After the holidays my skin was looking noticeably lacklaster and I needed something to boost some radiance into my complexion. I met with Dr. Rehab Sattof at the Beverly Hills Aesthetic & Medical Centre in Dubai who suggested a detailed skin analysis using the state-ofthe- art Visioface 1000D machine to ascertain which facial would be suitable for my skin type. Using cutting edge technology,
Dr. Sattof was able to see pore size, UV damage, lines as well as overall color composition from the images imposed by the machine to her computer. She then suggested the HydraFacial MD as a way to hydrate, rejuvenate and brighten my skin.
The technique involves a patented process called Vortex Fusion which means that each session uses multiple tips with abrasive edges to exfoliate the skin as well as ensure the solutions penetrate the skin effectively. The session began with cleansing and exfoliation followed by a mild glycolic acid peel. This was followed by an extraction using the vortex suction.
And for hydration, a cocktail of antioxidants and Hyaluronic Acid were Vortex-Fused into the skin to nourish and protect. And finally a face mask that included Vitamin C was applied for around 15 minutes and then rinsed off.
Results: My skin looked visibly brighter and more hydrated after just one session. The dark patches I had over my upper lip area had visibly lightened and overall, this three-in-one treatment is a musthave for glowing and visibly more luminous skin.
Where: Beverly Hills Aesthetic & Medical Centre, Al Wasl Road, Dubai. 04-349-5528/349-5538
Price: Ascertained in consultation
BOTOX the poison that heals
Botox is the brand name everyone knows, but the product itself is called Botulinum Toxin Type A. This is a purified neurotoxin, specifically produced by a bacterium known as clostridium botulinum.
Although Botulinum toxin is a lethal, naturally occurring substance, it can be used as an effective and powerful medication. Researchers discovered in the 1950s that injecting overactive muscles with minute quantities of Botulinum Toxin type-A would result in decreased muscle activity. This will effectively weaken the muscle for a period of three to four months. In cosmetic applications, a Botulinum toxin injection, consisting of a small dose of Botulinum toxin, can be used to prevent development of wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles. As of 2007, it is the most common cosmetic procedure, with 4.6 million procedures in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Although Botulinum toxin is best known for its beneficial role in facial aesthetics but recent literature has highlighted its usage in multiple non-cosmetic medical and surgical conditions. In the early 1980s, university-based ophthalmologists in the USA and Canada further refined the use of botulinum toxin as a therapeutic agent. Botulinum Written by Dr. Punam Bijlani, Consultant Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgeon at GMC Hospital, Ajman toxin is currently approved for the following conditions:
- Cervical dystonia (a neuromuscular disorder involving the head and neck)
- Blepharospasm (excessive blinking)
- Severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
- Strabismus (squints)
- Achalasia (failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter to relax)
- Local intradermal injection of BTX-A is helpful in chronic focal neuropathies. The analgesic effects are not dependent on changes in muscle tone.
- Migraine and other headache disorders, although the evidence is conflicting in this indication
- Bruxism is treated by injecting the toxin into the muscles of mastication, such as the masseter.
Novel uses for this unique substance will continue to permeate many medical and surgical specialties. Health insurers sometimes cover medical uses of Botox; a treatment for a clenched jaw might cost Dhs 5000 every three months, for example. But for cosmetic treatments, consumers must pay cash.
The success of any Botulinum toxin procedure begins with finding the right doctor to perform it. Each formulation of Botulinum toxin is unique with distinct dosing, efficacy and safety profiles for each use to which it is applied. For these injections, consult with an experienced, credentialed physician. Botulinum toxin delivered using more precise techniques may permit improved results without undesired consequences.
With ongoing research, the spectrum of clinical applications and number of people receiving Botox will no doubt increase. Botox truly is not just skin deep.
