Namita Rao - Rao Dermatology

Envious Benefits of Eye Lifts (Blepharoplasty)

One of the first telling signs of aging and weariness are drooping eyes. After all, when you deprive yourself of sleep, keeping your eyes open longer than they are intended to be, overtime you wear them out. In addition, inadequate skincare regimens and failure to remove makeup significantly deteriorate of the appearance of your eyes. While there are anti-aging creams and eye correction solutions that aim to mitigate these challenges, eye lifts are the increasingly popular alternative. Eye lifts, which are formally known as Blepharoplasty or Eyelid surgery, works to reduce the droopiness from the lower lids and remove excess skin from the upper ones. So what’s the reason for their popularity? Well, they have benefits that people value.

Enhanced Appearance

Eye lifts do exactly what the name suggests…lifts your eyes thereby enhancing your appearance. The procedure transforms the appearance of your eyes by reducing the sagging skin; it is restorative in that way. It is innately rejuvenating, it brightens your face holistically, and it also boosts your confidence and self esteem in the overall appearance of your skin.

Reduces Signs of Aging

Blepharoplasty is beneficial in that it reduces the signs of aging that are initiated by wrinkles around the eyes. The lift to both the upper and lower lids simultaneous diminishes the lines in the skin. Dermatologists suggest pairing the lift with a skin rejuvenation treatment to optimize the anti-aging results.

Vision Improvement

Research has shown that eyelid surgeries tend to improve faulty and unreliable vision. More specifically, where the droopiness of the eyes are severe enough to contribute to vision impairment, the surgery restores your line of sight by removing the excess deposit of skin and tissues.

If you want to reap the benefits of eyelid surgery and believe it’s the perfect option for you, contact our office for an appointment today.

Nano Laser Peel – Totally Worth It!

If there were a new technology that you could carry in your purse, it would have to be the Nano laser peel. However, with its long-lasting and outstanding effects, you wouldn’t need to anyway. A Nano Laser Peel is the ultimate rejuvenating tool for combating dry, dull, and tired-looking skin. Using light energy, the treatment removes the top layers of your skin at a depth that catalyzes and accelerates the skin’s renewal process. So why is it “totally worth it?”

It’s the perfect intermediate solution

Nano laser peel is an ideal treatment for defending against dull and tired looking skin because it is the middle ground for similar treatments. More specifically, chemical peels entail a much lighter process, whereby the application of a peel solution results in the removal of the outer layer of the skin simply by peeling the solution once it has hardened. On the other end of the spectrum is deep laser resurfacing which dissolves the molecular bonds of damage cells layer by layer. Despite this, it has the potential to leave a layer of heat-damaged cells. Both techniques are still effective, however the Nano laser peel provides the right amount of impact on the skin with very little side effects.

Requires less time

The use of the light energy accelerates the procedure at a significant rate. As a result, you can book an appointment, have a quick turn around time in treatment, and carry on with your day without compromising your busy schedule.

Targets multiple issues

The Nano laser peel may revive your skin from a world of dullness, but it is equally effective for combating acne scarring, wrinkles, and aging skin.

Rejuvenating your skin shouldn’t be difficult and inaccessible. Nano laser peels are favourable for clients and dermatologists continue to recommend them for quick, visible, and radiant results. If you think Nano Laser Peel is for you, call our office today and book your appointment.

NanoPeel is a great maintenance strategy that continues to combat aging after the deeper laser peels.

The Dos and Don’ts of Tanning!

The summer days are thriving and you should be soaking up every bit, literally. We’re not talking about running through the sprinklers at your local park or diving into a welcoming pool in the sweltering heat. We’re talking about tanning! You should be soaking up some sun and getting the best of it before the winter comes to terrorize you with dry skin. Tanning is a welcomed practice, however, we at Rao Dermatology believe everything should be done in a safe and moderate way. The sun, as lovely as it is, is packed with UV Rays that can cause skin cancer and other skin diseases. These tips below will help you practice safe tanning so you can feel comfortable and look radiant while you enjoy your summer.

Always wear Sunscreen

Whether you’re a naturalist or you subscribe to using pre-packaged store-bought brands, using sunscreen is a must. Protection from UVA and UVB radiation is imperative due to the stammering and grave harm, primarily skin cancer, which can result from exposure. Use sunscreen that is combative and states explicitly that it contains UVA/UVB protection, and most importantly, ensure it contains other health benefits such as replenishing and nourishing your skin.

Use other skin products with UVA/UVB protection

It’s easy to think that you have the ultimate protection once you have drowned your body in sunscreen. However, other parts of your body also need adequate coverage. If you are wearing make-up, it should be able to defend you from the sun. Skinceuticals has a highly effective line of sunscreen-based lip and eye protection to give you maximum coverage for your tanning excursions.

Limit your “Face time”

Your face is much more sensitive than the rest of your body. At no point should they both be exposed to the sun for equal amounts of time. Dermatologists recommend a maximum of 10 minutes face-tanning time. Anything longer than the allotted time can result in premature aging, dark spots, wrinkles, and discolouration. Also aim to exfoliate prior to sun tanning; it will kill dead cells and cleanse your pores.

Don’t Bake Your Skin

First –time tanners can tan for about 20 minutes and increase each time by five to ten minutes. However, monitor your skin. Do not stay in the sun for more than 1.5 – 2 hours.

Long-Term Effects of Neuromodulator Injections

At Rao Dermatology, we celebrate the use of neuromodulator injections for healthy, young, and wrinkle-free skin. Our techniques and technologies are clinically tested and have proven to temporarily eradicate wrinkled skin. While our treatments provide you with optimal results and minimal side effects, not all dermatologists practice proper neuromodulator etiquette, which includes accurate medical history checks and the frequency and intervals of your appointment. As a result, long –term effects can ensue. Below, we’ve listed a series of long-term effects that can materialize from the improper and untracked usage of neuromodulator injections.

Pain deriving from Injection

Following multiple injections, it is possible for patients to experience pain at the neuromodulator injection site. More specifically, the area may become tender, swell, or bruise. Follow up treatments, when completed properly, should be able to eliminate these long-term side effects. However, in rare cases, the area of the injection site may permanently become tender.

Allergic Reactions

Patients who receive neuromodulator injections can experience allergic reactions. If you receive treatment and observe abnormalities such as irregular breathing, chest pains, abnormal heartbeat or bleeding, contact your physician or go to your nearest Emergency centre; you may be unaware that your neuromodulator injections have a negative impact on your allergies.

Eye Irritation

If you receive neuromodulator treatments in areas near your eye on a regular basis, you can develop irritation around that area. More specifically, you may experience watery, red or itchy eyes and in the most extreme cases you can develop blurry vision. In milder cases, consult your dermatologist so they are able to accurately monitor these effects. In the more severe instances, such as blurred vision or swelling, contact your physician.

Finally, any irregular side effects that occur following frequent neuromodulator injections should prompt you to speak with your dermatologist or family physician.

Are You Sporting Alligator skin?

Ladies, how many times have you had to pull your dress down just a little further to hide the ash? And men, aren’t you tired of having to pull your socks over your knees to take the attention away from your scaly skin? We, at Rao Dermatology, do not want you to cover up, especially during the summer. Dry skin may be unattractive and irritable, but most importantly it is curable.

First, let’s tackle the most obvious method for controlling dry skin: moisturize. If you suffer from dry skin, you must be vigilant in reading and nitpicking your moisturizers. Look for lotions and moisturizers that are specifically for dry skin. Products that contain lipids are particularly beneficial as they help contain the moisture to your skin.

Another easy way to tackle dry skin is to avoid hot showers. Hot water strips your body of its natural oils and does not replace them. As a result, your skin is much dryer than it should be. Take warm or cool showers and use a body wash that replaces the natural oils that are removed and replenishes the skin. Also try to pat dry following your shower, to keep your skin a little damp. Don’t forget to moisturize after your shower as well.

Equally important for combatting dry skin is hydration, both internally and externally. Drink lots of water to keep your body hydrated internally; this will support the water retention for your skin. Externally, soaking in a tub of tepid water for about 30 to 45 minutes will re-hydrate your skin.

Finally, oil treatments are beneficial to dry skin. Get familiar with the natural oils that make your skin glow in a healthy way. Packed with Omega -3, flax seed oil helps to improve your skin’s overall appearance. Incorporate natural oil treatments into your weekly regimen to see visible changes.

Dry skin can make you feel like an alligator, but if you incorporate these tips, we promise you won’t turn into one!

Should I be calling my Dermatologist?

To some people, skincare is a trivial matter. There is very little concern for the products and methods that are used on the skin. In a lot of cases, so long as your skin isn’t on fire or isn’t severely irritable, you’re okay. While these instances are causes for concern, the need for a dermatologist span far beyond matters of severity.

At Rao Dermatology, we offer a myriad of services that are beneficial for your skin, but how do you know you need them? This article provides a list of instances when you should call or visit, or get a recommendation from your GP to see a dermatologist.

Stubborn Acne

One of the first signs of bad skin is stubborn acne. If you have been using over-the-counter products for a long period of time and your condition has not improved or has worsen, you must see a gynecologist. Although your Family Doctor can prescribe quick fixes for mild acne, Dermatologists can advise and administer treatments that are geared specifically towards your skin type.

Sunburn

Excessive exposure to the sun can have serious effects that creep up silently. If you’ve spent a lot of time in the sun or visiting tanning salons, a Dermatological check up should be a part of your yearly routine. The skin is a sensitive organ, but it is also discrete. Dispositions occurring under the skin as a result of sunburn or overexposure to UV rays may not be immediately apparent.

Spots, unusual rashes, discolouration

If you observe a change in colour, consistently, or notice that your skin is more than one colour at a time, you need to see your dermatologist. Random spots that appear and remain as well as old spots that seem to be changing are also matters to bring to a dermatologist’s attention.

Hair Growth

Sudden and rapid hair growth on your face and chest can be warning signs of a disposition in your skin. If this occurs, let your dermatologist know.

Wrinkling/Aging

Sometimes certain products that you use on your skin can accelerate skin wrinkling and aging. If you notice an increasing amount of wrinkles over a short period of time on your skin, call your dermatologist.

This list is not exhaustive, but if anything about your skin is abnormal it is worth bringing to your Dermatologist’s attention.

Fresh Skinceuticals Products

What’s New, What’s Poppin! Fresh Skinceuticals Products

At Rao Dermatology, we value the dermatological research, integrity, and value that is at the forefront of advanced skincare brand giant, Skinceuticals. Their scientifically backed ingredients and pure procedural design paired with their dedication to skin cancer research has allowed us to continually use and recommend their products. If you haven’t included this brand to your skincare collection just yet, these new products will certainly give you that little push you need. Besides, no collection is truly complete without Skinceuticals.

FOR AGING: Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2

Skinceuticals’ newest anti-aging treatment, Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is a standout formula for combating your aging-skin dilemma. Dermatological research reveals, “Aging skin is increasingly susceptible to lipid depletion.” What this does is it challenges the skin’s natural protective barrier, which accelerates aging. To retaliate against this disposition, the TLR 2:4:2 comprises of 2% lipids, 4% natural cholesterol, and 2% fatty acids to help restore and self-repair the skin’s external barrier. Further, this cholesterol-dominant treatment simultaneously nourishes aging skin to improve the skin’s appearance making it radiant, fluid (manages pores), and smooth. It goes on the skin very lightly and has a fast absorbing texture, thereby alleviating any discomfort. Don’t worry; this must-have is effective on all skin types, namely, normal, dry, oily, sensitive and combination.

SKIN PROTECTION FROM THE INSIDE OUT: C E Ferulic

Skincare is just as much about what is going on inside of your body as what is happening on the outside. Skinceuticals recognizes this dualism in skincare and highly recommend the C E Ferulic, a vitamin C serum is applied as a topical cream to obtain advanced environmental protection “from free radicals induced by environmental stressors such as UVA/UVB, infrared radiation (IRA), and pollution, which may lead to visible signs of accelerated skin aging.” With an antioxidant combination of pure vitamin C and E as well as ferulic acid, C E Ferulic strengthens the skin’s natural protection and also enhances the outward appearance of the skin, making it firm, wrinkle-free, and radiant. The vitamin C Serum is activated once it is absorbed in the skin remains effective for a minimum of 72 hours. It is most suitable for Dry, Normal, and Sensitive skin types.

Treat your skin to real medicine and try one or both of these Skinceuticals products to enhance your skin and feel confident in it!

Neuromodulators for Headaches and Migraines

Chronic headaches and migraines are usually unbearable. Remedies such as laying down in the dark, medicating with over-the-counter painkillers, or taking a nap hardly ever provide much relief; and when they do, the relief is only temporary because in just a few hours the headache or migraine returns. The FDA approved and dermatologists’ recommended solution for chronic headache and migraines among adults is the neuromodulator botulinum toxin type A. This article aims to shed light on the increasingly popular solution for combating tedious painful headaches.

This neuromodulator is a prescribed form of medicine that is injected into the muscles. In this particular case however, it targets and reduces chronic headaches that are “present more than 15 days per month”. The procedure is not available for children and has a specific criteria, namely, the presence of migraines or chronic headaches lasting four hours or more each day at 15 or more days per month in individuals who are over the age of 18.

Following an in-depth assessment of your medical history and current health your dermatologist will administer the neuromodulator using a needle and direct it to your muscle. The procedure is quite simple and requires very little time commitment. Injections are usually administered every 12 weeks and first-time patients may have to commit to two to four injections to see optimal results. The mechanism of neuromodulators for headaches is still a mystery as scientists and doctors continue to uncover exactly why it is so effective on chronic headache and migraine patients. The most popular theory however, purports that the chemical injection decreases muscle contractions and in the process, triggers a muscle that onsets migraines.

As far as safety is concerned, neuromodulators for migraines and chronic headaches is a safe and regularly practiced procedure. In fact, Health Canada approved this form of treatment in 2011. Although neuromodulator treatment has continued to be successful, we at Rao Dermatology always recommend that you check with your doctor first before commencing treatment.

If you would like more information on neuromodulators for chronic headaches and migraines, contact our office and we’ll assist you accordingly.

Liposuction and Health

Liposuction or liposculpting is currently one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries in North America. As a procedure that combats and vacuums unwanted fat from various parts of the body, it is unsurprising that this surgery has been so successful. At Rao Dermatology, we offer our patients the opportunity to benefit from tumescent liposculpture, removing excess fat through small incisions and a cannula. Requiring a mild anesthesia or general sedation, we help you achieve the body you desire so you can feel like a work of art and be confident in your skin.

Liposculpting is usually met with reservation, but that stigma is quickly eroding. The procedure is safe and effective and our clients particularly enjoy the fact that the skin maintains its plasticity rapidly as a result of the cannulas used in the procedure. Although liposculpting is primarily used to enhance your physical appearance by focusing on one particular area at time, the procedure is beneficial for other health issues.

Lymphedema

Lymphedema, a medical condition that causes excess fluid and swelling, primarily in the arms and legs, is treated with liposuction. When lymph drainage does not occur regularly, fluid builds up in the arms and legs. In rare instances, lymphedema occurs as early as birth. In severe cases of lymphedema, doctors use liposuction to reduce the swelling from the excess fluid. For patients with this medical condition, the severity of the procedure results in wearing a compression bandage for several months.

Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of male breasts. “It is defined clinically by the presence of a rubbery or firm mass extending concentrically from the nipples.” Generally there is no set treatment for Gynecomastia. Patients are usually checked and evaluated regularly by a doctor. However, in some instances, liposuction is used to reduce the benign enlargement.

Extreme weight loss

In instances of extreme weight loss, perhaps by a gastric bypass procedure, liposuction is used to eliminate any abnormalities that developed following surgery.

The use of liposuction in chronic and severe medical treatment is telling of its effectiveness. You may not suffer from any of the severe medical conditions above, but if you’ve like to sculpt your body into one you love, give it a try. If you’d like more information, call our office and book your appointment today.

Oh Baby!! Skin Care Tips

It’s undeniable that almost no one can resist the urge to babble, make faces, ogle, and touch the cutie little dough-eyed faces of babies. In all the excitement however, it’s easy to forget the delicacy of their skin. As little gems only on their face legs of life, their sensitivity is heightened. Fortunately, implementing daily intentional and practiced skin care regimens for your baby can give you the well-needed confidence in your baby’s skin and help you defend against those tempted “touchers”. Try these tips below to enhance your child’s skincare.

Less is more, don’t let the water overflow

There is nothing more soothing than that natural baby scent. And since it’s so soothing, you should be less inclined to wash it off. Part of preserving your baby’s skin is limiting their baths. For your child’s first month of life, you should limit his baths to three times per week. In the interim, use a little water and a delicate sponge or cloth to wipe key areas like his diaper area and face. Washing your baby more frequently than advised can result in the removal of his skin’s natural oils or it may spark skin conditions. Lastly, a baby’s career consists of short days and long nights in a crib, eating, sleeping, and pooping—there probably isn’t much dirty to wash away anyhow.

Avoid Fragrance!!

Although this tip should go unsaid, we’d rather say it: Avoid using fragranced products on your baby. It seems simple enough, but this tip extends to parents and people interacting with and holding your precious little one. As your baby develops, they slowly gain defense mechanisms against certain chemicals, ingredients, and substances. Because these early months are so imperative however, keeping fragrances away can prevent skin irritation. Aim to use products with natural and scent-free ingredients to avoid potential eczema, rash, or irritation.

Couples Massage

Babies respond exceptionally well to touch, especially from their mother. Use a little baby oil and gently massage your little one’s skin. Not only does this sooth them, but it also helps to boost their immune system and relieves any tension from their skin. The cherry on top: It’s the perfect bonding exercise for you and your mini me.

Treat your baby to all of these tips and watch the beauty of baby skin care evolve.