Intense Pulse Light Treatment

There are so many factors that play a significant role in the look, feel, and overall wellbeing of your skin. Anything from using the wrong product for your skin type to overexposure to the sun can result in skin disposition. One of the most challenging of these is damage that affects your skin’s pigmentation. Dermatologists can attest to the difficulty that persists when clients are battling pigmentation issues. One of the most reliable treatments for tackling same is Intense Pulse light treatment. Both women and men have consistently turned to IPL treatment rather than exhausting their resources on less effective methods. So, what is IPL and is it for you?

What is Intense Pulse Light Treatment?

Intense Pulse Light treatment is a photorejuvination treatment that focuses primarily on irregular pigmentation, sun damage, and discolouration or brown spots on the surface of the skin or face. Using rapid flashes of light, it goes beyond the surface of the skin and breaks down the irregular pigment into tiny particles, which rise to the skin’s surface, or is disposed of courtesy of the lymphatic system. IPL uses a series of wavelength of light and as a result, does not disrupt your skin in any negative way. Common to the procedure however, is the redness of the skin. Additionally, the treatment requires no downtime so, you can schedule treatments without detrimental scheduling conflicts.

Is IPL for you?

Intense Pulse Light treatment is ideal for any individual who recognizes unusual pigmentation or brown spots on the face and neck. If you do not want to commit to much more time-consuming and intensive procedures, IPL is for you. Some patients see results from the first treatment alone. However, dermatologists recommend three to five sessions for optimal results.

Before you engage in treatment, be sure to check with your doctor to ensure the treatment is conducive to your overall health and any pre-existing medical conditions.

Try something that works, is efficient, and effective. If you think IPL is for you, call our office today and book your consultation to get things started.

Tackling Those Pesky Little Cold Sores

Winter is coming. And by now, you’ve probably started to acquire objects like scarves, coats, and those cute brown boots you’ve been waiting to plant in the sea of fallen leaves on the sidewalk.These things are natural to your encounter with the changing seasons, but so are cold sores. They are simply unwelcomed accessories. Cold sores can ruin any outfit and become the centerpiece of an important conversation. At Rao Dermatology, we want to keep the attention on you not your sore. Consequently, this brief article will discuss the nature of cold sores and your best strategy for combating their existence.

What are Cold Sores?

Chi et. al, in a study 2015 study on interventions for the prevention of HSL, formally defines cold sores (Herpes simplex labialis) (HSL) as a common disease of the lips caused by the herpes simplex virus. “It presents as a painful vesicular eruption, forming unsightly crusts, which cause cosmetic disfigurement and psychosocial distress”. From a procedural aspect, the HS virus usually infects the body through a break in the surface of the skin around or inside the mouth. It spreads through the touching sharing, or interaction with a cold sore or any tool or material that has been used by someone who is infected (i.e. kissing or sharing utensils, etc.) Cold sores can also spread to other areas of the body. Signs of an existing cold sore may include sore throat, swollen glands, pain around the mouth/lips, and a fever. Doctors will usually make the official diagnosis.

Preventative methods

While there is no cure for cold sores, a lot of research has been invested in treatments and preventative methods. However, once the herpes simplex virus is in your body it remains there for the remainder of your life. Doctors often prescribe ointments, skin creams, and in some instances, oral medication. The 2015 study conducted by Chi. Et al, found that long-term use of antiviral drugs taken by mouth prevented cold sores. On the other hand, short-term use of either antiviral drugs or creams did not prevent cold sores. Further, the use of these antiviral drugs or creams, either long term or short term, appeared to cause side effects. While prevention and treatment is limited to the confines of your doctor’s recommendations, you can limit your chance of contracting the HS virus by actively refraining from sharing materials and utensils that transmit saliva. If you have a partner, talk about any previously contracted viruses to avoid contamination through kissing and don’t be afraid to speak with your doctor, together.

For more information on combating your cold sore, contact Rao Dermatology today and book your consultation.

Trusculpt

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Shape your body without surgery!

That stubborn fat is so frustrating. No matter what you do – eat healthy and exercise like crazy– you just cannot remove that extra roll of fat around the tummy, love handles, and back. Liposuction still gives the best results for clients, but some just don’t want the hassle of surgery and its downtime.

What’s the answer?

Trusculpt, a nonsurgical fat reduction procedure that uses heat to eliminate stubborn fat and tighten skin. It utilizes breakthrough radiofrequency to deliver deep heat resulting in apoptosis, also known as fat cell eradication, resulting in a more sculpted silhouette.

Is Trusculpt The Right Treatment For You?

The best candidates for this procedure are men and women with a normal body mass index, who have localized excess fat despite a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Trusculpt is a treatment used to help shape and sculpt the body but is definitely not a weight loss procedure.

If you are looking for body shaping procedure without surgery and downtime that actually works, come see us for a free consultation.

Conditions it treats:

Fat

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

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The Power of your Blood!

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) has become a highly sought-after non-surgical procedure for facial and skin rejuvenation.

The treatment uses your own blood platelets to stimulate new cell growth, helping to improve your complexion, skin texture and to restore lost facial volume.

The concentrated platelet rich plasma contains increased concentrations of certain growth factors and proteins that promote new capillary formation, collagen production and damaged tissue repair. These bioactive growth factors facilitate accelerated tissue repair and promotes skin rejuvenation.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Edmonton

PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. It is also known as the Vampire Face Lift. It involves blood being drawn from a patient, and the blood is then put into a centrifuge to separate the platelets and serum from the blood cells. The resulting concentrated solution is enriched in platelets and growth factors. Once this solution is injected into the skin, it can dramatically aid in tissue repair and promote collagen.

How can PRP be used to enhance your skin and appearance?

The PRP, injected into particular areas of the skin, act as a matrix that promotes your own collagen and regenerated tissue to result in improved tone and tightened skin. PRP is great for scarring, facial rejuvenation, dark under eye circles, and even hair loss in both men and women. This treatment is highly effective and the best part is that it uses only the body’s own natural
functions.

Usually 3 PRP treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart are recommended for ideal results.

How does PRP therapy differ from Dermal Fillers?

Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane and Emervel, are made of solid material that fills lines and wrinkles. These fillers are quick fixes to soften deeper lines and folds. They usually last 6-18 months and a repeat treatment is then required to fill the area again.

PRP on the other hand stimulates your own collagen for total facial rejuvenation. PRP is used for individuals to volumize their faces by plumping out cheek indentation, soften under eye hollows, address hyperpigmentation, and improve the overall skin tone and texture.

Both PRP and fillers can be used in conjunction as they supplement each other to give the best final outcome: a more youthful looking face.

Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (or PRP treatment) is rapidly becoming a must have procedure if you wish to stay young. It is a great maintenance and treatment choice for all individuals as it harnesses the natural forces of your body.

What does PRP therapy involve?

PRP therapy involves using blood samples taken from patients. These samples are then placed into a centrifuge, which is used to separate the platelet plasma. The platelets contain growth factors and those are then injected into areas where they are needed in order to encourage the production of new collagen, keratin and more.

What to expect from PRP therapy?

If you undertake PRP therapy, you can expect to start seeing results within the first few weeks. Many patients report that they look and feel generally healthier, with glowing, vibrant and healthy skin.

These benefits can last for long periods, potentially as long as 18 months. PRP is also a very non- invasive procedure. It is well regarded by the scientific community and there is ample evidence to support its effectiveness. With all this in mind, it makes the ideal choice for anyone who is looking for an effective and non-invasive solution to treat wrinkles and other problems.

PRP is also commonly used to treat sports injuries, it can be effective against chronic pain and it is used to accelerate healing and recovery following surgery. It is increasingly being sought out for cosmetic purposes now too and for literally reversing the aging process, by allowing patients to ‘heal themselves’.

Book your PRP consultation by filling in the form below.

Conditions It Treats:

Microneedling

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Reveal A Radiant Complexion

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedure.

The needle pokes the skin to create a micro-injury. This not only stimulates collagen, but also creates channels to allow the direct infusion of serums deeply into the skin.

The serums can be platelet rich plasma or effective antiaging solutions that contain growth factors and hyaluronic acid to combat aging even further.

The plumping of the skin, filling in of fine lines and scars, and improvement of discoloration are all achievable with microneedling.

About Our Microneedling Treatments

If you’re tired of fine lines, wrinkles, and the other common signs of aging but don’t want to undergo a surgical procedure, our innovative facial and body rejuvenation treatment may be the right fit for you!

The dermal roller microneedling system, also known as skin needling, is a minimally invasive method of stimulating collagen development in the treated area to produce more youthful, natural-looking results over time.

Microneedling FAQ

How Does Microneedling Work?

A fine needled device is used to pierce the skin to create a controlled skin injury. Each puncture produces a channel that triggers the body to heal these microscopic wounds by producing new collagen and elastin, causing the cells to regenerate and repair. These miniature fissures jump-start the body’s natural healing process, stimulating elastin and collagen production which results in improved skin texture and firmness, as well as a reduction in scars, pore size, wrinkles, stretch marks and more.

What Are the Benefits of Microneedling?

Microneedling offers a variety of benefits to your skin without the need to resort to invasive techniques. In addition to treating common signs of aging, microneedling can potentially:

Restore skin resiliency
Reduce the appearance of acne and surgery scars
Diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and creases
Minimize hypo-pigmentation
Reduce stretch marks
Fade dilated blood vessels

Dermal roller microneedling has been shown to be particularly effective on smoker’s lines, which can be sometimes difficult to successfully address with dermal fillers and other treatments.

Microneedling offers gradual rejuvenation of the treated area, and you can expect to see improvement over the course of several weeks, with the final results visible after several months. You may also repeat the procedure as often as you wish, as soon as one week after the previous session. Dr. Rao will develop a customized treatment plan based on your expressed goals.

How Long Does the Treatment Take?

In general, the whole procedure takes between 20-30 minutes depending on the area being treated.

Is There Any Downtime?

Unlike fractional laser therapy, Microneedling does not cause thermal (heat) damage to the skin. As a result, there is less redness, swelling, and downtime, and a minimal risk of side effects. This makes it a suitable treatment for all skin types and skin colors, and is an excellent choice for those patients who are seeking results without downtime.

The skin may be pink or red in appearance for 24-48 hours, much like a sunburn with some minor bleeding and very occasionally some mild bruising.

The skin may also feel warm, tight and itchy for a short while. Generally, the inflammatory reaction of the skin is overall usually short and fades significantly after a couple of days on average, depending on the skin color of the individual.

Patients with a more sensitive skin types or older patients may find it takes a little longer to recover fully.

Does It Hurt?

A numbing cream on the skin is used before the procedure in order to render the procedure painless. Nonetheless, some pressure sensations will still be felt, although these should not be painful.

When Will I See the Results?

Patients may witness a noticeable glow to their skin. More visible changes to the skin will develop over the course of several days and weeks. Results will continue to improve for several weeks after the treatment as collagen production continues.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Some patients may only require a single treatment, once per year, to achieve optimal results. However, it is recommended for most patients to receive a series of 2-3 treatments spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. For patients with deep wrinkles, advanced photo-aging, stretch marks or acne scars, it is recommended to receive 6-8 sessions at 4-6 week intervals.

Microneedling is low risk and has no social downtime. It is a great cost effective maintenance treatment that essentially can be used on anybody. Fill in the form below now to book your free consultation with Dr. Rao.

Conditions It Treats:

Microdermabrasion

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A Diamond Is Truly A Girl’s Best Friend.

Diamond Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive skin resurfacing treatment that uses a tipped wand made up of natural diamond chips.

The procedure at our state of the art Edmonton clinic polishes the skin and removes dead skin cells which are then vacuumed up into a filter. The skin is left soft and supple while stimulating the regeneration of new thicker firmer skin.

With multiple treatments, it can effectively minimize the appearance of: Scars, pigmentation, fine lines, sun damaged skin, blemishes and dull/congested skin.

About Our Microdermabrasion Treatments

Turn back time with our Microdermabrasion diamond procedure. This advanced facial treatment encourages the production of collagen and elastin tissue, creating a firmer, more youthful facial contour. Your skin will feel and look smoother, more radiant and even.

Our Microdermabrasion procedures are most effective when they are performed as a series of treatments. However, even one treatment can make a huge difference in skin texture and appearance. It provides a full resurfacing effect, so your skin appears younger-looking, softer and more luminous.

Using genuine laser-cut diamond-tip applicators, microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin surface while a gentle suction feature stimulates the production of collagen & elastin and improves blood circulation. It also removes dead skin cells and impurities, which greatly improves the skin’s texture as well. Click here to book your free consultation.

Microdermabrasion FAQ

How Does Microdermabrasion Work?

The science behind microdermabrasion makes sense: when the top layer of the skin is stimulated, dead skin cells can be removed, and healthy skin cells can be rejuvenated at the same time.

Microdermabrasion is a gentle exfoliation technique that is performed with a diamond-encrusted applicator tip. The tip passes over the skins surface and creates a gentle vacuum. The diamond tip then gently exfoliates the outer most layer of dead skin cells. Once removed, it reveals one’s own fresher, younger looking skin beneath.

The diamond treatment is also ideal for more sensitive skin types as the diamond tip can be adjusted to cater to sensitive, fine skin, as well as rough or oily skin, depending on the client’s needs.

Why Does the Skin Benefit From Microdermabrasion?

Approximately every 28 days we create a new layer of skin. As new cells form they push their way to the surface of the skin and then dead cells settle on the surface. This layer of dead cells can cause pores to enlarge, get clogged, leave an uneven texture, and present a dull appearance. As we age this process starts to slow down leading to the appearance of older skin with less radiance.

Is There An Ideal Skin Type For Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is ideal for all skin types but especially for:

Mature skin types – The skin is lacking firmness and is showing the signs of age. As we age, our skin loses radiance. It is not as luminous as it once was. Our microdermabrasion procedure makes skin appear instantly younger, by removing the old, top layer of dead skin cells.
Skin with uneven skin textures. If you find that your skin is dry in places or a mixture of rough and smooth, microdermabrasion is the perfect way to even out the competing textures.
Skin with visible acne scarring. Our microdermabrasion procedure is an excellent way to remove the small scars and bumps that can happen from acne. Typically, these scars don’t affect the lower layers of skin. Therefore, they are easily treated and smoothed out with microdermabrasion, as the lower, smooth layers of skin are revealed.
Skin with pigmentation issues, such as age spots. Age spots and sun damage can be treated with our microdermabrasion procedures. The majority of age spots remain on the surface levels of skin. Once the microderm crystals remove the skin’s upper layer, the sun and age spots are drastically diminished.
Excessive oily skin types. Those with oily skin may experience an excess buildup of dirt and oil on the skin. This can cause blocked pores and make acne and blackheads an issue. The best method of managing oily skin is treating it with a series of microdermabrasion sessions. Oily skin especially runs the risk of appearing dull or ruddy due to the excess buildup that occurs. Even just one microdermabrasion treatment can help dramatically improve the skin’s look and texture.

What Areas Of My Skin Can Be Treated?

The most common areas of treatment are the face, neck, shoulders, knees and elbows but any body area can be treated.

How Many Treatments Do I Need?

3 to 6 are recommended for the best results. Treatments are performed every 7-14 days. Treatments are meant to be progressive, not aggressive. Results are most noticeable after the 3rd treatment, although, it is common to see results after the first session.

What Results Can I Expect?

Depending on the area treated, you will see an improvement in your skin’s appearance after your treatment. Stretch marks and acne scars will be less obvious. Age spots and fine lines are diminished, and many of our Microdermabrasion clients report that their skin seems softer, tighter, smoother and younger looking.

Is Microdermabrasion Effective For Men?

Men can use microdermabrasion just as women can. The procedure and results are just as effective.

Is There Any Downtime After a Treatment?

Microdermabrasion is a safe and gentle procedure with no downtime. You will need to protect your skin with moisturizer and sun block for 48 hours after the procedure and may experience mild redness and sloughing/peeling. However, you can return to work immediately, which is why many of our clients prefer to have microdermabrasion treatments on their lunch breaks since there is no downtime.

The risks of this procedure are extremely low making it a great option for all skin types. It is especially effective after laser treatments and can also be used in conjunction with other maintenance procedures such as PRP (platelet rich plasma) and microneedling.

Fill in the form below to book your free microdermabrasion consultation now.

Conditions It Treats:

Skin Reactivity and the perfect solution

Skin reactivity is a common factor among skin conditions. Stemming from different resources, it can shape how your skin reacts to certain stimulus and how it is completed unaffected by others. Understanding skin reactivity can be very useful to finding the right tool to defend against its downfalls.

Three primary causes of skin reactivity

Vascular: In this instance, reactivity develop when factors such external temperature (the weather) and internal factors like eating something spicy or consuming alcohol weakens the walls of the blood vessels. These changes can induce reactivity in the form of redness or flushed skin or a heating discomfort.

Environmental: The temperatures outdoors, especially when inconsistent and sudden can lead to burning sensations in the skin. Atmospheric pollution can also have the same effect.

Contact: the application of products with intolerable ingredients, fabrics, or even certain kinds of water can create a tightness or discolouration that results in an overall discomfort.

Understanding the aforementioned categories of skin reactivity is crucial to the implementation of proactive and preventive measures to minimize outcomes.

Skin reactivity solution – Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Masque

Skinceuticals recognizes how agonizing skin reactivity can be. The Phyto Corrective Masque is created to alleviate the discomfort that persists from reactive skin. The masque consists of highly concentrated botanical extracts, a calming dipeptide, and hyaluronic acid to intensively soothe and replenish temporary skin reactivity. The ingredients aim to calm what is otherwise irritable skin and restores the skin to its natural radiance and smoothness.

One of the major benefits of this skinceuticals product is its multidimensional nature. The masque can be used daily for post workout and a hot bath. During travel, it also restores your skin following swimming (chlorine and salt water) adventures.

The Phyto Corrective Masque is effective on all skin types and materializes in visible results.

If you want to learn more about Skinceuticals products and how they can enhance your skin in a healthy way, visit, www.skinceuticals.com

Skin Conditions

Most consumers, and people in general, are aware of the categorical distinction of skin types. In fact, more and more dermatological products list the most beneficial (and sometimes least beneficial) skin types on the label in order to optimize the effects of the product. What consumers are less aware of however, are the categories of skin conditions. While some people may identify with these categories unknowingly, there is very little awareness that these distinctions exist. We’ve listed the five skin conditions to help you become more familiar with your category.

Aging: the characteristics of aging skin condition include enlarged pores, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and a lack of elasticity. Aging skin can derive from overexposure to the sun and a lack of your skin’s natural oils. Individuals with the aging skin condition should gravitate towards products that increase collagen production.

Acne: unsurprisingly, acne skin condition consists of a vast majority of black and whiteheads, cysts, and nodules. This skin condition can be a result of overly oily skin. In order to combat acne skin, look for products that reduce the oil in your face, especially exfoliants.

Dehydrated: the characteristics of dehydrated skin condition are just as its title suggests; it lacks sufficient levels of hydration and the skin does a half-assed job in water retention. This lack of moisture makes the skin more wrinkle-prone. This condition is treated by consistently adding moisture to the skin.

Sensitized: sensitized skin tends to be inflamed, red, and irritable. To combat sensitized skin, use products that are anti-inflammatory to soothe redness and inflammation.

Skin condition awareness coupled with skin types can lead to a remarkable pairing to obtain the best products for skin care and overall wellness.

Common Skin Conditions

The skin is funny. Not in an “LOL” way, but in the sense that it is unusual, unpredictable, and easily misinterpreted. This “funniness” is culpable, to a certain degree, in the ongoing ignorance, and misdiagnosis of some of the most common skin conditions. Some rashes are minor, but others are quite telling and require further medical attention. Skin discolouration too, is easily blown off as a simple bruise. It is fair to say, many individuals have a difficult time trying to decipher between minor and major skin conditions. We’ve compiled a short list of common skin conditions to help you determine what is urgent and what is not!

Acne

Acne is easily the most common skin disorder, occurring primarily in teenagers.

It is formally defined as “an inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands, characterized by comedones and pimples, especially on the face, back, and chest, and, in severe cases, by cysts and nodules resulting in scarring”. It is often wrongfully labeled as pimples. However, acne is the combination of pimples, blackheads and cysts. Acne should not be remedied by a simple over-the-counter formula. Instead, it should be treated by a dermatologist, especially to avoid severe acne, which results in permanent scarring.

Eczema

Although not as common as Acne, Eczema is more physically abnormal and therefore, more apparent. Eczema is an inflammatory condition of the skin attended with itching and the exudation of serous matter. Further characteristics include scaly, dry skin. It can materialize in both children and adults. In fact, Atopic dermatitis is the frequent form of eczema that plagues young children. Although its origin is unknown, dermatologists believe there are both genetic and environmental factors at work.

Hives

Hives can be classified as any of a series of eruptive conditions of the skin including wheals of urticaria. The relevant area may be red, raised, and itchy. They can derive from numerous dispositions such as bites, stings, food, and medication. They don’t tend to last beyond four hours. However, a person with chronic urticaria has hives for months or years.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic form of acne whereby facial blood vessels enlarge resulting in red pustular lesions. Although no official cause has been determined, researchers have attributed the skin condition to the immune system and the environment. Although Rosacea is most common among women over 30, individuals outside this demographic can be affected as well, at less frequent rates.

While this list is not exhaustive, we hope it functions as a useful guide for categorizing your skin condition. If you’ve observed anything about your skin that does not quite meet any of the above criteria it can be serious; contact our office as soon as possible.

Healthy Skin Obsessed

These days, trends only last as long as it takes the development of another product, theme, or idea to grab your attention. Despite this, healthy skin is one trend that manages to stay afloat and continue to remain a hot topic as others fizzle out. Pop culture has become skin care obsessed and we’re excited about it. We don’t want you to fall behind, so we’re sharing our healthy skin tips so you can ride the wave.

The Inside Job

Avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine consumption

These three substances, especially when consumed in a frequent and simultaneous manner, are capable of aging your skin rapidly and significantly. According to research from the British Skin Foundation, “smoking reduces the skin’s natural elasticity through the breakdown and reduction of collagen.” This lack of collagen is important to your skin’s health because it is a protein responsible for the strength of the skin. Consequently, the reduction and removal of collagen also results in the formation of wrinkles.

Be intentional about your food consumption

Healthy skin is the summary of what you put on the inside and outside of your skin. However, it is fair to say that the internal aspect holds a little more weight to the process and yields long-term effects. Consume foods that are high in antioxidants such as berries, carrots, beet, and squash. These foods will prevent free-radical damage. You should also include foods that contain vitamin A, such as green leafy vegetables and oranges, to help promote skin repair. Finally, drink lots and lots of water (eight glasses, daily). Water is the ultimate internal key to healthy-looking skin.

The Outside Job

Have a Skin Care Routine

Sadly, most people simply wash their faces with the body wash that is conveniently placed in the shower and that’s the end of their skincare routine. Using a little more effort, invest in a good cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and exfoliant that compliments your skin type and get in the habit of using these products daily. Your skin reacts well to consistency.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Invest in products that contain UVA and UVB protection to prevent sunburn or skin diseases. A little sun is certainly healthy as well, but you must be moderate.

Rest

Spend more time getting acquainted with your pillow and your dreams. Sleep is essential to healthy skin. Try going to your bed at the same hour every night, keep your bedroom cool, and apply a pea size amount of natural coconut oil over your eyes.

Try these tips to get the best out of your skin.