Tuesday, December 22, 2009

How to Age With Grace

The current anti aging discoveries show that if humans ate healthfully, were sheltered from environmental toxins, got adequate exercise and rest, and spent most of their lives away from the sun, their skin would look and feel plump, moist, firm and unlined well into their 60’s and 70’s.

An example of this aging with grace is Sophia Loren, about a month before her 72nd birthday, Sophia Loren was voted the world’s most naturally beautiful person, eclipsing younger beauties such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Anti aging research shows that aging skin is a natural part of getting older, and from the moment you are born your skin begins to respond to two sets of biological processes:

The aging skin “genes” you inherited, over which you have little control. These are the hereditary patterns in your family lineage that predetermine how your face and body respond to the aging process; and the external factors that act on aging skin, over which you have a lot of control.

Everybody ages, and there is little one can do. One thing that can be done is to ensure your skin doesn't show it. Dr. Lisa Benest personally chose these anti aging supplements to reverse or slow the effects of aging. Here is everything you need to get the smooth and youthful looking skin you want.

http://www.lisabenestmd.com

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Tips to Keep Your Skin Smooth and Fresh in Winter

We’re highlighting three products that are essential for Winter. Just because we’re bundled up in sweaters and scarves doesn’t mean that we should forget about our skin until summer. Following these simple steps will keep you more comfortable all winter, and allow you to show smoother, fresher skin when the warm weather returns.

In the winter it is a good idea to switch to an oil-based moisturizer and moisturize frequently. The more oil a moisturizer contains the more effectively it protects against moisture loss. Moisturizers that come as an ointment contain the most oil and form a protective layer on the skin that makes them more “moisturizing” than creams and lotions.

Oil-based Moisturizer -
Moisturizing Complex by IS Clinical: Moisturizing Complex was created to work as a shield for the skin against environmental damages, it moisturizes and hydrates your skin, layers deep! It contains Jojoba Oil which is a natural oil used to help prevent water from escaping the skin, and Glycerin which absorbs and holds moisture. It is a heavier moisturizer, dry or mature skin.

If your facial skin is uncomfortably dry, avoid using harsh peels, masks, and alcohol-based toners or astringents, all of which can strip vital oil from your skin. Instead, find a cleansing milk or mild foaming cleanser, a toner with no alcohol, and masks that are "deeply hydrating," rather than clay-based, which tends to draw moisture out of the face.

Foaming Cleanser -
Cleansing Gel by Exuvience: This face wash contains no artificial fragrances, but its natural fruit acids and botanical extracts, give it a light fruity smell. Great for most skin types but it is not ideal for someone with dry, sensitive skin. Also an excellent makeup remover, one pump with the foaming action...and you're set!

Don’t forget the sunscreen. Snow if more reflective than sand, making winter sunscreen as important as summer protection. Look for a SPF 30+ sunscreen with an oily, moisturizing cream. If you are unsure of which product to use, ask your dermatologist.

SPF 30 with Moisturizer -
Elta SPF 30 - UV Facial with Moisturizer: This sunscreen was specifically designed to provide moisturizing UV protection for the face, either alone or under makeup. It is a light, fluffy moisturizing base with an elegant feel. Great for all skin types.

To learn more about or order any of these products (or others) feel free to visit our product store online! Click here.

Read the rest of the article these Winter Skin tips came from here.

http://www.lisabenestmd.com

(These are great products to treat your loved ones...or yourself! Give them a gift to enhance their beauty, youth and confidence - they won't forget it! Happy Holidays!)

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Winter Skin Blues – and Itchy, Cracked Reds

By Lisa Benest MD


Winter can bring snow, crackling fires, holidays with friends and family… and dry, irritated, red and cracked skin. So, while you’re making your list and checking it twice, don’t forget your winter skin care regimen.

Here are a few things you can do to keep your skin moisturized and comfortable as that cozy winter sweater.

Use a humidifier. With heat on and windows closed, the air inside can become very dry. Placing two or three small, relatively inexpensive humidifiers around your home will help to humidify the dry air and keep skin from becoming cracked and itchy. Hydrating your body by drinking water will also help keep you comfortable all winter long.

Switch to an oil-based moisturizer and moisturize frequently. The more oil a moisturizer contains the more effectively it protects against moisture loss. Moisturizers that come as an ointment contain the most oil and form a protective layer on the skin that makes them more “moisturizing” than creams and lotions.

If your facial skin is uncomfortably dry, avoid using harsh peels, masks, and alcohol-based toners or astringents, all of which can strip vital oil from your skin. Instead, find a cleansing milk or mild foaming cleanser, a toner with no alcohol, and masks that are "deeply hydrating," rather than clay-based, which tends to draw moisture out of the face.

Wear gloves outside. Protect your hands from cold air and low humidity. Make sure the gloves are made from material that does not irritate your skin. And don’t forget to moisturize your hands (and your feet, too).

Dress in layers. Common causes of sweaty, itchy skin are sweating and overheating. Wearing layers allows you to remove clothing as needed to prevent overheating. Be sure to wear loose-fitting cotton fabrics next to your skin. And if your clothes or shoes get wet, take them off as soon as you get inside as wet clothes will also irritate the skin.

Don’t forget the sunscreen. Snow if more reflective than sand, making winter sunscreen as important as summer protection. Look for a SPF 30+ sunscreen with an oily, moisturizing cream. If you are unsure of which product to use, ask your dermatologist.

Treat it if it gets worse. Sometimes winter skin gets so dry it results in flaking, cracking, or even eczema. If this happens, see your dermatologist and get the right treatment for your skin type.

Just because we’re bundled up in sweaters and scarves doesn’t mean that we should forget about our skin until summer. Following these simple steps will keep you more comfortable all winter, and allow you to show smoother, fresher skin when the warm weather returns.

Dr Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank. She and her staff provide comprehensive skin examinations as well as an array of non-invasive, cosmetic procedures and offer a full line of skin care products. To learn more about skin rejuvenation as well as the most up-to-date lasers, schedule a Free Consultation with their cosmetic nurse. Check out their website for a complete list of all the treatments: www.lisabenestmd.com


She can be reached at:

1624 W. Olive Ave #B 

Burbank, CA 91506 

818-729-9149 

www.lisabenestmd.com


(Technorati Claim Code: UBWKX4R758W2)

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Overall Body Beauty Package

These three products are a great package for overall body beauty!

For the morning -
Corium 21: Corium 21 is an Aloe-based face and body cream, great for cracked heels and dry elbows! It contains a specific family of Aloe known for its healing properties. Reaching many layers deep, the pure Aloe Vera softens your skin, increases circulation and stimulates and repairs your skin down to a cellular level.

For the shower -
Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash: "This product is highly effective in removing dead skin cells as you wash in the shower or bath. It contains glycolic acid at a high enough concentration to slough off old, dry skin leaving the skin smooth and silky to the touch. Yet this body wash is gentle enought for daily use."

For the night -
Glytone Retexurize Body Lotion: "This lotion contains distinctive emollients and glycolic acid to smooth and hydrate the skin. It has more than 4-5 times the glycolic content of even the strongest over-the-counter moiturizer and rids your skin of dry, sun damaged skin and dead skin cells leaving a soft, smooth fell that you'll love to touch"


To learn more about or order any of these products (or others) feel free to visit our product store online! Click here.

(These are great products to treat your loved ones...or yourself! Give them a gift to enhance their beauty, youth and confidence - they won't forget it! Happy Holidays!)

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Organic Skin Care Products - A Package Great for the Holidays!

These three Organic Skin Care Products are a great package for the holidays! To treat your loved ones (or yourself!) give them the gift to enhance their beauty, youth and confidence. All of the products from this line contain a base of organic aloe vera, organic Japanese green tea and organic French chamomile.

The first step is the Image Skincare Organic Solar Defense. This is an Organic moisturizer safe for daily use on all skin types. It is formulated chemical- free with antioxidants and 31% zinc to leave your skin nourished and protected all day. It is water resistant, safe for use on infants and is even safe to use while pregnant or breast-feeding! We all know the importance of keeping your skin safe from the sun. Read more about it here.

A good facial cleanser is essential in your nighttime routine. Image Skincare Organic Balancing Facial Cleanser is true to its name, it balances the pH of skin and eliminates the need for a toner. In addition to the base of ingredients listed above, this organic cleanser also contains a rich mango pulp giving it a fresh feel and scent. It leaves the skin soft, hydrated and clean. This a very effective but gentle cleanser good for all skin types, especially sensitive or dry skin.

Image Skincare Organic Balancing Soothing Gel Masque to be applied after cleansing, you can even sleep in it! An ultra gentle masque for compromised skin that may be inflamed or irritated, such as from procedures or irritating acne or anti-aging creams. This product also contains copper, zinc and vitamin K which helps reduce redness and irritation while restoring a natural healthy balance to your skin. Can be used with rosacea or acne prone skin.

To learn more about or order any of these products (or others) feel free to visit our product store online! Click here.

Happy Holidays!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

FOREVER YOUNG

By Lisa Benest MD


Who among us doesn’t want to cheat the aging process and look younger than our years? Who doesn’t love being told how young they look, or what beautiful skin they have? Who wouldn’t want to look “forever young?”

“Forever young” skin starts with Prevention. A few simple practices and a regular at-home skin care regimen are vital for maintaining a younger, healthy appearance. Plenty of water for hydration, sun protection, gentle cleansing, a healthy diet, vitamins, exercise and avoiding stress all contribute youthful skin.

But even with a prevention routine in place, wrinkles, lines, facial sagging and sun damage can occur and add years to your appearance. This is when you should consider the wide range of non-surgical procedures available through your Dermatologist. These treatments include injectible fillers, chemical peels, antioxidant brightening and lightening peels and cosmetic lasers.

INJECTIBLES
Your dermatologist uses two types of injectibles – relaxers and fillers. Relaxers, such as Botox® and Dysport, lessen muscle reactions so that the overlying skin becomes smoother. Injectible fillers, such as collagen, Restylane®, JuvĂ©derm®, Perlane and Radiesse restore lost volume by plumping up wrinkles and firming sagging spots.

PEELS
Chemical peels enhance your skin’s appearance by reducing blotchy and uneven pigmentation and fine lines and renewing sun-damaged cells. Antioxidant brightening and lightening peels fade stubborn dark patches and restore the skin’s natural smoothness using vitamins C & E, Green Tea Extract and other natural ingredients.

LASERS
Cosmetic lasers are the latest developments in advanced skin care. Lasers treat wrinkles by tightening skin tissue, prompting the production of collagen and elastin, and removing sun damage by breaking up pigment. Active FX and Total Fx are fractional lasers for aged or sun-damaged skin. The Active FX/Total FX Laser Treatment reduces wrinkles and fine lines, softens deeper frown lines, noticeably improves skin tone and texture, stimulates new collagen formation and plumps the skin.

Lasers can also be used to reverse the effects of photoaging. Sun damage makes us look older than we are. Surface skin can be rejuvenated to get rid of sun-damaged cells and stimulate the body to make new, healthy skin cells. Many dermatologists now recommend laser or light source treatments, such as Photo-Rejuvenation or Active FX/Total FX. Photo-rejuvenation uses the IPL (intense pulsed light) laser to restore a natural youthful beauty to skin with no “downtime,” and stimulates the growth of collagen and elastin, which gives the skin a much more youthful texture.

Yes, you can look “forever young.” Talk to your dermatologist about how you can fight the aging process.

Dr Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank and offers extensive procedures in cosmetic skin care, using the latest and most up-to-date lasers and medical equipment. She is known for her exceptional care and service. Visit them for a FREE consultation with their cosmetic nurse specialist.

Lisa Benest M.D.
1624 W. Olive, Suite B
Burbank, CA 91506
818-729-9149
www.lisabenestmd.com

Monday, November 16, 2009

Welcome Dr. Booth!

We are very excited to announce that we have a new doctor to join us! Dr. Alexandria Booth received her medical degree from UCLA School of Medicine and completed her dermatology training at NYU. Dr. Booth is board certified in dermatology and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. She enjoys and is proficient in all aspects of Dermatology, including medical, cosmetic and surgical Dermatology. Dr. Booth is known for being friendly and caring.

"She is kind, well-informed and extremely professional." - A.

Welcome!

http://www.lisabenestmd.com

Monday, November 9, 2009

Latisse Special - Buy two and get one free!

Latisse solution is a prescription treatment to grow eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and even darker. It is the first and only FDA approved treatment for eyelash growth.

Yes, it really works!! Many of the staff in our office are using it and loving the results!

We are currently offering a special on Latisse. Buy two and get the third one free! This is savings of $120.00! (You can use the third or give it as a gift - the holidays are coming up!)

Offer good while supplies last! If you have already bought Latisse from our office, you may order it over the phone and have it shipped to you. Call 818.729.9149.

http://www.lisabenestmd.com

(1624 West Olive Ave., Suite B Burbank, CA 91506)

Monday, November 2, 2009

Best of Citysearch

Hello everyone!

Right now we need your help to be nominated in the ‘Best of’ competition! When the page opens there’s an orange button saying, “Nominate for Best of Citysearch” click that and select: Facial, Skin Care and Laser Hair Removal.

Voting begins on the 12th so we’ll need your help again if we get nominated! Thank you for your help!

Click here to vote!

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Looking as Young as You Feel

By Lisa Benest MD

“I'm not interested in age. People who tell me their age are silly. You're as old as you feel." - Elizabeth Arden

Forty is the new thirty. Fifty is the new forty. Sixty is the new forty! Today we are staying active and youthful for years, even decades longer than did previous generations. We eat healthy, exercise, stay mentally fit, all to keep us feeling and acting younger than our years might otherwise suggest. But what about our skin? Do those fine lines around the eyes and mouth suggest wisdom over youth? What about wrinkled or sagging skin? Does it point to the march of age? Nothing gives the impression of youth more than a beautiful, healthy complexion.

Over the counter creams and solutions, spa treatments and a good diet all contribute to that youthful complexion, but as we age, those things just aren’t enough. That’s when we turn to medical advancements in the field of dermatology to target and comprehensively handle all those skin imperfections that affect how we view ourselves, and how others view us.

Cosmetic lasers are the latest developments in advanced skin care. Lasers treat wrinkles by tightening skin tissue, prompting the production of collagen and elastin; removing sun damage by breaking up pigment; treating rosacea by reducing broken blood vessels; and simply removing unwanted hair. Our Skin Care and Laser Center in Burbank, CA uses Active FX, a revolutionary fractional laser for aged, sun-damaged or acne scarred skin. The Active FX Laser Treatment will reduce wrinkles and fine lines, soften deeper frown lines, noticeably improve skin tone and texture, stimulate new collagen formation and plumps the skin.

In addition to lasers, the office offers a wide range of non-surgical procedures, including injectable fillers like collagen, Restylane®, JuvĂ©derm®, Botox®, Dysport and chemical and other peels, to enhance the appearance by reducing blotchy and uneven pigmentation, fine lines and renewing sun-damaged cells. The antioxidant brightening and lightening peels which boost the skin using vitamins C & E, Green Tea Extract and other ingredients will fade stubborn dark patches and restore your skin’s natural smoothness.

Our Board Certified doctors can even treat and control embarrassing outbreaks of adult acne!

At our Skin Care and Laser Center, you’ll find dermatologists and nurses who dedicate their expertise and artistry to making your skin look the best it can be. We have been featured in Pasadena magazine, Cosmetic Surgery Times and on ABC News. We were recently awarded the Patients' Choice Award for 2008, and voted a Top Doc in Pasadena by Pasadena Magazine, and Best Dermatologist in Burbank, CA by The Burbank Leader.

Our team of doctors and nurses understand the desire we all have to be as beautiful and healthy as we can be. Whether you have a medical or a cosmetic skin care need, we blend the latest advances in skin care into the experience and wisdom of medicine. Visit us for a FREE Consultation with our Cosmetic Nurse Specialist to find out how we can help you look as young as you feel!

Lisa Benest M.D.
1624 W. Olive #B
Burbank, CA 91506
818.729.9149
www.lisabenestmd.com

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Dysport has arrived! About DYSPORT® Cosmetic

Like Botox, Dysport is a modified version of botulinum toxin A that is administered by injection and inhibits the facial muscle contractions that lead to forehead furrows, frown lines and crows feet.

Dysport has proven to be safe. In fact, it's been used in Europe, Asia and South America for more than a decade. Always keep in mind that Dysport is a prescription treatment and should be administered only by medical professionals who have the training and clinical understanding of the muscles and expressions of the face and the skill to retain natural expressions while reducing the signs of aging.

See before and after photos.

Fast Facts on DYSPORT Cosmetic
Here are some of the most important things you need to know if you are considering DYSPORT Cosmetic at our Burbank treatment center.

Area Treated and Results:
DYSPORT relaxes the facial muscles on the forehead, frown and crows feet, thereby reducing and smoothing away frown lines and wrinkles.

Treatment Interval:
In most patients, Dysport lasts approximately 4 months, at which point another treatment is administered to maintain the desired results.

Number of treatments required:
A single treatment can keep your skin looking smooth and youthful for about 4 months. After this time, the facial muscles which originally caused the wrinkles will begin to contract once again, unless a follow-up treatment is administered.

Treatment Time:
DYSPORT takes just 10-15 minutes. This makes it ideal to receive during lunchtime or a short break from work! You will be in and out of our office quickly.

Recovery Time:
There is no recovery time and makeup may be applied immediately after treatment.

Results:
Smoother skin around the eyes and on the forehead, with softened wrinkles. You will still retain the ability to make a full range of facial expressions.

If you are ready to schedule your San Fernando Valley / Los Angeles DYSPORT Cosmetic treatment, contact us online for a Free Consultation with our Cosmetic Nurse Specialist. You can also call our Burbank office at 818-729-9149. We look forward to helping you enhance your appearance!

http://lisabenestmd.com/cosmeticlaser/cosmetic/dysport.html

Monday, August 17, 2009

Healthy Skin Is Beautiful Skin

Improving your image may help the way you feel about yourself, but it may also convey a more professional message.  While it is certainly true that beauty does come from within, there are some simple steps that you can take to enhance your outer appearance as well.  It is apparent that our society places a high value on youth.  Much money is spent on beauty creams and potions, various procedures to rejuvenate the skin, and even plastic surgery.  Each person must decide how much effort and expense they are willing to contribute toward their presentation.  While this would include many aspects, such as hair and clothing, as a Dermatologist, I would like to address the skin.


Rejuvenating the skin can be viewed on a gradient approach.  There are creams and superficial, light procedures that help give the skin a fresher glow or soften some of the lines and age spots.  For more dramatic improvement there are laser procedures.  These are stronger than face creams and peels, so they work more effectively, albeit cost more.  Beyond that there is plastic surgery, which typically results in the greatest improvement, with understandably higher expenses.  


For those who are looking for a simple boost, without the high price tag, here are some tips.  First, what you put into your body affects how well it functions.  That is not news to most people.  The skin is our largest organ and it is chock full of cells that are growing and duplicating.  Cells need quality food to be healthy and fulfill their jobs. Organic foods, free of pesticides and hormones nourish our cells so that they are not trying to survive amidst a sea of chemicals.  Certain foods, such as sugar and white flour, stress our cells the most, and contribute to overall inflammation in our bodies.  This translates into more irritated skin and more WRINKLES.  Some foods, such as fish (wild caught is best) and fresh fruits and vegetables, help reduce cellular inflammation.  Wrinkles are also formed by repeated motions, such as by frowning or along the lips by smoking.  Eventually, the skin creases where these motions have been made over and over again.  Supplementing with anti-oxidant vitamins can minimize some of the damaging chemicals we encounter daily, such as from pollution.  Two antioxidants that are helpful for wrinkles are alpha lipoic acid and DMAE.  Fish oils (EPA/DHA) are also excellent anti-inflammatory supplements that keep our skin healthy and also more youthful.  CoEnzyme Q10 is also a crucial antioxidant for keeping the body’s organs functioning at its best.


What you put onto your skin can affect the way it feels and looks as well.  There are some brands that use all organic ingredients.  Some products contain topical vitamins, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea, alpha lipoic acid, CoEnzyme Q10, and more.  With good formulations, these antioxidants can penetrate the skin at higher concentrations than what you could get with internal supplements.  You could expect to notice a smoother, even complexion, and healthier looking skin.  An added bonus is that some of these topical vitamins, especially vitamin C, help protect your skin from the damage due to the sun’s rays.  The cells are more able to repair themselves after injury from ultraviolet radiation, the type of harmful rays put out by the sun, which contribute to aging skin and skin cancer. 

   

Dr. Lisa Benest is a general and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank.  She and her staff provide comprehensive skin examinations as well as an array of non-invasive, cosmetic procedures and offer a full line of skin care products.  To learn more about skin rejuvenation as well as the most up-to-date lasers, schedule a Free Consultation with our cosmetic nurse.  Check out our website for a complete list of all our treatments: http://www.lisabenestmd.com


Lisa Benest M.D.

1624 W. Olive #B

Burbank, CA 91506

818.729.9149

http://www.lisabenestmd.com

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Young Looking Skin – At Any Age!




Taking good care of your skin is important. In fact, proper skin care is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy, youthful appearance throughout your life. But proper skin care changes as you age, and you need to know the best skin care regimes for your age and for some common skin problems and conditions.

Teens and 20s

Puberty and the transition into adulthood bring about huge changes in skin. Hair becomes thicker and oiler, as does the complexion. Practicing proper cleansing techniques is vital. Skin should be cleansed twice daily; washing more frequently can trigger an over-production of oil. Maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet, including drinking plenty of water between meals, can also help keep skin clear and blemish free.

But sometimes cleansing and diet is just not enough to prevent teen and young adult acne. For acne that does not clear up with cleansing, a dermatologist can prescribe a topical medication, or even antibiotics.

These years are also the time to establish a life-long commitment to protecting skin from sun damage. Using sunscreen, wearing a hat and/or clothing with UV protection and avoiding too much sun exposure will help prevent skin cancer or premature aging.

Skin in the 20s can start to show subtle signs of photodamage and “social aging” – from smoking, drinking or excessive tanning. Antioxidant creams as well as lighter procedures, such as chemical peels can keep your skin from premature aging.

30s and 40s

While most men have outgrown acne by their 20s, many women continue to suffer from acne into their adult years. In addition, this is the time when the signs of aging can begin to appear – pigment irregularity, fine lines and wrinkles and loss of elasticity.

Skin in the 30s and 40s can benefit from a variety of noninvasive procedures, including Botox, fillers like Restylane, Perlane or Juvederm, chemical peels and noninvasive lasers. A consultation with a dermatologist can determine which approach is right for you.

Adults should also adapt their skin care regimes to incorporate cleansers and moisturizers specially designed for more mature complexions.

50s, 60s and Beyond

As skin ages, different problems emerge. Some men and women experience rosacea, which is characterized by redness and pimples on the face in addition to flushing in response to certain triggers, such as caffeine, wine or stress. Rosacea can be treated with creams, laser and avoiding specific triggers.

Mature skin definitely benefits from facial rejuvenation, although you are more likely to avoid major interventions during this time if you have had preventative procedures during your 30s and 40s. Rejuvenation treatments include Botox and fillers, as well as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and ReFirme Skin Tightening, or even more extensive procedures, such as Active FX and Total FX. Again, your dermatologist can recommend a rejuvenation treatment that is best for you.

Older skin can also get dry and flaky; frequent application of gentle, effective moisturizers is critical for keeping skin well hydrated and less itchy. Moisturizer should be applied at least once a day, preferably after a bath or shower when the skin is still damp. Have any suspicious growths examined, and if you or your family has a history of skin cancer or excessive sun exposure, be sure to have a thorough checkout from your dermatologist once a year.

Following these few simple guidelines can help your skin stay young looking and healthy, whatever your age.

Dr. Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank, CA. She and her staff provide comprehensive skin examinations as well as an array of non-invasive, cosmetic procedures and offer a full line of skin care products. To learn more about how to take care of your skin as well as the most up-to-date treatments in skin care, schedule a Free Consultation with our cosmetic nurse. Check out our website for a complete list of all our treatments: http://www.lisabenestmd.com/

Lisa Benest M.D.
1624 W. Olive #B
Burbank, CA
818-729-9149

http://www.lisabenestmd.com/

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

ActiveFX for Great Effects!

By Lisa Benest MD

Time is not kind to our skin. Brown spots, wrinkles and laxity can make us look even older. If you:

• Have a busy lifestyle or cannot be away from work for a long time
• Want noticeable results with minimal downtime
• Want to treat discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity

you should speak to your dermatologist about ActiveFX. ActiveFX yields noticeable, long lasting results after just one treatment. Procedures are done in your doctor’s office, with minimal patient downtime and minimal interference to your work or busy life.

Laser Skin Resurfacing
ActiveFX is a fractional laser treatment for laser skin resurfacing. Laser skin resurfacing replaces damaged skin with new, fresh skin. Using the UltraPulse® CO2 laser, an ActiveFX treatment delivers thousands of tiny laser pulses in a pattern over the skin. Each pulse heats a column of tissue, eliminating pigment discolorations at the surface, smoothing out lines, wrinkles and scars, and creating a zone of heating deep in the tissue. This deep heating contracts existing collagen and further stimulates collagen formation to plump out the skin and continue improvement over time.

In an ActiveFX fractional laser treatment, only a fraction of the skin’s surface is treated by the laser, leaving small “bridges” of untouched skin. This technique makes the healing process much faster and enables you to get back to normal activities sooner.

The primary targets of laser skin resurfacing include:

• Fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the upper lip, cheeks and forehead
• Loose eyelid skin
• Crow's feet around the eyes
• Pucker marks (smoker's lines) and frown lines
• Brown spots and splotchy, uneven skin tone
• Scars, especially acne scars
• Loose skin around the neck and jowls

An ActiveFX treatment
Most physicians perform the procedure in the office with a topical anesthetic cream that is applied 30-40 minutes before the ActiveFX procedure begins. Pain is managed using a cold air blower to the skin, or if desired with oral pain medication. You can drive yourself home after the procedure if you have not taken any pain pills. With a gentle washing and moisturizing regimen, your photo-damaged skin will begin to flake off within 2-3 days. After about 3-5 days, your doctor will probably let you wear make-up. Pinkness should be gone in about a week or two, a little bit more for the neck area.

The results of ActiveFX laser treatment are long-term and, with proper sun protection, can persist for many years. Most effects of treatment become visible right away, whereas others – such as new collagen formation – build up gradually and become more evident over time. Therefore, most people look even better 3-5 months after the procedure. So, if you think that ActiveFX might be right for you, make an appointment with your dermatologist and start looking younger right away.

Dr. Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank and offers extensive procedures in cosmetic skin care, using the latest and most up-to-date lasers and medical equipment. She is known for her exceptional care and service.

Visit them for a FREE consultation with their cosmetic nurse specialist.

Lisa Benest M.D.
1624 W. Olive, Suite B
Burbank, CA 91506
818-729-9149
http://www.lisabenestmd.com/index.html

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Plump Up the Volume!

Lisa Benest MD

Wrinkles, lines and facial sagging add years to your appearance. But you can fight back to keep your youthful appearance. Your dermatologist uses two types of injectibles – relaxers and fillers - to reverse those signs of aging. Relaxers, such as Botox, lessen muscle reactions so that the overlying skin becomes smoother. Fillers restore lost volume by plumping up wrinkles and firming sagging spots.

RELAXERS
Many wrinkles are actually creases that are worn into the skin by repeatedly making the same expression. Botox injections smooth wrinkles by safely relaxing overactive muscles, thus allowing the creases in the skin to smooth out. Botox is especially effective in treating frown lines, horizontal lines across the forehead, crows’ feet and vertical lip lines (“smoker’s lines”).

Botox treatments consist of approximately 10 minute sessions. There is no down time after your treatment, which means that you can apply make up immediately. Results typically last about four months, after which the muscles begin to contract once again. As an added bonus, if you begin your Botox regime early enough (say, in your 30’s or 40’s), it can prevent deep wrinkles from ever forming in certain areas.

FILLERS
For areas that Botox won’t handle, your dermatologist might recommend a dermal filler, a substance injected below the skin to fill up and soften the wrinkles. The effectiveness and duration of results depends on which filler is used, what area is being treated, and how each patient interacts with the specific filler.

Fillers come in three main types: those that stimulate collagen and tissue growth, those that replace lost volume with “filler” material, and those that both stimulate and replace.

Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm and Radiesse are examples of the last type: they are smooth gels that keep the skin plumped and stimulate the production of new collagen to lift and fill. Common areas treated in this manner include the nasolabial folds (“smile lines”) and the marionette folds under the mouth. Fillers are also very effective in the cheeks, for restoring youthful fullness, as well as the lips.

In most cases, these fillers last nine months, although in some instances the treatments can last for over a year.

The treatment options for minimizing lines and wrinkles, as well as lifting up the downward sag on the face are many and varied. However, not all products are appropriate for all treatment areas. Consult with your dermatologist about which product is right for you. And regain your smooth, youthful appearance today.

Dr. Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank, CA. She and her staff provide comprehensive skin examinations as well as an array of non-invasive, cosmetic procedures and offer a full line of skin care products. To learn more about how to take care of your skin as well as the most up-to-date treatments in skin care, schedule a Free Consultation with our cosmetic nurse. Check out our website for a complete list of all our treatments: www.lisabenestmd.com


Lisa Benest M.D.
1624 W. Olive #B
Burbank, CA
818-729-9149
www.lisabenestmd.com

Friday, January 23, 2009

Wrinkles - Be Gone!

Lisa Benest MD

Who doesn’t love a baby’s skin – so soft, smooth and perfect. But as we grow, our skin loses that perfection of youth and reflects our life experiences. Wrinkles, age spots and saggy skin can be signs of wisdom and experience, but they can also make us look older than we care to appear. The good news is that today we have more and more non-surgical alternatives that help us to look - and feel - younger. Additionally, non-surgical procedures have minimal recovery times, and can provide instant results!

Dermatologists offer many non-surgical approaches to restoring or maintaining beautiful and youthful skin, including:

Injectibles

There are two types of injectibles: relaxers and fillers. Relaxers, such as Botox, relax the muscles so that the skin that lies over them becomes smoother. It can take from a few days to two weeks for the full effects of a Botox treatment to be seen, but the results last up to four months. Patients using Botox report looking up to five years younger and less stressed. Fillers, such as Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse, Perlane and Collagen replace lost volume by plumping up wrinkles and firming sagging spots. Local or topical anesthetic creams minimize any discomfort involved. Bruising and swelling are temporary side effects, so fillers should not be used for several days before important events. However, the results can last up to six months, and fillers can unwrinkle deeper lines than Botox can reach, as well as work in areas that are not a candidate for Botox.

Lasers

Non-ablative lasers are intense, focused beams of light that lessen signs of aging like brown spots, acne scars and wrinkles. They can also help remove unwanted hair. And unlike ablative laser treatments, which are more aggressive and can cause superficial burning, non-ablative lasers are less invasive and conduct heat to deeper dermis stimulating collagen synthesis. Examples of non-ablative lasers include: IPL, Fotofacials, Trinity and ReFirme. The ablative lasers, such as Active FX/Deep FX will affect deeper layers of the skin, and thus provide even better results with the fine lines and wrinkling.

Peels

There are many different types of peels, and results depend on both the ingredients and how long the peel is left on the skin. Chemical peels can enhance your appearance by reducing blotchy and uneven pigmentation, fine lines and renewing sun-damaged cells. Many offices offer antioxidant brightening and lightening peels, which boost the skin using vitamins C & E, Green Tea Extract and other ingredients to fade stubborn dark patches and restore your skin’s natural smoothness. Chemical peels take 20 minutes and are done once a month until the desired results are obtained. Other types of peels include Green Peel (a 5-day deep herbal peel), Vi Peel, Mesoclat, Fruit Peels and Glycolic Acid Peels .

Dr. Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank. She and her staff provide comprehensive skin examinations as well as an array of non-invasive, cosmetic procedures and offer a full line of skin care products. To learn more about skin rejuvenation as well as the most up-to-date lasers, schedule a Free Consultation with our cosmetic nurse. Check out our website for a complete list of all our treatments: www.lisabenestmd.com


Lisa Benest can be reached at:
1624 W. Olive Ave #B
Burbank, CA 91506
818-729-9149
www.lisabenestmd.com