhanced moisturizing properties. It identifies DNA damage and speeds its repair, combats premature photo aging, reduce the signs of collagen degradation and hydrates the skin.

Also available is Neova Advanced Essential Lash treatment. This eyelash conditioner is formulated with clinically proven AHK Copper Peptide Complex^® technology. Essential Lash renews and restores health and vitality to natural eyelashes to promote the appearance of fuller, thicker, longer lashes. It is hypoallergenic, non-irritating and paraben-free. Safe for sensitive eyes and women who are pregnant or nursing.

Come in and enjoy 20% off Neova products on Friday, October 30th. We look forward to seeing you!

In the Buff - Let your Natural Nail Beauty Shine Through: Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Tuesday, October 20th, 2009

Finger and toenails are small, but important features of our bodies that deserve a bit of our attention. Not only can they be a fun accessory, but they also give us a window into our health.

In general our nails should be free of discoloration, spots and pain. The cuticle, nail bed (where the nail grows from) and skin surrounding the nail should look healthy and not be red or irritated. If you notice any abnormalities or significant changes in the quality of your nails, be sure to check with your doctor as this may be related to a localized fungus or signs of a more serious, systemic infection or disease.

Vertical ridges on the nail are common, harmless and can become more prominent as we age. White lines are also sometimes seen after an injury to the nail and will grow out over time. Dents running across the nail called “Beau’s lines” are caused when there has been a disruption in the nail bed, usually from injury.

Our nails is made up of compacted keratin, a protein also found in hair and skin. Like the skin, nails can become dehydrated and the layers of keratin can become thick and irregular, making the nail appear dull and flaky. Be sure to moisturize your nails and cuticles the same way you would your face and body to keep them hydrated. To also give your nails a boost with a healthy, natural glow, give them a good scrub. Nail exfoliation can buff up your nails to make them shiny, smooth and allow the natural hue of the nail bed to come through.

Exfoliation of your nails can be accomplished with an exfoliating cream rubbed into the nails. Rinse off the cream and follow up with a moisturizer. Nail files are also good tools for exfoliation and are used in a series. Start with the coarse file and then the medium file to smooth out the keratin and any ridges. Lastly use the fine file to buff and shine up the nail. You can also request a “buff” from your manicurist to achieve the same results. Its a nice change to let the natural beauty of your nail show through and take a break from polish.

Other tips to keep your nails healthy include using non-acetone polish removers, wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves when washing dishes or using chemicals, not picking at your nails or cuticles and making sure your manicurist sterilizes all tools (or better yet, bring your own).

Hair Loss - Why Me? Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Tuesday, October 13th, 2009

For the majority of the population, hair loss is a fact of life. And even though most people will experience it at some point, it still makes us feel self-conscious and distressed.

Hair loss that runs in families is known as androgenetic alopecia (”andro” referring to androgen hormones, and “alopecia” referring to baldness) or as male and female pattern baldness. Commonly, 50 percent of people by age fifty have some degree of this type of hair loss. It has been linked with the mother’s side of the family, but new research shows that early male-pattern baldness can be passed down from the father’s side as well. People with hereditary hair loss produce too much of an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink and eventually shut down.

Women tend to have diffuse thinning, especially in the crown and front of their scalp. One way to tell if you are losing hair is to check your part. Is it wider and can you see more scalp than before? Women notice an increase in hair loss after menopause, but premenopausal women may notice it as well. It also may occur in women even with normal androgen levels.

Hair loss can also be triggered by other factors too like thyroid disease, fungal infection, anemia, iron or other nutritional deficiency, excessive vitamin A intake, crash dieting, severe infections, traumatic illness, certain medications, general anesthesia in surgery, cancer treatments and emotional distress. Women also experience hair loss due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Patchy hair loss and bald spots are caused by a condition known as alopecia areata, which is often attributed to an auto-immune issue. Hair styles, tight braids and chemical hair products like bleaches and relaxers can also contribute to hair loss. In those cases hair will generally grow back once the underlying cause is corrected.

There are two drugs that are FDA approved for common hair loss. One is minoxidil (brand name Rogaine), a topical solution applied directly to the scalp, which can be purchased over the counter. It has been shown to slow hair loss and encourage hair regrowth in some people. It must be used consistently for many months to see results. This medication should be used with caution in people with heart and kidney disease and should not be used by pregnant or nursing women.

The second drug is called finasteride (brand name Propecia) and is a prescription pill taken once a day indefinitely. This medication is approved for men only and blocks the hormone that shrinks hair follicles. In most studies about 80 percent of men who take Propecia slow or stop hair loss on the top of the head and about 60 percent regrow some hair. However, it is important to take this medication as soon as you notice any hair loss. Taking it once most of your hair is already gone, will not be effective. Men with liver disease should avoid finasteride unless approved by your doctor. It can also make it harder for your doctor to detect prostate cancer so be sure to tell your doctor before having a PSA test.

Don’t believe miracle treatments! Only minoxidil and finasteride have been shown in good, reliable studies to significantly help hair loss. If you are experiencing any loss don’t delay treatment - contact your doctor and he or she can help determine the cause and best treatment. The sooner your start, the better chance you have of keeping the hair you’ve got!

Adult Acne - Even Grown Ups get the Acne Blues: Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Sunday, October 11th, 2009

If you have adult acne you are not alone! Adults comprise 46% of dermatologist’s acne patients. Angst over acne is also not confined to teens. Roughly 3 in 10 adults with acne would rather change their skin than any other physical attribute, including body weight and wrinkles! 41% of adults state that acne negatively effects their self-confidence and 52% say it’s more stressful than having it as a teenager.

In my practice I have seen patients with even mild acne cancel social plans when they have a breakout and fall into depression over chronic acne. Despite this, only about ½ of acne patients say they use their acne medications consistently and correctly. Dermatologists estimate that it is really only 2%. Acne medications must be used everyday, even when the skin is clear to be effective, but we all live in a state of hope (maybe it’s gone forever) and denial if our skin is clear then we stop our treatments. As soon as we break out we restart. Unfortunately, by that time it is too late. Patients with acne need to see their treatment as essential to their skin health as tooth brushing and flossing is to dental health.

Special Buy on the new Clarisonic Mia! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Monday, October 5th, 2009

Say ‘hello’ to Clarisonic Mia

Clarisonic Skin Cleansing Brushes use a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth your skin. In just 60 seconds a day, the Clarisonic micro-massage action cleans more than twice as effectively as manual cleansing.

Many of my patients have been using the Clarisonic Classic skin care brush on their face with great results. Not only do they feel that their skin is getting a deep clean, but they have noticed less clogged pores, brighter skin, softness and better penetration of their skin care products. My patients enjoy the brush so much that they want to use it while traveling, at the gym, etc., but find it a bit bulky to carry with them. The solution to that problem is the Clarisonic Mia!

Mia is the new, go-anywhere Sonic Skin Cleansing Brush in a great compact size. The one-button, one-speed Mia fits an active lifestyle and delivers beautiful, glowing skin wherever you may be. It has all the great benefits of the Clarisonic Classic in a smaller size and is the perfect compact cleansing system for use at home or on the go.

This brush is also a great introductory skin care item for your young adult or teenager. It’s quick, easy to use and will encourage good skin cleansing habits, with results they will see and appreciate.

The Clarisonic Mia retails for $149, but with our introductory special you can buy two Clarisonic Mia brushes for $200. That is a fifty dollar savings! Get started on your holiday shopping early with this perfect gift! Please call the office at 415-292-6350 for more details.