Sunday, October 24, 2010

Solutions For Ingrown Hairs

One of the biggest drawbacks from shaving is ingrown hairs. Little, tiny bacterial infections just under the skin - create red, raised bumps wherever you shave. It happens to the guys - on their face - and it happens to the ladies too, on their bikini line mostly, and sometimes on their legs and other shave-able areas. And for some, it happens after waxing or threading - on the lip and eyebrow area.

It's a common problem, but it's not so easy to resolve in all cases. But we know for sure that laser hair removal (for bikini line, lip, back) is an effective way to remove hair and to avoid ingrown hairs in the areas you can treat with this method. And, for the areas you can't treat with laser hair removal (like women's and men's faces) there is a WONDERFUL over the counter product called Bump Patrol that we've tested - and it works fabulously!

At first glance, the product appears to only be for men - but don't be fooled. Anyone can use this snazzy stuff anywhere you happen to shave. The product works the same whether you're shaving your face or bikini line - and doesn't care whether you're a man or woman. And, used in conjunction with laser hair removal - our tester is now completely free of ingrown hairs.

With regard to treating areas with laser hair removal - keep in mind that you will need 4-6 treatments per area over the course of a few months. One treatment doesn't usually kill all the hair. You have to zap it as it grows out, in stages - typically 4-6 weeks apart between treatments. And, you can count on needing intermittent touch ups over the years to follow. The reason laser hair removal is best for people who are prone to ingrown hairs - is that the laser actually kills the hair follicle - instead of just ripping the hair out of it.

However - it's best to remember too that there are some darker skinned people who might not be a candidate for laser therapies. Make sure to check that the laser equipment is suitable for darker skin types, and if so - be prepared that the therapy might take a few extra sessions.

As always, Dr. Riehs will offer a complimentary consultation for laser hair removal, as we do with all our services and products - should you have any questions or concerns.

If you aren't prepared to do laser hair removal - try giving Bump Patrol a try. We tested and approve of this over-the-counter (and very well-priced!) product to help remove unsightly razor bumps.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

HOLIDAY EXPO IS COMING

It's that time of the year - the ANNUAL HOLIDAY EXPO is coming up soon. Mark your calendars for the season's most anticipated event- where you can save up to 50% on ALL our products and treatments.

It's an evening of great food, merry drinks, and holiday cheer! Plus, bring a friend who's new to our clinic - and receive a $50 GIFT CARD just for sharing your secret of Le Beau Visage.

There will be live demonstrations of treatments and products - as well as drawings for FREE TREATMENTS and a FREE Holiday goodie bag for all attendees!

Whether it's a special treat for you, or a chance to stock-up on stocking stuffers - it's THE Holiday opportunity you do not want to miss.

WHEN: Thursday, November 11th
TIME: 4pm - 8pm
WHERE: Le Beau Visage! Click here for directions and a map!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Eyes on Skin Care

There are tons of different kinds of skin care out there: you might use over the counter skin care brands, (drug store) or super high-end skincare products (department store), there are exclusive reseller products (i.e. - brands that aren't carried in stores, but sold by direct sales representatives) but we know what works best - and that's medical grade skin care products - these are only offered for resale by a physician. These would include brands like SkinMedica, SkinCeuticals, Elta MD, MD Forte and more.

You probably think you could save a lot of money by buying less expensive products - but that isn't really the case. If you're buying medical grade skincare, you are paying more when you purchase it. But it is typically so concentrated, and so effective - that you require very little every day at application and so the product lasts several months. In addition - it's the great results you get from medical grade products that help you see you're getting your money's worth. Give most new products 3-6 weeks to truly begin turning results or speak to Dr. Riehs for specifics on when you might see results.

This week we're spotlighting eye cream. The skin around your eyes is very delicate, and must be treated with care. Since most eye creams are formulated for specific ailments to the eye area, they are NOT typically the product of choice for wrinkle care, moisturizer/hydration and/or anti-aging. Eye creams, balms and gels are used in a skin care program that includes moisturizer, cleanser, and your anti-aging or restorative regimen.

There are four different types of eye creams:

General Eye Creams and Balms: These are typically used during the day, and are mostly used to restore a more refreshed look to the eye area, reduce 'puffiness' and to reduce the appearance of dark circles. These may come in a 'gel' form as well.

Post-Op Eye Creams/Gels: These are great for recovering from a procedure performed near the eye area, as well as dark circles that are caused by broken capillaries or lack of sleep.

Night Creams: Obviously used at night, night creams repair your skin and prevent damage while you are sleeping. Unlike other eye creams, balms and gels - night creams often do contain ingredients that will treat wrinkles and offer restorative or anti-aging benefits. They are typically too heavy to be used in conjunction with makeup and sunscreen - so they are recommended for use at night only for maximum benefit.

Contact us at Le Beau Visage Medical Spa today to learn more about which eye cream would be best for you - and which elements of medical grade skin care products you could be seeing the benefits from using.