Elta MD UV Physical Tinted Sunscreen

The Elta MD UV Physical Tinted Sunscreen is a product now available at A E Skin. It has become very popular for many reasons. First of all it has an SPF of 41 (the American Academy of Dermatology recommends sunscreens with SPF of at least 30). It is chemical-free and water resistant. It rubs onto the skin easily and is absorbed quickly. It is ideal for both sensitive skin and for children. But perhaps the most popular aspect of the sunscreen is that it is lightly tinted so it does not leave a thick white residue that it seen with many sunscreens; and because of the tint, many women do not need to use foundation after applying it. This sunscreen is one of many Elta MD skin care products now avaialble at A E Skin.

Laser Skin Tightening

What is Laser Skin Tightening?

Laser skin tightening utilizes pulsed light technology to deeply heat your skin while cooling and protecting the entire treated surface. The treatment is provided quickly and comfortably with no downtime. The end result is a more youthful appearance.

How does Laser Skin Tightening work?



Model (Courtesy of Dr. Gloria Lopez, MD)



The procedure utilizes infrared energy to deeply heat dermal collagen. This process promotes partial denaturation and contraction of collagen. The heat also initiates the body’s natural healing process, which creates a renewed collagen foundation leading to increased skin firmness. Powerful cooling maintains the outer surface of your skin at a cool temperature before, during, and after each pulse providing the patient a comfortable and safe procedure.

What is the treatment like?

The light energy is delivered in a sequence of rapid, gentle pulses. There is no need for a topical anesthetic. A series of pulses will be repeated over the treatment area to ensure best results. While the face and neck can typically be treated within 30 minutes, the actual time will depend on the area treated.

What should I expect after treatment?

You may experience some mild redness in the treated area immediately after treatment and this should return to normal within minutes. Since the procedure is noninvasive there is no downtime so you can resume regular activities immediately following treatment. You can also apply sunscreen after each session.

What results should I expect?

Model (Courtesy of Dr. Jody Levine, MD)

Laser Skin Tightening results may vary from patient to patient. The procedure is recommended for patients who desire moderate, noticeable skin improvement without having to undergo surgery. Full results often take up to six months as the collagen foundation of your skin is rebuilt and strengthened.

What areas can be treated?

Treatments are safe for all skin colors and can be performed on any area of the body where an improvement in your skin firmness is desired. Popular areas include the face, neck, abdomen and arms. Consult with Dr. Alex regarding the treatment options that are best for you.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments needed will vary from patient to patient and Dr. Alex can personalize a treatment plan based on the level of improvement you desire. Most people undergo an initial series of three treatments at three to six week intervals. Dr. Alex may also combine laser skin tightening with other popular aesthetic procedures to further personalize your treatment.

What aftercare do I need?

It is important to carefully follow the aftercare instructions. No special skin care regimen is required following treatment. However, you should always protect your skin from direct sun exposure and use a sunscreen with SPF at least 30 with broad spectrum coverage every day. Dr. Alex can also recommend an at home skin care regimen if desired.

Solutions to Dry Skin in the Fall and Winter Months

As the Fall progresses and the Winter approaches, the weather begins to change. There are a number of effects of this change on the skin; the most common is dryness, which can be difficult to manage. The solution to dryness begins with a healthy lifestyle including eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep. These serve to reduce the stress on the skin which can lead to redness, itchiness, and dry skin. The next step is to make sure there is enough moisture in the skin. There are two aspects to this: getting water into the skin and preventing it from leaving the skin. To get an appropriate amount of water in the skin, it is important to first be well hydrated by drinking at least eight cups of water daily. If there is not enough water in the body, it can not get into the skin. Thirst is an indication of dehydration and you should drink plenty of water to avoid getting thirsty. To get the water into the skin, I recommend using hydrating serums, such as those containing hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid binds one thousand times its weight in water and draws the water into the skin from the blood supply, providing a tremendous amount of hydration to the skin. To prevent water from evaporating from the skin surface, use plenty of moisturizers. Moisturizers are best applied on a wet face so that the moisture on the skin is retained. Be sure to use moisturizer twice daily, or even more if necessary. Lighter moisturizers are more comfortable during the day while thicker moisturizers work well at night. Follow these steps to avoid having dry skin as the seasons change.

What is Xeomin?

Xeomin (also known as incobotulinum toxin A) is a neuromodulator like Botox and Dysport made by Merz Aesthetics, the same company that makes Radiesse. It has been used in Europe for several years under the name Bocouture and now is FDA approved for treatment of frown lines just like Botox. It is currently used in the United States to treat certain neurological conditions and it is expected to be commercially available for cosmetic use in the United States in 2013. The active component in Xeomin is identical to that in Botox and Dysport, but it lacks what are called accessory proteins. For patients, this means there is a decreased theoretical risk for resistance, but this has not been shown in studies. The results are similar to that of Botox and Dysport: the onset is less than one week and duration of effect is three to four months. The most significant difference is likely to be the cost of the product. The cost has not been released yet, but is likely to be more competitive than that of Botox. This competition will likely drive down the cost of Botox and Dysport, making it more affordable for patients.

Realistic Expectations for Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic procedures are becoming more and more common nowadays, especially minimally invasive or non-surgical procedures. These include injectable treatments such as Botox and fillers; laser treatments such as hair removal, photofacials, and resurfacing; and chemical peels. A common concern is that patients do not see the results they want immediately. It is important to have a thorough discussion with your doctor prior to your treatment about realistic expectations for each procedure. These procedures for the most part are directed at treating various aspects of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, laxity, discoloration, and textural irregularities. It is important to understand that these changes did not occur overnight, and consequently will not be corrected overnight. Furthermore, one must realize that minimally invasive procedures will not produce results equivalent to surgical procedures such as a facelift.

Standardized photography is critical to be able to see results. Photographs should be taken prior to the procedure and several weeks after the procedure to be able to see good results. These photographs should be taken in the same positions, with consistent lighting, and without makeup or jewelery. It is common for people to forget what they looked like before a procedure because we look at ourselves in the mirror every day and hence remember what we looked like yesterday.

Before undergoing a cosmetic procedure, be sure to talk with your doctor about what kinds of improvements you will see and how long it will take to see improvements. Also be sure to take photographs before and after the procedure to see the changes.

Pro Fractional Therapy

Pro Fractional Therapy is a type of laser procedure performed by Dr. Alex now available at A E Skin. 

Model (courtesy of Dr. Adam Baker, MD)

What is Pro Fractional Therapy?

Pro Fractional Therapy is a quick and comfortable laser procedure with little downtime, used for improving the overall appearance of your skin. The procedure is performed in the office and can be custom tailored to your specific skin conditions and desired outcome.

How does Pro Fractional work?

Pro Fractional uses a tiny laser beam to treat thousands of pinpoint areas of your skin. Because only a fraction of your skin is directly treated with the laser, the surrounding untreated tissue promotes rapid healing. This skin’s wound healing response creates new collagen which add firmness and resilience to the skin.

What is the primary application of Pro Fractional?

Based on an assessment of your skin condition and cosmetic goals, Dr. Alex may recommend Pro Fractional when minimal downtime is desired.

What areas of the body can be treated?

Most skin areas can be treated. Popular treatment areas are the face and neck, though many people also treat the chest and hands. You should discuss your needs with Dr. Alex.

How many treatments will I need?

Excellent results can be obtained in just one treatment, though the number of treatments may vary from patient to patient. Dr. Alex will personalize a plan based on your specific needs and may recommend combining Pro Fractional Therapy with other aesthetic procedures to further personalize your treatment.

What will happen during the procedure?

Your skin will be cleaned in the treatment area and your eyes will be protected with safety shields. A laser handpiece will be positioned gently on the skin. When the laser energy is applied, you will hear a rapid succession of snapping sounds. The handpiece will be moved around to adjacent locations until the entire treatment area has been covered. The procedure normally takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Will it be uncomfortable?

Pro Fractional therapy is widely regarded as a comfortable procedure, usually tolerated with the use of a topical numbing cream or a local anesthetic, depending on the depth of treatment.

What should I expect immediately after the treatment?

Immediately following the procedure you may experience mild redness and a sensation resembling sunburn. Dr. Alex will provide specific after-treatment care recommendations, which may include analgesics and application of an ointment to keep the skin moist.

How long will it take to recover?

Complete healing typically occurs within a few days and most patients usually feel comfortable enough to get back to work and apply makeup a day or two after the treatment. There will likely be some swelling that will subside within several days following the treatment.

What aftercare do I need?

It is important to carefully follow the aftercare instructions. Your skin will be sensitive to ultra-violet light after the procedure, so you must avoid direct sun exposure until fully healed. Fully cover your skin or use a sunscreen with SPF at least 30 with broad spectrum coverage every day. Avoid heat, alcohol, and exercise for at least 24 hours after the procedure, because this can draw blood to the skin and lead to unwanted side effects such as blisters and discoloration.

When should I expect results?

As your skin heals in the days following your treatment, you may notice a general tightening effect. However, the true benefit of Pro Fractional is the collagen remodeling that occurs during the 3 to 6 months following your treatment.