Don’t Get Flushed! It’s National Rosacea Awareness Month!
Which would you like first, the good news or the bad news? Let’s get the bad news out of the way. Unfortunately the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no known cure. But the good news is that you can suppress the symptoms during a flare-up with the right procedures and products.
Depending on your skin and the severity of your rosacea, procedures such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and red light treatments can help to strengthen capillaries. In addition to facial treatments, products such as Obagi Rosaclear and Guinot Red Logic are great for treating the symptoms of rosacea. Some treatments and products that treat rosacea may be acceptable expense items under your Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account.
April has been designated Rosacea Awareness Month by The National Rosacea Society (NRS) to emphasize the importance of seeking medical help for the skin ailment. Any of the following are a signal to make an appointment for a consultation with a Seasons aesthetician. Our aestheticians can make sure you are taking advantage of all of the procedures and products available to help your skin and insure that you aren’t doing anything to worsen the condition.
- Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
- Small visible blood vessels on the face
- Bumps or pimples on the face
- Watery or irritated eyes
- Rosacea by the numbers. It is estimated that rosacea affects more than 14 million Americans.1 It occurs most commonly in adults age 30 to 60.2 And 30% to 40% of patients with rosacea have a close relative with the condition.3 It tends to occur more often in women but more severely in men.2
- Menopause is a red flag. Many menopausal women tend to think they have adult acne when they see red bumps and pimples. However, it is possible that it could be rosacea. In fact, hot flashes might cause the first appearance of rosacea, so visit a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.
- The sooner the better. People often delay treatment, thinking they have a temporary condition that will go away quickly, yet rosacea is reported to worsen with time—so the sooner treatment is started the better. If you have facial redness, acne-like pimples, flushing of the cheeks, nose, chin, and/or forehead, meet with your physician for a diagnosis and to discuss the prescription-based Rosaclear® System.
- Avoid the aggravation. Prevent future flare-ups by avoiding things that can trigger rosacea. It might be helpful to keep a journal because everyone has different triggers. The most common ones include sun exposure, vigorous exercise, caffeine, stress, spicy food, excessive sugar and sweets, and alcohol.
- Keep your chin up. According to a National Rosacea Society survey, nearly 70% of rosacea sufferers reported experiencing embarrassment and anxiety because of their condition. The Obagi Rosaclear System incorporates a therapeutic prescription component, as well as products that help calm your skin and minimize the visible redness and blotchiness associated with rosacea. Even better, it is a skin care regimen that is noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. This can make it easier for rosacea sufferers to face the world and it helps improve their quality of life.
Rosaclear System by Obagi
Obagi has developed clinically-proven products and systems primarily for common and visible skin conditions including: aging, photodamage, hyperpigmentation (melasma and freckles), acne, sun damage and rosacea. Obagi has been featured in numerous publications and received many accolades including being named ‘Best Skin Care System Sold in a Doctor’s Office’ by New Beauty Magazine.
The Rosaclear System is the first and only complete therapeutic system developed to treat signs and symptoms of rosacea and consists of the following Obagi products:
- Gentle Cleanser
- Metronidazole Topical Gel USP, 0.75%
- Hydrating Complexion Corrector
- Skin Balancing Sun Protection SPF 30
Guinot Red Logic Face Cream
Guinot’s Red Logic Face Cream has rich, melting textures that alleviate the symptoms of irritated and damaged skin by restoring comfort, regenerating and softening the skin, and soothing irritation.
Red Logic Face Cream features and benefits include:
- Softens, soothes, and nourishes the skin
- Conceals and minimizes blotchiness
- Lightens and evens the complexion
- Insulates skin against temperature changes
At Seasons – The Spa, our skin specialists are highly trained in treating the symptoms of Rosacea with advanced skin treatments and professional strength products. Call us today for a complimentary consultation and let us help you achieve a clear, calm, and more balanced-looking skin tone, (318) 255-115.
1 American Academy of Dermatology and the National Rosacea Society
2 www.medicinenet.com/rosacea/article.htm
3 www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160281.php
Beginner’s Guide to IPL Hair Reduction: ‘Hair’ Today, Gone Tomorrow
Are you ready to shed your winter coat and put on that teenie weenie bikini? Here’s the buzz on de-fuzzing with intense pulsed light (IPL).
How does IPL hair removal work?
IPL is fast and effective in eliminating unwanted hair. The laser gets to the root of the of the follicle by going into the shaft and heating the hair at its base, destroying the hair, and effectively stopping or reducing re-growth. Lasers are set to target pigmentation, so laser hair removal is usually more effective on darker hair.
What’s the treatment like?
IPL treatment lasts only 15 to 30 minutes (depending on the area). A gel is applied to the skin to act as a conductor for the laser and help keep the skin cool during the procedure. Our aesthetician will use a hand-held laser tool on the desired area. The procedure can cause discomfort in some individuals, but it’s usually slight and fades quickly.
Do I need to have a consultation before treatment?
Yes. It is our policy to meet with you prior to a laser treatment to make sure you are a candidate for this procedure. It is possible to have your treatment the same day as your consultation as long as there is enough time. If you feel like you may want to have a treatment the same day, please tell our spa concierge when booking your appointment.
How often do I have to come back for the treatment?
The recommended course of treatment is six sessions. However, this will vary based on skin tone, hair texture and the rate of hair growth. We recommend that you wait 4-6 weeks between sessions.
When can I see visible results for hair removal?
The hair reduction is gradual and increases with each treatment. The exact amount varies from person to person and by area.
Will my hair be permanently removed?
Though we know you’ll be thrilled with your results, we can only ensure permanent hair reduction, not complete elimination because it is possible that you may need a touch up in the future.
Before your service:
- Please shave the area to be treated before your appointment.
- Do not pluck, wax, use a depilatory, or undergo electrolysis in the areas you wish to treat for 6 weeks prior to your hair removal treatment. Shaving is good. Everything else is a no-no!
- Avoid any UV exposure to the areas to be treated for 4 weeks prior to treatment.
- Avoid self-tanning products for 4 weeks prior to treatment.
- If you have taken any medications such as Accutane in the last 6 months, please let us know. Certain medications can make your skin more susceptible to damage from the laser.
After your service:
- Some redness and swelling in the treated area is normal, it may feel similar to a sunburn.
- Avoid applying irritants (glycolics, retinoids, etc.) to the treated area for 7 days after treatment.
- Apply sunscreen to the treated area for 6 weeks after the procedure.
- Keep the treated area clean. To avoid irritation, do not scrub the area.
- Do not use deodorant or antiperspirant for 24-48 hours after an underarm treatment.
Ready to get smooth? Call Seasons – The Spa at (318) 255-1155 to schedule your complimentary consultation. Until May 31st, 2012, you can receive a discount on all IPL and waxing services. For more information, click here.
Ask An Aesthetician: Q&A with Lisa Best
Lisa Best, Licensed Aesthetician
She’s no johnny-come-lately. Lisa has been in the beauty business since 198…well you get the idea. She knows a thing or two about helping you look your best. Lisa is certified in many different skin procedures including: Microdermabrasion, Intense Pulsed Light, LED treatments and much more. She has extensive knowledge about the skin through practice and advanced education both in the U.S. and abroad.
You’ve asked, and we’ve listened. Seasons Aesthetician, Lisa Best, is here to answer some common questions you have about your skin! If you would like to see your skincare questions answered on our blog, email: office@seasonswc.com with the subject line: Ask An Aesthetician.
Q: Some people think freckles are “cute” but I don’t. Is it possible to get rid of my freckles?
A: Freckles are cute but if you want to get rid of them, I can help. Freckles are dark spots of melanin that occur on people who are pale or fair-skinned. To fade freckles, we suggest having a photofacial and using a lightening product with hydroquinone (like Obagi Clear). Photofacials make your skin more youthful by making freckles less noticeable. Photofacials use thermal energy and light to promote collagen production in the skin dermis. The freckle absorbs the wavelength and the pigment is broken apart. The fragmented pieces are absorbed into the body. There’s barely a trace of the original freckle. For best results, we recommend having a series of photofacials, use Obagi NuDerm Clear and use a broad spectrum SPF daily.
Q: My skin is starting to show signs of laxity/sagging, is there a facial that will help?
A: Yes! The Hydradermie Lift. The Hydradermie Lift uses muscle stimulation to tighten your muscles. Its like an exercise for your face! But just like exercise, you can’t be do it once and expect to get the best results. For best results it should be done in a series – usually 4-6 treatments once a week and then once every 2-3 months for maintenance.
Q: I have age spots on my hand and chest! Is there anything I can do to get rid of them?
A: Photofacial treatments (IPL) on the hands and chest work great for fading age spots. The IPL treatments may take a few treatments before noticing a major difference, but eventually the spots will fade. You will need to wear sunscreen everyday or they will come back!
Q: Facials, facials, facials. How will I ever choose? Is it ok to tell my Aesthetician that I would like something in particular?
It is absolutely ok for you to tell the Aesthetician that you would like something in particular. To help you choose, decide if you want a more relaxing facial, corrective facial or a little of both. If you aren’t a seasoned spa-goer and still aren’t sure, we are here to help. At Seasons, we provide clients with complementary consultations and we use a VISIA skin analysis machine to take pictures of your skin. The VISIA gives us a detailed picture of your skin and shows skin damage, texture, wrinkles, giving us a good idea of where we need to start on your skin care regimen.
Q: I wash my face every morning and every night but I still have blackheads. What should I do?
A: We are all plagued by those pesky blackheads. Blackheads are created by a build-up of excess oil in the pores. When this oil is exposed to oxygen, it turns a dark color. To get rid of them, try a product that has Benzoyl Peroxide 5%. Apply a thin layer of the benzoyl peroxide to the blackheads and allow it to dry. Repeat this process at night before bedtime, and your blackheads should disappear. At Seasons – The Spa, we have lots of great products and facials to help with blackheads.
Q: I am starting to get wrinkles! Is there anything I can do to prevent wrinkles without getting Botox injections?
A: You have probably heard about the Clarisonic Pro but what about their newest gem, the Opal? The Clarisonic Opal uses sonicare waves penetrating serum deep into the skin resulting in a smooth appearance. I would also suggest using Retin A every night. Retin A increases collagen production and helps prevent the signs of aging (consult a skin care specialist or physician before using Retin A). Obagi products are also great for transforming your skin and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Q: I have Rosacea. Can it be cured? If not, is there something I can do to suppress the symptoms?
A: Unfortunately there is no cure. But you can suppress the symptoms during a flare up. Depending on your skin and the severity, we would try procedures such as IPL and red light treatments to help strengthen capillaries. Products such as Obagi Rosaclear and Guinot Red Logic are also really good for clients with Rosacea. Make an appointment for a consultation with your Aesthetician to make sure you are taking advantage of all of the great procedures and products for your skin – and aren’t doing something that could make it worse.
The Photofacial Phenomenon: How to Rejuvenate Your Skin With a Series of Treatments
UV damage before and after Photofacial treatments using Visia Skin Analysis
Perhaps you’ve heard of photofacial treatments. But exactly what is a photofacial?
Photofacial treatments use an intense pulsed light (IPL) to penetrate your skin on the deepest levels causing your body to produce new collagen, creating healthier and smoother skin. This non-ablative, non-invasive treatment can be performed on the face, chest, neck, arms, legs and back.
IPL Photofacial is particularly suited for treating rosacea, sun damaged skin, age spots, and facial veins and will give you the best results when treated in a series. Pain associated with treatment is very minimal and most clients report the feeling of the IPL light beam to be like a rubber band snapping against the skin.
Photofacial results are long-lasting if you undergo the presribed number of treatments. A skin regimen can be carried out at home to maintain the results. After a couple of years, a touch-up photofacial treatment might be needed.
Give your skin an energy boost at Seasons – The Spa! Schedule your treatment during September and take $50 off your treatment (see our September Beauty Bonus). For more information about photofacial treatments and other skin rejuvenation services, please visit our Spa Services page.
To schedule your photofacial treatment or a complementary consultation and Visia Skin Analysis with our Aesthetician, call Seasons – The Spa at 318.255.1155.
Looking for a Lunchtime Get Away?
Don't spend your lunch break in front of the computer!
1. Botox – You may have heard the expression “wearing your emotions on your sleeve,” but in reality you wear them on your face. Say goodbye to the evidence of age and watch your frownlines diminish and disappear with this simple and quick procedure. Results vary and usually last up to four months. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.
2. Photofacial – This non-ablative, non-invasive treatment can be performed on the face, chest, neck, arms, legs and back and is highly recommended for acne, rosacea, and skin rejuvenation. Utilizing Intense Pulsed Light, a specific wave length targets and destroys unwanted blood vessels and pigmented discolorations without harming skin and stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen that replenishes what time and sun damage has taken away. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.
3. Microdermabrasion Facial – Suitable for most skin types, this non-surgical mechanical exfoliation removes the outer layer of dead, dry skin. Regular treatments stimulate cell regeneration and improve the appearance of brown spots, shallow acne scars, sun damage, enlarged pores, and fine lines. Appointment time: about 45 minutes.
4. Session in the Sauna – The infrared sauna has completely transformed the meaning of the word “sauna”. Our no-steam sauna offers 7 times the effectiveness of a traditional sauna because of its ability to penetrate human tissue. Weight loss isn’t the only advantage of a sauna. A sauna helps rejuvenate and heal the body as you simply relax. Additional benefits include: detoxification, pain relief, improved circulation, lowered blood pressure, wound healing, skin purification, immunity, cell health, muscle recovery, weight loss and more! Appointment time: between 15-45 minutes.
5. IPL hair removal – Hair removal with intense pulsed light is fast and very effective in eliminating large areas of unwanted hair. Light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair and converted to heat in the follicle. The heat damages the follicle and disables it from growing new hair. Excellent for areas such as the lip, under arms, or even the bikini area. IPL works best on darker hair, and is recommended in a series of four to six treatments. Consultation required. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.
6. 30 Minute Swedish Relaxation Massage - This is a soothing massage that relaxes and calms the body, improves circulation, and eases muscle aches, tension, and stress. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.
7. Cellulite Reduction with Smooth Shapes – This pain-free treatment uses dynamic laser and light energy with the ultimate result of tighter and smoother skin. Collagen is regenerated, circulation is improved and metabolic processes are restored. This treatment is recommended in a series of eight treatments. Consultation required. Appointment time: about 45 minutes (1 area).
8. Paraffin Hand and Foot Therapy – Experience this warm and relaxing therapy for hands or feet. Healing heat penetrates deeply and promotes relaxation. This therapy is ideal for achy muscles, arthritic joints, and rough, dry skin. Appointment time: about 20 minutes.
9. Eyebrow shaping – At Seasons, we use waxing and tweezing as a method of semi-permanent hair removal. Our brow experts will de-fuzz those bushy brows and leave you with beautifully sculpted eyebrows. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.
10. Ion Foot Bath – This safe, effective, and natural foot bath rids your body of impurities and toxins. The ion spa uses water as a conductive medium to detoxify and cleanse your body. Benefits include heavy metal removal, increased energy, pain relief, improved oxygen delivery, and much more. Appointment time: about 45 minutes.
Can’t get enough of our spa services and products? Become a Spa Member at Seasons – The Spa and enjoy our services all year long! For more information about the Spa Membership Program, visit our website or contact the Spa Concierge at 318.255.1155.
Delta Style Makeover Contest Winner – Tiffany Spillers
Tiffany Spillers, After
Seasons – The Spa, Seasons Medical Aesthetics and It’s Permanent have teamed up with Delta Style Magazine to provide aesthetic services to one hopeful makeover candidate. The lucky lady, West Monroe resident Tiffany Spillers, is a wife and new mother looking to revamp her image and give herself some much needed tender-loving-care.
At Tiffany’s initial consultation, Tiffany, Terri Grayson of It’s Permanent, Elizabeth Drewett of Seasons, and Sarah Jeffords of Seasons discussed some of the cosmetic procedures that she was interested in and the results that she was hoping to accomplish. Following her consultation, Tiffany decided to enjoy the following services:
- Electrolysis
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for hair growth reduction
- Spray Tan
- Sudatonic Wrap
- Permanent Makeup – Eyeliner
- Microdermabrasion
- Obagi-C Facial Cleansing Kit
One of Tiffany’s concerns was hair removal. To address that concern, Tiffany had electrolysis on her eyebrows and upper lip and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) under her arms to reduce hair growth.
To give her a healthy glow without the risk of tanning, Tiffany enjoyed several spray tans throughout her makeover journey. “I really enjoyed the streak-free glow. And it lasted over a week,” she said.
Tiffany Spillers, Before
To boost her weight-loss efforts, Tiffany received six Sudatonic wrap treatments. “I really loved the Sudatonic wraps,” said Tiffany, “and I saw a dramatic difference in inches lost and water weight.”
Tiffany was also interested in having permanent cosmetics but was hesitant to do something permanent and possibly painful. Following the procedure, her anxiety was replaced by joy. “I am so glad I decided to have the permanent eyeliner done,” said Tiffany. “I love it!”.
To exfoliate and improve the appearance of her skin, Tiffany had two microdermabrasion treatments. In conjunction with the microdermabrasion treatments, she used the Obagi-C Facial Cleansing Kit. Obagi, the leader in cosmeceutical products, is designed to prevent and improve the most common and visible skin disorders in adult skin. “I will never use anything else,” said Tiffany. “My skin is so soft and clear, and I love adding the sunscreen as part of my daily routine.”
While Tiffany’s makover results are obvious in the photographs on the pages of Delta Style, the team at Seasons and It’s Permanent noticed the biggest difference in Tiffany’s self-confidence and personality. “We were so pleased to play a part in transforming Tiffany into the bubbly, outgoing, and gorgeous girl that was already on the inside. We just helped the inside and the outside match!” said Terri. “We enjoyed every second of working with Tiffany and being a part of her transformation.”
For more information about the services Tiffany enjoyed at Seasons and It’s Permanent, call 255-1155 (Ruston) or 340-1178 (Monroe).
