Cutera is a laser company based in San Francisco and founded in 1998. They have pioneered laser technology over many years and are considered as world leaders in the provision of medical laser technology and laser machines.

The Cutera XEO laser system is a multi-application technology used for over 92% of all laser and light-based treatments. It’s a non-invasive, non-ablative and customizable system that allows treatments to be personalised according to skin type, skin colour, and skin concerns. As such, the Cutera XEO technology delivers a level of flexibility and individualisation that is not available from other laser systems.

Cutera XEO combines 2 laser applications, the LimeLight and Nd:YAG, which enables the system to address a wide range of concerns, including:

• Facial rejuvenation and revitalisation
• Skin tone, texture and quality
• Fine lines and wrinkle
• Active acne
• Acne scarring
• Surgical scars
• Sun damage
• Hyperpigmentation and pigmented lesions
• Redness and rosacea
• Thread veins
• Unwanted hair

Laser Genesis

Laser Genesis is the Cutera XEO signature treatment, using the Nd:YAG laser. By stimulating new collagen production, it can treat a range of skin concerns, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven texture
• Dullness
• Redness, including rosacea or melasma
• Large pores
• Active acne and acne scars

It is a pain-free treatment which can be done in 30 minutes and with no downtime – hence it’s nickname “the lunchtime laser facial”. It is also low risk and one of the safest procedures available. Unlike some other laser treatments, it is also suitable for any skin types, tone or colour. Whilst results can be seen after just one treatment, a course of 4-6 treatments are recommended for full benefit, with benefits lasting for 6 -12 months.

Laser Genesis can also be combined with the Limelight laser to provide a 2D skin facial rejuvenation, by treating two different layers of the skin for added benefit. Whilst the Nd:YAG wavelength of 1064nm targets the mid-dermis to stimulate collagen production, the Limelight addresses more superficial pigmentation, sallowness, enlarged pores, fine lines and telangiectasia.

For further information of Laser rejuvenation treatments available at Shine Medical Cosmetic Clinic, visit:

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/laser-treatment---laser-genesis

Laser pigmentation

Laser pigmentation treatments are delivered using the Limelight technology. This specially designed laser is absorbed only by the cells containing excessive concentrations of melanin. It does not affect the surrounding tissues or remove the normal skin colour. This is a non-invasive approach to revitalising skin with the advantage of improving skin tone, removing unwanted skin pigmentation and surface imperfections. Three to six treatments are usually sufficient to see results, which can be permanent, depending on the level of further sun exposure.

For further information of Laser pigmentation treatments available at Shine Medical Cosmetic Clinic, visit:

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/laser-treatment---pigmentation

Laser vascular

Also referred to as spider veins, thread veins are tiny blood vessels which run close to the surface of the skin. They look like thin red or occasionally purple or blue lines. They are commonly found on the face and  legs  but they can appear anywhere on the body. Laser treatment is a safe, effective way to banish thread veins. The light from the laser is directed at the veins causing them to heat up very quickly. This heat causes the vein to break down and collapse in on itself. The damaged vein gradually dissolves and is removed through the body’s natural immune system, leaving the skin smooth and clear. Typically, 6 treatments are required to see optimum benefit.

For further information of Laser vascular treatments available at Shine Medical Cosmetic Clinic, visit:

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/laser-treatment---vascular-lesions

Laser hair removal

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair. The laser light is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat, which damages the tube-shaped sacs within the skin (hair follicles) that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth.

Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for permanent hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well. Laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair.

Compared to other hair removal technology and devices, laser hair removal is the most powerful and effective method available.

For further information of Laser hair removal treatments available at Shine Medical Cosmetic Clinic, visit:

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/laser-treatment---hair-removal

For a FREE consultation to discuss laser treatments or any other treatments provided by Dr Shyna, use the following link to book your appointment now:

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/book-now

Benefits of Vitamin A for Skin Health

Vitamin A helps to improve the health of your skin. They work by normalising how your skin cell functions, which in turn helps your skin to stay strong and healthy.

What are the benefits of Vitamin A?

• Improves skin barrier function- thus protecting it from irritants and germs.
• Improves skin cell turnover- thus, improving overall skin texture and tone.
• Stimulates skin cells to produce collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid which leads to improving skin firmness, elasticity and hydration and thus, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Decreases clustering of Melanin granules – thus reducing brown spots or pigmentation.
• Improves blood flow to the skin– taking nutrients and oxygen to the cells.
• Repairs the cellular structure of the Epidermis – optimising your UV protection.
• Has anti-inflammatory properties and decreases sebum production and therefore, it is used in the treatment of acne.

Where do we get Vitamin A from?

Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin that is naturally present in many food like fish, eggs, meat, liver, fruits, vegetables etc.

There are also various dietary supplements available in the market.

But remember, too much and too little Vitamin A is harmful for health.

Vitamin A Skin Care products 

Incorporating Vitamin A in your skin care regime can be very beneficial for the reasons mentioned above.

Your skin needs to start out using small amounts of Vitamin A in a gentle and effective formula, slowly building up it’s tolerance, before you can increase into the stronger more active versions.

Choosing your Vitamin A skin care product can be very confusing, as there are many different forms and not all products are suited to everyone’s skin type. Using the wrong products can lead to potential side effects. Therefore, it is really important that you discuss with a medical professional before starting Vitamin A skin care products regarding what product is best for you.

If you want to discuss about how you can incorporate Vitamin A into your skin care regime, contact Shine Medical Cosmetic Clinic. 

Book your free consultation with Dr Shyna who will be happy to assist you in choosing the right skin care product for you.

For more information about medical grade skin care products, visit website:

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/medical-grade-skin-care

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/contact-us

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/book-now

What is 3D Powersculpt and how does it work?

3D Powersculpt is one of the latest revolutionary treatment for body shaping, sculpting and muscle toning. The technology uses High Intensity Focused Electromagnetic energy which cause High Tension Muscle Contractions of the muscles throughout the treatment, much greater than can be achieved through a conventional workout. This therefore exceeds the effects of an intense workout by exceeding the highest amount of tension your muscles can exert and hold under normal condition (Maximal Voluntary Contractions). An additional benefit of Powersculpt is that due to its mode of action, unlike conventional workouts, it does not lead to an accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles. This lactic acid production in conventional exercise is what creates the muscle pain and aching during and after workouts.

What are the benefits of 3D Powersculpt?

As a consequence of the stimulation of muscle contractions, Powersculpt results in muscle building, toning, sculpting and fat burning. Just one 30-minute Powersculpt treatment is equivalent to 20,000 crunches, squats, curls or leg extensions. So, with Powersculpt, you get all the benefits of a high intensity workout whilst lying down for 30 minutes, without any lactic acid production. All gain, no pain!

Which muscles can be treated with 3D Powersculpt?

Most commonly, 3D Powersculpt is used to treat abdominal muscles, but it can also be used to treat arms, buttocks, legs and thighs.

Who can benefit from 3D Powersculpt

Anyone may benefit from 3D Powersculpt treatments, ranging from professional athletes looking to maintain existing muscle tone and bulk through to older people looking to restore muscle bulk and tone.

How many treatments do I need and how long does it take?

Usually, benefits are seen after 4 treatments, but for maximum benefit, a course of 8 treatments are recommended. When receiving a course of treatments, it is recommended that 2-3 treatments are carried out per week with at least 48 hours between treatments. Therefore, a course of 8 treatments can be completed in 3-4 weeks.

For further information, visit: https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/3D-Powersculpt

BOOK NOW at:

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/book-now

The skin is the largest organ of our body and it plays several important roles in protecting our body against the outside world. This is vital for our health and wellbeing. That is the reason why protecting and looking after our skin is vital. The functions of skin include:

• Barrier function- prevents invasion from irritants and germs
• Protection- from UV Radiation and production of Vitamin D
• Prevents moisture loss
• Regulates body temperature
• Vehicle for removal+ elimination of toxins from the body
• Produces collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid- which provides structural framework to the skin.
• Sensory function-the sensory receptors in the skin helps you feel various sensations like touch, pain, heat, cold etc.

Basic skin structure

Epidermis – the outermost layer which acts as protection for underlying layers

Dermis – the middle layer contains collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid which are essential for skin health

Hypodermis – consisting of layers of subcutaneous fat to provide protection and structure.

SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) –a fibrous layer overlying muscle layers.

Skin cell cycle  

Skin cell renewal occurs within the deeper layers of the skin with new skin cells moving outward toward the epidermis. This process takes 6-8 weeks. The deeper layers of the skin contains connective tissue with collagen and elastin fibres that provide the support required for the skin's flexibility and strength.

What happens when our skin ages?

The ageing process affects the entire facial structure, including skin, subcutaneous fat, muscles and facial bones.

As we age, the following changes take place within our body:

• The outer skin layer (epidermis) thins out. In the dermis, collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid levels decrease gradually over time especially after the age of 30. This leads to loss of structure and elasticity of the skin which causes fine lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, pigment changes and sagging of the skin.
• There is also gradual loss of subcutaneous fat which contributes to the loss of structure that holds up the skin.
• The skin cell turnover slows down- this in turn, slows down the regeneration process of the cell renewal in the deeper layers of the skin. This causes reduction in the density of the skin and uneven texture.

Protection of our skin - is vital to promote healthy skin function and to slow down the ageing process. It is important to drink plenty of water (at least 2 litres) to avoid dehydration and eat a healthy balanced diet. It is also very important to use sunscreen (SPF 30+) on a daily basis to protect against the harmful UV rays, which can also accelerate the signs of ageing. Another really important step in looking after our skin is to have a good regular skin care regime using medical grade skin care products. At Shine Medical Cosmetic Clinic, we have a wide range of medical grade skin care products which can be tailored to your skin care needs. More information on skin care is available on our website: https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/

At Shine Medical Cosmetic Clinic, there are a varied range of skin care treatments available to help promote healthy skin function and reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture, dull skin, age related volume loss, pigment changes, acne and other signs of ageing. These include:

Please visit our website: https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/ for more information.

Book a FREE Consultation/Contact us to explore the range of skin care/anti-ageing treatments:

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/book-now

https://www.shinemedicalcosmeticclinic.co.uk/contact-us

What is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy is a minimally invasive method of removing unwanted tissue by the precise application of extreme cold. The process is called cryo-necrosis (tissue destruction by freezing).

How does it work?

Cryotherapy works by applying Nitrous oxide. which rapidly freezes and destroys targeted cells without causing unwanted damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

How is the treatment carried out?

Treatment is carried out using a device called CryoPen O+. This is an innovative, high-performance cryotherapy tool. Cryopen O+, which can only be used by medical professionals, allows treatments to be given with pin-point precision for removing all benign skin lesions quickly and effectively and without causing collateral damage to healthy tissue.

What can be treated?

CryoPen O+ can be used to treat a wide variety of benign skin lesions, such as benign moles, warts, verrucae, skin tags, solar lentigi, age / sun spots, pigmented spots, actinic keratoses, seborrheic keratoses, hemangiomas, cherry angiomas, molluscum contagiosum and condyloma.

What are the benefits for patients?

Cryopen O+ treatment offers the following benefits:

·       Versatile treatment options (treats lesions from 1mm to 20mm in size)

·      Quick treatments (treats a 2mm lesion in 10 seconds)

·      Pain free treatments

·      Safely treats lesions on the face and close to the eyes

·      Pinpoint accuracy, treats just the lesion and not healthy surrounding tissue

·      No follow up care needed

·      No downtime after treatment and minimal aftercare precautions

·      No anaesthetic required

·      No incisions, no sutures, no bleeding, no scarring

A long-awaited aesthetics licensing scheme proposal has been released by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). This marks a significant moment in the search for improved regulation of non-surgical cosmetic procedures in England.

It confirms that the government will be introducing a legally enforceable licensing scheme for aesthetic procedures. This will involve defining each of the procedures that the scheme will relate to, identifying tiers of procedures and setting minimum standards of education required to practice each of these procedures.

In their report, the government highlights that current regulation of aesthetic practice places few restrictions on who can perform non-surgical cosmetic procedures. It is hoped that through a regulatory framework, public safety and public protection will be improved, by enabling consumers to make informed and safe choices when undergoing procedures which have the potential to cause serious injury or harm.

It is hoped that licensing will ensure consistent standards and protect individuals from the potentially harmful physical, emotional and psychological impacts of poorly performed non-surgical cosmetic procedures by practitioners who are not appropriately trained.

Main aims of the new aesthetics licensing scheme:

The government has stated the following aims for its new licensing scheme:

·      To identify the procedures that present a risk to the public

·      To consist of 2 interlinked components: a practitioner licence and a premises licence

·      To be administered and enforced by local authorities, who will work with a range of partners such as environmental health officers, trading standards officers and the Health and Safety Executive

·      To make it an offence for an individual to carry out non-surgical cosmetic procedures without a licence

·      To require those people who offer procedures to be suitably trained and qualified, hold appropriate indemnity cover, operate from premises which meet the scheme’s standards of hygiene, infection control and cleanliness

·      To introduce a minimum age of 18 for those people seeking to receive the procedures licensed under the scheme.”

As well as the above main aims, tighter regulation of dermal fillers is being considered, by making them prescription-only medications.

In his role as Chair of the Joint Council of Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP), Professor Sines states, “In recent years we have seen a massive growth in the number and types of non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Alongside this growth, we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of complaints about substandard treatments, unregulated cosmetic products and unsuitable treatment premises."

“All too often it is the NHS – and therefore the taxpayer – that has to pick up the pieces when a cosmetic procedure goes wrong. The Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners has seen a 400% increase in complaints in the last year alone, so we warmly welcome this important step towards proper regulation. Nothing is more important than public protection and patient safety.”

It is important to remember that many non-surgical cosmetic procedures are invasive medical procedures. Without appropriate knowledge and training and an appropriate environment to conduct such treatments, the risk of complications is increased, some of which can lead to serious and permanent harm. Improved regulation will protect those undergoing such treatments, by ensuring that practitioners are appropriately qualified and trained.

For further details: https://www.jccp.org.uk/NewsEvent/government-consultation-released-big-shake-up-for-the-cosmetics-sector

Effects of sun on the skin

Sunlight consists of Ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are also used in tanning beds. Exposure to UV rays is essential for the production of Vitamin D in humans, which is crucial for bone health, and the immune functions of the skin. However, only small amounts of UV ray exposure are required for these beneficial effects. In greater amounts or with prolonged exposure, UV rays also have a damaging effect on skin and a big impact on the skin’s ageing process. 80% of external causes of ageing skin (so called photo-ageing), which can be seen as coarse or craggy skin, pigmentation, uneven skin texture and premature fine lines and wrinkles, are due to exposure of the skin to UV rays.

It is a myth that having a sun-tan is a sign of health and well-being. The presence of a sun-tan is a sign of skin damage caused by UV rays. Repeated tanning is therefore a cause of premature skin ageing caused by photo-ageing.

There are 3 types of UV rays:

UVA – These are responsible for accelerating the ageing process of the skin. Importantly, these rays can penetrate clothing, glass and clouds. They are also carcinogenic, increasing the risk of skin cancer by causing damage to DNA and reducing the body’s ability to combat abnormal cells.

UVB – These are responsible for causing sunburn, but are screened out by clothes, glass and clouds. They are also carcinogenic in the same way as UVA rays.

UVC – these rays are screened out by the atmosphere’s ozone layer and therefore, very little of these rays reach the surface. They, therefore, have little impact on humans.

UV rays cause photo-ageing of the skin by causing destruction of the main components of the structural framework of the skin, namely collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid and by stimulating the production of free radicals, which cause damage to skin cells.

What do sun protection creams?

As can be seen, UV rays in sunlight or from tanning beds can be extremely damaging and harmful to the skin. But the harmful effects of UV rays can be reduced by the use of appropriate sun protection creams. These form a barrier preventing harmful UV rays from reaching the skin. All sun protection creams have an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating. The higher the rating, the more effective the protection from UV rays. It is important to remember that any sun protection cream must have agents in them to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. It is also important to remember that UVA rays can penetrate clothes, glass and clouds. This means that even on a cloudy day in the Winter months, UVB rays can cause damage to the skin. It is, therefore, important to use sun protection creams all year round.

How to maintain skin health with sun exposure

There are 3 important components of maintaining skin health at any time, but particularly during sun exposure. These are:

Hydrate – During hot weather, the body needs more fluids to avoid dehydration, which is why we drink more when it is hot. In the same way, the skin can become dehydrated during hot weather and sun exposure and therefore, the use of moisturisers is even more important than usual to maintain skin hydration.

Nourish –An effective method of preventing free radicals causing damage is via the use of Vitamin C and Antioxidant products, which neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. The use of Vitamin C and Anti-oxidant serums is, therefore, an essential part of maintaining skin health at all times.

Protect – It is important to use effective barriers to prevent UV rays reaching the skin , by using sun protection creams and these form an essential part of preventing photo-ageing.

Why choose OBAGI skin products?

Widespread on any high street, it is easy to find a whole array of moisturizers, Vitamin C and other Antioxidant products and sun protection creams. Indeed, it is a very competitive market, which drives prices down for consumers. However, whilst price is an important factor in choosing products to buy, a more important factor is the effectiveness of any products that are used.

With over 30 years of clinically proven results, OBAGI Medical Products are the Number 1 physician dispensed skin care range in the world. They are specifically formulated to transform the skin from within to result in younger, healthier-looking skin. The OBAGI Medical® Product range helps reduce the visible signs of ageing such as fine-lines, wrinkles, melasma (dark sports), hyper-pigmentation, laxity and uneven texture. OBAGI products are also designed and tested for every skin type.

OBAGI hydrators are non-comedogenic and use Isoplentix microfluidic technology to suspend Vitamin B3, Abyssinian Oil, and Hibiscus Oil in their purest forms. They also use biomemtic peptides, Shea & Mango Butter, avocado and Hydromanil to give comprehensive hydration.

Clinical studies have shown that OBAGI Vitamin C Serums offer significantly better penetration than other Vitamin C serums and are absorbed up to five times better.

The OBAGI sun protection range offers the following products:

OBAGI360 Hydrafactor comprises a 2-in-1 moisturiser with soothing ingredients and broad-spectrum sun protection to help prevent skin damage.

OBAGI Sun Shield Matte is an award-winning sun cream. It contains zinc oxide (10%), Homosalate and Octinoxate and provides non-greasy, broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is recommended for daily use by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

OBAGI Sun Shield Mineral is a sheer, quick absorbing formula, which is ideally used as a post-procedure cream. It provides comprehensive protection against UVA and UVB rays.

OBAGI Sun Shield Tint SPF50 (warm and cool) provides comprehensive protection against UVA and UVB rays and is also recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation for daily use. Warm and Cool tints allow for targeted selection of an appropriate sun cream to suit different skin types. Warm tint is best used for darker complexions and may be associated with ethnic skin, whilst Cool tint is best used for paler, fairer skin.

OBAGI Nu-Derm Physical Block SPF32 uses 18% zinc oxide and provides high UV absorption and dynamic UVA protection.