LENA BLOG

What is Botox?   I call this “Magic Poison.” And essentially, that is exactly what Botox is. It is actually the botulism bacterium (botulism toxin) that is injected into specific areas of the face, usually the forehead and between the eyebrows along with other areas. The poison renders the surrounding muscles paralyzed. Once the site is injected and the muscles are paralyzed, you are unable to express or move that area of your face. Without daily and constant expressing, lines do not furrow into the skin. So Botox, by paralyzing the muscles, indirectly helps to reduce the deepening of wrinkles. It lasts four to six months and has to be reinjected to continue the benefits. Botox has been used for years to help stop eye tics and other medical maladies. Around the 1990s it was “discovered” for its antiaging, cosmetic benefits. It was approved by the FDA for cosmetic use (between the brows specifically) in 2002. It is only administered by a licensed doctor, either a dermat...

What are pore cleansing strips?   Pore cleansing strips are a very well-marketed skin care fad. I wish I had been an investor in these products because I’m quite sure they have made millions. You can find a package of a dozen or so strips for under $10. If only a fraction of the country bought just one box, well, you can do the math. Years ago when these strips first came out, it seemed like every single client was asking me about them. I tried hard to find a store that had them in stock, but couldn’t. Finally when I found some, I immediately went home to see what all the buzz was about. I followed the instructions, and when all was said and done, I was not impressed. You are instructed to wet the pore cleansing strip and place it over your blackheads. (The first strips out on the market were specifically shaped for the nose. Now several companies make them for other parts of the face as well.) After the strip dries on your skin, it is ripped off (like a bandaid— ou...

A glycolic acid peel is what I consider a strong peel. Strong peels, using glycolic or other alpha hydroxy acids, will decompose surface cells. Strong peels create deep exfoliation . Deep exfoliation diminishes the appearance of lines, therefore, it stands to reason deeper peels should make you look younger. Because of this promise, many people will seek out the strongest peels available. Stronger peels can deliver a quick fix, but this fast-track mentality never brings just the desired results. There is always a consequence. Glycolic acid causes the capillaries to dilate , which brings more blood to the area. Blood carries oxygen and other nutrients to feed and nourish the skin cells. So far, so good. But glycolic acid can also weaken the capillaries. The hot sensation you feel with the application of glycolic acid is the intense dilation of your capillaries coupled with the acid that is decomposing dead cells. It is this excessive dilating that creates a cons...

This procedure should be termed micro epi dermabrasion . Micro means very small or involving minute quantities or variations; derma refers to the dermis or inner layers of the skin, but in the case of microdermabrasion it is— hopefully —only affecting the epidermis or outer skin; abrasion means to wear away by friction, through abrading. I would like to know how you feel about microdermabrasion. I am 35 years old and fine lines are starting to show, especially around my mouth (smile lines) and forehead. Do you think products would work just as well? The procedure is quite costly, $900 for 6 treatments. I’m trying to decide if it’s worth it or not. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Microdermabrasion is expensive, yet it is a superficial exfoliation of the outer skin. Anything more than that would not be allowed to be performed by a mere aesthetician. It can help to reduce the appearance of the fine lines, but not the actual lines themselves. Keeping your ...

What is microdermabrasion? There is a lot written about this anti-aging procedure. Let’s take a look at what all the fuss is about. There are no lasers or chemicals used in microdermabrasion. The procedure entails a small tube that sprays a jet of fine crystals (resembling sand) onto the skin’s surface, which helps remove dead and damaged cells. It is said to be painless and does not require anesthesia of any kind. It’s sometimes called a “lunchtime peel,” meaning you can go in on your lunch break and come out without looking too red or swollen. Many clients (myself included) didn’t find the procedure to be 100% painless. And when I did some experiments, getting microdermabrasion facials on just one side of my face (I’m the eternal experimenter!), the side that was abraded was very sensitive—even to the touch—for several days. Microdermabrasion helps regenerate new cell growth. It is said to stimulate collagen production and increase blood supply to the skin. With rep...

What is Retin-A?   Tretinoin is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A , related to a class of chemicals called retinoids . Most people are acquainted with the brand names Retin-A ® and Renova ® , so I will use these more familiar names when talking about tretinoin. Retin-A helps dissolve the bonds connecting your skin cells together. This increases cell turnover and can help to unplug the pores . Because of this dissolving action, Retin-A will help make the skin feel smoother as well as counteract the formation of blemishes . In contrast, in many people it also causes mild to severe irritation that leads to peeling or flaking skin. Your skin may feel smooth, but it may also look red and scaly . Retin-A is basically an irritant, and your skin responds as such. Many studies have been performed on the attributes and possible side effects of Retin-A, several touting its ability to stimulate collagen production. It is also said to encourage the development of...