I have learned one thing after 14 years of clinical practice of Dermatology and Cosmetic surgery. Don't believe in any new treatment or laser that is not supported by peer reviewed, scientific, double blinded, and properly controlled studies. As far as I know the safety and efficacy of this treatment has not been shown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGe50z_SR58&feature=related

I am biased and a strong advocate for the Coolsculpting or Zeltiq technique. Peer reviewed article and scientific histological studies show that it is safe and effective. Please read more about this on our website (under procedures).

A. David Rahimi,MD,FAAD,FAACS.

YES; Agressive CO2 laser or Dermabrasion can permanently kill the normal skin pigmentaion. This is very dificcult, if not impossible, to treat.

Avoid permanent problems such as this by using fractional lasers such as the Mixto CO2 laser.

A. David Rahimi,MD,FAAD.

Treatments cost as little as $300 - with a purchase of a package of 4 (normally $400/treatment)

All skin types can take advantage of this laser: Asian, Hispanic, Middle eastern, Armenian and more...

All treatments performed by Dr. A. David Rahimi; experience counts. I have performed over 100000 laser

treatments in the past 12 years.

www.foreveryoung.net

A. David Rahimi,Md,FAAD,FAACS.

Any device that states it can: “Help clear Acne, Acne scars, Grey or Thinning hair, and much much more is Full of hot Air!

Please watch this video on the correct use of Derma Rollers! Pretty complicated and sophisticated for a non-medical person. None of the patients who I have asked have been using these devices appropriately.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1NH-5-PUIc

Post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation (dark brown pigmentation), hypertrophic scarring (thickened scars), and spreading of Herpes and bacterial infections are possible outcomes of using these devices incorrectly.

A. David Rahimi,MD,FAAD,FAACS.

Dermatological and Cosmetic Services for
Patients with Dark and Olive-Toned Skin

Some physicians shy away from treating Hispanics, Asians, and African Americans because their skin heals differently than those with white or European skin. African American skin is prone to developing thick and unsightly scars and Hispanic and Asian post-op patients can develop light or dark skin discolorations.

These risks often prompt less-experienced physicians to discourage patients with darker skin tones from seeking laser treatments, chemical peels or cosmetic surgery. This isn't the case at with Dr. Rahimi and the Forever Young clinic.

With over 10 years of conducting and perfecting his treatments in such ethnically diverse cities as Washington D.C., New York, and now LA, Dr. Rahimi has become an expert in treating dark and olive-skin complexions. The following procedures have been tailored by Dr. Rahimi to specifically treat darker and olive skin tones. All of these treatments are minimally invasive, requiring only local anesthesia and minimal sedation. What's more, when the treatments are done in combination with each other, the results are far greater than when one treatment is done alone.

Chemical Peel

Chemical peels improve irregular color and fade deep lines. A superficial chemical peel removes the top skin cell layers, eliminating dead skin, tightening pores, and producing new collagen and elastic fibers. Recovery takes about seven to 10 days. Results may not be completely evident for up to a year but will last for many years.

Manual Epidermal Dermabrasion

Manual Epidermal Dermabrasion (MED) works to diminish fine lines, wrinkles, traces of acne and pigmentation. A scalpel is used to exfoliate superficial epidermal layer of skin before using a compressor to extract milias, tiny subcutaneous cysts, keratosis, and superficial rough spots. Carbon dioxide mixed with acetone is then applied, creating a "local freezing" that penetrates through the skin and is long-lasting. The procedure immediately refines and tightens the skin and promotes new collagen synthesis that lasts for weeks.

Commercial Fillers and Fat Transfers

Commercial fillers and fat transfers can be used to smooth out lines in the skin or lips. Commercial fillers include Restylane, a naturally occurring substance in the body that is based on non-animal hyaluronic acid. Restylane dissolves safely and naturally within the body over time. The longevity of the results depends on many factors such as the structure of the skin, lifestyle and age, as well as on the degree of perfection sought. The fat transfer technique involves removing fat from one part of the body, such as the thigh, and painlessly injecting it into the treated area. Excess fat can be frozen for future fat transfer procedures (Forever Young has a licensed & State approved Tissue Bank). The results from both commercial filler and fat transfer procedures last for years.

Thermage CPT

Thermage CPT is a highly advanced, non surgical technique used to achieve lasting skin tightening with no down time. This treatment involves heating the skin and underlying structures with radio-frequency followed by external cryogen cooling. The combined effect creates an immediate collagen contraction giving the appearance of tighter, younger skin. The Thermage CPT system is the most effective noninvasive, non-ablative (meaning no injury to the skin and hence no oozing, bleeding, etc.) radio-frequency system available. Improvement appears slowly over weeks as collagen remodels and the skin and underlying structures tighten. Results last from one to two years.

CoolTouch 3 Plus Laser Treatment

CoolTouch 3 Plus Laser Treatment removes acne scarring gradually and without surgery. This laser treatment is particularly used for deep acne scarring. Unlike other laser treatments, the CoolTouch laser protects the outer skin and sensitive nerve endings with a unique cooling spray while the precise laser pulses light onto the skin to stimulate fibroblasts cells (the cells that produce natural collagen in the skin's foundation). The laser pulses of light penetrate the skin, giving a sensation similar to a slapping of a tight rubber band. Because this is a cellular process, the results of the CoolTouch 3 Plus Laser Treatment happen over a period of months. Multiple treatments are encouraged.

Tuliplift Facelift

This mini-facelift procedure has been personally developed and patented by Dr. Rahimi himself. Dr. Rahimi has designed the Tuliplift Facelift to work very well with dark and olive skin tones. The minimally invasive procedure lifts sagging skin and tightens the neckline. And because the Tuliplift Facelift is done entirely under the skin, it requires only small incisions and produces a minimal risk of scarring. Patients usually recover within seven to 10 days, and have results that last for years.

And the newest Additions:

Mixto Fractional CO2 laser

(For the treatment of Acne scarring and discolorations)

and

Clear and Brilliant Laser

(This laser was introduced in 2011 to tone and refine the skin and remove brown spots.)

Read about these procedures under the "Procedures" section. Watch videos and look at dozens of Before and After photographs.

www.foreveryoung.net

Solta Medical has a brand new Laser called: Clear and Brilliant.

I believe that this laser will be greatly appreciated by patients with sensitive skin and patients with a darker skin complexion. I have written extensively about Olive and Ethnic skin and appropriateness of laser for this group of people.  

The Clear and Brilliant laser is ideally suited with patients with darker skin color. It addresses superficial skin imperfections, large pores, fine lines and helps lift the skin. I have treated patients with Asian and Hispanic background with no post inflammatory hyper or hypo-pigmentation. In other words, I have not noticed any light or dark spot arising from the laser treatments.

The procedure takes about 20 minutes and is performed after the application of a topical numbing cream. 

Redness lasts for a few hours and patients can return to work immediately. Post operative care is minimal and includes sunscreen and moisturizers.

A series of 3 to 5 treatments are needed to achieve long lasting results. all procedures are performed by the Doctor.

Please make an appointment for a complimentary consultation to see if you are a good candidate for this procedure.

With Clear + Brilliant we are committed to the safety of our treatments. However, as with any cosmetic treatment, there are risks, and we encourage those interested in a procedure to discuss the risks with their physician before moving forward with any elective treatment.

·         Indications for Use

Contraindications

·         Complications

·         Complaints and Adverse Events

·         Expected Responses to Treatment

·         Protecting your New Skin

·         Sun Protection

·         Routine Skin Care

Indications for Use

The Clear + Brilliant Laser System is indicated for use in aesthetic procedures requiring the coagulation of soft tissue, as well as for general skin resurfacing procedures.

In the skin, water is the primary absorber (chromophore) of the laser wavelength used in Clear + Brilliant. It can be safely used on all skin types.

Clear + Brilliant includes an Intelligent Optical Tracking System (IOTS™) that senses skin contact with the treatment tip rollers, and the motion of the tip relative to the skin surface. This feature ensures safety and uniform delivery of the treatment.

Your treatment provider will perform a pre-treatment consultation and decide, together with you, if Clear + Brilliant is adequate for you and the course of treatments will need.

Contraindications

Not all individuals will necessarily react the same way to the laser treatment.

The following (but not limited to) contraindications are routine for many laser treatments and may also be associated with Clear + Brilliant treatments. Your provider will perform a pre-screening and request you to sign a consent including these (but not limited to) contraindications:

• diagnosis / possibility of actinic keratosis, Melasma, rosacea, or other significant skin conditions (e.g. skin cancer, active infections, cold sores, open wounds, rashes, burns, inflammation, eczema, psoriasis),
• predisposition to keloid formation or excessive scarring,
• diagnosis of a condition that may compromise the immune system, such as HIV, lupus, scleroderma, and/or systemic infections,
• known sensitivity to light or if photosensitizing agents/medications are being taken,
• systemic steroids (e.g. prednisone, dexamethasone), which should be rigorously avoided prior to and throughout the course of treatment,
• use of retinoids should be avoided for at least 2 weeks prior to and during treatment,
• individuals undergoing Accutane™ (Isotretinoin) treatment or with drugs in a similar class,
• if skin is still recovering from a cosmetic procedure, such as a chemical or mechanical peel, or laser resurfacing,
• if Botox injections, or dermal fillers (such as collagen) have occurred within the past 2 weeks.

Solta Medical Inc. has no clinical information or experience concerning the use of Clear + Brilliant on pregnant women or nursing mothers.

Complications

There is a very low incidence of side effects and complications associated with laser treatment. The following complications are very rare but may be associated with non-ablative laser treatments in general. This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list, nor a substitute for informed consent, which should be provided by every individual.

Complaints and Adverse Events

Solta Customer Service should be contacted if Clear + Brillaint is involved in a complaint or adverse event.

Expected Responses to Treatment

Protecting Your New Skin

For treatments associated with Clear + Brilliant, new skin (epithelium) will start to form within 24 hours but will remain covered by the old superficial layer of the skin (stratum corneum). This new skin formation usually lasts for 4 days, but can be longer for some skin types. During that time, normal exfoliation will reveal the repaired skin tissue. You can protect it by avoiding aggressive exfoliation and by applying moisturizers and sun screen frequently.

Sun Protection

Sun exposure before and during treatment can increase the risk of unwanted pigmentation. After treatment the skin is more sensitive to the sun, which can increase the risk of unwanted pigmentation and sunburn. Post-treatment individuals should plan to use a high SPF sunscreen on a regular basis. Ideally, a dual UVA/UVB sunscreen should be applied containing both a physical sun block (either or both zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) with a sun protection factor of 15 of above. Applying sunscreen helps maintain good results. In general, it is recommended that direct sunlight is avoided and to wear sun-protective clothing (i.e. a wide-brimmed hat) when possible.

Routine Skin Care

As Dermatologists we often warn our patients against direct sun exposure. We see patients with horrifying and disfiguring Basal Cell Cancer, Squamous Cell Cancers and Melanoma. I have come to the understanding that modest amount of Sun exposure is good both for our physical and psychological health. Below is an article discussing the possible health benefits of Vitamin D in preventing internal Cancers.

A. David Rahimi,MD,FAAD

www.foreveryoung.net

Study Shows Three-Fourths of Cancer Patients Have Low Levels of Vitamin D

By Charlene Laino
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Laura J. Martin, MD

Oct. 4, 2010 (Miami Beach, Fla.) -- More than three-fourths of people with a variety of cancers have low levels of vitamin D, and the lowest levels are associated with more advanced cancers, a new study suggests.

High-dose supplements increased vitamin D levels to normal in most patients studied, but it is too soon to know if supplementation improved their outlook, says researcher Thomas Churilla, MS, a third-year medical student at Commonwealth Medical College in Scranton, Penn.

The findings were presented here at the annual meeting of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO).

Vitamin D and Cancer Risk

Vitamin D is found in some foods, especially fatty fish, milk, and fortified cereals. Vitamin D is also obtained by exposure to sunlight.

Some studies have suggested a link between low vitamin D levels and cancer risk and progression, but others have not. None has proven cause and effect.

Research in the laboratory suggests that vitamin D has anti-tumor properties, regulating genes involved in the multiplication and spread of cancer cells, Churilla tells WebMD.

For the study, the researchers collected blood samples from 160 men and women with cancer and measured their levels of vitamin D. The five most common diagnoses were breast,prostate, lung, thyroid, and colorectal cancers.

Among people in the study, 42% had vitamin D insufficiency, defined as levels between 20 and 30 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) of blood. An additional 32% had vitamin D deficiency, with levels less than 20 ng/mL.

Vitamin D Levels and Stage III Cancer

The average level of vitamin D was about 24 ng/mL. People with levels below 24 ng/mL were nearly three times more likely to have stage III cancer than those with higher vitamin D levels.

Criteria for different stages differ by type of cancer. But in general, stage III indicates more extensive disease than lower stages: larger tumor size and/or spread of the cancer beyond the organ in which it first developed to nearby lymph nodes and/or adjacent organs.

There was no association between low vitamin D levels and even more advanced, stage IV cancers that have spread throughout the body, however. Churilla says that could be because patients with stage IV cancers may have already been seen by a variety of doctors who treated them for vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D Supplementation

As a second part of the study, the researchers treated patients with low vitamin D levels with 50,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D a week for eight weeks. The recommended dietary allowance of vitamin D for most people is 600 IU a day, but much higher doses are often needed for the short-term treatment of vitamin D deficiency. This type of treatment should only be done under a doctor's supervision.

Low Vitamin D Levels Linked to Advanced Cancers

Study Shows Three-Fourths of Cancer Patients Have Low Levels of Vitamin D

 (continued)

Vitamin D Supplementation continued...

The average vitamin D levels of the supplemented patients rose to about 35 ng/mL -- in the normal range.

Now the patients have to be followed for months and years to see if vitamin D supplements appeared to reduce the chance of cancer spread and extend lives, Churilla says.

Phillip Devlin, MD, a radiation oncologist at Harvard Medical School, tells WebMD that such a study does not show cause and effect, only an association between low vitamin D levels and stage III cancer.

Churilla agrees. It could be that people with stage III cancer are more likely to have low vitamin D levels because they are sicker and don't eat as well or get out in the sun as much as people with less advanced cancer, he says.

Devlin says the study generates interesting ideas that need to be tested in larger, longer studies.

"We do not recommend vitamin D supplementation for cancer patients at this point," he says.

These findings were presented at a medical conference. They should be considered preliminary as they have not yet undergone the "peer review" process, in which outside experts scrutinize the data prior to publication in a medical journal.

INTRODUCING CLEAR + BRILLIANT

Solta Medical, the makers of Thermage and Fraxel, has recently introduced a new laser geared toward younger patients looking to prevent the signs of aging. The launch of Clear + Brilliant, a fractionated laser with minimal downtime, introduces a new category of laser treatments geared toward patient who are looking for more than run-of-the-mill spa treatments, but, as of yet, do not require the full transformative effects of more aggressive laser treatments, such as Fraxel.

Early reviews have been quite favorable. We are proud to offer Clear + Brilliant at Forever Young, Inc. Call today to schedule an appointment!

www.foreveryoung.net

323 653-7700

What is Clear Brilliant laser?

Clear and Brilliant is an FDA approved fractional laser device developed by Solta Medical targeted to work for skin rejuvenation and resurfacing on most common body parts (face, neck, hands, chests, etc.) that exhibit the early signs and symptoms of aging like the freckles, lines, fine lines, and wrinkles. It is the only laser system noted to be classified in between the less aggressive or common topical peels/solutions and the more aggressive or ablative cosmetic and laser aided treatments.

Clear + Brilliant can work as a preventive treatment and improve the current state of the skin or used as an early cure when skin problems starts to reveal. The treatment is non-invasive, no sensations of pain can be felt, and only minimal or negligible downtime is associated with it. A lot of cosmetic surgeon who are using this new treatment also find it best to couple a fractional laser treatment with Clear + Brilliant on other parts of the body right after the first procedure to ensure uniformity of treatment for the body.

How does Clear + Brilliant works?

The device works in the same principle with the rest of skin resurfacing and rejuvenating treatments and devices, but, with one major difference; laser diodes incorporated in the Clear + Brilliant unit emit a milder laser light and heat suitable for the milder skin conditions.

Clear and Brilliant laser skin resurfacing is simply, skin peeling aided by laser. The resurfacing process starts by delivering laser light and heat to the surface of the targeted skin area. This eventually destroys and removes the outermost layer of the damaged skin. As the process of healing starts, new deposits of collagen are produced, which is essentially suppler, elastic, healthy, and youthful looking. Since lines and wrinkles is directly related with the depletion of the collagen deposit on that area, the production of new collagen in those areas will mean, elimination of these signs of aging.

The process of laser skin rejuvenation on the other hand also involves delivering laser heat energy on the dermal layer of the skin. But instead of eliminating the entire outer layer of the targeted skin area, minor scattered damages are induced. Production of new collagen is still the end goal but the milder process will translate to a faster recovery period. The average Clear + Brilliant treatment would only last from 7 to 15 minutes.

Is Clear Brilliant laser treatment effective?

Though still on its introductory phase, Clear and Brilliant has already gained popularity and acceptance from most patients and practicing surgeons. It had successfully tapped into the need of young adults for a milder laser skin treatment but more effective than the common anti-aging and skin problem creams available on the market. The treatment is effective in eliminating lines, wrinkles, age spots, freckles, etc. and eventually reveals clear and brilliant skin characterized by improved skin tone and texture, smoother, fresher, and a healthier looking one.

Among the doctors who use Clear + Brilliant in making their patients satisfied and happy is Dr. Scott M. Gerrish. He wrote in a review that: “Patients loved what we were doing with the original Fraxel, but now we’re doing it better with Clear + Brilliant. Everyone wants to slow the appearance of aging. Nobody wants downtime or painful treatment – this is the perfect solution.”

Clear + Brilliant is also a great partner for all other laser based skin rejuvenation/resurfacing treatments like Fraxel, Thermage, etc  to target other body parts which require milder treatment and maintain a uniform skin tone and texture.

Who may undergo Clear Brilliant laser treatment?

Clear and Brilliant is ideal for patients searching for a milder alternative than the existing ablative and non-ablative laser-aided skin treatments. It is also a cost effective anti-aging treatment option still in comparison with other laser devices. Individuals who are generally frustrated on the efficacy of chemical peels and photo facial agents are suggested to take advantage of this new technology. Aside from aesthetic purposes, the device can also treat mild to medium-severe skin problems like Melasma, instances of scarring, freckles, lines, wrinkles, etc. But patients with pre-existing skin problems should initially consult a qualified doctor first.

Clear and Brilliant health risks and health hazards

Clear and Brilliant is non-invasive therefore it’s generally safe. The developers of the device noted that minor side-effects like skin redness may exhibit on certain patients but such occurrences will not hinder the patient from exercising his or her regular routine and schedule. Also, post treatment results will vary from one patient to another. Long term effects and complications are still yet to be studied.

How much does Clear Brilliant laser costs?

Currently, there are no price reviews yet for the treatment. A prospective patient usually will need to complete 3 to 6 sessions when it is intended to cure or correct a skin condition, for maintenance and regular skin rejuvenation, a monthly or quarterly session is enough. Costs would also be determined by the availability of the device in a certain state or locality and of the surgeon or technician capable of administering the treatment.

At Forever Young treatments cost between $300 and $400; depending on the packages booked.

All treatments are performed by Dr. A. David Rahimi and include topical/local anesthesia.

www.foreveryoung.net

Read more about Solta Medical:

http://www.solta.com/about.cfm

Bedbug Insecticides More Harmful Than the Pest

By: FRANCES CORREA, Skin & Allergy News Digital Network

Here are a series of articles on Acne and Acne scarring that I found particularly interesting.

We, at Foreveryoung, Inc., specialize on the treatment of Acne and Acne scarring:

Ablative skin resurfacing.

Chwalek J, Goldberg DJ.

Source

Skin Laser & Surgery Specialists of New York & New Jersey, USA.

Abstract

Ablative skin resurfacing has remained the gold standard for treating photodamage and acne scars since the development of the first CO(2) lasers. CO(2) and Er:YAG lasers emit infrared light, which targets water resulting in tissue contraction and collagen formation. The first ablative laser systems created significant thermal damage resulting in unacceptably high rates of scarring and prolonged healing. Newer devices, such as high-energy pulsed lasers and fractional ablative lasers, are capable of achieving significant improvements with fewer side effects and shorter recovery times. While ablative resurfacing has become safer, careful patient selection is still important to avoid post-treatment scarring, dyspigmentation, and infections. Clinicians utilizing ablative devices need to be aware of possible side effects in order to maximize results and patient satisfaction. This chapter reviews the background of ablative lasers including the types of ablative lasers, mechanism of action, indications for ablative resurfacing, and possible side effects.

Dermatol Surg. 2011 Aug 11. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02110.x. [Epub ahead of print]

Evaluation of the Effect of Fractional Laser with Radiofrequency and Fractionated Radiofrequency on the Improvement of Acne Scars.

Peterson JD, Palm MD, Kiripolsky MG, Guiha IC, Goldman MP.

Source

Dermatology Cosmetic Laser Associates of La Jolla, San Diego, California.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Options for acne scar reduction include peels, subcision, fillers, lasers, dermabrasion, and surgical excision, although not all are applicable in darker skin types. A novel device with a handpiece combining optical and radiofrequency (RF) energies along with a fractionated RF handpiece is available for nonablative resurfacing. OBJECTIVES Our primary objective was to evaluate the improvement in acne scars and skin texture. Secondary objectives were determination of patient satisfaction and comfort and evaluation of scar pigmentation improvement. Patients received five treatments at 30-day intervals. Post-treatment follow-up visits were performed 30 and 90 days after the last treatment. RESULTS A 72.3% decrease (p<.001) was observed on the acne scar scale from day 1 to 210. From day 30 to 210, investigator-rated changes in scarring, texture, and pigmentation improved 68.2% (p<.001), 66.7% (p<.001), and 13.3% (p=.05), respectively. Patient satisfaction scores showed no significant change over time, although patient-evaluated overall improved scores increased 60% over baseline (p=.02). CONCLUSION This technology may be a useful, nonablative resurfacing treatment for acne scarring. Scarring, texture, and pigmentation improved significantly according to investigator-rated assessment parameters. Although patient satisfaction scores did not improve, overall improvement scores did. The study was supported by Syneron.

© 2011 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2011 Aug;10(8):907-12.

Evaluation of clinical improvement in acne scars and active acne in patients treated with the 1540-nm non-ablative fractional laser.

Isarría MJ, Cornejo P, Muñoz E, Royo de la Torre J, Moraga JM.

Source

Instituto Médico Láser, Servicio de Dermatología, Madrid (Spain). mjisarria@hotmail.com

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Acne is a characteristic condition of puberty; however, adults who continue to have acne outbreaks frequently attend dermatology clinics. Two conditions-active acne and residual scarring-often co-occur in these patients. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the improvement in scarring and active acne after treatment with a 1540-nm erbium: glass fractional laser.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

The authors treated 20 patients with acne and scarring. Each patient received panfacial treatment in four sessions with a 1-month interval between sessions. Patients, the treating physician and a blinded observer evaluated the results in four areas: improvement in scars, improvement in pores, improvement in acne, and improvement in sebum secretion. Improvements were graded using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. The evaluation was made 12 weeks after treatment finished.

RESULTS:

Patients presented an improvement in both acne and scars. In 80 percent of cases, patients felt that the appearance of the scars had improved, and the improvement was classified as very much improved in 40 percent. In 85 percent of cases, patients felt that active acne had improved, and the improvement was classified as very much improved in 45 percent. Pore size was evaluated as improved by 75 percent of patients. Sebum secretion improved in 80 percent of cases.

CONCLUSION:

A 1540-nm non-ablative fractional laser provides effective treatment of acne scars. Patient satisfaction is high and active acne lesions improve significantly. Treatment of this mixed condition (scarring and active acne) with a single device is reliable, with a favorable safety profile and a high degree of patient acceptance.

Acne vulgaris in children and adolescents.

Schnopp C, Mempel M.

Source

Department of Dermatology Biederstein, Technical University, München, Germany - nina.schnopp@lrz.tu-muenchen.de.

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is a very common inflammatory skin disease originating from the pilosebaceous unit. Peak incidence is at puberty, but acne can affect all age groups. Prepubertal acne is rare, but important to recognize as diagnostic and therapeutic procedures differ from pubertal acne. Acne neonatorum is a mild, self-limiting disease, whereas acne infantum commonly presents with moderate to severe lesions and high risk of scarring thus requiring early intervention. Mid-childhood or prepubertal acne raises the suspicion of hyperandrogenemia, further investigations are indicated to rule out underlying disease. The same applies to any patient with very severe acne, acne not responding to therapy or unusual clinical presentation. Etiopathogenesis of acne is not yet fully understood. Familiy history is the most important risk factor to develop severe acne and scarring. The relevance of life style factors such as smoking or diet is controversial. Lately high carbohydrate diet and dairy products have been implicated as aggravating factors. Mild acne normally responds to topical monotherapy, in moderate disease combination of two synergistically acting substances (e.g. benzoyl peroxid plus antibiotic, benzoyl peroxid plus retinoid, retinoid plus antibiotic, benzoyl peroxid plus azelaic acid) will improve clinical response. Retinoids and/or benzoylperoxid have been shown to be effective in maintenance therapy. In patients with severe disease or high risk of scarring systemic therapy with antibiotics, oral contraceptives with antiandrogenic properties and in particularly isotretinoin as most effective acne treatment should be considered early to avoid physical and emotional scars.

Curr Probl Dermatol. 2011;42:40-7. Epub 2011 Aug 16.

Dermatol Surg. 2011 Jul;37(7):945-61. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02036.x. Epub 2011 Jun 17.

Treatment of acne scarring using a dual-spot-size ablative fractionated carbon dioxide laser: review of the literature.

Tierney EP.

Source

Department of Dermatology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, USA. etierney29@gmail.com

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Fractional photothermolysis has been reported in the literature to improve pigmentary and textural changes associated with acne scarring.

OBJECTIVE:

To review the literature for the treatment of acne scarring using nonablative fractional laser (NAFL) and ablative fractional laser (AFL) resurfacing.

METHODS:

Review of the Medline literature evaluating NAFL and AFL for acne scarring.

RESULTS:

NAFL and AFL are safe and effective treatments for acne scarring. It is likely that the controlled, limited dermal heating of fractional resurfacing initiates a cascade of events in which normalization of the collagenesis-collagenolysis cycle occurs. We present the results of a patient treated using a novel dual-spot-size AFL device. Three months after the final treatment, the patient reported 75% improvement in acne scarring and 63% overall improvement in photoaging.

CONCLUSIONS:

Fractionated resurfacing for the treatment of acne scarring is associated with lesser risks of side effects of prolonged erythema and risks of delayed-onset dyspigmentation and scarring which complicate traditional ablative laser resurfacing approaches. We present herein preliminary data suggesting that a dual-spot-size AFL device presents novel advantages of improving texture and pigmentation in acne scarring and photoaging.

© 2011 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc

Warning-graphic video

please visit us on facebook for this patient's before and after photos.

Follow the link on the right lower corner of the landing page.

Like us and become friends on FB for special promotions.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chSbcbqjiNc

Interesting article; worth reading.

http://www.webmd.com/healthy-beauty/features/skin-food

I also have noticed an uptick in medical complications resulting from Cosmetic Surgery performed in Mexico.

A. David Rahimi,MD,FAAD,FAACS.

http://cosmeticsurgerytimes.modernmedicine.com/cosmeticsurgerytimes/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=735909&sk=09e614b472c2102e76c9067d6a094ae1

FREE BOTOX

Yes; there is such a thing as a Free Lunch!

One day only-8/24^th 2011

Come and visit us and receive one are (up to 20 units) of Botox FREE

(This is a $240 value-No other obligations-New Patients Only)

www.foreveryoung.net

Please tell your friends about us!

Zonya Villatoro

Office manager 323 653-7700