Thursday, September 27, 2012

One Year and Going Strong

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate our
 1 Year Anniversary!

It was a huge success! We had tons of people come through, ate lots of food, enjoyed clinic tours, mini make-up lesson, door prizes, sample & demonstration by Vivier Skin Care, and mini consultations with Dr.Lamont.

We have chosen the winners for all 6 draws and they have been contacted. Congratulations to them! And better luck next time for all our other amazing clients. We will be hosting an event here at the clinic once every few months, featuring a different service/skin concern. So stay tuned for that!

Heres a few snap shots I was able to get at the beginning of the night before it got busy:


Thank you for all your support!!

Friday, September 21, 2012

LHR: The Right Questions to Ask

Whether you're coming for Laser Hair Removal at Guelph Medical Laser or a clinic near you, here are some important questions to ask your Skin Consultant/Technician:

1. Where were you trained and/or certified? Can I see your certificate/diploma?
There is not 1 standard training for Laser Technicians. Make sure their education is reputable and legit. There should be diplomas or certificates hanging on the wall. Feel free to enquire about their schooling as much as you`d like.

2. Who is the Doctor on staff? How long have you been in business?
Be familiar with the business and the residing Doctor. There should be the option to meet with the doctor before treatment begins.

3. What laser do you use for hair removal, and which is best for my skin type?
Make sure she knows about her machine and which works better on certain skin types. She should be able to articulate why one is better than the other, specifying the right one for you.

4.  How many sessions will I need?
Know what you`re in for before you sign up. The average treatment number for permenant hair removal is 4-8 sessions. Ask about package deals to save a bit of money.

5. Can you treat me if I have a tan?
If they answer is yes: walk away. You cannoy preform LHR on a tanned skin, no matter how the technician justifies it. The only way to treat a tanned skin is on a very low setting with very little results.

6. Am I a good candidate?
Some types of hair make patients poor candidates for LHR. Greys, white or red hairs will not be effected by lasers. If you have very fine downy hair as well, you may not be a good candidate. Check with your Consultant.

7. How many laser hair removal treatments have you performed?
Make sure your technician is experienced, especially with multiple different skin types.

8. How many lasers are on the premises, are they rented or owned?
The more lasers they have, the greater the chances you will be treated appropiately and the safest for your skin colour and hair type. Be wary of rented machines because that insinuates they only do a few treatments a month.

9. What results should I expect?
Your technician should be able to articulate the estimated results; redness, hair loss; pain etc. Keep in mind, there are NO guarantees in this business. Everyone reacts differently to the lasers and youre results will vary from patient to patient.

10. How safe is Laser Hair Removal?
No harm in being reassure that LHR is 100% safe if preformed properly by a certified professional.

The goal in the end is to feel comfortable and confident in your technician, no matter how many questions you need to ask. We want you to feel relaxed and excited about your treatment!

Call 519-837-1897 to book your FREE consultation!

Open House Reminder

We cant let you forget our biggest event of the year... Our Open House!

This coming TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25th from 4pm-8pm!
*Drop in any time that you can*
 
 
 

A recap of what will be happening :

1. Meet our Reps. Vivier, CoolSculpting, and Jane Iredale representatives will be here to answer questions, product demonstrations and mini consultations. Our lovely Jana from Vivier Skincare will be set up at a booth to show you product, and help you find whats best for your skin type!





2. Giveaways, prizes and swag bags. Just for coming, we will give you 20% off ALL products & 50% Off ALL microdermabrasions. (Can purchase for a later date or as a gift card)
Door prizes include : Vivier Skincare Kits, 5 CoolSculpting treatments, Microdermabrasions, Fraxel resurfacing, hair removal packages  & more!





3. Enjoy some yummy snacks, sandwiches, desserts and our famous chocolate fountain :)  while you explore our clinic and all it has to offer.

Dr. Lamont looks forward to meeting you!
4. Mini consultations with Dr. Lamont and staff. We will be mingling around, and openly discussing any questions you have or clarification on treatments we offer.




5. Magic FM Radio will be broadcasting live from our event :)

 


Don't miss out on the party, or you'll be sorry ;)
 
89 Dawson Road Suite 209
Guelph Medical Place 2
Parking will be validated

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Look Younger in Minutes

Watch this short video demonstration on Botox Cosmetic and see for yourself just how easy this procedure really is. 

 

There is no other way to make yourself look more youthful and refreshed in just minutes.

LHR : Good Bye Tans

Fall is approaching, faster than we'd like, and slowly our tans will start to fade. To most of you, this may be a bad thing in your eyes. We at Guelph Medical Laser are cheering you on as you lose your tans.. because... that means its back to getting your Laser Hair Removal!

This summer alot of clients take a break from Laser Hair Removal, simply because it is very difficult to stay out of the sun (understandably). But now that the days of laying at the beach, hanging outside all day long are over... its time to come back and see us!

Why cant you have a tan with Laser Hair Removal?
**warning.. I'm about to get tecnhical**

When the laser beam is transmitted onto the skin, the beam is designed to search solely for pigmentation (the colour in your hair, skin and eyes). It will find the darkest pigmentation first, being your hair but may affect the surrounding pigmentation in your skin IF you dont abide by the rule "staying out of the sun". If you have an active tan (meaning = 4 weeks old or newer) the laser may get distracted by it and not target the hair only. This could result in a temporay burn or small blister.

It is for your safety that we do not permet a tanned skin to be lasered. That being said, rule of thumb : consult with your technician about the safety and efficacy of your treatment each time, and discuss your recent sun exposure openly and honestly.  :)

**Read more Q&A on Laser Hair Removal at this blog spot HERE**

Few facts about Laser Hair Removal (LHR)


  • LHR has been FDA approved since 1995
  • Any body part can be lasered, excluding the eye brows.
  • Dark hairs are effected much more than light hairs
  • White, grey or red hairs will not be effected by the laser
  • There is no laser that can remove your hair in 1 treatment
  • The LightSheer Diode (our laser) requires a minimum of 5 treatments.
  • LHR procedures are completely  safe when preformed by certified professionals in the appropriate environments.
  • The LightSheer can not affect any muscles, tissues or even nerves within your skin and is completely safe to perform on any body part.
  • The laser beam reaches about 5mm into the skin.
  • Some sessions can be as quick as 10 minutes! (Lunch hour appointment?.....)
  • You will see noticable results after just 1 treatment!

Give us a call to book your consultation or next Laser Hair Removal Treatment! 519-837-1897

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Fraxel for Acne Scars

 

 

If you have acne scars you’re not alone.

  Simply put, Fraxel was the first laser of it’s kind in the rejuvenation market and has performed well over 500,000 treatments across North America with an unparalleled record of research, FDA clearances, proven results and physician endorsements. Although you might hear other clinics talk about their “fractional” or “pixellated” laser treatments, there is only one Fraxel. There’s just nothing else like it for safely and effectively improving the appearance of your skin and creating a renewed self confidence.

The way Fraxel works is by shooting microscopic laser columns deep into the dermis causing tiny wounds, which trigger your body’s natural response system to heal those wounds. This speeds up the remodelling of the natural collagen and elastin in your skin which results in smoother, tighter, fresher and more youthful looking skin. Just as important is the area of skin that Fraxel treatment doesn’t touch. Because the treatment is so precise, the laser columns target only a fraction (get it? – “fractional”?) of skin at a time, leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This fractional treatment allows your body to heal the skin faster than if the entire area were treated at once.

Acne scars can occur as the skin heals from breakouts, whiteheads and/or blackheads. These scars are typically indented marks or raised, red areas that sometimes give the skin a wavy appearance and are caused by a variety of factors. Fraxel effectively removes damaged skin on the surface and reaches deep into the skin to stimulate collagen remodeling. In this way, Fraxel acne treatment improves the elasticity, texture and tone of your damaged skin while keeping your healthy tissue intact—which minimizes any discomfort or downtime.

Traditional approaches—such as deep chemical peeling, conventional lasers, topical agents and abrasion therapies—usually achieve only moderate results or, worse, they destroy a lot of healthy tissue along with the scar, and often require long recovery times. Fraxel Laser is also better to remove acne scarring instead of more invasive treatments (such as CO2) because there is minimal downtime.

Fraxel Acne Treatment Before & After
Fraxel Acne Treatment Before & After
Fraxel Acne Treatment Before & After
Fraxel Acne Treatment Before & After
 
Over 20 million people in North America suffer from acne. Acne scars left over from your teenage years can have a negative affect on your self-esteem. The Fraxel may be the solution you’re looking for to get rid of those embarrassing acne scars

Find out more about Fraxel laser by visiting our website, checking out our blog post "Fraxel: SkinResurfacing" Or, simply give us a call at 519-837-1897or e-mail at info@guelphlaser.ca to book your consultation and get started on the road to clear, smooth skin, and a brighter, more confident future!

Fraxel: Skin Resurfacing

How does the Fraxel Laser Treatment work?
The innovative Fraxel Restore Laser is specially designed to alter only fractional volumes of the target tissue. Similar to precise alteration of photographs and paintings, the clinical effect of this treatment technique is to alter the appearance of aging and sun-damaged skin. The creation of tiny microscopic wounds results in a wound healing process and a response to the coagulation of collagen fibers.

What are the benefits?
After your very first Fraxel Laser Treatment, you will begin to feel the difference in your skin, as it gradually becomes softer, smoother and fresher. Fine lines around your eyes will noticeably fade. So will uneven coloring and the brown spots caused by aging and sun exposure. Fraxel is considered the treatment of choice for Acne Scarring and effective for other scars such as post traumatic or surgical scarring.

What does the Fraxel Laser treat?
Fraxel Laser is probably the best treatment available for removing acne scars (check out our Acne Scar blog for more information). Fraxel is also used to eliminate age spots/brown spots, melasma, surgical scars, stretch marks & fine facial wrinkles.

What does the treatment feel like?
Treatment is well tolerated and feels like a prickling sensation. A topical anesthetic ointment is applied prior to treatment to allay any discomfort. Highly effective treatment with minimal downtime. Results can be comparable to full resurfacing techniques.

How long does the treatment take?
The anesthetic requires 45-60 minutes to take full effect. The treatment is then performed using the lipid base anesthetic ointment as the contact lubricant. A treatment typically will take approximately 20-25 minutes.

Is there any downtime?
You may experience a mild sunburn heat on your skin for up to 3 hours after your treatment but will subside quickly. Mild swelling should subside within a day or so, and redness usually fades over several days. Patients can apply make-up immediately after treatment and return to routine activities.

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Think You' re Too Young for Botox?

Think again! Studies are showing that women are receiving Botox injections at a younger age as a preventative measure. How ingenious!
A lot of people are under the misconception that Botox is for mature people, when in fact the younger you start the better.

Botox is commonly used in areas that have dynamic muscle movement like the scowl lines, between the brows. The more you scowl, the deeper the lines become. On a regular basis, Guelph Medical Laser treats women of all ages with Botox Cosmetic. Some as young as 21, and as mature as 80. At any age, Botox is 100% effective. But if youre looking for a complete smooth forehead and crows feet, the real trick is to catch the lines before they become too deep and never truely fade.

 



"Think of your skin as a piece of paper. If that paper gets crumpled, and you try to flatten it back out, the lines remain visible on the paper. Use preventative measures like paperclips to keep your 'paper' smooth and fresh”
 
Botox relaxes the muscle under the skin, thereby stopping the wrinkling effect you see on the skin’s surface. Which brings me to the point that Botox is a safe, easy and extremely effective way to deal with unwanted lines and wrinkles for people of all ages.

If you want more information on how Botox can help your unwanted lines and wrinkles call the office at 604 421 3111or visit our website

Monday, September 17, 2012

6 ingredients for Healthy Skin

There are really 6 ingredients for healthy skin, but with all the new creams, lotions and potions available today, how are we supposed to know what really works? So, what are these 6 ingredients? Let’s start with the “A’s”:

Retinoids are derivatives of Vitamin A and are used to smooth the skin’s surface, even skin tone, increase blood flow & unclog pores. “They may even help to prevent some types of skin cancer,” according to Doris J. Day, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at New York University. And according to Ranella Hirsch, president elect of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgeons, “retinoids are the one topical treatment actually proven to regenerate collagen”. Retin-A has FDA approval for the treatment of acne as well as skin regeneration and can be found in topical prescription products such as Tazorac.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s) are a family of acids that include glycolic, citric and malic acid discovered in 1974 by two scientists from Temple University when they were searching for a cure for ichthyosis (extremely dry skin). They found that the acids helped to smooth the skin and also improved the thickness of the skin. AHA’s provide a reliable mechanism for exfoliation without being rough like scrubs and therefore allow other ingredients to penetrate the skin more easily and effectively.

Hyaluronic Acid is known for it’s ability to bind water to the skin. And as we all know, water retention leads to plumping, which is a good thing for skin and lips (not so much for the tummy or hips!). There are lots of topical products that have hyaluronic acid, but unfortunately the molecule size is too big to effectively penetrate the skin. That’s why there are injectable products like Restylane, Teosyal and Juvederm. With injectable hyaluronic acid, we can fill deep lines like the ones from the nose to the edges of the mouth, as well as naturally enhance lips, cheeks and tear troughs. The effects last anywhere from 9 to 18 months, as hyaluronic acid is naturally absorbed and metabolised by the body.

Hydroquinone is a lightening agent that works by inhibiting the enzyme that forms pigment in the skin. Hydroquinone offers a solution for hyper-pigmentation in skin types that are unable to be treated by other methods such as Photorejuvenation. Recently kojic acid and some botanical extracts have been touted for they’re lightening abilities, but nothing so far has been as effective as hydroquinone.

Antioxidants are a group of vitamins and nutrients that are used to fight “free radicals”, molecules generated by sun damage and pollution, that damage the DNA of healthy skin cells which leads to wrinkles, discoloration and even cancer. Vitamin C is at the top of this group. Vitamin C was originally studied for it’s ability to stimulate collagen production, but was found to be really good for protecting the skin from sun damage and can be found in Vivier Skin Care products

Finally, there’s Sunscreen. We’ll discuss sunscreen in more depth in our next blog because it gets a little confusing with all the SPF’s, UVA, UVB, physical or chemical blocks. Basically, without a good sunscreen applied every day, you don’t have a good skin care regimen. Sun exposure is the biggest cause of discoloration, wrinkles and premature aging of the skin. A good sunscreen is one that will protect your skin from the burning rays of the sun (UVB), as well as the aging rays of the sun (UVA). UVA’s can also lead to skin cancer, so it’s really, really important to wear a good sunscreen applied several times a day, every day, whether you work outside or in, summer, winter, spring or fall.

I know it’s a lot to take in, so if you have more questions or would like to schedule a skin care consultation, give us a call at 519-827-1897 or e-mail us at info@guelphlaser.com
We’ll be glad to assist you any way we can.

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Latisse - Eyelash Enhancement


Get longer, thicker, better Lashes!
Latisse will give you the Lashes you've always wanted!

It honestly works. Check out some of our before and afters HERE and HERE

Friday, September 14, 2012

Open House Inviation

Reminding everyone about our event to remember!
Tuesday September 25th from 4-9pm!

BOTOX: How Does It Work

Repeated muscular contractions such as frowning and squinting form lines known as dynamic wrinkles. Botox Cosmetic works by relaxing the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, giving the face a more relaxed and refreshed appearance.

The procedure is so simple and quick that patients can often have it done over their lunch hour.

Botox Cosmetic continues to be the most popular among all cosmetic procedures (surgical and non-surgical combined). In North America it has been used by more than 2 million women and men like you, who want to take control of their appearance and look as good as they feel.

The dose of Botox depends on the muscle strength, size of muscle, and the age and sex of the patient. There is considerable individual variation as well. The “average” female glabella (between the brows) usually requires 25-30 units of Botox to obtain adequate relaxation. The cost of Botox is priced per unit, and is very affordable.

Here’s a couple before and after photos:



 

Photos courtesty of Dr. Marcia Fleming, British Columbia


Thursday, September 13, 2012

Melasma : Pregnancy Mask

Okay, Melasma, commonly known as the “pregnancy mask” is a regular occurance. You are not alone - and you know what? There is a treatment to correct it!
Melasma presents itself as a dark facial skin rash with irregular borders. The rash is usually recognized by its symmetrical presentation on the cheeks, lips, nose or forehead.

Skin discoloration can also occur on the upper arms. The skin discoloration can vary in color ranging from a dark brown to a deep grey.

The condition is universal and seen in all cultures and ethnicities; however it is far more commonly seen in Asians, Hispanics, Arabs and North Africans who all seem to have higher levels of melanin in their skin and a tendency to tan. Individuals with fair skin may experience a lighter shade of melasma which is not always recognized.
The cause of melasma remains unknown but is believed to be due to an increase in the production of cells which release the pigment melanin, which is responsible for the dark color of the skin.
What causes the increased production of melanin is not known but some triggers include:
  • Heredity factors and hormone fluctuation/production: the rash is most common in pregnant females
  • Prolonged sun exposure
  • Use of birth control pills
  • Certain medications like tetracycline and anti-malarial drugs (derived from quinine)
Melasma is not related to any medical disorder and by itself is a harmless skin condition despite the cosmetic concern associated with its appearance on facial skin. Diagnosing melasma in pregnant women is relatively simple, yet in men and women who are not pregnant, drug related skin reactions and other medical conditions may have to be ruled out.


What is the treatment for melasma? Sun protection is the most important part of treatment for melasma, since the pigment will continue to darken with sun exposure. Sunscreens must be worn daily. Combinations of bleaching and fading creams together with laser treatments for pigmentation, such as Fraxel® laser treatments, can be used to fade the pigment.

Why is Fraxel® Laser Treatment more advantageous over other laser treatments for pigmentation?
  • It improves all types of melasma pigmentation.
  • It can be used on all skin types, including darker complexions, and multiple treatments are required.
  • Lightening of the pigment can be seen within a few weeks.
  • It improves the texture and radiance of the skin.
  • It improves sun damage, brown spots, and wrinkles which usually occur with melasma.
So, to schedule your confidential consultation call 519-837-1897 or email info@guelphlaser.ca  to enjoy clearer brighter skin!

"Cool" Facts on CoolSculpting


5 ”Cool” Facts on CoolSculpting:
  1. This procedure involve no needles, surgery or down-time. Patients can resume daily activities, even exercise, almost immediately after each treatment.
  2. The entire procedure typically takes ONE hour.
  3. On average patients will experience about a 20% reduction of fat on the area treated.
  4. This procedure is proven to be an effective way to reduce fat without the pain, risk, and recovery time of some surgical procedures.
  5. CoolSculpting only targets fat cells. The surrounding tissue and skin is left unharmed.

This procedure is revolutionary. Call now for your complimentary consultation,
519-837-1897 or visit our website http://www.guelphlaser.ca/coolsculpting.html

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Compression Stockings

Compression Stockings are used to treat and control varicose and/or spider veins on the legs.

The Physician orders appropriate compression for the client based on their diagnosis. The client is then measured for the compression therapy stockings. They choose style, colour that are most appealing to them. Compression Therapy Stockings help to slow down the severity of their condition, but do not take it away. They incerase the circulation to the lower extremities by compressing the blood vessels helping the force blood back up the leg. The compression is strongest around the ankle and gradually decreases toward the thigh.
It is best to combine corretive treatment with prevention.

Benefits
reduces superficial vein diameter
improves calf muscle pump
improves lmphatic flow
improves deep venous flow
reduces reflux and edema
reduces toxicity to deep vales


They are
Aestheticially pleasing
easy to apply
reduce symptoms
assist invasive treatments

Indiciations that you may need them
leg swelling, aching, tiredness
varicose veins
visible spider veins
DVT (deep vein thrombrosis)
prevention of travellers thrombrosis

Friday, September 7, 2012

Platine : Tiffany package!

Coming very soon to Guelph Medical Laser ............................



When you purchase a Platine Collection
 
 we will give you a Vivier Skin Care kit
 
for only $49.99!!! 

 
reg. $300.00
 
 
That's 6+ months worth of product!
________________________________________

 
Too Good To Be True!

 

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Our Secret Weapon : Platine!

I'd like to introduce you all to our secret weapon...

Vivier Platine Anti-Aging Collection

The Platine collection is composed of 3 products; Peptide CR Eye Creme, Peptide CR Complex and Peptide CR Creme.

These 3 products together will do miracles to your skin; rejuvenating skin; boosting and protecting collagen; improving appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; leaving you with a youthful and radiant complexion!

Let me explain it how.

As we age, the skin around our eyes, on our face and our neck begins to lose its strength and silenece. This is due to molecules in our skin and things from the environment, breaking down our Collagen.
Platine combats this process using 3 important ingredients :  Vitamin C, Retinol, and unique Peptides.

Vitamin C :
- Boosts collagen synthesiss
- Powerful antioxidant
- Helps even skin tone
- Natural exfoliant

Retinol
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- Stimulates epidermal turnover
- Increases blood flow to the dermis

Peptides
- Boosts collagen production
- Helps organize collagen fibrils
- Protects collagen from degradation
- Helps firm and hydrate skin

The most important ingredient is the Unique combination of Peptides.
How do Peptides work? They act as a messenger between cells/molecules, giving orders.
How do they help within my skin?

Their 3 main functions of the Peptides in Platine are to :
1. Boost Collagen production
2. Organize Collagen
3. Protect Collagen

1. Boost Collagen.The peptides deliver a message to our Growth Factors in our skin and tell them to WAKE UP and PRODUCE more collagen! After we reach the age of 21, our growth factors start to fall asleep and slowly begin our aging process. By the time we reach our 30s, our growth factors start to need a serious BOOST! Wake up your collagen growth factors with the Platine Peptide CR Creme!

2. Organize Collagen. A great example is to imagine a handful of pencils, secured with an elastic band. This represents your organized collagen, before degradation takes over. Lay a piece of paper over the top of the pencils, and this represtents your skin ontop of your collagen. As we age, we lose that "elastic band" and the pencils scatter, leaving the skin with wrinkles and sagging.
The specially designed peptides act as the elastic band and wrap around our collagen fibrils, holding them tight under the skin.

3. Protects Collagen. Within our skin we have cells known as MMP 2 and MMP3 that attack and break down collagen. The unique peptides within the PLatine Collection, act as a sheild and protect around our newly organized collagen; sheilding it from those nasty MMPs!
 
Those who have tried Platine, are blown away. It is much much more than other products they have tried! If you are serious tired of the wrinkles, dull complexion, sagging aged skin - this product will be your best friend!
Come in and try a sample of our secret weapon ;)