Frequently Asked Questions
We want you to feel completely comfortable and confident when working with us. To help, we’ve put together a list of Frequently Asked Questions that cover some of the most common topics.
What is Dysport?
WHAT IS DYSPORT®?Natural-looking. Fast-acting. Long-lasting.
Don’t let your frown lines between your eyebrows define you. For adults who want a natural look, Dysport is a natural-looking, fast-acting1-3, long-lasting1,2,4 prescription injection proven to help smooth moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows—without changing the look or movement of the rest of your face. Dysport is approved in 69 countries5 and has 25 years of clinical experience worldwide.6* Find out why 97% of women treated with Dysport say they’d do it again.
How Does Dysport Work?
One injection. Five points. Dysport treats moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows by reducing specific muscle activity. Wrinkles are caused by repeated movements and muscle contractions. One injection into each of the 5 points between and above the eyebrows temporarily prevents muscle contractions that cause frown lines.
When Will I See Results? You’ve got better things to do than think about what your frown lines look like. The majority of users see improvement in just 2-3 days after treatment. In just one 10- to 20-minute treatment, Dysport may help improve the look of your frown lines between the eyebrows for up to 5 months. Results of repeat treatments may be comparable to your first use. Another plus? There is minimal downtime after your treatment, which means you can get back to your day faster.
Fast-Acting 2-3 DAYS Over half of users see improvement 2-3 days after treatment. Long-Lasting 5 MONTHS
What are Dermal Fillers?
A dermal filler is a type of facial filler that may be used as part of a cosmetic procedure to restore a more youthful and vibrant appearance to the face. This non-invasive, non-surgical cosmetic procedure helps tone the face and improve overall appearance, boosting confidence and comfort.
Contour thin lips for a smoother and more plump appearance.
Improve shallow contours, reducing facial shadowing.
Soften wrinkles and creases in the face for a more youthful appearance.
Reduce and lighten the look of recessed facial scars.
Fill in creases under the eyes with Restylane.
Augment cheekbones and other areas of the face.
Eliminate wrinkles on the forehead, around the nose, and mouth.
Combat the aging of hands.
What are the Benefits of Facial Fillers?
Facial fillers are so popular with patients because of the many benefits they provide.
No downtime, and minimal recovery period
In most cases, achieves immediate results
Plumps and lifts sunken cheeks
Restores lost facial volume
Achieves smoother, more youthful skin
Fills wrinkles, lines and creases
Smoothes and fills hollows under the eyes
Plumps the lips attractively
Smooths away wrinkles around the mouth
Stimulates the production of collagen
Post-Procedural Recovery:
An ice pack is often used to help alleviate swelling. Patients usually do not require medication for any discomfort: injection sites may be tender for a day or two, but individuals are usually able to resume their regular routines almost immediately. To minimize bruising, it’s helpful to avoid aspirin for 10 days, and anti-inflammatories like Motrin, Advil, Aleve, and Ibuprofen, and fish oil for 3-4 days, if possible.
The beauty of facial fillers is there is typically no downtime and no need to take off work to recover.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is a popular cosmetic injectable treatment. This is due to its ability to naturally rejuvenate the skin and repair the signs of ageing by using our own platelet rich blood cells. In many cosmetic practices this procedure is called “The Vampire FaceLift”.
WHAT IS IT?
PRP is a form of cosmetic injectable treatment that uses the client’s own platelet rich plasma. The plasma component contains stem cells and growth rich platelets. When injected back into the skin, it accelerates the body’s natural production of collagen and elastin to provide overall skin rejuvenation.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Firstly, a topical anaesthetic is applied to the area that will be treated. Secondly, our clinician will draw a small sample of blood. This is then spun in a centrifuge for approximately five minutes to separate the plasma from the other blood particles. Lastly, the platelet rich plasma is then reinjected back into the treatment area, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
WHO IS IT FOR?
PRP is great for anyone who is concerned by any areas of skin that are starting to lose elasticity and volume. It’s also a highly effective method for stimulating your body’s cells to produce new, healthy looking skin. It is extremely effective for that delicate under eye area where often clients notice signs of ageing first and where no laser can be used. It is also used to increase the structural integrity and health of the skin, particularly sun damaged skin.
IS IT SAFE?
Yes, PRP is actually a very safe injectable treatment. This is because you are using your own natural elements without the addition of any foreign products.
Does drinking water help keep the skin supple?
It does because it replenishes the water content of the innermost layer of skin, the dermis which contains 70 percent of the skins water content. The dermis acts as a reservoir for the epidermis (outer layer) which constantly loses moisture through the surface, a process called trans- epidermal water loss (TEWL) that occurs in all healthy skin. However when the epidermis’s water content falls below 10%, the surface will appear dry and lose smoothness and suppleness. If you drink the normal 8-10 glasses of water a day (not coffee, diet soda) you should hydrate your skin sufficiently.
What is the "Shadow Rule"?
If your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s damaging rays are at their strongest and you are likely to sunburn. Five or more sunburns double your risk of developing skin cancer. One in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during your lifetime. Most sun damage occurs in the first 18 years of life when skin exposure to harmful ultraviolet light is greatest and when preventive measure are least employed due mostly to inadequate public awareness. An estimated 10,590 people will die of skin cancer this year… a 10% increase from last year.
I am an active person and outside. What can I do to prevent sun damage?
A lot. Since you are an outdoors person and staying out of the sun is impossible, you can protect yourself in many ways. Wear protective clothing and accessories, such as long–sleeve shirts and pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses. Apply sunblock at least 20 minutes before you go out and reapply every 2 hours for maximum effectiveness. The hours between 10am and 4pm are the most hazardous for U.V. exposure. Follow the “Shadow Rule”
What is a CO2 Laser?
CO2 laser is a high-powered fractionated laser that delivers stable energy in short pulses. It creates an ablative thermal effect that resurfaces skin from the epidermis with precision and control. In effect, the treatment removes aged and damaged skin, and the body replaces the unhealthy skin with new, healthy cells, producing potentially dramatic results in just one session. The laser’s thermal damage also contracts existing collagen, firming up the skin while boosting new collagen production.
CO2 fractional laser treats the following skin concerns:
Fine lines
Wrinkles
Acne scars
Scars
Stretch marks
Uneven skin texture
Crepey skin
Sun-damaged skin
What to expect during treatment?
Before your procedure a topical numbing cream will be applied for increased comfort during the treatment.
With the C02 laser the physician will gently stamp the laser over the area to create thousands of microscopic perforations at various depths while leaving the surrounding tissue untouched. As the perforations heal, new cells appear to reverse the signs of aging.
With the RF Microneedling Treatment, you may feel slight pressure and tingling while the micro-sized needles gently penetrate the skin and deliver heat to stimulate collagen production.
IS THERE DOWNTIME AFTER THESE TREATMENTS?
Although down time is minimal, each treatment is different on how you will heal, how many treatments are required, and when you will see the results.
Ultra light/Ultra: Immediately post treatment, your skin will be pink and feel very warm. Your provider will provide aftercare regimens to optimize treatment results. The next day you will notice a pattern forming over treatment area which will begin to scab and sluff over next few days. This process lasts 3-7 days.
Refine: There is no downtime, your skin will be moderately red immediately after the treatment, but this will subside within a few hours.
Revive: Downtime after this treatment depends on the skin condition being treated. Superficial procedures require a few days to heal while deeper treatments require a week.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS DO I REQUIRE?
Ultra: Most patients see significant improvement after just one treatment.
Ultra Light: Most patients require 3 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart.
Refine: Most patients require 3-4 treatments spaced 3-6 weeks apart.
Revive: Number of treatments depends on the condition being treated. 1-3 treatments are usually required spaced 3-6 weeks apart.
WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS?
Ultra: after the exfoliation process is done, you will see immediate improvements in your skins appearance. This improves over the next 3-6 months as new collagen is produced.
Ultra Light: After the exfoliation process, you will see immediate changes in your skins tone and texture that will improve after each treatment.
Refine: Results are seen 3 months after your last treatment. To maintain these results, maintenance treatments are recommended every 12-18 months.
Revive: Patients see improvements after 4-6 days or when the exfoliation process is done. You will continue to see improvements over the next 3-4 months.
AM I A CANDIDATE?
Ultra/ Ultra Light/ Revive: Safe and effective on patients with a skin type of I-III on the Fitzpatrick scale.
Refine: Excellent treatment for patients with all skin tones.
The Treatments excluding PRO Refine for patients with a skin type other then I-III are not recommended to get this treatment due to increased risks for adverse effects. Speak to your provider to find out more information.
Secret PRO treatments are not recommended for any patient who is –
Pregnant
Has a cardiac pacemaker
Has any implantable metal or medical device in the treatment area
Has any active condition in the treatment area such as sores, psoriasis, eczema, and rash
What is RF Microneeding?
RF Microneedling utilizes ultrafine needles, along with LED lights emitting radiofrequency waves, to produce thermal energy. The process involves irritating the skin and stimulating its repair response, while encouraging the body’s ability to naturally produce collagen.
Typically, the treatment involves a device with an array of insulated fine needles designed to puncture the top layer of skin, about up to 3 millimeters deep. High-intensity radiofrequency energy is applied in a fractional pattern through microneedles to trigger collagen and elastin production.
A serum with specific nutrients that help to build that new collagen and elastin more quickly can be administered immediately afterward. This results in smoother, firmer, and more even-toned, collagen-rich skin. Often PRP ( Platelet Rich Plasma) is utilized.
The Secret PRO RF Microneedling treatment series improves some of the most visible signs of aging by reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, large pores, stretch marks, acne scars, and many other skin concerns. This treatment is ideal for skin revitalization of the face, neck, decollate, knees, and other body areas.
Microneeding Treatment, Results and After Care
Before the procedure, your provider will apply a numbing cream to the treatment area for increased comfort during the treatment. During the treatment, you may feel slight pressure and tingling while the micro-sized needles gently penetrate the skin and deliver heat to stimulate collagen production. The treatment is comfortable, and your provider will work with you to maintain your comfort level throughout the entire treatment. You can expect the treatment to take about 20 minutes.
RESULTS
Best results are seen 3 months after the last treatment. To maintain your results, maintenance treatments can be done every 12-18 months after the initial series.
After Treatment
Typically, there is no downtime after the treatment. Your skin will have moderate redness after the treatment, which will subside significantly within a few hours. Your face will feel warm, like being in the sun, which also goes away within a few hours. You can expect to return to your normal activities immediately following your treatment. You may have some slight flushing the next day, which can be covered with makeup.
Be sure to limit sun exposure after treatment, and always wear a broad spectrum sunscreen, especially on treated areas.
We recommend SkinMedica’s Total Repair + Defense sunscreen, which protects against UVA/UVB rays, infrared rays, and also supports the skin’s natural ability to heal itself. You can find this sunscreen at our office.
Laser Hair Removal, will my treatment hurt?
No! Completely Pain-Free -One of the major benefits of the Motus AX, is that the Moveo technology eliminmates the discomfort of typical laser hair removal. Most people only feel warming sensations making the sensation making the experiences a highly comfortable one.
How Long Will My Treatment Take?
Treatment length will vary depending on the area being treated. The Motus AX is relatively fast and able to complete a large area in under 5 minutes.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions required to eliminate hair completely depends on the individual. A typical laser hair removal regimen is 5-6 sessions spaced one month apart, and then the maintenance treatments as needed. Given the efficacy of the Motus AX, you may need fewer sessions and could go longer before needing a touch-up treatment.
Is the Alma Laser/ClearLift Painful?
The ClearLift™, formerly known as Pixel Q-Switch, is a virtually painless, non-ablative approach to laser skin resurfacing. Using 1064 Q-Switched laser technology, patients are enjoying fast, comfortable treatments with visible results and no downtime.
An Alternative to Traditional Laser Skin Resurfacing Alma’s technology delivers a controlled dermal wound without harming the overlying epidermis. Therefore, all stages of healing and skin repair occur under the intact epidermis. Because ClearLift heats deep beneath the skin (up to 3mm in depth) no numbing is required prior to to treatment and all skin healing happens without damaging the outer layer of skin. ClearLift offers many advantages:
Fast and Easy to Use – Treatments in as little as 20 minutes
Virtually Painless
No post-treatment down time
Visible improvement in skin appearance in as little as one treatment*
Versatile – the 1064 nm Q-Switched module is also indicated for tattoo removal, pigmented and vascular lesions, nail fungus and more
The Q-Switched module in indicated for use on all skin types (Fitzpatrick I – VI)
Now with Depth Control Now you can choose the right tip for your patient ClearLift 4D allows providers to maintain the height you want for the treatment depending on the skin type or area being treated. For the face, neck and decollete variable dip depths can also be used for combination of work on the same area for optimal results.
What is a Subnovii Plasma Pen?
The Subnovii Plasma Pen is an advanced FDA-approved Class II device that treats even the most delicate areas of one’s skin. It works very effectively on skin issues such as fine lines, loose skin, acne scars, and other signs of aging.As opposed to a very invasive facial procedure, the pen works even on sensitive areas without using any intrusive methods. It also offers varying levels of intensity, so the power can be adjusted according to every patient’s goals and expectations. The pen is a major innovation in fibroblast technology and can trigger the skin’s natural healing response and collagen production for achieving the desired aesthetic results.
HOW IS THE SUBNOVII PLASMA PEN TREATMENT DONE?
During your initial consultation, our skilled team will perform an assessment of your skin to determine the appropriate target areas that need to be treated. Before using the device, a local anesthetic will be applied to the chosen treatment areas to ensure that you feel comfortable throughout the treatment process.
After anesthetic has taken effect, the Subnovii Plasma Pen is placed on the target areas to release plasma energy and create micro injuries on the skin. These small injuries will trigger the body’s biological healing process and the regeneration leads to the development of new, tighter and healthier skin tissue.
WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM YOUR SUBNOVII TREATMENT?
Because the plasma device creates an instant wound on the skin, small scabs will form that can take 5-10 days to fall off. The scabs are a natural and protective barrier to the magic taking place below. Because the treatment area is immediately sealed, there is a very low risk of side effects but the skin may feel tight and itchy as the area heals. Once the scabs fall off, the skin beneath may look pink. This is renewed skin and any redness should progressively fade.
WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED WITH SUBNOVII?
The most popular areas to treat are around the eyes (both upper and lower), peri-oral (around the mouth), forehead, jawline, decollete, and neck. Because Subnovii can target very specific areas of concern, your provider may discuss combining with other aesthetic treatments.
HOW LONG DOES THE TREATMENT TAKE?
The length of the procedure will depend on the area you are treating. This is an ‘in office’ procedure and you’ll easily be you may be headed home minutes after the procedure.
WHAT POST- CARE STEPS ARE REQUIRED?
Every patient will receive specially formulated post-care products and instructions to keep the area dry to help with the healing process. It is important to use sun protection long after treatment.
WHEN WILL YOU SEE RESULTS?
Results can be seen immediately after the treatment and beyond. You will see continued improvements for up to 6 months after your Subnovii procedure.
What is Permanent Makeup?
Makeup has been used for decades to enhance the beauty of a face. It is always improving and people have found a way to make it last longer. Permanent makeup tattoo or cosmetic tattooing was developed to give people fuller brows, plumper lips, eyeliner that never smudges, or to cover up scars and imperfection.
Pre/Post Care Permanent Makeup
Great Permanent Makeup doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by appointment! Please read the following to ensure the best micropigmentation results.
• Please do not work out the day of the procedure because body heat opens pores.
•Avoid heavy sunlight, especially sunburn 3 days before the procedure. The skin should not be going through a healing process!
•Do NOT drink an excessive amount of caffeinated drinks the day of the procedure.
•Do NOT not take Aspirin, Niacin, Vitamin E, and/or Ibuprofen, Omega 3, unless medically necessary, 48-72 hours prior to the procedure (Tylenol or Acetaminophen is okay!)
•Do NOT take blood thinners.
•Do NOT drink alcohol or energetic drinks 24 hours before the procedure.
•If you don’t know if you are allergic to lidocaine, pigment, or makeup, schedule a patch test with us in advance.
• Avoid Retin-A, Accutane, Steroids and Antibiotics, Chemical Peels
Post Care –EYEBROWS
• Day 1- Blot eyebrows with wet cosmetic pad until there is no blood or sebaceous fluid and apply a light layer of ointment
• Day 2-3 Clean eyebrows by blotting with wet cosmetic pad and apply ointment with Q-Tip approximately 2-3 times daily. Do not use antiobiotic creams unless you are instructed to do so by a doctor. No double dipping, no touching, no scratching, rubbing or picking of the treated area. When showering let soap and water flow over the treated area.
•Day 4-7 Apply ointment 2-3 times per day
Itching and flaking may appear during the frist seven days post procedure. Avoid picking or scratching as it can pull off scabs prematurely and cause patchy results or scarring. However, experience has shown that by following these after-care instructions, these symptoms may quickly disappear.
The following must be avoided during all 14 days post procedure:
Increased sweating
Practicing sports
Swimming
Hot sauna, hot bath, or Jacuzzi
Sun tanning or salon tanning
Any laser or chemical treatments or peelings, and/or any creams containing Retin-A or Glycolic acid on the treatment area
Picking, peeling, or scratching of the micro pigmented area in order to avoid scarring of the area or removal of the pigment
Performing tasks related to heavy household cleaning such as garage or basement cleaning where there is a lot of airborne debris
Drinking alcohol in excess, as it may lead to slow healing of wounds
Driving in open air vehicles such as convertibles, boats, bicycles, or motorcycles
Post Care- EYELINER
• Day 1-5 apply ointment with Q-Tip 2 times daily. No DOUBLE DIPPING, no touching, no scratching ,no scrubing or picking of the treated area. Artificial tears/eye drops may be used if desired. When showering let soap and water flow over the treated area.
THE FOLLOWING IS TO BE EXPECTED
Do not wear contact lenses or eye makeup for 72 hours
If your lashes are sticking together, moisten with warm and remove residue
Puffy eyelids for 2 or 3 days
Mild tenderness
Redness or mild brusing around the eyes
Itchiness
Final results will be obtained in 4 weeks
May require touch-up after 4- 6 weeks
Post Care- LIPS
Apply a generous amount of ointment as needed. When showering let soap and water flow over the treated area. Before brushing your teeth, seal lips with ointment first. Drink through a straw until lip are fully healed.
THE FOLLOWING IS TO BE EXPECTED
Extreme dryness in the treated area
Peeling
Pat ointment onto lips, rubbing ointment onto lips may remove pigment
No SPICY foods
How Do I Know If Microblading Is Right For Me?
Because of the high demand for microblading, I wanted to explain a few key factors in the decision making process on whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure.
The best skin for this type of cosmetic procedure is dry, normal, and with no previous tattooing in the area.
Fear not! This does not mean you are unable to get your dream brows!
We have different techniques that we use for individual situations.
Microblading Alone May Not Look Appealing On People With Skin Conditions Listed Below:
Oily or combination skin:
Excess oil production will cause migration (blurriness)
The strokes will not retain the original shape and will most likely migrate into a softly shaded or blended effect
Dilated/large pores on forehead area:
Microblading may not heal as clearly
Enlarged pores give texture to the surface and the eyebrow will not look as natural
Sunburned/sun-damaged skin:
Sunburned skin needs to heal before any procedure can be done
Since UV radiation compromises the overall health of the skin and damage is cumulative, it’s not likely that the result will be satisfactory
Sun lovers will need more touch ups than average since the color fades faster
Skin that bleeds easily:
This skin condition will have trouble retaining pigment as mentioned before
this includes skin types such as hypersensitive, thin, prone to acne, rosacea and showing capillaries
Bleeding and microblading are not a good combination!
Constant shedding skin:
Constant shedding skin or irritated skin won’t hold pigment well since the healing process will happen in different speed than average
Skin conditions that cause shedding include psoriasis, keratosis pilaris, dermatitis, eczema and clients using Retin-A, Retinal, Tretinoin, AHA (topical), Accutane (internal use) or any other kind of skin care that promotes regular basis “peeling”
If you still decide you want to have the procedure, we recommend those product should be avoided for at least 90 days prior to the eyebrow procedure
Uneven skin texture:
Skin on eyebrow area that’s raised from scarring, moles, piercings, or breakouts will have trouble retaining pigmentation
It is harder to implant pigment on scar tissue due to hardness, thickness and bleeding
These reasons should not completely exclude you from being a candidate for a microblading procedure! Please reach out and schedule a consultation to go over your options ♥
How Long Does Permanent Makeup Last?
Due to the soft natural pigments used, your procedure should last two to four years, at which time you can choose to have it retouched or let it gently fade away. Touch up can be done at anytime to enhance the procedure.
Who Should Get Permanent Makeup?
People who want to wake up beautiful and look their best all day.
People with allergies to conventional cosmetics.
Those with poor hand/eye control.
Swimmers, athletes, or people too busy to re-apply make-up several times a day.
Individuals with facial scars/flaws or asymmetry.
Those who need corrections done from past Permanent Cosmetic Procedures.
Those with scars or bald spots from burns, laser or plastic surgery, etc.
What If I Have A History Of Cold Sores?
You must be pre-medicated before the procedure with Antiviral medication. (LIPS ONLY)
How Long Does A Permanent Cosmetic Procedure Take?
The procedure usually involves 2 office visits.
Procedure: This takes about 2 hours
Touch ups :This is recommended 4 to 5 weeks after your initial procedure. This is suggested so that we may see how well the color took. Usually, a minor touch up is all that is needed and will add to the longevity and beauty of your procedure.
How Much Discomfort Will I Experience During My Procedure?
Clients claim that getting a permanent makeup treatment is not painful, but can be a little bit uncomfortable, depending on the tattooed area. Liliana usually uses numbing solutions to reduce the pain. The client is informed of what steps to take to prepare for the treatment and given the post-care tips, which are very important in order for the tattoo to heal properly.
How Do I Know If Permanent Makeup Is For Me?
We will be happy to answer all of your questions courteously and discretely at your initial consultation.