Author
coloradoskin1
July 6, 2022
Benefits Of Stem Cell Therapy Treatment For A Meniscus Tear
Knee problems are one of the most commonly reported issues by patients who visit orthopedic physicians. Since the knee joints go through so much stress every day, there is a high chance that these weight-bearing joints will become injured or damaged at some point during our lifetime. One of the most common injuries athletes report is a meniscus tear. This injury can happen instantly as a result of a sudden change or twist in the knee position. However, the treatment and recovery for meniscus tears are not generally as fast. Patients who undergo surgery for these injuries can spend up to five months in recovery. To avoid having to go through surgery for this type of injury, more medical professionals are turning to stem cell treatment for a meniscus tear.This type of non-surgical treatment comes with various benefits to patients. Treatment for a Meniscus Tear When patients suffer from meniscus tears, they can undergo surgery. However, surgery does not actually repair the damaged cartilage in the knee. Instead, it is a process that involves removing torn pieces of the meniscus, which can leave it more vulnerable. Unfortunately, many patients experience continued knee pain after meniscus surgery. Instead of performing surgery, specialists are exploring the benefits of stem cell therapy for meniscus pain relief.Stem cell therapy is beneficial because it allows patients to receive knee pain treatment without surgery.This type of treatment provides many benefits when compared to traditional surgical treatment. Unfortunately, the invasive nature of meniscus repair surgery is not something patients want to deal with. There is a long recovery process that is painful and time-consuming. It can also disrupt the lives of busy adults and leave them unable to fully bear weight or engage in any athletic event for several weeks. When surgery is performed on the meniscus, patients often continue to experience discomfort and pain. The meniscus is cut away and weakened instead of repaired and improved. For this reason, many people are turning to stem cell therapy to improve their meniscus recovery. Benefits of Stem Cell Therapy for a Meniscus Tear There are many benefits to using stem cell treatment instead of surgery to repair the meniscus. Stem cell therapy allows the meniscus to repair itself. Stem cell treatment for a meniscus teardoes not require invasive surgery or a lengthy recovery period. Instead, patients can undergo a same-day procedure that generates stem cells around the damaged area to promote the healing of the injured tissues. This procedure involves a quick, in-office injection of stem cells guided by fluoroscopy or ultrasound. Patients are then sent home that day. A patient is injected with stem cells and encouraged to walk on the same day of treatment to promote faster healing. Patients will begin to see results in the area within three to four weeks after receiving their injections. If a patient’s injury caused severe damage, they may be required to undergo a second injection approximately four weeks after their initial injection. Stem cell therapy has benefits beyond repairing the tear. It also helps to decrease nerve damage and improves the function of cartilage in the knees. Patients further benefit from stem cell therapy because it drastically reduces their dependency on pain medication used to help relieve joint pain. See How Stem Cell Therapy Could Be the Best Choice for You Stem cell therapy is quickly becoming one of the safest and non-invasive alternatives to meniscus surgery for patients. This therapy provides quick results without needing a lengthy and painful recovery. Our Colorado Skin and Vein team has years of experience helping patients find relief from knee and joint pain. We are dedicated to helping our patients live pain-free and recover quickly from their injuries. Our focus on stem cell therapy is to help you receive permanent relief without requiring intensive and invasive surgery. If you want or are still curious about stem cell therapy for your meniscus tear, contact our Colorado Skin and Vein team to see how this procedure can help you.
June 21, 2022
Causes Of Restless Leg Syndrome
If you’re familiar with restless leg syndrome, you know just how frustrating – and painful – it can be. Restless leg syndrome doesn’t just impact your legs either; it impacts your ability to fall and stay asleep, which can have detrimental effects on you and your life. But what exactly causes restless leg syndrome? Below, we’ll go over what restless leg syndrome is, what causes restless leg syndrome, what the symptoms of restless leg syndrome are, and restless leg syndrome treatment. What is Restless Leg Syndrome? Restless leg syndrome, also called Willis-Ekbom disease, is a nervous system disorder that causes you to experience an intense and uncontrollable urge to move your legs. It usually happens when you’re sleeping or sitting or lying down for an extended period of time. Restless leg syndrome usually happens before bed and can prevent you from falling asleep, staying asleep, and getting quality rest, which has led doctors to classify it as a sleep disorder as well. People who have restless leg syndrome also typically suffer from varicose veins, which are enlarged blood vessels that cause veins in the legs to swell and are often painful. What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome? The cause of restless leg syndrome isn’t always known, however, there are a few known causes and triggers. 1. Genetics: Restless leg syndrome can run in your family, and this is often believed to be the cause if symptoms present themselves before the age of 40. Scientists have found a chromosome that has specific sites where restless leg syndrome genes can present themselves as well. 2. Dopamine dysregulation: Scientists have also found that restless leg syndrome is related to the area of the brain called the basal ganglia. The basal ganglia controls movement and muscle function with the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine helps your nervous system regulate and control movement by communicating between the brain and nervous system. If nerve cells in your brain have sustained damage, the amount of dopamine present in your brain becomes reduced, which results in involuntary movement and muscle spasms. Dopamine levels naturally taper off at the end of the day, and this is why it’s believed that restless leg syndrome symptoms are worse at night. 3. Iron deficiency: It’s not entirely clear how iron deficiency or anemia plays a part in restless leg syndrome, but there is a connection between the two. Iron deficiency affects other areas of the brain, and it’s believed that this could impact dopamine regulation. 4. Chronic diseases: Some chronic and long-term diseases include restless leg syndrome as a symptom. These include Parkinson’s disease, kidney failure/renal disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, and peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage). 5. Pregnancy: The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester, can trigger the onset of restless leg syndrome or make existing restless leg syndrome worse. Pregnancy-related restless leg syndrome typically goes away following the pregnancy. 6. Medications: Some medicines can make symptoms worse or trigger restless leg syndrome while in use. These include antipsychotics, some antidepressants, cold and allergy meds that contain antihistamines, and anti-nausea meds. 7. Lifestyle: Certain lifestyle factors are restless leg syndrome causes. A lack of sleep, sleep disorders like sleep apnea, being overweight, chronic stress, excessive alcohol and/or caffeine consumption, and smoking are all linked to restless leg syndrome. What are Restless Leg Syndrome Symptoms? There are five basic criteria and symptoms that must be present to diagnose restless leg syndrome. They are: An uncontrollable and overwhelming urge to move your legs that feels painful or uncomfortable The urge to move starts or gets worse during times of rest The urge to move starts or gets worse at nighttime The urge dissipates with movement There’s no other cause of the urge to move, such as leg cramps, muscle spasms, or arthritis What Are Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment Options? Unfortunately, there is no cure for restless leg syndrome but, there are treatment options that can help you manage symptoms. The restless leg syndrome treatments include: Getting regular exercise Following a sleep schedule Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and smoking Leg massages Hot baths Heating and ice packs Dopaminergic drugs Benzodiazepines Magnesium supplements Anti-seizure meds Narcotic pain relievers Restless leg syndrome is a lifelong disease that can be difficult to live with. Working with your doctor to understand what might cause or trigger your restless leg syndrome is the best way to manage your symptoms. To learn more about restless leg syndrome or to seek treatment for varicose veins that might be making your restless leg syndrome worse, contact us today!
June 14, 2022
Pico Lasers Vs. Q-Switched Lasers For Tattoo Removal
Remember when you were considering getting that tattoo and everyone told you that you better make sure you really think about it before committing because tattoos are forever? Well, that’s no longer technically true. There have been advances in tattoo removal systems. Some of the earlier options included dermabrasion; which removes layers of the dermis and epidermis to remove your ink, skin excision; which is the surgical removal of the tattooed skin, and tattoo removal creams; which promise the removal of your tattoo with a lotion-like cream. Those methods were not only painful, but they also left visible damage to the skin or simply weren’t truly effective at removing tattoos. Thanks to advances in laser technology, if you want to remove a tattoo, you can do so much more effectively and without damaging your skin. If you have a tattoo that you want to get removed – for any reason at all – you’ve got much better options today for how to do so. The two most common types of lasers are the Q-switch lasers and the PicoSure laser for tattoo removal. Below, we will go over how laser tattoo removal works, the main differences between the two lasers, general tattoo removal costs, and whom to turn to when you find yourself searching for ‘tattoo removal near me’. How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work? The process of getting a tattoo involves ink injection into the skin through a needle. The needle can be a singular needle poked by hand, which is often referred to as a ‘stick n poke’ tattoo, or by a tattoo gun, which is a machine that pricks the skin thousands of times per minute. The ink goes into the dermis, the layer of skin below the epidermis. When you get a tattoo removed with a laser, the laser is applied to the area of skin where the tattoo is. The heat from the laser shatters the ink particles in your dermis, starting with the topmost or most shallow layer of ink. The particles of shattered ink are then flushed out through your lymphatic system. It takes multiple sessions of laser tattoo removal to remove your tattoo completely. The number of sessions and the tattoo removal cost will depend on a few factors such as how old the tattoo is (older tattoos are easier to remove because your body’s immune and lymphatic system have already started wearing down some of the ink), what colors are in the tattoo (black and grey are easier to remove than colors), the type of laser used, and how your body responds to treatment. Every body is different so what works best for someone else might not work best for you. What is a Q Switch Laser? A Q switch laser is a type of laser tattoo removal that’s non-invasive and effectively removes tattoos without damaging the skin. The first commercially available type of laser specifically made for tattoo removal was a Q-switched laser in 1983. The phrase ‘Q switch’ refers to the type of pulse that’s created by the laser. Instead of a continuous laser beam, like traditional lasers, the Q switch creates a photo-thermal pulse beam that lasts about one billionth of a second. The pulses are strong enough yet brief enough to shatter the ink without damaging any skin. They were originally considered to be the gold standard of tattoo removal, but with advances in laser technology, they’re quickly being outpaced by Pico lasers for tattoo removal. What is a Pico Laser? A Pico laser is like the Q switch, but it’s faster and more effective. Pico lasers for tattoo removal were given FDA approval for use in 2012. They use photomechanical technology lasers to deliver rapid pules – which are one trillionth of a second – to the tattoo to shatter the ink. Patients who use the Pico lasers for tattoo removal typically receive fewer treatments overall, which reduces the overall tattoo removal cost and reports a faster recovery time after each session. Pico lasers are also better at targeting colored ink than their predecessors are. When it comes to tattoo removal, any laser option is going to be better for your skin than the older and more abrasive methods of removal. At Colorado Skin and Vein, we use the PiQo4 Pico laser for tattoo removal, which is the newest and fastest version of the Pico laser and our patients are more than satisfied with the removal process.But don’t just take our word for it; scroll through these incredible tattoo removal before and after shots to see the laser in action. To learn more about laser tattoo removal or to schedule an appointment with our team, contact us today!
May 18, 2022
Spider Veins May Signal A Bigger Medical Problem
When people develop spider veins, they often wonder what the veins on the back of their legs or their face are. Spider veins are small red, blue, and purple veins easily visible below the skin. These veins contain one-way valves that keep blood flowing in one direction back to your heart. When these valves stop working, it means they are weak or damaged and become visible, resembling a spider web. People who develop spider veins on their legs, face, or even pelvic area often notice them and ask, “What causes spider veins?” Spider veins may appear for a number of reasons. These include genetics, holding occupations that require you to stand for long periods of time, obesity, birth control pill use, hormone replacements, a history of blood clots, pregnancy, and more. What many people may not realize, however, is that those small spider veins can reveal more significant health issues. If you notice spider veins in your skin, there are treatment options to consider. If you are worried that your spider veins are a sign of something serious, call your healthcare provider to discuss spider vein treatment and other options. Do Spider Veins Indicate Bigger Health Concerns? When people develop spider veins, they are often primarily concerned with the visible changes to their skin. In many cases, spider veins alone are not cause for alarm, and they often present few symptoms. However, some cases of spider veins can indicate more significant health problems. Here are a few more serious health concerns associated with spider veins: 1. Venous Disease By themselves, spider veins do not cause health problems, but they can be an early indicator of venous disease. All the veins in your body are interlocked in an elaborate system. Spider veins can indicate unhealthy changes in larger veins, such as circulation problems and unhealthy increases in pressure. Venous conditions, such as chronic venous insufficiency and deep vein thrombosis, increase pressure in affected veins, which can cause other problems, such as a venous stasis ulcer. If you have developed large clusters of spider veins, you should seek an examination to rule out any underlying circulation issues. 2. Systemic Diseases Somespider veins on your legs or face may actually be spider angioma. Spider angioma veins look almost identical to spider veins, except they have a red spot with a reddish “web.” There may also be reddened skin around the veins. If someone has multiple spider angiomas, there is a possibility that they could indicate a more serious health condition, such as chronic liver disease. In fact, multiple spider angiomas are indicative of chronic liver disease with an observed specificity of 95%. 3.Lymphedema Another condition that is often signaled by spider veins is lymphedema. The lymph system is a network of special tissues, vessels, and organs that carry lymph, or white blood cells, throughout the body. The transport of lymph is critical for fighting certain diseases and infections. Lymphedema refers to a buildup of fluid in soft tissue when the lymphatic system is either damaged or blocked. Symptoms of lymphedema may include swelling of the arms or legs, as well as spider veins. If left untreated, lymphedema can lead to various types of cancers. If you notice spider veins in addition to swelling, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. While mild cases of spider veins can indicate somewhat benign health conditions, it’s important to keep an eye on spider veins, especially if they become more serious. That’s because the small networks of veins could indicate larger health issues that need to be addressed by your healthcare provider. If you are worried about the appearance of spider veins on your skin and want to learn more about causes and treatment options, contact us at Colorado Skin & Vein.
May 10, 2022
Are Varicose Veins Harmful?
At some point in their lifetime, approximately one-third of adults develop varicose veins. Varicose veins are swollen blood vessels under the skin on your lower body. They usually bulge, are blue and purple, and can appear on your ankles, feet, or legs. Additionally, they are commonly surrounded by spider veins. You may find your varicose veins unsightly, and you’re probably wondering, “Are varicose veins harmful?” The answer may surprise you. Varicose veins may make you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, but they are usually not harmful. Common symptoms of varicose veins may include burning or throbbing in the lower legs, increased pain after sitting or standing for long stretches of time, heavy or achy legs, and changes in skin color around the varicose veins. Over time, these symptoms may worsen, which is why you may want to consider varicose veins treatment. If you have noticed varicose veins on your skin, there are treatment options available. A visit with your healthcare provider can help you answer any questions you have about varicose veins as well as address any other concerns you may have related to treatment. It’s important to discuss any discomfort and find the best treatment option that works for you. What Causes Varicose Veins? Varicose veins appear when the walls of your veins weaken. As your blood pressure increases, your veins swell, and the valves that move blood in one direction cannot work as they should. Blood that is flowing more slowly pools in your veins, causing varicose veins. Veins weaken and appear for several reasons. The most prevalent causes of varicose veins include hormones, the aging process, being overweight, wearing tight clothing, and standing or stretching for long periods of time. In fact, hairdressers, teachers, retail industry workers, bartenders, and healthcare workers are most likely to develop varicose veins over time due to extended periods of standing at work. While varicose veins usually do not indicate severe illness, it’s important to have them examined by your healthcare provider. Doctors diagnose varicose veins by pointing out the obvious signs, as well as with an ultrasound. This pain-free exam uses sound waves to produce pictures of your tissues and can show blood clots as well as valve function. Varicose Veins Treatment Although no cure exists for varicose veins, there are several treatment and management options you can consider to decrease your discomfort. Try elevating your legs above your waist several times of day to increase blood flow and lower pressure in your veins. Additionally, you can wear compression stockings to prevent your veins from stretching. Other treatment options include sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a fluid into your veins to help them stick together and dissolve, as well as laser therapy, which is used to block a damaged vein. Your doctor also may recommend ligation and stripping, a surgery that involves tying off the infected vein to prevent blood from pooling and then stripping the vein to prevent the reappearance of varicose veins. Importantly, about half of the people who undergo varicose vein surgery see their veins reappear in five years. If you are considering varicose veins treatment and are wondering how to get insurance to pay for varicose vein removal, call your healthcare provider first. Many insurance companies will cover the costs of varicose vein removal if you are highly symptomatic or if it is medically necessary. You may be able to work with your doctor to make such a case to your insurance provider so that you can access treatment more affordably. Varicose veins can look unpleasant and cause discomfort, but there is typically no reason to be alarmed when they pop up. Still, if you’ve started to notice varicose veins on your skin, you may have other questions. If you live in Denver or the surrounding areas, the professionals at Colorado Skin & Vein are here to answer your questions and provide solutions related to varicose veins treatment and management.
April 24, 2022
How To Prepare For Treatment Of Facial Redness And Broken Capillaries
Skin conditions can crop up at any time in life for virtually any reason. One of these skin conditions, rosacea, is fairly common. In fact, more than 14 million people in the U.S. live with rosacea, and most people who have the condition are between the ages of 30 and 50. So what is rosacea? It’s an inflammatory condition characterized by broken capillaries on the face, facial redness, prominent facial blood vessels, red bumps, and pustules. For people who have rosacea, the severity of breakouts varies, as well as the underlying causes. For some, rosacea is marked by redness or flushing, as well as visible blood vessels. For others, rosacea causes thickened skin, red or irritated eyes, and even breakouts that resemble acne. While the exact cause of rosacea is still unknown, autoimmune conditions and genetics may play a role. Rosacea treatment also varies, with some forms being treatable by oral antibiotics and others treated by certain types of lasers. If you are determining the best rosacea treatment for you or have already scheduled an option, it’s important to prepare accordingly. Treatment options range in time and intensity, so speak with your healthcare provider about steps you can take before and after your treatment so that it goes as smoothly as possible. Before you know it, your treatment will be finished and your rosacea symptoms will hopefully improve. Preparing for a Rosacea Treatment for the Best Outcomes Rosacea can be treated with oral antibiotics minocycline and doxycycline, isotretinoin, various topical medications, a pulsed dye laser, and a CO2 laser. The type of rosacea treatment you choose determines how you should prepare for it, but there are a few best practices dermatologists recommend for anyone who has rosacea. Over time, these steps can help your skin feel more comfortable, improve the overall health of your skin, and reduce the occurrence of rosacea flare-ups. Here are a few tips for how to prepare for treatment of facial redness and broken capillaries on the face: 1. Cleanse your face daily. According to dermatologists, one factor that increases the severity of rosacea is not washing skin enough. Many people who struggle with rosacea have irritated skin, and cleansing the face might make it feel more irritated. However, gently cleansing the face before bed and when you wake up removes the oil and dirt that can worsen the severity of rosacea. To get the best results, choose a mild cleanser that is rosacea-friendly, apply the cleanser gently with your fingertips, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat your face gently with a towel. 2. Moisturize every day. Moisturizing your skin each day traps water in your skin, which can reduce irritation and make your face feel more comfortable. Importantly, moisturizing daily also helps patients see better results from rosacea treatment. In one study, rosacea patients applied a rosacea treatment gel all over their face and a moisturizer on one side. After 15 days, the moisturized side of their faces had visibly less drying, peeling, and roughness. 3. Use sun protection. While it’s great to spend time outdoors and soak up vitamin D, exposure to sunlight can actually exacerbate rosacea symptoms. To prevent excessive flare-ups due to sun exposure, apply sunscreen each day before heading outdoors. To best protect your skin, look for sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium oxide, silicone, broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and make sure it is fragrance-free. Dermatologists recommend applying sunscreen even on cloudy days, as sun exposure is still a risk. 4. Focus on rosacea-friendly skincare. When it comes to face cleansers and moisturizers, it’s important to remember that skincare is not one-size-fits-all. Before you buy any products, read the list of ingredients before you buy them. Steer clear of any products that contain any irritants, such as alcohol, camphor, fragrance, glycolic acid, lactic acid, menthol, sodium laurel sulfate, and urea. When it comes to rosacea and skincare, it’s important to remember that your skincare routine can make all the difference in the effectiveness of rosacea treatment. Before beginning treatment, consult with your healthcare provider about which products to use, especially when it comes to cleansers and moisturizers. For more information about treating rosacea, contact the professionals at Colorado Skin & Vein to discover your options.
April 9, 2022
What To Expect In A Thread Lift Treatment
Many people who think about a facial refresh but don’t want to undergo surgery often consider brow lift treatments. What is a polydioxanone (PDO) thread lift? It’s a non-surgical facelift that uses dissolvable sutures to lift and tighten the skin. Gravity happens to all of us, but a PDO thread lift can help to combat the inevitable effects of aging. The way it works is pretty simple. Originating in South Korea, the PDO thread lift uses sutures with molded barbs that lift sagging skin to the desired area and then anchor it into place. This treatment instantly lifts the skin and tightens fat tissue, encouraging collagen production. Conveniently, this type of lift requires only local anesthesia, leaves minimal scarring, and most patients recover very quickly. In fact, many patients can go back to work or return to their scheduled activities the same day. If you’re considering undergoing a PDO thread lift procedure to freshen your face (or having a fox eyes procedure), it’s important to know what to expect before, during, and after the treatment. While this type of brow lift is minimally invasive, there are a few precautions to take. Talk with a practitioner at Colorado Skin & Vein to find out if a PDO thread lift is right for you. What to Expect from a PDO Thread Lift Treatment Before undergoing any procedure, it’s important to talk with the practitioner about what to expect from the treatment, including potential outcomes. If you are undergoing a PDO thread lift, there are a few important questions to answer, even though the treatment is quite simple. Here are a few typical questions from brow lift patients: Am I An Ideal Candidate for a PDO Thread Lift? Over time, our skin loses collagen and starts to age, resulting in sagging skin. If you are an adult who has noticed sagging skin in the neck, jowls, or jawline, or you have noticed crow’s feet or marionette lines or sunken cheeks, then you are ready for a thread lift treatment. Importantly, a PDO thread lift works best if you have maintained the same weight for at least three months, have a healthy diet, and get plenty of exercise. What’s the Time Commitment for a Typical Treatment? While many types of facelifts take anywhere between two to four hours, PDO thread lifts are much less time-consuming. In fact, the typical treatment only takes about 45 minutes, depending on the number of areas targeted. This includes the time it takes for the local anesthesia or numbing agent to take effect, as well as the threading procedure. What Results Should I Expect? Most patients notice a lifting of the skin immediately after the procedure ends. Also, they may notice visible changes in the contours of the jawline and cheeks, as well as reduced lines and wrinkles in the face and neck. Also, because the treatment encourages collagen production, firmer and smoother skin will be even more visible in the weeks and months following the lift. Importantly, results tend to last anywhere between nine months to a year post-treatment. Do I Need to Devote Any Time to Recovery? While recovery depends on each person’s response to treatment, the general answer is no. There is no downtime required after a thread lift. Most people who undergo treatment return to their regular schedules the same day. However, it’s important to remember to sleep on your back for at least two weeks following the procedure and avoid making dental appointments or doing any activities that require you to leave your mouth open for extended time periods. Additionally, your physician can advise you of when it’s safe to resume an exercise routine, so always consult with your doctor after treatment to answer any questions. If you are looking for a minimally-invasive way to get younger-looking skin instantly, consider a PDO thread lift treatment. If you have any questions about lifts and other aesthetic procedures, get in touch today to learn more.
March 20, 2022
Is There Any Upkeep With Laser Hair Removal?
Do you wish you had less hair on your legs, arms, face, bikini area, or back? Body hair can cause frustration and embarrassment, especially if the hair is located in a hard-to-hide place like the upper lip. That’s why so many people turn to non-invasive laser hair removal to get rid of unwanted hair. Laser hair removal relies on the power of safe lasers to cause the hair follicles below the skin to become inactive. Once they become inactive, the follicles stop producing hair. Though laser hair removal isn’t a permanent solution, it promises smoother, silkier skin without the need for constant shaving, waxing, or threading for many months. You can stop worrying about annoying hair and start feeling more confident about your appearance. After looking up “laser hair removal near me” and “How much is laser hair removal?” and planning accordingly once you get your answers, you’ll have to get ready for the procedure. In particular, you should plan how you’re going to take care of your skin post-treatment. Below are some of the most important laser hair removal “to-dos.” Keep Your Treated Skin Away From the Sun As you might suspect, your skin will be sensitive after undergoing aesthetic laser hair removal treatment. This is natural. To protect your skin, wear a sunscreen of at least SPF30 and avoid going to tanning beds. Even a mild case of sunburn can lead to blistering, pain, swelling, and skin discoloration. Consequently, stock up on sun protection products and use them generously. Avoid Moisturizers With Fragrances Most people who’ve had laser hair removal use moisturizers to keep their skin calm and soft. Yet some moisturizers contain potential irritants and allergens in the forms of fragrances and coloring. Even if you love wearing a moisturizer that smells good, only use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers on laser-treated areas. Tame Your Use of Body Scrubs After Laser Hair Removal Body scrubs can feel great in the shower but may be too rough for lasered skin. For the first few days or week after undergoing the laser hair removal process, stay away from scrubs. You will be able to use them again once your skin has fully recovered and isn’t as tender. Avoid Using Deodorant Are you planning to have your underarm hair removed? Though it might be a little hard to imagine, avoid putting on any deodorant or antiperspirant for several days. What should you do instead to control sweating? Wearing light, breathable fabrics and avoiding too many layers can help you feel fresh. So can sponging off your underarm area with cool, mildly soapy water a couple of times a day and after rigorous activities. Note Unexpected Changes in Your Skin Most people respond to laser hair removal treatment predictably. That said, there is always the chance that you might experience an unexpected change in your skin. If that happens, just call the practice where you received your laser hair removal. The professionals there will be able to offer advice on how to proceed. Resist the Temptation to Wax or Pluck Your initial laser hair removal appointment will remove up to 25% of your unwanted hair according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. Each subsequent appointment four to six weeks later will remove even more. Nevertheless, you can expect to have some hair remaining. While it’s fine to start shaving again, don’t wax or pluck your hair. Waxing and plucking further irritate and damage hair follicles. Shaving is much gentler. Laser Hair Removal Maintenance Ultimately, laser hair removal maintenance requires very little attention. You only have to make sure that you’re treating your skin well and following any post-treatment recommendations given to you at your laser hair removal appointment. Ready to spend less energy worrying about your unwanted leg, body, or facial hair? Consider laser hair removal. The upfront investment of your laser hair removal cost will more than pay for itself in the money you’ll save when you don’t have to constantly buy new razors or pay for waxing appointments. For more on laser hair removal, get in touch today.
March 15, 2022
How Can I Quickly Get Rid Of Cellulite?
Lumps. Bumps. Dimples. Cellulite goes by many colloquial names. However, many people misunderstand what it is — and how to get rid of cellulite and its appearance. If you have been pestered by cellulite for far too long, read on to find out about cellulite and cellulite treatment options that work. What Is Cellulite, Anyway? At the most basic level, cellulite is caused when fibrous bands form between the skin and muscle. Rather than stretching and flexing, the bands grip the skin. This causes the skin surface to become uneven. Cellulite is particularly common in women and frequently shows up on the legs, bottom, hips, and abdomen. It can sometimes be seen elsewhere, such as the upper arms. Every case of cellulite tends to be unique. Some people have a predisposition for developing cellulite that’s been passed down through the generations. Other people realize they have cellulite after losing or gaining weight. Regardless of why cellulite occurs, it’s often considered an unappealing nuisance. Is There Any Way to Permanently Get Rid of Cellulite? There are several ways to treat the appearance of cellulite. These treatment methods do not necessarily get rid of the cellulite but can make the skin seem tighter and smoother. Consequently, the problem of cellulite is solved even if the bands connecting the muscles and skin remain inflexible. Some of the most common cellulite treatment methods include: Radiofrequency Energy Processes like the Profound® RF treatment system rely on radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin. As the skin becomes firmer and the energy encourages collagen production, the skin loses its signature cellulite bumpiness. It is worth noting that the Profound RF treatment has other uses as well, such as adding volume to sagging facial skin. Exercise Some people who have cellulite find success in reducing their cellulite appearance by engaging in cardiovascular and strengthening exercises. As they build muscle and burn calories, they change the amount of fat between the muscles and the skin. The result is a smoother area with reduced dimpling. Nutrition Along with exercise, those with cellulite may want to clean up their diets. A healthier diet rich in whole, nutritious foods can work to reduce weight gain-related cellulite. For instance, some women who see cellulite around their stomachs find that eating fewer processed, fatty, and sugary foods helps. Creams If you want a topical cellulite treatment you can apply at home, consider trying some of the more reputable skin firming creams with or without retinol that are available on the market. This is not a fast fix and can take months to reveal softer, smoother skin. Nevertheless, creams give you one more weapon in the battle against unwanted cellulite. Massage Numerous men and women with cellulite feel that their cellulite is less noticeable after a professional massage. Though the cellulite doesn’t actually disappear, the skin may look more toned for a few hours after the massage. When combined with other cellulite treatments, massage can work well. Plus, it reduces stress as an added side benefit. No time to get to a masseuse? Use a loofah sponge to stimulate your cellulite-prone areas. Surgical Procedures Minimally invasive and invasive surgical procedures such as subcision and liposuction are used by some people to address cellulite. However, any surgery should be discussed with your primary care physician. Even if you want your cellulite to go away quickly, you may be better off trying non-invasive treatments first. How Can I Avoid Getting More Cellulite? You have the appearance of your cellulite under control, thanks to a variety of treatments. Great! But you want to ensure that more doesn’t appear somewhere else on your body. The best way to stop preventable cellulite is to avoid fad dieting and work out on a regular basis. And if you notice any cellulite forming as you get older, address it immediately instead of waiting until it gets worse. Want to discuss your cellulite treatment with a professional who can give you personalized advice? Contact Colorado Skin & Vein today to learn all the ways that you can finally say goodbye to the look of frustrating cellulite. Smoother, younger, more attractive skin is within your reach!
February 28, 2022
Painful Migraines? Botox Can Help!
Migraines are horrible, and everyone who suffers from them knows it. They can cause everything from nausea and light sensitivity to intense pain and all-over fatigue. Yet finding migraine relief can be challenging. Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs either don’t work well or have unwanted side effects. That’s why so many people turn to BOTOX® treatments. How Does BOTOX Deliver Instant Migraine Relief? You probably associate BOTOX with cosmetic procedures such as reducing the look of wrinkles and lines on the face. However, BOTOX has become a well-respected, trusted, and safe migraine relief solution as well. The key to understanding why BOTOX works for migraines is to get a better understanding of what it is. BOTOX is an injectable product that, when placed under the skin, temporarily blocks nerve responses. Essentially, the nerves go into a state of relaxation and don’t contract. This leaves the skin above the nerves much smoother. When used as one of the best migraine relief options, BOTOX is delivered via injection into specific areas around the face, neck, and head. The BOTOX interferes with the signals that cause migraine pain. You may still get migraines but they will affect you less intensely thanks to BOTOX injections. What to Expect From BOTOX Migraine Relief Treatments If you decide to receive regular BOTOX injections to address your migraine discomfort, you should know what to expect. The first thing is that you should only get BOTOX from a reputable practice, like Colorado Skin & Vein. The second is that you can count on a comfortable experience. Finally, you may need to go for regular BOTOX injections depending on how your body responds to BOTOX migraine relief treatment. Some people get instant migraine relief after the first time BOTOX is administered. Others need to undergo several BOTOX injection sessions before they see improvements. The Benefits of Receiving BOTOX for Migraines There are several important reasons to try BOTOX for migraine management. Below are some of the biggest: Less chance of side effects: The side effects of BOTOX, such as short-term aching in the neck, tend to be very minimal compared to the side effects of more powerful migraine medications. Immediate relief from migraine pain: Many people report feeling an immediate difference in the level of their migraine pain after undergoing BOTOX injections. More time for work and pleasure: Losing whole days to migraines can put tremendous pressure on you, your workplace, and your family. BOTOX migraine treatment can ensure that you get back those lost hours. Fewer migraine incidents per year: Sometimes, BOTOX patients find that they have fewer migraines annually than they did before trying BOTOX. Though this doesn’t happen in all cases, it’s a huge advantage for migraine sufferers who spend far too much time in pain. Additional Migraine Management Methods BOTOX is the best thing for migraine relief, but it’s not the only thing. Some other suggestions to help you ward off migraines and migraine pain include: Know your migraine triggers. When you can anticipate a potential migraine incident, you can sometimes slow it or stop it. Try a little caffeine. Some migraine sufferers swear that going into a cool, dark room and drinking a caffeinated beverage at the onset of a migraine helps it go away faster. Just don’t overdo it. Additionally, make sure you hydrate with water afterward. Get on a regular sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking at around the same time means less sleep deprivation, which is a condition that can lead to migraine development. Improve your nutrition and exercise. Eating healthy meals and working out routinely get your body in the best possible shape. Remember that some foods may trigger your migraines, such as those containing certain chemicals. Trying BOTOX for Migraine Relief If you’re ready to try BOTOX as a migraine treatment, contact Colorado Skin & Vein. Our team will help you arrange a series of BOTOX treatment appointments and move you one step closer to migraine relief.