Facial Balancing with Dermal Fillers

by | Jan 25, 2024 | accent aesthetics, Cosmetic Dermal Filler

Facial Balancing with Dermal Fillers

In recent years, “Facial balancing” has become a buzz phrase in the aesthetic industry. So, what is facial balancing? This practice refers to harmonizing facial features, ensuring that everything from your forehead to your chin are in the correct ratio. The concept on facial balancing started during the European Renaissance, when renowned artist and architects used an equation known as the “golden ratio” to map out their masterpiece.  Thousands of years later, scientist applied the “golden ratio” formula to beauty and facial symmetry to determine the true meaning of beauty.

The Golden Ratio States:

facial balancing with dermal fillers
facial balancing with dermal fillers
facial balancing with dermal fillers
  • A visually balanced face is 1.618 times longer than it is wide.
  • The distance from the hairline to between the eyes, from between the eyes to the bottom of the nose, and from the bottom of the nose to the bottom of the chin should all be the same distance.
  • The length of an ear equals the length of the nose and the width of an eye is equal to the distance between the eyes.

Facial balancing is most often performed with hyaluronic acid based fillers. As with anything in life there are pros and cons to this treatment.

Pros:

  • The results are most often immediate, with patients leaving the office with visible results.
  • Not a surgical approach so there is no scarring, anesthesia or extended downtime.
  • Most fillers used are reversible if patient is not satisfied with results.
  • Topic numbing is applied and there is numbing in the product, so, the treatment is virtually painless.
  • The in-office treatment takes anywhere from 1-2 hours with you being able to return to normal activities directly following the appointment.
  • Cost is much lower than any surgical approach to facial reconstruction.
  • Facial balancing is completely customizable and tailored to each individual patient’s need.

Cons:

  • The effects of dermal fillers are not permanent, with most fillers lasting anywhere from 1-1.5 years with minor touch ups needed.
  • While the fillers can offer great results, they cannot provide the kind of structural changes you would see from a facelift or nose job.
  • Typically, most filler and injectable side effects are mild to moderate. Patients usually experience minor bruising for 24 hours to several days. Other symptoms include rashes, swelling, and potential infection. Filler can migrate from desired area over time, or develop lumps under the skin, although extremely rare.

In conclusion, facial balancing is an art that requires skills, expertise, and understanding of facial aesthetics. Through these soft tissue fillers, you can correct issues of asymmetry while gaining natural results to increase your self-confidence. If you have been considering filler or learning more about facial balancing we would love to schedule a consult for you.

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New Year, New Skincare Resolutions!

by | Jan 22, 2024 | accent aesthetics, skincare colorado, Sun & Skincare

skincare resolutions

2024 Skincare Resolutions

I personally don’t like to make New Years Resolutions, feels like too much pressure. But when it comes to healthy, beautiful skin sometimes we need some guidance. So we’ve compiled a VERY FEW things you can do this year to make life easier but get some results!

1: Simplify your skincare routine

I know skincare is a hot trend right now, and I love that. But a lot of people are using way too many products due to so many being the trendy thing to try. If you are applying 5/6/7 products at one time, ask yourself, how much are these actually absorbing? You are most likely wasting your time and your money. Use 1-3 products that you love and are medical grade and corrective. For example:

Morning Routine:

Cleanse: IF not extremely dry. If you are like a lot of our Colorado clients and extremely dry, it is best to skip cleanser in the morning or use a creamy cleanser. You do not need to spend a lot of $ on a cleanser, it is on the skin for about 15-30 seconds. Use something basic and affordable such as Cetaphil or Cerave. Save your $ for the corrective products.

Antioxidant: This is a product you want to spend your $ on. Topical antioxidants fight free radical damage such as UV radiation, pollution, etc. all of which breakdown your skins’ barrier function and collagen and also create sundamage in the form of reds and brown spots in the skin. A high quality antioxidant will most likely contain Vitamin C. Not all Vitamin C’s are created equal, you want to look for THD, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. This is the most advanced form of Vitamin C.

Moisturizer: If your skin requires extra moisture after your antioxidant then apply. You don’t need to spend a lot on this product either as you have already put the correcting product on.

SPF: Apply your SPF last and use something you love. With all the choices out there these days, it’s very easy. Make sure to reapply mid day.

Nighttime Routine:

Cleanse: I always recommend a double cleanse especially when wearing sunscreen and makeup. This insures a clean, fresh slate for your very important correctives to absorb and work properly.

Retinol or Retinoid: These Vitamin A derivatives are the single most important part of anyone’s skincare routine aside from SPF! Retinoids are most likely prescribed from a doctor and tend to be more aggressive but definitly work. Retinols are mostly over the counter, but come in a variety of strengths and tend to be more time released so they are tolerated well by the skin and therefore can be used more consistently.

Moisturizer: A simple moisturizer will seal in water and prevent water loss. The corrective ingredient is on the skin so your moisturizer doesn’t need to be fancy.

2: Get consistent with professional treatments

Monthly treatments don’t have to break the bank. We offer several membership options to make it easy to be consistent. Treating your skin monthly with either a microdermabrasion, chemical peel, hydrafacial, dermaplane etc. allows us to stay on top of any skin concerns you have and improve them. Consistent exfoliation, extractions and collagen stimulation gets the skin in shape and keeps it there. Think of us as the gym for your skin!

3: Practice better sun prevention

Sunscreen can only protect your skin so much. Here in this Colorado elevation we absorb SO much more UV rays than those at sea level. In order to really prevent sundamage you need to apply spf every 2 hours when outdoors and wear a wide brimmed hat to keep the rays off your face as much as possible. A lightweight neck gator like the ones used for fishing are a great idea to prevent redness, brown spots and wrinkles on your neck and chest.

Simplify your skincare in 2024

Consider a simplified approach to skincare in 2024. Focus on quality rather than quantity, streamlining your routine to include essential steps like cleansing, a high-quality antioxidant with Vitamin C, moisturizer if needed, and reliable sunscreen. Consistency is key, both in your daily regimen and regular professional treatments. With a commitment to sun prevention, including frequent sunscreen application and protective accessories in sun-exposed areas like Colorado, you can look forward to healthier and more radiant skin without the burden of excessive skincare rituals.

skincare resolutions skincare resolutions skincare resolutions skincare resolutions skincare resolutions skincare resolutions skincare resolutions

What is Ozempic Face and How Can it Be Prevented?

by | Sep 8, 2023 | accent aesthetics

What is Ozempic Face?

The Ozempic face hashtag is trending, with 4.5 million views as of mid-February.  The term “Ozempic face”, coined by Paul Jarrod Frank, MD, a New York City dermatologist, refers to a side effect of the Ozempic drug, and of rapid weight loss in general: facial aging, including gauntness and skin sagging.

Significant weight loss in a short time period depletes the skin and body of essential nutrients and can disrupt the endocrine and GI system balance. The skin thins, and loses its elasticity and luster from sudden and rapid depletion of the essential fatty acids that make up the skin barrier function. Its collagen and elastin metabolism is also disrupted, resulting further in sallow, dull, thin skin. Loss of volume, or fat, in the cheeks — also follows rapid significant weight loss.

The skin changes are primarily from nutrition and vitamin depletion over a short period of time. Fat is reabsorbed and atrophies, furthering the aged, gaunt look.

One of the most common things we notice with any form of weight loss in middle-aged and older patients is we don’t all lose it in the areas we want. When we get older, the facial volume changes and shifts around. But when you lose weight so acutely and quickly … we’re seeing these types of changes in their face where it’s actually making them look older.

what is ozempic face

What Can be Done to Treat and Prevent Ozempic Face?

Prevention is always easier than treatment. So if you’ve just started your rapid weight loss journey, start preventative treatments ASAP.

Ultherapy

When a clients main concern is skin laxity and sagging, Ultherapy is at the top of the recommendation list. Ultherapy uses focused ulthrasound to stimulate collagen and elastin at very specific depths in the skin. Depths that typically only a surgical face lift can reach. As these proteins in the skin are created, over several months, the skin is lifted and tightened. Ultherapy is excellent  for both treatment AND prevention of skin aging.

INTRAcel RF Microneedling

INTRAcel™ Microneedling is a skin-tightening and rejuvenating treatment that combines two minimally invasive techniques: deep dermal micro-needling and radio frequency (RF) skin tightening.

INTRAcel treats sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the production of collagen. The radio frequency doesn’t reach as deep as Ultherapy heat but is excellent for tightening and retexturizing the skin as well.

This innovative technology continues to improve the quality of your skin long after treatment. 

Fillers

Dermal fillers are one of the most effective and instant fixes for loss of volume as a result of facial weight loss. There are many to choose from and the outcome does rely on going to an experienced injector.

HA Filler aka hyaluronic acid filler will plump an area right away then continue to draw water to it to keep an area plump. These types of fillers can last anywhere from 6-18 months depending on the type used.

Biostimulating fillers such as Radiesse and Sculptra stimulate collagen over several months, 12-24 months.Though they do take some time, and a series of treatments for best results, they are producing your own, natural proteins, turning back your skins’ clock.

 

Dermal Fillers: Sculptra vs Radiesse

by | Aug 31, 2023 | accent aesthetics, Cosmetic Dermal Filler

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers have become one of the ultimate cosmetic solutions for anti-aging without going under the knife. Some fillers produce instant results, while others take time to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. Sculptra and Radiesse fall into the latter.

Both products initially came to market as a treatment for HIV patients to reclaim lost volume in their face due to lipoatrophy. With such great results in the HIV population, these products were then introduced into the aesthetics industry for age-related volume loss.

Radiesse

Radiesse is a thick injectable filler whose main component is synthetic calcium hydroxylapatite, a mineral with the same chemical composition as the material found in bones and teeth. The injected calcium hydroxylapatite particles function as a scaffold for new tissue growth. Radiesse instantly volumizes the treatment area because the injectable consists of calcium microspheres that provide an immediate support structure beneath the skin. They dissolve after several months, just as the newly formed collagen and tissue appear, resulting in a smoother, rejuvenated look. Radiesse results typically last about one year, with some patients enjoying younger-looking skin for much longer.

Before & After

radiesse logo
Gallery, AdvaTx, Hyperdilute Radiesse dermal fillers, Intracel, Ultherapy, Neurotoxins, chemical peels, IPL, Genesis, microneedling

Sculptra

Sculptra is made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic material that triggers the body’s inflammatory response and stimulates increased collagen production. It provides delayed but longer-lasting results. Sculptra provides gradual results because the PLLA particles act as a foreign body that stimulates increased collagen production. The effects become apparent after several weeks, with the skin’s tone and texture gradually improving in the following months. Sculptra provides the longest-lasting results of all dermal fillers – up to 24 months.

Before & After

sculptra logo
gallery, sculptra dermal fillers

In conclusion, both products are a phenomenal choice for volume restoration. Radiesse can provide immediately results, is safe and effective for most people, with results lasing around a year. Scupltra’s results are delayed and gradual, not an option for individuals with autoimmune diseases or take an anti-inflammatory medicine regularly, lower maintenance, and lasts about 2 years.

Laser Hair Reduction: It’s Time….

by | Aug 14, 2023 | accent aesthetics, Laser Hair Reduction & Removal, skincare colorado

The quest for smooth, hair-free skin has led to a variety of hair removal methods, each with its own pros and cons. laser hair reduction

There are many forms of hair removal. Shaving, waxing, sugaring, tweezing, depilatories and laser.

Most of us throughout our lives will try some or all of these methods.

If you are still struggling with unwanted hair, laser hair reduction is the clear choice!

How Laser Hair Reduction Works

The laser sees the pigment in the hair, for this reason hair must be dark in color for the treatments to be successful. Treating blond or white hairs will result in very little reduction if any. The laser sends its heat and energy into the hair shaft, destroying the bond it has with the follicle. As a result the hair detaches and falls out. Over time and a series of treatments, the follicle ceases to grow more hair.

Now because the laser sees color, it must be done in experienced hands. Many skin types have varying levels of color or pigment. If treated incorrectly or too aggressivly, the laser will disperse it’s heat into the skin instead of the hair follicle causing burning, blistering and possible scarring. It is VERY important that you get treated by someone with knowledge and experience with all skin types.

Preparing for Your Laser Treatment

The root of the hairs need to be in the follicle for treatment, therefore do not wax, tweeze or remove the hair root in anyway. The hair should not be above the skin line though, this will result in burning of the hair and possibly the skin. This will place heat in the hair above the skin and not to the root where it is needed for best results. We recommend shaving the day before or day of treatment.

After Laser Hair Reduction

To avoid possible side effects, all patients need to protect their skin from the sun. After laser hair removal, you should avoid direct sunlight from hitting your skin and avoid using tanning beds.

You may see some redness and swelling after treatment. This often looks like a mild sunburn. Applying a cool compress can help reduce your discomfort. We may recommend applying a topical hydrocortisone cream to help reduce any irritation. These side effects are normal and resolve quickly. Most clients are able to return to their daily activities with no downtime

The Results

You will likely see the results immediately after your laser hair reduction treatment. The results vary from patient to patient. The color and thickness of your hair, area treated, type of laser used, and color of your skin all affect the results. You can expect a 10% to 25% reduction in hair after the first treatment.

To remove the hair, most patients need 4 to 8 laser treatments. All of our laser hair packages come in a series of 6.  After finishing the treatments, most patients do not see any hair on the treated skin for several months or even years. When the hair regrows, there tends to be less of it. The hairs also tend to be finer and lighter in color.

We recommend follow up treatments a few times a year, especially for more stubborn hair.

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laser hair reduction
laser hair reduction

All about the NEW Revision DEJ Daily Boosting Serum!

by | Jul 25, 2023 | accent aesthetics, skincare colorado

Breakthrough Innovation Boosts Skin’s Age-Defying Energy and Optimizes Skin Appearance

Revision Skincare, a leading medical-grade professional skincare brand,  launches its newest innovation in their D-E-J Age-Defying Power Regimen: Revision DEJ Daily Boosting Serum. Designed to improve the healthy function of the skin’s Dermal-Epidermal Junction (DEJ), a critical factor in skin aging, this energizing serum visibly improves radiance and skin firmness while reducing the appearance of fine lines and overall photodamage.

When skin is functioning optimally, it produces all the energy it needs, but over time these levels decline, and due to both intrinsic and extrinsic stressors, skin becomes fatigued. When fatigued skin is unable to behave as it once did, skin can recapture its youthful vitality with the support of an age-defying, cellular energy boost. Revision DEJ Daily Boosting Serum is formulated with patented Sunflower Sprout Extract Technology that is proven to boost skin’s cellular energy, so skin can act younger

“Our unique Sunflower Sprout Extract contains vital molecules that were shown to have an important role in neurobiology. Knowing that the brain and skin develop from the embryonic ectoderm, the Revision Skincare Research and Clinical Development team hypothesized that Sunflower Sprout Extract would be equally important in skin health,” explains Dr. Alisar Zahr, Director of Research & Development, Revision Skincare.” We performed preclinical studies to test this hypothesis and found that Sunflower Sprout Extract was able to light up genes associated with skin barrier health as well as improving cellular mitochondrial energy.”

In addition to Sunflower Sprout Extract, the serum contains a robust antioxidant blend, Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, and other efficacious ingredients to help protect the skin’s energy source, support skin’s natural collagen and elastin, improve noticeable wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, rough skin texture and uneven skin tone, all while strengthening the skin barrier*.

Revision DEJ Daily Boosting Serum works quickly to deliver visible results, with significant improvements in skin appearance over time, according to clinical studies that show:

Immediately after use (within 15 minutes*)

  • 83% of study participants agreed their skin looked hydrated
  • 75% felt their complexion was vibrant and skin appeared plump

After just 7 days* D-E-J Daily Boosting Serum is clinically proven to increase skin radiance, smooth skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Additionally:

  • 100% of study participants agreed that their overall skin appearance was improved, and their skin’s youthful vitality was boosted

After 12 weeks*, the following average improvements from baseline were seen:

  • 41% average improvement in the appearance of skin roughness
  • 28% average improvement in the appearance of skin firmness
  • 22% average improvement in the appearance of fine lines (crow’s feet area)
  • 20% average improvement in the appearance of skin tone evenness (redness)

“From our inception, Revision Skincare has been focused on launching industry-first technologies generating clinically-validated results, and D-E-J Daily Boosting Serum is no different,” adds Maria Carell, CEO and President, Revision Skincare. “We’re excited to continue offering our customers efficacious products that offer results for their overall skin health, both in the short and long term.“

Revision DEJ Daily Boosting Serum joins Revision Skincare’s powerhouse DEJ Age-Defying Power Regimen consisting of DEJ Eye Cream ®, DEJ Face Cream ®, and DEJ Night Face Cream ®. The regimen is available at revisionskincare.com, Dermstore, or your local dermatologist’s office.

Before & After Revision DEJ Daily Boosting Serum

Revision DEJ daily boosting serum
Revision DEJ daily boosting serum